Manipulation of magnetically labeled and unlabeled cells with mobile magnetic traps

A platform of discrete microscopic magnetic elements patterned on a surface offers dynamic control over the motion of fluid-borne cells by reprogramming the magnetization within the magnetic bits. T-lymphocyte cells tethered to magnetic microspheres and untethered leukemia cells are remotely manipulated and guided along desired trajectories on a silicon surface by directed forces with average speeds up to 20 microm/s. In addition to navigating cells, the microspheres can be operated from a distance to push biological and inert entities and act as local probes in fluidic environments.