An integrated microfluidic chip for alginate microsphere generation and 3D cell culture. Issue 12 (18th February 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhou, Xiaoxiang; Zhu, Libo; Li, Weihao; Liu, Quanjun
• Is Part Of: Analytical methods. Volume 14:Issue 12(2022)
• Page Start: 1181
• Page End: 1186
• Publication Date: 2022-02-18
• Subjects: Chemistry, Analytic -- Periodicals; Analytical biochemistry -- Periodicals; Chemical laboratories -- Standards -- Periodicals; 543.1905
• DOI: 10.1039/d1ay01820e
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1759-9660

Abstract

Abstract : An integrated microfluidic platform is developed for the generation, demulsification and in situ culture of bacteria-laden 3D alginate microspheres. This platform provide encapsulated bacterial cells a biocompatible microenvironment. Abstract : Three-dimensional (3D) hydrogel microspheres have attracted increasing attention as cell culture carriers. The system of hydrogel microspheres provides great advantages for cell growth owing to its high surface-to-volume ratio and biocompatible environment. However, an integrated system that includes microsphere generation, microsphere capture and in situ culture together has not been realized yet. Here we present a multifunctional microfluidic device to accomplish the overall process including cell-laden microsphere generation, online demulsification and dynamic-culture. The microfluidic device can produce massive monodispersed alginate microspheres and allows us to immobilize the alginate microspheres and record bacterial growth. Moreover, the microspheres provide a suitable environment through the mechanical properties of soft tissues, leading to high cell viability, proliferation, activity and biocompatibility. We believe that this versatile and biocompatible platform will provide a more reliable analysis tool for tissue engineering and cell therapy.