A novel dynamic perfusion system for stem cell proliferation and timely observation

A novel dynamic perfusion system has been developed to provide fluid flow and mass transport for cell proliferation inside a scaffold. It was mainly composed of a micro-device, a peristaltic pump and two silicone tubes. The material of the device was polymethyl methacrylate, which is biocompatible and penetrates. The mesenchymal stem cells were labeled with DiI for 14 days' culture in the micro-device. It was shown from the experiment of dynamic culture that cells were well adhered to the scaffolds and cell growth could be observed directly and timely. Cell distribution within the scaffold was uneven for different nutrients supply and fluid shear stresses. The designed micro-device allows the continuous and dynamic observation in a large view during the culture of cells and could be used to study the effect of fluid shear stresses on cell proliferation in a direct view.