In the Netherlands organ-on-a-chip (OoC) is seen as a promising new technology, since it can transform drug development by replicating the key functions of human organs on a microfluidic chip. This animal-free technology has the potential to transform the Life Sciences & Health sector. It is expected that it will contribute to sustainable and structural economic growth, improved drug development and most importantly, improved quality of life.
To accelerate the implementation of OoC, Health~Holland launched an initiative*, focused on fostering international collaborations in the OoC field—specifically for preclinical testing to improve and accelerate drug development. One of our key goals of the organ-on-a-chip initiative is to set up and strengthen strategic partnerships between the Netherlands and Switzerland, as both countries are at the forefront of organoids and OoC technologies. In this regard, we planned several activities to connect Dutch and Swiss stakeholders, with the Swiss Biotech Day as the first upcoming event. Additionally, we are conducting an in-depth market study to identify key areas for collaboration between the Netherlands and Switzerland. Based on these insights, we will develop a roadmap to facilitate the enhanced and accelerated implementation of OoC technology.
*The organ-on-a-chip initiative is commissioned by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, between Health~Holland, the Netherlands Enterprise Agency (RVO), the Dutch Embassy in Switzerland, and the life sciences & health industry.