Intelligent acoustofluidics enabled mini-bioreactors for human brain organoids

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Microfluidics
• Acoustics

Background:

• Acoustofluidics combines acoustics and microfluidics for cell and liquid manipulation.
• Current acoustofluidic systems face challenges in standardization and performance due to device variation, manual operation, and environmental factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop an automated "intelligent acoustofluidics" system to overcome limitations in current acoustofluidic devices.
• To create intelligent acoustofluidics-based mini-bioreactors for enhanced human brain organoid culture.

Main Methods:

• Developed an automated system integrating acoustofluidic device design, sensor fusion, and intelligent controller.
• Utilized acoustic spiral phase vortex for contact-free rotor rotation.
• Implemented a reinforcement learning-based controller with real-time camera tracking for closed-loop regulation.

Main Results:

• Achieved automated rotation of rotors in well-plates, demonstrating superior automation, robustness, and accuracy.
• Maintained stable rotational speed for organoids during long-term culture, regardless of environmental fluctuations.
• Enhanced neural differentiation and uniformity of brain organoids.

Conclusions:

• Intelligent acoustofluidics offers a robust and accurate solution for microfluidic experimentation.
• The developed mini-bioreactors show significant potential for improving organoid culture and other biomedical applications.
• This approach highlights the future of intelligent systems in advancing microfluidic technologies.