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Updated: Feb 24, 2026
Clinical Microfluidic Chip Platform for the Isolation of Versatile Circulating Tumor Cells
Published on: October 13, 2023
Microfluidic Separation of Circulating Tumor Cells Based on Size and Deformability
Emily S Park1, Simon P Duffy1, Hongshen Ma2
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada, V6T 1Z4.
This study presents a microfluidic device for separating circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from blood. The device sorts cells by size and deformability, aiding cancer metastasis research and diagnostics.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are crucial in cancer metastasis.
- CTCs hold potential for cancer prognosis and diagnosis.
- Effective methods for CTC isolation are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel microfluidic device for CTC separation.
- To detail the methodology for CTC identification and enumeration post-separation.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a microfluidic ratchet device for cell separation.
- Separation based on cell size and deformability via oscillatory flow and funnel constrictions.
- Employed immunofluorescence for CTC identification and enumeration.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a procedure for separating CTCs from whole blood.
- The device effectively sorts cells based on physical properties.
- Established methods for subsequent CTC analysis.
Conclusions:
- Microfluidic technology offers a promising approach for CTC isolation.
- This method aids in understanding cancer metastasis.
- Potential for improved prognostic and diagnostic tools in oncology.
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