1
|
Husch JFA, Araújo-Gomes N, Willemen NGA, Cofiño-Fabrés C, van Creij N, Passier R, Leijten J, van den Beucken JJJP. Upscaling Osteoclast Generation by Enhancing Macrophage Aggregation Using Hollow Microgels. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2403272. [PMID: 39087382 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202403272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Osteoclasts, the bone resorbing cells of hematopoietic origin formed by macrophage fusion, are essential in bone health and disease. However, in vitro research on osteoclasts remains challenging due to heterogeneous cultures that only contain a few multinucleated osteoclasts. Indeed, a strategy to generate homogeneous populations of multinucleated osteoclasts in a scalable manner has remained elusive. Here, the investigation focuses on whether microencapsulation of human macrophages in microfluidically generated hollow, sacrificial tyramine-conjugated dextran (Dex-TA) microgels could facilitate macrophage precursor aggregation and formation of multinucleated osteoclasts. Therefore, human mononuclear cells are isolated from buffy coats and differentiated toward macrophages. Macrophages are encapsulated in microgels using flow focus microfluidics and outside-in enzymatic oxidative phenolic crosslinking, and differentiated toward osteoclasts. Morphology, viability, and osteoclast fusion of microencapsulated cells are assessed. Furthermore, microgels are degraded to allow cell sorting of released cells based on osteoclastic marker expression. The successful encapsulation and osteoclast formation of human macrophages in Dex-TA microgels are reported for the first time using high-throughput droplet microfluidics. Intriguingly, osteoclast formation within these 3D microenvironments occurs at a significantly higher level compared to the conventional 2D culture system. Furthermore, the feasibility of establishing a pure osteoclast culture from cell transfer and release from degradable microgels is demonstrated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johanna F A Husch
- Regenerative Biomaterials, Department of Dentistry, Radboudumc, Philips van Leydenlaan 25, Nijmegen, 6525EX, The Netherlands
- Leijten Laboratory, Department of BioEngineering Technologies, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522NB, The Netherlands
| | - Nuno Araújo-Gomes
- Leijten Laboratory, Department of BioEngineering Technologies, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522NB, The Netherlands
| | - Niels G A Willemen
- Leijten Laboratory, Department of BioEngineering Technologies, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522NB, The Netherlands
| | - Carla Cofiño-Fabrés
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, Department of BioEngineering Technologies, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522NB, The Netherlands
| | - Nils van Creij
- Regenerative Biomaterials, Department of Dentistry, Radboudumc, Philips van Leydenlaan 25, Nijmegen, 6525EX, The Netherlands
| | - Robert Passier
- Applied Stem Cell Technologies, Department of BioEngineering Technologies, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522NB, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen Leijten
- Leijten Laboratory, Department of BioEngineering Technologies, University of Twente, Drienerlolaan 5, Enschede, 7522NB, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J J P van den Beucken
- Regenerative Biomaterials, Department of Dentistry, Radboudumc, Philips van Leydenlaan 25, Nijmegen, 6525EX, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Adams SK, Ducharme GE, Loveday EK. All the single cells: if you like it then you should put some virus on it. J Virol 2024; 98:e0127323. [PMID: 38904395 PMCID: PMC11324023 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.01273-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Across a rich 70-year history, single-cell virology has revealed the impact of host and pathogen heterogeneity during virus infections. Recent technological innovations have enabled higher-resolution analyses of cellular and viral heterogeneity. Furthermore, single-cell analysis has revealed extreme phenotypes and provided additional insights into host-pathogen dynamics. Using a single-cell approach to explore fundamental virology questions, contemporary researchers have contributed to a revival of interest in single-cell virology with increased insights and enthusiasm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophia K. Adams
- Department of
Chemistry and Biochemistry, Montana State
University, Bozeman,
Montana, USA
- Center for Biofilm
Engineering, Montana State University,
Bozeman, Montana, USA
| | - Grace E. Ducharme
- Center for Biofilm
Engineering, Montana State University,
Bozeman, Montana, USA
- Department of Chemical
and Biological Engineering, Montana State
University, Bozeman,
Montana, USA
| | - Emma K. Loveday
- Center for Biofilm
Engineering, Montana State University,
Bozeman, Montana, USA
- Department of Chemical
and Biological Engineering, Montana State
University, Bozeman,
Montana, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cheng C, Williamson EJ, Chiu GTC, Han B. Engineering biomaterials by inkjet printing of hydrogels with functional particulates. MED-X 2024; 2:9. [PMID: 38975024 PMCID: PMC11222244 DOI: 10.1007/s44258-024-00024-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 06/04/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
Hydrogels with particulates, including proteins, drugs, nanoparticles, and cells, enable the development of new and innovative biomaterials. Precise control of the spatial distribution of these particulates is crucial to produce advanced biomaterials. Thus, there is a high demand for manufacturing methods for particle-laden hydrogels. In this context, 3D printing of hydrogels is emerging as a promising method to create numerous innovative biomaterials. Among the 3D printing methods, inkjet printing, so-called drop-on-demand (DOD) printing, stands out for its ability to construct biomaterials with superior spatial resolutions. However, its printing processes are still designed by trial and error due to a limited understanding of the ink behavior during the printing processes. This review discusses the current understanding of transport processes and hydrogel behaviors during inkjet printing for particulate-laden hydrogels. Specifically, we review the transport processes of water and particulates within hydrogel during ink formulation, jetting, and curing. Additionally, we examine current inkjet printing applications in fabricating engineered tissues, drug delivery devices, and advanced bioelectronics components. Finally, the challenges and opportunities for next-generation inkjet printing are also discussed. Graphical Abstract
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Cih Cheng
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA
| | - Eric J Williamson
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA
| | - George T.-C. Chiu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA
| | - Bumsoo Han
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA
- Purdue Institute for Cancer Research, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN USA
- Department of Mechanical Science and Engineering, Materials Research Laboratory and Cancer Center at Illinois, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, 1206 W Green St, Urbana, IL 61801 USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Fan Z, Chen Y, Yang Z, Niu Y, Liang K, Zhang Y, Zeng J, Feng Y, Zhang Y, Liu Y, Lv C, Zhao P, Zhou L, Kong W, Li W, Chen H, Han D, Du Y. Superimposed Electric Field Enhanced Electrospray for High-Throughput and Consistent Cell Encapsulation. Adv Healthc Mater 2024:e2400780. [PMID: 38850154 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202400780] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
Cell encapsulation technology, crucial for advanced biomedical applications, faces challenges in existing microfluidic and electrospray methods. Microfluidic techniques, while precise, can damage vulnerable cells, and conventional electrospray methods often encounter instability and capsule breakage during high-throughput encapsulation. Inspired by the transformation of the working state from unstable dripping to stable jetting triggered by local electric potential, this study introduces a superimposed electric field (SEF)-enhanced electrospray method for cell encapsulation, with improved stability and biocompatibility. Utilizing stiffness theory, the stability of the electrospray, whose stiffness is five times stronger under conical confinement, is quantitatively analyzed. The SEF technique enables rapid, continuous production of ≈300 core-shell capsules per second in an aqueous environment, significantly improving cell encapsulation efficiency. This method demonstrates remarkable potential as exemplified in two key applications: (1) a 92-fold increase in human-derived induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) expansion over 10 d, outperforming traditional 2D cultures in both growth rate and pluripotency maintenance, and (2) the development of liver capsules for steatosis modeling, exhibiting normal function and biomimetic lipid accumulation. The SEF-enhanced electrospray method presents a significant advancement in cell encapsulation technology. It offers a more efficient, stable, and biocompatible approach for clinical transplantation, drug screening, and cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zejun Fan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Biological and Environmental Science and Engineering Division, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), Thuwal, 23955-6900, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Yihan Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Zhen Yang
- Arthritis Clinical and Research Center, Peking University People's Hospital, No.11 Xizhimen South Street, Beijing, 100044, China
- Arthritis Institute, Peking University, Beijing, 100044, China
| | - Yudi Niu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Kaini Liang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jianan Zeng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yiting Feng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yuying Zhang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Ye Liu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- Institute of Engineering Medicine, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Cheng Lv
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Peng Zhao
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Lv Zhou
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Wenyu Kong
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Wenjing Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Haoke Chen
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Dongbo Han
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Yanan Du
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Tsinghua Medicine, Tsinghua-Peking Center for Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
- National Key Laboratory of Kidney Diseases, Beijing, 100000, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ko Y, Oh Y, Park CH, Kim SH. Designing Tough Hydrogel Shells for Glucose Sensing. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2310283. [PMID: 38227378 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202310283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Conventional hydrogel microcapsules often suffer from inadequate mechanical stability, hindering their use. Here, water-cored double-network (DN) hydrogel shells are designed, formed by polyacrylamide and calcium alginate networks using triple-emulsion templates. These DN hydrogel shells offer robust mechanical stability, optical transparency, and a precisely-defined cut-off threshold. The feasibility of this platform is demonstrated through the development of a fluorometric glucose sensor. Glucose oxidase is enclosed within the water core, while a pH-responsive fluorescent dye is incorporated into the DN shells. Glucose diffuses into the core through the DN shells, where the glucose oxidase converts glucose into gluconic acid, leading to pH reduction and a subsequent decrease in fluorescence intensity of DN shells. Additionally, the pH-sensitive colorant dissolved in the medium enables visual pH assessment. Thus, glucose levels can be determined using both fluorometric and colorimetric methods. Notably, the DN shells exhibit exceptional stability, enduring intense mechanical stress and cycles of drying and rehydration without leakage. Moreover, the DN shells act as effective barriers, safeguarding glucose oxidase against proteolysis by large disruptive proteins, like pancreatin. This versatile DN shell platform extends beyond glucose oxidase encapsulation, serving as a foundation for various capsule sensors utilizing enzymes and heterogeneous catalysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yeounju Ko
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoonjin Oh
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan Ho Park
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
- Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering, Gachon University, Seongnam, 13120, Republic of Korea
| | - Shin-Hyun Kim
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST), Daejeon, 34141, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Yadav AS, Galogahi FM, Vashi A, Tran DT, Kijanka GS, Cha H, Sreejith KR, Nguyen NT. Synthesis and active manipulation of magnetic liquid beads. Biomed Microdevices 2024; 26:24. [PMID: 38709370 PMCID: PMC11074228 DOI: 10.1007/s10544-024-00708-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
We report the fabrication and characterisation of magnetic liquid beads with a solid magnetic shell and liquid core using microfluidic techniques. The liquid beads consist of a fluorinated oil core and a polymer shell with magnetite particles. The beads are generated in a flow-focusing polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) device and cured by photo polymerisation. We investigated the response of the liquid beads to an external magnetic field by characterising their motion towards a permanent magnet. Magnetic sorting of liquid beads in a channel was achieved with 90% efficiency. The results show that the liquid beads can be controlled magnetically and have potential applications in digital microfluidics including nucleic acid amplification, drug delivery, cell culture, sensing, and tissue engineering. The present paper also discusses the magnetophoretic behaviour of the liquid bead by varying its mass and magnetite concentration in the shell. We also demonstrated the two-dimensional self-assembly of magnetic liquid beads for potential use in digital polymerase chain reaction and digital loop mediated isothermal amplification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajeet Singh Yadav
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Fariba Malekpour Galogahi
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Aditya Vashi
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Du Tuan Tran
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Gregor S Kijanka
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Haotian Cha
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Kamalalayam Rajan Sreejith
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD, 4111, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Ryoo H, Kimmel H, Rondo E, Underhill GH. Advances in high throughput cell culture technologies for therapeutic screening and biological discovery applications. Bioeng Transl Med 2024; 9:e10627. [PMID: 38818120 PMCID: PMC11135158 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Cellular phenotypes and functional responses are modulated by the signals present in their microenvironment, including extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, tissue mechanical properties, soluble signals and nutrients, and cell-cell interactions. To better recapitulate and analyze these complex signals within the framework of more physiologically relevant culture models, high throughput culture platforms can be transformative. High throughput methodologies enable scientists to extract increasingly robust and broad datasets from individual experiments, screen large numbers of conditions for potential hits, better qualify and predict responses for preclinical applications, and reduce reliance on animal studies. High throughput cell culture systems require uniformity, assay miniaturization, specific target identification, and process simplification. In this review, we detail the various techniques that researchers have used to face these challenges and explore cellular responses in a high throughput manner. We highlight several common approaches including two-dimensional multiwell microplates, microarrays, and microfluidic cell culture systems as well as unencapsulated and encapsulated three-dimensional high throughput cell culture systems, featuring multiwell microplates, micromolds, microwells, microarrays, granular hydrogels, and cell-encapsulated microgels. We also discuss current applications of these high throughput technologies, namely stem cell sourcing, drug discovery and predictive toxicology, and personalized medicine, along with emerging opportunities and future impact areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hyeon Ryoo
- Bioengineering DepartmentUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Hannah Kimmel
- Bioengineering DepartmentUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Evi Rondo
- Bioengineering DepartmentUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| | - Gregory H. Underhill
- Bioengineering DepartmentUniversity of Illinois Urbana‐ChampaignUrbanaIllinoisUSA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Jiang L, Guo K, Chen Y, Xiang N. Droplet Microfluidics for Current Cancer Research: From Single-Cell Analysis to 3D Cell Culture. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2024; 10:1335-1354. [PMID: 38420753 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.3c01866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Differences in drug resistance and treatment response caused by the heterogeneity of cancer cells are the primary reasons for poor cancer therapy outcomes in patients. In addition, current in vitro anticancer drug-screening methods rely on two-dimensional monolayer-cultured cancer cells, which cannot accurately predict drug behavior in vivo. Therefore, a powerful tool to study the heterogeneity of cancer cells and produce effective in vitro tumor models is warranted to leverage cancer research. Droplet microfluidics has become a powerful platform for the single-cell analysis of cancer cells and three-dimensional cell culture of in vitro tumor spheroids. In this review, we discuss the use of droplet microfluidics in cancer research. Droplet microfluidic technologies, including single- or double-emulsion droplet generation and passive- or active-droplet manipulation, are concisely discussed. Recent advances in droplet microfluidics for single-cell analysis of cancer cells, circulating tumor cells, and scaffold-free/based 3D cell culture of tumor spheroids have been systematically introduced. Finally, the challenges that must be overcome for the further application of droplet microfluidics in cancer research are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Jiang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Kefan Guo
- School of Mechanical Engineering, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Yao Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| | - Nan Xiang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Chen J, Liu Z, Wang Z, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Zhan Z, Gong X, Xu T. One-step biofabrication of liquid core-GelMa shell microbeads for in situ hollow cell ball self-assembly. Regen Biomater 2024; 11:rbae021. [PMID: 38525324 PMCID: PMC10960924 DOI: 10.1093/rb/rbae021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2023] [Revised: 01/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
There are many instances of hollow-structure morphogenesis in the development of tissues. Thus, the fabrication of hollow structures in a simple, high-throughput and homogeneous manner with proper natural biomaterial combination is valuable for developmental studies and tissue engineering, while it is a significant challenge in biofabrication field. We present a novel method for the fabrication of a hollow cell module using a coaxial co-flow capillary microfluidic device. Sacrificial gelatin laden with cells in the inner layer and GelMa in the outer layer are used via a coaxial co-flow capillary microfluidic device to produce homogenous micro-beads. The overall and core sizes of core-shell microbeads were well controlled. When using human vein vascular endothelial cells to demonstrate how cells line the inner surface of core-shell beads, as the core liquifies, a hollow cell ball with asymmetric features is fabricated. After release from the GelMa shell, individual cell balls are obtained and deformed cell balls can self-recover. This platform paves way for complex hollow tissue modeling in vitro, and further modulation of matrix stiffness, curvature and biochemical composition to mimic in vivo microenvironments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Chen
- Bio-intelligent Manufacturing and Living Matter Bioprinting Center, Research Institute of Tsinghua University in Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518057, People’s Republic of China
- Precision Medicine and Healthcare Research Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute (TBSI), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zeyang Liu
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Nanshan District, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zixian Wang
- Precision Medicine and Healthcare Research Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute (TBSI), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiuxiu Zhang
- Precision Medicine and Healthcare Research Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute (TBSI), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Precision Medicine and Healthcare Research Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute (TBSI), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zhan
- Department of Mechanical and Energy Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Nanshan District, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiaohua Gong
- School of Optometry and Vision Science Program, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA
| | - Tao Xu
- Bio-intelligent Manufacturing and Living Matter Bioprinting Center, Research Institute of Tsinghua University in Shenzhen, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518057, People’s Republic of China
- Precision Medicine and Healthcare Research Center, Tsinghua-Berkeley Shenzhen Institute (TBSI), Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, People’s Republic of China
- Tsinghua Shenzhen International Graduate School, Tsinghua University, Shenzhen 518055, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Wu B, Xu X, Li G, Yang X, Du F, Tan W, Wang J, Dong S, Luo J, Wang X, Cao Z. High-Throughput Microfluidic Production of Droplets and Hydrogel Microspheres through Monolithically Integrated Microchannel Plates. Anal Chem 2023; 95:13586-13595. [PMID: 37624148 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c02250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/26/2023]
Abstract
In this paper, we present a highly effective microfluidic emulsion system using an integrated microchannel plate (MCP), a porous glass membrane that is readily available and densely packs millions of through-microchannels, for high-throughput production of monodisperse droplets. The physical controls of droplet formation, including viscosity, flow rate, and pore size, have been extensively explored for optimum emulsification conditions. The performance of the device has been validated where monodisperse droplets with a narrow coefficient of variance (<5%) can be achieved at a dispersed phase flux of 3 mL h-1 from a piece of 4 × 4 mm2 MCP. The average droplet size is two times the nominal membrane pore diameter and thus can be easily controlled by choosing the appropriate membrane type. The preparation of hydrogel microspheres has also been demonstrated with a high throughput of 1.5 × 106 particles min-1. These microspheres with a uniform size range and rough surface morphology provide suitable bioenvironments and serve as ideal carriers for cell culture. Mouse fibroblasts are shown to be cultured on these 3D scaffolds with an average cell viability of over 96%. The cell attachment rate can reach up to 112 ± 7% in 24 h and the proliferation ability increases with the number of culture days. Furthermore, the device has been applied in the droplet digital polymerase chain reaction for absolute quantification of lung cancer-related PLAU genes. The detection limit achieved was noted to be 0.5 copies/μL with a dynamic range of 105 ranging from 1 × 102 to 1 × 106 copies/μL. Given the easy fabrication, robust performance, and simple operation, the emulsion system sets the stage for the laboratory's droplet-based assays and applications in tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boxuan Wu
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, P. R. China
- International Joint Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, P. R. China
| | - Xuefeng Xu
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, P. R. China
| | - Guangyang Li
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, P. R. China
| | - Xi Yang
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, P. R. China
| | - Feiya Du
- Department of Plastic and Cosmetic Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, P. R. China
| | - Weiqiang Tan
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, P. R. China
| | - Jianmin Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310016, P. R. China
| | - Shurong Dong
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, P. R. China
- International Joint Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, P. R. China
| | - Jikui Luo
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, P. R. China
- International Joint Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, P. R. China
| | - Xiaozhi Wang
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, P. R. China
| | - Zhen Cao
- College of Information Science and Electronic Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, P. R. China
- International Joint Innovation Center, Zhejiang University, Haining 314400, P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Morán MDC, Cirisano F, Ferrari M. Spheroid Formation and Recovery Using Superhydrophobic Coating for Regenerative Purposes. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:2226. [PMID: 37765195 PMCID: PMC10538210 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15092226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/25/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Cell therapies commonly pursue tissue stimulation for regenerative purposes by replacing cell numbers or supplying for functional deficiencies. To this aim, monodispersed cells are usually transplanted for incorporation by local injection. The limitations of this strategy include poor success associated with cell death, insufficient retention, or cell damage due to shear forces associated with the injection. Spheroids have recently emerged as a model that mimics an in vivo environment with more representative cell-to-cell interactions and better intercellular communication. Nevertheless, cost-effective and lab friendly fabrication and effectively performed recovery are challenges that restrict the broad application of spheroids. In this work, glass surfaces were modified with an environmentally friendly superhydrophobic coating. The superhydrophobic surfaces were used for the 3D spheroid preparation of fibroblasts (3T3 cell line) and keratinocytes (HaCaT cell line). The effectiveness of the spheroids to be recovered and grown under 2D culture conditions was evaluated. The morphology of the migrated cells from the 3D spheroids was characterized at the nano-microscale through 3D profilometry. The results demonstrated improved adhesion and proliferation in the migrated cells, both advanced properties for regenerative applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- María del Carmen Morán
- Departament de Bioquímica i Fisiologia, Secció de Fisiologia—Facultat de Farmàcia i Ciències de l’Alimentació, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Joan XXIII, 27-31, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia—IN2UB, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal, 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Francesca Cirisano
- CNR-ICMATE Istituto di Chimica della Materia Condensata e di Tecnologie per l’Energia, Via De Marini, 6, 16149 Genova, Italy;
| | - Michele Ferrari
- Institut de Nanociència i Nanotecnologia—IN2UB, Universitat de Barcelona, Avda. Diagonal, 645, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
- CNR-ICMATE Istituto di Chimica della Materia Condensata e di Tecnologie per l’Energia, Via De Marini, 6, 16149 Genova, Italy;
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Han F, Meng Q, Xie E, Li K, Hu J, Chen Q, Li J, Han F. Engineered biomimetic micro/nano-materials for tissue regeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1205792. [PMID: 37469449 PMCID: PMC10352664 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1205792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The incidence of tissue and organ damage caused by various diseases is increasing worldwide. Tissue engineering is a promising strategy of tackling this problem because of its potential to regenerate or replace damaged tissues and organs. The biochemical and biophysical cues of biomaterials can stimulate and induce biological activities such as cell adhesion, proliferation and differentiation, and ultimately achieve tissue repair and regeneration. Micro/nano materials are a special type of biomaterial that can mimic the microstructure of tissues on a microscopic scale due to its precise construction, further providing scaffolds with specific three-dimensional structures to guide the activities of cells. The study and application of biomimetic micro/nano-materials have greatly promoted the development of tissue engineering. This review aims to provide an overview of the different types of micro/nanomaterials, their preparation methods and their application in tissue regeneration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feng Han
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou Medical College, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qingchen Meng
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou Medical College, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - En Xie
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou Medical College, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Kexin Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou Medical College, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jie Hu
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou Medical College, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qianglong Chen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou Medical College, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jiaying Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou Medical College, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Fengxuan Han
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou Medical College, Orthopedic Institute, Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
- China Orthopaedic Regenerative Medicine Group (CORMed), Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sun G, Qu L, Azi F, Liu Y, Li J, Lv X, Du G, Chen J, Chen CH, Liu L. Recent progress in high-throughput droplet screening and sorting for bioanalysis. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 225:115107. [PMID: 36731396 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Owing to its ability to isolate single cells and perform high-throughput sorting, droplet sorting has been widely applied in several research fields. Compared with flow cytometry, droplet allows the encapsulation of single cells for cell secretion or lysate analysis. With the rapid development of this technology in the past decade, various droplet sorting devices with high throughput and accuracy have been developed. A droplet sorter with the highest sorting throughput of 30,000 droplets per second was developed in 2015. Since then, increased attention has been paid to expanding the possibilities of droplet sorting technology and strengthening its advantages over flow cytometry. This review aimed to summarize the recent progress in droplet sorting technology from the perspectives of device design, detection signal, actuating force, and applications. Technical details for improving droplet sorting through various approaches are introduced and discussed. Finally, we discuss the current limitations of droplet sorting for single-cell studies along with the existing gap between the laboratory and industry and provide our insights for future development of droplet sorters.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guoyun Sun
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China; Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Lisha Qu
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Fidelis Azi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Guangdong Technion-Israel Institute of Technology GTIIT, Shantou, Guangdong, 515063, China
| | - Yanfeng Liu
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China; Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Jianghua Li
- Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Xueqin Lv
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China; Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Guocheng Du
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China; Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Jian Chen
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China; Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China
| | - Chia-Hung Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Long Liu
- Science Center for Future Foods, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China; Key Laboratory of Carbohydrate Chemistry and Biotechnology, Ministry of Education, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, 214122, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zheng J, Hu X, Gao X, Liu Y, Zhao S, Chen L, He G, Zhang J, Wei L, Yang Y. Convenient tumor 3D spheroid arrays manufacturing via acoustic excited bubbles for in situ drug screening. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:1593-1602. [PMID: 36752157 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00973k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The quick and convenient fabrication of in vitro tumor spheroids models has been pursued for clinical drug discovery and personalized therapy. Here, uniform three-dimensional (3D) tumor spheroids are quickly constructed by acoustically excited bubble arrays in a microfluidic chip and performed drug response testing in situ. In detail, bubble oscillation excited by acoustic waves induces second radiation force, resulting in the cells rotating and aggregating into tumor spheroids, which obtain controllable sizes ranging from 30 to 300 μm. These spherical tumor models are located in microfluidic networks, where drug solutions with gradient concentrations are generated from 0 to 18 mg mL-1, so that the cell spheroids response to drugs can be monitored conveniently and efficiently. This one-step tumor spheroids manufacturing method significantly reduces the model construction time to less than 15 s and increases efficiency by eliminating additional transfer processes. These significant advantages of convenience and high-throughput manufacturing make the tumor models promising for use in tumor treatment and point-of-care diagnosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Zheng
- School of Physics & Technology, Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-Structures of Ministry of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Medicine and Physics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Xuejia Hu
- Department of Electronic Engineering, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Xiaoqi Gao
- School of Physics & Technology, Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-Structures of Ministry of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Medicine and Physics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Yantong Liu
- School of Physics & Technology, Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-Structures of Ministry of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Medicine and Physics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Shukun Zhao
- School of Physics & Technology, Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-Structures of Ministry of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Medicine and Physics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Longfei Chen
- School of Physics & Technology, Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-Structures of Ministry of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Medicine and Physics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Guoqing He
- School of Physics & Technology, Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-Structures of Ministry of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Medicine and Physics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| | - Jingwei Zhang
- Department of Breast & Thyroid Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Lei Wei
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Yi Yang
- School of Physics & Technology, Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-Structures of Ministry of Education, Department of Clinical Laboratory, Institute of Medicine and Physics, Renmin Hospital, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, China.
- Shenzhen Research Institute, Wuhan University, Shenzhen 518000, China
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wang Y, Liu M, Zhang Y, Liu H, Han L. Recent methods of droplet microfluidics and their applications in spheroids and organoids. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:1080-1096. [PMID: 36628972 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00493c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Droplet microfluidic techniques have long been known as a high-throughput approach for cell manipulation. The capacity to compartmentalize cells into picolitre droplets in microfluidic devices has opened up a range of new ways to extract information from cells. Spheroids and organoids are crucial in vitro three-dimensional cell culture models that physiologically mimic natural tissues and organs. With the aid of developments in cell biology and materials science, droplet microfluidics has been applied to construct spheroids and organoids in numerous formats. In this article, we divide droplet microfluidic approaches for managing spheroids and organoids into three categories based on the droplet module format: liquid droplet, microparticle, and microcapsule. We discuss current advances in the use of droplet microfluidics for the generation of tumour spheroids, stem cell spheroids, and organoids, as well as the downstream applications of these methods in high-throughput screening and tissue engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yihe Wang
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237 P. R. China.
| | - Mengqi Liu
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237 P. R. China.
| | - Yu Zhang
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237 P. R. China.
| | - Hong Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Crystal Materials, Shandong University, Jinan, 250100 P. R. China.
| | - Lin Han
- Institute of Marine Science and Technology, Shandong University, Qingdao, 266237 P. R. China.
- Shandong Engineering Research Center of Biomarker and Artificial Intelligence Application, Jinan, 250100 P. R. China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Highly efficient fabrication of functional hepatocyte spheroids by a magnetic system for the rescue of acute liver failure. Biomaterials 2023; 294:122014. [PMID: 36709644 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2023.122014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Engineering hepatocytes as multicellular cell spheroids can improve their viability after implantation in vivo for effective rescue of the devastating acute liver failure (ALF). However, there is still a lack of straightforward methods for efficient generation of functional hepatocyte spheroids. In this study, a magnetic system, consisting of magnetic microwell arrays and magnet blocks, is developed to realize magnetically controlled 3D cell capture and spatial confinement-mediated cell aggregation. The cell spheroids with smaller size show superior hepatic functions than the larger-sized counterparts. Notably, the intrinsic magnetism of magnetic microwell arrays can regulate superoxide anions in hepatocyte spheroids and herein promote various biological processes, including antioxidation, hepatocyte-related functions, and pro-angiogenic potential. Ectopic implantation of the functional cell spheroids in ALF-challenged mice significantly prolongs the animal survival, ameliorates inflammation, and promotes liver regeneration. Hence, application of the magnetic system for generation of functionally enhanced hepatocyte spheroids holds great potential for clinical translation in the future.
Collapse
|
17
|
Deivasigamani R, Mohd Maidin NN, Abdul Nasir NS, Abdulhameed A, Ahmad Kayani AB, Mohamed MA, Buyong MR. A correlation of conductivity medium and bioparticle viability on dielectrophoresis-based biomedical applications. Electrophoresis 2023; 44:573-620. [PMID: 36604943 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202200203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2022] [Revised: 11/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/26/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Dielectrophoresis (DEP) bioparticle research has progressed from micro to nano levels. It has proven to be a promising and powerful cell manipulation method with an accurate, quick, inexpensive, and label-free technique for therapeutic purposes. DEP, an electrokinetic phenomenon, induces particle movement as a result of polarization effects in a nonuniform electrical field. This review focuses on current research in the biomedical field that demonstrates a practical approach to DEP in terms of cell separation, trapping, discrimination, and enrichment under the influence of the conductive medium in correlation with bioparticle viability. The current review aims to provide readers with an in-depth knowledge of the fundamental theory and principles of the DEP technique, which is influenced by conductive medium and to identify and demonstrate the biomedical application areas. The high conductivity of physiological fluids presents obstacles and opportunities, followed by bioparticle viability in an electric field elaborated in detail. Finally, the drawbacks of DEP-based systems and the outlook for the future are addressed. This article will aid in advancing technology by bridging the gap between bioscience and engineering. We hope the insights presented in this review will improve cell suspension medium and promote DEP-viable bioparticle manipulation for health-care diagnostics and therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Revathy Deivasigamani
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Nasyifa Mohd Maidin
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nur Shahira Abdul Nasir
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | | | - Aminuddin Bin Ahmad Kayani
- Functional Materials and Microsystems Research Group and the Micro Nano Research Facility, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia.,ARC Research Hub for Connected Sensors for Health, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Mohd Ambri Mohamed
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Muhamad Ramdzan Buyong
- Institute of Microengineering and Nanoelectronics (IMEN), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bi W, Cai S, Lei T, Wang L. Implementation of blood-brain barrier on microfluidic chip: recent advance and future prospects. Ageing Res Rev 2023; 87:101921. [PMID: 37004842 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Abstract
The complex structure of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) hinders its modeling and the treatment of brain diseases. The microfluidic technology promotes the development of BBB-on-a-chip platforms, which can be used to reproduce the complex brain microenvironment and physiological reactions. Compared with traditional transwell technology, microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip shows great technical advantages in terms of flexible control of fluid shear stress in the chip and fabrication efficiency of the chip system, which can be enhanced by the development of lithography and three-dimensional (3D) printing. It is convenient to accurately monitor the dynamic changes of biochemical parameters of individual cells in the model by integrating an automatic super-resolution imaging sensing platform. In addition, biomaterials, especially hydrogels and conductive polymers, solve the limitations of microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip by compounding onto microfluidic chip to provide a 3D space and special performance on the microfluidic chip. The microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip promotes the development of basic research, including cell migration, mechanism exploration of neurodegenerative diseases, drug barrier permeability, SARS-CoV-2 pathology. This study summarizes the recent advances, challenges and future prospects of microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip, which can help to promote the development of personalized medicine and drug discovery.
Collapse
|
19
|
Yadav AS, Tran DT, Teo AJT, Dai Y, Galogahi FM, Ooi CH, Nguyen NT. Core-Shell Particles: From Fabrication Methods to Diverse Manipulation Techniques. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:497. [PMID: 36984904 PMCID: PMC10054063 DOI: 10.3390/mi14030497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Core-shell particles are micro- or nanoparticles with solid, liquid, or gas cores encapsulated by protective solid shells. The unique composition of core and shell materials imparts smart properties on the particles. Core-shell particles are gaining increasing attention as tuneable and versatile carriers for pharmaceutical and biomedical applications including targeted drug delivery, controlled drug release, and biosensing. This review provides an overview of fabrication methods for core-shell particles followed by a brief discussion of their application and a detailed analysis of their manipulation including assembly, sorting, and triggered release. We compile current methodologies employed for manipulation of core-shell particles and demonstrate how existing methods of assembly and sorting micro/nanospheres can be adopted or modified for core-shell particles. Various triggered release approaches for diagnostics and drug delivery are also discussed in detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ajeet Singh Yadav
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Du Tuan Tran
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Adrian J. T. Teo
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 637460, Singapore
| | - Yuchen Dai
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Fariba Malekpour Galogahi
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Chin Hong Ooi
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, 170 Kessels Road, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Yang X, Liu M, Li J, Chen Q, Liu Y, Yan L, Jiang X, Liu H. Controllable fabrication of millimeter-scale double droplets in co-flowing devices. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2023.130978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
|
21
|
Li B, Ma X, Cheng J, Tian T, Guo J, Wang Y, Pang L. Droplets microfluidics platform-A tool for single cell research. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1121870. [PMID: 37152651 PMCID: PMC10154550 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1121870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Cells are the most basic structural and functional units of living organisms. Studies of cell growth, differentiation, apoptosis, and cell-cell interactions can help scientists understand the mysteries of living systems. However, there is considerable heterogeneity among cells. Great differences between individuals can be found even within the same cell cluster. Cell heterogeneity can only be clearly expressed and distinguished at the level of single cells. The development of droplet microfluidics technology opens up a new chapter for single-cell analysis. Microfluidic chips can produce many nanoscale monodisperse droplets, which can be used as small isolated micro-laboratories for various high-throughput, precise single-cell analyses. Moreover, gel droplets with good biocompatibility can be used in single-cell cultures and coupled with biomolecules for various downstream analyses of cellular metabolites. The droplets are also maneuverable; through physical and chemical forces, droplets can be divided, fused, and sorted to realize single-cell screening and other related studies. This review describes the channel design, droplet generation, and control technology of droplet microfluidics and gives a detailed overview of the application of droplet microfluidics in single-cell culture, single-cell screening, single-cell detection, and other aspects. Moreover, we provide a recent review of the application of droplet microfluidics in tumor single-cell immunoassays, describe in detail the advantages of microfluidics in tumor research, and predict the development of droplet microfluidics at the single-cell level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bixuan Li
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Xi Ma
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jianghong Cheng
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Tian Tian
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Jiao Guo
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| | - Yang Wang
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Yang Wang,
| | - Long Pang
- Xi’an Key Laboratory of Pathogenic Microorganism and Tumor Immunity, Xi’an, China
- School of Basic Medicine, Xi’an Medical University, Xi’an, China
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Shin DS, Touani FK, Aboud DG, Kietzig AM, Lerouge S, Hoesli CA. Mammalian cell encapsulation in monodisperse chitosan beads using microchannel emulsification. Colloids Surf A Physicochem Eng Asp 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfa.2022.130807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
23
|
Rojek K, Ćwiklińska M, Kuczak J, Guzowski J. Microfluidic Formulation of Topological Hydrogels for Microtissue Engineering. Chem Rev 2022; 122:16839-16909. [PMID: 36108106 PMCID: PMC9706502 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidics has recently emerged as a powerful tool in generation of submillimeter-sized cell aggregates capable of performing tissue-specific functions, so-called microtissues, for applications in drug testing, regenerative medicine, and cell therapies. In this work, we review the most recent advances in the field, with particular focus on the formulation of cell-encapsulating microgels of small "dimensionalities": "0D" (particles), "1D" (fibers), "2D" (sheets), etc., and with nontrivial internal topologies, typically consisting of multiple compartments loaded with different types of cells and/or biopolymers. Such structures, which we refer to as topological hydrogels or topological microgels (examples including core-shell or Janus microbeads and microfibers, hollow or porous microstructures, or granular hydrogels) can be precisely tailored with high reproducibility and throughput by using microfluidics and used to provide controlled "initial conditions" for cell proliferation and maturation into functional tissue-like microstructures. Microfluidic methods of formulation of topological biomaterials have enabled significant progress in engineering of miniature tissues and organs, such as pancreas, liver, muscle, bone, heart, neural tissue, or vasculature, as well as in fabrication of tailored microenvironments for stem-cell expansion and differentiation, or in cancer modeling, including generation of vascularized tumors for personalized drug testing. We review the available microfluidic fabrication methods by exploiting various cross-linking mechanisms and various routes toward compartmentalization and critically discuss the available tissue-specific applications. Finally, we list the remaining challenges such as simplification of the microfluidic workflow for its widespread use in biomedical research, bench-to-bedside transition including production upscaling, further in vivo validation, generation of more precise organ-like models, as well as incorporation of induced pluripotent stem cells as a step toward clinical applications.
Collapse
|
24
|
Zhang Y, Yin P, Huang J, Yang L, Liu Z, Fu D, Hu Z, Huang W, Miao Y. Scalable and high-throughput production of an injectable platelet-rich plasma (PRP)/cell-laden microcarrier/hydrogel composite system for hair follicle tissue engineering. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:465. [PMID: 36329527 PMCID: PMC9632161 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01671-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Tissue engineering of hair follicles (HFs) has enormous potential for hair loss treatment. However, certain challenges remain, including weakening of the dermal papilla cell (DPC) viability, proliferation, and HF inducibility, as well as the associated inefficient and tedious preparation process required to generate extracellular matrix (ECM)-mimicking substrates for biomolecules or cells. Herein, we utilized gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) and chitosan hydrogels to prepare scalable, monodispersed, and diameter-controllable interpenetrating network GelMA/chitosan-microcarriers (IGMs) loaded with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and seeded with DPCs, on a high-throughput microfluidic chip. Results The ECM-mimicking hydrogels used for IGMs exhibited surface nano-topography and high porosity. Mass production of IGMs with distinct and precise diameters was achieved by adjusting the oil and aqueous phase flow rate ratio. Moreover, IGMs exhibited appropriate swelling and sustained growth factor release to facilitate a relatively long hair growth phase. DPCs seeded on PRP-loaded IGMs exhibited good viability (> 90%), adhesion, spreading, and proliferative properties (1.2-fold greater than control group). Importantly, PRP-loaded IGMs presented a higher hair inducibility of DPCs in vitro compared to the control and IGMs group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, DPC/PRP-laden IGMs were effectively mixed with epidermal cell (EPC)-laden GelMA to form a PRP-loaded DPC/EPC co-cultured hydrogel system (DECHS), which was subcutaneously injected into the hypodermis of nude mice. The PRP-loaded DECHS generated significantly more HFs (~ 35 per site) and novel vessels (~ 12 per site) than the other groups (p < 0.05 for each). Conclusion Taken together, these results illustrate that, based on high-throughput microfluidics, we obtained scalable and controllable production of ECM-mimicking IGMs and DECHS, which simulate an effective micro- and macro-environment to promote DPC bioactivity and hair regeneration, thus representing a potential new strategy for HF tissue engineering. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12951-022-01671-8.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yufan Zhang
- grid.416466.70000 0004 1757 959XDepartment of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University, 510515 Guangzhou, Guangdong Province China
| | - Panjing Yin
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Department of Joint Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Translation of Medical 3D Printing Application, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Biomechanics, Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junfei Huang
- grid.416466.70000 0004 1757 959XDepartment of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University, 510515 Guangzhou, Guangdong Province China
| | - Lunan Yang
- grid.416466.70000 0004 1757 959XDepartment of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University, 510515 Guangzhou, Guangdong Province China
| | - Zhen Liu
- grid.416466.70000 0004 1757 959XDepartment of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University, 510515 Guangzhou, Guangdong Province China
| | - Danlan Fu
- grid.416466.70000 0004 1757 959XDepartment of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University, 510515 Guangzhou, Guangdong Province China
| | - Zhiqi Hu
- grid.416466.70000 0004 1757 959XDepartment of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University, 510515 Guangzhou, Guangdong Province China
| | - Wenhua Huang
- grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Department of Joint Surgery, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Southern Medical University, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Guangdong Engineering Research Center for Translation of Medical 3D Printing Application, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Medical Biomechanics, Department of Human Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, China ,grid.284723.80000 0000 8877 7471Biomaterials Research Center, School of Biomedical Engineering, Southern Medical University, 510515 Guangzhou, PR China
| | - Yong Miao
- grid.416466.70000 0004 1757 959XDepartment of Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery, Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University, 510515 Guangzhou, Guangdong Province China
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Van Tran V, Wi E, Shin SY, Lee D, Kim YA, Ma BC, Chang M. Microgels based on 0D-3D carbon materials: Synthetic techniques, properties, applications, and challenges. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 307:135981. [PMID: 35964721 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microgels are three-dimensional (3D) colloidal hydrogel particles with outstanding features such as biocompatibility, good mechanical properties, tunable sizes from submicrometer to tens of nanometers, and large surface areas. Because of these unique qualities, microgels have been widely used in various applications. Carbon-based materials (CMs) with various dimensions (0-3D) have recently been investigated as promising candidates for the design and fabrication of microgels because of their large surface area, excellent conductivity, unique chemical stability, and low cost. Here, we provide a critical review of the specific characteristics of CMs that are being incorporated into microgels, as well as the state-of-the art applications of CM-microgels in pollutant adsorption and photodegradation, H2 evoluation, CO2 capture, soil conditioners, water retention, drug delivery, cell encapsulation, and tissue engineering. Advanced preparation techniques for CM-microgel systems are also summarized and discussed. Finally, challenges related to the low colloidal stability of CM-microgels and development strategies are examined. This review shows that CM-microgels have the potential to be widely used in various practical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vinh Van Tran
- Laser and Thermal Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Gachon University, Seongnam, 13120, South Korea
| | - Eunsol Wi
- Department of Polymer Engineering, Graduate School, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Seo Young Shin
- Department of Polymer Engineering, Graduate School, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Daeho Lee
- Laser and Thermal Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Gachon University, Seongnam, 13120, South Korea
| | - Yoong Ahm Kim
- Department of Polymer Engineering, Graduate School, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea; School of Polymer Science and Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea; Alan G. MacDiarmid Energy Research Institute, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea
| | - Byung Chol Ma
- School of Chemical Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea.
| | - Mincheol Chang
- Department of Polymer Engineering, Graduate School, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea; School of Polymer Science and Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea; Alan G. MacDiarmid Energy Research Institute, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Vuille-Dit-Bille E, Deshmukh DV, Connolly S, Heub S, Boder-Pasche S, Dual J, Tibbitt MW, Weder G. Tools for manipulation and positioning of microtissues. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4043-4066. [PMID: 36196619 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00559j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Complex three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models are emerging as a key technology to support research areas in personalised medicine, such as drug development and regenerative medicine. Tools for manipulation and positioning of microtissues play a crucial role in the microtissue life cycle from production to end-point analysis. The ability to precisely locate microtissues can improve the efficiency and reliability of processes and investigations by reducing experimental time and by providing more controlled parameters. To achieve this goal, standardisation of the techniques is of primary importance. Compared to microtissue production, the field of microtissue manipulation and positioning is still in its infancy but is gaining increasing attention in the last few years. Techniques to position microtissues have been classified into four main categories: hydrodynamic techniques, bioprinting, substrate modification, and non-contact active forces. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of the different tools for the manipulation and positioning of microtissues that have been reported to date. The working mechanism of each technique is described, and its merits and limitations are discussed. We conclude by evaluating the potential of the different approaches to support progress in personalised medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Vuille-Dit-Bille
- Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA, Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
- MicroBioRobotic Systems Laboratory, Institute of Mechanical Engineering, EPFL, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dhananjay V Deshmukh
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sinéad Connolly
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioelectronics, Institute for Biomedical Engineering, ETH Zürich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Heub
- Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA, Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| | | | - Jürg Dual
- Institute for Mechanical Systems, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Mark W Tibbitt
- Macromolecular Engineering Laboratory, Department of Mechanical and Process Engineering, ETH Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Gilles Weder
- Centre Suisse d'Electronique et de Microtechnique SA, Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Chachanidze R, Xie K, Lyu J, Jaeger M, Leonetti M. Breakups of Chitosan Microcapsules in Extensional Flow. J Colloid Interface Sci 2022; 629:445-454. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2022.08.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
|
28
|
Abstract
Recent years have seen substantial efforts aimed at constructing artificial cells from various molecular components with the aim of mimicking the processes, behaviours and architectures found in biological systems. Artificial cell development ultimately aims to produce model constructs that progress our understanding of biology, as well as forming the basis for functional bio-inspired devices that can be used in fields such as therapeutic delivery, biosensing, cell therapy and bioremediation. Typically, artificial cells rely on a bilayer membrane chassis and have fluid aqueous interiors to mimic biological cells. However, a desire to more accurately replicate the gel-like properties of intracellular and extracellular biological environments has driven increasing efforts to build cell mimics based on hydrogels. This has enabled researchers to exploit some of the unique functional properties of hydrogels that have seen them deployed in fields such as tissue engineering, biomaterials and drug delivery. In this Review, we explore how hydrogels can be leveraged in the context of artificial cell development. We also discuss how hydrogels can potentially be incorporated within the next generation of artificial cells to engineer improved biological mimics and functional microsystems.
Collapse
|
29
|
Rima XY, Zhang J, Nguyen LTH, Rajasuriyar A, Yoon MJ, Chiang CL, Walters N, Kwak KJ, Lee LJ, Reátegui E. Microfluidic harvesting of breast cancer tumor spheroid-derived extracellular vesicles from immobilized microgels for single-vesicle analysis. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:2502-2518. [PMID: 35579189 PMCID: PMC9383696 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc01053k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Investigating cellular and vesicular heterogeneity in breast cancer remains a challenge, which encourages the development of controllable in vitro systems that mimic the tumor microenvironment. Although three-dimensional cell culture better recapitulates the heterogeneity observed in tumor growth and extracellular vesicle (EV) biogenesis, the physiological relevance is often contrasted with the control offered by two-dimensional cell culture. Therefore, to challenge this misconception we developed a novel microfluidic system harboring highly tunable three-dimensional EV microbioreactors (EVμBRs) to model micrometastatic EV release in breast cancer while capitalizing on the convenient, low-volume, and sterile interface provided by microfluidics. The diameter and cellular occupancy of the EVμBRs could be precisely tailored to various configurations, supporting the formation of breast cancer tumor spheroids. To immobilize the EVμBRs within a microchannel and facilitate EV extraction, oxygen inhibition in free-radical polymerization was repurposed to rapidly generate two-layer hydrodynamic traps in situ using a digital-micromirror device (DMD)-based ultraviolet (UV) projection system. Breast cancer tumor spheroid-derived EVs were harvested with as little as 20 μL from the microfluidic system and quantified by single-EV immunofluorescence for CD63 and CD81. Despite the low-volume extraction, differences in biomarker expression and coexpression of the tetraspanins on single EVs were observed. Furthermore, the EVμBRs were capable of recapitulating heterogeneity at a cellular and vesicular degree, indicating the utility and robustness of the microfluidic system to investigate physiologically relevant EVs in breast cancer and other disease models.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xilal Y Rima
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Jingjing Zhang
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Luong T H Nguyen
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Aaron Rajasuriyar
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Min Jin Yoon
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Chi-Ling Chiang
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | - Nicole Walters
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
| | | | - L James Lee
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
- Spot Biosystems Ltd., Palo Alto, CA 94301, USA
| | - Eduardo Reátegui
- William G. Lowrie Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Tiemeijer BM, Tel J. Hydrogels for Single-Cell Microgel Production: Recent Advances and Applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:891461. [PMID: 35782502 PMCID: PMC9247248 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.891461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-cell techniques have become more and more incorporated in cell biological research over the past decades. Various approaches have been proposed to isolate, culture, sort, and analyze individual cells to understand cellular heterogeneity, which is at the foundation of every systematic cellular response in the human body. Microfluidics is undoubtedly the most suitable method of manipulating cells, due to its small scale, high degree of control, and gentle nature toward vulnerable cells. More specifically, the technique of microfluidic droplet production has proven to provide reproducible single-cell encapsulation with high throughput. Various in-droplet applications have been explored, ranging from immunoassays, cytotoxicity assays, and single-cell sequencing. All rely on the theoretically unlimited throughput that can be achieved and the monodispersity of each individual droplet. To make these platforms more suitable for adherent cells or to maintain spatial control after de-emulsification, hydrogels can be included during droplet production to obtain “microgels.” Over the past years, a multitude of research has focused on the possibilities these can provide. Also, as the technique matures, it is becoming clear that it will result in advantages over conventional droplet approaches. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview on how various types of hydrogels can be incorporated into different droplet-based approaches and provide novel and more robust analytic and screening applications. We will further focus on a wide range of recently published applications for microgels and how these can be applied in cell biological research at the single- to multicell scale.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B. M. Tiemeijer
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, TU Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, TU Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - J. Tel
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, TU Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, TU Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: J. Tel,
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Bouhlel W, Kui J, Bibette J, Bremond N. Encapsulation of Cells in a Collagen Matrix Surrounded by an Alginate Hydrogel Shell for 3D Cell Culture. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2022; 8:2700-2708. [PMID: 35609296 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.1c01486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Numerous techniques for mammalian cell culture have been developed to mimic the complex in vivo three-dimensional structure of tissues and organs. Among them, the sole use of proteins to create a matrix where cells are embedded already gives rise to self-organized multicellular assemblies. Loading cells in a controlled extracellular matrix along with cell culture and monitoring through a strategy that is compatible with pipetting tools would be beneficial for high throughput screening applications or simply for a standardized method. Here, we design submillimeter compartments having a thin alginate hydrogel shell and a core made of a collagen matrix where cells are embedded. The process, using a microfluidic device, is based on a high speed co-extrusion in air, leading to a compound jet whose fragmentation is controlled. The resulting core-shell liquid drops are then collected in a gelling bath that triggers a fast hardening of the shell and is followed by a slower self-assembly of collagen molecules into fibers. We show how to formulate the core solution in order to maintain cell viability at physiological conditions that otherwise induce tropocollagen molecules to self-assemble, while being able to prevent flow disturbances that are detrimental for this jetting method. Encapsulated Caco-2 cells, mainly used to model the intestinal barrier, proliferate and form a closed polarized epithelial cell monolayer where the apical membrane faces the continuous medium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wafa Bouhlel
- Laboratoire Colloïdes et Matériaux Divisés, CBI, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, CNRS, 10 rue Vauquelin, F-75005 Paris, France.,Sorbonne University, 4 place Jussieu, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Jessica Kui
- Laboratoire Colloïdes et Matériaux Divisés, CBI, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, CNRS, 10 rue Vauquelin, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Jérôme Bibette
- Laboratoire Colloïdes et Matériaux Divisés, CBI, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, CNRS, 10 rue Vauquelin, F-75005 Paris, France
| | - Nicolas Bremond
- Laboratoire Colloïdes et Matériaux Divisés, CBI, ESPCI Paris, Université PSL, CNRS, 10 rue Vauquelin, F-75005 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Abstract
Microfluidics has enabled a new era of cellular and molecular assays due to the small length scales, parallelization, and the modularity of various analysis and actuation functions. Droplet microfluidics, in particular, has been instrumental in providing new tools for biology with its ability to quickly and reproducibly generate drops that act as individual reactors. A notable beneficiary of this technology has been single-cell RNA sequencing, which has revealed new heterogeneities and interactions for the fundamental unit of life. However, viruses far surpass the diversity of cellular life, affect the dynamics of all ecosystems, and are a chronic source of global health crises. Despite their impact on the world, high-throughput and high-resolution viral profiling has been difficult, with conventional methods being limited to population-level averaging, large sample volumes, and few cultivable hosts. Consequently, most viruses have not been identified and studied. Droplet microfluidics holds the potential to address many of these limitations and offers new levels of sensitivity and throughput for virology. This Feature highlights recent efforts that have applied droplet microfluidics to the detection and study of viruses, including for diagnostics, virus-host interactions, and cell-independent virus assays. In combination with traditional virology methods, droplet microfluidics should prove a potent tool toward achieving a better understanding of the most abundant biological species on Earth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenyang Jing
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Hee-Sun Han
- Center for Biophysics and Quantitative Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States.,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, 1206 West Gregory Drive, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Chen Z, Kheiri S, Young EWK, Kumacheva E. Trends in Droplet Microfluidics: From Droplet Generation to Biomedical Applications. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:6233-6248. [PMID: 35561292 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c00491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Over the past decade, droplet microfluidics has attracted growing interest in biology, medicine, and engineering. In this feature article, we review the advances in droplet microfluidics, primarily focusing on the research conducted by our group. Starting from the introduction to the mechanisms of microfluidic droplet formation and the strategies for cell encapsulation in droplets, we then focus on droplet transformation into microgels. Furthermore, we review three biomedical applications of droplet microfluidics, that is, 3D cell culture, single-cell analysis, and in vitro organ and disease modeling. We conclude with our perspective on future directions in the development of droplet microfluidics for biomedical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhengkun Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 Saint George Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 3H6
| | - Sina Kheiri
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 3G8
| | - Edmond W K Young
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 5 King's College Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M5S 3G8
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Roseburgh Building, 164 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 3G9
| | - Eugenia Kumacheva
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 Saint George Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 3H6
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Roseburgh Building, 164 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 3G9
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Applied Chemistry, University of Toronto, 200 College Street, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5S 3E5
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wei C, Yu C, Li S, Li T, Meng J, Li J. Easy-to-Operate Co-Flow Step Emulsification Device for High-Throughput Three-Dimensional Cell Culture. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12050350. [PMID: 35624651 PMCID: PMC9138713 DOI: 10.3390/bios12050350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cell culture plays an essential role in tissue engineering and high-throughput drug screening. Compared with two-dimensional (2D) in vitro culture, three-dimensional (3D) in vitro culture can mimic cells in vivo more accurately, including complex cellular organizations, heterogeneity, and cell–extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions. This article presents a droplet-based microfluidic chip that integrates cell distribution, 3D in vitro cell culture, and in situ cell monitoring in a single device. Using the microfluidic “co-flow step emulsification” approach, we have successfully prepared close-packed droplet arrays with an ultra-high-volume fraction (72%) which can prevent cells from adhering to the chip surface so as to achieve a 3D cell culture and make scalable and high-throughput cell culture possible. The proposed device could produce droplets from 55.29 ± 1.52 to 95.64 ± 3.35 μm, enabling the diverse encapsulation of cells of different sizes and quantities. Furthermore, the cost for each microfluidic CFSE chip is approximately USD 3, making it a low-cost approach for 3D cell culture. The proposed device is successfully applied in the 3D culture of saccharomyces cerevisiae cells with an occurrence rate for proliferation of 80.34 ± 3.77%. With low-cost, easy-to-operate, high-throughput, and miniaturization characteristics, the proposed device meets the requirements for 3D in vitro cell culture and is expected to be applied in biological fields such as drug toxicology and pharmacokinetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chunyang Wei
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Robotic Sensing and Human-Robot Interactions, School of Mechanical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300132, China; (C.W.); (S.L.)
| | - Chengzhuang Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China; (C.Y.); (J.M.)
| | - Shanshan Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Robotic Sensing and Human-Robot Interactions, School of Mechanical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300132, China; (C.W.); (S.L.)
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China; (C.Y.); (J.M.)
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Advanced Food Manufacturing Equipment and Technology, Jiangnan University, Wuxi 214122, China
| | - Tiejun Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Robotic Sensing and Human-Robot Interactions, School of Mechanical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300132, China; (C.W.); (S.L.)
- Correspondence: (T.L.); (J.L.); Tel.: +86-22-60202605 (T.L.); +86-22-60201070 (J.L.)
| | - Jiyu Meng
- State Key Laboratory of Reliability and Intelligence of Electrical Equipment, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300130, China; (C.Y.); (J.M.)
| | - Junwei Li
- Institute of Biophysics, School of Health Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Tianjin 300401, China
- Department of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering, Hebei University of Technology, Langfang 065000, China
- Correspondence: (T.L.); (J.L.); Tel.: +86-22-60202605 (T.L.); +86-22-60201070 (J.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Nadine S, Chung A, Diltemiz SE, Yasuda B, Lee C, Hosseini V, Karamikamkar S, de Barros NR, Mandal K, Advani S, Zamanian BB, Mecwan M, Zhu Y, Mofidfar M, Zare MR, Mano J, Dokmeci MR, Alambeigi F, Ahadian S. Advances in microfabrication technologies in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Artif Organs 2022; 46:E211-E243. [PMID: 35349178 DOI: 10.1111/aor.14232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tissue engineering provides various strategies to fabricate an appropriate microenvironment to support the repair and regeneration of lost or damaged tissues. In this matter, several technologies have been implemented to construct close-to-native three-dimensional structures at numerous physiological scales, which are essential to confer the functional characteristics of living tissues. METHODS In this article, we review a variety of microfabrication technologies that are currently utilized for several tissue engineering applications, such as soft lithography, microneedles, templated and self-assembly of microstructures, microfluidics, fiber spinning, and bioprinting. RESULTS These technologies have considerably helped us to precisely manipulate cells or cellular constructs for the fabrication of biomimetic tissues and organs. Although currently available tissues still lack some crucial functionalities, including vascular networks, innervation, and lymphatic system, microfabrication strategies are being proposed to overcome these issues. Moreover, the microfabrication techniques that have progressed to the preclinical stage are also discussed. CONCLUSIONS This article aims to highlight the advantages and drawbacks of each technique and areas of further research for a more comprehensive and evolving understanding of microfabrication techniques in terms of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sara Nadine
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA.,CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Ada Chung
- Department of Psychology, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Brooke Yasuda
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Psychology, University of California-Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Charles Lee
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA.,Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA.,Station 1, Lawrence, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Vahid Hosseini
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Solmaz Karamikamkar
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Kalpana Mandal
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Shailesh Advani
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Marvin Mecwan
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Yangzhi Zhu
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Mohammad Mofidfar
- Department of Chemistry, Stanford University, Palo Alto, California, USA
| | | | - João Mano
- CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mehmet Remzi Dokmeci
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Farshid Alambeigi
- Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Samad Ahadian
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Wang W, Wang X, Li L, Liu Y. Anti-Inflammatory and Repairing Effects of Mesoporous Silica-Loaded Metronidazole Composite Hydrogel on Human Dental Pulp Cells. JOURNAL OF HEALTHCARE ENGINEERING 2022; 2022:6774075. [PMID: 35368951 PMCID: PMC8967504 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6774075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In order to test an effective biopolymer scaffold in promoting the growth of human dental pulp stem cells (HDPSCs), mesoporous silica @ hydrogel (MSN@Gel) nanocomposites are invented as a new type of biopolymer scaffold for HDPSCs proliferation in this paper. The expression levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), dentin matrix protein 1 (DMP1), and dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) are significantly increased in the MSN@Gel group so as to better repair damaged dentin. In order to inhibit the proliferation of bacteria in the dental pulp, metronidazole (MTR) is loaded into MSN. The study found that MSN could effectively prolong the half-life of MTR by 1.75 times, and the viability of HDPSCs could be better maintained in the MSN-MTR@Gel group so as to better promote its proliferation to repair pulpitis. However, with the increase of the MTR concentration, its proliferation effect on HDPSCs decreased gradually, and the proliferation effect is the best in 10 μmol/L. Therefore, the MSN-MTR@Gel scaffold is expected to become an effective method for pulpitis therapy in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- Oral Medical Center, Shenzhen People's Hospital (The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University, The First Affiliated Hospital, Southern University of Science and Technology), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Xixi Wang
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211100, China
| | - Luyang Li
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211100, China
| | - Ying Liu
- Department of Stomatology, The Affiliated Jiangning Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 211100, China
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Jiang B, White A, Ou W, Van Belleghem S, Stewart S, Shamul JG, Rahaman SO, Fisher JP, He X. Noncovalent reversible binding-enabled facile fabrication of leak-free PDMS microfluidic devices without plasma treatment for convenient cell loading and retrieval. Bioact Mater 2022; 16:346-358. [PMID: 35386332 PMCID: PMC8965690 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioactmat.2022.02.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The conventional approach for fabricating polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic devices is a lengthy and inconvenient procedure and may require a clean-room microfabrication facility often not readily available. Furthermore, living cells can't survive the oxygen-plasma and high-temperature-baking treatments required for covalent bonding to assemble multiple PDMS parts into a leak-free device, and it is difficult to disassemble the devices because of the irreversible covalent bonding. As a result, seeding/loading cells into and retrieving cells from the devices are challenging. Here, we discovered that decreasing the curing agent for crosslinking the PDMS prepolymer increases the noncovalent binding energy of the resultant PDMS surfaces without plasma or any other treatment. This enables convenient fabrication of leak-free microfluidic devices by noncovalent binding for various biomedical applications that require high pressure/flow rates and/or long-term cell culture, by simply hand-pressing the PDMS parts without plasma or any other treatment to bind/assemble. With this method, multiple types of cells can be conveniently loaded into specific areas of the PDMS parts before assembly and due to the reversible nature of the noncovalent bonding, the assembled device can be easily disassembled by hand peeling for retrieving cells. Combining with 3D printers that are widely available for making masters to eliminate the need of photolithography, this facile yet rigorous fabrication approach is much faster and more convenient for making PDMS microfluidic devices than the conventional oxygen plasma-baking-based irreversible covalent bonding method. The stability of noncovalent PDMS-PDMS binding is dependent on the binding energy instead of the binding strength. The noncovalent binding of a special formulation of PDMS is sufficient for reversible assembly of leak-free microfluidic devices. The noncovalent binding method enables loading multiple types of cells into PDMS parts before assembling into the final device. The PDMS device can be easily dissembled due to the reversible nature of the noncovalent binding for retrieving cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bin Jiang
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Alisa White
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Wenquan Ou
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Sarah Van Belleghem
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Samantha Stewart
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - James G. Shamul
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Shaik O. Rahaman
- Department of Nutrition and Food Science, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - John P. Fisher
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
| | - Xiaoming He
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA
- Marlene and Stewart Greenebaum Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Corresponding author. Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, 20742, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Abstract
Cell manipulation in droplets has emerged as one of the great successes of microfluidic technologies, with the development of single-cell screening. However, the droplet format has also served to go beyond single-cell studies, namely by considering the interactions between different cells or between cells and their physical or chemical environment. These studies pose specific challenges linked to the need for long-term culture of adherent cells or the diverse types of measurements associated with complex biological phenomena. Here we review the emergence of droplet microfluidic methods for culturing cells and studying their interactions. We begin by characterizing the quantitative aspects that determine the ability to encapsulate cells, transport molecules, and provide sufficient nutrients within the droplets. This is followed by an evaluation of the biological constraints such as the control of the biochemical environment and promoting the anchorage of adherent cells. This first part ends with a description of measurement methods that have been developed. The second part of the manuscript focuses on applications of these technologies for cancer studies, immunology, and stem cells while paying special attention to the biological relevance of the cellular assays and providing guidelines on improving this relevance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Sart
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Gustave Ronteix
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Shreyansh Jain
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Gabriel Amselem
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Charles N Baroud
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Siemenn AE, Shaulsky E, Beveridge M, Buonassisi T, Hashmi SM, Drori I. A Machine Learning and Computer Vision Approach to Rapidly Optimize Multiscale Droplet Generation. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2022; 14:4668-4679. [PMID: 35026110 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c19276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Generating droplets from a continuous stream of fluid requires precise tuning of a device to find optimized control parameter conditions. It is analytically intractable to compute the necessary control parameter values of a droplet-generating device that produces optimized droplets. Furthermore, as the length scale of the fluid flow changes, the formation physics and optimized conditions that induce flow decomposition into droplets also change. Hence, a single proportional integral derivative controller is too inflexible to optimize devices of different length scales or different control parameters, while classification machine learning techniques take days to train and require millions of droplet images. Therefore, the question is posed, can a single method be created that universally optimizes multiple length-scale droplets using only a few data points and is faster than previous approaches? In this paper, a Bayesian optimization and computer vision feedback loop is designed to quickly and reliably discover the control parameter values that generate optimized droplets within different length-scale devices. This method is demonstrated to converge on optimum parameter values using 60 images in only 2.3 h, 30× faster than previous approaches. Model implementation is demonstrated for two different length-scale devices: a milliscale inkjet device and a microfluidics device.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander E Siemenn
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Evyatar Shaulsky
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Matthew Beveridge
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Tonio Buonassisi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Sara M Hashmi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
| | - Iddo Drori
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Kheiri S, Kumacheva E, Young EWK. Computational Modelling and Big Data Analysis of Flow and Drug Transport in Microfluidic Systems: A Spheroid-on-a-Chip Study. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:781566. [PMID: 34888303 PMCID: PMC8650096 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.781566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidic tumour spheroid-on-a-chip platforms enable control of spheroid size and their microenvironment and offer the capability of high-throughput drug screening, but drug supply to spheroids is a complex process that depends on a combination of mechanical, biochemical, and biophysical factors. To account for these coupled effects, many microfluidic device designs and operating conditions must be considered and optimized in a time- and labour-intensive trial-and-error process. Computational modelling facilitates a systematic exploration of a large design parameter space via in silico simulations, but the majority of in silico models apply only a small set of conditions or parametric levels. Novel approaches to computational modelling are needed to explore large parameter spaces and accelerate the optimization of spheroid-on-a-chip and other organ-on-a-chip designs. Here, we report an efficient computational approach for simulating fluid flow and transport of drugs in a high-throughput arrayed cancer spheroid-on-a-chip platform. Our strategy combines four key factors: i) governing physical equations; ii) parametric sweeping; iii) parallel computing; and iv) extensive dataset analysis, thereby enabling a complete “full-factorial” exploration of the design parameter space in combinatorial fashion. The simulations were conducted in a time-efficient manner without requiring massive computational time. As a case study, we simulated >15,000 microfluidic device designs and flow conditions for a representative multicellular spheroids-on-a-chip arrayed device, thus acquiring a single dataset consisting of ∼10 billion datapoints in ∼95 GBs. To validate our computational model, we performed physical experiments in a representative spheroid-on-a-chip device that showed excellent agreement between experimental and simulated data. This study offers a computational strategy to accelerate the optimization of microfluidic device designs and provide insight on the flow and drug transport in spheroid-on-a-chip and other biomicrofluidic platforms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sina Kheiri
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Eugenia Kumacheva
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Edmond W K Young
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Yang L, Liu Y, Sun L, Zhao C, Chen G, Zhao Y. Biomass Microcapsules with Stem Cell Encapsulation for Bone Repair. NANO-MICRO LETTERS 2021; 14:4. [PMID: 34859316 PMCID: PMC8639896 DOI: 10.1007/s40820-021-00747-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Bone defects caused by trauma, tumor, or osteoarthritis remain challenging due to the lack of effective treatments in clinic. Stem cell transplantation has emerged as an alternative approach for bone repair and attracted widespread attention owing to its excellent biological activities and therapy effect. The attempts to develop this therapeutic approach focus on the generation of effective cell delivery vehicles, since the shortcomings of direct injection of stem cells into target tissues. Here, we developed a novel core-shell microcapsule with a stem cell-laden core and a biomass shell by using all-aqueous phase microfluidic electrospray technology. The designed core-shell microcapsules showed a high cell viability during the culture procedure. In addition, the animal experiments exhibited that stem cell-laden core-shell microcapsules have good biocompatibility and therapeutic effect for bone defects. This study indicated that the core-shell biomass microcapsules generated by microfluidic electrospray have promising potential in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Yang
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
- Wenzhou Institute, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wenzhou, 325001, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
- Oujiang Laboratory (Zhejiang Lab for Regenerative Medicine, Vision and Brain Health), Wenzhou, 325001, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuxiao Liu
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, People's Republic of China
| | - Lingyu Sun
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, People's Republic of China
| | - Cheng Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
| | - Guopu Chen
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuanjin Zhao
- Department of Rheumatology and Immunology, The Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, 210008, People's Republic of China.
- State Key Laboratory of Bioelectronics, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 210096, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Hayaei Tehrani RS, Hajari MA, Ghorbaninejad Z, Esfandiari F. Droplet microfluidic devices for organized stem cell differentiation into germ cells: capabilities and challenges. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:1245-1271. [PMID: 35059040 PMCID: PMC8724463 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00907-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Demystifying the mechanisms that underlie germline development and gamete production is critical for expanding advanced therapies for infertile couples who cannot benefit from current infertility treatments. However, the low number of germ cells, particularly in the early stages of development, represents a serious challenge in obtaining sufficient materials required for research purposes. In this regard, pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) have provided an opportunity for producing an unlimited source of germ cells in vitro. Achieving this ambition is highly dependent on accurate stem cell niche reconstitution which is achievable through applying advanced cell engineering approaches. Recently, hydrogel microparticles (HMPs), as either microcarriers or microcapsules, have shown promising potential in providing an excellent 3-dimensional (3D) biomimetic microenvironment alongside the systematic bioactive agent delivery. In this review, recent studies of utilizing various HMP-based cell engineering strategies for appropriate niche reconstitution and efficient in vitro differentiation are highlighted with a special focus on the capabilities of droplet-based microfluidic (DBM) technology. We believe that a deep understanding of the current limitations and potentials of the DBM systems in integration with stem cell biology provides a bright future for germ cell research. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12551-021-00907-5.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reyhaneh Sadat Hayaei Tehrani
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Hajari
- Department of Cell Engineering, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zeynab Ghorbaninejad
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Esfandiari
- Department of Stem Cells and Developmental Biology, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, ACECR, 16635-148, 1665659911 Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Amirifar L, Besanjideh M, Nasiri R, Shamloo A, Nasrollahi F, de Barros NR, Davoodi E, Erdem A, Mahmoodi M, Hosseini V, Montazerian H, Jahangiry J, Darabi MA, Haghniaz R, Dokmeci MR, Annabi N, Ahadian S, Khademhosseini A. Droplet-based microfluidics in biomedical applications. Biofabrication 2021; 14. [PMID: 34781274 DOI: 10.1088/1758-5090/ac39a9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Droplet-based microfluidic systems have been employed to manipulate discrete fluid volumes with immiscible phases. Creating the fluid droplets at microscale has led to a paradigm shift in mixing, sorting, encapsulation, sensing, and designing high throughput devices for biomedical applications. Droplet microfluidics has opened many opportunities in microparticle synthesis, molecular detection, diagnostics, drug delivery, and cell biology. In the present review, we first introduce standard methods for droplet generation (i.e., passive and active methods) and discuss the latest examples of emulsification and particle synthesis approaches enabled by microfluidic platforms. Then, the applications of droplet-based microfluidics in different biomedical applications are detailed. Finally, a general overview of the latest trends along with the perspectives and future potentials in the field are provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Leyla Amirifar
- Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Iran, Tehran, 11365-11155, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Mohsen Besanjideh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Tehran, 11365-11155, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Rohollah Nasiri
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Tehran, 11365-11155, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | - Amir Shamloo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Sharif University of Technology, Tehran, Tehran, 11365-11155, Iran (the Islamic Republic of)
| | | | - Natan Roberto de Barros
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90024, UNITED STATES
| | - Elham Davoodi
- Bioengineering, University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90095, UNITED STATES
| | - Ahmet Erdem
- Bioengineering, University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90095, UNITED STATES
| | | | - Vahid Hosseini
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90024, UNITED STATES
| | - Hossein Montazerian
- Bioengineering, University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90095, UNITED STATES
| | - Jamileh Jahangiry
- University of California - Los Angeles, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90095, UNITED STATES
| | | | - Reihaneh Haghniaz
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90024, UNITED STATES
| | - Mehmet R Dokmeci
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90024, UNITED STATES
| | - Nasim Annabi
- Chemical Engineering, UCLA, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, 90095, UNITED STATES
| | - Samad Ahadian
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90024, UNITED STATES
| | - Ali Khademhosseini
- Terasaki Institute for Biomedical Innovation (TIBI), Los Angeles, Los Angeles, 90024, UNITED STATES
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Zhang P, Shao N, Qin L. Recent Advances in Microfluidic Platforms for Programming Cell-Based Living Materials. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2005944. [PMID: 34270839 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202005944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Cell-based living materials, including single cells, cell-laden fibers, cell sheets, organoids, and organs, have attracted intensive interests owing to their widespread applications in cancer therapy, regenerative medicine, drug development, and so on. Significant progress in materials, microfabrication, and cell biology have promoted the development of numerous promising microfluidic platforms for programming these cell-based living materials with a high-throughput, scalable, and efficient manner. In this review, the recent progress of novel microfluidic platforms for programming cell-based living materials is presented. First, the unique features, categories, and materials and related fabrication methods of microfluidic platforms are briefly introduced. From the viewpoint of the design principles of the microfluidic platforms, the recent significant advances of programming single cells, cell-laden fibers, cell sheets, organoids, and organs in turns are then highlighted. Last, by providing personal perspectives on challenges and future trends, this review aims to motivate researchers from the fields of materials and engineering to work together with biologists and physicians to promote the development of cell-based living materials for human healthcare-related applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pengchao Zhang
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Ning Shao
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Lidong Qin
- Department of Nanomedicine, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Tiemeijer BM, Sweep MWD, Sleeboom JJF, Steps KJ, van Sprang JF, De Almeida P, Hammink R, Kouwer PHJ, Smits AIPM, Tel J. Probing Single-Cell Macrophage Polarization and Heterogeneity Using Thermo-Reversible Hydrogels in Droplet-Based Microfluidics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2021; 9:715408. [PMID: 34722475 PMCID: PMC8552120 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2021.715408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 09/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Human immune cells intrinsically exist as heterogenous populations. To understand cellular heterogeneity, both cell culture and analysis should be executed with single-cell resolution to eliminate juxtacrine and paracrine interactions, as these can lead to a homogenized cell response, obscuring unique cellular behavior. Droplet microfluidics has emerged as a potent tool to culture and stimulate single cells at high throughput. However, when studying adherent cells at single-cell level, it is imperative to provide a substrate for the cells to adhere to, as suspension culture conditions can negatively affect biological function and behavior. Therefore, we combined a droplet-based microfluidic platform with a thermo-reversible polyisocyanide (PIC) hydrogel, which allowed for robust droplet formation at low temperatures, whilst ensuring catalyzer-free droplet gelation and easy cell recovery after culture for downstream analysis. With this approach, we probed the heterogeneity of highly adherent human macrophages under both pro-inflammatory M1 and anti-inflammatory M2 polarization conditions. We showed that co-encapsulation of multiple cells enhanced cell polarization compared to single cells, indicating that cellular communication is a potent driver of macrophage polarization. Additionally, we highlight that culturing single macrophages in PIC hydrogel droplets displayed higher cell viability and enhanced M2 polarization compared to single macrophages cultured in suspension. Remarkably, combining phenotypical and functional analysis on single cultured macrophages revealed a subset of cells in a persistent M1 state, which were undetectable in conventional bulk cultures. Taken together, combining droplet-based microfluidics with hydrogels is a versatile and powerful tool to study the biological function of adherent cell types at single-cell resolution with high throughput.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B. M. Tiemeijer
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - M. W. D. Sweep
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - J. J. F. Sleeboom
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Microsystems, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Laboratory of Soft Tissue Engineering and Biomechanics, Department Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - K. J. Steps
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - J. F. van Sprang
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Laboratory of Soft Tissue Engineering and Biomechanics, Department Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - P. De Almeida
- Department of System Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - R. Hammink
- Department of Tumor Immunology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - P. H. J. Kouwer
- Department of System Chemistry, Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - A. I. P. M. Smits
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Laboratory of Soft Tissue Engineering and Biomechanics, Department Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - J. Tel
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Argentiere S, Siciliano PA, Blasi L. How Microgels Can Improve the Impact of Organ-on-Chip and Microfluidic Devices for 3D Culture: Compartmentalization, Single Cell Encapsulation and Control on Cell Fate. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:3216. [PMID: 34641032 PMCID: PMC8512905 DOI: 10.3390/polym13193216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Organ-on-chip (OOC) devices represent the new frontier in biomedical research to produce micro-organoids and tissues for drug testing and regenerative medicine. The development of such miniaturized models requires the 3D culture of multiple cell types in a highly controlled microenvironment, opening new challenges in reproducing the extracellular matrix (ECM) experienced by cells in vivo. In this regard, cell-laden microgels (CLMs) represent a promising tool for 3D cell culturing and on-chip generation of micro-organs. The engineering of hydrogel matrix with properly balanced biochemical and biophysical cues enables the formation of tunable 3D cellular microenvironments and long-term in vitro cultures. This focused review provides an overview of the most recent applications of CLMs in microfluidic devices for organoids formation, highlighting microgels' roles in OOC development as well as insights into future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Blasi
- Institute for Microelectronics and Microsystems IMM-CNR, Via Monteroni, University Campus, 73100 Lecce, Italy; (S.A.); (P.A.S.)
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Wu Z, Chen B, Wu Y, Xia Y, Chen H, Gong Z, Hu H, Ding Z, Guo S. Scaffold-free generation of heterotypic cell spheroids using acoustofluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:3498-3508. [PMID: 34346468 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00496d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
3D cell cultures such as cell spheroids are widely used for tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and translational medicine, but challenges remain in recapitulating the architectural complexity and spatiotemporal heterogeneity of tissues. Thus, we developed a scaffold-free and versatile acoustofluidic device to fabricate heterotypic cell spheroids with complexity over cell architectures and components. By varying the concentrations of cell suspension, we can precisely control the size of spheroids aggregated by a contact-free acoustic radiation force. By tuning the cell components including tumor cells, fibroblasts, and endothelial cells, heterotypic spheroids were controllably fabricated. These heterotypic spheroids can be used as a proof-of concept to model the spatial organization of tumor tissues. We demonstrated that the assembled components can self-assemble into layered structures as instructed by their cadherin expression. Finally, we demonstrated the acoustic assembly of mouse mammary gland components into spheroids and observed their maturation in culture. To conclude, we developed an acoustofluidic platform to fabricate complex spheroids with multiple components. We envision that this platform will pave the way for the high accuracy of spheroid fabrication and offer broad applications in numerous areas, such as tumor research, tissue engineering, developmental biology, and drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhuhao Wu
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Bin Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Guangzhou First People's Hospital, School of Medicine, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510180, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Wu
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yu Xia
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hui Chen
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhiyi Gong
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Hang Hu
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhao Ding
- Department of Colorectal and Anal Surgery, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430072, People's Republic of China.
| | - Shishang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Artificial Micro- and Nano-structures of Ministry of Education, School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430072, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Eqbal MD, Naaz F, Sharma K, Gundabala V. Microfluidics-based generation of cell encapsulated microbeads in the presence of electric fields and spatio-temporal viability studies. Colloids Surf B Biointerfaces 2021; 208:112065. [PMID: 34478958 DOI: 10.1016/j.colsurfb.2021.112065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2021] [Revised: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidics based techniques for generation of cell-laden microbeads are emerging as an attractive route to 3D cell encapsulation due to the precise control provided by microfluidics. However, existing microfluidics based cell encapsulation methods are restricted to 2D planar devices and use of passive methods for droplet generation. In this work, we report the development of a 3D glass-PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) hybrid device for complete on-chip generation of cell-laden alginate beads in the presence of electric fields. The 3D hybrid device allows application of electric fields for active control of droplet (sodium alginate) size without the need for electrode patterning or liquid electrodes. Chemical gelation is achieved through on-chip coalescence of sodium alginate droplets and calcium chloride plugs, generated using coflow and T-junction geometries respectively. Using this approach, we successfully encapsulate E. coli cells (with viability ∼90 %) into alginate microbeads and perform comprehensive spatio-temporal growth and viability studies. The active control of droplet size coupled with complete on-chip gelation demonstrated here is a promising technology for cell encapsulation with applications such as cell therapy, organ repair, biocatalysis, and microbial fuel cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Md Danish Eqbal
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, 400076, India
| | - Farha Naaz
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, 400076, India
| | - Kajal Sharma
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, 400076, India
| | - Venkat Gundabala
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, Powai, Mumbai, 400076, India.
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Aladese AD, Jeong HH. Recent Developments in 3D Printing of Droplet-Based Microfluidics. BIOCHIP JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13206-021-00032-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
|
50
|
Rapid construct superhydrophobic microcracks on the open-surface platform for droplet manipulations. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14915. [PMID: 34290353 PMCID: PMC8295315 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94484-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Droplet-based transport driven by surface tension has been explored as an automated pumping source for several biomedical applications. This paper presented a simple and fast superhydrophobic modify and patterning approach to fabricate various open-surface platforms to manipulate droplets to achieve transport, mixing, concentration, and rebounding control. Several commercial reagents were tested in our approach, and the Glaco reagent was selected to create a superhydrophobic layer; laser cutters are utilized to scan on these superhydrophobic surface to create gradient hydrophilic micro-patterns. Implementing back-and-forth vibrations on the predetermined parallel patterns, droplets can be transported and mixed successfully. Colorimetry of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) mixing with substrates also reduced the reaction time by more than 5-times with the help of superhydrophobic patterned chips. Besides, patterned superhydrophobic chips can significantly improve the sensitivity of colorimetric glucose-sensing by more than 10 times. Moreover, all bioassays were distributed homogeneously within the region of hydrophilic micropatterns without the coffee-ring effect. In addition, to discuss further applications of the surface wettability, the way of controlling the droplet impacting and rebounding phenomenon was also demonstrated. This work reports a rapid approach to modify and patterning superhydrophobic films to perform droplet-based manipulations with a lower technical barrier, higher efficiency, and easier operation. It holds the potential to broaden the applications of open microfluidics in the future.
Collapse
|