Why it matters: The development of a 3D-printed chip that mimics human organ systems could potentially replace the need for animals in drug testing. Animal testing is often viewed as cruel and inhumane, and this new invention has the potential to reduce the number of animals used in experiments.
What they are saying: The chip, known as a “body-on-chip,” uses positron emission tomography (PET scanning) to replicate the movement of drugs in the human body. It allows researchers to see where a drug goes in the body and how long it stays there without actually having to use humans or animals for testing. The device has been designed specifically for measuring drug distribution.
The big picture: Animal testing is a controversial issue, and the use of animals in drug testing has raised ethical concerns. This new invention could potentially revolutionize the field of drug testing by providing an alternative method that is more humane and does not involve the use of animals. It has the potential to significantly reduce the number of animals used in experiments, particularly in the early stages of drug development.
What to watch: The researchers have received funding to continue testing the device using sterile materials. It is not clear when the device may be distributed or when the use of animals in experiments may start to decrease. More research and testing will be needed before the device becomes widely available.
My take: This is a promising development in the field of drug testing. The use of animals in experiments has long been a contentious issue, and finding alternatives is crucial. The 3D-printed chip could provide a more accurate and humane method for testing how drugs interact with the human body. It has the potential to save countless animals from unnecessary suffering. However, further research and validation are needed before the device can be adopted on a larger scale.
