Microfluidic device and system for precisely controlling and analyzing shear forces in blast-induced traumatic brain injuries

A microfluidic system for precisely controlling shear forces generated by a blast shock wave, the system comprising:

• a microfluidic device comprising:
• a top structure attached to a bottom structure in which the bottom structure defines a microfluidic channel having a first end and a second end, the microfluidic channel including an inlet at the first end and an outlet at the second end;
• an inlet reservoir engaged to the top structure and in fluid communication with the inlet of the microfluidic channel, wherein the inlet reservoir includes a baffle defining a restricted opening;
• and
• an outlet reservoir engaged to the top structure and in fluid communication with the outlet of the microfluidic channel;
• a liquid media solution that fills the microfluidic device;
• and
• a pneumatic device in fluid communication with the microfluidic device to deliver a pressurized gas that generates a blast shock wave having a quick rise and fall in pressure that causes a short and fast movement of the liquid media solution through the restricted opening of the baffle and supports a laminar flow of the liquid media solution through the microfluidic channel.