Introduction As discussed in a previous post, we are working to adapt a PDMS flow insert as a manufacturable component. While our priority was maintaining the original flow channel geometry as Mansouri et al. designed, we slightly changed the channel…
Category: μSiM
All things cell culture on the μSiM
Manufacturable Single-Slot Flow Insert Update
Introduction A recent collaborative publication from RIT developed a modular µSiM to address the lack of physiological fluid flow in conventional open-well devices (Figure 1). The magnetic latching assembly of this design allows for quick configuration into a fluidic setup.…
Making the right connections: Testing new port connectors for flow applications
Introduction: Many applications of the µSiM require fluid to be continuously supplied to the microfluidic devices. We use laboratory tubing (typically Cole-Parmer/Tygon Tubing with I.D = 1/16″) that is connected to syringes or peristaltic pumps to do so. However, interfacing…
Localizing Basement Membrane Production in Coculture BBB Model
Introduction The basement membrane (BM) is a critical component of a healthy blood-brain barrier (BBB) model. Further, the BM breaks down in several diseases. Both pericytes and endothelial cells can contribute to basement membrane production. This post will explore a…
A Power-free Pneumatic System for Controlling Fluid Flow
Introduction When searching for a flow control system for microfluidic cell culture, we look to balance the ease of use, accessibility, and precision of fluidic control. For instance, researchers have explored different powered actuation methods for miniaturized precise proportional fluid…
Characterization of the CAD-LB: Dynamic Range & Capture Efficiency
Introduction This post is meant to serve as an update for some of the more recent work completed on the CAD-LB (catch and display for liquid biopsy) platform. The CAD-LB is intended to be used as a digital biomarker assay…
Troubleshooting ECM Protein Coatings on the uSiM
Introduction The membrane on uSiM platform is inert, therefore, coating with extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins is essential to promote attachment and growth of adhesion cell lines on the uSiM. Besides promoting proper attachment on the membrane, the ECM proteins dramatically…
Posted in μSiM
R61/R33 Update to NIH on Nov. 9, 2022
Attached is a PDF presented to the NIH at our annual update meeting that included other funded project teams. R61_R33HL154249 11-22 Update (Low Res)
Posted in memBrains
Development of a TEER module for barrier tissue characterization
Introduction Tissue barriers separate different compartments of body organs. These barriers regulate the absorption of nutrients, maintain homeostasis, and prevent toxins from entering. In vitro models of tissue barriers have been developed to understand human diseases and investigate drug toxicity…
Culture of iPSC-BMECs at RIT
Introduction The capability of the m-μSiM for establishing an hiPSC-derived blood-brain barrier (BBB) in bioengineering and bioscience laboratories has been shown previously [1]. To further demonstrate interlaboratory agreement and successful dissemination of components and protocols, m-μSiM was used at RIT…
