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Evaluation of Cancer Stem Cell Migration Using Compartmentalizing Microfluidic Devices and Live Cell Imaging
Published on: December 23, 2011
Multi-step microfluidic device for studying cancer metastasis.
K C Chaw1, M Manimaran, E H Tay
1Institute of Bioengineering and Nanotechnology, 31 Biopolis Way, The Nanos, #04-01, 138669, Singapore.
Lab on a Chip
|July 27, 2007
Summary
This study developed a microfluidic device to analyze tumor cell deformation and extravasation. The device revealed that while cell deformation impacts viability, it doesn't hinder motility, with barriers independently inhibiting extravasation.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cell Biology
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Tumor cell extravasation is a critical step in metastasis.
- Understanding the mechanical and biological changes during extravasation is essential.
- Existing methods lack the ability to study the sequential events of cell deformation and transmigration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a multi-step microfluidic device for studying primary tumor cell deformation and extravasation.
- To quantify the effects of mechanical deformation and biological barriers on tumor cell behavior.
- To analyze the impact of Matrigel and endothelial lining on cell migration and viability.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a multi-step microfluidic device with Matrigel-coated microgaps and human microvascular endothelial cells (HMECs).
- Culturing and analysis of HepG2, HeLa, and MDA-MB 435S tumor cell lines within the device.
- Quantification of cell deformation, viability, doubling time, and migration rates under various barrier conditions.
Main Results:
- Cell deformation significantly reduced tumor cell viability and increased doubling times.
- Cell deformation did not significantly reduce cell motility.
- Both Matrigel and HMEC lining independently inhibited tumor cell extravasation, affecting migration rate and transmigration percentage.
Conclusions:
- The developed microfluidic device effectively models tumor cell extravasation.
- Mechanical stress during deformation impacts tumor cell biology, but not motility.
- Extracellular matrix and endothelial barriers play crucial, independent roles in preventing tumor cell metastasis.
