Innovative Cancer-on-a-Chip Technology Paves the Way for Better Treatment Insights
Eindhoven, Saturday, 3 May 2025.
Mohammad Jouybar’s cancer-on-a-chip device models specific organs, offering ethical advancements over animal testing, crucially studying cancer progression and aiding in developing personalized medicine solutions.
Revolutionary Approach to Cancer Research
At the Eindhoven University of Technology, biomedical engineer Mohammad Jouybar has developed a groundbreaking cancer-on-a-chip technology that represents a significant advancement in cancer research methodology. This innovative approach provides a more ethical and cost-effective alternative to traditional animal testing [1]. The technology, which has been evolving over the past fifteen years, enables researchers to create detailed models of specific organs and cancer types, offering unprecedented insights into cancer behavior [1].
Technical Innovation and Implementation
The research team has focused particularly on breast cancer, specifically ductal carcinoma in situ, employing sophisticated techniques including femtosecond laser technology and 3D sugar printing to construct precise blood vessel geometries [1]. This advanced modeling system incorporates multiple components, including breast ducts, surrounding tissue, and blood vessels, creating a comprehensive environment for studying cancer progression [1]. The technology’s versatility allows researchers to build specialized models for different cancer types, supporting the growing field of personalized medicine [1].
Industry Impact and Future Prospects
The timing of this innovation aligns with significant industry developments, as the FDA moves toward phasing out animal testing in favor of human-based science approaches [4]. The National Institutes of Health has recently announced, as of May 2, 2025, its commitment to prioritizing human-based research technologies [4]. This shift in regulatory approach positions cancer-on-a-chip technology at the forefront of a new era in drug discovery and testing methodologies [4].