Simulation of in-vivo-equivalent epithelial barriers using a micro fluidic device

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cell Biology
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Current cell culture models often fail to accurately represent in vivo biological systems.
• Limitations include single-cell type cultures and inadequate environmental conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a versatile modular system for simulating in vitro cell barriers, such as mucous layers.
• To enable the co-culture of different communicating cell types within microfluidic channels.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of micro-structured polymer sheets using hot embossing, with stamps made via UV-lithography/electroforming or micro milling.
• A microfluidic system with modular containers and continuous medium supply via a pump system.
• Orthogonal arrangement of micro-structured polycarbonate sheets separated by a transmissible membrane to induce cross-flow.

Main Results:

• Successfully simulated the intestinal mucosa model using epithelial cells and enteric nervous system primary neurons.
• Demonstrated the ability to maintain mono-cultures for 5 days and co-cultures for 4 days.
• Highlighted the system's variability in channel geometry, module capacity, and membrane pore sizes.

Conclusions:

• The developed system offers a sophisticated in vitro model for simulating diverse epithelial layers.
• This model effectively accounts for specific biological properties and cell-cell interactions.
• Enables more accurate in vivo-like cellular environment studies.