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Characterizing the effects of cell settling on bioprinter output
Matthew E Pepper1, Vidya Seshadri, Timothy C Burg
1Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Clemson University, SC 29634, USA.
Biofabrication
|January 20, 2012
Summary
Bioprinter output consistency is crucial for cell-based therapies. This study investigated cell settling and cartridge usage effects on cell number per drop, revealing biological factors impacting consistency.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Bioprinting
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Consistent cell population size is essential for bioprinted samples.
- Cell settling in the reservoir can affect cell concentration over time.
- Thermal inkjet bioprinters face challenges in maintaining uniform cell output.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the time variation in bioprinter output (cells per drop).
- To understand the impact of cell settling and cartridge usage on bioprinting consistency.
- To differentiate between physical settling and biological factors affecting cell delivery.
Main Methods:
- Studied time variation in cells per printed drop using a thermal inkjet bioprinter (HP26A cartridge).
- Employed a mathematical model to predict cell concentration changes due to settling.
- Conducted printing experiments with D1 murine stem cells and polystyrene latex beads.
Main Results:
- Bead output generally matched the model's prediction based on settling.
- Cell output initially increased with settling but peaked and then decreased.
- Decreased cell output correlated with cartridge use cycles, suggesting biological adhesion.
Conclusions:
- Cell settling influences bioprinter output, as predicted by a mathematical model.
- Biological factors, likely cell adhesion, cause a decrease in cell output over time, distinct from bead behavior.
- Further research is needed to identify the specific biological mechanisms affecting cell adhesion and output consistency.
