Biotechnology company Obatala Sciences has achieved a significant milestone with the commercial launch of its ObaCell® Obesity-on-a-Chip Service.
This innovative service, which reflects the development of licensed patents from Harvard University, introduces a groundbreaking model for studying human adipose tissue and understanding metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes.
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Revolutionising Tissue Models with Microphysiological Systems
Obatala Sciences is at the forefront of companies commercialising microphysiological systems (MPS), representing advanced models of human tissues and organs. These systems offer a more accurate representation of human biology compared to traditional therapeutic development approaches. The ObaCell® Obesity-on-a-Chip Service is particularly groundbreaking, enabling a holistic understanding of human adipose tissue, a vital organ in metabolic diseases.
The new service addresses size limitations for culturing mature adipocytes in a dish, allowing researchers to simulate fasting and feeding in a human model system. This capability enables the reproduction of the physiology of obese patients in a laboratory setting, providing researchers with unprecedented insights. The technology also overcomes challenges in studying mature adipocytes, offering a more comprehensive and accurate model for preclinical research.
Impact on Drug Development and Regulatory Environment
Obatala Sciences’ President and CEO, Dr. Trivia Frazier, emphasises the significance of the Obesity-on-a-Chip Service in the context of rising rates of obesity and diabetes. The microphysiological system is expected to contribute to shortened timelines and improved treatments during the drug development phase.
With the recent passage of the Food and Drug Administration Modernization Act 2.0, the company is well-positioned to support drug companies in using data from microphysiological systems for Investigational New Drug filings.
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Academic and Regulatory Acknowledgment
Harvard University’s Disease Biophysics Group, led by Professor Kit Parker, played a pivotal role in developing the licensed technology. Alan Gordon, Director of Business Development at Harvard’s Office of Technology Development, commends Obatala Sciences for reaching this commercial milestone, stating that the technology provides a more accurate model of human tissue compared to traditional approaches.
Obatala Sciences, founded in 2017 with a focus on obesity, diabetes, and regenerative medicine research, is dedicated to creating accurate models of human tissue. The ObaCell® Obesity-on-a-Chip Service marks a significant step in advancing the understanding of metabolic diseases and promoting the development of effective therapies.