Department Chemical Engineering
Principal investigator Pouyan Boukany
E-mail address p.e.boukany@tudelft.nl
Using 3D microfluidics to mimic the tumor microenvironment
The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a central player in local cancer cell invasion and metastasis. Its unique biomechanical and biophysical characteristics dynamically change due to the influence of tumor cells, thereby promoting tumor growth and invasion. The role of relevant physical cues on cancer cell invasion through a complex TME remains widely unknown. This project aims to develop new microfluidics to replicate the intricate characteristics of TME in a controlled and scalable manner for research and therapeutic development.
Techniques
- Microfluidics
- Confocal Imaging
- Cell culture
Further reading
Mehta, P., et al. (2022). Trends in Cancer, 8(8), 683-697. DOI: 10.1016/j.trecan.2022.03.006.
A first step towards high throughput microfluidic aspiration and electroporation device
Supervisor: Sophie de Boer, S.S.M.deBoer@tudelft.nl
Efficient delivery of genetic materials into cells is a crucial aspect of gene-editing technologies. Electroporation, a promising method, involves creating temporary pores in the cell membrane through high-voltage electric pulses. However, the factors influencing its efficiency remain poorly understood, primarily due to the complexity of living cells and use of overly simplified models like giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs).
An often overlooked component is the role of the actin cytoskeleton, a dynamic network of polymers located beneath the cell membrane. It is pivotal in regulating diverse biological functions, one of which is providing structural support to maintain cell shape. Research has shown that the actin cytoskeleton is disrupted and may also play an active role in the pore dynamics during electroporation of the cell membrane. However, our knowledge of the underlying biophysical mechanisms of this process is limited.
This project aims to uncover the biophysical interactions between electroporation and the actin cytoskeleton.
Techniques
- Microfabrication of a microfluidic-aspiration-and-electroporation (MFAE) device
- Extract material properties from data
- Confocal Imaging
Further reading
Muralidharan, A., et al. (2022). Bioelectrochemistry, 147, 108197. DOI: 10.1016/j.bioelechem.2022.108197.
Stiffness of cancer tissue impacts efficacy of immune therapies: 3D-printing meets T-cells
Supervisor: Mahdiyeh Nouri, m.nourigoushki@tudelft.nl
Imagine a world where cancer can be treated with remarkable success using the body’s own immune system. T-cell therapy, a revolutionary approach that engineers immune cells to target cancer, has made significant strides in treating blood cancers. However, its efficacy against solid tumors, like those in breast or bone tissues, has been limited. The reason? Neglecting the impact of the mechanical properties of cancer tissues on T-cell behavior.
Our MSc thesis project, “Stiffness of Cancer Tissue Impacts Efficacy of Immune Therapies: 3D-Printing Meets T-Cells,” endeavors to bridge this critical knowledge gap. We aim to engineer 3D-printed micro-scaffolds that mimic the mechanical and morphological properties of breast cancer tissue. Through this, we will explore how these properties influence T-cell proliferation and responses. This innovative project blends the bioengineering of T-cells with the fabrication of a 3D tumor microenvironment in vitro.
Techniques
- Bioprinting
- Cell culture
- Confocal Imaging