Abstract

Microfluidic Environmental Control Technologies for Organ-on-a-chip

Hiroshi Kimura, Associate Professor, Tokai University

Conventional cell-based assays in life science and medical application can be difficult to maintain cells functionally. Microfluidics is an emerging technology with potential to provide integrated environments for maintenance, control, and monitoring of surround of cells. Our research group works in mainly in fundamental technologies of microfluidic devices and systems, and their applications to biological sciences including a Body/Organ-on-a-chip. In this presentation, we introduce integrated microfluidic platforms, which allow precisely control of the cell culture environment on Organ-on-a-chips. The microfluidic structure in the devices can mimic a physiological environment in vitro. Moreover, functional components, such as sensors, valves and pump, can be integrated into the devices by microfabrication. We have applied the devices to organ cell assay, embryo culture, and pluripotent stem cell (PSCs) differentiation. Performance of the devices was examined through cell culture and monitoring of dynamic activity of cells. Because dynamic cell activity could be maintained and measured, these devices might have applications in drug screening and toxicity testing.