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Gonçalves RC, Oliveira MB, Mano JF. Exploring the potential of all-aqueous immiscible systems for preparing complex biomaterials and cellular constructs. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2024. [PMID: 39010747 DOI: 10.1039/d4mh00431k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
All-aqueous immiscible systems derived from liquid-liquid phase separation of incompatible hydrophilic agents such as polymers and salts have found increasing interest in the biomedical and tissue engineering fields in the last few years. The unique characteristics of aqueous interfaces, namely their low interfacial tension and elevated permeability, as well as the non-toxic environment and high water content of the immiscible phases, confer to these systems optimal qualities for the development of biomaterials such as hydrogels and soft membranes, as well as for the preparation of in vitro tissues derived from cellular assembly. Here, we overview the main properties of these systems and present a critical review of recent strategies that have been used for the development of biomaterials with increased levels of complexity using all-aqueous immiscible phases and interfaces, and their potential as cell-confining environments for micropatterning approaches and the bioengineering of cell-rich structures. Importantly, due to the relatively recent emergence of these areas, several key design considerations are presented, in order to guide researchers in the field. Finally, the main present challenges, future directions, and adaptability to develop advanced materials with increased biomimicry and new potential applications are briefly evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel C Gonçalves
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - Mariana B Oliveira
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
| | - João F Mano
- Department of Chemistry, CICECO - Aveiro Institute of Materials, University of Aveiro, Campus Universitário de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal.
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Ren L, Liu S, Zhong J, Zhang L. Revolutionizing targeting precision: microfluidics-enabled smart microcapsules for tailored delivery and controlled release. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1367-1393. [PMID: 38314845 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00835e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
As promising delivery systems, smart microcapsules have garnered significant attention owing to their targeted delivery loaded with diverse active materials. By precisely manipulating fluids on the micrometer scale, microfluidic has emerged as a powerful tool for tailoring delivery systems based on potential applications. The desirable characteristics of smart microcapsules are associated with encapsulation capacity, targeted delivery capability, and controlled release of encapsulants. In this review, we briefly describe the principles of droplet-based microfluidics for smart microcapsules. Subsequently, we summarize smart microcapsules as delivery systems for efficient encapsulation and focus on target delivery patterns, including passive targets, active targets, and microfluidics-assisted targets. Additionally, based on release mechanisms, we review controlled release modes adjusted by smart membranes and on/off gates. Finally, we discuss existing challenges and potential implications associated with smart microcapsules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Ren
- School of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, Shandong, China.
| | - Shuang Liu
- School of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, Shandong, China.
| | - Junjie Zhong
- School of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, Shandong, China.
| | - Liyuan Zhang
- School of Petroleum Engineering, China University of Petroleum (East China), Qingdao, Shandong, China.
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Li J, Parakhonskiy BV, Skirtach AG. A decade of developing applications exploiting the properties of polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules. Chem Commun (Camb) 2023; 59:807-835. [PMID: 36472384 DOI: 10.1039/d2cc04806j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Transferring the layer-by-layer (LbL) coating approach from planar surfaces to spherical templates and subsequently dissolving these templates leads to the fabrication of polyelectrolyte multilayer capsules. The versatility of the coatings of capsules and their flexibility upon bringing in virtually any material into the coatings has quickly drawn substantial attention. Here, we provide an overview of the main developments in this field, highlighting the trends in the last decade. In the beginning, various methods of encapsulation and release are discussed followed by a broad range of applications, which were developed and explored. We also outline the current trends, where the range of applications is continuing to grow, including addition of whole new and different application areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Li
- Nano-Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Bogdan V Parakhonskiy
- Nano-Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Andre G Skirtach
- Nano-Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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Jeyhani M, Navi M, Chan KWY, Kieda J, Tsai SSH. Water-in-water droplet microfluidics: A design manual. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:061503. [PMID: 36406338 PMCID: PMC9674389 DOI: 10.1063/5.0119316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Droplet microfluidics is utilized in a wide range of applications in biomedicine and biology. Applications include rapid biochemical analysis, materials generation, biochemical assays, and point-of-care medicine. The integration of aqueous two-phase systems (ATPSs) into droplet microfluidic platforms has potential utility in oil-free biological and biomedical applications, namely, reducing cytotoxicity and preserving the native form and function of costly biomolecular reagents. In this review, we present a design manual for the chemist, biologist, and engineer to design experiments in the context of their biological applications using all-in-water droplet microfluidic systems. We describe the studies achievable using these systems and the corresponding fabrication and stabilization methods. With this information, readers may apply the fundamental principles and recent advancements in ATPS droplet microfluidics to their research. Finally, we propose a development roadmap of opportunities to utilize ATPS droplet microfluidics in applications that remain underexplored.
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Recent Advances in Drug Delivery System Fabricated by Microfluidics for Disease Therapy. Bioengineering (Basel) 2022; 9:bioengineering9110625. [DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering9110625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional drug therapy faces challenges such as drug distribution throughout the body, rapid degradation and excretion, and extensive adverse reactions. In contrast, micro/nanoparticles can controllably deliver drugs to target sites to improve drug efficacy. Unlike traditional large-scale synthetic systems, microfluidics allows manipulation of fluids at the microscale and shows great potential in drug delivery and precision medicine. Well-designed microfluidic devices have been used to fabricate multifunctional drug carriers using stimuli-responsive materials. In this review, we first introduce the selection of materials and processing techniques for microfluidic devices. Then, various well-designed microfluidic chips are shown for the fabrication of multifunctional micro/nanoparticles as drug delivery vehicles. Finally, we describe the interaction of drugs with lymphatic vessels that are neglected in organs-on-chips. Overall, the accelerated development of microfluidics holds great potential for the clinical translation of micro/nanoparticle drug delivery systems for disease treatment.
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Chan KWY, Navi M, Kieda J, Moran T, Hammers D, Lee S, Tsai SSH. Phase transition modulation and biophysical characterization of biomolecular condensates using microfluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:2647-2656. [PMID: 35616128 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00037g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Membraneless organelles (MLOs) formed through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) are becoming increasingly relevant to understanding viral-host interactions, neurodegenerative disease, and cancer. The modulation of LLPS involves many parameters and components. To describe these modulators, typical in vitro studies require laborious, manual sample preparation of different concentrations and costly biological reagents. Here, we introduce a minimal reagent, microfluidic platform to systematically generate samples of different concentrations and trigger phase separation. We demonstrate the platform's utility by constructing phase diagrams describing the modulation of LLPS using an aqueous two-phase system (ATPS) and an MLO-based phase separating system. We also show on-chip biophysical characterization typical of in vitro studies. We expect that this platform will be utilized by scientists to study the growing number of MLOs and inform clinical treatments for pathology related to LLPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine W Y Chan
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering, Ryerson University, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada.
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Technology (iBEST) - A partnership between Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Maryam Navi
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering, Ryerson University, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada.
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Technology (iBEST) - A partnership between Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Jennifer Kieda
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering, Ryerson University, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada.
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Technology (iBEST) - A partnership between Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto M5B 1W8, Canada
| | - Thomas Moran
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Daniel Hammers
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Shaun Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
- Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
- Institution for Precision Health, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Scott S H Tsai
- Graduate Program in Biomedical Engineering, Ryerson University, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada.
- Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science, St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Technology (iBEST) - A partnership between Ryerson University and St. Michael's Hospital, Toronto M5B 1W8, Canada
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Ryerson University, Toronto M5B 2K3, Canada
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Park D, Kim H, Kim JW. Microfluidic production of monodisperse emulsions for cosmetics. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2021; 15:051302. [PMID: 34733378 PMCID: PMC8550801 DOI: 10.1063/5.0057733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Droplet-based microfluidic technology has enabled the production of emulsions with high monodispersity in sizes ranging from a few to hundreds of micrometers. Taking advantage of this technology, attempts to generate monodisperse emulsion drops with high drug loading capacity, ordered interfacial structure, and multi-functionality have been made in the cosmetics industry. In this article, we introduce the practicality of the droplet-based microfluidic approach to the cosmetic industry in terms of innovation in productivity and marketability. Furthermore, we summarize some recent advances in the production of emulsion drops with enhanced mechanical interfacial stability. Finally, we discuss the future prospects of microfluidic technology in accordance with consumers' needs and industrial attributes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daehwan Park
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Hajeong Kim
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Woong Kim
- School of Chemical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, Republic of Korea
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A microfluidic synthesis method for preparation and regulation of 3-aminophenol formaldehyde resin spheres. REACT FUNCT POLYM 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.reactfunctpolym.2021.104973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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Yang M, Gao Y, Liu Y, Yang G, Zhao CX, Wu KJ. Integration of microfluidic systems with external fields for multiphase process intensification. Chem Eng Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2021.116450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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