Biologist and bioengineer Donald E. Ingber, the esteemed founding director of The Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering at Harvard University, is pioneering groundbreaking research in the field of organ-chip technology. At the age of 67, Ingber’s rigorous schedule begins at 5 a.m. and is filled with various responsibilities such as meetings, financial planning, and navigating unforeseen challenges, establishing him as not only a distinguished scientist but also a chief executive officer in his own right.
Previously featured in Discover, Ingber’s work on the “lung-on-a-chip” and “body-on-a-chip” showcases the remarkable potential of microfluidic devices lined with living cells that appropriately mimic human organs. These organ-chips offer a more effective and ethical alternative to animal models, permitting researchers to manipulate various variables and conduct drug testing with higher efficiency.
Ingber’s most recent undertaking, the “vagina-on-a-chip,” has attracted significant attention for its potential to address women’s health issues. This innovative microfluidic device accurately replicates the vaginal microbiome and holds promise for testing drug therapies for conditions such as bacterial vaginosis, which profoundly impact women’s health.
In a similar vein, Ingber has also engineered a chip to replicate the cervix, facilitating the study of conditions such as HIV, cervical cancer, and other viral infections. These chips enable researchers to create a controlled environment for isolating and studying individual parameters, providing invaluable insights that are challenging to obtain from traditional models.
Indeed, Ingber’s team has delved into a wide array of research areas, including investigating the effects of smoking using a cigarette-smoking robot and developing treatments for radiation injuries. These endeavours underscore the versatility and potential applications of organ-chip technology in addressing diverse health-related challenges.
The collaborative ethos of The Wyss Institute has been pivotal in propelling innovation. By convening researchers from various disciplines and institutions, the institute cultivates an environment conducive to exploring unconventional solutions to complex problems.
Ingber’s vision transcends research, with a strong emphasis on translating scientific discoveries into tangible applications. With a focus on intellectual property and business development, the institute actively supports researchers in transitioning their ideas from the laboratory to the marketplace, ensuring that innovations have the potential to benefit patients.
The long-awaited transition towards the use of organ-chips and human-relevant technologies for drug testing received a significant impetus with the recent passage of the FDA Modernization Act. This development signifies a critical stride towards reducing reliance on animal models and advancing biomedical research through more ethical and efficacious means.
Ingber’s work in organ-chip technology not only holds the promise of revolutionizing drug testing and research but also reflects a commitment to diminishing reliance on animal testing. With ongoing advancements and support from regulatory agencies, the future of organ-chip technology in biomedical research is undeniably bright.