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Transparent magnetic photoresists for bioanalytical applications
Philip C Gach1, Christopher E Sims, Nancy L Allbritton
1Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
Biomaterials
|August 20, 2010
Summary
Transparent magnetic photoresists were developed for bioanalytical microdevices. These novel magnetic materials enable high-resolution imaging and efficient cell sorting, improving microdevice utility.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Biotechnology
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Microfabricated magnetic devices are crucial for bioanalysis but often lack transparency.
- Existing methods limit light microscopy due to opaque magnetic materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop uniformly transparent magnetic photoresists for advanced bioanalytical microdevices.
- To ensure consistent magnetism and high optical transparency in microstructures.
Main Methods:
- Incorporated 10 nm maghemite nanoparticles into SU-8 and 1002F photoresists using organic capping and solvent-based dispersion.
- Fabricated microstructures with high aspect ratios and resolution using the developed magnetic photoresists.
- Assessed nanoparticle dispersion via transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and evaluated cell adhesion and viability.
Main Results:
- Achieved high transparency in photoresists with 0.01-1% maghemite concentration due to even nanoparticle dispersal.
- Fabricated microstructures with aspect ratios up to 4:1 and 3 μm resolution.
- Demonstrated excellent cell adhesion and viability, with successful single-cell sorting and colony formation (85-92% viability).
Conclusions:
- Developed novel transparent magnetic photoresists suitable for bioanalytical microdevices.
- Addressed nanoparticle leaching through surface capping or roughening, ensuring cell viability.
- Highlighted the potential of these materials for microfluidic cell sorting and other bioanalytical applications.
