PHOENIX: Precision Human Organs-on-chip for Enhanced Neuro-muscular and Cardiac Studies

PHOENIX aims to revolutionise biomedical research by developing the next generation human-based Organs-on-chips (OoC).

OoC is a promising technology potentially able to outperform conventional preclinical models in providing patho-physiologically relevant setting for investigating human diseases, thus tackling the limited translational value of animal testing.

OoC wide adoption is currently hampered by poor maturation of cellular models and shortage of non-destructive readout methods.

PHOENIX will take current OoC platforms to the next level, overcoming such limitations by integration of core technologies already validated by the Consortium, namely Electric Recording (3dMEA), Force Sensing (3dFORCE) and Mechanical Stimulation (3dMECH).Two platforms will be developed: i) μHeart, to model functional cardiac tissues, and ii) μNMC to model neuro-muscular circuits.

PHOENIX ecosystem will be completed by satellite products and qualified against specific contexts of use in clinically and industrially relevant environments.

PHOENIX potential will be showcased with two genetic pathologies as demonstrators: LMNA-cardiomyopathies and Freidreich’s Ataxia, conditions in which electrical instability and mechanical impairment play important roles.

For each platform, two versions will be released (Base and Pro), addressing the need of identified customer segments (research labs and Pharma/Biotech).In line with the 3Rs, PHOENIX platforms represent the ideal clinically relevant tools to test drugs and gene therapies, leading to faster/safer development processes, reducing the need for animal testing.

Robust dissemination, exploitation and communication activities will address both key stakeholders (OoC players, end-users, end-beneficiaries and regulatory bodies) and society at large, fostering acceptance, adoption, economic viability and regulatory compliance.PHOENIX will last 4-years with a Consortium comprising 9 partners (Academic, SMEs and LEs) from 4 EU Countries.