Scalable Microfluidic Platform for Flexible Configuration of and Experiments with Microtissue Multiorgan Models

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Microfluidics
• In vitro toxicology

Background:

• Microphysiological systems (MPS) offer enhanced predictive power for in vitro substance testing by recapitulating human physiology.
• Translating academic MPS developments into industrial applications faces implementation challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an injection-molded microfluidic microtissue (MT) culture chip designed for industrial scalability and ease of use.
• To overcome limitations of previous MPS designs, particularly regarding material properties and operational complexity.

Main Methods:

• Developed a polystyrene-based microfluidic chip with two channels, each containing 10 MT compartments, adhering to microtiter plate standards.
• Implemented a gravity-driven flow system actuated by tilting, eliminating the need for external pumps or tubing.
• Utilized a top-open compartment design for efficient MT loading, oxygenation, and high-resolution imaging.

Main Results:

• The polystyrene material offers low adsorption/absorption of hydrophobic molecules, ensuring precise experimental control.
• The tilting mechanism allows for adjustable, pump-free flow rates.
• Demonstrated successful co-culture of liver and tumor MTs within the same medium channel, showcasing versatility.

Conclusions:

• The novel microfluidic MT culture chip provides a scalable, user-friendly platform for advanced in vitro substance testing.
• Its design facilitates reliable, large-scale production and precise control, bridging the gap between academic research and industrial application.