Low-Cost Open Platform Digital Light Printer (OP-DLP) for 96-Well Format Hydrogel Printing and Localized Light-Activation

There is growing
demand for high-throughput light-based surface
processing methods for applications such as printing hydrogels, controlling
cell circuits with light, or activating materials on demand. However,
existing devices often fall short for multiwell plate use, require
complex synthesis steps, or lack flexibility for general research
needs, usually because they are designed for specific tasks. Here,
an open-platform digital light printer (OP-DLP) is introduced for
easy synthesis of two-dimensional (2D) hydrogels and spatial activation
of biomolecules. The device is controlled via a LabVIEW interface
that manages printing settings and planar corrections. Importantly,
its open platform design enables the use of different wavelengths
and compatibility with various printing vessels. Its utility is demonstrated
by hydrogel printing and spatial activation of DNA. Specifically,
OP-DLP can produce hydrogel layers of precise thickness in a 96-well
format with consistent results across the plate. Additionally, OP-DLP
can form 2D gels with specific shapes in different wells, allowing
modification of ink composition. Its spatial activation capability
is demonstrated by the localized de-caging of photocaged DNA on a
surface.