Organ Model: Cervix
Application: Model Development, Microbiome
Highlights
The authors describe a protocol for engineering and studying a highly functional in vitro model of the human cervix that is composed of a commercially available, dual-channel, microfluidic, organ-on-a-chip (Organ Chip) device lined by primary cervical epithelial (CE) cells interfaced across a porous membrane with cervical stromal cells. The provision of dynamic and customized media flow through both the epithelial and stromal compartments results in cell growth and differentiation, including the accumulation of a thick mucus layer overlying the epithelium. The resulting model closely mimics the structure, epithelial barrier, mucus composition and structure, and biochemical properties of the in vivo human cervix, as well as its responsiveness to female hormones, pH, and microbiome. This Cervix Chip protocol also includes noninvasive techniques for longitudinal monitoring of the live 3D tissue model. The Cervix Chip offers a powerful preclinical platform for replicating in vivo cervical physiology, studying disease mechanisms, and facilitating the development of new therapeutics and diagnostics.
