| abstract |
A method and materials to create complex vascularized living tissue in three dimensions from a two-dimension microfabricated mold has been developed. The method involved creating a two dimensional surface having a branching structure etched into the surface. The pattern begins with one or more large channels which serially branch into a large array of channels as small as individual capillaries, then converge to one or more large channels. The etched surface serves a template within a mold formed with the etched surface for the circulation of an individual tissue or organ. Living vascular cells are then seeded onto the mold, where they form living vascular channels based on the pattern etched in the mold. Once formed and sustained by their own matrix, the top of the mold is removed. The organ or tissue specific cells are then added to the etched surface, where they attach and proliferate to form a thin, vascularized sheet of tissue. The tissue can then be gently lifted from the mold using techniques such as fluid flow and other supporting material, as necessary. The tissue can then be systematically folded and compacted into a three-dimensional vascularized structure. This structure can then be implanted into animals or paitents by directly connecting the blood vessels to flow into and out of the device. Immediate perfusion of oxygenated blood occurs, which allows survival and function of the entire living mass. |