Improving Pancreatic Islet Culture with Microfluidic Devices
Author Information
Author(s): Sankar Krishana S., Brenda J. Green, Alana R. Crocker, Jocelyne E. Verity, Svetlana M. Altamentova, Jonathan V. Rocheleau
Primary Institution: University of Toronto
Hypothesis
The deterioration of endothelial cells in pancreatic islets during culture occurs due to limited media diffusion in the absence of blood flow.
Conclusion
Microfluidic devices enhance the culture of pancreatic islets by maintaining endothelial cell density and morphology better than traditional culture methods.
Supporting Evidence
- Islets cultured in the microfluidic device maintained more than twice their endothelial cell density compared to traditional culture.
- Flow rates of 1-7 ml/24 hr significantly improved endothelial cell morphology.
- Addition of serum albumin in the culture media enhanced endothelial cell morphology.
Takeaway
This study shows that using a special device to keep blood flowing helps keep the cells in the pancreas healthy when they are grown in a lab.
Methodology
Isolated pancreatic islets were cultured in a microfluidic device with varying flow rates to assess the effects on endothelial cell morphology and function.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in the interpretation of results due to the specific conditions of the microfluidic device.
Limitations
The study primarily focused on the effects of flow on endothelial cells and did not fully explore the long-term viability of beta-cells.
Participant Demographics
Islets were isolated from 8- to 12-week-old male C57BL6 mice.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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