Single-cell microscopy of suspension cultures using a microfluidics-assisted cell screening platform

Area of Science:

• Microfluidics
• Cell Biology
• Microscopy

Background:

• Studies of nonadherent cells in suspension, like E. coli, face challenges balancing high-throughput screening with detailed imaging resolution.
• Existing methods often require extensive sample preparation, potentially altering native cell physiology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a microfluidics-assisted cell screening (MACS) platform to overcome throughput-resolution trade-offs in suspension cell imaging.
• To enable high-throughput, automated single-cell microscopy for diverse cell types and sizes without perturbing cell physiology.

Main Methods:

• Developed a microfluidics chip for temporary immobilization of suspension cells.
• Integrated electronic control circuitry and liquid-handling components for automated operation.
• Provided automation software for seamless integration with image acquisition.

Main Results:

• Achieved high-throughput and high-resolution single-cell microscopy for suspension cells.
• Enabled visualization and counting of low-abundance cytoplasmic fluorescent proteins in E. coli using TIRF microscopy.
• Demonstrated applications in assessing cell mechanical integrity, facilitating chemical uptake, and sorting rare cells.

Conclusions:

• MACS platform effectively overcomes limitations in suspension cell imaging, offering a versatile tool for biological research.
• The system supports advanced applications including protein quantification, mechanical stress testing, and cell sorting.
• MACS provides a robust and adaptable solution for automated, high-content single-cell analysis.