Human Trabecular Organ-on-a-Chip Models

Background:

Models of the trabecular meshwork have largely been 2D up until now, but research has shown that 2D models of the TM behave differently -- sometimes in complete opposition -- to 3D models. A 3D model better approximates the actual anatomy of the human tissue, permits more sophisticated experiments, and provides increased accuracy in data-gathering and therapy production to researchers. This trend applies to other models of the eye as well.

Technology Overview:

This technology is a 3D biomimetic hydrogel model of the trabecular meshwork (TM) of the eye, located on a microfluidics chip, intended to be used, for example, to study the relation between the mechanotransduction of the YAP/TAZ proteins and stiffening of the TM cells and extracellular matrix. Stiffening of the TM is associated with primary open angle glaucoma, the most common form of glaucoma. Figure 1 - Complete TM-on-a-chip setup Stage of Development: Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3 - Analytical and experimental critical function and/or characteristic proof of concept. Bioengineered Human Trabecular Meshwork for Biological Applications This technology is "a system for modeling the conventional outflow tract." Also provided is a method for using the system for screening by contacting the cells with a known or suspected medicament and measuring its effects on the system such as flow of a perfusate. Also provided is a method of making the system by fabricating the porous substrate as a micropatterned scaffold. Figure 2 - An artistic rendering of a bi-layered "artificial TM" 

Advantages:

These two technologies more accurately approximate human 3D tissue anatomy with focus on the cell-ECM interface, and will permit more sophisticated research, clinically relevant drug screening and therapeutic testing, increased accuracy in data-gathering and drug production.

Applications:

Organ on a chip market and pharmaceutical testing for the eye.

Intellectual Property Summary:

Patent application submitted, Provisional 63/059,965 filed 7/31/20 US 16/044,806 

Stage of Development:

Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6 - System/subsystem model or prototype demonstration in a relevant environment.

Licensing Status:

These technologies from SUNY Upstate Medical University and SUNY Polytechnic Institute respectively are available for licensing.

Licensing Potential:

Licensing, Commercial partner, Development partner