Conventional biomedical research methods are restrained to 2D static cell cultures and animal testing, both of them falling short as preclinical models. In this context, there is a dire need for reliable biomimetic systems, able to minimize the mismatches of the traditional methods.

Cutting edge techniques from the field of microelectronics being applied in microfluidics technology and the development of lab-on-a-chip devices paved the way to Organs-on-chips (OOCs). These novel 3D microfluidic cell culture devices, lined with living cells, are considered the epitome of biomimetic systems, being able to faithfully recapitulate the physiology and function of a vital human organ unit.Currently, we are developing a purely in vitro and scaffold-free bone marrow-on-a-chip, intended for both the generation and sustainment of the hematopoietic niche, to serve as a study platform for the chronic autoimmune disease of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), in collaboration with BRFAA, Prof. D. Boumbas. In addition, novel biosensors are being added in OOC platforms for in-situ monitoring of biomarkers released from cells during their on-chip culturing. These integrated OOC platforms are intended for use in kidney-on-a-chip applications, for example, for drug-induced kidney injury.