Microphysiological models of human organs: A case study on microengineered lung-on-a-chip systems

Abstract The convergence of cell biology with microfabrication technology derived from the microelectronics industry has made it possible to engineer physiologically relevant and organ-specific microenvironments for growth, differentiation, and maintenance of living cells in vitro. Here, we present a concise review of recent advances in the development of microengineered cell culture models termed organs-on-chips designed to mimic structural, environmental, and functional complexity of living human organs and tissues. We introduce fundamental design principles for constructing these microphysiological model systems and discuss their capabilities to emulate functional units of various human organs. We then provide more focused and in-depth discussion on the demonstrated utility and potential of organ-on-a-chip technology using representative examples of lung-on-a-chip models. Finally, we examine future prospects and barriers to progress in biopharmaceutical applications of organs-on-chips.