Emilia Entcheva
Department of Biomedical Engineering

   A major problem with in vitro studies of cardiac function is
preserving the cellular phenotype and counteracting atrophy. We use
surface-patterned elastic scaffolds to control the morphological and
electromechanical properties of cardiac cells grown on them. By
providing a three-dimensional microenvironment (introducing deep
microgrooves), we improve cell function, quantified in several
different aspects. The engineered cardiac constructs on
topographically modified elastic scaffolds develop persistent and
synchronized contractile activity. Their more mature looking
cytoskeletal architecture reflects this augmented mechanical
performance. Moreover, cell-to-cell communication is enhanced, as
measured by confocal imaging, immunocytochemistry and
"granulometry", an image processing technique. Calcium transients
also demonstrate higher magnitude as compared to control. This
cell-based platform, different from traditional culturing
techniques, could be a valuable tool in screening of anti-arrhythmic
pharmacological targets.