# Populating MPS database with data from multi-organ, human-on-a-chip microphysiological systems

> **NIH NIH R44** · HESPEROS, LLC · 2021 · $77,997

## Abstract

Project Summary/Abstract:
As stated in the Notice of Special Interest announcement, there is a need to populate the recently established
MPS database with existing data generated by organ-on-a-chip systems. Having a centralized, public
database with data from all available MPS systems will accelerate development and acceptance of the
technology ultimately bringing better therapies to patients faster while significantly reducing the need for animal
testing in drug discovery.
In this proposal, we will compile data collected and published using Hesperos’ Human-on-a-ChipⓇ
microphysiological system (MPS), including data collected as part of the parent grant, and populate the MPS
Database. Additionally, we will generate an internal structure that will facilitate compilation and submission of
future data to the database. This will be especially valuable data to include as Hesperos’ multi-organ platform
is among the worlds’ most advanced human-based in vitro platforms with several distinct innovations. First,
the system uses a patented, pumpless mechanism to recirculate a customizable, serum-free medium using
gravity to obtain bidirectional flow (while also having the capability for unidirectional flow when required).
Second, the system is highly flexible with standard systems containing up to 5-organ or barrier tissues
depending on the application of interest. This enables the ability to determine the efficacy and off-target toxic
effects of both single drug treatments and drug-drug combinations, all in the same system. Lastly, the platform
is equipped with bio-electromechanical devices that non-invasively monitor the functional changes to organs as
compounds are introduced, metabolized, and excreted. These devices measure both the electrical (MEA’s) and
mechanical (cantilevers to measure force) changes to organ-specific physiology for cardiac, skeletal muscle,
neuronal tissues, and other organs producing an evaluation of the real-time functional changes of organs in
response to treatment. Because our readouts focus on function that is analogous to clinical evaluations and not
changes in cell viability, real time clinical correlations can be established using our PKPD models. This
capability enables evaluation of both the acute and chronic effects of a therapeutic on the human body.
For this effort, Hesperos will first establish data format requirements and conversion procedures necessary to
produce the optimal data structure for the database. We will then convert existing, published data into the
determined format and upload the information to the MPS Database.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10435269
- **Project number:** 3R44TR001326-05S1
- **Recipient organization:** HESPEROS, LLC
- **Principal Investigator:** James J Hickman
- **Activity code:** R44 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $77,997
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2021-09-03 → 2022-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10435269

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10435269, Populating MPS database with data from multi-organ, human-on-a-chip microphysiological systems (3R44TR001326-05S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-27 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10435269. Licensed CC0.

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