Fabrication of nature-inspired microfluidic network for perfusable tissue constructs

Abstract

A microreplication method is presented to transfer nature optimized vascular network of leaf venation into various synthetic matrixes. The biomaterial hydrogel with these microfluidic networks is proven to facilitate the growth of endothelial cells and simultaneously function as convection pathways to transport nutrients and oxygen in a pump-free bioreactor setup, which is crucial for the long-term viability of encapsulated cells.

Keywords: biomaterial hydrogel; leaf venation; microfluidic network; tissue engineering.