Pump-less, recirculating organ-on-a-chip (rOoC) platform

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Mathias Busek - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Aleksandra Aizenshtadt - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Timo Koch - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Anna Frank - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Ludivine Delon - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Mikel Amirola Martinez - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Alexey Golovin - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Clotilde Dumas - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Justyna Stokowiec - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Stefan Gruenzner - , Chair of Microsystems, TUD Dresden University of Technology (Author)
  • Espen Melum - , University of Oslo (Author)
  • Stefan Krauss - , University of Oslo (Author)

Abstract

We developed a novel, pump-less directional flow recirculating organ-on-a-chip (rOoC) platform that creates controlled unidirectional gravity-driven flow by a combination of a 3D-tilting system and an optimized microfluidic layout. The rOoC platform was assembled utilizing a layer-to-layer fabrication technology based on thermoplastic materials. It features two organoid compartments supported by two independent perfusion channels and separated by a hydrogel barrier. We developed a computational model to predict wall shear stress values and then measured the flow rate in the microfluidic channels with micro-Particle-Image-Velocimetry (μPIV). The suitability of the rOoC for functional culture of endothelial cells was tested using HUVECs seeded in the perfusion channels. HUVECs aligned in response to the directional flow, formed a barrier and were able to sprout into the organoid compartments. Next, we demonstrated the viability of human stem-cell derived liver organoids in the organoid compartments. Finally, we show the possibility to circulate immune cells in the microfluidic channels that retain viability without being trapped or activated. The rOoC platform allows growing and connecting of two or more tissue or organ representations on-chip with the possibility of applying gradients, endothelial barriers, microvasculature and circulating cells independent of external tubing and support systems.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)591-608
Number of pages18
JournalLab on a chip
Volume23
Issue number4
Publication statusPublished - 20 Dec 2022
Peer-reviewedYes

External IDs

PubMed 36655405