The development of advanced 3D tissue models that replicate human physiology is a rapidly evolving field with profound implications for translational medicine. However, a key limitation in current in vitro systems is the lack of functional vascularization, which restricts tissue viability, complexity and clinical relevance. The proposed initiative, NORDVASC3D (Nordic Research Network on Vascularized 3D Organ-on-Chip Systems), brings together leading Nordic researchers and infrastructures to address this gap by integrating vascularized tissue engineering with organ-on-chip technologies.
By combining interdisciplinary expertise in microfluidics, stem cell biology and biomaterials, NORDVASC3D aims to engineer dynamic, perfusable 3D microenvironments that mimic key physiological and pathological processes. These platforms will allow for more predictive disease modeling, including cancer, neurodegenerative, cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, while enabling human-relevant drug screening and mechanistic studies with minimal reliance on animal models.
The initiative will leverage the unique strengths of the Nordic region, including strong traditions in collaborative biomedical research, harmonized ethical frameworks and cutting-edge national infrastructures for cell and tissue engineering. Moreover, it will foster cross-border knowledge exchange, open data practices and sustainable innovation.
Through coordinated research, joint training activities and summer school, NORDVASC3D will establish a Nordic research innovation hub for functional vascularized organ-on-chip systems. This will strengthen the region’s contribution to European priorities, such as reducing animal experimentation and enhancing the human relevance of biomedical research. Ultimately, this network will advance the development of next-generation translational tools for diagnostics, therapeutics and personalized medicine.