Cellames Develops 96-Channel MEA System Capable of Simultaneous Analysis of 12 Organoids

Cellames announced on September 16 that it has successfully developed a next-generation 96-channel MEA (Micro-Electrode Array) system capable of simultaneously analyzing 12 organoids, through the 'Super-Gap Startup 1000+ Project (DIPS)' support program.

This product is designed to support in vitro toxicity assessment and high-throughput drug screening, in line with the global trend of NAMs (New Approach Methodologies) for animal alternative testing methods.

Technically, this system enables: ▲ simultaneous analysis of 12 organoids using eight electrodes ▲ high-throughput and large-scale drug screening and toxicity assessment with 96 independent electrodes ▲ monitoring of cell proliferation, death, and differentiation via impedance measurement ▲ MEA-based electrical signal measurement and electrical stimulation functions ▲ and an integrated, intuitive analysis software that maximizes research efficiency. As a result, electrophysiological responses from 12 cardiac and brain organoids can be observed in real time in a single experiment.

A company representative explained, "The greatest advantage is the ability to rapidly conduct large-scale toxicity assessments and drug candidate screenings." From a business perspective, Cellames is currently in supply negotiations with domestic pharmaceutical companies and CROs, and is actively preparing for exports through overseas distributors in Japan, Europe, and the United States.

Cellames' strategy is to establish itself as the only domestic supplier of a 96-channel organoid MEA system for toxicity assessment equipment, leveraging the rapidly growing global demand for animal alternative testing platforms, as both the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) are recommending the use of NAMs.

Looking ahead, the company plans to expand compatibility with various cell models such as brain, liver, and lung organoids, and to develop the platform into a next-generation advanced system by adding an AI-based data interpretation module.

In the research and development (R&D) sector, Cellames is also developing new products through government support for bio materials, parts, and equipment, including ▲ a monitoring system for mass production of regenerative therapy organoids based on fusion sensors ▲ and a brain neural analysis system optimized for brain organoids. The company is actively conducting joint research with numerous research institutes, companies, and universities.

Cellames CEO Cho Sangjun emphasized, "This 96-channel MEA system is a solution that can replace animal testing, enabling the rapid acquisition of clinical-like data even at the preclinical stage, and will be utilized in a wide range of research and development fields. We will work to accelerate the adoption of NAMs by collaborating with domestic researchers as well as global stakeholders involved in NAMs-based toxicity assessment and drug development."