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Droplet Microfluidic Optimisation Using Micropipette Characterisation of Bio-Instructive Polymeric Surfactants
Charlotte A Henshaw1,2, Adam A Dundas2,3, Valentina Cuzzucoli Crucitti3
1Molecular Therapeutics and Formulation, School of Pharmacy, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK.
Molecules (Basel, Switzerland)
|June 2, 2021
Summary
Optimizing polymeric surfactants in droplet microfluidics using micropipette manipulation yields monodisperse, bio-instructive poly(d,l-lactic acid) microparticles. This method reduces trial-and-error, ensuring tailored particle properties for advanced applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Engineering
- Microfluidics
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Droplet microfluidics enables tailored microparticle production with monodispersity.
- Optimization of bio-instructive polymeric surfactants in these systems is often trial-and-error.
- Achieving specific surface chemistries on microparticles requires precise control over formulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To optimize polymeric surfactant concentration for producing biodegradable poly(d,l-lactic acid) (PDLLA) microparticles.
- To utilize micropipette manipulation for efficient optimization of microfluidic systems.
- To create microparticles with unique, bio-instructive surface chemistries.
Main Methods:
- Employed micropipette manipulation techniques for precise control and optimization.
- Investigated the interfacial tension effects of bespoke three-dimensional polymeric surfactants.
- Determined optimal concentrations of poly(vinyl acetate-co-alcohol) (PVA) for system stabilization.
Main Results:
- Identified a low concentration (0.1% w/v) of PVA as critical for adequate microparticle stabilization.
- Successfully produced monodisperse poly(d,l-lactic acid) microparticles.
- Maintained the desired bio-instructive surface chemistry throughout the process.
Conclusions:
- Micropipette manipulation offers an efficient, non-trial-and-error method for optimizing droplet microfluidics.
- Tailored bio-instructive microparticles can be reproducibly fabricated using optimized polymeric surfactants.
- This approach facilitates the development of advanced biomaterials with controlled surface functionalities.
