Microfluidic spheroid culture system for pancreatic cancer peptide screening
A cutting-edge microfluidic system that mimics the pancreatic tumor microenvironment to screen peptides targeting mitochondrial glutamate dehydrogenases, offering a novel approach to therapeutic testing and drug delivery challenges in pancreatic cancer.
Overview
This innovative microfluidic spheroid culture system offers a novel platform for screening peptides against pancreatic cancer by replicating the tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) in vitro. By utilizing a multi-inlet hanging spheroid technique, the system allows for the formation of cancer cell spheroids surrounded by stromal cells, accurately mimicking the dense fibrotic stroma and extracellular matrix of PDAC. This setup is pivotal for testing peptides that target mitochondrial glutamate dehydrogenases, potentially revolutionizing therapeutic approaches in stroma-rich tumor settings.
Technical specifications
- Multi-Inlet Hanging Spheroid Technique: Enables formation of heterotypic spheroids closely replicating the PDAC TME.
- Differentiation Protocols: Utilizes human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) to create myofibroblastic cancer-associated fibroblasts, enhancing the physiological relevance.
- Peptide Screening: Targets mitochondrial glutamate dehydrogenase to infiltrate and eliminate cancer cells within spheroids.
- Validation Phases: Includes structural integrity confirmation via atomic force microscopy and peptide efficacy assessment using fluorescence microscopy.
Technology readiness level
This system has reached a Technology Readiness Level of 8, indicating it has been proven to work in its final form and under expected conditions. The solution is ready for final confirmation and application in relevant environments.
About Sungkyunkwan University
Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU) is a comprehensive private research university with campuses in Seoul and Suwon, pairing deep heritage with a modern, industry‑oriented culture. Proximity to Samsung’s R&D and manufacturing hub and extensive on‑campus labs enable direct pathways for sponsored research, contract testing, and joint development. The medical school’s integration with a major tertiary hospital in Seoul provides access to clinical trials and device validation, while an industry–university cooperation foundation streamlines agreements and IP. Research is supported by competitive national funding from the National Research Foundation of Korea and relevant ministries, and a dedicated technology transfer office advances licensing and startup formation.
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