Functional evaluation of magnetic microactuators for removing biological accumulation: an in vitro study

Here we demonstrate the functional capability of microfabricated magnetic actuators in clearing biological accumulation on a model catheter pore. Cell-clearing performance was quantitatively measured by comparing the effect of actuation on the cell density of aggressively growing adherent murine cells. Devices were actuated at a frequency of 100 Hz and a magnetic field of 17.8 kA/m for 30, 45, or 60 min. On average, microactuators removed 37.4% of the adherent cells. The results also revealed that the cell-clearing capability of the microactuator increased as a function of the actuation duration and angle of deflection.