1
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Joshi IM, Mansouri M, Ahmed A, De Silva D, Simon RA, Esmaili P, Desa DE, Elias TM, Brown EB, Abhyankar VV. Microengineering 3D Collagen Matrices with Tumor-Mimetic Gradients in Fiber Alignment. ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS 2024; 34:2308071. [PMID: 38706986 PMCID: PMC11067715 DOI: 10.1002/adfm.202308071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Collagen fibers in the 3D tumor microenvironment (TME) exhibit complex alignment landscapes that are critical in directing cell migration through a process called contact guidance. Previous in vitro work studying this phenomenon has focused on quantifying cell responses in uniformly aligned environments. However, the TME also features short-range gradients in fiber alignment that result from cell-induced traction forces. Although the influence of graded biophysical taxis cues is well established, cell responses to physiological alignment gradients remain largely unexplored. In this work, fiber alignment gradients in biopsy samples are characterized and recreated using a new microfluidic biofabrication technique to achieve tunable sub-millimeter to millimeter scale gradients. This study represents the first successful engineering of continuous alignment gradients in soft, natural biomaterials. Migration experiments on graded alignment show that HUVECs exhibit increased directionality, persistence, and speed compared to uniform and unaligned fiber architectures. Similarly, patterned MDA-MB-231 aggregates exhibit biased migration toward increasing fiber alignment, suggesting a role for alignment gradients as a taxis cue. This user-friendly approach, requiring no specialized equipment, is anticipated to offer new insights into the biophysical cues that cells interpret as they traverse the extracellular matrix, with broad applicability in healthy and diseased tissue environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indranil M. Joshi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Mehran Mansouri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Adeel Ahmed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Dinindu De Silva
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Richard A. Simon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Poorya Esmaili
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Danielle E. Desa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Tresa M. Elias
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Edward B. Brown
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Vinay V. Abhyankar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
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2
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Mansouri M, Hughes AR, Audi LA, Carter AE, Vidas JA, McGrath JL, Abhyankar VV. Transforming Static Barrier Tissue Models into Dynamic Microphysiological Systems. J Vis Exp 2024:10.3791/66090. [PMID: 38436378 PMCID: PMC11096840 DOI: 10.3791/66090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Microphysiological systems are miniaturized cell culture platforms used to mimic the structure and function of human tissues in a laboratory setting. However, these platforms have not gained widespread adoption in bioscience laboratories where open-well, membrane-based approaches serve as the gold standard for mimicking tissue barriers, despite lacking fluid flow capabilities. This issue can be primarily attributed to the incompatibility of existing microphysiological systems with standard protocols and tools developed for open-well systems. Here, we present a protocol for creating a reconfigurable membrane-based platform with an open-well structure, flow enhancement capability, and compatibility with conventional protocols. This system utilizes a magnetic assembly approach that enables reversible switching between open-well and microfluidic modes. With this approach, users have the flexibility to begin an experiment in the open-well format using standard protocols and add or remove flow capabilities as needed. To demonstrate the practical usage of this system and its compatibility with standard techniques, an endothelial cell monolayer was established in an open-well format. The system was reconfigured to introduce fluid flow and then switched to the open-well format to conduct immunostaining and RNA extraction. Due to its compatibility with conventional open-well protocols and flow enhancement capability, this reconfigurable design is expected to be adopted by both engineering and bioscience laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Mansouri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology
| | - Aidan R Hughes
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology
| | - Lauren A Audi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology
| | - Anna E Carter
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology
| | - Justin A Vidas
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology
| | - James L McGrath
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester
| | - Vinay V Abhyankar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology;
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3
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Seo S, Kim T. Gas transport mechanisms through gas-permeable membranes in microfluidics: A perspective. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2023; 17:061301. [PMID: 38025658 PMCID: PMC10656118 DOI: 10.1063/5.0169555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Gas-permeable membranes (GPMs) and membrane-like micro-/nanostructures offer precise control over the transport of liquids, gases, and small molecules on microchips, which has led to the possibility of diverse applications, such as gas sensors, solution concentrators, and mixture separators. With the escalating demand for GPMs in microfluidics, this Perspective article aims to comprehensively categorize the transport mechanisms of gases through GPMs based on the penetrant type and the transport direction. We also provide a comprehensive review of recent advancements in GPM-integrated microfluidic devices, provide an overview of the fundamental mechanisms underlying gas transport through GPMs, and present future perspectives on the integration of GPMs in microfluidics. Furthermore, we address the current challenges associated with GPMs and GPM-integrated microfluidic devices, taking into consideration the intrinsic material properties and capabilities of GPMs. By tackling these challenges head-on, we believe that our perspectives can catalyze innovative advancements and help meet the evolving demands of microfluidic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sangjin Seo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), 50 UNIST-gil, Ulsan 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Taesung Kim
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:. Tel.: +82-52-217-2313. Fax: +82-52-217-2409
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4
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Vis MAM, Zhao F, Bodelier ESR, Bood CM, Bulsink J, van Doeselaar M, Amirabadi HE, Ito K, Hofmann S. Osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis on a chip: Engineering a self-assembling 3D coculture. Bone 2023; 173:116812. [PMID: 37236415 DOI: 10.1016/j.bone.2023.116812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Healthy bone is maintained by the process of bone remodeling. An unbalance in this process can lead to pathologies such as osteoporosis which are often studied with animal models. However, data from animals have limited power in predicting the results that will be obtained in human clinical trials. In search for alternatives to animal models, human in vitro models are emerging as they address the principle of reduction, refinement, and replacement of animal experiments (3Rs). At the moment, no complete in vitro model for bone-remodeling exists. Microfluidic chips offer great possibilities, particularly because of the dynamic culture options, which are crucial for in vitro bone formation. In this study, a scaffold free, fully human, 3D microfluidic coculture model of bone remodeling is presented. A bone-on-a-chip coculture system was developed in which human mesenchymal stromal cells differentiated into the osteoblastic lineage and self-assembled into scaffold free bone-like tissues with the shape and dimensions of human trabeculae. Human monocytes were able to attach to these tissues and to fuse into multinucleated osteoclast-like cells, establishing the coculture. Computational modeling was used to determine the fluid flow induced shear stress and strain in the formed tissue. Furthermore, a set-up was developed allowing for long-term (35 days) on-chip cell culture with benefits including continuous fluid-flow, low bubble formation risk, easy culture medium exchange inside the incubator and live cell imaging options. This on-chip coculture is a crucial advance towards developing in vitro bone remodeling models to facilitate drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A M Vis
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands.
| | - F Zhao
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Zienkiewicz Centre for Computational Engineering, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - E S R Bodelier
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - C M Bood
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - J Bulsink
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - M van Doeselaar
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | | | - K Ito
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - S Hofmann
- Orthopaedic Biomechanics, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems (ICMS), Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
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5
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Joshi IM, Mansouri M, Ahmed A, Simon RA, Bambizi PE, Desa DE, Elias TM, Brown EB, Abhyankar VV. Microengineering 3D Collagen Matrices with Tumor-Mimetic Gradients in Fiber Alignment. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.07.09.548253. [PMID: 37502844 PMCID: PMC10369918 DOI: 10.1101/2023.07.09.548253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
In the tumor microenvironment (TME), collagen fibers facilitate tumor cell migration through the extracellular matrix. Previous studies have focused on studying the responses of cells on uniformly aligned or randomly aligned collagen fibers. However, the in vivo environment also features spatial gradients in alignment, which arise from the local reorganization of the matrix architecture due to cell-induced traction forces. Although there has been extensive research on how cells respond to graded biophysical cues, such as stiffness, porosity, and ligand density, the cellular responses to physiological fiber alignment gradients have been largely unexplored. This is due, in part, to a lack of robust experimental techniques to create controlled alignment gradients in natural materials. In this study, we image tumor biopsy samples and characterize the alignment gradients present in the TME. To replicate physiological gradients, we introduce a first-of-its-kind biofabrication technique that utilizes a microfluidic channel with constricting and expanding geometry to engineer 3D collagen hydrogels with tunable fiber alignment gradients that range from sub-millimeter to millimeter length scales. Our modular approach allows easy access to the microengineered gradient gels, and we demonstrate that HUVECs migrate in response to the fiber architecture. We provide preliminary evidence suggesting that MDA-MB-231 cell aggregates, patterned onto a specific location on the alignment gradient, exhibit preferential migration towards increasing alignment. This finding suggests that alignment gradients could serve as an additional taxis cue in the ECM. Importantly, our study represents the first successful engineering of continuous gradients of fiber alignment in soft, natural materials. We anticipate that our user-friendly platform, which needs no specialized equipment, will offer new experimental capabilities to study the impact of fiber-based contact guidance on directed cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indranil M. Joshi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Mehran Mansouri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Adeel Ahmed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | - Richard A. Simon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
| | | | - Danielle E. Desa
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Tresa M. Elias
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Edward B. Brown
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY
| | - Vinay V. Abhyankar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY
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6
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Lomeli-Martin A, Ahamed N, Abhyankar VV, Lapizco-Encinas BH. Electropatterning-Contemporary developments for selective particle arrangements employing electrokinetics. Electrophoresis 2023; 44:884-909. [PMID: 37002779 PMCID: PMC10330388 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202200286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
The selective positioning and arrangement of distinct types of multiscale particles can be used in numerous applications in microfluidics, including integrated circuits, sensors and biochips. Electrokinetic (EK) techniques offer an extensive range of options for label-free manipulation and patterning of colloidal particles by exploiting the intrinsic electrical properties of the target of interest. EK-based techniques have been widely implemented in many recent studies, and various methodologies and microfluidic device designs have been developed to achieve patterning two- and three-dimensional (3D) patterned structures. This review provides an overview of the progress in electropatterning research during the last 5 years in the microfluidics arena. This article discusses the advances in the electropatterning of colloids, droplets, synthetic particles, cells, and gels. Each subsection analyzes the manipulation of the particles of interest via EK techniques such as electrophoresis and dielectrophoresis. The conclusions summarize recent advances and provide an outlook on the future of electropatterning in various fields of application, especially those with 3D arrangements as their end goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Lomeli-Martin
- Microscale Bioseparations Laboratory and Biomedical Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Nuzhet Ahamed
- Microscale Bioseparations Laboratory and Biomedical Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Vinay V. Abhyankar
- Biological Microsystems Laboratory and Biomedical Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Blanca H. Lapizco-Encinas
- Microscale Bioseparations Laboratory and Biomedical Engineering Department, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
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7
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Musgrove HB, Saleheen A, Zatorski JM, Arneja A, Luckey CJ, Pompano RR. A Scalable, Modular Degasser for Passive In-Line Removal of Bubbles from Biomicrofluidic Devices. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:435. [PMID: 36838135 PMCID: PMC9964747 DOI: 10.3390/mi14020435] [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: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Bubbles are a common cause of microfluidic malfunction, as they can perturb the fluid flow within the micro-sized features of a device. Since gas bubbles form easily within warm cell culture reagents, degassing is often necessary for biomicrofluidic systems. However, fabrication of a microscale degasser that can be used modularly with pre-existing chips may be cumbersome or challenging, especially for labs not equipped for traditional microfabrication, and current commercial options can be expensive. Here, we address the need for an affordable, accessible bubble trap that can be used in-line for continuous perfusion of organs-on-chip and other microfluidic cultures. We converted a previously described, manually fabricated PDMS degasser to allow scaled up, reproducible manufacturing by commercial machining or fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. After optimization, the machined and 3D printed degassers were found to be stable for >2 weeks under constant perfusion, without leaks. With a ~140 µL chamber volume, trapping capacity was extrapolated to allow for ~5-20 weeks of degassing depending on the rate of bubble formation. The degassers were biocompatible for use with cell culture, and they successfully prevented bubbles from reaching a downstream microfluidic device. Both degasser materials showed little to no leaching. The machined degasser did not absorb reagents, while the FDM printed degasser absorbed a small amount, and both maintained fluidic integrity from 1 µL/min to >1 mL/min of pressure-driven flow. Thus, these degassers can be fabricated in bulk and allow for long-term, efficient bubble removal in a simple microfluidic perfusion set-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah B. Musgrove
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA
| | - Amirus Saleheen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA
| | | | - Abhinav Arneja
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA
| | - Chance John Luckey
- Department of Pathology, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA
| | - Rebecca R. Pompano
- Department of Chemistry, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA
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8
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Damiati LA, El-Yaagoubi M, Damiati SA, Kodzius R, Sefat F, Damiati S. Role of Polymers in Microfluidic Devices. Polymers (Basel) 2022; 14:5132. [PMID: 36501526 PMCID: PMC9738615 DOI: 10.3390/polym14235132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Polymers are sustainable and renewable materials that are in high demand due to their excellent properties. Natural and synthetic polymers with high flexibility, good biocompatibility, good degradation rate, and stiffness are widely used for various applications, such as tissue engineering, drug delivery, and microfluidic chip fabrication. Indeed, recent advances in microfluidic technology allow the fabrication of polymeric matrix to construct microfluidic scaffolds for tissue engineering and to set up a well-controlled microenvironment for manipulating fluids and particles. In this review, polymers as materials for the fabrication of microfluidic chips have been highlighted. Successful models exploiting polymers in microfluidic devices to generate uniform particles as drug vehicles or artificial cells have been also discussed. Additionally, using polymers as bioink for 3D printing or as a matrix to functionalize the sensing surface in microfluidic devices has also been mentioned. The rapid progress made in the combination of polymers and microfluidics presents a low-cost, reproducible, and scalable approach for a promising future in the manufacturing of biomimetic scaffolds for tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laila A. Damiati
- Department of Biology, Collage of Science, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 23890, Saudi Arabia
| | - Marwa El-Yaagoubi
- Department of Pure and Applied Chemistry, University of Strathclyde, 295 Cathedral Street, Glasgow G1 1XL, UK
| | - Safa A. Damiati
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah 21589, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rimantas Kodzius
- Faculty of Medicine, Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU), 80539 Munich, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, 03101 Vilnius, Lithuania
| | - Farshid Sefat
- Interdisciplinary Research Centre in Polymer Science & Technology (Polymer IRC), University of Bradford, Bradford BD7 1DP, UK
- Department of Biomedical and Electronics Engineering, School of Engineering, University of Bradford, Bradford, BD7 1DP, UK
| | - Samar Damiati
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates
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9
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Mansouri M, Ahmed A, Ahmad SD, McCloskey MC, Joshi IM, Gaborski TR, Waugh RE, McGrath JL, Day SW, Abhyankar VV. The Modular µSiM Reconfigured: Integration of Microfluidic Capabilities to Study In Vitro Barrier Tissue Models under Flow. Adv Healthc Mater 2022; 11:e2200802. [PMID: 35953453 PMCID: PMC9798530 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202200802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic tissue barrier models have emerged to address the lack of physiological fluid flow in conventional "open-well" Transwell-like devices. However, microfluidic techniques have not achieved widespread usage in bioscience laboratories because they are not fully compatible with traditional experimental protocols. To advance barrier tissue research, there is a need for a platform that combines the key advantages of both conventional open-well and microfluidic systems. Here, a plug-and-play flow module is developed to introduce on-demand microfluidic flow capabilities to an open-well device that features a nanoporous membrane and live-cell imaging capabilities. The magnetic latching assembly of this design enables bi-directional reconfiguration and allows users to conduct an experiment in an open-well format with established protocols and then add or remove microfluidic capabilities as desired. This work also provides an experimentally-validated flow model to select flow conditions based on the experimental needs. As a proof-of-concept, flow-induced alignment of endothelial cells and the expression of shear-sensitive gene targets are demonstrated, and the different phases of neutrophil transmigration across a chemically stimulated endothelial monolayer under flow conditions are visualized. With these experimental capabilities, it is anticipated that both engineering and bioscience laboratories will adopt this reconfigurable design due to the compatibility with standard open-well protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehran Mansouri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Adeel Ahmed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - S. Danial Ahmad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - Molly C. McCloskey
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - Indranil M. Joshi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Thomas R. Gaborski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Richard E. Waugh
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - James L. McGrath
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY, 14627, USA
| | - Steven W. Day
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Vinay V. Abhyankar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
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10
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Akbari Kenari M, Rezvani Ghomi E, Akbari Kenari A, Arabi SMS, Deylami J, Ramakrishna S. Biomedical applications of microfluidic devices: Achievements and challenges. POLYM ADVAN TECHNOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pat.5847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Akbari Kenari
- Department of Chemical Engineering Polytechnique Montreal Montreal Quebec Canada
| | - Erfan Rezvani Ghomi
- Center for Nanotechnology and Sustainability, Department of Mechanical Engineering National University of Singapore Singapore Singapore
| | | | | | - Javad Deylami
- School of Physical and Mathematical Sciences Nanyang Technological University Singapore Singapore
| | - Seeram Ramakrishna
- Center for Nanotechnology and Sustainability, Department of Mechanical Engineering National University of Singapore Singapore Singapore
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11
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Lai X, Yang M, Wu H, Li D. Modular Microfluidics: Current Status and Future Prospects. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:1363. [PMID: 36014285 PMCID: PMC9414757 DOI: 10.3390/mi13081363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 08/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This review mainly studies the development status, limitations, and future directions of modular microfluidic systems. Microfluidic technology is an important tool platform for scientific research and plays an important role in various fields. With the continuous development of microfluidic applications, conventional monolithic microfluidic chips show more and more limitations. A modular microfluidic system is a system composed of interconnected, independent modular microfluidic chips, which are easy to use, highly customizable, and on-site deployable. In this paper, the current forms of modular microfluidic systems are classified and studied. The popular fabrication techniques for modular blocks, the major application scenarios of modular microfluidics, and the limitations of modular techniques are also discussed. Lastly, this review provides prospects for the future direction of modular microfluidic technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochen Lai
- School of Automation, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Mingpeng Yang
- School of Automation, Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Hao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Dachao Li
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
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12
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Hsu MC, Mansouri M, Ahamed NNN, Larson SM, Joshi IM, Ahmed A, Borkholder DA, Abhyankar VV. A miniaturized 3D printed pressure regulator (µPR) for microfluidic cell culture applications. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10769. [PMID: 35750792 PMCID: PMC9232624 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15087-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Well-defined fluid flows are the hallmark feature of microfluidic culture systems and enable precise control over biophysical and biochemical cues at the cellular scale. Microfluidic flow control is generally achieved using displacement-based (e.g., syringe or peristaltic pumps) or pressure-controlled techniques that provide numerous perfusion options, including constant, ramped, and pulsed flows. However, it can be challenging to integrate these large form-factor devices and accompanying peripherals into incubators or other confined environments. In addition, microfluidic culture studies are primarily carried out under constant perfusion conditions and more complex flow capabilities are often unused. Thus, there is a need for a simplified flow control platform that provides standard perfusion capabilities and can be easily integrated into incubated environments. To this end, we introduce a tunable, 3D printed micro pressure regulator (µPR) and show that it can provide robust flow control capabilities when combined with a battery-powered miniature air pump to support microfluidic applications. We detail the design and fabrication of the µPR and: (i) demonstrate a tunable outlet pressure range relevant for microfluidic applications (1-10 kPa), (ii) highlight dynamic control capabilities in a microfluidic network, (iii) and maintain human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in a multi-compartment culture device under continuous perfusion conditions. We anticipate that our 3D printed fabrication approach and open-access designs will enable customized µPRs that can support a broad range of microfluidic applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Chun Hsu
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Mehran Mansouri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Nuzhet N N Ahamed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Stephen M Larson
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Indranil M Joshi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Adeel Ahmed
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - David A Borkholder
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Vinay V Abhyankar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA.
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Perfusion in Organ-on-Chip Models and Its Applicability to the Replication of Spermatogenesis In Vitro. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105402. [PMID: 35628214 PMCID: PMC9141186 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Organ/organoid-on-a-chip (OoC) technologies aim to replicate aspects of the in vivo environment in vitro, at the scale of microns. Mimicking the spatial in vivo structure is important and can provide a deeper understanding of the cell–cell interactions and the mechanisms that lead to normal/abnormal function of a given organ. It is also important for disease models and drug/toxin testing. Incorporating active fluid flow in chip models enables many more possibilities. Active flow can provide physical cues, improve intercellular communication, and allow for the dynamic control of the environment, by enabling the efficient introduction of biological factors, drugs, or toxins. All of this is in addition to the fundamental role of flow in supplying nutrition and removing waste metabolites. This review presents an overview of the different types of fluid flow and how they are incorporated in various OoC models. The review then describes various methods and techniques of incorporating perfusion networks into OoC models, including self-assembly, bioprinting techniques, and utilizing sacrificial gels. The second part of the review focuses on the replication of spermatogenesis in vitro; the complex process whereby spermatogonial stem cells differentiate into mature sperm. A general overview is given of the various approaches that have been used. The few studies that incorporated microfluidics or vasculature are also described. Finally, a future perspective is given on elements from perfusion-based models that are currently used in models of other organs and can be applied to the field of in vitro spermatogenesis. For example, adopting tubular blood vessel models to mimic the morphology of the seminiferous tubules and incorporating vasculature in testis-on-a-chip models. Improving these models would improve our understanding of the process of spermatogenesis. It may also potentially provide novel therapeutic strategies for pre-pubertal cancer patients who need aggressive chemotherapy that can render them sterile, as well asfor a subset of non-obstructive azoospermic patients with maturation arrest, whose testes do not produce sperm but still contain some of the progenitor cells.
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Yang M, Sun N, Luo Y, Lai X, Li P, Zhang Z. Emergence of debubblers in microfluidics: A critical review. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2022; 16:031503. [PMID: 35757146 PMCID: PMC9217167 DOI: 10.1063/5.0088551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/31/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Bubbles in microfluidics-even those that appear to be negligibly small-are pervasive and responsible for the failure of many biological and chemical experiments. For instance, they block current conduction, damage cell membranes, and interfere with detection results. To overcome this unavoidable and intractable problem, researchers have developed various methods for capturing and removing bubbles from microfluidics. Such methods are multifarious and their working principles are very different from each other. In this review, bubble-removing methods are divided into two broad categories: active debubblers (that require external auxiliary equipment) and passive debubblers (driven by natural processes). In each category, three main types of methods are discussed along with their advantages and disadvantages. Among the active debubblers, those assisted by lasers, acoustic generators, and negative pressure pumps are discussed. Among the passive debubblers, those driven by buoyancy, the characteristics of gas-liquid interfaces, and the hydrophilic and hydrophobic properties of materials are discussed. Finally, the challenges and prospects of the bubble-removal technologies are reviewed to refer researchers to microfluidics and inspire further investigations in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nan Sun
- School of Automation, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | | | | | - Peiru Li
- School of Automation, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhang
- School of Automation, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing 210044, China
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Ahmed A, Joshi IM, Larson S, Mansouri M, Gholizadeh S, Allahyari Z, Forouzandeh F, Borkholder DA, Gaborski TR, Abhyankar VV. Microengineered 3D Collagen Gels with Independently Tunable Fiber Anisotropy and Directionality. ADVANCED MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES 2021; 6:2001186. [PMID: 34150990 PMCID: PMC8211114 DOI: 10.1002/admt.202001186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Cellular processes, including differentiation, proliferation, and migration, have been linked to the alignment (anisotropy) and orientation (directionality) of collagen fibers in the native extracellular matrix (ECM). Given the critical role that biophysical cell-matrix interactions play in regulating biological functions, several microfluidic-based methods have been used to establish 3D collagen gels with defined fiber properties; these gels have helped to establish quantitative relationships between structural ECM cues and observed cell responses. Although existing microfluidic fabrication methods provide excellent definition over collagen fiber anisotropy, they have not demonstrated the independent control over fiber anisotropy and directionality necessary to replicate in vivo collagen architecture. Therefore, to advance collagen microengineering capabilities, we present a user-friendly technology platform that uses controlled fluid flows within a non-uniform microfluidic channel network to create collagen landscapes that can be tuned as a function of extensional strain rate. Herein, we demonstrate capabilities to i) control the degree of fiber anisotropy, ii) create spatial gradients in fiber anisotropy, iii) independently define fiber directionality, and iv) generate multi-material interfaces within a 3D environment. We then address the practical issue of integrating cells into microfluidic systems by using a peel-off template technique to provide direct access to microengineered collagen gels, and demonstrate that cells respond to the defined properties of the landscape. Finally, the platform's modular capability is highlighted by integrating a sub-micrometer thick porous parylene membrane onto the microengineered collagen as a method to define cell-substrate interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeel Ahmed
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Indranil M Joshi
- Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Stephen Larson
- Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Mehran Mansouri
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Shayan Gholizadeh
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Zahra Allahyari
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Farzad Forouzandeh
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - David A Borkholder
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Thomas R Gaborski
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
- Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
| | - Vinay V Abhyankar
- Microsystems Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
- Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, NY, 14623, USA
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Niculescu AG, Chircov C, Bîrcă AC, Grumezescu AM. Fabrication and Applications of Microfluidic Devices: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:2011. [PMID: 33670545 PMCID: PMC7921936 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 145] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2021] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidics is a relatively newly emerged field based on the combined principles of physics, chemistry, biology, fluid dynamics, microelectronics, and material science. Various materials can be processed into miniaturized chips containing channels and chambers in the microscale range. A diverse repertoire of methods can be chosen to manufacture such platforms of desired size, shape, and geometry. Whether they are used alone or in combination with other devices, microfluidic chips can be employed in nanoparticle preparation, drug encapsulation, delivery, and targeting, cell analysis, diagnosis, and cell culture. This paper presents microfluidic technology in terms of the available platform materials and fabrication techniques, also focusing on the biomedical applications of these remarkable devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adelina-Gabriela Niculescu
- Faculty of Engineering in Foreign Languages, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Cristina Chircov
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.C.); (A.C.B.)
| | - Alexandra Cătălina Bîrcă
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.C.); (A.C.B.)
| | - Alexandru Mihai Grumezescu
- Faculty of Applied Chemistry and Materials Science, University Politehnica of Bucharest, 011061 Bucharest, Romania; (C.C.); (A.C.B.)
- Research Institute of the University of Bucharest—ICUB, University of Bucharest, 050657 Bucharest, Romania
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Oh KW. Microfluidic Devices for Biomedical Applications: Biomedical Microfluidic Devices 2019. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11040370. [PMID: 32244684 PMCID: PMC7230227 DOI: 10.3390/mi11040370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 03/30/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Kwang W Oh
- SMALL (Sensors and MicroActuators Learning Lab), Department of Electrical Engineering & Department of Biomedical Engineering, University at Buffalo, State University of New York (SUNY-Buffalo), Buffalo, NY 14260, USA
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