In this issue

Abstract

Abstract3D cell cultures in microfluidic systemsWitte et al., Eng. Life Sci. 2011, 11, 140–147.Culturing cells in culture flasks on solid state materials does not represent a physiological situation of a vascularized tissue. Consequently, experimental results do not always represent the in vivo situation. Therefore, authors from the TU Illmenau, Germany, report a Bio‐Micro‐Electro‐Mechanical System (BioMEMS) for the cultivation of adherent 2‐D and scaffold‐based 3‐D cell cultures in a microfluidic device. The miniaturization level and system set‐up allow incubator‐independent operation modes and long‐term experiments with real‐time microscope observation. The seeding of adherent cells into the microstructure was identified as a key issue. The modular design and set‐up offer a broad application spectrum for a variety of cell types that could for example be used for cell screening.……………140http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/elsc.201000045magnified imageAnimal disease detection on a chipSeise et al., Eng. Life Sci. 2011, 11, 148–156.The global livestock trade increases the risk of spreading animal diseases and other pathogens. Hence, new diagnostic tools that enable fast on‐site analysis are needed. These systems need to be transportable, robust and reliable and should have low power and reagent consumption. Chip‐based devices meet all of these requirements and offer the possibility of automation. In this issue, scientists from Jena, Germany, describe a DNA or RNA‐based platform for selected pathogens, such as foot‐and‐mouth disease virus (FMDV). The system incorporates a stationary PCR chip coupled with a DNA chip for electrical detection of sequence‐specific interaction of the PCR products. This technology combines the accuracy of sequence analysis with the speed of chip technologies.……………148http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/elsc.201000046magnified imageEncapsulation of Langerhans' isletsWiedemeier et al., Eng. Life Sci. 2011, 11, 165–173.Transplanting Langerhans' islets that produce insulin would be an attractive treatment of type‐1 diabetes mellitus, which is caused by an autoimmune reaction against these pancreatic cells. However, to prevent the rejection of the transplants by the immune system, a lifelong immunosuppressive medication is necessary. One possible way to prevent this rejection would be the transplantation of immunoseparated Langerhans' islets, which are encapsulated in a 3‐D‐alginate matrix, allowing for transfer of nutrients while prohibiting the infiltration of immune cells. A collaboration of researchers from academia and the clinic from Heilbad Heiligenstadt, Mainz, Saarbrücken and St. Ingbert (all Germany) demonstrate a microtechnological approach for encapsulation of cells in alginate in a reproducible and well‐controlled manner that aims at GMP compliant production and clinical use.……………165http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/elsc.201000146magnified image