The hiFlow in vitro platform. (IMAGE)
Caption
The hiFlow in vitro platform. a Schematic of the hiFlow chip (backside view), with the components of the microfluidic network highlighted in the design. Each chip hosts two microfluidic networks and features standard microscopy-slide dimensions. b Overview of the cell-interaction chambers, in which flowing suspended cells can interact with microtissue spheroids. The chamber features 7 microtissue compartments (in the image, 4 microtissues in the corresponding compartments are shown), while suspended cells flow across the chamber. c Close-up view of a cross-section of a microtissue compartment. A funnel structure with a top hydrophobic rim enables the loading of microtissues into the compartment. The compartment is surrounded by a 100 µm-high microfluidic channel. The shallow height of the channel prevents microtissues from escaping from the compartment. d Each polystyrene-based hiFlow chip was sealed with a pressure-sensitive-adhesive film to close the microfluidic channels. Four hiFlow chips (top view) can be loaded into a handling frame, which was designed so that microtissue loading ports and medium reservoirs were located at SLAS/ANSI standard positions. Tilting of the whole assembly generates a hydrostatic-pressure difference between the reservoirs and induces fluid flow in the microfluidic networks. e Up to four plates can be operated with a single tilter, resulting in the use of 32 units in parallel.
Credit
Microsystems & Nanoengineering
Usage Restrictions
Credit must be given to the creator. Only noncommercial uses of the work are permitted. No derivatives or adaptations of the work are permitted.
License
CC BY-NC-ND