Female Anatomy on a Chip

Organs-on-a-chip are designed to model the activities, mechanics and physiologic responses of various human processes. Previous work in this field has successfully created microchips that mimic the architecture and functions of the lungs, intestines, skin, kidneys and bone marrow, providing a platform for accelerating drug development as well as advancing personalized medicine. Recently, researchers announced the development of a chip that models the mechanisms of the female menstrual cycle, including the complex and delicate hormonal signaling that can’t be duplicated in a petri dish.

The three-dimensional chip consists of a network of tiny, interconnected cubes grown from human and mouse reproductive cells, including the endometrium, fallopian tubes, and cervix. Tubes, valves and pumps move air and water through the system to simulate the body’s natural circulation. Chemical communication is stimulated by injecting a pituitary hormone, which causes the cells to respond by secreting estrogen and progesterone at levels typically found during ovulation and menstruation. In addition, the researchers are able to replicate what happens to hormone levels shortly after conception.

Although the system does not provide a complete model of the reproductive system, it could yield insights into some of the causes of recurrent miscarriages. It will also be used to study new birth control methods and to develop individualized treatments for a variety of female reproductive conditions.