# MPS Resources Section

> **NIH NIH U2C** · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · 2024 · $857,450

## Abstract

Abstract (Resource Core): The goal of the TRaCe-bMPS Center is to take five validated microphysiological
systems (bMPS) built on the µSiM (microphysiological system featuring a Silicon Membrane) tissue chip
platform through the process of qualification as FDA-approved Drug Discovery Tools (DDTs). Accomplishing
this goal will require consistent access to well-characterized cells, biomolecules, and device components;
curated standard operating procedures (SOPs) and protocols that can be shared between researchers
replicating data; and methods for scaling manufacturing of the DDTs undergoing qualification. To address
these needs, we propose to establish a Resource Core that will work in close collaboration with the
Qualification Program and Administrative Core to ensure that quality control measures are consistently
implemented, SOPs and protocols are developed and finalized, and manufacturing scaleup is addressed. The
Resource core will also lead development of new device versions compatible with automated laboratory
instrumentation and will support outreach and resource sharing with academia and industry to facilitate Center
sustainability. Four Aims will be completed: Aim 1: Serve as a source of well-characterized cells,
biomolecules, other reagents, and structural components used in TRaCe-bMPS devices and assays. Aim 2:
Develop a central repository of designs, protocols, and SOPs for TrACe-bMPS devices and assays, and
provide cross-consortium training. Aim 3: Scale DDTs to independently addressable parallel formats (1 x 4
strip format) for medium-throughput analyses compatible with industry-standard liquid handling and including
photonic sensing of secreted proteins, and develop methods for manufacturing scaleup. Aim 4: Establish
industrial and academic partnerships to strengthen the TRaCe-bMPS consortium and support resource
sharing. This will include support, including access to materials, for researchers outside the Center to use
µSiM-bMPS technology in their own research.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10814021
- **Project number:** 1U2CAG088071-01
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER
- **Principal Investigator:** James L McGrath
- **Activity code:** U2C (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $857,450
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-01-15 → 2028-12-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10814021

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10814021, MPS Resources Section (1U2CAG088071-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-27 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10814021. Licensed CC0.

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