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Real time in vitro measurement of oxygen uptake rates for HEPG2 liver cells encapsulated in alginate matrices

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Abstract

Quantitative non-invasive measurement of critical physiological parameters is necessary to assess the functionality and applicability of tissue engineered matrices. Advancements in fiber optic sensors have made it possible for measuring parameters such as oxygen, glucose, and aminoacids necessary for viable tissue growth. In this study, we have devised an experimental protocol to measure in real time, the oxygen uptake rate (OUR) values for a selected liver cell line (HEPG2) when grown (a) on cover glass slides, and (b) encapsulated within alginate based hydrogel matrices. For both cases, the oxygen uptake rates of HEPG2 cells at selected time points varied in close co-relation with cell proliferation and metabolic activity during the 7-day culture period. This investigation concludes that OUR can be used as an indicative parameter to assess the metabolic activity of cells encapsulated within a matrix. The study also presents a fiber optic sensing technology as a non-invasive diagnostic tool to monitor cell behavior and activity.

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Acknowledgments

The research results discussed in this publication were made possible by the OHRS award #HR07-158 from the Oklahoma Center for Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) and the Office of Vice President for Research at the University of Oklahoma. Authors acknowledge Dr. Barbara S. Mroczka (Department of Zoology, University of Oklahoma) for her guidance and helpful suggestions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Bioengineering Center, University of Oklahoma, Norman, OK, 73019, USA

    Anuja Mishra & Binil Starly

  2. School of Industrial Engineering, University of Oklahoma, 202W Boyd St, 116B, Norman, OK, 73019, USA

    Binil Starly

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  1. Anuja Mishra
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  2. Binil Starly
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Correspondence to Binil Starly.

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Mishra, A., Starly, B. Real time in vitro measurement of oxygen uptake rates for HEPG2 liver cells encapsulated in alginate matrices. Microfluid Nanofluid 6, 373–381 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10404-008-0396-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10404-008-0396-z

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