Functionalization of hydrogels

Unrivalled performances

• Precise alignment with already existing topographies
• Hydrogels decoration
• Gradients and multi ligands patterning

Precise alignment with already existing topographies

The PRIMO projection system enables precise alignment of cells seeding on top of previously shaped hydrogels. Our technology permits the creation of substrate topology and allows a meticulous positioning of cells on the desire structure.

In this example, hydrogels were cured into topographies and subsequently decorated allowing COS-7 cells to colonize these structures, thus combining structural and biochemical features.

Hydrogels decoration

PRIMO provides an easy preparation of changeable virtual masks for patterning custom designs. The precise patterning system illuminates selected regions of the hydrogel with UV light, thus enabling hydrogel template to be tailored for cells to grow or self-organize.

In this experiment, a monomer containing a caged amine was co-polymerized in the hydrogel network. Upon UV light illumination, the primary amines were locally deprotected and serve as reactive groups for further functionalization. This technique of click chemistry won the Nobel Prize in chemistry 2022.

Gradients and multi ligands patterning

The PRIMO micropatterning system enables the formation of patterns of gradients and is also compatible with multi ligands.  Also, this technique is suitable with standard traction force microscopy experimentation.

In the same study, gradients of immobilized fluorescent labels were performed, through the use of virtual masks with a gradient in gray value. Moreover, micropatterning of two different dyes was also achieved.