Developing and validating an adhesive-based cell culture technique for airway epithelial cells with applications in cell patterning and microfluidic studies

Abstract

Airway epithelial cell culture is largely performed under static conditions in conventional cell culture dishes, plates or flasks. These models are easily accessible and user-friendly, widely being used in diverse discovery research and drug development applications. However, static culture models do not incorporate dynamic forces of airflow or interstitial fluid flow that are experienced in vivo by airway epithelial cells. Recent advances in airway epithelial cell culture are beginning to incorporate dynamic forces. However, these models are often proprietary, require access to specialized equipment, trained personnel and facilities, all factors that restrict such methods from being widely adapted by biomedical researchers. To address this application requirement and technology gap, we have developed and tested the use of adhesives in airway epithelial cell culture that enables us to create micropatterns, apply the technique to a cell migration study and develop an accessible microfluidic chip for perfusion that involves minimal equipment. Our results display data that supports using adhesives for advanced airway epithelial cell culture models that provide an easily accessible system for cell micropatterning and introduction of dynamic forces.