Biomimetic Microfluidic Device with Non-linear Flow Path
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell culture devices fail to effectively replicate the three-dimensional microarchitecture and physiological organ-level functions of human organs, limiting their ability to culture multiple cell types and simulate complex microenvironments, such as cell-cell and cell-microbe interactions, due to short residence times of culture medium and limited control over micro physiological conditioning.
Innovation Solution
A biomimetic microfluidic device with multiple parallel cell microchannels separated by elastic porous ECM-coated basement membranes, featuring a triple-layered microenvironment to mimic lumen, mesenchyme, and capillary vasculature, along with a pneumatic mechanoactuation system for mechanical deformation, and baffles for dynamic mixing and extended fluid residence time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Duration of action of moving object
If existing cell culture devices are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but residence time of culture medium is extremely limited (few minutes) and multiple cell types cannot be effectively cultured
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple parallel microchannels (first microchannel, second microchannel, third microchannel) separated by porous membranes, allowing different cell types to be cultured in separate compartments while maintaining extended residence time for culture medium in each channel
Solution Approach 2:
Porous membranes are embedded within the microchannel structure to separate different microchannels while allowing nutrient and signal molecule transport, creating a nested configuration where membranes are integrated into the channel walls
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing devices are used, then manufacturing simplicity is maintained, but ability to independently manipulate micro physiological conditioning of individual compartments is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The device creates independently controllable compartments (first, second, and third microchannels) separated by porous membranes, allowing independent manipulation of micro physiological conditions in each compartment while maintaining overall device functionality
Solution Approach 2:
Each microchannel compartment can have different physiological conditions (flow rates, cell types, nutrient concentrations) optimized for specific cell types, with the porous membranes allowing selective transport between compartments
3Reliability
If existing devices are used, then device simplicity is maintained, but cell-cell and cell-microbe communications cannot be effectively supported
Solution Approach 1:
Porous membranes separate different microchannels while allowing transport of nutrients, signaling molecules, and direct cell-to-cell contact, enabling reliable cell-cell and cell-microbe communications while maintaining compartmentalization
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple parallel microchannels allow different cell types (epithelial cells, microbial cells, immune cells) to be cultured in separate but interconnected compartments, facilitating controlled cell interactions through the porous membrane interfaces
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 device provides a robust platform for culturing multiple cell types, emulating organ-level physiological responses and enabling spatiotemporal control over microenvironmental conditions, enhancing cell-cell and cell-microbe interactions, and supporting the growth of various human and microbial cells with physiological relevance.
Implementation Method 1
a portion of the first membrane is porous and flexible
Implementation Method 2
the first membrane is configured to support adhesion of a plurality of living cells
Implementation Method 3
the first central microchannel comprises a non-linear flow path for the first fluid
Implementation Method 4
the first central microchannel comprises a plurality of baffles
Implementation Method 5
the first chamber and the second chamber are configured to exert a compression force on the first membrane
Implementation Method 6
the first chamber and the second chamber are configured to exert a tension force on the first membrane
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods cell culture are disclosed herein. In particular embodiments, the cell culture devices include multi-channel devices with a non-linear flow path that recapitulates the three-dimensional microarchitecture and physiological organ-level functions of human organs with cellular and molecular resolution.