Untethered Single Cell Grippers for Active Biopsy.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Microrobotics
• Cellular Analysis

Background:

• Single cell manipulation is crucial for biosensing, biorobotics, and quantitative cell analysis.
• Existing methods using microbeads, droplets, and microrobots face challenges in simultaneous, biocompatible single cell excision and capture.
• There is a need for advanced tools to overcome these limitations in cell manipulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop untethered single cell grippers capable of on-demand remote guidance and actuation.
• To enable the active capture or excision of individual or small groups of cells in a biocompatible manner.
• To advance tools for high-throughput single cell scale biopsy and lab-on-a-chip devices.

Main Methods:

• A novel molding method was used to micropattern a thermally responsive wax layer for biocompatible motion actuation.
• Multifingered grippers utilize residual differential stress in bilayer hinges (silicon oxides) for energy.
• A magnetic layer facilitates remote guidance through narrow conduits and fixed tissue sections ex vivo.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated untethered single cell grippers with remote guidance and actuation capabilities.
• Successfully achieved on-demand capture and excision of single cells using biocompatible mechanisms.
• Validated the use of magnetic guidance for navigating complex biological environments.

Conclusions:

• The developed single cell grippers represent a significant advancement in microrobotic tools for cell manipulation.
• These grippers offer a promising solution for high-throughput single cell biopsy, lab-on-a-chip applications, and minimally invasive surgery.
• The technology enables precise and biocompatible manipulation of cells, opening new avenues in biological research and medical procedures.