University of Michigan

Sarah C Calve

Ellen M Arruda

Lisa M Larkin

Robert G Dennis

Paul E Kosnik

Tatiana Y Kostriminova

A system and method for forming a skeletal muscle construct include primary muscle cells provided on a substrate without disposing the cells within an exogenous scaffold, the cells cultured in vitro such that the cells form a confluent monolayer; at least two anchors secured to the monolayer in spaced relationship; and at least one secondary tissue, such as neural or tendon tissue, provided in contact with the monolayer such that the monolayer detaches from the substrate and self-organizes to at least partially surround the at least one secondary tissue, thereby forming a three-dimensional skeletal muscle construct having a functional interface with the secondary tissue.

System and method for forming skeletal muscle constructs having functional tissue interfaces

A system and method are provided for forming a connective tissue construct, such as a tendon construct, in vitro. A substrate is provided with at least two anchors secured thereto in spaced relationship. Fibroblast cells are provided on the substrate in the absence of a synthetic matrix, where at least some of the cells are in contact with the anchors. The cells are cultured in vitro under conditions to allow the cells to self-organize and become confluent between the anchors, where the anchors are receptive to the cells and allow the cells to attach thereto while permitting the cells to detach from the substrate to form a three-dimensional connective tissue construct.

Growing community of inventors

Darien, CT, United States of America

Sarah C Calve