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Rapid Whole-Plate Cell and Tissue Micropatterning Using a Budget 3D Resin Printer.
Anamika Singh1, Youn Kyoung Cho2, Daniel J Cohen1
1Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey 08544, United States.
ACS Omega
|November 4, 2024
Summary
Researchers developed a low-cost method using a consumer LCD printer to pattern proteins and cells on hydrogels. This accessible technique enables high-throughput, precise fabrication for tissue engineering and cell biology applications.
Area of Science:
- Biomaterials Science
- Bioengineering
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Precise patterning of cells and proteins is essential for cell biology, bioengineering, and materials chemistry.
- Existing methods like microcontact stamping and 3D bioprinting face limitations in cost, versatility, and throughput.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an accessible, high-throughput approach for patterning cells and proteins using a low-cost consumer LCD resin printer.
- To demonstrate the capability of this method for creating protein- and cell-repellent hydrogel patterns.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a bioinert hydrogel, poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA), and a 405 nm photoinitiator (LAP).
- Employing a low-cost LCD resin printer to project virtual photomasks onto the hydrogel for selective cross-linking.
- Calibrating exposure times and implementing shape corrections for optimal resolution and accuracy.
Main Results:
- Achieved reasonable resolution and large-area printing at a significantly lower cost than traditional systems.
- Demonstrated the formation of specific protein- and cell-repellent regions within the hydrogel.
- Validated the method's biocompatibility and ability to replicate complex tissue engineering patterns using 2D and 3D stem cell applications.
Conclusions:
- A low-cost LCD resin printer can be effectively used for precise hydrogel patterning, offering high throughput and accessibility.
- This method is broadly applicable across various scientific fields for rapid fabrication of cells and tissues in standard laboratory settings.
- The technique shows potential for advancing tissue engineering and cell-based research by enabling cost-effective, complex pattern creation.
