Microphysiological Systems (MPS) are advanced human-relevant in vitro models designed to recapitulate the structure, function, and biological responses of human tissues and organs. By combining human cells, microengineering, and controlled microenvironments, MPS enable the study of physiological and pathological processes with a level of relevance that conventional 2D cell cultures or animal models often fail to achieve.
MPS can reproduce key aspects of human biology such as cell–cell interactions, mechanical forces, biochemical gradients, and dynamic perfusion, allowing researchers and industry stakeholders to observe functional responses in real time. These systems can model single organs (e.g. liver, lung, brain, skin) as well as multi-organ interactions, supporting more predictive assessments of drug safety, efficacy, and disease mechanisms.
Importantly, MPS are recognized as a cornerstone of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), contributing to the reduction, refinement, and replacement of animal testing, while improving translational relevance for human health.
The MPS industry has entered a phase of rapid acceleration, driven by scientific maturity, industrial adoption, and regulatory momentum:
The MPS industry sits at the crossroads of biomedical science, engineering, digital technologies, and regulatory transformation. Its success depends not only on technological excellence, but also on industrial standardization, data comparability, regulatory alignment, and coordinated dialogue between stakeholders.This is precisely where IAMPS plays a central role: fostering collaboration across the MPS ecosystem to accelerate industrial adoption and regulatory acceptance of microphysiological systems worldwide.
