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Separating Beads and Cells in Multi-channel Microfluidic Devices Using Dielectrophoresis and Laminar Flow
Published on: February 4, 2011
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Two-dimensional numerical modeling for separation of deformable cells using dielectrophoresis
1School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore, Singapore.
Electrophoresis
|July 2, 2014
Summary
This study demonstrates successful separation of deformable cells using a microfluidic dielectrophoretic (DEP) chip. The microchip effectively separates cells based on dielectric properties at high and low frequencies.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Microfluidics
- Cellular Engineering
Background:
- Dielectrophoresis (DEP) is a technique used to manipulate cells using non-uniform electric fields.
- Separating deformable cells in microfluidic devices presents challenges due to cell deformation and interaction forces.
Purpose of the Study:
- To numerically investigate the separation of two groups of deformable cells using a miniaturized dielectrophoretic microchip.
- To develop and validate a 2D two-fluid model for simulating cell separation under combined forces.
Main Methods:
- A 2D two-fluid model was developed, incorporating aggregation, deformation, and dielectrophoretic forces.
- Model validation was performed by comparing simulated cell levitation height with experimental data.
- Simulations were conducted for cell separation at high and low frequencies, considering different dielectric properties.
Main Results:
- Successful separation of deformable cells was achieved using a small DEP microchip.
- Separation occurred based on differing cell permittivities (high frequency) and conductivities (low frequency).
- Cells deformed into a lopsided slipper shape, with motion primarily driven by DEP forces and deformation by fluid flow.
Conclusions:
- Miniaturized DEP microchips are effective for separating deformable cells based on their dielectric properties.
- Cell deformation significantly influences the asymmetric motion during the separation process.
- The developed model accurately captures the complex interplay of forces in deformable cell separation.
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