The Application of Organs-on-a-Chip in Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research

The current development of microfluidics-based microphysiological systems (MPSs) will rapidly lead to a paradigm shift from traditional static 2-dimensional cell cultivation towards organized tissue culture within a dynamic cellular milieu. Especially organs-on-a-chip (OoCs) can very precisely re-create the mechanical and unique anatomical structures of the oral environment. This review provides an introduction to such technology, from commonly used chip materials and fabrication methods to the application of OoC in in vitro culture. OoCs are advantageous because of their small-scaled culture environment, the highly controlled dynamic experimental conditions, and the likeness to the in vivo structure. We specifically focus on current chip designs in dental, oral, and craniofacial (DOC) research. Also, future perspectives are discussed, like model standardization and the development of integrated platforms with advanced read-out functionality. By doing so, it will be possible for OoCs to serve as an alternative for animal testing and to develop highly predictive human models for clinical experiments and even personalized medicine.

Automated summary

The development of microfluidics-based microphysiological systems (MPSs) is leading to a shift from traditional static cell cultivation to dynamic tissue culture. Organs-on-a-chip (OoCs) can accurately replicate the mechanical and anatomical structures of the oral environment. This review discusses chip materials, fabrication methods, and the application of OoCs in in vitro culture, with a focus on dental, oral, and craniofacial (DOC) research. It also explores future perspectives such as model standardization and integrated platforms with advanced read-out functionality, highlighting the potential of OoCs as alternatives to animal testing and for developing predictive human models.