Microphysiological systems (MPS) are innovative, miniaturized in vitro models that replicate the structure and function of human organs. By recapitulating the smallest functional units of organs and exposing cells to a microenvironment that closely mimics human biology, these systems enable a more realistic investigation of complex human biological mechanisms and processes. This allows researchers to study (patho)physiological conditions and assess the effects of various stimuli – such as pathogens, therapeutics, chemicals, and environmental toxins – on human-relevant models. Importantly, these advanced in vitro methods are not only alternatives to traditional animal testing but also valuable complements. The enhanced ability to model human biology open entirely new avenues for answering basic research questions with human-relevant insights, advancing research in ways that animal models may not achieve.
The MPS technology encompasses various model types, most prominently organ-on-chip and organoid approaches. Organoids are 3D multicellular in vitro tissues that self-assemble through the differentiation of stem/progenitor cells, closely resembling human tissue structures. Organ-on-chip models combine cell biology, microfabrication, and tissue engineering to create miniaturized organ substructures within microfluidic devices. These models provide a controlled microenvironment and include blood vessel-like perfusion, allowing to recapitulate aspects of the organ’s dynamics, functionality and (patho)physiological response.
MPS Core Facility
Microphysiological Systems
MPS Core Facility at the 3R-Center Tübingen
The worldwide 1st Core Facility for Microphysiological Systems was established in 2024 with the help of the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Ministry of Science, Research and Arts at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering at the Faculty of Medicine at the Eberhard Karls University Tübingen.
Our mission is to provide low-threshold access to complex, human-relevant in vitro models to academic researchers.
Our central goal is to enable scientists to address their research question in an MPS without needing to invest in expensive infrastructure and specialized training. In addition to a comprehensive tailored infrastructure, users have access to professional support from trained personnel in the core facility. They will accompany and assist you closely from planning and execution to the evaluation of your study.
The Core Facility team supports users throughout the entire process: from initial consultations to training and assistance with the realization of experiments, all the way to providing the necessary infrastructure. Specifically, our support includes the following:
1. Consultation
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- Early-phase evaluation of new studies to assess potential
options for replacement or reduction of animal studies - Assistance with study conceptualization and development of work plans for research proposals
- Early-phase evaluation of new studies to assess potential
2. Training sessions and ongoing support during experiments
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- Tailored guidance and professional support in experimental design and selection from a broad range of state-of-the-art Organ-on-Chip platforms
- Foundational scientific knowledge and skill-building training sessions as preparation for laboratory work with MPS
- Expert advice and counselling during realization of experiments and data evaluation
3. Access to Technology Platform
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- Access to cell culture laboratories as well as dedicated MPS laboratories (BSL-1)
- A wide range of specialized infrastructure for MPS experimentation
- One-on-One and Hands-on support by core facility staff
Featured Models
Based on established and commercially available systems, we offer a variety of models, including:
- Lung-on-Chip
- Gut-on-Chip
- Vasculature-on-Chip
- Kidney-on-Chip
- Liver-on-Chip
- Heart-on-Chip
- Adipose tissue-on-Chip
Additional models upon request.
Potential Applications
Possible research questions include:
- Mechanistic biomedical Research
- Personalized Medicine
- Disease Modelling
- Testing of therapeutic approaches
- Drug Delivery Monitoring
- Toxicological Research
Pilot projects
We are pleased to offer our services free of charge for the initial three pilot studies, with expert support available throughout your project at our core facility. This includes comprehensive consultation, training, experiment execution, and data evaluation. Our pilot projects include studies on the kidney, intestine, and adipose tissue.
Are you interested in utilizing the services of the Core Facility at the 3R-Center in Tübingen?
Are you interested in implementing MPS for your research, increasing human-relevance, and reducing animal experimentation? We are happy to offer you tailored, targeted and confidential consultation. Submit your inquiry via the following contact form and we will get back to you promptly.
We look forward to receiving your inquiry!
Do you have questions about the available models, potential application fields, or the use of the Core Facility?
Prof. Dr. Peter Loskill
