Advances and applications of organ-on-a-chip technology

Advancements of the organ-on-a-chip (OOC) technology have been at the forefront of multidisciplinary convergence, blending biology, engineering, and microfabrication. OOC systems recreate human organ functionalities on microfluidic devices and offer more accurate alternatives to traditional testing methods. In this review, we discuss the various fabrication methods such as microfluidics, bioprinting, and injection molding, which are vital for the development of this technology. We further highlight the capability of OOC devices to accurately simulate human organ conditions and their applications in disease modeling, drug testing, and personalized medicine. The integration of OOCs in biological research, including as biosensors for real-time monitoring and in disease modeling, and the use of OOC systems in space research, particularly for studying the effects of microgravity and radiation on human health aboard the International Space Station, are also discussed. This technology shows immense promise for transforming approaches in drug discovery, toxicology, and personalized medicine.