A microfluidic device designed to induce media flow throughout pancreatic islets while limiting shear-induced damage

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Bioengineering
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Pancreatic islets require vascularization by endothelial cells (ECs) for glucose sensing and hormone secretion.
• In vitro culture leads to EC loss, hindering study of islet cell interactions and limiting transplant efficacy.
• Previous microfluidic approaches showed benefits but also caused shear-induced damage to peripheral islet cells.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a microfluidic device that preserves islet endothelial cell morphology and function in vitro.
• To create a platform for studying the interaction between pancreatic beta cells and ECs.
• To optimize islet preparation for transplantation.

Main Methods:

• Designed a microfluidic device with cup-shaped nozzles to trap islets, controlling flow velocity.
• Cultured islets within the device to assess endothelial cell morphology and beta-cell function.
• Measured glucose-stimulated calcium (Ca2+) responses to evaluate cell viability and function.

Main Results:

• The hydrodynamic trap design enhanced media flow through islets while limiting shear stress on the perimeter.
• Islets cultured in the device exhibited improved endothelial cell morphology.
• Glucose-stimulated calcium responses in beta cells remained unaffected, indicating preserved function.

Conclusions:

• The novel microfluidic device successfully maintains pancreatic islet endothelial cell health in vitro.
• This technology provides a new tool for studying islet cell interactions and improving islet quality for transplantation.
• The device can prime islets, potentially enhancing outcomes for Type 1 diabetes treatment.