Expérimental
Microfluidics and microfabrication have recently undergone an explosive development in biology. They allow to position, address and study cells with an unprecedented accuracy and resolution. A particular promising application is the development of “Organs-On-Chip” (OOC), reproducing the structure, physiology and functions of tissues and organs. This has enormous potential for research and for drug and toxicity testing, as an intermediate between conventional in vitro culture and animal models, but also as a way to avoid problems in translation from animals to humans in drug development, thanks to the use of OOC based on human cells. We have developed in our team a new technology, “textile microfluidics”. In short, it amounts to combine textile and microfluidic technologies to prepare microfluidic systems involving a textile-based support, which brings to the system its architecture, mechanical stability and resistance while preserving the flexibility required by many organs. This interdisciplinary project will be developed in the team “Macromolecules and Microsystems in Biology and Medicine” with strong interaction with ENSAIT in Roubaix, the National Superior Engineering school and research center of Textile technologies, fully dedicated to the development and teaching of textile technologies at the highest level. The project, mostly experimental, will require knowledge in biomaterials and cell culture, curiosity for new fields and ability to work in team.