This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies. Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility: Researchers at the Brazilian Center for Research in Energy and Materials (CNPEM) have developed microfluidic technology that can grow cells in three dimensions (3D). The goal is to conduct toxicity tests on new products by more accurately simulating living organisms.
This technology is a breakthrough for drug development, material safety assessment and ecotoxicology research (the study of the impact of substances on ecosystems). It also helps reduce the need for animal testing. The device uses microfluidics, which allows for precise control of the flow of nutrients, oxygen and other substances in microscopic tests.
This maintains three-dimensional cellular models that more closely resemble the structure and function of human tissues. Compared with conventional cell cultures grown on flat surfaces, 3D models provide better insight into the effects of drugs, nanomaterials and environmental pollutants. The platform is manufactured from PDMS, a malleable, transparent, biocompatible and low-cost silicone, and enables the automated performance of multiple experiments.
One of its key features is its reversible design, which allows the device to be opened after testing to retrieve intact cellular models for further analysis. This expands the possibilities for investigating the mechanisms of action of the substances being evaluated. The study was published in ACS Measurement Science Au.
It was conducted within the scope of the Research Center for Molecular Engineering of Advanced Materials (CEMol), a Research, Innovation and Dissemination Center (RIDC). The study presents three main advances. First, it developed a standardized, reproducible and user-friendly experimental protocol that enables researchers without prior microfluidics experience to use the technology in routine cell assays.
Second, the ability to recover three-dimensional cell models for further analysis after testing is a key feature. This capability, uncommon in microfluidic platforms, allows for a more in-depth investigation of how drugs and materials interact with cells. Third, the ability to conduct assays under continuous-flow conditions more accurately replicates the circulation of nutrients and molecules observed in the body.
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