简介:
Overview
This publication presents a method for fabricating an organ-on-chip device with integrated electrodes for the direct measurement of transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER). The blood-brain barrier is mimicked within this microfluidic device, allowing for the monitoring of its barrier function.
Key Study Components
Area of Science
- Neuroscience
- Microfluidics
- Biomedical Engineering
Background
- Transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) is a key measure of barrier function in endothelial cells.
- Organs-on-chips are innovative tools for studying human physiology and disease.
- Integrating electrodes into microfluidic devices enhances measurement capabilities.
- The blood-brain barrier is critical for protecting the brain and is a focus in drug discovery.
Purpose of Study
- To develop a microfluidic chip that allows for direct TEER measurements.
- To validate the device using a model of the blood-brain barrier.
- To provide a method applicable to various organ-on-chip systems.
Methods Used
- Fabrication of PDMS-based microfluidic chips with integrated electrodes.
- Preparation of a porous membrane to mimic the blood-brain barrier.
- Direct measurement of TEER using impedance spectroscopy.
- Cell culture techniques to prepare endothelial cells for the chip.
Main Results
- The fabricated organ-on-chip device successfully integrated electrodes for TEER measurement.
- TEER values were obtained that reflect the barrier function of the blood-brain barrier model.
- The method allows for comparison across different organ-on-chip systems.
- Results indicate potential applications in drug discovery and personalized medicine.
Conclusions
- The integration of electrodes into organ-on-chip devices enhances measurement accuracy.
- This technique can be applied to study various organ systems beyond the blood-brain barrier.
- Future research can leverage this method for insights into health and disease.
What is TEER?
TEER stands for transendothelial electrical resistance, a measure of the integrity of endothelial cell layers.
How does the organ-on-chip device work?
The device mimics organ functions and allows for real-time measurement of barrier properties using integrated electrodes.
What are the applications of this technology?
It can be used in drug discovery, studying disease mechanisms, and personalized medicine approaches.
What materials are used in the chip fabrication?
The primary material used is PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane), which is suitable for microfluidic applications.
Can this method be applied to other organ systems?
Yes, the technique can be adapted for use with other organ-on-chip models such as Lung-on-Chip and Gut-on-Chip.