(Bio)mechanical characterizations and imaging techniques

The last training visit within the EEA Grant NoRoTech was dedicated to (bio)mechanical tests and specific imagining techniques regarding the characterization of 3D scaffolds for tissue engineering. The five days training (24-28.04.2017) took place in the laboratories of the Tissue Engineering Research Group at University of Bergen, Norway. Dr. Mohamad Yassin and Dr. Ying Xue were the experienced researchers responsible for the training of Dr. Andrada Serafim and MSc. Elena Olaret, both researchers at the University Politehnica of Bucharest.

The main focus of the visit was the training regarding the use of the SKYSCAN micro CT (Bruker) and envisaged two type of tests: (1) for the visualization of the scaffolds architecture and analysis of their structure (type of porosity, dimension of pores, pores’ walls thickness, etc.) and (2) mechanical tests (compression or tension) followed by the scaffolds analysis. The tests were performed on porous 3D scaffolds fabricated either through salt leaching or 3D printing. Both natural and synthetic polymers were analyzed.

The trained researchers also had the opportunity to learn about the dynamic cell culture performed in a bioreactor; seeded hydrogels are subjected to compressive forces, under controlled conditions with the aim to investigate cells’ behavior under stress.

A more detailed report regarding microCT and the performed visualization tests can be found here.