Ultrasound patterning technologies for studying vascular morphogenesis in 3D

Investigations in this report demonstrate the versatility of ultrasound-based patterning and imaging technologies for studying determinants of vascular morphogenesis in 3D environments. Forces associated with ultrasound standing wave fields (USWFs) were employed to non-invasively and volumetrically pattern endothelial cells within 3D collagen hydrogels. Patterned hydrogels were composed of parallel bands of endothelial cells located at nodal regions of the USWF and spaced at intervals equal to one half wavelength of the incident sound field. Acoustic parameters were adjusted to vary the spatial dimensions of the endothelial bands, and effects on microvessel morphogenesis were analyzed. High-frequency ultrasound imaging techniques were used to image and quantify the spacing, width and density of initial planar cell bands. Analysis of resultant microvessel networks showed that vessel width, orientation, density and branching activity were strongly influenced by the initial 3D organization of planar bands and, hence, could be controlled by acoustic parameters used for patterning. In summary, integration of USWF-patterning and high-frequency ultrasound imaging tools enabled fabrication of vascular constructs with defined microvessel size and orientation, providing insight into how spatial cues in 3D influence vascular morphogenesis.