Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 23, 2026
14:48
Generation of Dynamical Environmental Conditions using a High-Throughput Microfluidic Device
Published on: April 17, 2021
A Machine Vision-Guided Microphysiological Platform With Automated Microfluidics Enables Longitudinal Biomarker
Jibbe Keulen1,2,3,4, Yi Zhong3,5, Laura Dangel3
1Dr. Margarete Fischer-Bosch Institute of Clinical Pharmacology, Stuttgart, Germany.
Advanced Science (Weinheim, Baden-Wurttemberg, Germany)
|June 22, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a novel automated microphysiological system (MPS) for advanced drug development. The platform accurately predicts drug toxicity by simulating dynamic exposure, improving preclinical model reliability.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Toxicology
- Drug Development
Background:
- Preclinical models have limited predictive power in drug development.
- Existing microphysiological systems (MPS) lack long-term sampling and dynamic exposure simulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a machine vision-guided MPS with real-time fluidic control for automated sampling and dynamic dosing.
- To improve the simulation of nutritional and pharmacological exposure scenarios in vitro.
- To enhance the predictive accuracy of preclinical drug testing.
Main Methods:
- Established a machine vision-guided MPS with real-time fluidic control.
- Enabled automated periodic sampling, media replenishment, and programmable dosing.
- Simulated dynamic insulin profiles and repeated-dose pharmacokinetics over weeks.
- Exposed 3D primary human liver spheroids to acetaminophen with pharmacokinetically accurate profiles.
Main Results:
- The system successfully emulated physiological insulin profiles and pharmacokinetic exposures.
- Acetaminophen overdose simulation induced liver toxicity, unlike constant exposure.
- Toxicity correlated with disrupted lipid homeostasis, loss of tight junctions, and ECM remodeling.
- Targeted proteomics and Cell Painting elucidated mechanisms of hepatotoxicity.
Conclusions:
- The automated MPS platform offers robustness and versatility for mechanistic toxicology.
- Simulating dynamic drug exposure is crucial for accurate preclinical toxicity assessment.
- This technology advances in vitro modeling for more reliable drug development.
