Enabling Techniques for Biomedical Research

Abstract

This dissertation discusses a variety of elements including the study of open microfluidic capillary systems, the generation of hydrogels with lumens and cell culture using these systems, and an UW IRB-approved study involving the immune response to COVID-19. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to open microfluidics capillary systems as well as cell culture using hydrogels. Chapter 2 investigates the effect of combining two types of capillary pumps within an open microfluidic devices on multiple solvent types. Chapter 3 discusses multiple methods of making hydrogel lumens, including culturing endothelial cells on the luminal wall and culturing smooth muscle cells within a hydrogel ring. The first method involves extrusion of hydrogel tubes while the second method discuses a device used to fabricate hydrogel rings. Chapter 4 introduces an ongoing COVID-19 pre-symptomatic study. The study design is presented along with initial demographics data for participants and feedback on study kit usability.