Optimizing Cell Media Formulations for Cell Growth and Microsphere Compatibility for Enhanced Microbot Performance 

Presenter

Brian Stephen McDonough

Campus

Bunker Hill Community College

Sponsor

Vijaya Chalivendra, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Bunker Hill Community College

Schedule

Session 2, 11:30 AM - 12:15 PM [Schedule by Time][Poster Grid for Time/Location]

Location

Poster Board A80, Campus Center Auditorium, Row 4 (A61-A80) [Poster Location Map]

Abstract

Light-actuated microbots represent a promising frontier in biomedical innovation, poised to transform medical practices with their ability to navigate the intricate terrain of the human body with fine precision. These tiny robots offer a pathway to targeted drug delivery and less invasive biopsy procedures, heralding significant advancements in healthcare. In recent in vitro experiments conducted on specialized microslides (Idibi μ-slide 15 well 3D) employing optical tweezers for manipulation, challenges emerged regarding microparticle adherence to the slide's surface, impeding effective control. Efforts were concentrated on modifying the cell media composition to address this issue. Through systematic testing, different concentrations of DMEM (cell media) and the supplement GlutaMAX® were evaluated in tandem to discover formulations that discourage sticking while promoting cell proliferation. Human melanoma (A375) cells were selected and cultured for experimentation purposes. Initial trials involved Ethyl-Cellulose microspheres, synthesized, and hardened in the laboratory setting. Findings indicated that solutions one and six, comprising 40% and 60% cell media respectively without GlutaMAX®, achieved optimal results, sustaining over 70% cell viability, and preventing adherence of more than 70% of microparticles. Solutions approaching a 1:1 ratio of cell media to water demonstrated superior performance across both metrics, indicating promising avenues for further exploration and refinement. 

Keywords

Biomedical, Microbots, Engineering

Research Area

Engineering

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