Endothelialized microvasculature based on a biodegradable elastomer.
Vital organs maintain dense microvasculature to sustain the proper function of their cells. For tissue- engineered organs to function properly, artificial capillary networks must be developed. We have microfabricated capillary networks with a biodegradable and biocompatible elastomer, poly(glycerol sebacate) (PGS). We etched capillary patterns onto silicon wafers by standard micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) techniques. The resultant silicon wafers served as micromolds for the devices. We bond the patterned PGS film with a flat film to create capillary networks that were perfused with a syringe pump at a physiological flow rate. The devices were endothelialized under flow conditions, and part of the lumens reached confluence within 14 days of culture. This approach may lead to tissue-engineered microvasculature that is critical in vital organs engineering.
Fidkowski
Christina
C
Division of Health Science and Technology, Department of Chemical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, USA.
Kaazempur-Mofrad
Mohammad R
MR
Borenstein
Jeffrey
J
Vacanti
Joseph P
JP
Langer
Robert
R
Wang
Yadong
Y
D001672:Biocompatible Materials / Q000737:chemistry*; D001673:Biodegradation, Environmental; D002448:Cell Adhesion; D018929:Cell Culture Techniques; D002460:Cell Line; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D020724:Elastomers / Q000737:chemistry*; D004730:Endothelium, Vascular / Q000166:cytology*; D006801:Humans; D020007:Implants, Experimental; D008833:Microcirculation; D010477:Perfusion; D012825:Silicon / Q000737:chemistry; D013499:Surface Properties; D023822:Tissue Engineering / Q000379:methods*; D014471:Umbilical Veins / Q000166:cytology
D001672:Biocompatible Materials; D020724:Elastomers; D012825:Silicon