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Elsayed M, Bodo L, Gaoiran C, Keuhnelian P, Dosajh A, Luk V, Schwandt M, French JL, Ghosh A, Erickson B, Charlesworth AG, Millman J, Wheeler AR. Toward Analysis at the Point of Need: A Digital Microfluidic Approach to Processing Multi-Source Sexual Assault Samples. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2405712. [PMID: 39230280 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202405712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Forensic case samples collected in sexual assaults typically contain DNA from multiple sources, which complicates short-tandem repeat (STR) profiling. These samples are typically sent to a laboratory to separate the DNA from sperm and non-sperm sources prior to analysis. Here, the automation and miniaturization of these steps using digital microfluidics (DMF) is reported, which may eventually enable processing sexual assault samples outside of the laboratory, at the point of need. When applied to vaginal swab samples collected up to 12 h post-coitus (PC), the new method identifies single-source (male) STR profiles. When applied to samples collected 24-72 h PC, the method identifies mixed STR profiles, suggesting room for improvement and/or potential for data deconvolution. In sum, an automated, miniaturized sample pre-processing method for separating the DNA contained in sexual assault samples is demonstrated. This type of automated processing using DMF, especially when combined with Rapid DNA Analysis, has the potential to be used for processing of sexual assault samples in hospitals, police offices, and other locations outside of the laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Elsayed
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Leticia Bodo
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Christine Gaoiran
- Forensic Science Department, University of Toronto Mississauga, 4th floor, Terrence Donnelly Health Sciences Complex, 3359 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Palig Keuhnelian
- Forensic Science Department, University of Toronto Mississauga, 4th floor, Terrence Donnelly Health Sciences Complex, 3359 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Advikaa Dosajh
- Forensic Science Department, University of Toronto Mississauga, 4th floor, Terrence Donnelly Health Sciences Complex, 3359 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Vivienne Luk
- Forensic Science Department, University of Toronto Mississauga, 4th floor, Terrence Donnelly Health Sciences Complex, 3359 Mississauga Rd., Mississauga, ON, L5L 1C6, Canada
| | - Melissa Schwandt
- ANDE Corporation, 1860 Industrial Circle, Suite A, Longmont, CO, 80501, USA
| | - Julie L French
- ANDE Corporation, 1860 Industrial Circle, Suite A, Longmont, CO, 80501, USA
| | - Alpana Ghosh
- Centre of Forensic Sciences, 25 Morton Shulman Avenue, Toronto, ON, M3M 0B1, Canada
| | - Barbara Erickson
- Centre of Forensic Sciences, 25 Morton Shulman Avenue, Toronto, ON, M3M 0B1, Canada
| | | | - Jonathan Millman
- Centre of Forensic Sciences, 25 Morton Shulman Avenue, Toronto, ON, M3M 0B1, Canada
| | - Aaron R Wheeler
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E2, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
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2
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Steinbach MK, Leipert J, Matzanke T, Tholey A. Digital Microfluidics for Sample Preparation in Low-Input Proteomics. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400495. [PMID: 39205538 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 08/16/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
Low-input proteomics, also referred to as micro- or nanoproteomics, has become increasingly popular as it allows one to elucidate molecular processes in rare biological materials. A major prerequisite for the analytics of minute protein amounts, e.g., derived from low cell numbers, down to single cells, is the availability of efficient sample preparation methods. Digital microfluidics (DMF), a technology allowing the handling and manipulation of low liquid volumes, has recently been shown to be a powerful and versatile tool to address the challenges in low-input proteomics. Here, an overview is provided on recent advances in proteomics sample preparation using DMF. In particular, the capability of DMF to isolate proteomes from cells and small model organisms, and to perform all necessary chemical sample preparation steps, such as protein denaturation and proteolytic digestion on-chip, are highlighted. Additionally, major prerequisites to making these steps compatible with follow-up analytical methods such as liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max K Steinbach
- Systematic Proteome Research & Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Jan Leipert
- Systematic Proteome Research & Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Theo Matzanke
- Systematic Proteome Research & Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany
| | - Andreas Tholey
- Systematic Proteome Research & Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, 24105, Kiel, Germany
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3
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Wu T, Wang T, He X, Zhao J, Yan H, Zhou T, Shi L. Investigation into the optoelectrowetting droplet transport mechanism. Electrophoresis 2024; 45:1428-1442. [PMID: 38430203 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300296] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
To explore the optoelectronic wetting droplet transport mechanism, a transient numerical model of optoelectrowetting (OEW) under the coupling of flow and electric fields is established. The study investigates the impact of externally applied voltage, dielectric constant of the dielectric layer, and interfacial tension between the two phases on the dynamic behavior of droplets during transport. The proposed model employs an improved Young's equation to calculate the instantaneous voltage and contact angle of the droplet on the dielectric layer. Results indicate that, under the influence of OEW, significant variations in the interface contact angle of droplets occur in bright and dark regions, inducing droplet movement. Moreover, the dynamic behavior of droplet transport is closely associated with various parameters, including externally applied voltage, dielectric layer material, and interfacial tension between the two phases, all of which impact the contact angle and, consequently, the transport process. By summarizing the influence patterns of the three key parameters studied, the optimization of droplet transport performance is achieved. The study employs two-dimensional simulation models to emulate the droplet motion under the influence of the electric field, investigating the OEW droplet transport mechanism. The continuous movement of droplets involves three stages: initial wetting, continuous transport, and reaching a steady position. The findings contribute theoretical support for the efficient design of digital microfluidic devices for OEW droplet movement and the selection of key parameters for droplet manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Wu
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
| | - Tianyi Wang
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
- School of Information and Communication Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
| | - Xiaohan He
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
- School of Information and Communication Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
| | - Juncheng Zhao
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
| | - Hong Yan
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
| | - Teng Zhou
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
| | - Liuyong Shi
- School of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan, P. R. China
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4
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Zhang R, Zhang C, Fan X, Au Yeung CCK, Li H, Lin H, Shum HC. A droplet robotic system enabled by electret-induced polarization on droplet. Nat Commun 2024; 15:6220. [PMID: 39043732 PMCID: PMC11266649 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-50520-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Robotics for scientific research are evolving from grasping macro-scale solid materials to directly actuating micro-scale liquid samples. However, current liquid actuation mechanisms often restrict operable liquid types or compromise the activity of biochemical samples by introducing interfering mediums. Here, we propose a robotic liquid handling system enabled by a novel droplet actuation mechanism, termed electret-induced polarization on droplet (EPD). EPD enables all-liquid actuation in principle and experimentally exhibits generality for actuating various inorganic/organic liquids with relative permittivity ranging from 2.25 to 84.2 and volume from 500 nL to 1 mL. Moreover, EPD is capable of actuating various biochemical samples without compromising their activities, including various body fluids, living cells, and proteins. A robotic system is also coupled with the EPD mechanism to enable full automation. EPD's high adaptability with liquid types and biochemical samples thus promotes the automation of liquid-based scientific experiments across multiple disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruotong Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Chengzhi Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiaoxue Fan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Christina C K Au Yeung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Huiyanchen Li
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Haisong Lin
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Ho Cheung Shum
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
- Advanced Biomedical Instrumentation Centre, Hong Kong Science Park, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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Tan L, Zeng Q, Xu F, Zhao Q, Chen A, Wang T, Tao X, Yang Y, Wang X. Controllable Manipulation of Large-Volume Droplet on Non-Slippery Surfaces Based on Triboelectric Contactless Charge Injection. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2024; 36:e2313878. [PMID: 38364828 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202313878] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
Controllable droplet manipulation is crucial in diverse scientific and engineering fields. Traditional electric-based methods usually rely on commercial high-voltage (HV) power sources, which are typically bulky, expensive, and potentially hazardous. The triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) is a highly studied device that can generate HV output with limited current, showing great potential in droplet manipulation applications. However, current TENG-based approaches usually utilize traditional free-standing TENGs that produce short-pulsed alternating-current signals. This limitation hinders continuous electrostatic forces necessary for precise droplet control, leading to complex circuitry and suboptimal droplet motion control in terms of volume, distance, direction, and momentum. Here, a triboelectric contactless charge injection (TCCI) method employing a novel dual-functional triboelectric nanogenerator (DF-TENG), is proposed. The DF-TENG can produce both high voltage and constant current during unidirectional motion, enabling continuous corona discharges for contactless charge injection into the droplets. Using this method, a large-volume droplet (3000 µL) can be controlled with momentum up to 115.2 g mm s-1, quintupling the highest value recorded by the traditional methods. Moreover, the TCCI method is adaptable for a variety of non-slippery substrates and droplets of different compositions and viscosities, which makes it an ideal manipulation strategy for droplet transport, chemical reactions, and even driving solids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liming Tan
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
| | - Qixuan Zeng
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
| | - Fan Xu
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
| | - Qing Zhao
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
| | - Ai Chen
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
| | - Tingyu Wang
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
| | - Xingming Tao
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
| | - Yuchen Yang
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
| | - Xue Wang
- Department of Applied Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing, 400044, P. R. China
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6
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Zeng Y, Gan X, Xu Z, Hu X, Hu C, Ma H, Tu H, Chai B, Yang C, Hu S, Chai Y. AIEgens-enhanced rapid sensitive immunofluorescent assay for SARS-CoV-2 with digital microfluidics. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1298:342398. [PMID: 38462346 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2024.342398] [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: 12/02/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sensitive and rapid antigen detection is critical for the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases, but conventional ELISAs including chemiluminescence-based assays are limited in sensitivity and require many operation steps. Fluorescence immunoassays are fast and convenient but often show limited sensitivity and dynamic range. RESULTS To address the need, an aggregation-induced emission fluorgens (AIEgens) enhanced immunofluorescent assay with beads-based quantification on the digital microfluidic (DMF) platform was developed. Portable DMF devices and chips with small electrodes were fabricated, capable of manipulating droplets within 100 nL and boosting the reaction efficiency. AIEgen nanoparticles (NPs) with high fluorescence and photostability were synthesized to enhance the test sensitivity and detection range. The integration of AIEgen probes, transparent DMF chip design, and the large magnetic beads (10 μm) as capture agents enabled rapid and direct image-taking and signal calculation of the test result. The performance of this platform was demonstrated by point-of-care quantification of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid (N) protein. Within 25 min, a limit of detection of 5.08 pg mL-1 and a limit of quantification of 8.91 pg mL-1 can be achieved using <1 μL sample. The system showed high reproducibility across the wide dynamic range (10-105 pg mL-1), with the coefficient of variance ranging from 2.6% to 9.8%. SIGNIFICANCE This rapid, sensitive AIEgens-enhanced immunofluorescent assay on the DMF platform showed simplified reaction steps and improved performance, providing insight into the small-volume point-of-care testing of different biomarkers in research and clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuping Zeng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Xiangyu Gan
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Zhourui Xu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Xiaoxiang Hu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Chenxuan Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China.
| | - Hanbin Ma
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China; Guangdong ACXEL Micro & Nano Tech Co., Ltd, Foshan, Guangdong province, China.
| | - Hangjia Tu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Bao Chai
- Department of Dermatology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, 518052, China; Department of Dermatology, The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, 518052, China.
| | - Chengbin Yang
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
| | - Siyi Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China.
| | - Yujuan Chai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Biomedical Measurements and Ultrasound Imaging, School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University Medical School, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China.
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Sheng H, Chen L, Zhao Y, Long X, Chen Q, Wu C, Li B, Fei Y, Mi L, Ma J. Closed, one-stop intelligent and accurate particle characterization based on micro-Raman spectroscopy and digital microfluidics. Talanta 2024; 266:124895. [PMID: 37454511 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.124895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Monoclonal antibodies are prone to form protein particles through aggregation, fragmentation, and oxidation under varying stress conditions during the manufacturing, shipping, and storage of parenteral drug products. According to pharmacopeia requirements, sub-visible particle levels need to be controlled throughout the shelf life of the product. Therefore, in addition to determining particle counts, it is crucial to accurately characterize particles in drug product to understand the stress condition of exposure and to implement appropriate mitigation actions for a specific formulation. In this study, we developed a new method for intelligent characterization of protein particles using micro-Raman spectroscopy on a digital microfluidic chip (DMF). Several microliters of protein particle solutions induced by stress degradation were loaded onto a DMF chip to generate multiple droplets for Raman spectroscopy testing. By training multiple machine learning classification models on the obtained Raman spectra of protein particles, eight types of protein particles were successfully characterized and predicted with high classification accuracy (93%-100%). The advantages of the novel particle characterization method proposed in this study include a closed system to prevent particle contamination, one-stop testing of morphological and chemical structure information, low sample volume consumption, reusable particle droplets, and simplified data analysis with high classification accuracy. It provides great potential to determine the probable root cause of the particle source or stress conditions by a single testing, so that an accurate particle control strategy can be developed and ultimately extend the product shelf-life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Sheng
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Academy for Engineer and Technology, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Liwen Chen
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultra-precision Optical Manufacturing, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Green Photoelectron Platform, Department of Optical Science and Engineering, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China; Ruidge Biotech Co. Ltd., No. 888, Huanhu West 2nd Road, Lin-Gang Special Area, China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Shanghai, 200131, China
| | - Yinping Zhao
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Academy for Engineer and Technology, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Xiangan Long
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Academy for Engineer and Technology, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Qiushu Chen
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultra-precision Optical Manufacturing, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Green Photoelectron Platform, Department of Optical Science and Engineering, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Chuanyong Wu
- Shanghai Hengxin BioTechnology, Ltd., 1688 North Guo Quan Rd, Bldg A8, Rm 801, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Bei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Applied Optics, Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No.3888 Dong Nanhu Road, Changchun, Jilin, 130033, China
| | - Yiyan Fei
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultra-precision Optical Manufacturing, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Green Photoelectron Platform, Department of Optical Science and Engineering, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China
| | - Lan Mi
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultra-precision Optical Manufacturing, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Green Photoelectron Platform, Department of Optical Science and Engineering, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
| | - Jiong Ma
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Academy for Engineer and Technology, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Ultra-precision Optical Manufacturing, Key Laboratory of Micro and Nano Photonic Structures (Ministry of Education), Green Photoelectron Platform, Department of Optical Science and Engineering, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China; Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Industrial Microorganisms, The Multiscale Research Institute of Complex Systems (MRICS), School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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Yang C, Gan X, Zeng Y, Xu Z, Xu L, Hu C, Ma H, Chai B, Hu S, Chai Y. Advanced design and applications of digital microfluidics in biomedical fields: An update of recent progress. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 242:115723. [PMID: 37832347 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115723] [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: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/29/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Significant breakthroughs have been made in digital microfluidic (DMF)-based technologies over the past decades. DMF technology has attracted great interest in bioassays depending on automatic microscale liquid manipulations and complicated multi-step processing. In this review, the recent advances of DMF platforms in the biomedical field were summarized, focusing on the integrated design and applications of the DMF system. Firstly, the electrowetting-on-dielectric principle, fabrication of DMF chips, and commercialization of the DMF system were elaborated. Then, the updated droplets and magnetic beads manipulation strategies with DMF were explored. DMF-based biomedical applications were comprehensively discussed, including automated sample preparation strategies, immunoassays, molecular diagnosis, blood processing/testing, and microbe analysis. Emerging applications such as enzyme activity assessment and DNA storage were also explored. The performance of each bioassay was compared and discussed, providing insight into the novel design and applications of the DMF technology. Finally, the advantages, challenges, and future trends of DMF systems were systematically summarized, demonstrating new perspectives on the extensive applications of DMF in basic research and commercialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chengbin Yang
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Xiangyu Gan
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Yuping Zeng
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Zhourui Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Longqian Xu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China.
| | - Chenxuan Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China.
| | - Hanbin Ma
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China; Guangdong ACXEL Micro & Nano Tech Co., Ltd, Foshan, China.
| | - Bao Chai
- Department of Dermatology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology Union Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China; Department of Dermatology, The 6th Affiliated Hospital of Shenzhen University Health Science Center, Shenzhen, China.
| | - Siyi Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China.
| | - Yujuan Chai
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, China.
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Cardoso BD, Castanheira EMS, Lanceros‐Méndez S, Cardoso VF. Recent Advances on Cell Culture Platforms for In Vitro Drug Screening and Cell Therapies: From Conventional to Microfluidic Strategies. Adv Healthc Mater 2023; 12:e2202936. [PMID: 36898671 PMCID: PMC11468737 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202202936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2022] [Revised: 02/27/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
The clinical translations of drugs and nanomedicines depend on coherent pharmaceutical research based on biologically accurate screening approaches. Since establishing the 2D in vitro cell culture method, the scientific community has improved cell-based drug screening assays and models. Those advances result in more informative biochemical assays and the development of 3D multicellular models to describe the biological complexity better and enhance the simulation of the in vivo microenvironment. Despite the overall dominance of conventional 2D and 3D cell macroscopic culture methods, they present physicochemical and operational challenges that impair the scale-up of drug screening by not allowing a high parallelization, multidrug combination, and high-throughput screening. Their combination and complementarity with microfluidic platforms enable the development of microfluidics-based cell culture platforms with unequivocal advantages in drug screening and cell therapies. Thus, this review presents an updated and consolidated view of cell culture miniaturization's physical, chemical, and operational considerations in the pharmaceutical research scenario. It clarifies advances in the field using gradient-based microfluidics, droplet-based microfluidics, printed-based microfluidics, digital-based microfluidics, SlipChip, and paper-based microfluidics. Finally, it presents a comparative analysis of the performance of cell-based methods in life research and development to achieve increased precision in the drug screening process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz D. Cardoso
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF‐UM‐UP), Campus de GualtarUniversity of MinhoBraga4710‐057Portugal
- LaPMET‐Laboratory of Physics for Materials and Emergent TechnologiesUniversity of Minho4710‐057BragaPortugal
- Center for MicroElectromechanical Systems (CMEMS‐UMinho)Campus de AzurémUniversity of Minho4800‐058GuimarãesPortugal
- LABBELS‐Associate Laboratory in Biotechnology and Bioengineering and Microelectromechanical SystemsUniversity of MinhoBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
| | - Elisabete M. S. Castanheira
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF‐UM‐UP), Campus de GualtarUniversity of MinhoBraga4710‐057Portugal
- LaPMET‐Laboratory of Physics for Materials and Emergent TechnologiesUniversity of Minho4710‐057BragaPortugal
| | - Senentxu Lanceros‐Méndez
- Physics Centre of Minho and Porto Universities (CF‐UM‐UP), Campus de GualtarUniversity of MinhoBraga4710‐057Portugal
- LaPMET‐Laboratory of Physics for Materials and Emergent TechnologiesUniversity of Minho4710‐057BragaPortugal
- BCMaterialsBasque Center for MaterialsApplications and NanostructuresUPV/EHU Science ParkLeioa48940Spain
- IKERBASQUEBasque Foundation for ScienceBilbao48009Spain
| | - Vanessa F. Cardoso
- Center for MicroElectromechanical Systems (CMEMS‐UMinho)Campus de AzurémUniversity of Minho4800‐058GuimarãesPortugal
- LABBELS‐Associate Laboratory in Biotechnology and Bioengineering and Microelectromechanical SystemsUniversity of MinhoBraga/GuimarãesPortugal
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10
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Stutzmann C, Peng J, Wu Z, Savoie C, Sirois I, Thibault P, Wheeler AR, Caron E. Unlocking the potential of microfluidics in mass spectrometry-based immunopeptidomics for tumor antigen discovery. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2023; 3:100511. [PMID: 37426761 PMCID: PMC10326451 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2023.100511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
The identification of tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) is critical for developing effective cancer immunotherapies. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based immunopeptidomics has emerged as a powerful tool for identifying TSAs as physical molecules. However, current immunopeptidomics platforms face challenges in measuring low-abundance TSAs in a precise, sensitive, and reproducible manner from small needle-tissue biopsies (<1 mg). Inspired by recent advances in single-cell proteomics, microfluidics technology offers a promising solution to these limitations by providing improved isolation of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-associated peptides with higher sensitivity. In this context, we highlight the challenges in sample preparation and the rationale for developing microfluidics technology in immunopeptidomics. Additionally, we provide an overview of promising microfluidic methods, including microchip pillar arrays, valved-based systems, droplet microfluidics, and digital microfluidics, and discuss the latest research on their application in MS-based immunopeptidomics and single-cell proteomics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiaxi Peng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Zhaoguan Wu
- CHU Sainte Justine Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | | | - Pierre Thibault
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Aaron R. Wheeler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Etienne Caron
- CHU Sainte Justine Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Cellular Biology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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11
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Jenne A, von der Ecken S, Moxley-Paquette V, Soong R, Swyer I, Bastawrous M, Busse F, Bermel W, Schmidig D, Kuehn T, Kuemmerle R, Al Adwan-Stojilkovic D, Graf S, Frei T, Monette M, Wheeler AR, Simpson AJ. Integrated Digital Microfluidics NMR Spectroscopy: A Key Step toward Automated In Vivo Metabolomics. Anal Chem 2023; 95:5858-5866. [PMID: 36996326 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c04201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/01/2023]
Abstract
Toxicity testing is currently undergoing a paradigm shift from examining apical end points such as death, to monitoring sub-lethal toxicity in vivo. In vivo nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy is a key platform in this endeavor. A proof-of-principle study is presented which directly interfaces NMR with digital microfluidics (DMF). DMF is a "lab on a chip" method allowing for the movement, mixing, splitting, and dispensing of μL-sized droplets. The goal is for DMF to supply oxygenated water to keep the organisms alive while NMR detects metabolomic changes. Here, both vertical and horizontal NMR coil configurations are compared. While a horizontal configuration is ideal for DMF, NMR performance was found to be sub-par and instead, a vertical-optimized single-sided stripline showed most promise. In this configuration, three organisms were monitored in vivo using 1H-13C 2D NMR. Without support from DMF droplet exchange, the organisms quickly showed signs of anoxic stress; however, with droplet exchange, this was completely suppressed. The results demonstrate that DMF can be used to maintain living organisms and holds potential for automated exposures in future. However, due to numerous limitations of vertically orientated DMF, along with space limitations in standard bore NMR spectrometers, we recommend future development be performed using a horizontal (MRI style) magnet which would eliminate practically all the drawbacks identified here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Jenne
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80. St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Sebastian von der Ecken
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80. St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
- Nicoya, B-29 King Street East, Kitchener, Ontario N2G 2K4, Canada
| | - Vincent Moxley-Paquette
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Ronald Soong
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Ian Swyer
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80. St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Monica Bastawrous
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
| | - Falko Busse
- Bruker BioSpin GmbH, Rudolf-Plank-Str. 23, 76275 Ettlingen, Germany
| | - Wolfgang Bermel
- Bruker BioSpin GmbH, Rudolf-Plank-Str. 23, 76275 Ettlingen, Germany
| | - Daniel Schmidig
- Bruker BioSpin AG, Industriestrasse 26, 8117 Fällanden, Switzerland
| | - Till Kuehn
- Bruker BioSpin AG, Industriestrasse 26, 8117 Fällanden, Switzerland
| | - Rainer Kuemmerle
- Bruker BioSpin AG, Industriestrasse 26, 8117 Fällanden, Switzerland
| | | | - Stephan Graf
- Bruker BioSpin AG, Industriestrasse 26, 8117 Fällanden, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Frei
- Bruker BioSpin AG, Industriestrasse 26, 8117 Fällanden, Switzerland
| | - Martine Monette
- Bruker Canada Ltd., 2800 High Point Drive, Milton, Ontario L9T 6P4, Canada
| | - Aaron R Wheeler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80. St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
- Institute for Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Andre J Simpson
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80. St. George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
- Environmental NMR Center, University of Toronto Scarborough, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, Ontario M1C 1A4, Canada
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12
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Bian X, Huang H, Chen L, Shen X. Droplet Tweezers Based on the Hydrophilic-Hydrophobic Interface Structure and Their Biological Application. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:13522-13531. [PMID: 36288502 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c02074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Droplet controllable operation has wide applications in microfluidics, biomedicine, microreactors, and other fields. Droplets can spontaneously transfer from a high-energy state to a low-energy state, but how to reverse transfer the droplets is a difficult task. In this article, we use a special hydrophilic-hydrophobic interphase structure (HHIS) to achieve this reverse transfer. We specifically study the critical conditions under which droplet transfer can be achieved. The length of the hydrophilic surface in this structure and the hydrophilic/hydrophobic properties of the surface must be in the appropriate range. Based on this, an optimized structure used to transfer droplets was designed. Finally, we carried out research on biological applications and successfully achieved the transfer of droplets from zebrafish eggs and zebrafish larvae. This unique method is low-cost, biofriendly, and highly applicable to various surfaces, illustrating the great potential in chemical and biological analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongheng Bian
- ChinaSchool of Information Science and Technology, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
| | - Haibo Huang
- Robotics & Microsystem Center & Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123,China
| | - Liguo Chen
- Robotics & Microsystem Center & Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123,China
| | - Xiaoyan Shen
- ChinaSchool of Information Science and Technology, Nantong University, Nantong 226019, China
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13
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Bian X, Chen L, Ma L, Shen X. Chopstick-Like Structure for the Free Transfer of Microdroplets in Robot Chemistry Laboratory. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2022; 38:13150-13157. [PMID: 36269326 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.2c01921] [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
As we all know, chopsticks can hold food, so can we use this method to carry Newtonian fluids such as droplets? This paper studies the process of this transfer and uses this method to realize the manipulation of open microfluidics by robots. To realize this transfer operation, we first analyzed the force of droplets in this chopstick-like structure and found that the bidirectional movement of droplets in this structure can be achieved by changing the structural parameters. Afterward, the whole process of the transfer of droplets using the chopstick-like structure was analyzed, and the parameter requirements for realizing this transfer were determined. The research in this paper provides a theoretical basis for the controllable manipulation of droplets which can be widely used in unmanned laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongheng Bian
- School of Information Science and Technology, Nantong University, Nantong226019, China
| | - Liguo Chen
- Robotics & Microsystem Center & Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology, Soochow University, Suzhou215123, China
| | - Lei Ma
- School of Information Science and Technology, Nantong University, Nantong226019, China
| | - Xiaoyan Shen
- School of Information Science and Technology, Nantong University, Nantong226019, China
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14
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Guan X, Huang S. Advances in the application of 3D tumor models in precision oncology and drug screening. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:1021966. [PMID: 36246388 PMCID: PMC9555934 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.1021966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Traditional tumor models cannot perfectly simulate the real state of tumors in vivo, resulting in the termination of many clinical trials. 3D tumor models’ technology provides new in vitro models that bridge the gap between in vitro and in vivo findings, and organoids maintain the properties of the original tissue over a long period of culture, which enables extensive research in this area. In addition, they can be used as a substitute for animal and in vitro models, and organoids can be established from patients’ normal and malignant tissues, with unique advantages in clinical drug development and in guiding individualized therapies. 3D tumor models also provide a promising platform for high-throughput research, drug and toxicity testing, disease modeling, and regenerative medicine. This report summarizes the 3D tumor model, including evidence regarding the 3D tumor cell culture model, 3D tumor slice model, and organoid culture model. In addition, it provides evidence regarding the application of 3D tumor organoid models in precision oncology and drug screening. The aim of this report is to elucidate the value of 3D tumor models in cancer research and provide a preclinical reference for the precise treatment of cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyong Guan
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi University of Science and Technology, Liuzhou, Guangxi, China
| | - Shigao Huang
- Department of Radiation Oncology, The First Affiliated Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, China
- *Correspondence: Shigao Huang,
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15
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Abstract
Cell manipulation in droplets has emerged as one of the great successes of microfluidic technologies, with the development of single-cell screening. However, the droplet format has also served to go beyond single-cell studies, namely by considering the interactions between different cells or between cells and their physical or chemical environment. These studies pose specific challenges linked to the need for long-term culture of adherent cells or the diverse types of measurements associated with complex biological phenomena. Here we review the emergence of droplet microfluidic methods for culturing cells and studying their interactions. We begin by characterizing the quantitative aspects that determine the ability to encapsulate cells, transport molecules, and provide sufficient nutrients within the droplets. This is followed by an evaluation of the biological constraints such as the control of the biochemical environment and promoting the anchorage of adherent cells. This first part ends with a description of measurement methods that have been developed. The second part of the manuscript focuses on applications of these technologies for cancer studies, immunology, and stem cells while paying special attention to the biological relevance of the cellular assays and providing guidelines on improving this relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sébastien Sart
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Gustave Ronteix
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Shreyansh Jain
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Gabriel Amselem
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
| | - Charles N Baroud
- LadHyX, CNRS, Ecole Polytechnique, Institut Polytechnique de Paris, 91120 Palaiseau, France.,Physical Microfluidics and Bioengineering, Institut Pasteur, 25-28 Rue du Dr. Roux, 75015 Paris, France
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16
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Zhang S, Xu B, Elsayed M, Nan F, Liang W, Valley JK, Liu L, Huang Q, Wu MC, Wheeler AR. Optoelectronic tweezers: a versatile toolbox for nano-/micro-manipulation. Chem Soc Rev 2022; 51:9203-9242. [DOI: 10.1039/d2cs00359g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
This review covers the fundamentals, recent progress and state-of-the-art applications of optoelectronic tweezers technology, and demonstrates that optoelectronic tweezers technology is a versatile and powerful toolbox for nano-/micro-manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuailong Zhang
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Room 711, Building No 6, Science and Technology Park, 5 Zhongguancun South St, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Bingrui Xu
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Room 711, Building No 6, Science and Technology Park, 5 Zhongguancun South St, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Mohamed Elsayed
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Fan Nan
- Institute of Nanophotonics, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Wenfeng Liang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Shenyang Jianzhu University, Shenyang, 110168, China
| | - Justin K. Valley
- Berkeley Lights, Inc, 5858 Horton Street #320, Emeryville, CA 94608, USA
| | - Lianqing Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
- Institutes for Robotics and Intelligent Manufacturing, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Qiang Huang
- School of Mechatronical Engineering, Beijing Institute of Technology, Room 711, Building No 6, Science and Technology Park, 5 Zhongguancun South St, Haidian District, Beijing, 100081, China
- Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Intelligent Robots and Systems, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing, 100081, China
- Key Laboratory of Biomimetic Robots and Systems (Beijing Institute of Technology), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Ming C. Wu
- Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, USA
| | - Aaron R. Wheeler
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G9, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3E1, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, M5S 3H6, Canada
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17
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Zhu P, Wang L. Microfluidics-Enabled Soft Manufacture of Materials with Tailorable Wettability. Chem Rev 2021; 122:7010-7060. [PMID: 34918913 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidics and wettability are interrelated and mutually reinforcing fields, experiencing synergistic growth. Surface wettability is paramount in regulating microfluidic flows for processing and manipulating fluids at the microscale. Microfluidics, in turn, has emerged as a versatile platform for tailoring the wettability of materials. We present a critical review on the microfluidics-enabled soft manufacture (MESM) of materials with well-controlled wettability and their multidisciplinary applications. Microfluidics provides a variety of liquid templates for engineering materials with exquisite composition and morphology, laying the foundation for precisely controlling the wettability. Depending on the degree of ordering, liquid templates are divided into individual droplets, one-dimensional (1D) arrays, and two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) assemblies for the modular fabrication of microparticles, microfibers, and monolithic porous materials, respectively. Future exploration of MESM will enrich the diversity of chemical composition and physical structure for wettability control and thus markedly broaden the application horizons across engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, and medicine. This review aims to systematize this emerging yet robust technology, with the hope of aiding the realization of its full potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pingan Zhu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Liqiu Wang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
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18
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Kerk YJ, Jameel A, Xing X, Zhang C. Recent advances of integrated microfluidic suspension cell culture system. ENGINEERING BIOLOGY 2021; 5:103-119. [PMID: 36970555 PMCID: PMC9996741 DOI: 10.1049/enb2.12015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidic devices with superior microscale fluid manipulation ability and large integration flexibility offer great advantages of high throughput, parallelisation and multifunctional automation. Such features have been extensively utilised to facilitate cell culture processes such as cell capturing and culturing under controllable and monitored conditions for cell-based assays. Incorporating functional components and microfabricated configurations offered different levels of fluid control and cell manipulation strategies to meet diverse culture demands. This review will discuss the advances of single-phase flow and droplet-based integrated microfluidic suspension cell culture systems and their applications for accelerated bioprocess development, high-throughput cell selection, drug screening and scientific research to insight cell biology. Challenges and future prospects for this dynamically developing field are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Jing Kerk
- Institute of Biochemical EngineeringDepartment of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Aysha Jameel
- Institute of Biochemical EngineeringDepartment of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
- MOE Key Laboratory of Industrial BiocatalysisDepartment of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Xin‐Hui Xing
- Institute of Biochemical EngineeringDepartment of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
- MOE Key Laboratory of Industrial BiocatalysisDepartment of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
- Center for Synthetic and Systems BiologyTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
| | - Chong Zhang
- Institute of Biochemical EngineeringDepartment of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
- MOE Key Laboratory of Industrial BiocatalysisDepartment of Chemical Engineering, Tsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
- Center for Synthetic and Systems BiologyTsinghua UniversityBeijingChina
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19
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Chen YY, Ting IJ, Wang SC. Using office inkjet printer to develop paper-based electrowetting-on-dielectric micromixer based on capillary wave-induced droplet vibration mixing for the reproducibility improvement of chemiluminescence assays. J Taiwan Inst Chem Eng 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jtice.2021.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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20
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Jin K, Hu C, Hu S, Hu C, Li J, Ma H. "One-to-three" droplet generation in digital microfluidics for parallel chemiluminescence immunoassays. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:2892-2900. [PMID: 34196334 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00421b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In digital microfluidics, droplet generation is a fundamental operation for quantitative liquid manipulation. The generation of well-defined micro-droplets on a chip with restricted device geometries has become a real obstacle for digital microfluidics platforms to be used in parallel for in vitro diagnostic applications. Here, we propose a "one-to-three" droplet splitting technique that is able to generate sub-microlitre droplets beyond the "well-known" geometry limit in electrowetting-on-dielectric digital microfluidics. Accordingly, we realized an on-chip magnetic bead chemiluminescence immunoassay for parallel detection with the "one-to-three" technique. With the help of the generated micro droplets, we were able to retain the magnetic beads by a significantly reduced magnetic force. We have shown the detection of five B-type natriuretic peptide analyte samples on a single chip for around 10 minutes. The correlation coefficient of the calibration curve was 0.9942, and the detection limit was lower than 5 pg mL-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Jin
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Nanophotonics and Biophotonics Key Laboratory of Jilin Province, School of Science, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, Jilin province 130022, P.R.China. and CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 88 Keling Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu province 215163, P.R.China.
| | - Chenxuan Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 88 Keling Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu province 215163, P.R.China.
| | - Siyi Hu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 88 Keling Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu province 215163, P.R.China.
| | - Chengyou Hu
- Guangdong ACXEL Micro & Nano Tech Co., Ltd, Guangdong province 528000, P.R.China
| | - Jinhua Li
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory for Cross-Scale Micro and Nano Manufacturing, Nanophotonics and Biophotonics Key Laboratory of Jilin Province, School of Science, Changchun University of Science and Technology, Changchun, Jilin province 130022, P.R.China.
| | - Hanbin Ma
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-medical Diagnostics, Suzhou Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, No. 88 Keling Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu province 215163, P.R.China.
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21
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Qiu W, Nagl S. Automated Miniaturized Digital Microfluidic Antimicrobial Susceptibility Test Using a Chip-Integrated Optical Oxygen Sensor. ACS Sens 2021; 6:1147-1156. [PMID: 33720687 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.0c02399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
We present the first digital microfluidic (DMF) antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) using an optical oxygen sensor film for in-situ and real-time continuous measurement of extracellular dissolved oxygen (DO). The device allows one to monitor bacterial growth across the entire cell culture area, and the fabricated device was utilized for a miniaturized and automated AST. The oxygen-sensitive probe platinum(II)-5,10,15,20-tetrakis-(2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorophenyl)-porphyrin was embedded in a Hyflon AD 60 polymer and spin-coated as a 100 nm thick layer onto an ITO glass serving as the DMF ground electrode. This DMF-integrated oxygen sensing film was found to cause no negative effects to the droplet manipulation or cell growth on the chip. The developed DMF platform was used to monitor the DO consumption during Escherichia coli (E. coli) growth caused by cellular respiration. A rapid and reliable twofold dilution procedure was developed and performed, and the AST with E. coli ATCC 25922 in the presence of ampicillin, chloramphenicol, and tetracycline at different concentrations from 0.5 to 8 μg mL-1 was investigated. All sample dispensation, dilution, and mixing were performed automatically on the chip within 10 min. The minimum inhibitory concentration values measured from the DMF chip were consistent with those from the standard broth microdilution method but requiring only minimal sample handling and working with much smaller sample volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenting Qiu
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Stefan Nagl
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, China
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22
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Ye WQ, Wei YY, Wang DN, Yang CG, Xu ZR. A digital microfluidic platform based on a near-infrared light-responsive shape-memory micropillar array. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:1131-1138. [PMID: 33533387 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc01324b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
In this work, we developed a digital microfluidic platform based on a shape memory micropillar array responsive to near-infrared light, and the droplets were programmatically manipulated through light-induced micropillar deformation. The micropillar array was constructed on the surface of a poly(ethylene-vinyl acetate) copolymer, a shape memory polymer sensitive to near-infrared light. Before droplet manipulation, the micropillar array was kept temporarily tilted by heating and pressing. Under the irradiation of a near-infrared laser, the micropillar array achieved the transition from the temporary shape to the original shape. Temperature gradient and micropillar deformation caused by near-infrared light irradiation produce the driving force for droplet movement. The movement of the laser mounted on an electronically controlled displacement platform was controlled by a computer to achieve the programmed control of the droplets. Moreover, we demonstrated light-manipulated droplet movement and fusion, and achieved ascorbic acid detection using this digital microfluidic platform. In particular, the micropillar array chip is able to manipulate droplets in a wide range of 0.1 μL to 10 μL. The proposed digital microfluidic platform will broaden the application of digital microfluidic technology in analytical chemistry and biomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Qi Ye
- Research Center for Analytical Sciences, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110819, China.
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23
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Yang BA, Westerhof TM, Sabin K, Merajver SD, Aguilar CA. Engineered Tools to Study Intercellular Communication. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2021; 8:2002825. [PMID: 33552865 PMCID: PMC7856891 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202002825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
All multicellular organisms rely on intercellular communication networks to coordinate physiological functions. As members of a dynamic social network, each cell receives, processes, and redistributes biological information to define and maintain tissue homeostasis. Uncovering the molecular programs underlying these processes is critical for prevention of disease and aging and development of therapeutics. The study of intercellular communication requires techniques that reduce the scale and complexity of in vivo biological networks while resolving the molecular heterogeneity in "omic" layers that contribute to cell state and function. Recent advances in microengineering and high-throughput genomics offer unprecedented spatiotemporal control over cellular interactions and the ability to study intercellular communication in a high-throughput and mechanistic manner. Herein, this review discusses how salient engineered approaches and sequencing techniques can be applied to understand collective cell behavior and tissue functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin A. Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
| | - Trisha M. Westerhof
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Hematology/Oncology and Rogel Cancer Center1500 East Medical Center Drive, Rogel Cancer CenterAnn ArborMI7314USA
| | - Kaitlyn Sabin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
| | - Sofia D. Merajver
- Department of Internal MedicineDivision of Hematology/Oncology and Rogel Cancer Center1500 East Medical Center Drive, Rogel Cancer CenterAnn ArborMI7314USA
| | - Carlos A. Aguilar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Biointerfaces Institute2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
- Program in Cellular and Molecular Biology2800 Plymouth Road, North Campus Research ComplexAnn ArborMIA10‐183USA
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Feng H, Yi Z, Yang R, Qin X, Shen S, Zeng W, Shui L, Zhou G, Zhang C. Designing Splicing Digital Microfluidics Chips Based on Polytetrafluoroethylene Membrane. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:mi11121067. [PMID: 33266119 PMCID: PMC7760364 DOI: 10.3390/mi11121067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
As a laboratory-on-a-chip application tool, digital microfluidics (DMF) technology is widely used in DNA-based applications, clinical diagnosis, chemical synthesis, and other fields. Additional components (such as heaters, centrifuges, mixers, etc.) are required in practical applications on DMF devices. In this paper, a DMF chip interconnection method based on electrowetting-on-dielectric (EWOD) was proposed. An open modified slippery liquid-infused porous surface (SLIPS) membrane was used as the dielectric-hydrophobic layer material, which consisted of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) membrane and silicone oil. Indium tin oxide (ITO) glass was used to manufacture the DMF chip. In order to test the relationship between the splicing gap and droplet moving, the effect of the different electrodes on/off time on the minimum driving voltage when the droplet crossed a splicing gap was investigated. Then, the effects of splicing gaps of different widths, splicing heights, and electrode misalignments were investigated, respectively. The experimental results showed that a driving voltage of 119 V was required for a droplet to cross a splicing gap width of 300 μm when the droplet volume was 10 μL and the electrode on/off time was 600 ms. At the same time, the droplet could climb a height difference of 150 μm with 145 V, and 141 V was required when the electrode misalignment was 1000 μm. Finally, the minimum voltage was not obviously changed, when the same volume droplet with different aqueous solutions crossed the splicing gap, and the droplet could cross different chip types. These splicing solutions show high potential for simultaneous detection of multiple components in human body fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haoqiang Feng
- College of Electron and Information, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Zhongshan Institute, Zhongshan 528402, China; (H.F.); (W.Z.); (L.S.); (C.Z.)
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (R.Y.); (X.Q.); (S.S.); (G.Z.)
| | - Zichuan Yi
- College of Electron and Information, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Zhongshan Institute, Zhongshan 528402, China; (H.F.); (W.Z.); (L.S.); (C.Z.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-0760-8831-4612
| | - Ruizhi Yang
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (R.Y.); (X.Q.); (S.S.); (G.Z.)
| | - Xiaofeng Qin
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (R.Y.); (X.Q.); (S.S.); (G.Z.)
| | - Shitao Shen
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (R.Y.); (X.Q.); (S.S.); (G.Z.)
| | - Wenjun Zeng
- College of Electron and Information, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Zhongshan Institute, Zhongshan 528402, China; (H.F.); (W.Z.); (L.S.); (C.Z.)
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (R.Y.); (X.Q.); (S.S.); (G.Z.)
| | - Lingling Shui
- College of Electron and Information, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Zhongshan Institute, Zhongshan 528402, China; (H.F.); (W.Z.); (L.S.); (C.Z.)
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (R.Y.); (X.Q.); (S.S.); (G.Z.)
| | - Guofu Zhou
- South China Academy of Advanced Optoelectronics, South China Normal University, Guangzhou 510006, China; (R.Y.); (X.Q.); (S.S.); (G.Z.)
| | - Chongfu Zhang
- College of Electron and Information, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Zhongshan Institute, Zhongshan 528402, China; (H.F.); (W.Z.); (L.S.); (C.Z.)
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25
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Mhatre S, Simon S, Sjöblom J. Experimental Evidence of Enhanced Adsorption Dynamics at Liquid-Liquid Interfaces under an Electric Field. Anal Chem 2020; 92:12860-12870. [PMID: 32892617 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c01287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In this work, we investigate the adsorption of surface-active compounds at the water-oil interface subjected to an electric field. A fluid system comprising a pendent water drop surrounded by an asphaltene-rich organic phase is exposed to a DC uniform electric field. Two subfractions of asphaltenes having contrasting affinities to the water-oil interface are used as surface-active compounds. The microscopic changes in the drop shape, as a result of asphaltene adsorption, are captured and the drop profiles are analyzed using our in-house code for axisymmetric drop shape analysis (ADSA) under an electric field. The estimates of dynamic interfacial tension under different strengths of the field (E0) and concentrations of the asphaltene subfractions (C) are used to calculate adsorption dynamics and surface excess. The experimental observations and careful analyses of the data suggest that the externally applied electric field significantly stimulates the mass-transfer rate at the liquid-liquid interface. The enhancement in mass transport at the water-oil interface can be attributed to the axisymmetric electrohydrodynamic fluid flows generated on either side of the interface. The boost in mass transport is evident from the growing decay in equilibrium interfacial tension (γeq) and increased surface excess (Γeq) upon increasing strength of the applied electric field. The mass-transfer intensification does not increase monotonously with the electric field strength above an optimum E0, which is in agreement with the previous theoretical studies in the literature. However, these first explicit experimental measurements of adsorption at an interface under an electric field suggest that the optimum E0 is determined by characteristics of the surface-active molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer Mhatre
- Ugelstad Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, Schulich School of Engineering, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada T2N 1N4
| | - Sébastien Simon
- Ugelstad Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
| | - Johan Sjöblom
- Ugelstad Laboratory, Department of Chemical Engineering, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), NO-7491 Trondheim, Norway
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Frey LJ, Vorländer D, Rasch D, Meinen S, Müller B, Mayr T, Dietzel A, Grosch JH, Krull R. Defining mass transfer in a capillary wave micro-bioreactor for dose-response and other cell-based assays. Biochem Eng J 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bej.2020.107667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Burkhart CT, Maki KL, Schertzer MJ. Coplanar Electrowetting-Induced Droplet Detachment from Radially Symmetric Electrodes. LANGMUIR : THE ACS JOURNAL OF SURFACES AND COLLOIDS 2020; 36:8129-8136. [PMID: 32551661 DOI: 10.1021/acs.langmuir.0c01015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
This work demonstrates electrowetting-induced droplet detachment in air from coplanar electrodes using a single voltage pulse. It also presents two models to predict when this detachment will occur. Previous works approximated the minimum energy for detachment based on (i) adhesion work at the solid-liquid interface and (ii) interfacial energy changes along all three interfaces in the system. This investigation updates those models to include changes in gravitational potential energy during detachment and provides validation by testing predicted detachment thresholds against experimental observations. Droplets of varying volume were ejected from electrowetting devices with (i) radially symmetric four-part coplanar electrodes and (ii) single electrodes with a ground wire inserted directly into the droplet. All experiments were performed in air. Incorporation of gravitational potential energy improves predictions for critical electrowetting number and captures the observed increase in applied voltage required with increased droplet volume. These new models will be of particular benefit in three-dimensional digital microfluidics applications that manipulate droplets in air.
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Affiliation(s)
- Collin T Burkhart
- Mechanical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, 76 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, New York 14623, United States
| | - Kara L Maki
- School of Mathematical Sciences, Rochester Institute of Technology, 76 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, New York 14623, United States
| | - Michael J Schertzer
- Mechanical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, 76 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, New York 14623, United States
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Chen P, Li S, Guo Y, Zeng X, Liu BF. A review on microfluidics manipulation of the extracellular chemical microenvironment and its emerging application to cell analysis. Anal Chim Acta 2020; 1125:94-113. [PMID: 32674786 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2020.05.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 05/22/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Spatiotemporal manipulation of extracellular chemical environments with simultaneous monitoring of cellular responses plays an essential role in exploring fundamental biological processes and expands our understanding of underlying mechanisms. Despite the rapid progress and promising successes in manipulation strategies, many challenges remain due to the small size of cells and the rapid diffusion of chemical molecules. Fortunately, emerging microfluidic technology has become a powerful approach for precisely controlling the extracellular chemical microenvironment, which benefits from its integration capacity, automation, and high-throughput capability, as well as its high resolution down to submicron. Here, we summarize recent advances in microfluidics manipulation of the extracellular chemical microenvironment, including the following aspects: i) Spatial manipulation of chemical microenvironments realized by convection flow-, diffusion-, and droplet-based microfluidics, and surface chemical modification; ii) Temporal manipulation of chemical microenvironments enabled by flow switching/shifting, moving/flowing cells across laminar flows, integrated microvalves/pumps, and droplet manipulation; iii) Spatiotemporal manipulation of chemical microenvironments implemented by a coupling strategy and open-space microfluidics; and iv) High-throughput manipulation of chemical microenvironments. Finally, we briefly present typical applications of the above-mentioned technical advances in cell-based analyses including cell migration, cell signaling, cell differentiation, multicellular analysis, and drug screening. We further discuss the future improvement of microfluidics manipulation of extracellular chemical microenvironments to fulfill the needs of biological and biomedical research and applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Chen
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Shunji Li
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yiran Guo
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xuemei Zeng
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Bi-Feng Liu
- The Key Laboratory for Biomedical Photonics of MOE at Wuhan National Laboratory for Optoelectronics-Hubei Bioinformatics & Molecular Imaging Key Laboratory, Systems Biology Theme, Department of Biomedical Engineering, College of Life Science and Technology, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
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30
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Yu W, Lin H, Wang Y, He X, Chen N, Sun K, Lo D, Cheng B, Yeung C, Tan J, Di Carlo D, Emaminejad S. A ferrobotic system for automated microfluidic logistics. Sci Robot 2020; 5:5/39/eaba4411. [DOI: 10.1126/scirobotics.aba4411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Automated technologies that can perform massively parallelized and sequential fluidic operations at small length scales can resolve major bottlenecks encountered in various fields, including medical diagnostics, -omics, drug development, and chemical/material synthesis. Inspired by the transformational impact of automated guided vehicle systems on manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution industries, we devised a ferrobotic system that uses a network of individually addressable robots, each performing designated micro-/nanofluid manipulation-based tasks in cooperation with other robots toward a shared objective. The underlying robotic mechanism facilitating fluidic operations was realized by addressable electromagnetic actuation of miniature mobile magnets that exert localized magnetic body forces on aqueous droplets filled with biocompatible magnetic nanoparticles. The contactless and high-strength nature of the actuation mechanism inherently renders it rapid (~10 centimeters/second), repeatable (>10,000 cycles), and robust (>24 hours). The robustness and individual addressability of ferrobots provide a foundation for the deployment of a network of ferrobots to carry out cross-collaborative logistics efficiently. These traits, together with the reconfigurability of the system, were exploited to devise and integrate passive/active advanced functional components (e.g., droplet dispensing, generation, filtering, and merging), enabling versatile system-level functionalities. By applying this ferrobotic system within the framework of a microfluidic architecture, the ferrobots were tasked to work cross-collaboratively toward the quantification of active matrix metallopeptidases (a biomarker for cancer malignancy and inflammation) in human plasma, where various functionalities converged to achieve a fully automated assay.
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31
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Microbioreactors for Process Development and Cell-Based Screening Studies. ADVANCES IN BIOCHEMICAL ENGINEERING/BIOTECHNOLOGY 2020; 179:67-100. [PMID: 32712680 DOI: 10.1007/10_2020_130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Microbioreactors (MBRs) have emerged as potent cultivation devices enabling automated small-scale experiments in parallel while enhancing their cost efficiency. The widespread use of MBRs has contributed to recent advances in industrial and pharmaceutical biotechnology, and they have proved to be indispensable tools in the development of many modern bioprocesses. Being predominantly applied in early stage process development, they open up new fields of research and enhance the efficacy of biotechnological product development. Their reduced reaction volume is associated with numerous inherent advantages - particularly the possibility for enabling parallel screening operations that facilitate high-throughput cultivations with reduced sample consumption (or the use of rare and expensive educts). As a result, multiple variables can be examined in a shorter time and with a lower expense. This leads to a simultaneous acceleration of research and process development along with decreased costs.MBRs range from simple miniaturized cultivations vessels (i.e., in the milliliter scale with limited possibilities for process control) to highly complex and automated small-scale microreactors with integrated sensors that allow for comprehensive screenings in very short time or a precise reflection of large-scale cultivation conditions. Progressive developments and improvements in manufacturing and automation techniques are already helping researchers to make use of the advantages that MBRs offer. This overview of current MBR systems surveys the diverse application for microbial and mammalian cell cultivations that have been developed in recent years.
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32
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Leipert J, Tholey A. Miniaturized sample preparation on a digital microfluidics device for sensitive bottom-up microproteomics of mammalian cells using magnetic beads and mass spectrometry-compatible surfactants. LAB ON A CHIP 2019; 19:3490-3498. [PMID: 31531506 DOI: 10.1039/c9lc00715f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
While LC-MS-based proteomics with high nanograms to micrograms of total protein has become routine, the analysis of samples derived from low cell numbers is challenged by factors such as sample losses, or difficulties encountered with the manual manipulation of small liquid volumes. Digital microfluidics (DMF) is an emerging technique for miniaturized and automated droplet manipulation, which has been proposed as a promising tool for proteomic sample preparation. However, proteome analysis of samples prepared on-chip by DMF has previously been unfeasible, due to incompatibility with down-stream LC-MS instrumentation. To overcome these limitations, we here developed protocols for bottom-up LC-MS based proteomics sample preparation of as little as 100 mammalian cells on a commercially available digital microfluidics device. To this end, we developed effective cell lysis conditions optimized for DMF, as well as detergent-buffer systems compatible with downstream proteolytic digestion on DMF chips and subsequent LC-MS analysis. A major step was the introduction of the single-pot, solid-phase-enhanced sample preparation (SP3) approach on-chip, which allowed the removal of salts and anti-fouling polymeric detergents, thus rendering sample preparation by DMF compatible with LC-MS-based proteome analysis. Application of DMF-SP3 to the proteome analysis of Jurkat T cells led to the identification of up to 2500 proteins from approximately 500 cells, and up to 1200 proteins from approximately 100 cells on an Orbitrap mass spectrometer, emphasizing the high compatibility of DMF-SP3 with low protein input and minute volumes handled by DMF. Taken together, we demonstrate the first sample preparation workflow for proteomics on a DMF chip device reported so far, allowing the sensitive analysis of limited biological material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Leipert
- Systematic Proteome Research & Bioanalytics, Institute for Experimental Medicine, Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel, 24105 Kiel, Germany.
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Berry SB, Lee JJ, Berthier J, Berthier E, Theberge AB. Droplet Incubation and Splitting in Open Microfluidic Channels. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2019; 11:4528-4536. [PMID: 32528558 PMCID: PMC7289158 DOI: 10.1039/c9ay00758j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Droplet-based microfluidics enables compartmentalization and controlled manipulation of small volumes. Open microfluidics provides increased accessibility, adaptability, and ease of manufacturing compared to closed microfluidic platforms. Here, we begin to build a toolbox for the emerging field of open channel droplet-based microfluidics, combining the ease of use associated with open microfluidic platforms with the benefits of compartmentalization afforded by droplet-based microfluidics. We develop fundamental microfluidic features to control droplets flowing in an immiscible carrier fluid within open microfluidic systems. Our systems use capillary flow to move droplets and carrier fluid through open channels and are easily fabricated through 3D printing, micromilling, or injection molding; further, droplet generation can be accomplished by simply pipetting an aqueous droplet into an empty open channel. We demonstrate on-chip incubation of multiple droplets within an open channel and subsequent transport (using an immiscible carrier phase) for downstream experimentation. We also present a method for tunable droplet splitting in open channels driven by capillary flow. Additional future applications of our toolbox for droplet manipulation in open channels include cell culture and analysis, on-chip microscale reactions, and reagent delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel B. Berry
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Box
351700, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
| | - Jing J. Lee
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Box
351700, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
| | - Jean Berthier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Box
351700, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
| | - Erwin Berthier
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Box
351700, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
| | - Ashleigh B. Theberge
- Department of Chemistry, University of Washington, Box
351700, Seattle, Washington 98195, USA
- Department of Urology, University of Washington School of
Medicine, Seattle, Washington 98105, USA
- Corresponding author: Dr. Ashleigh
Theberge,
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Tohgha UN, Alvino EL, Jarnagin CC, Iacono ST, Godman NP. Electrowetting Behavior and Digital Microfluidic Applications of Fluorescent, Polymer-Encapsulated Quantum Dot Nanofluids. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:28487-28498. [PMID: 31290307 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.9b07983] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Digital microfluidics is a liquid-handling technology capable of rapidly and autonomously controlling multiple discrete droplets across an array of electrodes and has seen continual growth in the fields of chemistry, biology, and optics. This technology is enabled by rapidly switching the wettability of a surface through the application of an electric field: a phenomenon known as electrowetting-on-dielectric. The results reported here elucidate the wetting behavior of fluorescent quantum dot nanofluids by varying the aqueous-solubilizing polymers, changing the size of the nanocrystals, and the addition of surfactants. Nanofluid droplets were demonstrated to have very large changes in contact angle (>100°) by employing alternating current voltage to aqueous droplets within a dodecane medium. The stability of quantum dot nanofluids is also evaluated within a digital microfluidics platform, and the optical properties are not perturbed even under high voltages (250 V). Multiple fluorescent droplets with varying emission can be simultaneously actuated and rapidly mixed (<10 s) to generate a new nanofluid with optical properties different from the parent solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urice N Tohgha
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate , Wright-Patterson Air Force Base , Dayton , Ohio 45433-7750 , United States
- Azimuth Corporation , 4027 Colonel Glenn Highway , Beavercreek , Ohio 45431 , United States
| | - Ernest L Alvino
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Research Center , United States Air Force Academy , Colorado Springs , Colorado 80840 , United States
| | - Clark C Jarnagin
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate , Wright-Patterson Air Force Base , Dayton , Ohio 45433-7750 , United States
- Azimuth Corporation , 4027 Colonel Glenn Highway , Beavercreek , Ohio 45431 , United States
| | - Scott T Iacono
- Department of Chemistry and Chemistry Research Center , United States Air Force Academy , Colorado Springs , Colorado 80840 , United States
| | - Nicholas P Godman
- Air Force Research Laboratory, Materials and Manufacturing Directorate , Wright-Patterson Air Force Base , Dayton , Ohio 45433-7750 , United States
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Coudron L, McDonnell MB, Munro I, McCluskey DK, Johnston ID, Tan CK, Tracey MC. Fully integrated digital microfluidics platform for automated immunoassay; A versatile tool for rapid, specific detection of a wide range of pathogens. Biosens Bioelectron 2019; 128:52-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Revised: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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37
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Bian X, Huang H, Chen L. Motion of droplets into hydrophobic parallel plates. RSC Adv 2019; 9:32278-32287. [PMID: 35530760 PMCID: PMC9072857 DOI: 10.1039/c9ra05135j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to the superior operability and good anti-interference, the prospect of controlling microdroplets using a parallel plate structure (PPS) is very promising. However, in practical applications, droplets in such structures are often affected by various factors, resulting in deformation, evaporation, stress rupture and other phenomena, leading to equipment failure. Therefore, how to simply and effectively transfer liquid droplets to PPS to maintain the stable and efficient operation of the system has become an urgent problem to be solved. In this paper, a simple and effective ratchet-like strategy (relaxing and squeezing actions) is introduced to transfer droplets. To analyze the mechanism of the strategy and optimize the control, we conduct this study from three aspects. First, the droplet movement trend is obtained by analyzing the pressure between SPS and PPS. Second, the reasons why the droplet can achieve this inward motion are investigated. Through theoretical analysis, which is also proven by simulations and experiments, we creatively put forward that the asymmetric change of the contact angle (CA) induced by the asymmetric structure is the fundamental cause of this kind of motion. Due to the asymmetric change of the contact angle, the CA in the PPS will reach the advancing angle first in the squeezing process, and the CA in the SPS will reach the receding angle first in the relaxing process, thus causing the inward movement of the droplet. Third, to optimize this strategy, the effects of the following governing parameters are researched individually based on the corresponding simulations and experiments: the control parameters (the initial gap width of the PPS H0 and the amount of squeezing and relaxing of ΔH) and the thickness of the top plate. Subsequently, an optimized ratchet-like cycle is achieved. In summary, these findings not only provide a new method by which to realize the movement of droplets toward hydrophobic PPSs but also creatively point out the cause of the ratchet strategy, which can be applied in many microfluidics fields. A simple and effective ratchet-like strategy is introduced to transfer droplets. We creatively put forward that the asymmetric change of the contact angle induced by the asymmetric structure is the fundamental cause of this kind of motion.![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiongheng Bian
- Robotics & Microsystem Center
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- China
| | - Haibo Huang
- Robotics & Microsystem Center
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- China
| | - Liguo Chen
- Robotics & Microsystem Center
- Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology
- Soochow University
- Suzhou 215123
- China
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Grimmer A, Frank P, Ebner P, Häfner S, Richter A, Wille R. Meander Designer: Automatically Generating Meander Channel Designs. MICROMACHINES 2018; 9:E625. [PMID: 30486446 PMCID: PMC6316455 DOI: 10.3390/mi9120625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Microfluidics continues to bring innovation to the life sciences. It stimulates progress by enabling new ways of research in biology, chemistry, and biotechnology. However, when designing a microfluidic device, designers have to conduct many tasks by hand-resulting in labor-intensive processes. In particular, when drawing the design of the device, designers have to handle re-occurring entities. Meander channels are one example, which are frequently used in different platforms but always have to fit the respective application and design rules. This work presents an online tool which is capable of automatically generating user-defined, two-dimensional designs of fluidic meander channels facilitating fluidic hydrodynamic resistances. The tool implements specific design rules as it considers the user's needs and fabrication requirements. The compliance of the meanders generated by the proposed tool is confirmed by fabricating the generated designs and comparing whether the resulting devices indeed realize the desired specification. To this end, two case studies are considered: first, the realization of dedicated fluidic resistances and, second, the realization of dedicated mixing ratios of fluids. The results demonstrate the versatility of the tool regarding application and technology. Overall, the freely accessible tool with its flexibility and simplicity renders manual drawing of meanders obsolete and, hence, allows for a faster, more straightforward design process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Grimmer
- Institute for Integrated Circuits, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4040 Linz, Austria.
| | - Philipp Frank
- Chair of Microsystems, Institute of Semiconductors and Microsystems, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Philipp Ebner
- Institute for Integrated Circuits, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4040 Linz, Austria.
| | - Sebastian Häfner
- Chair of Microsystems, Institute of Semiconductors and Microsystems, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Andreas Richter
- Chair of Microsystems, Institute of Semiconductors and Microsystems, Technische Universität Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany.
| | - Robert Wille
- Institute for Integrated Circuits, Johannes Kepler University Linz, 4040 Linz, Austria.
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Development of Coplanar Electro-Wetting Based Microfluidic Sorter to Select Micro-Particles in High Volume Throughput at Milliliter Amount within Twenty Minutes. SENSORS 2018; 18:s18092941. [PMID: 30181484 PMCID: PMC6164432 DOI: 10.3390/s18092941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This paper reports the work of developing one coplanar microfluidic sorter while using the electro-wetting on dielectrics (EWOD) technique. When connected with delivery capillary to receive sample solution containing micro-particles, this device can select about 10 micro-particles in high volume throughput of milliliter amount within 20 min, to potentially match the requirement of efficiently determining the low amounts of bacteria in concentrated food and environmental samples, of which the typical bacteria density is 10 colony forming unit or less, much smaller than that of clinical pathogen samples. This coplanar T-shape EWOD device contains two fluidic channels, one inlet channel and the other collection channel stemmed from the middle of inlet channel. When the solution droplet falls from the delivery capillary to the entrance end of inlet channel, the droplet is driven to the intersection of two channels. The droplet containing fluorescent particle will be diverted to the lower channel to collect. Otherwise, the non-fluorescent droplet keeps moving toward the other end of inlet channel to waste zone. The particle fluorescence is collected through microscope lens to detect with one photomultiplier tube. The detected signals trigger the personal computer control board to active each EWOD electrode to direct the droplet moving directions. When the solution of 1 mL containing about 10 fluorescent micro-particles is delivered into this sorting device, nearly all the particles were correctly directed into collection zone in 20 min.
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40
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Detection of antibiotics synthetized in microfluidic picolitre-droplets by various actinobacteria. Sci Rep 2018; 8:13087. [PMID: 30166560 PMCID: PMC6117260 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-31263-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The natural bacterial diversity is regarded as a treasure trove for natural products. However, accessing complex cell mixtures derived from environmental samples in standardized high-throughput screenings is challenging. Here, we present a droplet-based microfluidic platform for ultrahigh-throughput screenings able to directly harness the diversity of entire microbial communities. This platform combines extensive cultivation protocols in aqueous droplets starting from single cells or spores with modular detection methods for produced antimicrobial compounds. After long-term incubation for bacterial cell propagation and metabolite production, we implemented a setup for mass spectrometric analysis relying on direct electrospray ionization and injection of single droplets. Even in the presence of dense biomass we show robust detection of streptomycin on the single droplet level. Furthermore, we developed an ultrahigh-throughput screening based on a functional whole-cell assay by picoinjecting reporter cells into droplets. Depending on the survival of reporter cells, droplets were selected for the isolation of producing bacteria, which we demonstrated for a microbial soil community. The established ultrahigh-throughput screening for producers of antibiotics in miniaturized bioreactors in which diverse cell mixtures can be screened on the single cell level is a promising approach to find novel antimicrobial scaffolds.
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41
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Sinha H, Quach ABV, Vo PQN, Shih SCC. An automated microfluidic gene-editing platform for deciphering cancer genes. LAB ON A CHIP 2018; 18:2300-2312. [PMID: 29989627 DOI: 10.1039/c8lc00470f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Gene-editing techniques such as RNA-guided endonuclease systems are becoming increasingly popular for phenotypic screening. Such screens are normally conducted in arrayed or pooled formats. There has been considerable interest in recent years to find new technological methods for conducting these gene-editing assays. We report here the first digital microfluidic method that can automate arrayed gene-editing in mammalian cells. Specifically, this method was useful in culturing lung cancer cells for up to six days, as well as implementing automated gene transfection and knockout procedures. In addition, a standardized imaging pipeline to analyse fluorescently labelled cells was also designed and implemented during these procedures. A gene editing assay for interrogating the MAPK/ERK pathway was performed to show the utility of our platform and to determine the effects of knocking out the RAF1 gene in lung cancer cells. In addition to gene knockout, we also treated the cells with an inhibitor, Sorafenib Tosylate, to determine the effects of enzymatic inhibition. The combination of enzymatic inhibition and guide targeting on device resulted in lower drug concentrations for achieving half-inhibitory effects (IC50) compared to cells treated only with the inhibitor, confirming that lung cancer cells are being successfully edited on the device. We propose that this system will be useful for other types of gene-editing assays and applications related to personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hugo Sinha
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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42
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43
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Gach PC, Iwai K, Kim PW, Hillson NJ, Singh AK. Droplet microfluidics for synthetic biology. LAB ON A CHIP 2017; 17:3388-3400. [PMID: 28820204 DOI: 10.1039/c7lc00576h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Synthetic biology is an interdisciplinary field that aims to engineer biological systems for useful purposes. Organism engineering often requires the optimization of individual genes and/or entire biological pathways (consisting of multiple genes). Advances in DNA sequencing and synthesis have recently begun to enable the possibility of evaluating thousands of gene variants and hundreds of thousands of gene combinations. However, such large-scale optimization experiments remain cost-prohibitive to researchers following traditional molecular biology practices, which are frequently labor-intensive and suffer from poor reproducibility. Liquid handling robotics may reduce labor and improve reproducibility, but are themselves expensive and thus inaccessible to most researchers. Microfluidic platforms offer a lower entry price point alternative to robotics, and maintain high throughput and reproducibility while further reducing operating costs through diminished reagent volume requirements. Droplet microfluidics have shown exceptional promise for synthetic biology experiments, including DNA assembly, transformation/transfection, culturing, cell sorting, phenotypic assays, artificial cells and genetic circuits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip C Gach
- Technology Division, DOE Joint BioEnergy Institute, Emeryville, California 94608, USA
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44
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Vo PQN, Husser MC, Ahmadi F, Sinha H, Shih SCC. Image-based feedback and analysis system for digital microfluidics. LAB ON A CHIP 2017; 17:3437-3446. [PMID: 28871290 DOI: 10.1039/c7lc00826k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Digital microfluidics (DMF) is a technology that provides a means of manipulating nL-μL volumes of liquids on an array of electrodes. By applying an electric potential to an electrode, these discrete droplets can be controlled in parallel which can be transported, mixed, reacted, and analyzed. Typically, an automation system is interfaced with a DMF device that uses a standard set of basic instructions written by the user to execute droplet operations. Here, we present the first feedback method for DMF that relies on imaging techniques that will allow online detection of droplets without the need to reactivate all destination electrodes. Our system consists of integrating open-source electronics with a CMOS camera and a zoom lens for acquisition of the images that will be used to detect droplets on the device. We also created an algorithm that uses a Hough transform to detect a variety of droplet sizes and to detect singular droplet dispensing and movement failures on the device. As a first test, we applied this feedback system to test droplet movement for a variety of liquids used in cell-based assays and to optimize different feedback actuation schemes to improve droplet movement fidelity. We also applied our system to a colorimetric enzymatic assay to show that our system is capable of biological analysis. Overall, we believe that using our approach of integrating imaging and feedback for DMF can provide a platform for automating biological assays with analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philippe Q N Vo
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Concordia University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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45
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Li Z, Lai KYT, Yu PH, Chakrabarty K, Ho TY, Lee CY. Droplet Size-Aware High-Level Synthesis for Micro-Electrode-Dot-Array Digital Microfluidic Biochips. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON BIOMEDICAL CIRCUITS AND SYSTEMS 2017; 11:612-626. [PMID: 28333641 DOI: 10.1109/tbcas.2017.2653808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
A digital microfluidic biochip (DMFB) is an attractive technology platform for automating laboratory procedures in biochemistry. In recent years, DMFBs based on a microelectrode-dot-array (MEDA) architecture have been demonstrated. However, due to the inherent differences between today's DMFBs and MEDA, existing synthesis solutions for biochemistry mapping cannot be utilized for MEDA biochips. We present the first synthesis approach that can be used for MEDA biochips. We first present a general analytical model for droplet velocity and validate it experimentally using a fabricated MEDA biochip. We then present the proposed synthesis method targeting reservoir placement, operation scheduling, module placement, routing of droplets of various sizes, and diagonal movement of droplets in a two-dimensional array. Simulation results using benchmarks and experimental results using a fabricated MEDA biochip demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed synthesis technique.
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46
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Dryden MDM, Fobel R, Fobel C, Wheeler AR. Upon the Shoulders of Giants: Open-Source Hardware and Software in Analytical Chemistry. Anal Chem 2017; 89:4330-4338. [PMID: 28379683 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.7b00485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Isaac Newton famously observed that "if I have seen further it is by standing on the shoulders of giants." We propose that this sentiment is a powerful motivation for the "open-source" movement in scientific research, in which creators provide everything needed to replicate a given project online, as well as providing explicit permission for users to use, improve, and share it with others. Here, we write to introduce analytical chemists who are new to the open-source movement to best practices and concepts in this area and to survey the state of open-source research in analytical chemistry. We conclude by considering two examples of open-source projects from our own research group, with the hope that a description of the process, motivations, and results will provide a convincing argument about the benefits that this movement brings to both creators and users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael D M Dryden
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto , 80 Saint George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Ryan Fobel
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto , 80 Saint George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada.,Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research , 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Christian Fobel
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto , 80 Saint George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada.,Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research , 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Aaron R Wheeler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto , 80 Saint George Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3H6, Canada.,Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research , 160 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3E1, Canada.,Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto , 164 College Street, Toronto, Ontario M5S 3G9, Canada
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47
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Hu C, Lin S, Li W, Sun H, Chen Y, Chan CW, Leung CH, Ma DL, Wu H, Ren K. A one-step strategy for ultra-fast and low-cost mass production of plastic membrane microfluidic chips. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:3909-3918. [PMID: 27722382 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00957c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
An ultra-fast, extremely cost-effective, and environmentally friendly method was developed for fabricating flexible microfluidic chips with plastic membranes. With this method, we could fabricate plastic microfluidic chips rapidly (within 12 seconds per piece) at an extremely low cost (less than $0.02 per piece). We used a heated perfluoropolymer perfluoroalkoxy (often called Teflon PFA) solid stamp to press a pile of two pieces of plastic membranes, low density polyethylene (LDPE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) coated with an ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA). During the short period of contact with the heated PFA stamp, the pressed area of the membranes permanently bonded, while the LDPE membrane spontaneously rose up at the area not pressed, forming microchannels automatically. These two regions were clearly distinguishable even at the micrometer scale so we were able to fabricate microchannels with widths down to 50 microns. This method combines the two steps in the conventional strategy for microchannel fabrication, generating microchannels and sealing channels, into a single step. The production is a green process without using any solvent or generating any waste. Also, the chips showed good resistance against the absorption of Rhodamine 6G, oligonucleotides, and green fluorescent protein (GFP). We demonstrated some typical microfluidic manipulations with the flexible plastic membrane chips, including droplet formation, on-chip capillary electrophoresis, and peristaltic pumping for quantitative injection of samples and reagents. In addition, we demonstrated convenient on-chip detection of lead ions in water samples by a peristaltic-pumping design, as an example of the application of the plastic membrane chips in a resource-limited environment. Due to the high speed and low cost of the fabrication process, this single-step method will facilitate the mass production of microfluidic chips and commercialization of microfluidic technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chong Hu
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Sheng Lin
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Wanbo Li
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Han Sun
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Yangfan Chen
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Chiu-Wing Chan
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Chung-Hang Leung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Dik-Lung Ma
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China. and HKBU Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongkai Wu
- Department of Chemistry, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China.
| | - Kangning Ren
- Department of Chemistry, Hong Kong Baptist University, Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China. and HKBU Institute of Research and Continuing Education, Shenzhen, China and State Key Laboratory of Environmental and Biological Analysis, The Hong Kong Baptist University, Waterloo Rd, Kowloon, Hong Kong, China
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48
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Um T, Hong J, Im DJ, Lee SJ, Kang IS. Electrically Controllable Microparticle Synthesis and Digital Microfluidic Manipulation by Electric-Field-Induced Droplet Dispensing into Immiscible Fluids. Sci Rep 2016; 6:31901. [PMID: 27534580 PMCID: PMC4989170 DOI: 10.1038/srep31901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The dispensing of tiny droplets is a basic and crucial process in a myriad of applications, such as DNA/protein microarray, cell cultures, chemical synthesis of microparticles, and digital microfluidics. This work systematically demonstrates droplet dispensing into immiscible fluids through electric charge concentration (ECC) method. It exhibits three main modes (i.e., attaching, uniform, and bursting modes) as a function of flow rates, applied voltages, and gap distances between the nozzle and the oil surface. Through a conventional nozzle with diameter of a few millimeters, charged droplets with volumes ranging from a few μL to a few tens of nL can be uniformly dispensed into the oil chamber without reduction in nozzle size. Based on the features of the proposed method (e.g., formation of droplets with controllable polarity and amount of electric charge in water and oil system), a simple and straightforward method is developed for microparticle synthesis, including preparation of colloidosomes and fabrication of Janus microparticles with anisotropic internal structures. Finally, a combined system consisting of ECC-induced droplet dispensing and electrophoresis of charged droplet (ECD)-driven manipulation systems is constructed. This integrated platform will provide increased utility and flexibility in microfluidic applications because a charged droplet can be delivered toward the intended position by programmable electric control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taewoong Um
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31, Hyoja-Dong, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, South Korea
| | - Jiwoo Hong
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31, Hyoja-Dong, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, South Korea
| | - Do Jin Im
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pukyong National University, 365 Sinseon-ro, Nam-gu, Busan 48547, South Korea
| | - Sang Joon Lee
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31, Hyoja-Dong, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, South Korea
| | - In Seok Kang
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), San 31, Hyoja-Dong, Nam-Gu, Pohang, Gyeongbuk, 37673, South Korea
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49
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Yu Y, Shamsi MH, Krastev DL, Dryden MDM, Leung Y, Wheeler AR. A microfluidic method for dopamine uptake measurements in dopaminergic neurons. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:543-52. [PMID: 26725686 DOI: 10.1039/c5lc01515d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Dopamine (DA) is a classical neurotransmitter and dysfunction in its synaptic handling underlies many neurological disorders, including addiction, depression, and neurodegeneration. A key to understanding DA dysfunction is the accurate measurement of dopamine uptake by dopaminergic neurons. Current methods that allow for the analysis of dopamine uptake rely on standard multiwell-plate based ELISA, or on carbon-fibre microelectrodes used in in vivo recording techniques. The former suffers from challenges associated with automation and analyte degradation, while the latter has low throughput and is not ideal for laboratory screening. In response to these challenges, we introduce a digital microfluidic platform to evaluate dopamine homeostasis in in vitro neuron culture. The method features voltammetric dopamine sensors with limit of detection of 30 nM integrated with cell culture sites for multi-day neuron culture and differentiation. We demonstrate the utility of the new technique for DA uptake assays featuring in-line culture and analysis, with a determination of uptake of approximately ∼32 fmol in 10 min per virtual microwell (each containing ∼200 differentiated SH-SY5Y cells). We propose that future generations of this technique will be useful for drug discovery for neurodegenerative disease as well as for a wide range of applications that would benefit from integrated cell culture and electroanalysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Yu
- Institute for Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College St, Toronto, ON M5s 3G9, Canada. and Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, 160 College St., Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Mohtashim H Shamsi
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, 160 College St., Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada and Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St Georg St., Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Dimitar L Krastev
- Department of Human Biology, University of Toronto, 300 Huron Street, Toronto, ON M5S 3J6, Canada
| | - Michael D M Dryden
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, 80 St Georg St., Toronto, ON M5S 3H6, Canada
| | - Yen Leung
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, 160 College St., Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
| | - Aaron R Wheeler
- Institute for Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, 164 College St, Toronto, ON M5s 3G9, Canada. and Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, 160 College St., Toronto, ON M5S 3E1, Canada
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