Development of a microfluidic system with a bearing micropump for applying fluid shear force in an intervertebral disc degeneration model involving mechanical stimulation

Background The intervertebral disc (IVD) functions as a shock absorber with viscoelastic tissues, including the gelatinous nucleus pulposus and the collagenous annulus fibrosus (AF). External mechanical loading influences IVD homeostasis but can cause damage and inflammatory reactions, contributing to disc degeneration. There is a lack of in vitro platforms for modeling IVD disease with mechanical stimulation. Methods This study aimed to create a mechanical stimulation-based model by subjecting AF cells to shear stress using a micropump system. A micropump platform was used to measure pulsation, flow rate, and shear stress. AF cells were exposed to fluid shear stress of 0.5 and 1 dyne/cm², and morphological changes, cytotoxicity, and cell viability were analyzed through a live/dead assay. Perimeter, area, diameter, and elongation were assessed using live cell imaging and imaging analysis software. Results The micropump platform exhibited optimal rotor characteristics for uniform pulsation and shear stress. Fluid shear stress at 0.5 dyne/cm² showed no significant difference from the control group, while 1 dyne/cm² reduced cell adhesion and survival. Comparing the 0.5 dyne/cm² shear stress group and interleukin-1β group to the control, significant decreases in perimeter, area, and diameter were observed. Conclusion The study successfully developed a micro-peristaltic pump platform for applying fluid shear stress to cells, identifying an optimal rotor for uniform stress application. The platform effectively modeled IVD disease, revealing reduced cell adhesion and survival under specific shear stress conditions. This platform has potential promise for discovering biomarkers and exploring cellular responsiveness to external stimuli.