Fraunhofer Institute for Interfacial Engineering and Biotechnology IGBA fundamental area of biofabrication is the production of in-vitro tissue models for biomedicine. The work at Fraunhofer IGB is carried out in close collaboration with the biofabrication team at the Institute of Interfacial Process Engineering and Plasma Technology (IGVP) at the University of Stuttgart, headed by Prof. Dr. Petra Kluger.
Tissue models and in-vitro test systems for biomedicine
In-vitro models from adipose and musculoskeletal tissues
At Fraunhofer IGB, we use biofabrication to develop a wide range of tissue models from human cells for biomedical applications.
Our focus is on adipose tissue models as well as musculoskeletal tissues such as cartilage, tendons, and muscle. By combining suitable cell sources, defined media, and functional biomaterials, we generate physiologically relevant systems.
These are used both as in-vitro test systems for drug development and disease modeling, as well as for applications in regenerative medicine.
Our services: development from cell isolation to biomedical application
Establishment of cell sources and cell models
We develop suitable cell sources and cell-based models for biomedical applications. In doing so, we work with various tissue types, with a particular focus on adipose tissue in different forms as well as on musculoskeletal tissues such as cartilage, tendons, and muscle.
Our services at a glance
- Isolation and cultivation of primary human cells
- Work with various cell types, particularly adipose-derived stem cells, adult adipocytes, and muscle, cartilage, tendon, and skin cells
- Development of models for subcutaneous and intramuscular adipose tissue
- Establishment and characterization of cell models, including inflammatory and metabolic states
- Establishment of co-culture systems
- Functional and cell biological analysis
Media development
We develop defined cell culture media that are specifically tailored to the requirements of different cell types and applications and enable high functionality and reproducibility.
Our services at a glance
- Development of serum-free and defined media
- Adaptation to proliferation and differentiation processes, particularly for fat and muscle cells
- Optimization for specific cell types and tissue functions
- Development of reproducible and standardized culture conditions
Model of an ankle joint with cartilage, ligaments, and tendons
Development of tissue models and applications
We develop 2D and 3D tissue models for biomedical research and translate these into application-oriented systems – from in-vitro test systems to approaches for regenerative medicine.
Our services at a glance
- Development of 2D and 3D tissue models of varying complexity
- Development of specialized models, particularly for adipose tissue (subcutaneous, intramuscular) as well as for muscle, cartilage, tendon, and skin tissue
- Development of functional adipose tissue models for the investigation of metabolic and inflammatory processes
- Integration of co-cultures and complex cell architectures to mimic physiological conditions
- Use of bioprinting and other biofabrication methods for structured tissue production
- Development of physiologically relevant in-vitro test systems for drug testing and safety assessment
- Modeling of disease states, e.g., inflammatory or metabolic changes