Two-Channel Microfluidic Chip Designs for Blood-Brain Barrier Modeling

Microfluidic devices enable the study of fluid-flow phenomena at the microscale, offering a platform for precise control over cellular microenvironments. Organ-on-a-chip (OOC) models, a specialized type of microfluidic device, incorporate multiple channels compatible with cell culturing. These models mimic the physical and physiological functions of specific organs, creating an in vivo-like environment for studying biological processes. In the context of blood-brain barrier (BBB) research, microfluidic chips provide a physiologically relevant mechanobiological platform for drug screening, targeted drug delivery, and disease modeling. By integrating microfluidic technology with BBB models, researchers can replicate critical aspects of the barrier’s structure and function, enabling a more accurate investigation of interactions between brain endothelial cells, pericytes, and astrocytes under dynamic conditions. This research project focuses on designing and fabricating two-channel microfluidic chips for BBB modeling. The design aims to refine physiological conditions by incorporating modifications that enhance barrier integrity and fluid dynamics. These advancements will improve the relevance of the model in studying brain disorders and evaluating novel therapeutic strategies.
An undergraduate student participating in this project will assist in fabricating microfluidic chips using different techniques. They will be involved in casting polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) by mixing, degassing, pouring it onto the molds, curing, and carefully peeling off the replicated microfluidic structures. After fabrication, they will support the assembly and bonding of the chips by plasma-treating PDMS surfaces and ensuring proper sealing with glass or other PDMS layers. To verify the functionality of the chips, they will conduct quality control checks such as fluid flow experiments to detect leaks and assist in optimizing the designs for better cell culture compatibility. Finally, they will sterilize the fabricated chips using autoclaving or UV treatment and help prepare them for endothelial cell seeding and co-culture experiments. Through this experience, the student will gain hands-on training in microfabrication techniques and exposure to bioengineering approaches for studying the blood-brain barrier.