At Nanyang Technological University in Singapore, medical researchers are exploring a groundbreaking approach to understanding and preventing cardiovascular disease. Instead of relying solely on traditional methods like studying rat models or cultured heart cells, they're turning to a cutting-edge microelectromechanical system (MEMS) microfluidic chip. This innovative tool is designed to replicate the complex conditions that lead to atherosclerosis, offering a more accurate and dynamic model for research.
The chip simulates the precise blood flow patterns found in arteries, especially when fat and cholesterol build up on the arterial walls, forming plaque. In real-life scenarios, this buildup can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of heart attacks. What makes the chip particularly impressive is its ability to mimic the inflammatory responses of cardiovascular cells, which play a key role in triggering these dangerous events. By controlling these reactions, scientists hope to develop new strategies to prevent heart disease altogether.
In their experiments, researchers first tested the chip using artificial blood to fine-tune the flow pathways. Then, they introduced real blood samples to observe how inflammatory responses occur and how they might be mitigated. This method allows for close monitoring of cellular behavior, making it a more effective alternative to traditional lab techniques involving animals or cell cultures.
The chip features two chambers separated by a flexible polymer membrane, with one chamber filled with compressed air and the other with blood or test fluid. Endothelial cells from coronary veins are cultured within the system to simulate real vascular conditions. When air is pumped into the chamber, the membrane moves, replicating the blockage that occurs during a heart attack.
Researchers have observed that as vascular blockage increases, endothelial cells release proteins that contribute to atherosclerosis. Using real blood simulations, they've also seen immune cells accumulate more quickly, accelerating the formation of harmful plaques.
According to Han Weihou, the lead researcher, the chip accurately models key factors associated with heart disease, making it an ideal platform for testing new treatments. The team has published their findings in two recent papers: "Atherosclerosis-on-a-Chip: A Tunable 3D Stenotic Blood Vessel Microdevice" and "A tunable microfluidic 3D stenosis model to study leukocyte-endothelial interactions in atherosclerosis." Their work represents a significant step forward in the fight against cardiovascular disease.
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