The Microfluidic Lung on a Chip

Inaccurate models are one of the primary concerns involved in internal biological research. Cell culture research has circulated around inaccurate models, specifically the Transwell Model, which displays a simplified architecture and barrier function. This model led to the development of the improved Lung-on-a-Chip model, consisting of a Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) model that provides an ‘internal system’ platform, ideal for disease research. This model represents the microfluidic stresses and blood oxygen exchange found within the lung. The current manufacturing process of a viable device has varying degrees of success. The primary objective is to optimize the production process and manufacture a set of viable microfluidic chip devices that can quantify the diffusivity of the endothelial and epithelial cell bilayer, as well as successfully demonstrate the shear stresses of the lung environment through membrane deflection parameters. This system may potentially be flooded with Pneumolysin to study how cytotoxins can affect the degradation rate of the endothelial/epithelial cell bilayer. Potential protective measures, ideally Cav-1, will then be introduced to the system to determine the most effective treatment. Testing the bilayer with Pneumolysin requires a strong and steady system, increasing the need for accuracy and precision. Current manufacturing difficulties lead to leaking devices, disfigured membranes, flooded channels, and necrotic cells. Different theories associated with the manufacturing process are currently in testing to determine an improved and easily reproducible procedure.