Microfluidic viscometry using magnetically actuated micropost arrays.

Here we describe development of a microfluidic viscometer based on arrays of magnetically actuated micro-posts. Quantitative viscosities over a range of three orders of magnitude were determined for samples of less than 20 μL. This represents the first demonstration of quantitative viscometry using driven flexible micropost arrays.

Micro-elastometry on whole blood clots using actuated surface-attached posts (ASAPs).

We present a novel technology for microfluidic elastometry and demonstrate its ability to measure stiffness of blood clots as they form. A disposable micro-capillary strip draws small volumes (20 μL) of whole blood into a chamber containing a surface-mounted micropost array. The posts are magnetically actuated, thereby applying a shear stress to the blood clot.

Biopolymer gel matrix as acellular scaffold for enhanced dermal tissue regeneration.

Biological grafts have drawbacks such as donor scarcity, disease transmission, tissue infection, while the scaffolds of either collagen or chitosan fabrics fail to become part of the tissue at the wound site, though they favor the formation of connective tissue matrix. This study developed a novel composite consisting of the combination of atelocollagen and chitosan in order to provide a biodegradable molecular matrix in gel form as a biomimetic surface for cell attachment, to promote the wound healing in excision wounds. We found that the topical application of biopolymer composite on the wound promoted cell proliferation, migration and collagen deposition overtime.

Application of a PDGF-containing novel gel for cutaneous wound healing.

Aim: The objective of this study was to develop an acellular provisional matrix to mimic the extracellular matrix (ECM) of a wound site, and to evaluate its potential for in vivo dermal regeneration.

Key Points: This study evaluates the potential of a monomeric collagen-chitosan gel containing platelet-derived growth factor to enhance healing and reduce the time of wound closure.

Main Methods: In the present study, we developed a novel composite consisting of the combination of collagen, chitosan and platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF).