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Efficient formation of uniform-sized embryoid bodies using a compartmentalized microchannel device
Yu-suke Torisawa1, Bor-han Chueh, Dongeun Huh
1Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
Lab on a Chip
|June 1, 2007
Summary
Researchers developed a microfluidic system for synchronized formation of uniform embryoid bodies (EBs). This method offers controlled EB size and timing, crucial for embryonic stem cell differentiation.
Area of Science:
- Stem Cell Biology
- Biotechnology
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Embryoid body (EB) formation is essential for differentiating embryonic stem cells (ESCs).
- Controlling EB size and formation timing is critical for ESC differentiation.
- Current EB formation methods are often tedious and yield heterogeneous sizes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a microfluidic system for synchronized and uniform EB formation.
- To enable controlled EB size by adjusting microchannel dimensions.
- To facilitate subsequent EB treatment and differentiation in a compartmentalized system.
Main Methods:
- A microfluidic device with two channels separated by a cell-adhesion-resistant semi-porous membrane was designed.
- Embryonic stem cells were introduced into the upper channel for self-aggregation.
- EB size was controlled by altering microchannel cross-sectional dimensions.
Main Results:
- The microfluidic system produced uniformly-sized embryoid bodies.
- EB size was directly controllable by modifying microchannel dimensions.
- The semi-porous membrane allowed reagent treatment of EBs without washout.
Conclusions:
- This microfluidic system provides a simple, robust method for controlled EB formation.
- The system facilitates synchronized ESC differentiation.
- It offers a chip-compatible format for ES cell processing.
