Side-View 3D Cell Culture Device for Z-Axis Observation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3D cell culture methods face challenges such as difficulty in observing the z-axis structure of cell samples, complex operation of microfluidic systems, limited nutrient diffusion leading to restricted 3D thickness, and scarcity of starting cells due to small culture dish sizes, which hinder effective biochemical testing and analysis.
Innovation Solution
A culture device comprising a pair of polycarbonate plates forming an incubation cassette with a U-shaped supply channel and microstructure, allowing for direct side-view observation of multi-layered cellular samples without additional equipment, enabling real-time monitoring and long-term nutrient supply without frequent solution changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional cell culture dishes are used, then operation is simple, but z-axis structure observation is difficult and requires freezing and cutting sections
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from traditional top-down 2D observation to side-view 3D observation by designing the culture dish with transparent side walls and positioning the cell culture layer parallel to the viewing direction. This dimensional change enables direct optical observation of z-axis cellular structures without sectioning, while maintaining simple operation procedures.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If microfluidic culture systems are used, then z-axis observation is enabled, but additional special equipment and complex operation are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential function of z-axis observation from complex microfluidic systems by using a simple transparent side-view design. This removes the need for pumps, hoses, and other auxiliary equipment, achieving depth observation through straightforward optical access while eliminating device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The culture dish structure itself provides the observation capability through its transparent side walls, eliminating the need for external observation equipment. The system serves its own observation needs through its inherent design rather than requiring separate detection devices.
3Shape
If layer-by-layer scaffold culture is used, then 3D structure is formed, but special materials and complicated stacking operation are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a disposable transparent culture dish with integrated side-view capability, eliminating the need for reusable scaffolds and complex assembly procedures. The single-use design provides 3D culture functionality without requiring material stacking or special scaffold materials, simplifying operation while achieving the desired 3D structure.
4Quantity of substance
If small-sized cell culture dishes are used, then cell number requirement is reduced, but nutrient solution volume is limited and frequent replacement is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a multi-well plate design where multiple culture chambers are arranged in a three-dimensional configuration. This allows parallel cultivation of multiple cell samples in a compact footprint, increasing the effective nutrient solution volume available to each well while reducing the total number of separate dishes required, thereby decreasing replacement frequency.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a culture device for biochemical testing. The culture device includes a first plate and a second plate, and the second plate is opposite to the first plate. The first plate and the second plate form an incubation cassette and a supply channel, and the incubation cassette is connected to the supply channel by a microstructure. The present invention can provide side views of multi-layered cellular samples, such as corneal tissue, and can be easily combined with other techniques for more comprehensive detection. In addition, applicable industries or products include: cell culture devices, in vitro clinical specimen culture, 3D cell culture, high-throughput drug screening, tumor invasion assessment, cell biology research, personalized precision medicine, etc.