A microfluidic-based platform with cultured three-dimensional tissues simulates major human physiological systems for rapid evaluation of individual drugs prior to clinical testing or for personalized medical applications. The platform integrates the circulatory and lymphatic systems in a physiologically correct manner. The physiological systems may be simulated in the platform by microfluidic tissue culture devices which accommodate various tissues and provide integrated microvascular and lymphatic systems. Biomimetic nanofiber meshes or microfiber structures may be used to provide the cells with a physiologically relevant substrate. Each device may have an on-board detection system utilizing optical fiber bundles for microarray multiplexing of biomarkers, label-free SERS measurement of drugs, and microendoscopic confocal imaging of cells and tissues.
Full Patent: Microfluidic-Based Cell-Culturing Platform