Versatile, simple-to-use microfluidic cell-culturing chip for long-term, high-resolution, time-lapse imaging.

Area of Science:

• Cell biology
• Microfluidics
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Long-term optical observation of single cells is crucial for understanding cell variability, heredity, and differentiation.
• Existing methods may lack the resolution or throughput for detailed multi-generational studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an advanced microfluidic device for facile, high-resolution, long-term live-cell imaging.
• To enable parallel culturing of different cell strains with controlled media perfusion and minimal cross-talk.

Main Methods:

• Design and fabrication of a novel microfluidic device optimized for nonadherent cells like Saccharomyces cerevisiae.
• Implementation of parallel culturing chambers allowing for independent control of media conditions (aerobic/anaerobic).
• Adaptability for various cell types including bacteria and mammalian cells with minor modifications.

Main Results:

• The device allows facile cell loading, robust operation, and high-resolution imaging of cell colonies over multiple generations.
• Parallel culturing of different cell strains is achieved without cross-talk, under constant or dynamic media conditions.
• The platform supports controlled colony growth under both aerobic and anaerobic conditions.

Conclusions:

• The developed microfluidic platform offers a versatile and accessible tool for detailed live-cell imaging and multi-generational studies.
• It simplifies the investigation of cell-to-cell variability, heredity, and differentiation in various microbial and potentially mammalian systems.
• The device requires minimal technical expertise and additional laboratory equipment for operation.