The idea for the MIMETAS-AIMMS challenge was ignited at the AIMMS 2023 Festival, where participants had a deep brainstorming session around finding alternatives for animal testing. Mimetas, a pioneering company in organ-on-a-chip, then put forward an exciting challenge for AIMMS researchers to submit a proposal on how to use their innovative technology.
The contest was kicked off with a seminar from one of AIMMS’ experts in human cell models research, Anja Wilmes, who showed examples on the application of human cell systems in New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) and one expert from MIMETAS , Dr. Dorota Kurek, who showed the endless possibilities that can be achieved with MIMETAS’ technology.
AIMMS researchers that participated had the chance to win three of MIMETAS’ microfluidic 3D culture plates, known as the OrganoPlate, one month access to the MIMETAS’ e-Learning module, and the opportunity to partner with MIMETAS to forward research in a potential public-private collaboration. Furthermore, all challenge participants got a deep discount on MIMETAS ’culture systems.
Out of all proposals, the MolTox team’s idea received the highest scoring from the expert panel. The team, consisting of two PhD candidates and a research technician, will use their human cell models in the MIMETAS OrganoPlate to investigate if they can improve the maturation status and transport capacity of the cells.
This successful contest is a great example of what can happen when an innovative company and an academic accelerator unite their potential! When excellent academic scientists get a complete free pass to propose how they would use such an advanced technology you get: big ideas & opportunities.