This technology introduces a 3D scaffold matrix designed by combining hollow fiber membranes (HFMs) with electrospun nanofibers composed of polycaprolactone, gelatin, and chitosan. The structure mimics the natural extracellular matrix (ECM), providing a highly biocompatible and hemocompatible surface for liver and fibroblast cell growth. A novel single-step fabrication process ensures uniform deposition of nanofibers directly onto HFMs, resulting in enhanced surface area, mechanical strength, and cell interaction. The matrix supports monoculture and co-culture systems and shows significant promise for applications in bio-artificial liver devices, drug testing platforms, and mass cell culture bioreactors.
Figure (1) Schematic showing hollow fiber membrane deposited with multiscale micro−nanofibers based 3−D scaffold matrix and cells grown on it.
The primary challenge addressed is the limitation of current cell supporting and guiding matrices in biomedical and tissue engineering, which often struggle to effectively support and guide cell growth for mass cell culture and bio-artificial organ development.
- Hybrid Micro-Nanofiber Design: Combines hollow fiber membranes with nanofibers to replicate the architecture of natural ECM and support 3D cell growth.
- Biocompatible and Hemocompatible: The scaffold supports robust growth of HepG2 and NIH 3T3 cells while minimizing blood-related immune responses.
- Functional Enhancement of Liver Cells: Enables increased albumin secretion and urea synthesis, indicating maintained hepatic functionality.
- One-Step Fabrication Process: Nanofibers are deposited onto HFMs in a single continuous process, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
- Robust Mechanical and Structural Properties: Improved tensile strength and fiber stability make the matrix suitable for long-term cell culture applications.
The prototype has undergone rigorous testing, including characterizations via SEM and ATR-FTIR, confirming the effective coating and compatibility of the matrix. It has shown significant potential in preclinical settings for enhancing cell culture techniques and bioreactor functionality.
The technology for the multiscale micro-nanofibers based 3-D scaffold matrix is currently at the advanced prototype stage. These tests have demonstrated its efficacy in supporting cell growth and functionality, setting the stage for potential clinical trials and commercial application in biomedical and tissue engineering fields.
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This invention provides a scalable and biocompatible platform for advancing liver tissue engineering, bio-artificial organs, and drug testing technologies. By enabling efficient liver cell culture and maintenance, the scaffold may reduce the burden on organ transplant systems and provide critical support to patients with liver failure. The simplified, cost-effective fabrication process makes the technology accessible to both research and industry, paving the way for broader deployment in affordable, life-saving biomedical solutions.
Biomedical Devices, Healthcare and Critical Care, Pharmaceutical R&D, Regenerative Medicine, Tissue Engineering and Biotechnology
- Bio-Artificial Liver Development: Serves as a cell-supporting membrane material for liver support systems requiring hepatocyte proliferation and function.
- Mass Cell Culture Bioreactors: Ideal for culturing large volumes of cells for tissue engineering or pharmaceutical use.
- Drug Toxicity and Metabolism Testing: Enables in vitro testing of drug effects using spheroid cultures that mimic in vivo liver responses.
- Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine: Useful in the design of scaffolds for engineered tissues where cell organization and function are critical.
- Cell Co-Culture Systems: Supports both single and mixed cell populations in research and preclinical studies.
Geography of IP
Type of IP
201721040357
414460