Using Robotic Technology to Select Material for Scaffolds
Scaffolds are molds in the shape of organs and tissues and are the building blocks of regenerative medicine. These scaffolds are "seeded" with cells and support the cells as they grow and develop. Scaffolds are the essential components of tissue engineering efforts.
The ideal biomaterial is one that is compatible with the body, promotes cell growth and degrades into the body once the engineered tissue has fully integrated with existing tissue. Our scientists use robotic systems to test how potential biomaterials interact with cells. By investigating the interactions between cells and biomaterials, we’re able to identify new and novel biomaterials that can be used in future tissue engineering.
The Precision XS robotic system, shown in the video above, is able to process 96 samples in less than 14 seconds. This high-throughput screening of biomaterials lets us assess hundreds of potential scaffold types that may assist us in our efforts to utilize regenerative technology to form bone, skin and nerve tissue.