Engineered Blood Clots for Embolization in a 3D Microfluidic Chip Model Mimicking Vascular Structures

Abstract

This study presents a novel approach to embolization by developing biocompatible blood clot particles using natural substances and FDA-approved materials to address the limitations of currently used embolic agents, such as microspheres, gel foam, and polyvinyl alcohol, which are associated with immune responses and bleeding. By utilizing blood clot particles, the study aimed to reduce these side effects while maintaining effective embolization. The process involved injecting tissue plasminogen activator and plasmin to degrade the blood clot particles at a desired time, ensuring control over the embolization duration. To evaluate the particles, a 3D microfluidic chip was designed to simulate blood vessels, and the embolization effect was tested along with the potential inflammatory response. Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells were cultured on the chip to assess inflammation by tracking tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukin-6 levels during embolization. Key findings of the study showed that these biocompatible blood clot particles successfully achieved embolization for about 7 days and triggered a lower release of inflammatory cytokines compared to standard microspheres. This suggests that blood clot particles could serve as a viable alternative for embolization, offering improved biocompatibility and a manageable embolization duration.