HSE Researchers Present Organ-on-a-Chip Models for Studying Preeclampsia and Inflammatory Bowel Disease at the III International Forum of Genomic and Biomedical Technologies
On December 4, 2025, Evgeny Knyazev, Head of the Molecular Physiology Laboratory at HSE University, delivered a presentation titled "Modeling Preeclampsia and Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Using Placenta-on-a-Chip and Intestine-on-a-Chip Models" at the III International Forum of Genomic and Biomedical Technologies "From Birth to Active Longevity" in Surgut.
Microfluidic Technologies in Complex Pathology Research
Within the session "Microfluidic Modeling in Biomedicine: Fundamental and Applied Aspects," Evgeniy Knyazev discussed advanced laboratory developments in creating integrated organ-on-chip systems. The presentation demonstrated how miniature microfluidic devices can reproduce key functions of the placenta and intestine, opening new avenues for studying the pathogenesis of preeclampsia and inflammatory bowel disease.
"Preeclampsia and inflammatory bowel diseases have complex multifactorial nature, and traditional models do not always allow comprehensive study of their development under conditions approximating the human body," noted Evgeniy Knyazev. "Organs-on-a-chip solve this problem by enabling modeling of interactions between different cell types, reproducing mechanical and biochemical signals, and testing therapeutic interventions in real time."
Dual Focus: Reproductive Health and Gastroenterology
The presentation covered two key application areas. The placenta-on-a-chip section featured data on modeling trophoblast invasion, placental barrier, and hypoxic conditions characteristic of preeclampsia. The intestine-on-a-chip application demonstrated the ability to study inflammatory processes and epithelial barrier function.
Forum specialists highlighted the relevance of the interdisciplinary approach combining molecular biology, tissue engineering, and bioinformatics to address fundamental and clinical challenges.
Research Support
The laboratory's work is supported by the HSE University Basic Research Program, the Russian Science Foundation, and through collaboration with leading medical centers nationwide.