Evaluation of Perfusion Cell Culture Conditions in a Double-Layered Microphysiological System Using AI-Assisted Morphological Analysis

Micromachines, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 16(3), P. 327 - 327

Published: March 12, 2025

In recent years, microphysiological systems (MPS) using microfluidic technology as a new in vitro experimental system have shown promise an alternative to animal experiments the development of drugs, especially field drug discovery, and some reports indicated that MPS potential be valuable tool obtain outcomes comparable those experiments. We commercialized Fluid3D-X®, double-layer chip made polyethylene terephthalate (PET), under Japan Agency for Medical Research Development (AMED) research project applied it various organ models. When intestinal epithelial cells, Caco-2, were cultured Fluid3D-X® peristaltic pump, villi-like structures formed microchannels. Still, degree formation differed between upstream downstream sides. To examine consideration points regarding effects nutrient oxygen supply by material medium perfusion rate direction on cells widely used demonstrate usefulness imaging evaluation method artificial intelligence assistive morphological cell morphology channels was quantified evaluated Nikon NIS.ai microscopic observation. Villi-like predominant top channel, independent bottom developed with increased flow rate. Additionally, compared PDMS showed almost uniform sterilization channel. The result indicates environment within microchannels differs because amount nutrients varies depending medium’s chips. As required different types differs, is necessary study optimization culture conditions according characteristics handled. It also demonstrated AI-based image analysis helpful quantification differences microchannel observed microscope.

Language: Английский

Extracellular Matrix Stiffness: Mechanotransduction and Mechanobiological Response-Driven Strategies for Biomedical Applications Targeting Fibroblast Inflammation

Polymers, Journal Year: 2025, Volume and Issue: 17(6), P. 822 - 822

Published: March 20, 2025

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a dynamic network providing mechanical and biochemical cues that regulate cellular behavior. ECM stiffness critically influences fibroblasts, the primary producers, particularly in inflammation fibrosis. This review explores role of fibroblast-driven tissue remodeling, focusing on physicochemical biological mechanisms involved. Engineered materials, hydrogels, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) are highlighted for replicating tissue-specific stiffness, enabling precise control over cell–matrix interactions. surface functionalization substrate including collagen, polydopamine, fibronectin, enhances bioactivity fibroblast adhesion. Key mechanotransduction pathways, such as integrin signaling YAP/TAZ activation, related to regulating behaviors inflammatory responses. fibroblasts driving chronic diseases emphasizes their therapeutic potentials. Advances ECM-modifying strategies, tunable biomaterials hydrogel-based therapies, explored applications engineering, drug delivery, anti-inflammatory treatments, diagnostic tools accurate diagnosis prognosis stiffness-related diseases. integrates mechanobiology with biomedical innovations, comprehensive responses outlining future directions targeted therapies.

Language: Английский