Federal Grant Award Summary

The University of Rochester received a $415,813 Project Grant from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research under the Oral Diseases and Disorders Research program (CFDA 93.121), awarded July 7, 2026, with completion targeted for July 6, 2028. This R21 project delivers a modular microphysiologic system (MPS) capable of static and perfused culture of three-dimensional organoids and tissues in array format, demonstrated through the development of innervated salivary gland tissue mimetics (ISGM). The system integrates microbubble array technology with ultra-thin microporous nanomembrane technology to culture salivary gland tissue on the apical side juxtaposed to neuronal tissue in a basal compartment, enabling study of how basal perfusion and innervation preserve acinar cell phenotype and functional response to neurotransmitter stimulation over extended culture periods exceeding 14 days.

This research product advances the field of tissue-chip technology by addressing a critical gap in microphysiologic system development: recapitulation of innervated organs. By incorporating autonomic nervous system components—which regulate organ function in vivo and are essential for salivary gland organogenesis, function, and regeneration—the MPS delivers an improved in vitro alternative to animal models for tissue and organ modeling and preclinical drug development. The engineered system uses a hydrogel-filled gap between the microbubble array and nanomembrane to provide a substrate for cell seeding and a three-dimensional matrix for neurite extension, while the nanomembrane's pore size prevents nerve cell transmigration, maintaining distinct tissue compartments.