Organizing & interfacing multiphoton-printed biomaterials with model cellular systems

Cellular studies using model in vitro systems limit environmental complexities that may obscure input-outcome relationships. To address the need for more relevant model systems, we have developed a platform for interfacing biomaterials with cultured cells with high spatiotemporal control. Pulsed near-infrared light is used to create protein-based cellular landscapes in a direct-write, multiphoton photo-crosslinking process patterned using a dynamic mask. High-resolution 3D environments are created either in advance of cellular application, or in the presence of viable cells, yielding dynamically controllable enclosures and surfaces for organizing cellular communities that more accurately reproduce mechanical, chemical, and convective properties of native environments.