Researcher(s)
- Lydia Cybyk, Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Jason Gleghorn, Biomedical Engineering, University of Delaware
Abstract
Organ-on-a-chip (OoC) systems are in vitro tissue models which allow control over key microenvironmental features of a target organ. These systems are bridging the gap between the use of standard 2D cell culture and often physiologically incompatible animal models, allowing for a more accurate platform for biological research, drug testing, and disease modeling. However, fabrication and use of OoC models frequently require specialized equipment and extensive prior experience. The kidney OoC systems that have been previously created are limited to modeling singular regions of the nephron. To address these challenges, we have developed a simple, cost-effective, collagen hydrogel based, open-faced, modular OoC system. It features an open-faced design that allows access to the top and bottom of the hydrogel compartment, to allow for the creation of a layered system of different functional units of the nephron. The device consists of a 2-ply disposable silicone ‘insert’, containing a microfluidic channel within a collagen hydrogel molded using a 154.2 μm diameter nylon fishing line. To allow for collagen adhesion to the walls of the compartment, the insert is first treated with a polydopamine solution. The consistency of the microchannel was ensured by measuring the diameter at 1mm increments using ImageJ. The system with and without collagen was validated for perfusion through flow testing with dyed water, showing no leakage over 24 hours at a rate of at 10 μL/min. After cells are seeded into the microchannel, the insert is sealed into an acrylic ‘cassette’ with ports to allow for media change and perfusion, and cultured for 3 days. Through several device iterations, we have produced a highly customizable system that is capable of long-term perfusion, with advanced physiological accuracy, using novel methods translatable to model other organ systems.