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Standalone cell culture microfluidic device-based microphysiological system for automated cell observation and
Hiroshi Kimura1, Hiroko Nakamura1, Tomomi Goto1
1Micro/Nano Technology Center, Tokai University, Kanagawa, Japan 259-1292. hkimura@tokai-u.jp.
Lab on a Chip
|December 22, 2023
Summary
This study introduces an automated microphysiological system (MPS) for real-time cell monitoring. The new system enhances cell evaluation and throughput in organ-on-a-chip research.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cell Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Microphysiological systems (MPS) model organ functions using microfluidic platforms.
- Current MPS lack automated online assessment of cell morphology and dynamics.
- Existing systems have limitations in temporal resolution and experimental throughput.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an automated strategy for cell observation in MPS.
- To enhance cell evaluation functions with improved temporal resolution and throughput.
- To create a practical solution for detailed cellular dynamics monitoring in MPS experiments.
Main Methods:
- Developed a standalone cell culture microfluidic device (SCCMD) compliant with ANSI/SLAS standards.
- Integrated the SCCMD with an existing automatic cell imaging system.
- Utilized perfusion culture of human kidney proximal tubule epithelial cells.
Main Results:
- Achieved automatic cell observation with high temporal resolution in MPS.
- Demonstrated improved cell function through perfusion culture in the SCCMD.
- Successfully automated morphological and material permeability evaluation for nephrotoxicity studies.
Conclusions:
- The integrated SCCMD and imaging system enables automated, high-resolution cell dynamics monitoring.
- This approach significantly improves throughput and cell evaluation in MPS experiments.
- The ANSI/SLAS-compliant MPS design represents a novel research direction for advancing MPS technology.

