Molecular Transport Platform

Advanced platform for controlled molecular transport studies

Automated platform

Reduced hands-on time for extended studies

Independently regulated microenvironments

Customize parameters on either side of the barrier

Dynamic results over time

Characterize molecular transport kinetics

Exploring complex interactions with barrier models

Our new microfluidic platform is designed to help researchers study molecular transport across different barriers in the body, such as the blood-brain barrier, placenta and gut. This kind of research is becoming more popular because it allows scientists to understand complex interactions between molecules and cells in a controlled way. By focusing on molecular transport, researchers can gain deeper insights into how substances move through these barriers.

However, these experiments can be tricky to set up and reproduce in different labs. To solve this problem, our team created a system that automates the key parts of molecular transport experiments. This makes it easier for researchers to get consistent results and study how molecules move in different environments, which is crucial for advancing our understanding of molecular transport.

Platform Setup

Our molecular transport platform is designed with two sides, each capable of independent control and monitoring.

Each side includes:

  • A recirculation system to continuously perfuse the cells or microenvironment with a fail-safe mechanism to prevent clogging.
  • A temperature controller to maintain a stable environment.
  • O2 sensors to monitor the microenvironment.
  • A sample collector for automated, time-resolved collection.
  • Compatibility with various cross-membrane chips to connect both sides.

The functionalities are centrally controlled via a dedicated software interface.

Molecular Transport Schematics
References

Image:

  1. Batista, P. H. J., & Quilles Jr., J. C. (2020). Drug Metabolites: General Features and Most Applicable Analytical Methods of Studies. [Journal Name]. Figure 2.

Compatibility and applications

  1. Drug permeability studies
    Studying the permeation of drugs across cell monolayers.

  2. Toxicology assays
    Evaluating the impact of toxic substances in vitro.

  3. Cancer research
    Analyzing the transport of cancer cells through the endothelial barrier.

  4. Nutrient transport
    Mimicking the transport of nutrients into artificial tissues.

  5. General cell culture
    Perfuse the cells continuously, with a fail-safe mechanism in case of clogging

  6. And many more!

Molecular transport platform technical specifications

CharacteristicsSpecifications
Accuracy+/- 2.5 mbar
Flow rates0-5ml/min depending on flow sensors
Air consumptionfew ml/min
Response time140 ms
Settling time2750 ms
Overshoot140 ms
Recirculation BridgeInternal volume: 4 ml/bridge

Automated sampler

Characteristics Specifications
Number of samples Up to 20 samples per side
Volume of collection vial 1,5 to 2 ml Eppendorfs

O2 sensors

Components Technical specifications
Wetted Material PTFE
Dimensions 10x10x10 cm (control unit)
3x1x1 cm (sensing unit)
Admissible Flow rates 1-100 µL/min
Accessible Oxygen Levels 0-20 %DO
Stability of the control +/- 0.5 %DO/td>
Dynamic range of control 0.5% DO / min
pH range 6-8 pH
Stability of the control +/- 0.5 pH
placenta model platform

Frequently asked questions

How many chips can we run at the same time?

Currently, the platform can hold only one cross-membrane chip.

The platform was designed to host most types of chip, whether commercial or home-made, with the right adapters. So, the membrane technical specifications depend on your choice of material.

No, the platform was designed to be independent of the incubator.

No, the platform was designed to host most chips, whether commercial or home-made, with the right adapters.

No, we provide the fluidic circuit and automation to run various barrier model experiments with this platform. The biological part is out of our scope. You will need to develop and culture your cells yourself, and we can help you integrate your biological model into the platform.

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Funding and Support

The LIFESAVER and Micro4Nano projects helped develop this instrument. These projects are funded by the European Union’s H2020-LC-GD-2020-3, grant agreement no. 101036702 (LIFESAVER) and H2020-MSCA-RISE-2020, grant agreement no. 101007804 (Micro4Nano).

Products & Associated Accessories

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