Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 2, 2026
10:40
A Method of Targeted Cell Isolation via Glass Surface Functionalization
Published on: September 20, 2016
9.8K
Fluorescence enhanced BA-LIFT for single cell detection and isolation
A Marquez1, M Gómez-Fontela1,2, S Lauzurica1
1Centro Láser, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Madrid, España, Spain.
Biofabrication
|December 13, 2019
Summary
A novel blister-actuated laser-induced forward transfer (BA-LIFT) technique enables precise bioprinting of living cells with high viability. This method utilizes a polyimide tape and imaging system for accurate cell selection and transfer.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Laser-based cell manipulation
- Tissue engineering
Background:
- Laser bioprinting offers high precision for cell transfer.
- Standard laser-induced forward transfer (LIFT) requires indirect methods to protect cells from direct laser irradiation.
- An energy absorption layer is crucial for indirect LIFT techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and characterize a novel blister-actuated laser-induced forward transfer (BA-LIFT) technique for cell bioprinting.
- To integrate a vision system for enhanced cell selection and viability monitoring.
- To establish the printability map and assess cell viability in hydrogels using BA-LIFT.
Main Methods:
- Development of the blister-actuated laser-induced forward transfer (BA-LIFT) technique using a polyimide tape as an energy absorption layer.
- Implementation of a coaxial in-line fluorescence and conventional imaging vision system for cell tracking and identification.
- Studying the printability of sodium alginate and methylcellulose hydrogels across a range of laser fluences (6.1 to 2.0 J cm⁻²).
Main Results:
- The BA-LIFT technique successfully bioprinted cells with high precision and viability (98% at low fluences).
- Hydrogel concentration influences optimal laser fluence: less viscous hydrogels perform better at lower fluences, while more viscous ones require higher fluences.
- The integrated vision system enabled tracking of primary cells and cell lines, confirming their integrity, proliferation, and functional activity post-transfer.
Conclusions:
- The BA-LIFT technique, coupled with an imaging system, provides a precise and viable method for laser-based cell bioprinting.
- The technique demonstrates successful isolation and tracking of specific cell types, including mouse hematopoietic progenitor stem cells and natural killer cells.
- BA-LIFT offers a promising platform for applications in cell-based assays, regenerative medicine, and advanced tissue engineering.
