3D Analysis of Multi-cellular Responses to Chemoattractant Gradients

Differences in simplified 2D in vitro cultures versus 3D tissue-like environments have increased the interest in 3D systems to represent the spatial and chemical complexity of living tissues. The fabrication process does not require facility or photolithography techniques. However, the 3D PDMS device includes the necessary vectors for 3D physiological environment applications.

For mesofluidic device preparation, use an appropriate three-dimensional computer-aided design software program to design the mask of the mold for the polydimethylsiloxane or PDMS device and print the mold using stereo lithography equipment with a thermoresistant resin. When the mold is ready, roughly mix three milliliters of PDMS monomer solution per mold with a curing agent at a 10 to one ratio and use a vacuum to degas the mixture in a vacuum desiccator for one hour. At the end of the desiccation, use a piece of adhesive tape to remove any dust from the surface of the mold and carefully fill the mold with the degassed PDMS solution.