Microfluidics in High-Throughput Drug Screening: Organ-on-a-Chip and C. elegans-Based Innovations

Abstract

The development of therapeutic interventions for diseases necessitates a crucial step known as drug screening, wherein potential substances with medicinal properties are rigorously evaluated. This process has undergone a transformative evolution, driven by the imperative need for more efficient, rapid, and high-throughput screening platforms. Among these, microfluidic systems have emerged as the epitome of efficiency, enabling the screening of drug candidates with unprecedented speed and minimal sample consumption. This review paper explores the cutting-edge landscape of microfluidic-based drug screening platforms, with a specific emphasis on two pioneering approaches: organ-on-a-chip and C. elegans-based chips. Organ-on-a-chip technology harnesses human-derived cells to recreate the physiological functions of human organs, offering an invaluable tool for assessing drug efficacy and toxicity. In parallel, C. elegans-based chips, boasting up to 60% genetic homology with humans and a remarkable affinity for microfluidic systems, have proven to be robust models for drug screening. Our comprehensive review endeavors to provide readers with a profound understanding of the fundamental principles, advantages, and challenges associated with these innovative drug screening platforms. We delve into the latest breakthroughs and practical applications in this burgeoning field, illuminating the pivotal role these platforms play in expediting drug discovery and development. Furthermore, we engage in a forward-looking discussion to delineate the future directions and untapped potential inherent in these transformative technologies. Through this review, we aim to contribute to the collective knowledge base in the realm of drug screening, providing valuable insights to researchers, clinicians, and stakeholders alike. We invite readers to embark on a journey into the realm of microfluidic-based drug screening platforms, fostering a deeper appreciation for their significance and promising avenues yet to be explored.

The future of cancer therapy: exploring the potential of patient-derived organoids in drug development

“…Researchers are developing advanced culture media that better support PDO viability by mimicking interactions with stromal cells and key signaling molecules ( Manduca et al, 2023 ). Additionally, microfluidic platforms are being explored for their potential in high-throughput drug screening, enabling efficient and cost-effective analysis of PDOs ( Geyer and Queiroz, 2021 ; Yoon et al, 2024 ).…”

Caenorhabditis elegans as a Convenient Animal Model for Microbiome Studies

“…Drugs can be tested using different concentrations for determining how they affect the organism while keeping nutrient levels constant [ 29 ]. An automated drug screening platform [ 30 ] and high-throughput microfluidics [ 31 ] have been used for drug discovery.…”