3D Scaffold Stretching via Elastic Substrate Actuation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for applying cyclic stretch to cells in tissue engineering are limited by their two-dimensional nature, which does not accurately replicate the physiological forces experienced by cells in three-dimensional tissues, necessitating a solution for exerting dynamic mechanical stimuli on cells within a 3D scaffold.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for applying controlled dynamic forces to a three-dimensional tissue scaffold using a stretchable substrate and actuator system, allowing for cyclic stretch in a biocompatible and sterilizable environment, compatible with cell culture conditions, to simulate physiological forces on cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cells are cultured directly on an elastic membrane in 2D systems, then cyclic stretch can be applied to cells, but the system does not accurately replicate physiological forces experienced by cells in 3D tissues
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from 2D cell culture on elastic membranes to 3D cell culture within porous scaffolds. The scaffolds are mounted on stretchable substrates that can be cyclically stretched, enabling cells to experience physiological forces in a three-dimensional configuration that better mimics in vivo conditions while maintaining the ability to apply controlled mechanical stimuli
2Adaptability or versatility
If a stretchable substrate is used to support a 3D scaffold, then cyclic stretch can be applied to the scaffold, but the substrate must maintain biocompatibility and withstand sterilization techniques
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs stretchable substrates made from biocompatible materials such as polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) that can be sterilized using multiple techniques including autoclaving, supercritical fluid CO2, UV illumination, and irradiation. The material properties are selected to ensure biocompatibility while maintaining the ability to withstand various sterilization methods without compromising cellular viability or substrate functionality
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables the application of physiologically relevant forces to cells within a 3D scaffold, promoting biological responses such as cell alignment, gene expression changes, and protein secretion, effectively mimicking in vivo conditions and enhancing tissue engineering applications.
Implementation Method 1
The substrate can be strained under an applied force, including in elongation and/or compression, and return to a resting state once the applied force is removed
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are stretch devices and related methods for controlled three-dimensional stretching of scaffolds supported on a stretchable substrate. A stretchable substrate is capable of receiving the three-dimensional scaffold, and a stretchable substrate holder is configured to connect to the stretchable substrate. An actuator is connected to the stretchable substrate holder to exert a cyclic stretch on the stretchable substrate and periodically stretch the three-dimensional scaffold connected to the stretchable substrate. A sample holder is configured to immerse the three-dimensional scaffold in a tissue culture media.