Grant: Research Tools and Instruments

Microfluidic technology has proven to be a valuable tool in preparing micro and nanomaterials for biomedical applications. This technology allows for the precise manipulation of fluids in microchannels, leading to the design of various micro and nanomaterials such as microfibers, microspheres, and nanoparticles. These materials have paved the way for advanced drug and cell delivery and the creation of advanced in vitro three-dimensional cell culture models that mimic natural tissues and organs for in vitro studies and regenerative medicine applications. However, traditional techniques such as soft lithography with PDMS and coaxial glass capillaries limit our ability to produce complex microfluidic devices for creating multilayered droplets and hydrogel structures, nanoparticles, advanced organ-on-a-chip models, and microfluidic bioreactors. The introduction of 3D printing has been a game-changer in the fabrication of microfluidic devices. Unlike traditional methods, 3D printing creates more complex 3D geometries and reduces device making time to mere minutes. Among the various 3D printing technologies, Digital Light Processing (DLP) stands out as a preferred choice for creating microfluidic devices. At the Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Technology (iBEST), accessing novel 3D printing technologies that allow for complex microfluidic device fabrication is crucial. With the acquisition of a DLP-3D printer for microfluidic device printing, researchers at iBEST, a partnership institute between Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) and Unity Health Toronto, will be able to create new micro and nanomaterials for advanced drug delivery, in vitro 3D cell culture models, and bioreactors using advanced microfluidics platforms. This acquisition will help establish the institute as a leading international center for advanced micro and nanomaterials and in vitro cell-based studies. The DLP-3D printer is essential for six NSERC Discovery grant-sponsored research programs and several collaborative projects within the iBEST, including clinician researchers, scientists from Unity Health Toronto, and engineers and scientists from TMU. The research programs focus on the creation and experimental analysis of microfibers, microspheres, and nanoparticles as biomedical delivery platforms, advanced in vitro cell models, and tissue engineering. The six NSERC Discovery research programs train over 30 highly qualified personnel (HQP), and our HQP team members will have access to exceptional opportunities to participate in advanced training programs essential for careers in material science, biomedical engineering, nanotechnology, and biology. Hence, the procurement of this 3D printer is perfectly timed to drive progress in biomaterials and biomedical delivery systems while equipping Canadian professionals with the latest microfluidics expertise that meets current market demands.