John and Marcia Price College of Engineering
15 Microfluidic Chamber to Mimic Inner Ear Endolymph and Perilymph Dynamics
Radhika Bhakta
Faculty Mentor: Holly Holman (Bioengineering, University of Utah)
Understanding the cellular physiology of the inner ear’s glial-like supporting cells and sensory hair cells is difficult amongst the ionic and pH fluctuation posing a challenge due to the small size and intricate structure of the vestibular organs. This study aims to address the challenges through the development of an in-vitro microfluidic chamber. The methodology involves micro-dissection of the inner ear organs, focusing on the semicircular canals and their associated hair cells, essential for transmitting positional signals to the brain. Leveraging software Fusion 360, a microfluidic chamber was designed and refined to fit within a 35 mm dish, allowing microscopic observation of tissue flow. Initial attempts using PLA/PHA filament proved inadequate due to the thickness causing the port to fold onto itself. This led to the adoption of Clear V4 resin for successful printing of the chamber with precise port dimensions. This innovative approach opens avenues for studying inner ear physiology under controlled conditions, facilitating deeper insight into sensory mechanisms through fluid mechanics.
