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Automated Addressable Microfluidic Device for Minimally Disruptive Manipulation of Cells and Fluids within Living
Anh Tong1, Quang Long Pham1,2, Vatsal Shah3,4
1Otto H. York Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark College of Engineering, 161 Warren Street, Newark, New Jersey 07102, United States.
ACS Biomaterials Science & Engineering
|January 18, 2021
Summary
This study introduces an "addressable" microfluidic device for precise cell culturing. The technology enables non-disruptive cell manipulation, fluid sampling, and automated long-term experiments, advancing biological research and biomanufacturing.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Microfluidics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Cell culturing is vital for biology, medicine, and biomanufacturing.
- Current methods face technological barriers, including disruptive monitoring and high costs.
- Nondisruptive control and monitoring of cells in culture remain a significant challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a prototype "addressable" microfluidic technology for advanced cell culturing.
- To overcome limitations in spatiotemporal fluid and cell manipulation within living cultures.
- To enable automated, long-term, computer-driven cell culture experiments.
Main Methods:
- Developed a microfluidic device for precise spatial control of cells and fluids.
- Demonstrated additive manufacturing (spatial cell seeding, co-culturing) and subtractive manufacturing (trypsin-based cell removal).
- Integrated automated on-chip plumbing for fluid sampling and cell biopsies.
Main Results:
- Successfully seeded cells in defined spatial patterns, including co-cultures.
- Showcased targeted removal of surface adherent cells using focused trypsin flow.
- Validated the ability to perform localized fluid sampling and cell biopsies for ex situ analysis.
- Achieved automated, computer-driven experimental control for long-term cell culture monitoring.
Conclusions:
- The prototype microfluidic technology offers precise, non-disruptive control over cell cultures.
- This platform has the potential to reduce experimental costs and improve product consistency.
- Future work will focus on 3D integration and development of biodegradable materials for enhanced biocompatibility and tissue engineering applications.
