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Updated: May 9, 2026
Fluorescence detection methods for microfluidic droplet platforms
Published on: December 10, 2011
3D pulsed laser-triggered high-speed microfluidic fluorescence-activated cell sorter.
Yue Chen1, Ting-Hsiang Wu, Yu-Chun Kung
1Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA), 43-147 Eng. IV, 420 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1597, USA. pychiou@seas.ucla.edu katechen@ucla.edu.
This study introduces a 3D microfluidic cell sorter using laser-induced cavitation bubbles for high-throughput sorting. It achieves rapid cell separation with high purity, advancing cell sorting technology.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Microfluidics
- Cell Sorting
Background:
- Traditional cell sorters face limitations in throughput and purity.
- Microfluidic devices offer potential for high-precision cell manipulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a 3D microfluidic cell sorter with high throughput and purity.
- To leverage laser-induced cavitation for cell deflection.
Main Methods:
- A 3D polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic channel was designed.
- Pulsed laser excitation generated cavitation bubbles for cell deflection.
- 3D sheath flows were employed for particle focusing and precise timing control.
Main Results:
- Achieved sorting throughput of 23,000 cells/s at 90% purity (high-purity mode).
- Achieved sorting throughput of 45,000 cells/s at 45% purity (enrichment mode).
- Demonstrated ultrafast switching mechanism (20 μs on-off cycle).
Conclusions:
- The developed 3D microfluidic sorter enables high-purity, high-throughput cell sorting.
- Laser-induced cavitation and 3D sheath flow focusing are key to performance.
- This technology advances capabilities in cell analysis and separation.
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