Tunable substrate with electrodes for cardiomyocyte maturation compatible with high throughput testing

Abstract

In vitro induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes (iPSC-CMs) can be used to test cardiotoxicity and study disease. When developing new drugs, cardiotoxicity needs to be tested. However, the immaturity of iPSC-CMs in vitro is a limitation. Studies have shown that physical and electrical stimulation aid in maturation of iPSC-CMs. Kirigami, the Japanese art of paper cutting, concepts are applied to design and create an easily manufacturable substrate. The krigami substrate in tandem with a custom well plate provide sufficient conditions for cardiomyocytes to mature while providing mechanical stimulation. Further, this design can be manufactured rapidly, allowing it to be compatible with high throughput testing.