Specific collection of adherent cells using laser release in a droplet-driven capillary cell

Laser pressure catapulting of adherent cells directly or cells grown on micropallets are two common methods of dislodgement. We describe a method where laser catapulting is performed as a flow is introduced orthogonally in a simple capillary chamber that is inexpensive and obviates flow-generating devices. The moving cells terminate near the contact line within the liquid medium, ensuring that they remain continuously hydrated and where the surface-tension forces hold them in place to permit a later collection process with a receptacle. By dislodging the cells close to the free edge of the liquid chamber, the amount of cell travel and, thus, contamination is minimized. The metrics of cell death and movement show that firing of the laser beam center a distance away from the cell to create a bubble that cavitates over time is more viable with the technique than directly on the cell.