In order to directly study the emergent behaviors of 3D multicellular structures, it will be necessary to be able to: (1) control uniform and reproducible multicellular assembly, (2) incorporate regulatory and sensory technologies within cell aggregates, (3) examine phenotype dynamics (in space and time), and (4) model cell-cell and cell-environment interactions. Multicellular aggregates can be formed and manipulated by microscale technologies and maintained as individual distinct clusters for prolonged periods of time in suspension culture and/or hydrogel encapsulation. The biochemical and biophysical properties of the extracellular environment within multicellular clusters can be manipulated by introducing different environmental cues capable of influencing cell fate decisions.

EBICS Research Director: Ron Weiss, Massachussetts Institute of Technology