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MyDEP: A New Computational Tool for Dielectric Modeling of Particles and Cells
Jonathan Cottet1, Olivier Fabregue2, Charles Berger2
1Université Lyon, Ecole Centrale de Lyon, Université Claude Bernard Lyon 1, INSA Lyon, CNRS, Ampère, Ecully, France; École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, EPFL-STI-IMT-LMIS4, Station 17, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Biophysical Journal
|December 19, 2018
Summary
This study introduces MyDEP software to model dielectrophoresis (DEP) and electrorotation (ROT) behavior of biological particles. It aids in optimizing experimental parameters for cell manipulation and characterization using electrokinetic phenomena.
Area of Science:
- Biophysics
- Electrokinetics
- Lab-on-chip technology
Background:
- Dielectrophoresis (DEP) and electrorotation (ROT) are electrokinetic techniques used for manipulating biological particles in microfluidic devices.
- These techniques rely on the dielectric properties of particles and media, influenced by electric field frequency and conductivity.
- Accurate modeling is crucial for optimizing DEP and ROT experiments in cell separation, trapping, and characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce MyDEP, a novel software tool for simulating dielectrophoresis and electrorotation.
- To enable the study of how dielectric properties and experimental parameters affect DEP and ROT spectra.
- To facilitate the prediction of particle behavior for improved experimental design in electrokinetics.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of multi-shell particle models with adjustable dielectric properties within the MyDEP software.
- Simulation of DEP and ROT spectra across varying electric field frequencies and medium conductivities.
- Calculation of homogenized dielectric properties for multi-shell particles and provision of a cell property database.
Main Results:
- MyDEP allows for the analysis of DEP and ROT spectra variations based on key parameters like field frequency and medium conductivity.
- The software predicts crossover frequencies and enables visualization of their evolution with electric field frequency.
- Equivalent electrical conductivity and relative permittivity of cells, both isolated and in suspension, can be calculated.
Conclusions:
- MyDEP is a valuable tool for researchers studying electrokinetic phenomena, aiding in the selection of optimal experimental conditions.
- The software enhances the understanding of particle behavior in DEP and ROT, supporting applications in cell biology and microfluidics.
- MyDEP facilitates the design and optimization of lab-on-chip devices for biological particle manipulation and analysis.
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