Microfluidic model of the platelet-generating organ: beyond bone marrow biomimetics

Sci Rep. 2016 Feb 22:6:21700. doi: 10.1038/srep21700.

Abstract

We present a new, rapid method for producing blood platelets in vitro from cultured megakaryocytes based on a microfluidic device. This device consists in a wide array of VWF-coated micropillars. Such pillars act as anchors on megakaryocytes, allowing them to remain trapped in the device and subjected to hydrodynamic shear. The combined effect of anchoring and shear induces the elongation of megakaryocytes and finally their rupture into platelets and proplatelets. This process was observed with megakaryocytes from different origins and found to be robust. This original bioreactor design allows to process megakaryocytes at high throughput (millions per hour). Since platelets are produced in such a large amount, their extensive biological characterisation is possible and shows that platelets produced in this bioreactor are functional.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antigens, CD / physiology
  • Biomarkers / metabolism
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Biomimetics
  • Bioreactors
  • Blood Platelets / cytology*
  • Blood Platelets / physiology
  • Bone Marrow Cells / cytology
  • Bone Marrow Cells / physiology
  • Fetal Blood / cytology*
  • Fetal Blood / physiology
  • Gene Expression
  • Humans
  • Lab-On-A-Chip Devices*
  • Megakaryocytes / cytology*
  • Megakaryocytes / physiology
  • Models, Biological*
  • Platelet Activation / physiology
  • Platelet Aggregation / physiology
  • Platelet Count
  • Rheology
  • Stress, Mechanical

Substances

  • Antigens, CD
  • Biomarkers