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Updated: May 31, 2026
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A Microfluidic Technique to Probe Cell Deformability
Published on: September 3, 2014
Deterministic microfluidic ratchet based on the deformation of individual cells
Quan Guo1, Sarah M McFaul, Hongshen Ma
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Summary
This study introduces a microfluidic ratchet for cell transport. It uses cell deformation in funnel constrictions to achieve selective and irreversible cell movement in microfluidic devices.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Microfluidics
- Cell Mechanics
Background:
- Microfluidic devices offer precise control over biological samples.
- Cellular deformability plays a crucial role in cell transport and manipulation.
- Selective cell separation is vital for diagnostics and research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a microfluidic ratchet mechanism for selective cell transport.
- To investigate the use of cell deformation in microscale funnel constrictions for directional movement.
- To demonstrate irreversible cell transport based on mechanical properties.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a microfluidic device with funnel constrictions.
- Measurement of pressure asymmetry for single-cell transport.
- Application of oscillatory pressure to induce ratcheting transport.
- Analysis of cell deformation during passage through constrictions.
Main Results:
- A pressure asymmetry was observed for cell transport through funnel constrictions, dependent on taper direction.
- Oscillatory pressure above a threshold amplitude and period enabled irreversible ratcheting transport.
- The mechanism demonstrated selective transport of individual cells.
Conclusions:
- The microfluidic ratchet effectively transports cells using their mechanical properties.
- This technology has potential for separating cells based on morphology or disease state.
- The findings open avenues for advanced cell manipulation in microfluidic systems.
