ISRO’s evolution from a satellite-launching agency to a multifaceted organization demonstrates its pivotal role in advancing both national development and global space exploration. Over the years, ISRO has expanded its reach to encompass a wide range of applications that impact everyday life, from disaster management and agriculture to urban planning and education. By leveraging its expertise in space technology, ISRO has not only enhanced India’s capabilities in space but also contributed significantly to societal progress and international collaboration. As ISRO continues to push the boundaries of space exploration and technological innovation, its diverse contributions underscore its commitment to harnessing space for the greater good of humanity.

Understanding ‘Organ on Chips’ (OoCs) and Their Potential in Revolutionizing the Pharmaceutical Sector

What are ‘Organ on Chips’ (OoCs)?

Definition:
– Microfluidic devices that mimic the structure and function of human organs.
– Contain channels lined with living cells from specific tissues.
– Designed to replicate the microenvironment of organs.

Components
– Microchannels: Simulate blood flow and nutrient transport.
– Living Cells: Derived from human tissues.
– Flexible Polymers: Form the chip’s structure, often transparent for easy observation.

Potential in the Pharmaceutical Sector

1. Drug Development:
Traditional Testing vs. OoCs:
– Traditional: Uses animal models and 2D cell cultures.
– OoCs: Provide more accurate human responses, reducing reliance on animal testing.

Benefits:
– Faster identification of potential drug candidates.
– More precise screening for efficacy and toxicity.
– Reduction in drug development costs and time.

2. Personalized Medicine:
Custom OoCs:
– Can be created using a patient’s own cells.
– Enable testing of drug responses tailored to individual genetic makeup.

Benefits:
– Improved treatment efficacy.
– Reduced adverse drug reactions.
– Enhanced patient-specific therapeutic strategies.

3.  Toxicology Testing:
Safety Assessment:
– Evaluate potential toxic effects of new compounds.

Benefits:
– More accurate prediction of human responses.
– Reduction in late-stage drug failures.
– Enhanced safety profiles for new drugs.