In these systems, control over fluid flow is typically achieved via displacement-based or pneumatic pumping schemes 14, 15, 16. Microfluidic approaches leverage the precise manipulation of fluids to introduce unique experimental capabilities in biological applications 1, 2, 3, including the defined biophysical stimulation of cultured cells 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, the controlled influx of chemical compounds 9, 10, 11, and the introduction of secondary cell populations to the culture environment 12, 13. We anticipate that our 3D printed fabrication approach and open-access designs will enable customized µPRs that can support a broad range of microfluidic applications. We detail the design and fabrication of the µPR and: (i) demonstrate a tunable outlet pressure range relevant for microfluidic applications (1–10 kPa), (ii) highlight dynamic control capabilities in a microfluidic network, (iii) and maintain human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in a multi-compartment culture device under continuous perfusion conditions. To this end, we introduce a tunable, 3D printed micro pressure regulator (µPR) and show that it can provide robust flow control capabilities when combined with a battery-powered miniature air pump to support microfluidic applications. Thus, there is a need for a simplified flow control platform that provides standard perfusion capabilities and can be easily integrated into incubated environments. In addition, microfluidic culture studies are primarily carried out under constant perfusion conditions and more complex flow capabilities are often unused.

However, it can be challenging to integrate these large form-factor devices and accompanying peripherals into incubators or other confined environments. Microfluidic flow control is generally achieved using displacement-based (e.g., syringe or peristaltic pumps) or pressure-controlled techniques that provide numerous perfusion options, including constant, ramped, and pulsed flows. Well-defined fluid flows are the hallmark feature of microfluidic culture systems and enable precise control over biophysical and biochemical cues at the cellular scale.

Static equilibrium 3d examples