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Lehnert T, Gijs MAM. Microfluidic systems for infectious disease diagnostics. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:1441-1493. [PMID: 38372324 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc00117f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Microorganisms, encompassing both uni- and multicellular entities, exhibit remarkable diversity as omnipresent life forms in nature. They play a pivotal role by supplying essential components for sustaining biological processes across diverse ecosystems, including higher host organisms. The complex interactions within the human gut microbiota are crucial for metabolic functions, immune responses, and biochemical signalling, particularly through the gut-brain axis. Viruses also play important roles in biological processes, for example by increasing genetic diversity through horizontal gene transfer when replicating inside living cells. On the other hand, infection of the human body by microbiological agents may lead to severe physiological disorders and diseases. Infectious diseases pose a significant burden on global healthcare systems, characterized by substantial variations in the epidemiological landscape. Fast spreading antibiotic resistance or uncontrolled outbreaks of communicable diseases are major challenges at present. Furthermore, delivering field-proven point-of-care diagnostic tools to the most severely affected populations in low-resource settings is particularly important and challenging. New paradigms and technological approaches enabling rapid and informed disease management need to be implemented. In this respect, infectious disease diagnostics taking advantage of microfluidic systems combined with integrated biosensor-based pathogen detection offers a host of innovative and promising solutions. In this review, we aim to outline recent activities and progress in the development of microfluidic diagnostic tools. Our literature research mainly covers the last 5 years. We will follow a classification scheme based on the human body systems primarily involved at the clinical level or on specific pathogen transmission modes. Important diseases, such as tuberculosis and malaria, will be addressed more extensively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Lehnert
- Laboratory of Microsystems, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland.
| | - Martin A M Gijs
- Laboratory of Microsystems, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, CH-1015, Switzerland.
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2
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Nilghaz A, Lee SM, Su H, Yuan D, Tian J, Guijt RM, Wang X. Development of a pumpless acoustofluidic device for rapid food pathogen detection. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1275:341581. [PMID: 37524466 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/02/2023]
Abstract
Mixing, homogenization, separation, and filtration are crucial processes in miniaturized analytical systems employed for in-vitro biological, environmental, and food analysis. However, in microfluidic systems achieving homogenization becomes more challenging due to the laminar flow conditions, which lack the turbulent flows typically used for mixing in traditional analytical systems. Here, we introduce an acoustofluidic platform that leverages an acoustic transducer to generate microvortex streaming, enabling effective homogenizing of food samples. To reduce reliance on external equipment, tubing, and pump, which is desirable for Point-of-Need testing, our pumpless platform employs a hydrophilic yarn capable of continuous wicking for sample perfusion. Following the homogenization process, the platform incorporates an array of micropillars for filtering out large particles from the samples. Additionally, the porous structure of the yarn provides a secondary screening mechanism. The resulting system is compact, and reliable, and was successfully applied to the detection of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in two different types of berries using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The platform demonstrated a detection limit of 5 CFU g-1, showcasing its effectiveness in rapid and sensitive pathogen detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azadeh Nilghaz
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Vic, 3216, Australia; Drug Delivery, Disposition, And Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia.
| | - Soo Min Lee
- Australian Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Vic, 3216, Australia
| | - Hongli Su
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Vic, 3216, Australia
| | - Dan Yuan
- Drug Delivery, Disposition, And Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia; Australian Centre for Regional and Rural Futures, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Vic, 3216, Australia; School of Mechanical & Mining Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Junfei Tian
- State Key Laboratory of Pulp & Paper Engineering, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, 510640, China
| | - Rosanne M Guijt
- Drug Delivery, Disposition, And Dynamics, Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - Xungai Wang
- Institute for Frontier Materials, Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Vic, 3216, Australia; JC STEM Lab of Sustainable Fibers and Textiles, School of Fashion and Textiles, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hung Hom, Kowloon, 999077, Hong Kong.
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3
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Liu Y, Wen Z, Huang Z, Wang Y, Chen Z, Lai S, Chen S, Zhou Y. Liquid Phase Graphene Exfoliation with a Vibration-Based Acoustofluidic Effector. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1718. [PMID: 37763883 PMCID: PMC10534619 DOI: 10.3390/mi14091718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) has emerged as a promising method for the industrial-scale production of graphene. However, one of its critical steps, namely sonication, has faced challenges due to high power consumption and low efficiency, leading to limited applicability in industrial settings. This study introduces a novel, cost-effective microfluidic sonication device designed to significantly reduce power consumption while efficiently assisting the LPE process for graphene production. By coupling a capillary with a buzzer and applying an appropriate electric signal, simulation and particle tracing experiments reveal the generation of robust shear forces resulting from acoustic streaming and cavitation when the capillary end is immersed in the liquid. For the first time, the capillary-based sonication device was effectively utilized for graphene exfoliation in a DMF (N,N-Dimethylformamide) + NaOH liquid phase system. The SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) and Raman characterization results corroborate the successful exfoliation of 100 nm with thicknesses below 10 nm graphene sheets from graphite flakes using this pioneering device. The values of I2D/IG increase after processing, which suggests the exfoliation of graphite flakes into thinner graphene sheets. The vibration-based acoustofluidic effector represents a versatile and scalable miniature device, capable of being employed individually for small-batch production, thereby optimizing the utilization of raw 2D materials, particularly in experimental scenarios. Alternatively, it holds the potential for large-scale manufacturing through extensive parallelization, offering distinct advantages in terms of cost-efficiency and minimal power consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yinning Zhou
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Avenida da Universidade, Taipa, Macau 999078, China; (Y.L.); (Z.W.); (Z.H.); (Y.W.); (Z.C.); (S.L.); (S.C.)
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4
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Liu Y, Yin Q, Luo Y, Huang Z, Cheng Q, Zhang W, Zhou B, Zhou Y, Ma Z. Manipulation with sound and vibration: A review on the micromanipulation system based on sub-MHz acoustic waves. ULTRASONICS SONOCHEMISTRY 2023; 96:106441. [PMID: 37216791 PMCID: PMC10213378 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultsonch.2023.106441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 05/06/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Manipulation of micro-objects have been playing an essential role in biochemical analysis or clinical diagnostics. Among the diverse technologies for micromanipulation, acoustic methods show the advantages of good biocompatibility, wide tunability, a label-free and contactless manner. Thus, acoustic micromanipulations have been widely exploited in micro-analysis systems. In this article, we reviewed the acoustic micromanipulation systems that were actuated by sub-MHz acoustic waves. In contrast to the high-frequency range, the acoustic microsystems operating at sub-MHz acoustic frequency are more accessible, whose acoustic sources are at low cost and even available from daily acoustic devices (e.g. buzzers, speakers, piezoelectric plates). The broad availability, with the addition of the advantages of acoustic micromanipulation, make sub-MHz microsystems promising for a variety of biomedical applications. Here, we review recent progresses in sub-MHz acoustic micromanipulation technologies, focusing on their applications in biomedical fields. These technologies are based on the basic acoustic phenomenon, such as cavitation, acoustic radiation force, and acoustic streaming. And categorized by their applications, we introduce these systems for mixing, pumping and droplet generation, separation and enrichment, patterning, rotation, propulsion and actuation. The diverse applications of these systems hold great promise for a wide range of enhancements in biomedicines and attract increasing interest for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Liu
- Institute of Medical Robotics, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China; Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Qiu Yin
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical System and Vibration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yucheng Luo
- Institute of Medical Robotics, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Ziyu Huang
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Quansheng Cheng
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Wenming Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Mechanical System and Vibration, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Bingpu Zhou
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China
| | - Yinning Zhou
- Joint Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Applied Physics and Materials Engineering, University of Macau, Taipa, Macau 999078, China.
| | - Zhichao Ma
- Institute of Medical Robotics, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, No.800 Dongchuan Road, Shanghai 200240, China.
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Liu W, Lee LP. Toward Rapid and Accurate Molecular Diagnostics at Home. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2206525. [PMID: 36416278 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202206525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The global outbreaks of infectious diseases have significantly driven an imperative demand for rapid and accurate molecular diagnostics. Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs) feature high sensitivity and high specificity; however, the labor-intensive sample preparation and nucleic acid amplification steps remain challenging in order to carry out rapid and precision molecular diagnostics at home. This review discusses the advances and challenges of automatic solutions of sample preparation integrated with on-chip nucleic acid amplification for effective and accurate molecular diagnostics at home. The sample preparation methods of whole blood, urine, saliva/nasal swab, and stool on chip are examined. Then, the repurposable integrated sample preparation on a chip using various biological samples is investigated. Finally, the on-chip NAATs that can be integrated with automated sample preparation are evaluated. The user-friendly approaches with combined sample preparation and NAATs can be the game changers for next-generation rapid and precision home diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenpeng Liu
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Luke P Lee
- Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Division of Engineering in Medicine and Renal Division, Department of Medicine, Brigham Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
- Department of Bioengineering, Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of California at Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon, 16419, Republic of Korea
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6
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Lu Y, Tan W, Mu S, Zhu G. A multi-vortex micromixer based on the synergy of acoustics and inertia for nanoparticle synthesis. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1239:340742. [PMID: 36628735 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2022.340742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mixing is one of the most important steps in chemical reaction, sample preparation and emulsification. However, achieving complete mixing of fluids at high throughput is still a challenge for acoustic micromixers, which are limited by the intensity of the acoustic streaming. In this study, we proposed an acoustic-inertial micromixer based on multi-vortex synergy by introducing inertia into acoustic micromixer. The device contains side-wall sharp-edge structure and contraction-expansion array structure (SCEA) in the microchannel to enhance the acoustic streaming with inertial vortices. The mixing mechanism of SCEA was explored and the mixing process showed three modes: acoustic streaming dominant mode, acoustic-inertial synergy mode and inertial vortex dominant mode. On the basis of the "vortex seed" provided by the contraction-expansion structure, stronger chaotic advection was produced by the synergy of acoustic streaming and inertial vortices (including Dean vortex and horizontal vortex). Rapider mixing (0.20 m s) and wider operating ranges (0-3000 μL/min) were achieved in SCEA at lower driving voltages compared with conventional acoustic micromixers. Finally, more homogeneous and tunable chitosan nanoparticles and shellac nanoparticles were synthesized based on this device. The micromorphology, particle size distribution and drug loading properties of the products were measured and compared. This work provides a platform for control of mixing process in specific application environments with high operational flexibility, indicating potentially wider application of SCEA in multi-functional integration of lab-on-a-chip systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwen Lu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300354, China
| | - Wei Tan
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300354, China; Zhejiang Institute of Tianjin University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315201, China
| | - Shuoshuo Mu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300354, China
| | - Guorui Zhu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300354, China; Zhejiang Institute of Tianjin University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, 315201, China.
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7
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Sun L, Lehnert T, Gijs MAM, Li S. Polydimethylsiloxane microstructure-induced acoustic streaming for enhanced ultrasonic DNA fragmentation on a microfluidic chip. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:4224-4237. [PMID: 36178361 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00366j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Next-generation sequencing (NGS) is an essential technology for DNA identification in genomic research. DNA fragmentation is a critical step for NGS and doing this on-chip is of great interest for future integrated genomic solutions. Here we demonstrate fast acoustofluidic DNA fragmentation via ultrasound-actuated elastic polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microstructures that induce acoustic streaming and associated shear forces when placed in the field of an ultrasonic transducer. Indeed, acoustic streaming locally generates high tensile stresses that can mechanically stretch and break DNA molecule chains. The improvement in efficiency of the on-chip DNA fragmentation is due to the synergistic effect of these tensile stresses and ultrasonic cavitation phenomena. We tested these microstructure-induced effects in a DNA-containing microfluidic channel both experimentally and by simulation. The DNA fragmentation process was evaluated by measuring the change in the DNA fragment size over time. The chip works well with both long and short DNA chains; in particular, purified lambda (λ) DNA was cut from 48.5 kbp to 3 kbp in one minute with selected microstructures and further down to 300 bp within two and a half minutes. The fragment size of mouse genomic DNA was reduced from 1.4 kbp to 400 bp in one minute and then to 200 bp in two and a half minutes. The DNA fragmentation efficiency of the chip equipped with the PDMS microstructures was twice that of the chip without the microstructures. Exhaustive comparison shows that the on-chip fragmentation performance reaches the level of high-end professional standards. Recently, DNA fragmentation was shown to be enhanced using vibrating air microbubbles when the chip was placed in an acoustic field. We think the microbubble-free microstructure-based device we present is easier to operate and more reliable, as it avoids microbubble preparation and maintenance, while showing high DNA fragmentation performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Sun
- Department of Fluid Control and Automation, School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150000, P. R. China.
- Laboratory of Microsystems, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Switzerland.
| | - Thomas Lehnert
- Laboratory of Microsystems, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Switzerland.
| | - Martin A M Gijs
- Laboratory of Microsystems, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Switzerland.
| | - Songjing Li
- Department of Fluid Control and Automation, School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150000, P. R. China.
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8
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Sun L, Lehnert T, Li S, Gijs MAM. Bubble-enhanced ultrasonic microfluidic chip for rapid DNA fragmentation. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:560-572. [PMID: 34989733 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00933h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
DNA fragmentation is an essential process in developing genetic sequencing strategies, genetic research, as well as for the diagnosis of diseases with a genetic signature like cancer. Efficient on-chip DNA fragmentation protocols would be beneficial to process integration and open new opportunities for microfluidics in genetic applications. Here we present an acoustic microfluidic chip comprising an array of ultrasound-actuated microbubbles located at dedicated positions adjacent to a channel containing the DNA sample solution. The efficiency of the on-chip DNA fragmentation process arises mainly from tensile forces generated by acoustic streaming near the oscillating bubble interfaces, as well as a synergistic effect of streaming stress and ultrasonic cavitation. Acoustic microstreaming and the pressure distribution in the DNA channel were assessed by finite element simulation. We characterized the bubble-enhanced effect by measuring gene fragment size distributions with respect to different ultrasound parameters. For optimized on-chip conditions, purified lambda (λ) DNA (48.5 kbp) could be disrupted to fragments with an average size of 2 kbp after 30 s and down to 300 bp after 90 s. Mouse genomic DNA (1.4 kbp) fragmentation size decreased to 500 bp in 30 s and reduced further to 250 bp in 90 s. Bubble-induced fragmentation was more than 3 times faster than without bubbles. On-chip performance and process yield were found to be comparable to a sophisticated high-end commercial system. In this view, our new bubble-enhanced microfluidic approach is a promising tool for current and next generation sequencing platforms with high efficiency and good capacity. Moreover, the availability of an efficient on-chip DNA fragmentation process opens perspectives for implementing full molecular protocols on a single microfluidic platform.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Sun
- Laboratory of Microsystems, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Switzerland.
- Department of Fluid Control and Automation, School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150000, P. R. China
| | - Thomas Lehnert
- Laboratory of Microsystems, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Switzerland.
| | - Songjing Li
- Department of Fluid Control and Automation, School of Mechatronics Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin, Heilongjiang, 150000, P. R. China
| | - Martin A M Gijs
- Laboratory of Microsystems, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Switzerland.
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Ghorbani Kharaji Z, Kalantar V, Bayareh M. Acoustic sharp-edge-based micromixer: a numerical study. CHEMICAL PAPERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11696-021-01994-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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10
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Yang Y, Pang W, Zhang H, Cui W, Jin K, Sun C, Wang Y, Zhang L, Ren X, Duan X. Manipulation of single cells via a Stereo Acoustic Streaming Tunnel (SteAST). MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2022; 8:88. [PMID: 35935274 PMCID: PMC9352906 DOI: 10.1038/s41378-022-00424-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/29/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
At the single-cell level, cellular parameters, gene expression and cellular function are assayed on an individual but not population-average basis. Essential to observing and analyzing the heterogeneity and behavior of these cells/clusters is the ability to prepare and manipulate individuals. Here, we demonstrate a versatile microsystem, a stereo acoustic streaming tunnel, which is triggered by ultrahigh-frequency bulk acoustic waves and highly confined by a microchannel. We thoroughly analyze the generation and features of stereo acoustic streaming to develop a virtual tunnel for observation, pretreatment and analysis of cells for different single-cell applications. 3D reconstruction, dissociation of clusters, selective trapping/release, in situ analysis and pairing of single cells with barcode gel beads were demonstrated. To further verify the reliability and robustness of this technology in complex biosamples, the separation of circulating tumor cells from undiluted blood based on properties of both physics and immunity was achieved. With the rich selection of handling modes, the platform has the potential to be a full-process microsystem, from pretreatment to analysis, and used in numerous fields, such as in vitro diagnosis, high-throughput single-cell sequencing and drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Wei Pang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Hongxiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Weiwei Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Ke Jin
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Chongling Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Yanyan Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Xiubao Ren
- Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute & Hospital, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, 300072 China
| | - Xuexin Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology and Instruments, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300072 China
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Novotny J, Lenshof A, Laurell T. Acoustofluidic platforms for particle manipulation. Electrophoresis 2021; 43:804-818. [PMID: 34719049 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202100291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
There is an increasing interest in acoustics for microfluidic applications. This field, commonly known as acoustofluidics involves the interaction of ultrasonic standing waves with fluids and dispersed microparticles. The combination of microfluidics and the so-called acoustic standing waves (ASWs) led to the development of integrated systems for contact-less on-chip cell and particle manipulation where it is possible to move and spatially localize these particles based on the different acoustophysical properties. While it was initially suggested that the acoustic forces could be harmful to the cells and could impact cell viability, proliferation, or function via phenotypic or even genotypic changes, further studies disproved such claims. This review is summarizing some interesting applications of acoustofluidics in the manipulations of biomaterials, such as cells or subcellular vesicles, in works published mainly within the last 5 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Novotny
- Institute of Analytical Chemistry, Czech Academy of Sciences, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Andreas Lenshof
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Thomas Laurell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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12
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Hsiao SW, Chen YJ, Huang JT. Portable self-flowing platform for filtration separation of samples. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2021; 13:3605-3613. [PMID: 34308942 DOI: 10.1039/d1ay00716e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
A portable self-flow filtration and separation platform was designed using soft lithography to create a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microfluidic channel cover combined with a matching acrylic substrate. The separation zone was filled with microbeads of appropriate sizes to achieve universal filtration and separation. This simple structure requires only 20 μl of the sample for filtration separation. A vacuum of 760 torr is applied to the porous PDMS cover to drive the sample during testing. The average time required for a 20 μl sample of blood to pass through the separation zone is about 56 s, while the filling time for the detection zone of volume 6 μl is about 319 s. When the hematocrit of the blood sample is about 20-25%, the separation efficiency is 99.98%. Further, the separation efficiency of fat globules from raw milk is close to 100%, whereas almost all impurities are filtered out from juice and stool samples. It is also observed that E. coli in the stool can pass from the separation to detection zone at a maximum rate of about 81.21%, with an average of about 68.18%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu-Wei Hsiao
- Institute of Mechatronic Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, Taipei, Taiwan.
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13
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Ryan L, Wong Y, Dwyer KM, Clarke D, Kyprian L, Craig JM. Coprocytobiology: A Technical Review of Cytological Colorectal Cancer Screening in Fecal Samples. SLAS Technol 2021; 26:591-604. [PMID: 34219541 DOI: 10.1177/24726303211024562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam Ryan
- Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
| | - YenTing Wong
- Deakin University, Waurn Ponds, Victoria, Australia
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14
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Zhao S, Huang PH, Zhang H, Rich J, Bachman H, Ye J, Zhang W, Chen C, Xie Z, Tian Z, Kang P, Fu H, Huang TJ. Fabrication of tunable, high-molecular-weight polymeric nanoparticles via ultrafast acoustofluidic micromixing. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:2453-2463. [PMID: 33978043 PMCID: PMC8213440 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00265a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
High-molecular-weight polymeric nanoparticles are critical to increasing the loading efficacy and tuning the release profile of targeted molecules for medical diagnosis, imaging, and therapeutics. Although a number of microfluidic approaches have attained reproducible nanoparticle synthesis, it is still challenging to fabricate nanoparticles from high-molecular-weight polymers in a size and structure-controlled manner. In this work, an acoustofluidic platform is developed to synthesize size-tunable, high-molecular-weight (>45 kDa) poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-b-poly(ethylene glycol) (PLGA-PEG) nanoparticles without polymer aggregation by exploiting the characteristics of complete and ultrafast mixing. Moreover, the acoustofluidic approach achieves two features that have not been achieved by existing microfluidic approaches: (1) multi-step (≥2) sequential nanoprecipitation in a single device, and (2) synthesis of core-shell structured PLGA-PEG/lipid nanoparticles with high molecular weights. The developed platform expands microfluidic potential in nanomaterial synthesis, where high-molecular-weight polymers, multiple reagents, or sequential nanoprecipitations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaiguo Zhao
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Po-Hsun Huang
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Heying Zhang
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Joseph Rich
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA
| | - Hunter Bachman
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Jennifer Ye
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Wenfen Zhang
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Chuyi Chen
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Zhemiao Xie
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Zhenhua Tian
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Putong Kang
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Hai Fu
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Thomas Lord Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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15
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Li Y, Liu X, Huang Q, Ohta AT, Arai T. Bubbles in microfluidics: an all-purpose tool for micromanipulation. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:1016-1035. [PMID: 33538756 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc01173h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, the integration of microfluidic devices and multiple actuation technologies at the microscale has greatly contributed to the progress of related fields. In particular, microbubbles are playing an increasingly important role in microfluidics because of their unique characteristics that lead to specific responses to different energy sources and gas-liquid interactions. Many effective and functional bubble-based micromanipulation strategies have been developed and improved, enabling various non-invasive, selective, and precise operations at the microscale. This review begins with a brief introduction of the morphological characteristics and formation of microbubbles. The theoretical foundations and working mechanisms of typical micromanipulations based on acoustic, thermodynamic, and chemical microbubbles in fluids are described. We critically review the extensive applications and the frontline advances of bubbles in microfluidics, including microflow patterns, position and orientation control, biomedical applications, and development of bubble-based microrobots. We lastly present an outlook to provide directions for the design and application of microbubble-based micromanipulation tools and attract the attention of relevant researchers to the enormous potential of microbubbles in microfluidics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuyang Li
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems, Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Intelligent Control and Decision of Complex System, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing 100081, China.
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16
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Wimbles R, Melling LM, Cain B, Davies N, Doherty J, Johnson B, Shaw KJ. On-site genetic analysis for species identification using lab-on-a-chip. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:1535-1543. [PMID: 33613987 PMCID: PMC7882957 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper presents a microfluidic device capable of performing genetic analysis on dung samples to identify White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum). The development of a microfluidic device, which can be used in the field, offers a portable and cost-effective solution for DNA analysis and species identification to aid conservation efforts. Optimization of the DNA extraction processes produced equivalent yields compared to conventional kit-based methods within just 5 minutes. The use of a color-changing loop-mediated isothermal amplification reaction for simultaneous detection of the cytochrome B sequence of C. simum enabled positive results to be obtained within as little as 30 minutes. Field testing was performed at Knowsley Safari to demonstrate real-world applicability of the microfluidic device for testing of biological samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan Wimbles
- Department of Natural SciencesManchester Metropolitan UniversityManchesterUK
| | - Louise M. Melling
- Department of Natural SciencesManchester Metropolitan UniversityManchesterUK
| | - Bradley Cain
- Department of Natural SciencesManchester Metropolitan UniversityManchesterUK
| | | | | | | | - Kirsty J. Shaw
- Department of Natural SciencesManchester Metropolitan UniversityManchesterUK
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17
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Mohanty S, Khalil ISM, Misra S. Contactless acoustic micro/nano manipulation: a paradigm for next generation applications in life sciences. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2020; 476:20200621. [PMID: 33363443 PMCID: PMC7735305 DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2020.0621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Acoustic actuation techniques offer a promising tool for contactless manipulation of both synthetic and biological micro/nano agents that encompass different length scales. The traditional usage of sound waves has steadily progressed from mid-air manipulation of salt grains to sophisticated techniques that employ nanoparticle flow in microfluidic networks. State-of-the-art in microfabrication and instrumentation have further expanded the outreach of these actuation techniques to autonomous propulsion of micro-agents. In this review article, we provide a universal perspective of the known acoustic micromanipulation technologies in terms of their applications and governing physics. Hereby, we survey these technologies and classify them with regards to passive and active manipulation of agents. These manipulation methods account for both intelligent devices adept at dexterous non-contact handling of micro-agents, and acoustically induced mechanisms for self-propulsion of micro-robots. Moreover, owing to the clinical compliance of ultrasound, we provide future considerations of acoustic manipulation techniques to be fruitfully employed in biological applications that range from label-free drug testing to minimally invasive clinical interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumit Mohanty
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Islam S. M. Khalil
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
| | - Sarthak Misra
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, 7522 NB Enschede, The Netherlands
- Surgical Robotics Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Medical Center Groningen, 9713 AV Groningen, The Netherlands
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18
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Tan HY, Toh YC. What can microfluidics do for human microbiome research? BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2020; 14:051303. [PMID: 33062112 PMCID: PMC7538166 DOI: 10.1063/5.0012185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 09/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Dysregulation of the human microbiome has been linked to various disease states, which has galvanized the efforts to modulate human health through microbiomes. Currently, human microbiome research is going through several phases to identify the constituent components of the microbiome, associate microbiome changes with physiological and pathological states, understand causative relationships, and finally translate this knowledge into therapeutics and diagnostics. The convergence of microfluidic technologies with molecular and cell profiling, microbiology, and tissue engineering can potentially be applied to these different phases of microbiome research to overcome the existing challenges faced by conventional approaches. The goal of this paper is to discuss and highlight the opportunities of applying different microfluidic technologies to specific areas of microbiome research as well as unique challenges that microfluidics must overcome when working with microbiome-relevant biological materials, e.g., micro-organisms, host tissues, and fluids. We will discuss the applicability of integrated microfluidic systems for processing biological samples for genomic sequencing analyses. For functional analysis of the microbiota, we will cover state-of-the-art microfluidic devices for microbiota cultivation and functional measurements. Finally, we highlight the use of organs-on-chips to model various microbiome-host tissue interactions. We envision that microfluidic technologies may hold great promise in advancing the knowledge on the interplay between microbiome and human health, as well as its eventual translation into microbiome-based diagnostics and therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsih-Yin Tan
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117599
| | - Yi-Chin Toh
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:
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19
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Zhang P, Bachman H, Ozcelik A, Huang TJ. Acoustic Microfluidics. ANNUAL REVIEW OF ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY (PALO ALTO, CALIF.) 2020; 13:17-43. [PMID: 32531185 PMCID: PMC7415005 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-anchem-090919-102205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Acoustic microfluidic devices are powerful tools that use sound waves to manipulate micro- or nanoscale objects or fluids in analytical chemistry and biomedicine. Their simple device designs, biocompatible and contactless operation, and label-free nature are all characteristics that make acoustic microfluidic devices ideal platforms for fundamental research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Herein, we summarize the physical principles underlying acoustic microfluidics and review their applications, with particular emphasis on the manipulation of macromolecules, cells, particles, model organisms, and fluidic flows. We also present future goals of this technology in analytical chemistry and biomedical research, as well as challenges and opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiran Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA;
| | - Hunter Bachman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA;
| | - Adem Ozcelik
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Aydın Adnan Menderes University, Aydın 09010, Turkey;
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, USA;
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20
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Zhao S, Wu M, Yang S, Wu Y, Gu Y, Chen C, Ye J, Xie Z, Tian Z, Bachman H, Huang PH, Xia J, Zhang P, Zhang H, Huang TJ. A disposable acoustofluidic chip for nano/microparticle separation using unidirectional acoustic transducers. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:1298-1308. [PMID: 32195522 PMCID: PMC7199844 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00106f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Separation of nano/microparticles based on surface acoustic waves (SAWs) has shown great promise for biological, chemical, and medical applications ranging from sample purification to cancer diagnosis. However, the permanent bonding of a microchannel onto relatively expensive piezoelectric substrates and excitation transducers renders the SAW separation devices non-disposable. This limitation not only requires cumbersome cleaning and increased labor and material costs, but also leads to cross-contamination, preventing their implementation in many biological, chemical, and medical applications. Here, we demonstrate a high-performance, disposable acoustofluidic platform for nano/microparticle separation. Leveraging unidirectional interdigital transducers (IDTs), a hybrid channel design with hard/soft materials, and tilted-angle standing SAWs (taSSAWs), our disposable acoustofluidic devices achieve acoustic radiation forces comparable to those generated by existing permanently bonded, non-disposable devices. Our disposable devices can separate not only microparticles but also nanoparticles. Moreover, they can differentiate bacteria from human red blood cells (RBCs) with a purity of up to 96%. Altogether, we developed a unidirectional IDT-based, disposable acoustofluidic platform for micro/nanoparticle separation that can achieve high separation efficiency, versatility, and biocompatibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuaiguo Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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21
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Bachman H, Chen C, Rufo J, Zhao S, Yang S, Tian Z, Nama N, Huang PH, Huang TJ. An acoustofluidic device for efficient mixing over a wide range of flow rates. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:1238-1248. [PMID: 32104816 PMCID: PMC7252412 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc01171d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Whether reagents and samples need to be combined to achieve a desired reaction, or precise concentrations of solutions need to be mixed and delivered downstream, thorough mixing remains a critical step in many microfluidics-based biological and chemical assays and analyses. To achieve complete mixing of fluids in microfluidic devices, researchers have utilized novel channel designs or active intervention to facilitate mass transport and exchange of fluids. However, many of these solutions have a major limitation: their design inherently limits their operational throughput; that is, different designs work at specific flow rates, whether that be low or high ranges, but have difficulties outside of their tailored design regimes. In this work, we present an acoustofluidic mixer that is capable of achieving efficient, thorough mixing across a broad range of flow rates (20-2000 μL min-1) using a single device. Our mixer combines active acoustofluidic mixing, which is responsible for mixing fluids at lower flow rates, with passive hydrodynamic mixing, which accounts for mixing fluids at higher flow rates. The mechanism, functionality, and performance of our acoustofluidic device are both numerically and experimentally validated. Additionally, the real-world potential of our device is demonstrated by synthesizing polymeric nanoparticles with comparable sizes over a two-order-of-magnitude wide range of flow rates. This device can be valuable in many biochemical, biological, and biomedical applications. For example, using our platform, one may synthesize nanoparticles/nanomaterials at lower flow rates to first identify optimal synthesis conditions without having to waste significant amounts of reagents, and then increase the flow rate to perform high-throughput synthesis using the optimal conditions, all using the same single device and maintaining performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hunter Bachman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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22
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Zhang L, Tian Z, Bachman H, Zhang P, Huang TJ. A Cell-Phone-Based Acoustofluidic Platform for Quantitative Point-of-Care Testing. ACS NANO 2020; 14:3159-3169. [PMID: 32119517 PMCID: PMC7335639 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.9b08349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Acoustofluidic methods, with advantages including simplicity of device design, biocompatible manipulation, and low power consumption, have been touted as promising tools for point-of-care (POC) testing. Here, we report a cell-phone-based acoustofluidic platform that uses acoustic radiation forces to enrich nanoscale analytes and red and green fluorescence nanoparticles (SiO2@R and G@SiO2) as probes for POC visual testing. Thus, the color signals from the fluorescent probes are enhanced, and colorimetric sensitivity is significantly improved. As a POC demonstration, the acoustofluidic platform is used to detect hemoglobin (Hb) from human blood, resulting in a rapid and straightforward measurement of normal blood Hb levels. Combining an acoustofluidic-based nanoparticle-concentration platform with cell-phone-based colorimetry, our method introduces a potential pathway toward practical POC testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211166, China
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Zhenhua Tian
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, Mississippi 39762, United States
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Hunter Bachman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Peiran Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina 27708, United States
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23
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Kang P, Tian Z, Yang S, Yu W, Zhu H, Bachman H, Zhao S, Zhang P, Wang Z, Zhong R, Huang TJ. Acoustic tweezers based on circular, slanted-finger interdigital transducers for dynamic manipulation of micro-objects. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:987-994. [PMID: 32010910 PMCID: PMC7182351 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc01124b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Acoustic tweezing technologies are gaining significant attention from the scientific communities due to their versatility and biocompatibility. This study presents acoustic tweezers based on circular, slanted-finger interdigital transducers (CSFITs), which can steer the propagation direction of surface acoustic waves (SAWs) by tuning the excitation frequency. The CSFITs based acoustic tweezers enable dynamic and reconfigurable manipulation of micro-objects using multi-tone excitation signals. Compared to traditional interdigital transducers that generate and control SAWs along one axis, the CSFITs allow for simultaneously generating and independently controlling SAWs propagating along multiple axes by changing the frequency composition and the phase information in a multi-tone excitation signal. Moreover, the CSFITs based acoustic tweezers can be used for patterning cells/particles in various distributions and translating them along complex paths. We believe that our design is valuable for cellular-scale biological applications, in which on-chip, contactless, biocompatible handling of bioparticles is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Putong Kang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Zhenhua Tian
- Department of Aerospace Engineering, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39762, USA
| | - Shujie Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Wenzhuo Yu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Haodong Zhu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Hunter Bachman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Shuaiguo Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Peiran Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Zeyu Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Ruoyu Zhong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
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24
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Salari A, Appak-Baskoy S, Ezzo M, Hinz B, Kolios MC, Tsai SSH. Dancing with the Cells: Acoustic Microflows Generated by Oscillating Cells. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2020; 16:e1903788. [PMID: 31829522 DOI: 10.1002/smll.201903788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The interaction of a sound or ultrasound wave with an elastic object, such as a microbubble, can give rise to a steady-state microstreaming flow in its surrounding liquid. Many microfluidic strategies for cell and particle manipulation, and analyte mixing, are based on this type of flow. In addition, there are reports that acoustic streaming can be generated in biological systems, for instance, in a mammalian inner ear. Here, new observations are reported that individual cells are able to induce microstreaming flow, when they are excited by controlled acoustic waves in vitro. Single adherent cells are exposed to an acoustic field inside a microfluidic device. The cell-induced microstreaming is then investigated by monitoring flow tracers around the cell, while the structure and extracellular environment of the cell are altered using different chemicals. The observations suggest that the maximum streaming flow induced by an MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell can reach velocities on the order of mm s-1 , and this maximum velocity is primarily governed by the overall cell stiffness. Therefore, such cell-induced microstreaming measurements, including flow pattern and velocity magnitude, may be used as label-free proxies of cellular mechanical properties, such as stiffness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alinaghi Salari
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada
- Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Sila Appak-Baskoy
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada
- Department of Chemistry and Biology, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Maya Ezzo
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1G6, Canada
| | - Boris Hinz
- Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1G6, Canada
- Faculty of Dentistry, Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (IBBME), University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5G 1G6, Canada
| | - Michael C Kolios
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada
- Department of Physics, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
| | - Scott S H Tsai
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, Science and Technology (iBEST), Toronto, ON, M5B 1T8, Canada
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Ryerson University, Toronto, ON, M5B 2K3, Canada
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25
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An Le NH, Deng H, Devendran C, Akhtar N, Ma X, Pouton C, Chan HK, Neild A, Alan T. Ultrafast star-shaped acoustic micromixer for high throughput nanoparticle synthesis. LAB ON A CHIP 2020; 20:582-591. [PMID: 31898701 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc01174a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
We present an acoustically actuated microfluidic mixer, which can operate at flowrates reaching 8 ml min-1, providing a 50-fold improvement in throughput compared to previously demonstrated acoustofluidic approaches. The device consists of a robust silicon based micro-mechanical oscillator, sandwiched between two polymeric channels which guide the fluids in and out of the system. The chip is actuated by application of an oscillatory electrical signal onto a piezoelectric disk coupled to the substrate by adhesive. At the optimal frequency, this acoustofluidic system can homogenise two fluids with a relative mixing efficiency of 91%, within 4.1 ms from first contact. The micromixer has been used to synthesize two different systems: Budesonide nanodrugs with an average diameter of 80 ± 22 nm, and DNA nanoparticles with an average diameter of 63.3 ± 24.7 nm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nguyen Hoai An Le
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Laboratory for Microsystems, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Hao Deng
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Laboratory for Microsystems, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Citsabehsan Devendran
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Laboratory for Microsystems, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Nabila Akhtar
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Xiaoman Ma
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Laboratory for Microsystems, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Colin Pouton
- Monash Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Hak-Kim Chan
- The Advanced Drug Delivery Group, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Adrian Neild
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Laboratory for Microsystems, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
| | - Tuncay Alan
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Laboratory for Microsystems, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.
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26
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Huang P, Zhao S, Bachman H, Nama N, Li Z, Chen C, Yang S, Wu M, Zhang SP, Huang TJ. Acoustofluidic Synthesis of Particulate Nanomaterials. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2019; 6:1900913. [PMID: 31592417 PMCID: PMC6774021 DOI: 10.1002/advs.201900913] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2019] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Synthesis of nanoparticles and particulate nanomaterials with tailored properties is a central step toward many applications ranging from energy conversion and imaging/display to biosensing and nanomedicine. While existing microfluidics-based synthesis methods offer precise control over the synthesis process, most of them rely on passive, partial mixing of reagents, which limits their applicability and potentially, adversely alter the properties of synthesized products. Here, an acoustofluidic (i.e., the fusion of acoustic and microfluidics) synthesis platform is reported to synthesize nanoparticles and nanomaterials in a controllable, reproducible manner through acoustic-streaming-based active mixing of reagents. The acoustofluidic strategy allows for the dynamic control of the reaction conditions simply by adjusting the strength of the acoustic streaming. With this platform, the synthesis of versatile nanoparticles/nanomaterials is demonstrated including the synthesis of polymeric nanoparticles, chitosan nanoparticles, organic-inorganic hybrid nanomaterials, metal-organic framework biocomposites, and lipid-DNA complexes. The acoustofluidic synthesis platform, when incorporated with varying flow rates, compositions, or concentrations of reagents, will lend itself unprecedented flexibility in establishing various reaction conditions and thus enable the synthesis of versatile nanoparticles and nanomaterials with prescribed properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Po‐Hsun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials ScienceDuke UniversityDurhamNC27708USA
| | - Shuaiguo Zhao
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials ScienceDuke UniversityDurhamNC27708USA
| | - Hunter Bachman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials ScienceDuke UniversityDurhamNC27708USA
| | - Nitesh Nama
- Department of Engineering Science and MechanicsPennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPA16802USA
| | - Zhishang Li
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials ScienceDuke UniversityDurhamNC27708USA
| | - Chuyi Chen
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials ScienceDuke UniversityDurhamNC27708USA
| | - Shujie Yang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials ScienceDuke UniversityDurhamNC27708USA
| | - Mengxi Wu
- Department of Engineering Science and MechanicsPennsylvania State UniversityUniversity ParkPA16802USA
| | - Steven Peiran Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials ScienceDuke UniversityDurhamNC27708USA
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials ScienceDuke UniversityDurhamNC27708USA
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27
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Lin Y, Gao Y, Wu M, Zhou R, Chung D, Caraveo G, Xu J. Acoustofluidic stick-and-play micropump built on foil for single-cell trapping. LAB ON A CHIP 2019; 19:3045-3053. [PMID: 31406970 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc00484j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
The majority of microfluidic devices nowadays are built on rigid or bulky substrates such as glass slides and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) slabs, and heavily rely on external equipment such as syringe pumps. Although a variety of micropumps have been developed in the past, few of them are suitable for flexible microfluidics or lab-on-a-foil systems. In this paper, stick-and-play acoustic micropump is built on thin and flexible plastic film by printing microstructures termed defended oscillating membrane equipped structures (DOMES) using two-photon polymerization. Specifically, this new micropump induces rectified flow upon the actuation of acoustic waves, and the flow patterns agree with simulation results very well. More importantly, the developed micropump has the capabilities to generate adjustable flow rates as high as 420 nL min-1, and does not suffer from problems such as bubble instability, gas dissolution, and undesired bubble-trapping that commonly occur in other forms of acoustic micropumps. Since the micropump works in stick-and-play mode, it is reusable after cleaning thanks to the easy separation of covers and substrates. Lastly, the developed micropump is applied for creating a self-pumped single-cell trapping device. The excellent trapping capability of the integrated device proves its potential for long-term studies of biological behaviors of individual cells for biomedical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Lin
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, USA.
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28
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He W, Huang L, Feng Y, Liang F, Ding W, Wang W. Highly integrated microfluidic device for cell pairing, fusion and culture. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2019; 13:054109. [PMID: 31893009 PMCID: PMC6932852 DOI: 10.1063/1.5124705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 09/30/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we proposed a microfluidic device with compact structures integrating multiple modalities for cell capture, pairing, fusion, and culture. The microfluidic device is composed of upper and lower parts. The lower part configured with electrodes and capture wells is used for cell trapping/pairing/fusion, while the upper part configured with corresponding culture wells is used for cell culture. Dielectrophoresis is used to enable accurate cell trapping and pairing in capture wells. Moreover, the paired cells are fused flexibly by either electrical pulses or polyethylene glycol (PEG) buffer. The fused cells are then transferred to culture wells for on-chip culture simply by flipping the device. Using the device and HeLa cells, we demonstrated pairing efficiency of ∼78% and fusion efficiencies of ∼ 26% for electrical fusion or ∼ 21% for PEG fusion, and successful cell proliferation and migration after 72 h on-chip culture. We believe that this multifunction-integrated but structure-simplified microfluidic device would largely facilitate cell fusion oriented tasks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weihua He
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instrument, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liang Huang
- School of Instrument Science and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Yongxiang Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instrument, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Fei Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instrument, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Wei Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instrument, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Wenhui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instrument, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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Cui W, Mu L, Duan X, Pang W, Reed MA. Trapping of sub-100 nm nanoparticles using gigahertz acoustofluidic tweezers for biosensing applications. NANOSCALE 2019; 11:14625-14634. [PMID: 31240289 DOI: 10.1039/c9nr03529j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
In this study, we present a nanoscale acoustofluidic trap (AFT) that manipulates nanoparticles in a microfluidic system actuated by a gigahertz acoustic resonator. The AFT generates independent standing closed vortices with high-speed rotation. Via careful design and optimization of geometric confinements, the AFT was able to effectively capture and enrich sub-100 nm nanoparticles with a low power consumption (0.25-5 μW μm-2) and rapid trapping (within 30 s), showing significantly enhanced particle-operating ability as compared to its acoustic and optical counterparts; using specifically functionalized nanoparticles (SFNPs) to selectively capture target molecules from the sample, the AFT led to the molecular concentration enhancement of ∼200 times. We investigated the feasibility of the SFNP-assisted AFT preconcentration method for biosensing applications and successfully demonstrated the capability of this method for the detection of serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA). The AFT was prepared via a fully CMOS-compatible process and thus could be conveniently integrated on a single chip, with potential for "lab-on-a-chip" or point-of-care (POC) nanoparticle-based biosensing applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weiwei Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measuring Technology & Instruments, College of Precision Instrument and Optoelectronics Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China.
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Abstract
Cellular analysis is a central concept for both biology and medicine. Over the past two decades, acoustofluidic technologies, which marry acoustic waves with microfluidics, have significantly contributed to the development of innovative approaches for cellular analysis. Acoustofluidic technologies enable precise manipulations of cells and the fluids that confine them, and these capabilities have been utilized in many cell analysis applications. In this review article, we examine various applications where acoustofluidic methods have been implemented, including cell imaging, cell mechanotyping, circulating tumor cell phenotyping, sample preparation in clinics, and investigation of cell-cell interactions and cell-environment responses. We also provide our perspectives on the technological advantages, limitations, and potential future directions for this innovative field of methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuliang Xie
- Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Hunter Bachman
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
| | - Tony Jun Huang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering and Material Science, Duke University, Durham, NC 27707, USA
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