Cell encapsulation and 3D self-assembly using multi-layered polymeric thin films

Abstract

Multi-layered thin films are spontaneously folded to form three-dimensional (3D) geometries. In this study, we demonstrate that polymeric thin films are self-folded to encapsulate cells. The films consist of two types of polymers with different mechanical stiffnesses; thereby, the rolled-up 3D tubular architectures with controllable diameters are fabricated based on the strain engineering. A batch release of sacrificial layers forms the multiple cells wrapped in rolled-up films, leading to artificial reconstruction of fiber-shaped cellular 3D constructs with the intrinsic morphologies and functions of living tissues. This system can potentially provide 3D biointerfaces that are necessary for the reconstruction and assembly of functional tissues and implantable tissue grafts.