Microfluidic mimicry - Vagina on Chip (VOC)
Lead Research Organisation:
Brunel University London
Department Name: Electronic and Computer Engineering
Abstract
The aim of this project is to develop a new microfluidic device in which a 3D vaginal epithelial layer can be developed with in vivo functionality. This will be done using established micro-engineering and 3D printing techniques developed at Brunel. Cell and tissue functionality will be assessed using specific assays. The greater aim of this project is to develop a new tool for scientists, a vagina-on-a-chip which can be used for the development of new to understand enigmatic conditions such as bacterial vaginosis (BV).
The main aims of this project are:
To develop an automated Vagina-on-a-Chip device.
To create functional, physiological vaginal micro tissues within the device.
The main aims of this project are:
To develop an automated Vagina-on-a-Chip device.
To create functional, physiological vaginal micro tissues within the device.
Organisations
Studentship Projects
| Project Reference | Relationship | Related To | Start | End | Student Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP/N509437/1 | 01/10/2016 | 30/09/2021 | |||
| 1818626 | Studentship | EP/N509437/1 | 01/10/2016 | 31/07/2020 | Angel Naveenathayalan |
| EP/R512990/1 | 01/10/2018 | 30/09/2023 | |||
| 1818626 | Studentship | EP/R512990/1 | 01/10/2016 | 31/07/2020 | Angel Naveenathayalan |
| Description | Currently, experiments are in progress and findings established from these experiments will eventually go towards posters and talks at conferences as well as papers for publications. Initial experiments conducted, the literature review on microfluidics, electrospinning, 3Dprinitng, cell culture and mould fabrication techniques have been presented at conferences. However, the main findings, aims and objectives are still in working progress. Multidisciplinary research has continued to progress and now all the separate components are being combined to make the 3D microfluidic research tool Vagina -on-a-chip (VOC). |
| First Year Of Impact | 2020 |
| Sector | Education,Healthcare |
| Impact Types | Societal |
| Description | Late Night Science Museum - Organ on a chip shop |
| Form Of Engagement Activity | Participation in an activity, workshop or similar |
| Part Of Official Scheme? | No |
| Geographic Reach | National |
| Primary Audience | Public/other audiences |
| Results and Impact | The organ- on a chip workshop was organised by OOAC network group, the workshop was designed to invite customers into the shop and whilst they make their own Organ on a chip keyring that they can take away with them, we the volunteers would explain and educate the public with information regarding Organ on-chip research. This gave us the opportunity to talk with the public and answer a question related to this research. |
| Year(s) Of Engagement Activity | 2020 |