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Tabatabaei Rezaei N, Kumar H, Liu H, Lee SS, Park SS, Kim K. Recent Advances in Organ-on-Chips Integrated with Bioprinting Technologies for Drug Screening. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2203172. [PMID: 36971091 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202203172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
Abstract
Currently, the demand for more reliable drug screening devices has made scientists and researchers develop novel potential approaches to offer an alternative to animal studies. Organ-on-chips are newly emerged platforms for drug screening and disease metabolism investigation. These microfluidic devices attempt to recapitulate the physiological and biological properties of different organs and tissues using human-derived cells. Recently, the synergistic combination of additive manufacturing and microfluidics has shown a promising impact on improving a wide array of biological models. In this review, different methods are classified using bioprinting to achieve the relevant biomimetic models in organ-on-chips, boosting the efficiency of these devices to produce more reliable data for drug investigations. In addition to the tissue models, the influence of additive manufacturing on microfluidic chip fabrication is discussed, and their biomedical applications are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nima Tabatabaei Rezaei
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Hitendra Kumar
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Hongqun Liu
- Liver Unit, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Samuel S Lee
- Liver Unit, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Simon S Park
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Keekyoung Kim
- Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 1N4, Canada
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2
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Li X, You B, Shum HC, Chen CH. Future foods: Design, fabrication and production through microfluidics. Biomaterials 2022; 287:121631. [PMID: 35717791 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2022.121631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Many delicious foods are soft matter systems with health ingredients and unique internal structures that provide rich nutrition, unique textures, and popular flavors. Obtaining these special properties in food products usually requires specialized processes. Microfluidic technologies have been developed to physically manipulate liquids to produce a broad range of microunits, providing a suitable approach for precise fabrication of functional biomaterials with desirable interior structures in a bottom-up fashion. In this review, we present how microfluidics has been applied to produce gel-based structures and highlight their use in fabricating novel foods, focusing on, among others, cultured meat as a rapidly growing field in food industry. We first discuss the behaviors of food liquids in microchannels for fluidic structure design. Then, different types of microsized building blocks with specific geometries fabricated through microfluidics are introduced, including particles (point), fibers (line), and sheets (plane). These well-defined units can encapsulate or interact with cells, forming microtissues to construct meat products with desirable architectures. After that, we review approaches to scale up microfluidic devices for mass production of the hydrogel building blocks and highlight the challenges associated with bottom-up food production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiufeng Li
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China
| | - Baihao You
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Ho Cheung Shum
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong, China; Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Chia-Hung Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong, China; City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Research Institute, 8 Yuexing 1st Road, Shenzhen Hi-tech Industrial Park, Nanshan District, Shenzhen, China.
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3
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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]
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4
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Yu F, Goh YT, Li H, Chakrapani NB, Ni M, Xu GL, Hsieh TM, Toh YC, Cheung C, Iliescu C, Yu H. A vascular-liver chip for sensitive detection of nutraceutical metabolites from human pluripotent stem cell derivatives. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2020; 14:034108. [PMID: 32509050 PMCID: PMC7255812 DOI: 10.1063/5.0004286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Human pluripotent stem cell (hPSC) is a great resource for generating cell derivatives for drug efficiency testing. Metabolites of nutraceuticals can exert anti-inflammatory effects on blood vessels. However, the concentration of nutraceutical metabolites produced in hPSC-derived hepatocytes (hPSC-HEPs) is usually low. To enable the detection of these metabolites under the in vitro environment, we have developed a co-culture model consisting of parallel co-culture chambers and a recirculating microfluidic system with minimum fluid volume, optimal cell culture environment. The model allows cells to be exposed continuously to nutraceutical metabolites. In this perfused culturing model, hPSC-derived endothelial cells and hPSC-HEPs are co-cultured without physical contact. When an anti-inflammatory nutraceutical, quercetin, was administrated to the co-culture, higher levels of quercetin metabolites were detected on-chip compared with static control. We further induced inflammation with Interleukin-1β in the co-culture model and measured interleukin 8 (IL-8) generation. The IL-8 level was suppressed more significantly by quercetin metabolites in the perfusion co-culture, as compared to static culture. This is due to enhanced metabolites production on-chip. This microfluidic co-culture model enables in vitro screening of nutraceuticals using hPSC-derived cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Huan Li
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, A*STAR, The Nanos, #04-01, 31 Biopolis Way, Singapore 138669
| | | | - Ming Ni
- School of Biological Sciences and Engineering, Yachay Tech University, Hacienda San José s/n, San Miguel de Urcuquí 100105, Ecuador
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Xuan X. Recent Advances in Continuous-Flow Particle Manipulations Using Magnetic Fluids. MICROMACHINES 2019; 10:E744. [PMID: 31683660 PMCID: PMC6915689 DOI: 10.3390/mi10110744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2019] [Revised: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 10/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Magnetic field-induced particle manipulation is simple and economic as compared to other techniques (e.g., electric, acoustic, and optical) for lab-on-a-chip applications. However, traditional magnetic controls require the particles to be manipulated being magnetizable, which renders it necessary to magnetically label particles that are almost exclusively diamagnetic in nature. In the past decade, magnetic fluids including paramagnetic solutions and ferrofluids have been increasingly used in microfluidic devices to implement label-free manipulations of various types of particles (both synthetic and biological). We review herein the recent advances in this field with focus upon the continuous-flow particle manipulations. Specifically, we review the reported studies on the negative magnetophoresis-induced deflection, focusing, enrichment, separation, and medium exchange of diamagnetic particles in the continuous flow of magnetic fluids through microchannels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangchun Xuan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634-0921, USA.
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Microfluidic bioprinting for organ-on-a-chip models. Drug Discov Today 2019; 24:1248-1257. [DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2019.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
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Yu F, Hunziker W, Choudhury D. Engineering Microfluidic Organoid-on-a-Chip Platforms. MICROMACHINES 2019; 10:E165. [PMID: 30818801 PMCID: PMC6470849 DOI: 10.3390/mi10030165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2019] [Revised: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
In vitro cell culture models are emerging as promising tools to understand human development, disease progression, and provide reliable, rapid and cost-effective results for drug discovery and screening. In recent years, an increasing number of in vitro models with complex organization and controlled microenvironment have been developed to mimic the in vivo organ structure and function. The invention of organoids, self-organized organ-like cell aggregates that originate from multipotent stem cells, has allowed a whole new level of biomimicry to be achieved. Microfluidic organoid-on-a-chip platforms can facilitate better nutrient and gas exchange and recapitulate 3D tissue architecture and physiology. They have the potential to transform the landscape of drug development and testing. In this review, we discuss the challenges in the current organoid models and describe the recent progress in the field of organoid-on-a-chip.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Yu
- Bio-Manufacturing Programme, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, #08-04, Innovis, Singapore 138634, Singapore.
| | - Walter Hunziker
- Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 61 Biopolis Drive, Proteos, Singapore 138673, Singapore.
- Department of Physiology, 2 Medical Drive, MD9, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117593, Singapore.
| | - Deepak Choudhury
- Bio-Manufacturing Programme, Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), 2 Fusionopolis Way, #08-04, Innovis, Singapore 138634, Singapore.
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Kim W, Kim G. Intestinal Villi Model with Blood Capillaries Fabricated Using Collagen-Based Bioink and Dual-Cell-Printing Process. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2018; 10:41185-41196. [PMID: 30419164 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b17410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The human intestine, a vital organ in our digestive system, shows an anatomically complex architecture. The fabrication of three-dimensional (3D) intestinal models containing villus structures has been an important topic for intestine regeneration or organ-on-a-chip, because a 3D model can provide broad surface area and help absorption and transportation of digested nutrients. In this study, we developed a 3D intestinal villi model containing an epithelium layer and a blood capillary structure, using an innovative cell-printing process. The epithelium and capillary network of the 3D model were fabricated using two collagen-based bioinks laden with Caco-2 cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The fabricating conditions were optimized to obtain a unique 3D villus structure, with capillary in the core and high cell viability. A fabricated single villus was 183 ± 12 μm in diameter and 770 ± 42 μm in height, which means the aspect ratio of the structure was 4.2 ± 0.3. The results indicate that the cell-laden intestinal villi successfully mimicked the 3D geometry of human intestinal villi. In vitro cellular activity of the 3D villi model containing epithelium and capillary demonstrated significantly higher cell growth and expression of enzymes and MUC17, compared to those of 2D models and a 3D villi model without the capillary network. The suggested 3D intestinal villi also exhibited the enhancement of the barrier function as compared to those of the others, and even demonstrated an increase of the permeability coefficient of FITC-dextran and glucose uptake ability (FITC, fluorescein isothiocyanate). These results indicate that a 3D intestinal villi model would be a highly promising for mimicking the human intestine.
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Affiliation(s)
- WonJin Kim
- Department of Biomechatronic Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering , Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) , Suwon 16419 , Republic of Korea
| | - GeunHyung Kim
- Department of Biomechatronic Engineering, College of Biotechnology and Bioengineering , Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) , Suwon 16419 , Republic of Korea
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9
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Abstract
3D printing, an upcoming technology, has vast potential to transform conventional fabrication processes due to the numerous improvements it can offer to the current methods. To date, the employment of 3D printing technology has been examined for applications in the fields of engineering, manufacturing and biological sciences. In this study, we examined the potential of adopting 3D printing technology for a novel application, electrochemical DNA biosensing. Metal 3D printing was utilized to construct helical-shaped stainless steel electrodes which functioned as a transducing platform for the detection of DNA hybridization. The ability of electroactive methylene blue to intercalate into the double helix structure of double-stranded DNA was then exploited to monitor the DNA hybridization process, with its inherent reduction peak serving as an analytical signal. The designed biosensing approach was found to demonstrate superior selectivity against a non-complementary DNA target, with a detection range of 1-1000 nM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeline Huiling Loo
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore.
| | - Chun Kiang Chua
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore.
| | - Martin Pumera
- Division of Chemistry & Biological Chemistry, School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 21 Nanyang Link, Singapore 637371, Singapore.
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Lepowsky E, Tasoglu S. Emerging Anti-Fouling Methods: Towards Reusability of 3D-Printed Devices for Biomedical Applications. MICROMACHINES 2018; 9:E196. [PMID: 30424129 PMCID: PMC6187557 DOI: 10.3390/mi9040196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 04/07/2018] [Accepted: 04/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices are used in a myriad of biomedical applications such as cancer screening, drug testing, and point-of-care diagnostics. Three-dimensional (3D) printing offers a low-cost, rapid prototyping, efficient fabrication method, as compared to the costly-in terms of time, labor, and resources-traditional fabrication method of soft lithography of poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS). Various 3D printing methods are applicable, including fused deposition modeling, stereolithography, and photopolymer inkjet printing. Additionally, several materials are available that have low-viscosity in their raw form and, after printing and curing, exhibit high material strength, optical transparency, and biocompatibility. These features make 3D-printed microfluidic chips ideal for biomedical applications. However, for developing devices capable of long-term use, fouling-by nonspecific protein absorption and bacterial adhesion due to the intrinsic hydrophobicity of most 3D-printed materials-presents a barrier to reusability. For this reason, there is a growing interest in anti-fouling methods and materials. Traditional and emerging approaches to anti-fouling are presented in regard to their applicability to microfluidic chips, with a particular interest in approaches compatible with 3D-printed chips.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Lepowsky
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
| | - Savas Tasoglu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
- Institute of Materials Science, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
- Institute for Collaboration on Health, Intervention, and Policy, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
- The Connecticut Institute for the Brain and Cognitive Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA.
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11
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Yu F, Zhuo S, Qu Y, Choudhury D, Wang Z, Iliescu C, Yu H. On chip two-photon metabolic imaging for drug toxicity testing. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2017; 11:034108. [PMID: 28529673 PMCID: PMC5426952 DOI: 10.1063/1.4983615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/03/2017] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
We have developed a microfluidic system suitable to be incorporated with a metabolic imaging method to monitor the drug response of cells cultured on a chip. The cells were perfusion-cultured to mimic the blood flow in vivo. Label-free optical measurements and imaging of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide fluorescence intensity and morphological changes were evaluated non-invasively. Drug responses calculated using redox ratio imaging were compared with the drug toxicity testing results obtained with a traditional well-plate system. We found that our method can accurately monitor the cell viability and drug response and that the IC50 value obtained from imaging analysis was sensitive and comparable with a commonly used cell viability assay: MTS (3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfo-phenyl)-2H-tetrazolium) assay. Our method could serve as a fast, non-invasive, and reliable way for drug screening and toxicity testing as well as enabling real-time monitoring of in vitro cultured cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Deepak Choudhury
- Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, ASTAR, 71 Nanyang Dr, Singapore, Singapore, 638075
| | - Zhiping Wang
- Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology, ASTAR, 71 Nanyang Dr, Singapore, Singapore, 638075
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12
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Picollet-D’hahan N, Dolega ME, Liguori L, Marquette C, Le Gac S, Gidrol X, Martin DK. A 3D Toolbox to Enhance Physiological Relevance of Human Tissue Models. Trends Biotechnol 2016; 34:757-769. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Revised: 06/17/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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13
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Han B, Qu C, Park K, Konieczny SF, Korc M. Recapitulation of complex transport and action of drugs at the tumor microenvironment using tumor-microenvironment-on-chip. Cancer Lett 2015; 380:319-29. [PMID: 26688098 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 12/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Targeted delivery aims to selectively distribute drugs to targeted tumor tissues but not to healthy tissues. This can address many clinical challenges by maximizing the efficacy but minimizing the toxicity of anti-cancer drugs. However, a complex tumor microenvironment poses various barriers hindering the transport of drugs and drug delivery systems. New tumor models that allow for the systematic study of these complex environments are highly desired to provide reliable test beds to develop drug delivery systems for targeted delivery. Recently, research efforts have yielded new in vitro tumor models, the so called tumor-microenvironment-on-chip, that recapitulate certain characteristics of the tumor microenvironment. These new models show benefits over other conventional tumor models, and have the potential to accelerate drug discovery and enable precision medicine. However, further research is warranted to overcome their limitations and to properly interpret the data obtained from these models. In this article, key features of the in vivo tumor microenvironment that are relevant to drug transport processes for targeted delivery were discussed, and the current status and challenges for developing in vitro transport model systems were reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bumsoo Han
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA.
| | - Chunjing Qu
- Department of Biological Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Kinam Park
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA; Birck Nanotechnology Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Stephen F Konieczny
- Department of Biological Science, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN, USA
| | - Murray Korc
- Departments of Medicine, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA; Pancreatic Cancer Signature Center, Indiana University Simon Cancer Center, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA
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14
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Jang LW, Lee J, Razu ME, Jensen EC, Kim J. Fabrication of PDMS Nanocomposite Materials and Nanostructures for Biomedical Nanosystems. IEEE Trans Nanobioscience 2015; 14:841-9. [DOI: 10.1109/tnb.2015.2509602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
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15
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Goral VN, Tran E, Yuen PK. A pump-free membrane-controlled perfusion microfluidic platform. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2015; 9:054103. [PMID: 26392835 PMCID: PMC4560713 DOI: 10.1063/1.4930120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we present a microfluidic platform for passive fluid pumping for pump-free perfusion cell culture, cell-based assay, and chemical applications. By adapting the passive membrane-controlled pumping principle from the previously developed perfusion microplate, which utilizes a combination of hydrostatic pressure generated by different liquid levels in the wells and fluid wicking through narrow strips of a porous membrane connecting the wells to generate fluid flow, a series of pump-free membrane-controlled perfusion microfluidic devices was developed and their use for pump-free perfusion cell culture and cell-based assays was demonstrated. Each pump-free membrane-controlled perfusion microfluidic device comprises at least three basic components: an open well for generating fluid flow, a micron-sized deep chamber/channel for cell culture or for fluid connection, and a wettable porous membrane for controlling the fluid flow. Each component is fluidically connected either by the porous membrane or by the micron-sized deep chamber/channel. By adapting and incorporating the passive membrane-controlled pumping principle into microfluidic devices, all the benefits of microfluidic technologies, such as small sample volumes, fast and efficient fluid exchanges, and fluid properties at the micro-scale, can be fully taken advantage of with this pump-free membrane-controlled perfusion microfluidic platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliy N Goral
- Science and Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831, USA
| | - Elizabeth Tran
- Science and Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831, USA
| | - Po Ki Yuen
- Science and Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831, USA
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16
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Goral VN, Au SH, Faris RA, Yuen PK. Methods for advanced hepatocyte cell culture in microwells utilizing air bubbles. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:1032-1037. [PMID: 25474691 DOI: 10.1039/c4lc01178c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Flat, two-dimensional (2D) cell culture substrates are simple to use but offer little control over cell morphologies and behavior. In this article, we present a number of novel and unique methods for advanced cell culture in microwells utilizing air bubbles as a way to seed cells in order to provide substantial control over cellular microenvironments and organization to achieve specific cell-based applications. These cell culture methods enable controlled formation of stable air bubbles in the microwells that spontaneously formed when polar solvents such as cell culture media are loaded. The presence of air bubbles (air bubble masking) enables highly controllable cell patterning and organization of seeded cells as well as cell co-culture in microwells. In addition, these cell culture methods are simple to use and implement, yet versatile, and have the potential to provide a wide range of microenvironments to improve in vivo-like behavior for a number of cell types and applications. The air bubble masking technique can also be used to produce a micron thick layer of collagen film suspended on top of the microwells. These collagen film enclosed microwells could provide an easy way for high throughput drug screening and cytotoxicity assays as different drug compounds could be pre-loaded and dried in selected microwells and then released during cell culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliy N Goral
- Science & Technology, Corning Incorporated, Corning, NY, 14831-0001, USA.
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17
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Ho CMB, Ng SH, Li KHH, Yoon YJ. 3D printed microfluidics for biological applications. LAB ON A CHIP 2015; 15:3627-37. [PMID: 26237523 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc00685f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 369] [Impact Index Per Article: 41.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The term "Lab-on-a-Chip," is synonymous with describing microfluidic devices with biomedical applications. Even though microfluidics have been developing rapidly over the past decade, the uptake rate in biological research has been slow. This could be due to the tedious process of fabricating a chip and the absence of a "killer application" that would outperform existing traditional methods. In recent years, three dimensional (3D) printing has been drawing much interest from the research community. It has the ability to make complex structures with high resolution. Moreover, the fast building time and ease of learning has simplified the fabrication process of microfluidic devices to a single step. This could possibly aid the field of microfluidics in finding its "killer application" that will lead to its acceptance by researchers, especially in the biomedical field. In this paper, a review is carried out of how 3D printing helps to improve the fabrication of microfluidic devices, the 3D printing technologies currently used for fabrication and the future of 3D printing in the field of microfluidics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chee Meng Benjamin Ho
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Singapore (639798).
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18
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Kim SH, Chi M, Yi B, Kim SH, Oh S, Kim Y, Park S, Sung JH. Three-dimensional intestinal villi epithelium enhances protection of human intestinal cells from bacterial infection by inducing mucin expression. Integr Biol (Camb) 2014; 6:1122-31. [PMID: 25200891 DOI: 10.1039/c4ib00157e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Current in vitro cell culture models do not reflect human physiology, and various efforts have been made to enhance existing models. Reconstitution of three-dimensional (3D) tissue structure has been one of the strategies, since 3D tissue structure provides essential cellular environmental cues for cell functions. Previously, we developed a novel hydrogel microfabrication technique for constructing an accurate 3D replica of human intestinal villi epithelium. In this study, genetic and physiological properties of the 3D villi model were examined to gain a better insight into the barrier function of gut epithelium and its interaction with microbes. Gene expression study of Caco-2 on the 3D villi scaffold revealed that expression of MUC17, which is one of the transmembrane mucins, was highly enhanced in the 3D villi model, compared to a monolayer culture. Cells on the scaffold were almost immune to bacterial infection, while MUC17 knockdown in Caco-2 cells restored bacterial infectivity. The 3D villi model also exhibited changes in the barrier function compared to the 2D model, manifested by changes in transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) and permeability of FITC-dextran. Knockdown of MUC17 resulted in reduction of tight junction protein expression and further increase in permeability, suggesting an important role of MUC17 in the barrier function against pathogens and xenobiotics. Our study suggests that mimicking the 3D tissue architecture of the small intestine induces physiological changes in human intestinal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Hyun Kim
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Hongik University, Seoul, Korea.
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O'Neill PF, Ben Azouz A, Vázquez M, Liu J, Marczak S, Slouka Z, Chang HC, Diamond D, Brabazon D. Advances in three-dimensional rapid prototyping of microfluidic devices for biological applications. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2014; 8:052112. [PMID: 25538804 PMCID: PMC4241764 DOI: 10.1063/1.4898632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The capability of 3D printing technologies for direct production of complex 3D structures in a single step has recently attracted an ever increasing interest within the field of microfluidics. Recently, ultrafast lasers have also allowed developing new methods for production of internal microfluidic channels within the bulk of glass and polymer materials by direct internal 3D laser writing. This review critically summarizes the latest advances in the production of microfluidic 3D structures by using 3D printing technologies and direct internal 3D laser writing fabrication methods. Current applications of these rapid prototyped microfluidic platforms in biology will be also discussed. These include imaging of cells and living organisms, electrochemical detection of viruses and neurotransmitters, and studies in drug transport and induced-release of adenosine triphosphate from erythrocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - J Liu
- Advanced Processing Technology Research Centre, School of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Dublin City University , Dublin, Ireland
| | - S Marczak
- Centre for Microfluidics and Medical Diagnostics, University of Notre Dame , Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - Z Slouka
- Centre for Microfluidics and Medical Diagnostics, University of Notre Dame , Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - H C Chang
- Centre for Microfluidics and Medical Diagnostics, University of Notre Dame , Notre Dame, Indiana 46556, USA
| | - D Diamond
- Insight Centre for Data Analytics, National Centre for Sensor Research, Dublin City University , Dublin, Ireland
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20
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Hu J, Hardy C, Chen CM, Yang S, Voloshin AS, Liu Y. Enhanced cell adhesion and alignment on micro-wavy patterned surfaces. PLoS One 2014; 9:e104502. [PMID: 25105589 PMCID: PMC4126693 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0104502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/14/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Various micropatterns have been fabricated and used to regulate cell adhesion, morphology and function. Micropatterns created by standard photolithography process are usually rectangular channels with sharp corners (microgrooves) which provide limited control over cells and are not favorable for cell-cell interaction and communication. This paper proposes a new micropattern with smooth wavy surfaces (micro-waves) to control the position and orientation of cells. To characterize cell growth and responses on the micro-patterned substrates, bovine aortic endothelial cells were seeded onto surfaces with micro-grooves and micro-waves for 24 h. As a result, the cells on the micro-wavy pattern appeared to have a lower death rate and better alignment compared to those on the micro-grooved pattern. In addition, flow-induced shear stress was applied to examine the adhesion strength of cells on the micro-wavy pattern. Results showed that cells adhered to the wavy surface displayed both improved alignment and adhesion strength compared to those on the flat surface. The combination of increased alignment, lower death rate and enhanced adhesion strength of cells on the micro-wavy patterns will offer advantages in potential applications for cell phenotype, proliferation and tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Hu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Camille Hardy
- Bioengineering Program, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Chi-Mon Chen
- Department of Material Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Shu Yang
- Department of Material Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Arkady S. Voloshin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Bioengineering Program, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Yaling Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- Bioengineering Program, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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21
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Choi JW, Hosseini Hashemi SM, Erickson D, Psaltis D. A micropillar array for sample concentration via in-plane evaporation. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2014; 8:044108. [PMID: 25379093 PMCID: PMC4189217 DOI: 10.1063/1.4890943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
We present a method to perform sample concentration within a lab-on-a-chip using a microfluidic structure which controls the liquid-gas interface through a micropillar array fabricated in polydimethylsiloxane between microfluidic channels. The microstructure confines the liquid flow and a thermal gradient is used to drive evaporation at the liquid-gas-interface. The evaporation occurs in-plane to the microfluidic device, allowing for precise control of the ambient environment. This method is demonstrated with a sample containing 1 μm, 100 nm fluorescent beads and SYTO-9 labelled Escherichia coli bacteria. Over 100 s, the fluorescent beads and bacteria are concentrated by a factor of 10.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Woo Choi
- School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne , Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | | | - David Erickson
- Sibley School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Cornell University , Ithaca, New York 14853, USA
| | - Demetri Psaltis
- School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne , Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
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22
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Goral VN, Au SH, Faris RA, Yuen PK. Microstructured multi-well plate for three-dimensional packed cell seeding and hepatocyte cell culture. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2014; 8:046502. [PMID: 25379107 PMCID: PMC4189372 DOI: 10.1063/1.4892978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2014] [Accepted: 08/01/2014] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we present a microstructured multi-well plate for enabling three-dimensional (3D) high density seeding and culture of cells through the use of a standard laboratory centrifuge to promote and maintain 3D tissue-like cellular morphology and cell-specific functionality in vitro without the addition of animal derived or synthetic matrices or coagulants. Each well has microfeatures on the bottom that are comprised of a series of ditches/open microchannels. The dimensions of the microchannels promote and maintain 3D tissue-like cellular morphology and cell-specific functionality in vitro. After cell seeding with a standard pipette, the microstructured multi-well plates were centrifuged to tightly pack cells inside the ditches in order to enhance cell-cell interactions and induce formation of 3D cellular structures during cell culture. Cell-cell interactions were optimized based on cell packing by considering dimensions of the ditches/open microchannels, orientation of the microstructured multi-well plate during centrifugation, cell seeding density, and the centrifugal force and time. With the optimized cell packing conditions, we demonstrated that after 7 days of cell culture, primary human hepatocytes adhered tightly together to form cord-like structures that resembled 3D tissue-like cellular architecture. Importantly, cell membrane polarity was restored without the addition of animal derived or synthetic matrices or coagulants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliy N Goral
- Science and Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831-0001, USA
| | - Sam H Au
- Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Charlestown , Massachusetts 02129, USA
| | - Ronald A Faris
- Science and Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831-0001, USA
| | - Po Ki Yuen
- Science and Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831-0001, USA
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23
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Chan CY, Goral VN, DeRosa ME, Huang TJ, Yuen PK. A polystyrene-based microfluidic device with three-dimensional interconnected microporous walls for perfusion cell culture. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2014; 8:046505. [PMID: 25379110 PMCID: PMC4189376 DOI: 10.1063/1.4894409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2014] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
In this article, we present a simple, rapid prototyped polystyrene-based microfluidic device with three-dimensional (3D) interconnected microporous walls for long term perfusion cell culture. Patterned 3D interconnected microporous structures were created by a chemical treatment together with a protective mask and the native hydrophobic nature of the microporous structures were selectively made hydrophilic using oxygen plasma treatment together with a protective mask. Using this polystyrene-based cell culture microfluidic device, we successfully demonstrated the support of four days perfusion cell culture of hepatocytes (C3A cells).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chung Yu Chan
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Vasiliy N Goral
- Science & Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831, USA
| | - Michael E DeRosa
- Science & Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831, USA
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University , University Park, Pennsylvania 16802, USA
| | - Po Ki Yuen
- Science & Technology, Corning Incorporated , Corning, New York 14831, USA
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24
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Oh J, Liu K, Medina T, Kralick F, Noh HM. A novel microneedle array for the treatment of hydrocephalus. MICROSYSTEM TECHNOLOGIES : SENSORS, ACTUATORS, SYSTEMS INTEGRATION 2014; 20:1169-1179. [PMID: 25013306 PMCID: PMC4084597 DOI: 10.1007/s00542-013-1988-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2023]
Abstract
We present a microfabricated 10 by 10 array of microneedles for the treatment of a neurological disease called communicating hydrocephalus. Together with the previously reported microvalve array, the current implantable microneedle array completes the microfabricated arachnoid granulations (MAGs) that mimic the function of normal arachnoid granulations (AGs). The microneedle array was designed to enable the fixation of the MAGs through dura mater membrane in the brain and thus provide a conduit for the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Cone-shaped microneedles with hollow channels were fabricated using a series of microfabrication techniques: SU-8 photolithography for tapered geometry, reactive ion etching for sharpening the microneedles, 248 nm deep UV excimer laser machining for creating through-hole inside the microneedles, and metal sputtering for improved rigidity. Puncture tests were conducted using porcine dura mater and the results showed that the fabricated microneedle array is strong enough to pierce the dura mater. The in-vitro biocompatibility test result showed that none of the 100 outlets of the microneedles exposed to the bloodstream were clogged significantly by blood cells. We believe that these test results demonstrate the potential use of the microneedle array as a new treatment of hydrocephalus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonghyun Oh
- Division of Mechanical Design Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Korea
| | - Kewei Liu
- Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics, Drexel University
| | | | - Francis Kralick
- Neurological Surgery, College of Medicine, Drexel University
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25
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Dereli-Korkut Z, Akaydin HD, Ahmed AHR, Jiang X, Wang S. Three dimensional microfluidic cell arrays for ex vivo drug screening with mimicked vascular flow. Anal Chem 2014; 86:2997-3004. [PMID: 24568664 PMCID: PMC3982971 DOI: 10.1021/ac403899j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
![]()
Currently, there are no reliable ex vivo models
that predict anticancer drug responses in human tumors accurately.
A comprehensive method of mimicking a 3D microenvironment to study
effects of anticancer drugs on specific cancer types is essential.
Here, we report the development of a three-dimensional microfluidic
cell array (3D μFCA), which reconstructs a 3D tumor microenvironment
with cancer cells and microvascular endothelial cells. To mimic the in vivo spatial relationship between microvessels and nonendothelial
cells embedded in extracellular matrix, three polydimethylsiloxane
(PDMS) layers were built into this array. The multilayer property
of the device enabled the imitation of the drug delivery in a microtissue
array with simulated blood circulation. This 3D μFCA system
may provide better predictions of drug responses and identification
of a suitable treatment for a specific patient if biopsy samples are
used. To the pharmaceutical industry, the scaling-up of our 3D μFCA
system may offer a novel high throughput screening tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeynep Dereli-Korkut
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The City College of the City University of New York , 160 Convent Ave. Steinman Hall T-434, New York, New York 10031, United States
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26
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Cima I, Wen Yee C, Iliescu FS, Phyo WM, Lim KH, Iliescu C, Tan MH. Label-free isolation of circulating tumor cells in microfluidic devices: Current research and perspectives. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2013; 7:11810. [PMID: 24403992 PMCID: PMC3568085 DOI: 10.1063/1.4780062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/17/2012] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
This review will cover the recent advances in label-free approaches to isolate and manipulate circulating tumor cells (CTCs). In essence, label-free approaches do not rely on antibodies or biological markers for labeling the cells of interest, but enrich them using the differential physical properties intrinsic to cancer and blood cells. We will discuss technologies that isolate cells based on their biomechanical and electrical properties. Label-free approaches to analyze CTCs have been recently invoked as a valid alternative to "marker-based" techniques, because classical epithelial and tumor markers are lost on some CTC populations and there is no comprehensive phenotypic definition for CTCs. We will highlight the advantages and drawbacks of these technologies and the status on their implementation in the clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Igor Cima
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos #04-01, Singapore 138669
| | - Chay Wen Yee
- National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore 169610
| | | | - Wai Min Phyo
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos #04-01, Singapore 138669
| | - Kiat Hon Lim
- Department of Pathology, Singapore General Hospital, Outram Road, Singapore 169608
| | - Ciprian Iliescu
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos #04-01, Singapore 138669
| | - Min Han Tan
- Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos #04-01, Singapore 138669 ; National Cancer Centre Singapore, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore 169610
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27
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Ciucurel EC, Chamberlain MD, Sefton MV. The Modular Approach. Biofabrication 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-1-4557-2852-7.00007-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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28
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Microscale methods to assemble mammalian cells into tissue-like structures. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2012; 55:862-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s11427-012-4385-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2012] [Accepted: 09/24/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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29
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Ramón-Azcón J, Ahadian S, Obregón R, Camci-Unal G, Ostrovidov S, Hosseini V, Kaji H, Ino K, Shiku H, Khademhosseini A, Matsue T. Gelatin methacrylate as a promising hydrogel for 3D microscale organization and proliferation of dielectrophoretically patterned cells. LAB ON A CHIP 2012; 12:2959-69. [PMID: 22773042 DOI: 10.1039/c2lc40213k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Establishing the 3D microscale organization of cells has numerous practical applications, such as in determining cell fate (e.g., proliferation, migration, differentiation, and apoptosis) and in making functional tissue constructs. One approach to spatially pattern cells is by dielectrophoresis (DEP). DEP has characteristics that are important for cell manipulation, such as high accuracy, speed, scalability, and the ability to handle both adherent and non-adherent cells. However, widespread application of this method is largely restricted because there is a limited number of suitable hydrogels for cell encapsulation. To date, polyethylene glycol-diacrylate (PEG-DA) and agarose have been used extensively for dielectric patterning of cells. In this study, we propose gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) as a promising hydrogel for use in cell dielectropatterning because of its biocompatibility and low viscosity. Compared to PEG hydrogels, GelMA hydrogels showed superior performance when making cell patterns for myoblast (C2C12) and endothelial (HUVEC) cells as well as in maintaining cell viability and growth. We also developed a simple and robust protocol for co-culture of these cells. Combined application of the GelMA hydrogels and the DEP technique is suitable for creating highly complex microscale tissues with important applications in fundamental cell biology and regenerative medicine in a rapid, accurate, and scalable manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Ramón-Azcón
- WPI-Advanced Institute for Materials Research, Tohoku University, Sendai 980-8577, Japan
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30
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Huang Y, Williams JC, Johnson SM. Brain slice on a chip: opportunities and challenges of applying microfluidic technology to intact tissues. LAB ON A CHIP 2012; 12:2103-2117. [PMID: 22534786 DOI: 10.1039/c2lc21142d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Isolated brain tissue, especially brain slices, are valuable experimental tools for studying neuronal function at the network, cellular, synaptic, and single channel levels. Neuroscientists have refined the methods for preserving brain slice viability and function and converged on principles that strongly resemble the approach taken by engineers in developing microfluidic devices. With respect to brain slices, microfluidic technology may 1) overcome the traditional limitations of conventional interface and submerged slice chambers and improve oxygen/nutrient penetration into slices, 2) provide better spatiotemporal control over solution flow/drug delivery to specific slice regions, and 3) permit successful integration with modern optical and electrophysiological techniques. In this review, we highlight the unique advantages of microfluidic devices for in vitro brain slice research, describe recent advances in the integration of microfluidic devices with optical and electrophysiological instrumentation, and discuss clinical applications of microfluidic technology as applied to brain slices and other non-neuronal tissues. We hope that this review will serve as an interdisciplinary guide for both neuroscientists studying brain tissue in vitro and engineers as they further develop microfluidic chamber technology for neuroscience research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Huang
- University of Wisconsin-Madison, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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31
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Moraes C, Mehta G, Lesher-Perez SC, Takayama S. Organs-on-a-chip: a focus on compartmentalized microdevices. Ann Biomed Eng 2011; 40:1211-27. [PMID: 22065201 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-011-0455-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2011] [Accepted: 10/24/2011] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Advances in microengineering technologies have enabled a variety of insights into biomedical sciences that would not have been possible with conventional techniques. Engineering microenvironments that simulate in vivo organ systems may provide critical insight into the cellular basis for pathophysiologies, development, and homeostasis in various organs, while curtailing the high experimental costs and complexities associated with in vivo studies. In this article, we aim to survey recent attempts to extend tissue-engineered platforms toward simulating organ structure and function, and discuss the various approaches and technologies utilized in these systems. We specifically focus on microtechnologies that exploit phenomena associated with compartmentalization to create model culture systems that better represent the in vivo organ microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
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32
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Dokmeci MR, Khademhosseini A. Preface to Special Topic: Microfluidics in cell biology and tissue engineering. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2011; 5:22101. [PMID: 21799707 PMCID: PMC3145226 DOI: 10.1063/1.3594781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
In this special issue of Biomicrofluidics, a wide variety of applications of microfluidics to tissue engineering and cell biology are presented. The articles illustrate the benefits of using microfluidics for controlling the cellular environment in a precise yet high rate manner using minimum reagents. The topic is very timely and takes a stab at portraying a glimpse of what is to come in this exciting and emerging field of research.
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