A Versatile, Low-Cost, Multiway Microfluidic Sorter for Droplets, Cells, and Embryos

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Microfluidics
• Cell Sorting

Background:

• Particle and cell sorting are crucial for various scientific and technological applications.
• Existing methods like Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting (FACS) and microfluidic FACS (μFACS) are effective but can be costly.
• There is a need for economical and flexible platforms for high-throughput particle and cell manipulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate a cost-effective microfluidic platform for sorting diverse particles, including droplets, cells, and embryos.
• To enable high-throughput and multi-phenotype sorting capabilities.
• To present an accessible alternative or complement to established cell sorting technologies.

Main Methods:

• A microfluidic system was constructed using readily available parts, with a total cost of approximately $6800 for a standalone unit.
• Microfluidic channels are controlled by valves actuated via a Braille display, allowing for precise sorting based on imaging data.
• The platform was engineered for high-throughput sorting (>2 Hz) and demonstrated novel 8-way sorting capabilities.

Main Results:

• The developed microfluidic platform successfully sorts droplets, cells, and embryos based on real-time imaging data.
• Sorting rates exceeding 2 Hz were achieved, demonstrating high throughput.
• The system demonstrated the first instance of microfluidic 8-way sorting, enabling simultaneous separation of objects with distinct characteristics.

Conclusions:

• The economical microfluidic platform offers a flexible and accessible solution for particle and cell sorting.
• The demonstrated 8-way sorting capability significantly expands possibilities for simultaneous separation of diverse biological entities.
• This technology serves as a valuable complement to existing FACS and μFACS, particularly in research settings prioritizing cost-effectiveness and adaptability.