Researchers at Oregon Health and Science University (OHSU) have received $3.5 million in funding to study how oral cancer interacts with bone using a new “tumor-bone interface on a chip.”
The research team aims to better understand oral squamous cell carcinoma by building a chip-based model that mimics key elements of bone, including the mineral matrix, osteoblasts, osteoclasts, and blood vessels.
Building on earlier work that developed 3D-printed blood vessels and organ-on-a-chip technologies, this new model will use human cells to simulate conditions in the human body. It aligns with U.S. Food and Drug Administration efforts to prioritize human-based in vitro systems over traditional animal models.
The researchers hope this approach will offer a more accurate tool for studying oral cancer and ultimately help accelerate the development and approval of new treatments. The project is being funded by the U.S. National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research.
