| 초록 |
Current in vitro cell-based systems are far from a faithful reproduction of in vivo biological systems. Combination of microscale technology, microfluidics in particular, mathematical modeling, and biomaterials can contribute to developing an in vitro system that mimics the human body better. We explore this possibility to develop systems across various length scales, from nanometer length scale to whole-body scale. Herein we introduce the concept of combining microfluidics with mathematical modeling that allows us to test the effect of drugs in the human body. Termed as ‘human-on-a-chip’, this device has multiple chambers for different organs, which are connected by microfluidic channels mimicking blood circulation. Being a physical realization of a physiologically-based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model, this type of device can improve drug screening and development process significantly. |
