Apparatus for Reconfiguration of Components in a Micro-Physiological System

The invention is a novel apparatus utilizing modular assembly for the development of co-culture, monitoring, and study of functional interactions between different types of biological material under various environmental conditions. The buckle clamp stage-like apparatus mimics a microfluidic based system.

Background:
3D in vitro models are important for studying the functional interactions of the human microbial ecosystems on human tissue. This requires a device that has various components and flexibility to accommodate specific operating conditions and experimentation. In vitro microphysiological systems generally require multiple chambers of cellular culture and a nutrients perfusion chamber. This technology aims to provide alternative to the current microphysiological systems.

Applications:

• Laboratories
• Biotechnology companies
• Drug research

Advantages:

• Quick disassembly time
• Requires less time to train
• Reduces risk for contamination when accessing internal cellular components via modular assembly
• Improves accuracy and quality of data collected

Status: issued U.S. patent #11,261,414