Soft robotic constrictor for in vitro modeling of dynamic tissue compression

Jungwook Paek,Yuma Morimitsu,Vivek B Shenoy,Joseph W Song,Dan Dongeun Huh,Chinedum O Osuji,Ehsan Ban

doi:10.1038/s41598-021-94769-2

Abstract

Here we present a microengineered soft-robotic in vitro platform developed by integrating a pneumatically regulated novel elastomeric actuator with primary culture of human cells. This system is capable of generating dynamic bending motion akin to the constriction of tubular organs that can exert controlled compressive forces on cultured living cells. Using this platform, we demonstrate cyclic compression of primary human endothelial cells, fibroblasts, and smooth muscle cells to show physiological changes in their morphology due to applied forces. Moreover, we present mechanically actuatable organotypic models to examine the effects of compressive forces on three-dimensional multicellular constructs designed to emulate complex tissues such as solid tumors and vascular networks. Our work provides a preliminary demonstration of how soft-robotics technology can be leveraged for in vitro modeling of complex physiological tissue microenvironment, and may enable the development of new research tools for mechanobiology and related areas.

Highlights

Lumen and subject cultured cells to the resultant mechanical forces in a controllable manner
In the phase of our study, building upon the proof-of-concept demonstration of soft robotic mechanical loading in 2D cell culture, we explored the feasibility of modeling 3D human tissues under compression
Motivated by ongoing research efforts to understand the biomechanical basis of cancer development and progression[40], this work focused on modeling malignant tumors in the human lung (Fig. 5a), with the specific goal of examining how compressive tissue deformation due to the dynamic activity of the respiratory system affects the invasive behavior of cancer cells

Summary

Introduction

Lumen and subject cultured cells to the resultant mechanical forces in a controllable manner. For proof-of-concept demonstration, we show dynamic cellular changes in primary culture of mechanosensitive human cells as a result of mechanical loading in the biomimetic soft robotic system.

Results

Conclusion