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Well-Controlled Cell-Trapping Systems for Investigating Heterogeneous Cell-Cell Interactions
Koki Kamiya1, Yuta Abe1,2, Kosuke Inoue1,2
1Artificial Cell Membrane Systems Group, Kanagawa Institute of Industrial Science and Technology, KSP EAST 303, 3-2-1, Sakado, Takatsu-ku, Kawasaki, Kanagawa, 213-0012, Japan.
Advanced Healthcare Materials
|January 26, 2018
Summary
This study introduces a novel microfluidic device for precise assembly of multiple cell types, advancing the study of complex cell-cell interactions. The new system significantly improves the accuracy of ordered cell patterning for research.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Cell Biology
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Microfluidic systems enable single-cell patterning for interaction studies.
- Patterning multiple cell types for heterogeneous interactions is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- Develop a cell-trapping device for controlled assembly of multiple cell types.
- Investigate heterogeneous cell-cell interactions using precisely patterned cells.
Main Methods:
- A microfluidic device with a movable parylene sheet and SU-8 microcomb was designed.
- Gentle downward flow facilitated cell trapping in defined apertures.
- Cell-cell contacts were assessed via calcein transfer through connexin nanopores.
Main Results:
- The device successfully assembled three different cell types in a controlled order.
- The ordered cell patterning rate increased from 0.74% to 27.9% with the sliding parylene system.
- Cell-cell contact occurrence between assembled cell types was verified.
Conclusions:
- The developed cell-trapping device enables precise patterning of multiple cell types.
- This tool is valuable for studying complex heterogeneous cell-cell interactions.
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