Vascularization of capillary-scale channels in type I collagen gels

This work examines physical and chemical signals that promote in vitro vascularization of capillary-scale channels in type I collagen gels. We show that retrograde pressure induces endothelial migration and cyclic AMP promotes endothelial stability. Together, these signals enabled vascularization of microchannels as narrow as 11 μm, matching the size scale of capillaries. Further optimization of these signals may allow the formation of perfused, functional capillary-scale vessels. Such engineered capillaries may assist studies of normal and pathological vascularization, and may provide building blocks to create clinically viable vascularized tissue constructs.