“Three Dimensional Patterning of Microvascular Cells and Fragments”
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Abstract: Many researchers are investigating methods to engineer artificial tissues for a variety of applications, including repair and replacement of damaged organs. To date, some success has been achieved growing skin grafts, heart valves, and arteries. However, maintaining the viability of larger artificial geometries has been problematic. A major hindrance is the lack of adequate oxygen and nutrient transport to constituent cells. In addition, the build-up of metabolic wastes negatively impacts artificial tissue health. To address these issues, we believe future tissue engineered constructs will require an invested artificial microvasculature in order to maintain tissue viability. 

Using soft lithography, we have fabricated elastomer molds with microchannels oriented in simple network patterns. Channel widths of 40µm, 60µm, and 80µm represent dimensions typical of microvessel networks. Collagen suspensions of microvascular cells and isolated fragments were then microfluidically driven into these molds and cultured for at least seven days. During this time period, the elastomer molds seemed to direct cell and isolated fragment growth. Since no exogenous growth factors were added to the cultures, we believe this work presents a more physiologically relevant system for developing future in vitro microvasculatures.