Placenta-chip for new biomarker discovery and production technologies

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This project develops a microfluidic device that is used to cultivate Placental cells for production of proteins such as hyperglycosylated-hCG that are used as important biomarkers in diagnostic assays. Our partner, Evik Diagnostics, is interested in developing a reliable supply of human biomarkers for use in their diagnostics assays in the area of maternal health and cancer screening. These biomarkers are produced naturally in the placenta. Therefore, mimicking the in-vivo organisation of cells in the placenta can create the right culture conditions that will promote the growth of placental stem cells and production of the biomarker proteins. In this project, we will use our expertise in microfluidics and microbioreactor design to fabricate microfluidic scaffolds that allow seeding of various cell types that constitute the human placenta and determine conditions that will promote the growth of placental stem cells. We will also investigate the production of the biomarker proteins, especially hyperglycosylated-hCG, in these bioreactors and identify if this technology would be suitable for reliable supply for diagnostic applications. The outcomes of this project will be a significant benefit to our partner, Evik Diagnostics, in ensuring quality control of their products and maintaining a in-house reliable production of the proteins. This project will also develop interdisciplinary skills in the students and the interaction with industrial partner will be an excellent training for the students.