Photoactivated Cell Migration in 3D-Printed Tissue Scaffolds

The project aims to develop a novel research tool that simulates the cell’s natural 3-dimensional environment, while providing the researcher with dynamic control of said environment. This tool will elicit natural cell responses (ie. In tissue), unlike conventional 2-dimensional cell cultures. The tool will also provide the researcher with precise control over the mechanical/biochemical cues of the cell environment. The researcher can manipulate these cues without contact using a near-UV light source. This is very powerful experimental control, as spatial and temporal control of the cell environment allows control of the initial state, the stimulus, and facilitates correlating cell responses with the stimulus.

Fabrication through 3D printing allows detailed tailoring of the cell environment at micro and macroscales. This allows the researcher to replicate the exact environment they wish to study. The tool may also find industrial application as a more predictive indicator in drug screening.

Faculty Supervisor:

Hani Naguib

Student:

Partner:

Waseda University

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Toronto

Program: