Quantitative Label-Free Imaging of 3D Vascular Networks Self-Assembled in Synthetic Hydrogels.

ABSTRACT: Vascularization is an important strategy to overcome diffusion limits and enable the formation of complex, physiologically relevant engineered tissues and organoids. Self-assembly is a technique to generate in vitro vascular networks, but engineering the necessary network morphology and function remains challenging. Here, autofluorescence multiphoton microscopy (aMPM), a label-free imaging technique, is used to quantitatively evaluate in vitro vascular network morphology. Vascular networks are generated using human embryonic stem cell-derived endothelial cells and primary human pericytes encapsulated in synthetic poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogels. Two custom-built bioreactors are used to generate distinct fluid flow patterns during vascular network formation: recirculating flow or cont

SUBMITTER: Kaushik G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6601624 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature