Associate professor Massimo Mastrangeli is the embodiment of enthusiasm for scientific research. He specifically exudes passion for his own field, namely that of organs-on-chip. “What I would like people to know about this field of research? That it’s amazing!”, exclaims Massimo.
“An organ-on-chip is a (micro)chip that contains human tissues or cells. It allows the tissue to feel “at home”, because the chip replicates aspects that the cells need, like artificial blood vessels that provide the cells with nutrients and oxygen, and stimulation through electricity, for example. Organs-on-chip allow us to deepen our knowledge of the human physiology, and can improve the drug development process.”
These different aspects of organs-on-chip inspire Massimo to develop them even further. But he explains that he cannot do it alone. “It is motivating to have a group of brilliant students that helps me develop ideas and push this technology further.” Because as a researcher – Massimo points out – you position yourself at the edge of knowledge. “We live with uncertainty. I’m faced with many challenges, aspects and possible directions in my work. That’s why I need collaborations, and particularly outside microelectronics. It’s fantastic to have complementary expertise in biology and biochemistry, especially in this complex field of organ-on-chip research.”
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