An innovative technology that creates thin layers of human cells in tube-like structures could pave the way for the development of lifelike blood vessels and intestines in a lab.
The technique, known as RIFLE – rotational internal flow layer engineering – enables the construction of separate layers as delicate as one cell thick.
This could allow scientists to develop accurate human models of layered tubular tissue for use in research, experts say, which would offer a valuable alternative to animal models.
Many researchers hope that lab-grown tissues could one day be used for research or transplantation purposes, with potentially groundbreaking implications for patients suffering from a range of conditions. It could also reduce the need for experiments involving animals.
Layered tubular tissue is found throughout the body – in blood vessels, the digestive tract and other organs. It can feature multiple cell types, generating layers with different properties and functions.
But scientists have previously struggled to organise cells into the complex structure seen in the body.
Experts at the University of Edinburgh say that RIFLE could act as a low-cost and fast biofabrication method that can work to a very small scale.
The technique involves injecting a small volume of liquid containing cells into a tube rotating at high-speed – up to 9000rpm. The speed of the rotation causes the cells to distribute evenly across the internal surface of the tube, with higher speeds resulting in thinner layers.
When this process is repeated, it builds up cell layers to create a tubular structure made of different, distinct layers, with a high density of cells.
Experts claim the ability to economically create layered tubular tissue in the lab could offer an important model for drug development.
Accurate human models of intestinal tissue could also enable companies to monitor how medicines taken orally are absorbed in the gut.
Project lead Dr Ian Holland, of the University of Edinburgh, said: “With the RIFLE technology, we can create, in the laboratory, the high-resolutions that we observe in human layered tubular tissue, such as blood vessels.
“Crucially, this uses the same materials and cells we find in our own bodies. This level of accuracy is essential for researchers who want to develop new medicines and investigate diseases – ultimately reducing the need for experiments involving animals.”
The developers of RIFLE said that further testing and clinical studies are needed before lab-grown tissue is available for use in human transplants.
