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Chen S, Zhang S, Zhu R. Biophysical phenotyping of single-cell based on impedance and application for individualized precision medicine. Biosens Bioelectron 2024; 259:116410. [PMID: 38781697 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2024.116410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Single-cell biophysical characterization based on impedance measurement is an advantageous approach due to its label-free, high-efficiency, cost-effective and real-time capability. Biophysical phenotyping can yield timely and rich information on physiological and pathological state of cells for disease diagnosis, drug screening, precision medicine, etc. However, precise measurement on single-cell impedance is challenging, particularly hard to figure out the detailed biophysical parameters of single cell due to coupling and complexity of impedance model. Here, we propose an analytic determination method to decode single-cell electrophysiological parameters (including cell-substrate interface capacitance, cell membrane capacitance, cell membrane conductivity, and cytoplasm conductivity) from the impedances measured at optimized frequencies by using analytic solution rather than spectrum fitting. With this simple and fast analytic solution method, the physiological parameters of single cell in natural adhesion state can be accurately determined in real time. We validate this cell parameter determination method in monitoring the change of cell adhesion under hydraulic effects and exploring electrophysiological differences among MCF-7, HeLa, Huh7, and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Particularly, we apply the approach to optimize tumor treating fields (TTFields) therapy, realizing individualized precision medicine. Our work provides an accurate and efficient approach for characterizing single-cell biophysical properties with real-time, in-situ, label-free, and less invasive advantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shengjie Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Shengsen Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Rong Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China.
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2
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Li SS, Xue CD, Li YJ, Chen XM, Zhao Y, Qin KR. Microfluidic characterization of single-cell biophysical properties and the applications in cancer diagnosis. Electrophoresis 2024; 45:1212-1232. [PMID: 37909658 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Single-cell biophysical properties play a crucial role in regulating cellular physiological states and functions, demonstrating significant potential in the fields of life sciences and clinical diagnostics. Therefore, over the last few decades, researchers have developed various detection tools to explore the relationship between the biophysical changes of biological cells and human diseases. With the rapid advancement of modern microfabrication technology, microfluidic devices have quickly emerged as a promising platform for single-cell analysis offering advantages including high-throughput, exceptional precision, and ease of manipulation. Consequently, this paper provides an overview of the recent advances in microfluidic analysis and detection systems for single-cell biophysical properties and their applications in the field of cancer. The working principles and latest research progress of single-cell biophysical property detection are first analyzed, highlighting the significance of electrical and mechanical properties. The development of data acquisition and processing methods for real-time, high-throughput, and practical applications are then discussed. Furthermore, the differences in biophysical properties between tumor and normal cells are outlined, illustrating the potential for utilizing single-cell biophysical properties for tumor cell identification, classification, and drug response assessment. Lastly, we summarize the limitations of existing microfluidic analysis and detection systems in single-cell biophysical properties, while also pointing out the prospects and future directions of their applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Shan Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Chun-Dong Xue
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Yong-Jiang Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Ming Chen
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering and Instrumentation Science, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Stomach Surgery, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Kai-Rong Qin
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
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3
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Cheng Y, Pang SW. Biointerfaces with ultrathin patterns for directional control of cell migration. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:158. [PMID: 38589901 PMCID: PMC11000378 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02418-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
In the context of wound healing and tissue regeneration, precise control of cell migration direction is deemed crucial. To address this challenge, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) platforms with patterned 10 nm thick TiOx in arrowhead shape were designed and fabricated. Remarkably, without tall sidewall constraints, MC3T3-E1 cells seeded on these platforms were constrained to migrate along the tips of the arrowheads, as the cells were guided by the asymmetrical arrowhead tips which provided large contact areas. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating the use of thin TiOx arrowhead pattern in combination with a cell-repellent PDMS surface to provide guided cell migration unidirectionally without tall sidewall constraints. Additionally, high-resolution fluorescence imaging revealed that the asymmetrical distribution of focal adhesions, triggered by the patterned TiOx arrowheads with arm lengths of 10, 20, and 35 μm, promoted cell adhesion and protrusion along the arrowhead tip direction, resulting in unidirectional cell migration. These findings have important implications for the design of biointerfaces with ultrathin patterns to precisely control cell migration. Furthermore, microelectrodes were integrated with the patterned TiOx arrowheads to enable dynamic monitoring of cell migration using impedance measurement. This microfluidic device integrated with thin layer of guiding pattern and microelectrodes allows simultaneous control of directional cell migration and characterization of the cell movement of individual MC3T3-E1 cells, offering great potential for the development of biosensors for single-cell monitoring.
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Grants
- CityU11207620, CityU11207821, CityU11205423 Research Grants Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- CityU11207620, CityU11207821, CityU11205423 Research Grants Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
- 9360148, 9380062 Center for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology (CBNN) of City University of Hong Kong
- 9360148, 9380062 Center for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology (CBNN) of City University of Hong Kong
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Affiliation(s)
- Yijun Cheng
- Department of Electrical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
- Centre for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
| | - Stella W Pang
- Department of Electrical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
- Centre for Biosystems, Neuroscience, and Nanotechnology, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
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4
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Tan H, Chen X, Huang X, Chen D, Qin X, Wang J, Chen J. Electrical micro flow cytometry with LSTM and its application in leukocyte differential. Cytometry A 2024; 105:54-61. [PMID: 37715355 DOI: 10.1002/cyto.a.24791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/17/2023]
Abstract
This paper developed an electrical micro flow cytometry to realize leukocyte differentials leveraging a constrictional microchannel and a deep neural network. Firstly, purified granulocytes, lymphocytes or monocytes traveled through the constrictional microchannel with a cross-sectional area marginally larger than individual cells and produced large impedance variations by blocking focused electric field lines. By optimizing key elements (e.g., normalization, learning rate, batch size and neuron number) of the recurrent neural network (RNN), electrical results of purified leukocytes were analyzed to establish a leukocyte differential system with a classification accuracy of 95.2%. Then the leukocyte mixtures were forced to travel through the same constrictional microchannel, producing mixed impedance profiles which were classified into granulocytes, lymphocytes and monocytes based on the aforementioned differential system. As to the classification results, two leukocyte mixtures from the same donor were processed, producing comparable classification results, which were 57% versus 59% of granulocytes, 37% versus 34% of lymphocytes and 6% versus 7% of monocytes. These results validated the established classification system based on the constrictional microchannel and the recurrent neural network, providing a new perspective of differentiating white blood cells by electrical flow cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiwen Tan
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xukun Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Deyong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuzhen Qin
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Junbo Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Jian Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Transducer Technology, Aerospace Information Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Future Technology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
- School of Electronic, Electrical and Communication Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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5
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Mansor MA, Ahmad MR, Petrů M, Rahimian Koloor SS. An impedance flow cytometry with integrated dual microneedle for electrical properties characterization of single cell. ARTIFICIAL CELLS, NANOMEDICINE, AND BIOTECHNOLOGY 2023; 51:371-383. [PMID: 37548425 DOI: 10.1080/21691401.2023.2239274] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
Electrical characteristics of living cells have been proven to reveal important details about their internal structure, charge distribution and composition changes in the cell membrane, as well as the extracellular context. An impedance flow cytometry is a common approach to determine the electrical properties of a cell, having the advantage of label-free and high throughput. However, the current techniques are complex and costly for the fabrication process. For that reason, we introduce an integrated dual microneedle-microchannel for single-cell detection and electrical properties extraction. The dual microneedles utilized a commercially available tungsten needle coated with parylene. When a single cell flows through the parallel-facing electrode configuration of the dual microneedle, the electrical impedance at multiple frequencies is measured. The impedance measurement demonstrated the differential of normal red blood cells (RBCs) with three different sizes of microbeads at low and high frequencies, 100 kHz and 2 MHz, respectively. An electrical equivalent circuit model (ECM) was used to determine the unique membrane capacitance of individual cells. The proposed technique demonstrated that the specific membrane capacitance of an RBC is 9.42 mF/m-2, with the regression coefficients, ρ at 0.9895. As a result, this device may potentially be used in developing countries for low-cost single-cell screening and detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Asraf Mansor
- Department of Control and Mechatronics Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Ridzuan Ahmad
- Department of Control and Mechatronics Engineering, Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Skudai, Malaysia
| | - Michal Petrů
- Faculty of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Liberec, Liberec, Czech Republic
| | - Seyed Saeid Rahimian Koloor
- Institute for Nanomaterials, Advanced Technologies and Innovation, Technical University of Liberec, Liberec, Czech Republic
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6
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Raj M K, Priyadarshani J, Karan P, Bandyopadhyay S, Bhattacharya S, Chakraborty S. Bio-inspired microfluidics: A review. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2023; 17:051503. [PMID: 37781135 PMCID: PMC10539033 DOI: 10.1063/5.0161809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Biomicrofluidics, a subdomain of microfluidics, has been inspired by several ideas from nature. However, while the basic inspiration for the same may be drawn from the living world, the translation of all relevant essential functionalities to an artificially engineered framework does not remain trivial. Here, we review the recent progress in bio-inspired microfluidic systems via harnessing the integration of experimental and simulation tools delving into the interface of engineering and biology. Development of "on-chip" technologies as well as their multifarious applications is subsequently discussed, accompanying the relevant advancements in materials and fabrication technology. Pointers toward new directions in research, including an amalgamated fusion of data-driven modeling (such as artificial intelligence and machine learning) and physics-based paradigm, to come up with a human physiological replica on a synthetic bio-chip with due accounting of personalized features, are suggested. These are likely to facilitate physiologically replicating disease modeling on an artificially engineered biochip as well as advance drug development and screening in an expedited route with the minimization of animal and human trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiran Raj M
- Department of Applied Mechanics and Biomedical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600036, India
| | - Jyotsana Priyadarshani
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Biomechanics Section (BMe), KU Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 300, 3001 Louvain, Belgium
| | - Pratyaksh Karan
- Géosciences Rennes Univ Rennes, CNRS, Géosciences Rennes, UMR 6118, 35000 Rennes, France
| | - Saumyadwip Bandyopadhyay
- Advanced Technology Development Centre, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
| | - Soumya Bhattacharya
- Achira Labs Private Limited, 66b, 13th Cross Rd., Dollar Layout, 3–Phase, JP Nagar, Bangalore, Karnataka 560078, India
| | - Suman Chakraborty
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur, Kharagpur, West Bengal 721302, India
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7
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Tang T, Julian T, Ma D, Yang Y, Li M, Hosokawa Y, Yalikun Y. A review on intelligent impedance cytometry systems: Development, applications and advances. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1269:341424. [PMID: 37290859 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.341424] [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: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Impedance cytometry is a well-established technique for counting and analyzing single cells, with several advantages, such as convenience, high throughput, and no labeling required. A typical experiment consists of the following steps: single-cell measurement, signal processing, data calibration, and particle subtype identification. At the beginning of this article, we compared commercial and self-developed options extensively and provided references for developing reliable detection systems, which are necessary for cell measurement. Then, a number of typical impedance metrics and their relationships to biophysical properties of cells were analyzed with respect to the impedance signal analysis. Given the rapid advances of intelligent impedance cytometry in the past decade, this article also discussed the development of representative machine learning-based approaches and systems, and their applications in data calibration and particle identification. Finally, the remaining challenges facing the field were summarized, and potential future directions for each step of impedance detection were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tang
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayamacho, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan; Department of Biomedical Engineering, National University of Singapore, 4 Engineering Drive 3, Singapore, 117583, Singapore
| | - Trisna Julian
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayamacho, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Doudou Ma
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), RIKEN, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Yang Yang
- Institute of Deep-Sea Science and Engineering, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Sanya, Hainan, 572000, PR China
| | - Ming Li
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, 2109, Australia
| | - Yoichiroh Hosokawa
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayamacho, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan
| | - Yaxiaer Yalikun
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayamacho, Ikoma, Nara, 630-0192, Japan; Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), RIKEN, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan.
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8
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Liang M, Tang Q, Zhong J, Ai Y. Machine learning empowered multi-stress level electromechanical phenotyping for high-dimensional single cell analysis. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 225:115086. [PMID: 36696849 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidics provides a powerful platform for biological analysis by harnessing the ability to precisely manipulate fluids and microparticles with integrated microsensors. Here, we introduce an imaging and impedance cell analyzer (IM2Cell), which implements single cell level impedance analysis and hydrodynamic mechanical phenotyping simultaneously. For the first time, IM2Cell demonstrates the capability of multi-stress level mechanical phenotyping. Specifically, IM2Cell is capable of characterizing cell diameter, three deformability responses, and four electrical properties. It presents high-dimensional information to give insight into subcellular components such as cell membrane, cytoplasm, cytoskeleton, and nucleus. In this work, we first validate imaging and impedance-based cell analyses separately. Then, the two techniques are combined to obtain both imaging and impedance data analyzed by machine learning method, exhibiting an improved prediction accuracy from 83.1% to 95.4% between fixed and living MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Next, IM2Cell demonstrates 91.2% classification accuracy in a mixture of unlabeled MCF-10A, MCF-7, and MDA-MB-231 cell lines. Finally, an application demonstrates the potential of IM2Cell for the deformability studies of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) subpopulations without cumbersome isolation or labeling steps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minhui Liang
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, 8 Somapah Road, Singapore, 487372, Singapore
| | - Qiang Tang
- Jiangsu Provincal Engineering Research Center for Biomedical Materials and Advanced Medical Devices, Faculty of Mechanical and Material Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian, 223003, China
| | - Jianwei Zhong
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, 8 Somapah Road, Singapore, 487372, Singapore
| | - Ye Ai
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, 8 Somapah Road, Singapore, 487372, Singapore.
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9
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Fang Q, Feng Y, Zhu J, Huang L, Wang W. Floating-Electrode-Enabled Impedance Cytometry for Single-Cell 3D Localization. Anal Chem 2023; 95:6374-6382. [PMID: 36996369 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c05822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
As a label-free, low-cost, and noninvasive tool, impedance measurement has been widely used in single-cell characterization analysis. However, due to the tiny volume of cells, the uncertainty of the spatial position in the microchannel will bring measurement errors in single-cell electrical parameters. To overcome the issue, we designed a novel microdevice configured with a coplanar differential electrode structure to accurately resolve the spatial position of single cells without constraining techniques such as additional sheath fluids or narrow microchannels. The device precisely localizes single cells by measuring the induced current generated by the combined action of the floating electrode and the differential electrodes when single cells flow through the electrode-sensing area. The device was experimentally validated by measuring 6 μm yeast cells and 10 μm particles, achieving spatial localization with a resolution down to 2.1 μm (about 5.3% of the channel width) in lateral direction and 1.2 μm (about 5.9% of the channel height) in the vertical direction at a flow rate of 1.2 μL/min. In addition, by comparing measurement of yeast cells and particles, it was demonstrated that the device not only localizes the single cells or particles but also simultaneously characterizes their status properties such as velocity and size. The device offers a competitive electrode configuration in impedance cytometry with the advantages of simple structure, low cost, and high throughput, promising cell localization and thus electrical characterization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Fang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Measuring Theory and Precision Instrument and School of Instrument Science and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Yongxiang Feng
- Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Junwen Zhu
- Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Liang Huang
- Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Measuring Theory and Precision Instrument and School of Instrument Science and Opto-Electronics Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Wenhui Wang
- Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
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10
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Lu N, Tay HM, Petchakup C, He L, Gong L, Maw KK, Leong SY, Lok WW, Ong HB, Guo R, Li KHH, Hou HW. Label-free microfluidic cell sorting and detection for rapid blood analysis. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:1226-1257. [PMID: 36655549 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00904h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Blood tests are considered as standard clinical procedures to screen for markers of diseases and health conditions. However, the complex cellular background (>99.9% RBCs) and biomolecular composition often pose significant technical challenges for accurate blood analysis. An emerging approach for point-of-care blood diagnostics is utilizing "label-free" microfluidic technologies that rely on intrinsic cell properties for blood fractionation and disease detection without any antibody binding. A growing body of clinical evidence has also reported that cellular dysfunction and their biophysical phenotypes are complementary to standard hematoanalyzer analysis (complete blood count) and can provide a more comprehensive health profiling. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in microfluidic label-free separation of different blood cell components including circulating tumor cells, leukocytes, platelets and nanoscale extracellular vesicles. Label-free single cell analysis of intrinsic cell morphology, spectrochemical properties, dielectric parameters and biophysical characteristics as novel blood-based biomarkers will also be presented. Next, we will highlight research efforts that combine label-free microfluidics with machine learning approaches to enhance detection sensitivity and specificity in clinical studies, as well as innovative microfluidic solutions which are capable of fully integrated and label-free blood cell sorting and analysis. Lastly, we will envisage the current challenges and future outlook of label-free microfluidics platforms for high throughput multi-dimensional blood cell analysis to identify non-traditional circulating biomarkers for clinical diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Lu
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, Nanyang Technological University, 65 Nanyang Drive, Block N3, 637460, Singapore
| | - Hui Min Tay
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Chayakorn Petchakup
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Linwei He
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Lingyan Gong
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Kay Khine Maw
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Sheng Yuan Leong
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Wan Wei Lok
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Hong Boon Ong
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Ruya Guo
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Information Acquisition Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - King Ho Holden Li
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, Nanyang Technological University, 65 Nanyang Drive, Block N3, 637460, Singapore
| | - Han Wei Hou
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, Nanyang Technological University, 65 Nanyang Drive, Block N3, 637460, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore
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11
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Recent advances in non-optical microfluidic platforms for bioparticle detection. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 222:114944. [PMID: 36470061 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2022.114944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
The effective analysis of the basic structure and functional information of bioparticles are of great significance for the early diagnosis of diseases. The synergism between microfluidics and particle manipulation/detection technologies offers enhanced system integration capability and test accuracy for the detection of various bioparticles. Most microfluidic detection platforms are based on optical strategies such as fluorescence, absorbance, and image recognition. Although optical microfluidic platforms have proven their capabilities in the practical clinical detection of bioparticles, shortcomings such as expensive components and whole bulky devices have limited their practicality in the development of point-of-care testing (POCT) systems to be used in remote and underdeveloped areas. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop cost-effective non-optical microfluidic platforms for bioparticle detection that can act as alternatives to optical counterparts. In this review, we first briefly summarise passive and active methods for bioparticle manipulation in microfluidics. Then, we survey the latest progress in non-optical microfluidic strategies based on electrical, magnetic, and acoustic techniques for bioparticle detection. Finally, a perspective is offered, clarifying challenges faced by current non-optical platforms in developing practical POCT devices and clinical applications.
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Chen YS, Huang CH, Pai PC, Seo J, Lei KF. A Review on Microfluidics-Based Impedance Biosensors. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:bios13010083. [PMID: 36671918 PMCID: PMC9855525 DOI: 10.3390/bios13010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Electrical impedance biosensors are powerful and continuously being developed for various biological sensing applications. In this line, the sensitivity of impedance biosensors embedded with microfluidic technologies, such as sheath flow focusing, dielectrophoretic focusing, and interdigitated electrode arrays, can still be greatly improved. In particular, reagent consumption reduction and analysis time-shortening features can highly increase the analytical capabilities of such biosensors. Moreover, the reliability and efficiency of analyses are benefited by microfluidics-enabled automation. Through the use of mature microfluidic technology, complicated biological processes can be shrunk and integrated into a single microfluidic system (e.g., lab-on-a-chip or micro-total analysis systems). By incorporating electrical impedance biosensors, hand-held and bench-top microfluidic systems can be easily developed and operated by personnel without professional training. Furthermore, the impedance spectrum provides broad information regarding cell size, membrane capacitance, cytoplasmic conductivity, and cytoplasmic permittivity without the need for fluorescent labeling, magnetic modifications, or other cellular treatments. In this review article, a comprehensive summary of microfluidics-based impedance biosensors is presented. The structure of this article is based on the different substrate material categorizations. Moreover, the development trend of microfluidics-based impedance biosensors is discussed, along with difficulties and challenges that may be encountered in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Shih Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Chun-Hao Huang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
| | - Ping-Ching Pai
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
| | - Jungmok Seo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-749, Republic of Korea
| | - Kin Fong Lei
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan 33302, Taiwan
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Linkou Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 33305, Taiwan
- Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 120-749, Republic of Korea
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13
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Discrimination of tumor cell type based on cytometric detection of dielectric properties. Talanta 2022; 246:123524. [DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2022.123524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Tang T, Liu X, Yuan Y, Kiya R, Shen Y, Zhang T, Suzuki K, Tanaka Y, Li M, Hosokawa Y, Yalikun Y. Dual-frequency impedance assays for intracellular components in microalgal cells. LAB ON A CHIP 2022; 22:550-559. [PMID: 35072196 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00721a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Intracellular components (including organelles and biomolecules) at the submicron level are typically analyzed in situ by special preparation or expensive setups. Here, a label-free and cost-effective approach of screening microalgal single-cells at a subcellular resolution is available based on impedance cytometry. To the best of our knowledge, it is the first time that the relationships between impedance signals and submicron intracellular organelles and biomolecules are shown. Experiments were performed on Euglena gracilis (E. gracilis) cells incubated under different incubation conditions (i.e., aerobic and anaerobic) and 15 μm polystyrene beads (reference) at two distinct stimulation frequencies (i.e., 500 kHz and 6 MHz). Based on the impedance detection of tens of thousands of samples at a throughput of about 900 cells per second, three metrics were used to track the changes in biophysical properties of samples. As a result, the electrical diameters of cells showed a clear shrinkage in cell volume and intracellular components, as observed under a microscope. The morphology metric of impedance pulses (i.e., tilt index) successfully characterized the changes in cell shape and intracellular composition distribution. Besides, the electrical opacity showed a stable ratio of the intracellular components to cell volume under the cellular self-regulation. Additionally, simulations were used to support these findings and to elucidate how submicron intracellular components and cell morphology affect impedance signals, providing a basis for future improvements. This work opens up a label-free and high-throughput way to analyze single-cell intracellular components by impedance cytometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tang
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
| | - Xun Liu
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
| | - Yapeng Yuan
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), RIKEN, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ryota Kiya
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
| | - Yigang Shen
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), RIKEN, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Tianlong Zhang
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, 2109, Australia
| | | | - Yo Tanaka
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), RIKEN, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
| | - Ming Li
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, 2109, Australia
| | - Yoichiroh Hosokawa
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
| | - Yaxiaer Yalikun
- Division of Materials Science, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan.
- Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research (BDR), RIKEN, 1-3 Yamadaoka, Suita, Osaka, 565-0871, Japan
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Kim S, Song H, Ahn H, Kim T, Jung J, Cho SK, Shin DM, Choi JR, Hwang YH, Kim K. A Review of Advanced Impedance Biosensors with Microfluidic Chips for Single-Cell Analysis. BIOSENSORS 2021; 11:412. [PMID: 34821628 PMCID: PMC8615569 DOI: 10.3390/bios11110412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Electrical impedance biosensors combined with microfluidic devices can be used to analyze fundamental biological processes for high-throughput analysis at the single-cell scale. These specialized analytical tools can determine the effectiveness and toxicity of drugs with high sensitivity and demonstrate biological functions on a single-cell scale. Because the various parameters of the cells can be measured depending on methods of single-cell trapping, technological development ultimately determine the efficiency and performance of the sensors. Identifying the latest trends in single-cell trapping technologies afford opportunities such as new structural design and combination with other technologies. This will lead to more advanced applications towards improving measurement sensitivity to the desired target. In this review, we examined the basic principles of impedance sensors and their applications in various biological fields. In the next step, we introduced the latest trend of microfluidic chip technology for trapping single cells and summarized the important findings on the characteristics of single cells in impedance biosensor systems that successfully trapped single cells. This is expected to be used as a leading technology in cell biology, pathology, and pharmacological fields, promoting the further understanding of complex functions and mechanisms within individual cells with numerous data sampling and accurate analysis capabilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soojung Kim
- Departments of Congo-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (S.K.); (H.S.); (H.A.); (T.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Hyerin Song
- Departments of Congo-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (S.K.); (H.S.); (H.A.); (T.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Heesang Ahn
- Departments of Congo-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (S.K.); (H.S.); (H.A.); (T.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Taeyeon Kim
- Departments of Congo-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (S.K.); (H.S.); (H.A.); (T.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Jihyun Jung
- Departments of Congo-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (S.K.); (H.S.); (H.A.); (T.K.); (J.J.)
| | - Soo Kyung Cho
- Division of Nano Convergence Technology, Pusan National University (PNU), Miryang 50463, Korea;
| | - Dong-Myeong Shin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong 999077, China;
| | - Jong-ryul Choi
- Medical Device Development Center, Daegu-Gyeongbuk Medical Innovation Foundation (DGMIF), Daegu 41061, Korea;
| | - Yoon-Hwae Hwang
- Department of Nano Energy Engineering, Pusan National University (PNU), Busan 46241, Korea
| | - Kyujung Kim
- Departments of Congo-Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea; (S.K.); (H.S.); (H.A.); (T.K.); (J.J.)
- Department of Optics and Mechatronics Engineering, Pusan National University, Busan 46241, Korea
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Zhong J, Liang M, Ai Y. Submicron-precision particle characterization in microfluidic impedance cytometry with double differential electrodes. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:2869-2880. [PMID: 34236057 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00481f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Submicron-precision particle characterization is crucial for counting, sizing and identifying a variety of biological particles, such as bacteria and apoptotic bodies. Microfluidic impedance cytometry has been attractive in current research for microparticle characterization due to its advantages of label-free detection, ease of miniaturization and affordability. However, conventional electrode configurations of three electrodes and floating electrodes have not yet demonstrated the capability of probing submicron particles or microparticles with a submicron size difference. In this study, we present a label-free high-throughput (∼800 particles per second) impedance-based microfluidic flow cytometry system integrated with a novel design of a double differential electrode configuration, enabling submicron particle detection (down to 0.4 μm) with a minimum size resolution of 200 nm. The signal-to-noise ratio has been boosted from 13.98 dB to 32.64 dB compared to a typical three-electrode configuration. With the proposed microfluidic impedance cytometry, we have shown results of sizing microparticles that accurately correlate with manufacturers' datasheets (R2 = 0.99938). It also shows that population ratios of differently sized beads in mixture samples are consistent with the results given by commercial fluorescence-based flow cytometry (within ∼1% difference). This work provides a label-free approach with submicron precision for sizing and counting microscale and submicron particles, and a new avenue of designing electrode configurations with a feature of suppressing the electrical noise for accomplishing a high signal-to-noise ratio in a wide range of frequencies. This novel double differential impedance sensing system paves a new pathway for real-time analysis and accurate particle screening in pathological and pharmacological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianwei Zhong
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, 8 Somapah Road, Singapore 487372, Singapore.
| | - Minhui Liang
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, 8 Somapah Road, Singapore 487372, Singapore.
| | - Ye Ai
- Pillar of Engineering Product Development, Singapore University of Technology and Design, 8 Somapah Road, Singapore 487372, Singapore.
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Zhu S, Zhang X, Zhou Z, Han Y, Xiang N, Ni Z. Microfluidic impedance cytometry for single-cell sensing: Review on electrode configurations. Talanta 2021; 233:122571. [PMID: 34215067 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2021.122571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Single-cell analysis has gained considerable attention for disease diagnosis, drug screening, and differentiation monitoring. Compared to the well-established flow cytometry, which uses fluorescent-labeled antibodies, microfluidic impedance cytometry (MIC) offers a simple, label-free, and noninvasive method for counting, classifying, and monitoring cells. Superior features including a small footprint, low reagent consumption, and ease of use have also been reported. The MIC device detects changes in the impedance signal caused by cells passing through the sensing/electric field zone, which can extract information regarding the size, shape, and dielectric properties of these cells. According to recent studies, electrode configuration has a remarkable effect on detection accuracy, sensitivity, and throughput. With the improvement in microfabrication technology, various electrode configurations have been reported for improving detection accuracy and throughput. However, the various electrode configurations of MIC devices have not been reviewed. In this review, the theoretical background of the impedance technique for single-cell analysis is introduced. Then, two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and liquid electrode configurations are discussed separately; their sensing mechanisms, fabrication processes, advantages, disadvantages, and applications are also described in detail. Finally, the current limitations and future perspectives of these electrode configurations are summarized. The main aim of this review is to offer a guide for researchers on the ongoing advancement in electrode configuration designs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Zhu
- School of Mechanical Engineering, And Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
| | - Xiaozhe Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, And Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
| | - Zheng Zhou
- School of Mechanical Engineering, And Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
| | - Yu Han
- School of Mechanical Engineering, And Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China
| | - Nan Xiang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, And Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China.
| | - Zhonghua Ni
- School of Mechanical Engineering, And Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China.
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Honrado C, Bisegna P, Swami NS, Caselli F. Single-cell microfluidic impedance cytometry: from raw signals to cell phenotypes using data analytics. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:22-54. [PMID: 33331376 PMCID: PMC7909465 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00840k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
The biophysical analysis of single-cells by microfluidic impedance cytometry is emerging as a label-free and high-throughput means to stratify the heterogeneity of cellular systems based on their electrophysiology. Emerging applications range from fundamental life-science and drug assessment research to point-of-care diagnostics and precision medicine. Recently, novel chip designs and data analytic strategies are laying the foundation for multiparametric cell characterization and subpopulation distinction, which are essential to understand biological function, follow disease progression and monitor cell behaviour in microsystems. In this tutorial review, we present a comparative survey of the approaches to elucidate cellular and subcellular features from impedance cytometry data, covering the related subjects of device design, data analytics (i.e., signal processing, dielectric modelling, population clustering), and phenotyping applications. We give special emphasis to the exciting recent developments of the technique (timeframe 2017-2020) and provide our perspective on future challenges and directions. Its synergistic application with microfluidic separation, sensor science and machine learning can form an essential toolkit for label-free quantification and isolation of subpopulations to stratify heterogeneous biosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos Honrado
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, USA.
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