OrChID-Bio: Organs-on-a-Chip with Integrated Detection of Bioluminescence; An Ethical Consideration of Organoid Technology

Organoids are emerging powerful technology systems that mimic the complexity of organs and provide an opportunity to accurately model human biology. Organ-on-chips (OoCs) are 3D microdevices that model the structure, functionality, and behavior of specific tissues or organs using human cells. OoCs serve as a branch under the organoid technology field but have an added device fabrication component of incorporating microfabricated fluidic channels and microelectronics. OoCs devices are currently used to replicate human organ functions in a controlled laboratory setting for drug testing and disease research. The goal of the Technical Capstone project is to contribute to the development of OoCs in a clinical setting by enhancing the accuracy of bioluminescent monitoring instrumentation in the microfluidic device. The STS research project will focus on the ethical consideration of organoid technology use, as the field is continuously changing and growing faster than regulations can manage. Working at the intersection of medicine and engineering, Organs-on-a-chip present an enormous advancement in the field of biomedical research and therapeutic design. As such, the technology of organoids and OoCs poses several ethical considerations. By carefully reviewing current policies and understanding the gaps in the regulation of this technology, a framework can be created to responsible and transparent development, addressing potential risks, and promoting the ethical use of these innovative advancements in healthcare and research.

School of Engineering and Applied Science

Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering

Technical Advisor: Sean Moore
STS Advisor: Richard Jacques

Technical Team Members: Stone Zhang, Hamza Ahmed