A three-dimensional method for morphological analysis and flow velocity estimation in microvasculature on-a-chip

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Microfluidics
• Quantitative Biology

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) imaging is common for visualizing in vitro vascular models.
• Quantitative analysis of these models typically relies on 2D methods, limiting data extraction.
• There is a need for advanced analytical tools to leverage 3D imaging data for comprehensive in vitro vascular model assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel algorithm (μVES) for quantitative analysis of 3D vascularized in vitro models.
• To compare quantitative metrics derived from 3D analysis with traditional 2D estimations.
• To assess the functional and morphological replication of in vivo microvasculature by in vitro models using 3D analysis.

Main Methods:

• Development of the μVES (micro VEsse l algorithm for 3D data analysis.
• Computation of morphological parameters: geometry, diameter, length, tortuosity, and eccentricity.
• Measurement of intravascular flow velocity and calculation of wall shear stress.

Main Results:

• The μVES algorithm successfully quantifies morphological and hemodynamic parameters from 3D vascular data.
• In vitro models replicate in vivo intravascular fluid flow velocity but exhibit lower wall shear stress.
• 3D analysis revealed significant differences in metrics compared to 2D estimations, enabling new indices like vessel eccentricity.

Conclusions:

• The μVES algorithm provides a robust method for quantitative analysis of 3D vascularized in vitro models.
• 3D analysis offers a more comprehensive understanding of microvasculature compared to 2D methods.
• μVES capabilities are applicable to diverse in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo microvasculature studies.