THE WHAT? Evonik has announced that it has invested in a Singaporean start-up in a bid to advance alternatives to animal testing. Revivo BioSystems has developed a technology that uses a realistic 4D model of human skin for the testing of chemical, cosmetic and pharmaceutical compounds.

THE DETAILS The alternative testing method is also said to be quicker, more reliable and cost efficient.

The organ-on-a-chip system simulates the interaction of human skin with the substance being tested. Skin tissues, which have been grown in a laboratory, or a human skin sample are placed on biochips which are supplied with nutrients and reagents. In contrast to other model systems, it mimics the function of blood flow, creating a more realistic measurement of the interaction of care products and the skin.

THE WHY? Bernhard Mohr, Head of Evonik Venture Capital commented, “Our goal is to support emerging technologies that look beyond the way research is done today and accelerate more sustainable and ethical practices.”