Human Retina-on-a-Chip: A Next-Generation Model for Age-Related Macular Degeneration

We are building a miniature human retina on a chip by integrating stem cell derived retinal organoids, retinal pigment epithelium, and a functional choriocapillaris to uncover how macular degeneration destroys vision and to test new treatments.

We are creating a “retina-on-a-chip” that recreates how key cell types in the human eye—photoreceptors, retinal pigment epithelium, and tiny blood vessels—work together to support vision. Using stem-cell–derived tissues and a microfluidic device, this platform will model early events that lead to age-related macular degeneration, including the buildup of harmful deposits and loss of retinal function. By allowing real-time observation and testing of potential treatments, this technology aims to accelerate safer and more effective therapies for blinding diseases.

Our retina-on-a-chip is the first platform to unite human stem cell-derived retinal organoids, retinal pigment epithelium, and a perfusable choriocapillaris in a single device. Unlike existing models that capture only one or two of these layers in isolation, our system allows researchers to observe how various AMD risk factors and disease triggers propagate damage across the entire outer retinal unit in living human tissue. This opens a direct path to testing new therapies in a fully human context.

Upon completion, our platform will provide the research community with the first fully human, integrated model of the outer retina that can be used to study AMD and screen potential therapies in a physiologically relevant context — with the potential to dramatically accelerate the pace of drug discovery for this blinding disease. For the millions of people living with AMD, this research brings us closer to treatments that target the root causes of vision loss rather than just its symptoms. More broadly, the modular design of our platform allows adaptation to other retinal diseases, which makes it a versatile and lasting tool for the vision research community.