4D BioManufacturing Lab
Discover the power of Traction Force Microscopy (TFM), a cutting-edge technique that quantifies the forces exerted by cells on their surrounding substrate. TFM provides valuable insights into cell mechanics, migration, and interactions with the extracellular matrix, unlocking a deeper understanding of cellular behavior. In our research, we harness the potential of TFM with soft pillars, a specialized variation of this technique known as elastic micropost arrays or micropillar substrates. By leveraging TFM with soft pillars, we delve into the fascinating field of mechanobiology of cancer cells, unraveling the intricate dynamics of cell-substrate interactions.
Explore the versatility of paper-based microfluidic analytical devices (μPADs) that have gained attention for their affordability, ease of use, and lack of external power requirements. Our research introduces a novel fabrication method for 3D-μPADs made of plastics, eliminating the need for tedious assembly and enabling mass production. By utilizing liquid resin photopolymerization via a digital light processing (DLP) printer to print both sides of the paper, we offer a streamlined approach to effortlessly produce 3D-μPADs with tremendous potential for various applications.