The Tulane Center of Excellence for Microphysiological Systems
Advancing the Future of Biomedical Research
The Tulane Center of Excellence for Microphysiological Systems (TCE-MPS) is a pioneering research hub dedicated to accelerating the development, standardization, and commercialization of microphysiological systems (MPS) — one of the most transformative technologies in the realm of New Approach Methodologies (NAM).
What Are Microphysiological Systems?
Microphysiological Systems (MPS) — including organoids, organ-on-a-chip, and related technologies — are complex, three-dimensional, biomimetic microtissues that recapitulate the complex physiology of living organs outside the body. By recreating organ-level function at the microscale, MPS platforms are revolutionizing how scientists study disease, screen drugs, and develop personalized therapies.
The MPS field has grown exponentially over the past two decades. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has recognized the potential of MPS to increase the translation, efficiency, efficacy, and safety of candidate therapeutics, and the technology is poised to become an integral part of the drug development process.
Why Tulane?
Tulane University is uniquely positioned to become a national leader in MPS research. Faculty across the School of Science & Engineering (SSE) and the School of Medicine (SOM) have already established world-class MPS programs — and have translated that expertise into local biotechnology ventures. The TCE-MPS formalizes and amplifies this momentum by creating a unified, interdisciplinary center where researchers, clinicians, engineers, industry partners, and regulatory experts converge.
Our Mission
The primary goal of the TCE-MPS is to accelerate MPS research, innovation, and commercialization at Tulane. We pursue this mission through four core aims:
- Building a vibrant community of MPS stakeholders at Tulane and nationwide
- Developing new MPS models and assays with strong physiological relevance
- Training the next generation of MPS scientists and researchers
- Establishing the Tulane iPSC Core — a new institutional resource for induced pluripotent stem cell generation and gene editing
Translational Impact
The TCE-MPS bridges the gap between laboratory discovery and clinical or commercial application. Through a robust bench-to-business pipeline, we help Tulane researchers identify patentable technologies, connect with industry partners, and pursue Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) funding. Our goal is to make Tulane a recognized hub for MPS innovation that drives meaningful impact for patients, clinicians, and the biotechnology industry.
By supporting innovative research, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and providing critical shared resources — including the new Tulane iPSC Core — the TCE-MPS advances personalized medicine research and helps establish New Orleans as a leading scientific center for next-generation biomedical technologies.
