Based on a robust response to the recently closed Request for Information, 3D Microphysiological Systems for Organs-On-Chips, the Center for the Advancement of Science in Space (CASIS) is issuing a “Grand Challenge Sponsored Program” seeking flight projects for the International Space Station U.S. National Laboratory.
This funding opportunity seeks to accelerate the development of human microphysiological systems, tissue-on-chip, organ-on-chip, and related technologies that address challenges in predictive toxicity assessment during the preclinical phase of drug development or in tissue engineering for regenerative medicine to benefit human disease research on Earth. One or two respondents will be selected to share an award of up to $1M in research grant sponsorship to support a flight project to the ISS National Lab.
The Grand Challenge Sponsored Program seeks to support in-vitro models and platform technologies for either fundamental discovery or translational research in microgravity where outcomes may be extrapolated to understanding whole organ response to drug exposure or disease onset and progression. Technology platforms of interest will enable space-based research in microphysiological systems or tissue engineering related to tissue-on-a-chip, organ-on-chip, or 3D organotypic tissue constructs that recapitulate the microarchitecture and functions of living organs using human cells. Responsive applicants should seek to use microphysiological systems in microgravity to create and/or interrogate 3D, in-vitro models for bone and cartilage, skeletal muscle, brain, gastrointestinal tract, lung, liver, microvasculature, skin, or other tissues.
The challenge will be open until 5pm EDT on October 16, 2015. For additional information about this funding opportunity, including instructions on submitting a proposal, please visit: http://www.iss-casis.org/Opportunities/Solicitations/ChallengeOrgansOnChipsResearch2015.aspx
