A novel double-layer parallel-plate flow chamber

In the present study, we designed and developed a novel double-layer parallel-plate flow chamber (PPFC) to study the dynamic response of vascular endothelial cells to controlled levels of shear stress. In addition, the effects of fluid shear stress on the structure and function of endothelial cells were examined to validate whether a novel PPFC can be employed for studies in the areas of biomedical research. Human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1) were either maintained in static condition or exposed to laminar flow for 24 h. The morphological changes and attenuated expression of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as ICAM-1, VCAM-1, and E-selectin were observed in endothelial cells exposed to the flow. HMEC-1 cells were also either maintained in continuous laminar flow (Normal flow) or subjected to 1 h of flow cessation followed by reperfusion (12 h) of flow (Ischemia/Reperfusion). The real-time RT-PCR analysis showed that Ischemia/Reperfusion significantly up-regulated expression of pro-inflammatory mediators in HMEC-1 compared to Normal flow, which is consistent with previous in vivo studies. These data indicate that our newly designed PPFC can provide a better in vitro system for versatile applications of biomedical research.