A fluid dynamics-model system for advancing Tissue Engineering and Cancer Research studies: Dynamic Culture with the innovative BioAxFlow Bioreactor

Abstract

In this study, we test an innovative bioreactor, particularly suitable for tissue engineering applications, named BioAxFlow. Unlike traditional bioreactors, it does not rely on mechanical components to agitate the culture medium, but on the fluid-dynamics generated thanks to the unique geometry of the culture chamber. The flow generated within ensures continuous medium movement, promoting consistent cell exposure to nutrients and growth factors. Using the human osteosarcoma cell line SAOS-2, the bioreactors ability to enhance cell adhesion and proliferation on polylactic acid scaffolds, mimicking bone tissue matrix architecture, is tested. The findings show that the bioreactor significantly improved cell adhesion and growth compared to static cultures, promoting a homogeneous cell distribution across the scaffold surfaces, which is crucial for developing functional tissue constructs. The bioreactor preserves the osteogenic potential of SAOS-2 cells as assessed by the expression of key osteogenic markers. Additionally, it retains the tumorigenic characteristics of SAOS-2 cells, including the expression of pro-angiogenic factors and apoptosis-related genes. These results indicate that the BioAxFlow bioreactor is an effective platform for tissue engineering and cancer research, offering a promising tool for both regenerative medicine applications and drug testing.