Masters Applied Projects

Project 5

Microfluidic Mixing Injector Design for Cell Encapsulation in Hydrogel Construct using Injection Molding

Student:

Chishiba Chilimba

Mentors:

Dr. Jessica Weaver, PhD - Arizona State University, SBHSE
Dr. Brent Vernon, PhD - Arizona State University, SBHSE
Dr. Mehdi Nikkhah, PhD - Arizona State University, SBHSE

YouTube Link:
View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom Link:
https://asu.zoom.us/j/87258962325


Abstract:
The continuous search for treatments to reverse Type 1 diabetes has catalyzed technologies such as islet transplantation. Cell encapsulation studies are associated with the above-mentioned approach to minimize transplant rejection without systemic immunosuppression. In this regard, hydrogel constructs have proven practical in generating cell-encapsulation geometries with functionally relevant properties. Three-dimensional bioprinting can be used to devise geometries for this application. However, it requires elaborate equipment, limiting the technique to well-established settings with considerable technical expertise. Therefore, there is a need for a more straightforward and reliable method of encapsulating cells in hydrogel constructs if the technique is translated for the patient's bedside in clinical use. Injection molding offers excellent potential for cell-encapsulating applications because of its associated automation and mass manufacturing benefits. This study explores generating a static microfluidic mixer with 3D twisted-fin elements of alternating chirality to premix the alginate gel-forming solutions before injection molding. We use Solidworks to design the model and simulate the fluid flow before 3D printing for laboratory tests. Glucono delta-lactone, 4% and 3% alginate solutions were formulated and used as two-fluid streams to analyze the device's performance with regard to mixing the hydrogel-forming solutions.