Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 29, 2026
08:30
Microinjectrode System for Combined Drug Infusion and Electrophysiology
Published on: November 13, 2019
A portable, ultra-low cost, open-source, pedal-controlled microinjector for laboratory use
Victor H Dominguez1,2,3, Maxwell Frankfurter4,5, Kevin B Hayes4,6
1Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, United States of America.
Plos One
|May 27, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed an affordable, open-source microinjector for precise in vivo gene delivery. This footswitch-actuated device simplifies nano- or microliter injections, making advanced techniques like genome editing more accessible.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Neuroscience
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- In vivo delivery of genetic material (virus, DNA/RNA) requires precise sub-microliter injections.
- Manual injection is faster than mechanical methods but technically demanding.
- Existing methods present technical and financial barriers to widespread adoption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present an all open-source, footswitch-actuated microinjector for nano- or microliter volumes.
- To reduce technical and financial barriers for in vivo gene delivery techniques.
- To facilitate broader adoption of in vivo electroporation and genome editing.
Main Methods:
- Assembly of a simple, low-cost microinjector using ordinary tools in under 2 hours.
- Device features include footswitch actuation, pressure control, and aspirate/discharge modes.
- Pulse-triggered discharges for nanoliter volume delivery.
Main Results:
- The microinjector is self-contained, pressure controllable, and facilitates multiple injections.
- Reliable nanoliter volume delivery with approximately 15% dispense error.
- Low cost (<$130 USD) and simple assembly without custom fabrication.
Conclusions:
- The developed microinjector significantly lowers barriers to entry for in vivo genetic material delivery.
- This open-source device can promote wider use of in vivo electroporation and genome editing.
- The microinjector offers a practical, cost-effective solution for precise nano- and microliter injections.
