Microphysiological Modeling of Gingival Tissues and Host‐Material Interactions Using Gingiva‐on‐Chip

Abstract

AbstractGingiva plays a crucial barrier role at the interface of teeth, tooth‐supporting structures, microbiome, and external agents. To mimic this complex microenvironment, an in vitro microphysiological platform and biofabricated full‐thickness gingival equivalents (gingiva‐on‐chip) within a vertically stacked microfluidic device is developed. This design allowed long‐term and air‐liquid interface culture, and host‐material interactions under flow conditions. Compared to static cultures, dynamic cultures on‐chip enabled the biofabrication of gingival equivalents with stable mucosal matrix, improved epithelial morphogenesis, and barrier features. Additionally, a diseased state with disrupted barrier function representative of gingival/oral mucosal ulcers is modeled. The apical flow feature is utilized to emulate the mechanical action of mouth rinse and integrate the assessment of host‐material interactions and transmucosal permeation of oral‐care formulations in both healthy and diseased states. Although the gingiva‐on‐chip cultures have thicker and more mature epithelium, the flow of oral‐care formulations induced increased tissue disruption and cytotoxic features compared to static conditions. The realistic emulation of mouth rinsing action facilitated a more physiological assessment of mucosal irritation potential. Overall, this microphysiological system enables biofabrication of human gingiva equivalents in intact and ulcerated states, providing a miniaturized and integrated platform for downstream host‐material and host‐microbiome applications in gingival and oral mucosa research.