Biomaterials for on-chip organ systems

Biomaterials are natural or synthetic materials made up of multiple components that interact with biological systems. They have been mainly used for medical applications spanning research and development to augmentation or replacement of desired natural functions. Biomaterials have opened a new window in the field of in vitro biomedical research. Right from introducing biocompatible, inert, and mechanically robust materials to the components of microphysiological systems, biomaterials have been innovated for varied applications from supporting body functions to drug delivery and discovery. These innovations have led to the development of better diagnostic tools as well as safer and more biocompatible drugs and drug-delivery tools. In this chapter, we outline some important biomaterials and their applications in the development of microphysiological systems for emulating human tissues in vitro furthering our understanding of drug discovery and drug toxicity.