Tiny tech advances human tissue modeling in Washington State

Researchers at UW Medicine and the University of Washington in Seattle have developed a new 3D-printed device called STOMP (Suspended Tissue Open Microfluidic Patterning) that significantly advances human tissue engineering. 

This fingertip-sized tool allows scientists to create more complex and precisely controlled models of human tissue by manipulating the spatial arrangement and composition of different cell types. 3D tissue engineering, which has recently undergone major advances in speed and accuracy, helps biomedical researchers design and test therapies for a range of diseases.

STOMP builds on existing methods by using capillary action to distribute cells in customizable patterns within a gel, recreating biological interfaces like bone and heart tissue. The device also allows tissues to remain intact after the mold is removed, which enhances versatility in experiments. The STOMP platform’s versatility has been tested in two key experiments: one comparing the contractile behavior of healthy and diseased heart tissue, and another modeling the ligament-to-bone connection in teeth. 

Led by professors Nate Sniadecki and Ashleigh Theberge, the interdisciplinary team sees STOMP as a breakthrough that will empower other researchers to explore cell signaling and tissue dynamics with greater precision. “This method opens new possibilities for tissue engineering and cell signaling research,” Theberge said.

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