Fabrication of 3D matrix microenvironment by two-photon lithography for mechanobiology study

Hybrid Metasurface for On-Chip Enrichment and Quantification of Biological Samples

This work reports a 3D-printed metasurface as a biosensing device that combines the functions of sample enrichment and quantification. The device consists of a nanoplasmonic sensing element surrounded by a biomimetic hydrophobic structure. The hydrophobic structure serves as a sample concentrator that can enrich analyte, which is subsequently quantified by the nanoplasmonic biosensor. Both the nanoscale biosensor and microscale hydrophobic sample concentrator were fabricated using two-photon polymerization lithography (TPL). The hydrophobic microstructure was inspired by natural patterns found on surfaces like lotus leaves, which are known for their water-repellent properties. The TPL-based 3D printing approach enables the integration of two functions into one chip with a high-resolution and simple fabrication process. The device was employed to detect swine influenza A virus within a droplet initially containing 20 μL of liquid. During testing, the droplet's volume decreased due to evaporation driven by plasmonic heating. As a result, the droplet's diameter can shrink from 3.4 mm to 0.1 mm in 15 min. The volume reduction corresponds to a virus concentration increase of over 4 × 104 times. Integrating superhydrophobic sample concentration with the nanoplasmonic biosensor significantly improves analyte immobilization dynamics, enhances sensitivity, and reduces assay time.

Directed Cell Growth of C2C12 Cells on ECM Free Bioprinted Nano/Micro Scaffolds

Skeletal muscle cell growth impairment can result in severe health issues, such as reduced mobility, metabolic problems, and cardiovascular issues, which can significantly impact an individual's overall health and lifestyle. To address this issue, it is essential to adopt a multi-faceted approach. Conventional 2D cell culture methods fail to replicate the critical features of in vivo micro/nanoarchitecture, which is crucial for the growth of skeletal muscle cells. In this study, the directed growth of mouse skeletal myoblasts (C2C12) cells on ECM-free biocompatible scaffolds is demonstrated and fabricated using two-photon lithography (TPL). These scaffolds are 2D and 3D and have nano/micro-features derived from chitosan-based carbon quantum dots (Ch-CQDs). Ch-CQDs act as two-photon initiators for TPL and also provide the scaffolds with adequate mechanical strength and specific binding sites. These scaffolds are biocompatible and can support cellular adhesion and growth without the need for ECM coating. The nano/micro scaffolds mimic the in vivo cellular microenvironment, enabling directed cell growth on ECM-free surfaces. The fabricated scaffolds have tunable mechanical strength ranging from 0.09 to 0.75 GPa. By using Ch-CQDs, scaffolds are created that promote cell growth and alignment, which is crucial for skeletal muscle cell growth.

Mechanical impact on biomineralization: Enhancing the strength of composite materials

A recent study published in Nature Communications introduces a novel mechanically-mediated reaction involving ZnO nanoparticles that autonomously react, forming Zn/S mineral microrods within an organogel. These microrods selectively reinforce synthetic polymer composites, offering a unique approach to material strengthening. The method provides a distinctive pathway for mechanical mineralization in composite materials.

Current Immunotherapy Strategies for Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Immunoengineering and Delivery Systems

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease accompanied by persistent multiarticular synovitis and cartilage degradation. The present clinical treatments are limited to disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and aims to relieve pain and control the inflammation of RA. Despite considerable advances in the research of RA, the employment of current clinical procedure is enormous, hindered by systemic side effect, frequent administration, tolerance from long-lasting administration, and high costs. Emerging immunoengineering-based strategies, such as multiple immune-active nanotechnologies via mechanism-based immunology approaches, have been developed to improve specific targeting and to reduce adverse reactions for RA treatments. Here, we review recent studies in immunoengineering for the treatment of RA. The prospect of future immunoengineering treatment for RA has also been discussed.