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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Patterning of Embryonic Stem Cells Using the Bio Flip Chip
05:25

Patterning of Embryonic Stem Cells Using the Bio Flip Chip

Published on: October 1, 2007

Patterning of embryonic stem cells using the bio flip chip.

Nikhil Mittal1, Stephanie Flavin, Joel Voldman

  • 1Dept. of Physics, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA. nmittal@mit.edu

Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|November 8, 2008
PubMed
Summary

Researchers developed a novel method using the Bio Flip Chip (BFC) to precisely control cell-cell signaling environments. This technique precisely patterns cells, offering a new way to study cell communication in biological processes like stem cell self-renewal.

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Area of Science:

  • Cell biology
  • Biotechnology
  • Stem cell research

Background:

  • Cell-cell interactions (diffusible and juxtacrine signaling) are crucial for biological processes like tumor growth and stem cell differentiation.
  • Existing methods to modulate cell signaling in vitro, such as varying cell seeding density or using molecular inhibitors, have limitations in precision and scope.
  • Precisely controlling the local cellular environment is essential for understanding and manipulating cell communication.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To introduce a novel microfabrication-based approach for precise spatial control of cell-cell signaling.
  • To demonstrate a method for modulating the local cellular environment by patterning cells with defined numbers and locations.
  • To provide a complementary tool for studying diffusible and juxtacrine signaling in biological systems.

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Mapping the Emergent Spatial Organization of Mammalian Cells using Micropatterns and Quantitative Imaging
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Mapping the Emergent Spatial Organization of Mammalian Cells using Micropatterns and Quantitative Imaging

Published on: April 30, 2019

Photobleaching Assays (FRAP & FLIP) to Measure Chromatin Protein Dynamics in Living Embryonic Stem Cells
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Photobleaching Assays (FRAP & FLIP) to Measure Chromatin Protein Dynamics in Living Embryonic Stem Cells

Published on: June 29, 2011

Related Experiment Videos

Last Updated: Jun 28, 2026

Patterning of Embryonic Stem Cells Using the Bio Flip Chip
05:25

Patterning of Embryonic Stem Cells Using the Bio Flip Chip

Published on: October 1, 2007

Mapping the Emergent Spatial Organization of Mammalian Cells using Micropatterns and Quantitative Imaging
09:56

Mapping the Emergent Spatial Organization of Mammalian Cells using Micropatterns and Quantitative Imaging

Published on: April 30, 2019

Photobleaching Assays (FRAP & FLIP) to Measure Chromatin Protein Dynamics in Living Embryonic Stem Cells
09:18

Photobleaching Assays (FRAP & FLIP) to Measure Chromatin Protein Dynamics in Living Embryonic Stem Cells

Published on: June 29, 2011

Main Methods:

  • Utilized the Bio Flip Chip (BFC), a microfabricated silicone device with microwells for precise cell loading.
  • Developed a cell patterning technique by pipetting cells onto the BFC, washing away excess, and transferring patterned cells to a substrate.
  • Demonstrated the compatibility of the BFC method with various substrates and its ability to preserve cell proliferation and migration.

Main Results:

  • Successfully patterned mouse embryonic stem cells onto tissue-culture polystyrene using the BFC.
  • Showcased the BFC's ability to precisely control cell distribution and local cell-cell interactions.
  • Validated the method's non-disruptive nature, allowing for natural cell behaviors like proliferation and migration.

Conclusions:

  • The Bio Flip Chip (BFC) offers a unique and effective method for precise cell patterning and modulation of cell-cell signaling.
  • This technique provides a powerful new tool for researchers studying cell communication in developmental biology, regenerative medicine, and disease.
  • The BFC method is versatile, compatible with various substrates, and preserves essential cell functions, making it broadly applicable in cell-based assays.