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Nano and Micro Technologies

Nano and Micro Technologies - Poster Session B

Poster J15 - Development of Microfluidic Chip to Simulate Ischemic Strokes In Vitro

Thursday, October 24, 2024
2:45 PM – 3:45 PM EST
Location: Exhibit Hall E, F & G

    Presenting Author(s)

  • Destiny Drain

    Undergraduate Research Assistant
    Clemson University
    Pendleton, South Carolina, United States

    • Co-Author(s)

  • LA

    Lidadi Agbomi (she/her/hers)

    Graduate Research
    Clemson University
    Simpsonville, South Carolina, United States

  • Farhad Shokati, MSc (he/him/his)

    Graduate Research Assistant
    Clemson University
    CENTRAL, South Carolina, United States

    • Last Author(s)

  • Bruce Gao, PhD

    Professor and The South Carolina SmartState Endowed Chair in Biofabrication Engineering
    Clemson University, United States


Introduction:  The advancement of microfluidic chips marks pivotal progress in medical research, particularly in the simulation of pathological conditions such as that of ischemic strokes. The precision of accurately replicating microenvironments of human organs in culture is vital for in-depth ischemic stroke research, facilitating the creation of sophisticated in vitro models that significantly enhance our understanding and potential treatment strategies for this condition.

Materials and

Methods:  Our primary methodology involves scaffold fabrication techniques to create micro-channels that support cell growth and tissue formation, closely mimicking the extracellular matrix (ECM) using various polymers. The microfluidic chip is designed with SolidWorks software and features a hydrogel scaffold composed of hyaluronic acid, specifically modified to enhance its functionality. This hydrogel is positioned atop a layer of carbohydrate glass, which degrades under aqueous hydrogel to form channels inside the hydrogel. The formation of micro-channels ensures the continuous flow of media through the culture, which is essential for replicating the dynamic flow environment of the human brain.

Results, Conclusions, and Discussions: Z Sensor values ranged from −1.68×10−5 to −1.66×10−5, indicating the AFM tip's movement closer to the sample surface. Correspondingly, the deflection values increased from 1.14×10−6 to 1.19×10−6 meters, reflecting the increased interaction forces. This consistency in the data confirms that the material's mechanical properties closely mimic those of brain tissue, providing a suitable platform for in vitro ischemic stroke modeling. The softness and uniformity of the material will facilitate accurate studies of cell behavior under ischemic conditions, contributing to the development of targeted therapies.

The AFM data from our 1st selection of gel composition gave the physiologic stiffness to closely mimic brain tissue, providing relevant mechanical environment for studying stroke in vitro. The material exhibited uniform mechanical properties, as indicated by consistent deflection and force values across different points. The uniform mechanical response shows potential suitability where consistency and reliability are paramount.

This research aims to advance our understanding of the effect of reperfusion during treatment of ischemic stroke by developing a sophisticated microfluidics-based culture model. Integrating various techniques to simulate the ischemic brain environment accurately will allow for an in-depth exploration of cellular responses to ischemia and reperfusion, potentially guiding future therapeutic approaches.

Acknowledgements (Optional):