Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 18, 2026
09:45
Separating Beads and Cells in Multi-channel Microfluidic Devices Using Dielectrophoresis and Laminar Flow
Published on: February 4, 2011
28.2K
Controllably moving individual living cell in an array by modulating signal phase difference based on
1State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
Biosensors & Bioelectronics
|February 2, 2015
Summary
This study introduces a novel dielectrophoresis (DEP) method for precise cell manipulation using phase-modulated electrical signals. The technique enables label-free cell identification and differentiation, advancing single-cell analysis.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Microfluidics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Precise manipulation of individual living cells is crucial for advanced biological studies.
- Existing cell manipulation techniques often require labels or complex procedures.
- Dielectrophoresis (DEP) offers a label-free method for cell manipulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel dielectrophoresis (DEP) based method for manipulating individual living cells.
- To design a microchip with an array structure for controlled cell positioning and movement.
- To demonstrate label-free cell identification and differentiation using the developed method.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing a novel microchip with an array of quadrupole-electrode units.
- Employing negative dielectrophoresis (nDEP) for cell trapping and array formation.
- Modulating the phase difference of electrical signals to control cell movement and differentiation.
Main Results:
- Successful trapping and array formation of living cells using nDEP.
- Controllable movement of individual cells between electrode units by phase modulation.
- Effective label-free distinction between different cell types (MCF-7 and HeLa).
- Demonstrated identification of individual living cells from dead cells.
Conclusions:
- The developed DEP method provides efficient and flexible manipulation of individual living cells.
- The novel microchip design facilitates controlled cell positioning and array formation.
- This technique enables label-free cell identification and differentiation, valuable for single-cell studies.
