FURI | Spring 2021

Simulation-Guided Preparation of 3D In Vitro Models with Predictable Oxygen Distribution

Tissue oxygenation is an emerging area of study as knowledge suggests that hypoxia plays a key role in the progression of various diseases including cancer, stroke, and traumatic injuries. This research aims to create a 3D in vitro model that allows quantitative mapping of the pO₂ distribution within a 3D cell culture with MRI. In-silico results of the O₂ sensitive 3D-MR scaffold (O₂S3DMRS) were obtained through COMSOL Multiphysics. This is useful for hypoxia research as it allows monitoring the dynamic pO₂ profile within the tissue, providing insights into the cellular responses of hypoxia while assessing other reliable MR imaging agents.