Doctoral Student Recognised with Best Poster Award for Research on Ethical Alternatives to Animal Testing

By mimicking a human joint, this physiologically relevant 3D model challenges conventional testing methods. It provides more predictive results while offering a safe and accurate testing ground for new treatments. Furthermore, the innovation addresses the ethical challenges of animal testing during preclinical trials, significantly reducing the reliance on animal research.

Developed by our doctoral student Anwesha Laha, this work is detailed in her poster, 'A 3D Macrophage–Synoviocyte Spheroid Model to Evaluate Targeted Therapy for the Rheumatoid Arthritis Synovium,' which was named among the Top 10 Best Poster Awardees at the International Conference on Frontiers of Engineering in Healthcare (FEH 2025).

The award-winning poster presents a 3D in vitro synovial model comprising macrophages and synoviocytes. Under specific extracellular matrix conditions and pro-inflammatory stimulation, the model replicates key features of the synovial microenvironment found in rheumatoid arthritis patients. This allows for a more predictive evaluation of targeted therapeutics compared to conventional monoculture systems.

IIT Gandhinagar and Gujarat Technological University organised the conference to showcase emerging technologies, innovative healthcare solutions, and translational research at the interface of engineering and medicine.