3D TISSUE ENGINEERING BY TWO-PHOTON LASER SCANNING

Abstract

This thesis reports the fabrication of 3D microstructured scaffolds by two-photon laser scanning photolithography (TPLSP) and its applications for 3D cell cultures. Computer-designed 3D structures were created by a laser stereolithography with a femto-second infrared laser which locally polymerizes the photosensitive polymer materials. This approach provides scaffolds at submicron resolution with high reproducibility, and good cell compatibility. In addition, we have successfully demonstrated the 3D cell culture on culturing hepatocytes and liver cells in the 3D microstructures. The patterned cells maintain correct cellular function, as reflected by the albumin expression of cultured hepatocytes. Moreover, we have developed a cell encapsulation method which allows us to pre-mix the seeding cells with photosensitive polymers, and then patterned with TPLSP microfabrication process. Our biomimetic 3D microstructures would provide the architecture to control cell-cell interactions and to guide cells to grow in conditions similar to that in vivo.