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Investigating Mechanisms of Glioma Cell Migration Within A 3D Biomimetic Microenvironment

Powell, Amanda Jean

Abstract Details

2014, Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering, Cleveland State University, Washkewicz College of Engineering.
Despite advances in medical practices and technologies, glioblastoma multiform continues to present as one of the most malignant forms of cancerous cerebral tumors. A rapid, infiltrative cellular phenotype characterizes glioblastoma tumors, often leading to tumor necrosis and uncontrollable vascular proliferation reflected through a malignant morphology. Histologically defined by numerous multinucleated giant cells with various morphological features, glioblastoma cells are typically characterized by their ability to aggressively proliferate, migrate, and remodel surrounding environment. These morphological features were shown to be influenced by the structure of the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM), as well as by the presence of gradients imposed by nutrients and other components necessary for cell vitality. Little research, however, has gone into studying the effects of diffusible gradients mediating the migration of tumor masses. In this study, we developed a microfluidic device capable of incorporating multiple 3D matrices, signaling molecules, and heterogeneous cell types, for studying glioma cell migratory behavior in response to diffusive chemogradients. Results suggest that glioblastoma cell migration is strongly influenced by the stiffness of matrix microenvironment (type I collagen; 1-3 mg/mL), type (VEGF vs. EGF) and concentration (0-10 micromoles) of growth factor gradients, and the presence or absence of heterogeneous cells (human microvascular endothelial cells). Results from such studies not only expand our understanding of cancer cell biology, but also could lead to therapeutic drug development and screening, identification of targeting moieties on cell surfaces, and so forth.
Chandra Kothapalli, PhD (Committee Chair)
Joanne Belovich, PhD (Committee Member)
Moo-Yeal Lee, PhD (Committee Member)
111 p.

Recommended Citations

Citations

  • Powell, A. J. (2014). Investigating Mechanisms of Glioma Cell Migration Within A 3D Biomimetic Microenvironment [Master's thesis, Cleveland State University]. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=csu1400683051

    APA Style (7th edition)

  • Powell, Amanda. Investigating Mechanisms of Glioma Cell Migration Within A 3D Biomimetic Microenvironment. 2014. Cleveland State University, Master's thesis. OhioLINK Electronic Theses and Dissertations Center, http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=csu1400683051.

    MLA Style (8th edition)

  • Powell, Amanda. "Investigating Mechanisms of Glioma Cell Migration Within A 3D Biomimetic Microenvironment." Master's thesis, Cleveland State University, 2014. http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=csu1400683051

    Chicago Manual of Style (17th edition)