This bioreactor system can subject cells to independently-controlled amounts of fluid flow, pressure, and other variable forces, permitting in-vitro study of the cellular responses to multiple mechanical stimuli. Bioreactors are manufactured devices used in cell culture and tissue creation; applying chemical and mechanical stimuli allows lab researchers to guide cell structure, organization, and function. However, available bioreactor devices are costly, complex, and typically not user-friendly. Most bioreactors cannot test multiple conditions on a single device, highlighting a need for a low-cost, accessible, and high-throughput system.
Researchers at the University of Florida have developed a bioreactor system that stimulates cells through a combination of mechanical forces. A collection of sensors allows for real-time, automatic adjustments of the stimuli experienced by the cell cultured in the device, permitting researchers to study the effects of mechanical forces on cellular systems.
Automated bioreactor system that applies a range of variable mechanical forces for cell culture study
A silicone chamber, flow circuit, support structure, control system, and multi-channel peristaltic pump form the bioreactor system. The chamber connects to a linear actuator that strains the chamber and pulls each end in unison. A bi-directional lead screw synchronizes the linear actuator’s pulling. 3D natural or synthetic hydrogels fill a specific region intended for cell culture, decoupling its properties from the chamber’s overall material properties. The chamber design facilitates the application of mechanical stimuli on cells cultured in the device. A collection of sensors also allows real-time adjustment of the device’s peristaltic pump and actuators to vary a range of mechanical forces.
