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Cell culture system

Novel 3D cell culture system

Fluidic device and system for a spatially controlled organoid growth

Intellectual Property and Innovation Management

Deniz Bayramoglu, Phone: +49 6151 16-57215

Robert Heitzmann, Phone: +49 6151 16-57228

E-Mail:

TU Darmstadt Department of Biology

Prof. Dr. Ulrike A. Nuber, Phone: +49 6151 16-24600

E-Mail:

Status quo

Organoids and other 3D cell aggregates generated with current culture systems / bioreactors are of insufficient spacial organization and of limited size.

This is because current systems

  • do not support a controlled development of primary organ axes
  • do not allow for a continuous supply of nutrients and removal of metabolites.

Our technology

We have developed a fluidic device and system that allows a spatially controlled development and growth of 3D cell aggregates (such as organoids). Organoids are fixated in a matrix, and up to four gradients of biomolecules (such as morphogens) influencing their development can be applied in a spatially defined manner.

Benefits

  • Spatial control of organoid development along anterior-posterior and dorsal-ventral axes in macroscale growth (mm-range)
  • Continuous supply of fresh medium and biomolecules
  • User-friendliness (autoclavable and reusable, microscopeable. Multiple devices can be run in parallel)

Current stage of development

Technology-Readiness-Level (TRL): Level 2-3

Protoypes of the fluidic system have been developed and tests are running.

Application possibilities

Organoid cell culture applications (iPSC-based 3D disease models, cancer organoids), other 3D cell culture applications (primary tissues) and concentration-dependent toxicology tests.

Commercialization opportunities

For the implementation of the technology, we are looking for interested companies who would like to extend their product portfolio or open up new business fields. There are various possibilities for cooperation between the industrial partner and TU Darmstadt: from an exchange with the know-how carriers of the technology up to a close cooperation in case of further development needs. The technology is protected by intellectual property rights and can be used by the industry partner after a sale or licensing agreement.