Platform for Radiation-Induced Senescence using Multiorgans” (PRISM) for high throughput senolytics screening

In response to ionizing radiation (IR), cells can undergo premature senescence, known as stress-induced senescence, triggered by various stimuli like DNA damage, oxidative stress, and oncogenic activation. Senotherapeutics discovery is crucial for overcoming the obstacle of space radiation in long-duration missions. However, the identification of senescence remains challenging due to a lack of robust biomarkers. Biopico Systems realized that with advancements in organ-on-a-chip technologies, new senotherapeutics can be designed to target specific senescent cell subpopulations. Therefore, Biopico Systems, in collaboration with UC Irvine, is proposing the Platform for Radiation-Induced Senescence using Multiorgans (PRISM) for senotherapeutics screening, to NASA. This platform aims to translate strategies into clinical outcomes for preventing or halting senescence using 3D brain and gut organ models exposed to ionizing radiation. To commercialize the organ platform, Biopico Systems Inc. has filed several patent applications. An alpha prototype of the organ plates and recirculation system has been established, and collaborations are ongoing for drug development. Additionally, there is interest from drug developers developing therapies for neurological diseases, indicating potential customers. The proposal aims to validate organ models for high-throughput senotherapeutics testing, characterize organ models for senescence markers, and screen senescence-modulating interventions for space radiation exposure applications. Apart from NASA's application in radiation countermeasures, health monitoring, and space mission planning, the product will target therapies that induce senescence in cancer cells, potentially slowing down the aging process and extending healthy lifespan, and addressing various age-related diseases such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and diabetes.