Date of Award

January 2025

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biomedical Engineering

First Advisor

Ryan Striker

Abstract

Cellular migration assays, particularly scratch assays, are pivotal in biomedical research for cell motility, wound healing, and metastasis. However, conventional scratch assays suffer from variability due to operator dependence, non-uniform scratch geometry, and a modified microenvironment that impacts reproducibility. This thesis presents the development and validation of a low-cost, 3D-printed device designed to standardize cellular migration assays. The device utilizes a spring mechanism and a biocompatible elastomer to create a uniform cellular exclusion zone without harming the surrounding cells. Through iterative prototyping and testing with MCF10A cell lines, the device demonstrated a significantly lower average standard deviation of length compared to manual pipette scratches, p<0.0001. It also proved capable of supporting normal cell proliferation and migration behaviors. The design's affordability, ease of use, and compatibility with standard cell culture practices position it as a valuable alternative for enhancing the reliability of cell migration studies across diverse biomedical applications.

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