Resources

To develop human-based Organ-on-Chip platforms that provide more accurate drug-response data than traditional animal models. PHOENIX focuses on cardiac (µHeart) and neuromuscular (µNMC) systems, integrating mechanical stimulation, electrophysiology, and force sensing to create predictive human-relevant models.

PHOENIX-SE focuses on Safety Evaluation scaling, using low-cost screen-printed electronics to make these technologies accessible for mass industrial screening. Led by TECSR, it aims to bring the benefits of human-based platforms to the Southeast Europe region and make high-throughput toxicology screening economically viable.

These are the two genetic diseases used as clinical demonstrators to prove our platforms' predictive power:

LMNA-CMP (Laminopathy-related Cardiomyopathies): A group of genetic heart diseases leading to arrhythmias and heart failure. Tested on µHeart platform by Humanitas (ICH).

FRDA (Friedreich's Ataxia): A rare genetic disease causing progressive nervous system damage and muscle weakness. Tested on µNMC platform by Biointaxis/CNR.

By providing human-relevant data early in the drug development phase, we can bypass many unnecessary animal trials. PHOENIX platforms integrate electrical, mechanical, and force measurements that are difficult to replicate in animal models, offering more predictive insights. The project has the potential to contribute to a meaningful reduction in animal use for cardiac safety testing, supporting the EU's commitment to reducing animal experimentation through alternative methods (3Rs principle: Replace, Reduce, Refine).