Multiplexed end-point microfluidic chemotaxis assay using centrifugal alignment.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Cell Biology
• Microfluidics

Background:

• Multiplexing microfluidic chemotaxis assays at scale is hindered by the need for continuous time-lapse imaging.
• Existing end-point assays require complex, precise fluid flow for cell alignment, limiting scalability and increasing setup time.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a simplified, scalable microfluidic device for multiplexed end-point chemotaxis assays.
• To eliminate the need for precise flow control and continuous imaging in cell migration studies.

Main Methods:

• Utilized centrifugation for rapid, precise cell alignment at a common starting point.
• Employed passive diffusion to establish chemoattractant gradients before incubation.
• Assessed primary neutrophil chemotaxis in response to fMLP gradients.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a microfluidic device that bypasses the need for continuous imaging and complex flow control.
• Showcased centrifugal alignment's robustness, being insensitive to cell geometry and suitable for heterogeneous primary cells.
• Successfully assessed primary neutrophil chemotaxis, validating the approach.

Conclusions:

• Centrifugal alignment offers a simple, scalable solution for end-point multiplexed microfluidic chemotaxis assays.
• This method facilitates high-throughput drug testing and screening by simplifying experimental setup and requirements.
• The approach is compatible with diverse cell types, including heterogeneous primary samples.