Engineering organoids-on-chips for drug testing and evaluation

Abstract

Organoids-on-chips is an emerging innovative integration of stem cell-derived organoids with advanced organ-on-chip technology, providing a novel platform for the in vitro construction of biomimetic micro-physiological systems. The synergistic merger transcends the limitations of traditional drug screening and safety assessment methodologies, such as 2D cell cultures and animal models. In this review, we examine the prevailing challenges and prerequisites of preclinical models utilized for drug screening and safety evaluations. We highlighted the salient features and merits of organoids-on-chip, elucidating their capability to authentically replicate human physiology, thereby addressing contemporary impediments. We comprehensively overviewed the recent endeavors where organoids-on-chips have been harnessed for drug screening and safety assessment and delved into potential opportunities and challenges for evolving sophisticated, near-physiological organoids-on-chips. Based on current achievements, we further discuss how to enhance the practicality of organoids-on-chips and accelerate the translation from preclinical to clinical stages in healthcare and industry by utilizing multidisciplinary convergent innovation.