Microfluidic interactions between red blood cells and drug carriers by image analysis techniques

Area of Science:

• Biophysics
• Fluid Dynamics
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Blood flow dynamics are critical for systemic drug delivery.
• Micron-sized carriers require consideration of blood's complex composition for effective delivery.
• Red blood cells (RBCs) significantly impact fluid behavior in microcirculation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of red blood cells (RBCs) on the behavior of micron-sized particles (μ-Ps) in microcapillary flow.
• To analyze the transport and distribution of μ-Ps under hydrodynamic conditions mimicking human microcirculation.
• To understand how RBC interactions affect μ-Ps' movement and potential therapeutic efficacy.

Main Methods:

• In vitro fluid dynamic investigation using high-speed imaging.
• Experiments conducted in a 50 µm diameter glass capillary simulating microcirculation.
• Analysis of μ-Ps (0.5–3 µm) and RBCs' velocity profiles, radial distribution, and wall migration.

Main Results:

• RBCs affect the velocity profiles of μ-Ps in microcapillary flow.
• The radial distribution of μ-Ps is altered in the presence of RBCs.
• Hydrodynamic interactions between RBCs and μ-Ps lead to μ-Ps migration towards the vessel wall.

Conclusions:

• RBCs significantly impact the transport and distribution of micron-sized carriers in microcirculation.
• The hydrodynamic interactions between RBCs and μ-Ps are key factors in carrier behavior.
• Understanding these interactions is essential for optimizing the therapeutic efficacy of micron-sized drug delivery systems.