Towards artificial liver sinusoids by dielectrophoretic cell assembly in microfluidic system for use in substance screening

Abstract

We are developing microfluidic systems with 3D-microstructures and integrated electrodes to assemble cells in an organ-like 3D-structure by means of dielectrophoretic and hydrodynamic forces. To further mimic the in vivo situation cells are allowed to adhere on liver specific extra cellular matrix proteins. Results showing co-assembly of liver cells in a sinusoid like structure will be presented. © 2009 Springer-Verlag.