Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2025
Generation of a Simplified Three-Dimensional Skin-on-a-chip Model in a Micromachined Microfluidic Platform
Published on: May 17, 2021
Construction of dentin-on-a-chip based on microfluidic technology and tissue engineering
Hexuan Zhang1, Lingjun Li2, Shujing Wang2
1Center for Microscope Enhanced Dentistry, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100162, PR China; Department of Endodontics and Operative Dentistry, School of Stomatology, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100050, PR China.
This study developed a simplified dentin-on-a-chip using microfluidics and stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) in gelatin methacrylate (GelMA). A 5% GelMA concentration and 2x10^4 cells/μL seeding density optimized SCAP differentiation for dental material screening.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Tissue Engineering
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures better mimic in vivo tissue structures than 2D models.
- Organs-on-chips (OoCs) represent advanced 3D models for biological research.
- Developing simplified 3D dental models is crucial for dental material screening.
Purpose of the Study:
- To create a novel, simplified dentin-on-a-chip model.
- To utilize microfluidic technology and tissue engineering for this purpose.
- To establish a platform for screening dental materials.
Main Methods:
- A three-channel microfluidic device was engineered.
- Stem cells from the apical papilla (SCAP) and gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) were used.
- Cell viability, distribution, and osteo/odontogenic differentiation were assessed under varying SCAP densities and GelMA concentrations.
Main Results:
- Optimal cell seeding density was determined as 2 × 10⁴ cells/μL.
- Both 5% and 10% GelMA concentrations supported cell growth and distribution.
- Higher osteo/odontogenic differentiation of SCAP was observed in 5% GelMA compared to 10% GelMA.
Conclusions:
- GelMA concentration regulates SCAP osteo/odontogenic differentiation in 3D culture.
- A simplified dentin-on-a-chip was successfully constructed using 2 × 10⁴ cells/μL SCAP in 5% GelMA.
- This model holds potential for regenerative endodontics and dental material testing.
