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Synergistic Approach of High-Precision 3D Printing and Low Cell Adhesion for Enhanced Self-Assembled Spheroid Formation

Authors :
Chunxiang Lu
Aoxiang Jin
Chuang Gao
Hao Qiao
Huazhen Liu
Yi Zhang
Wenbin Sun
Shih-Mo Yang
Yuanyuan Liu
Source :
Biosensors, Vol 15, Iss 1, p 7 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2024.

Abstract

Spheroids, as three-dimensional (3D) cell aggregates, can be prepared using various methods, including hanging drops, microwells, microfluidics, magnetic manipulation, and bioreactors. However, current spheroid manufacturing techniques face challenges such as complex workflows, the need for specialized personnel, and poor batch reproducibility. In this study, we designed a support-free, 3D-printed microwell chip and developed a compatible low-cell-adhesion process. Through simulation and experimental validation, we rapidly optimized microwell size and the coating process. We successfully formed three types of spheroids—human immortalized epidermal cells (HaCaTs), umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs), and human osteosarcoma cells (MG63s)—on the chip. Fluorescent viability staining confirmed the biocompatibility and reliability of the chip. Finally, drug response experiments were conducted using the chip. Compared to traditional methods, our proposed strategy enables high-throughput production of size-controlled spheroids with excellent shape retention, while enhanced gas exchange during culture improves differentiation marker expression. This platform provides an efficient and cost-effective solution for biosensing applications, such as drug screening, disease modeling, and personalized therapy monitoring. Furthermore, the chip shows significant potential for real-time in vitro monitoring of cellular viability, reaction kinetics, and drug sensitivity, offering valuable advancements in biosensor technology for life sciences and medical applications.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
15010007 and 20796374
Volume :
15
Issue :
1
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Biosensors
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.264a1e70e144437ca2c3464b94ea3e42
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/bios15010007