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Dortaj H, Amani AM, Tayebi L, Azarpira N, Ghasemi Toudeshkchouei M, Hassanpour-Dehnavi A, Karami N, Abbasi M, Najafian-Najafabadi A, Zarei Behjani Z, Vaez A. Droplet-based microfluidics: an efficient high-throughput portable system for cell encapsulation. J Microencapsul 2024; 41:479-501. [PMID: 39077800 DOI: 10.1080/02652048.2024.2382744] [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: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024]
Abstract
One of the goals of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine is restoring primary living tissue function by manufacturing a 3D microenvironment. One of the main challenges is protecting implanted non-autologous cells or tissues from the host immune system. Cell encapsulation has emerged as a promising technique for this purpose. It involves entrapping cells in biocompatible and semi-permeable microcarriers made from natural or synthetic polymers that regulate the release of cellular secretions. In recent years, droplet-based microfluidic systems have emerged as powerful tools for cell encapsulation in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. These systems offer precise control over droplet size, composition, and functionality, allowing for creating of microenvironments that closely mimic native tissue. Droplet-based microfluidic systems have extensive applications in biotechnology, medical diagnosis, and drug discovery. This review summarises the recent developments in droplet-based microfluidic systems and cell encapsulation techniques, as well as their applications, advantages, and challenges in biology and medicine. The integration of these technologies has the potential to revolutionise tissue engineering and regenerative medicine by providing a precise and controlled microenvironment for cell growth and differentiation. By overcoming the immune system's challenges and enabling the release of cellular secretions, these technologies hold great promise for the future of regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengameh Dortaj
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ali Mohammad Amani
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Lobat Tayebi
- Marquette University School of Dentistry, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Negar Azarpira
- Transplant Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | | | - Ashraf Hassanpour-Dehnavi
- Tissue Engineering Lab, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Neda Karami
- Diagnostic Laboratory Sciences and Technology Research Center, School of Paramedical Sciences, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Milad Abbasi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Atefeh Najafian-Najafabadi
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Zarei Behjani
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Ahmad Vaez
- Department of Tissue Engineering and Applied Cell Sciences, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Biotechnology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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2
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Tian Z, Wang X, Chen J. On-chip dielectrophoretic single-cell manipulation. MICROSYSTEMS & NANOENGINEERING 2024; 10:117. [PMID: 39187499 PMCID: PMC11347631 DOI: 10.1038/s41378-024-00750-0] [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: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 07/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024]
Abstract
Bioanalysis at a single-cell level has yielded unparalleled insight into the heterogeneity of complex biological samples. Combined with Lab-on-a-Chip concepts, various simultaneous and high-frequency techniques and microfluidic platforms have led to the development of high-throughput platforms for single-cell analysis. Dielectrophoresis (DEP), an electrical approach based on the dielectric property of target cells, makes it possible to efficiently manipulate individual cells without labeling. This review focusses on the engineering designs of recent advanced microfluidic designs that utilize DEP techniques for multiple single-cell analyses. On-chip DEP is primarily effectuated by the induced dipole of dielectric particles, (i.e., cells) in a non-uniform electric field. In addition to simply capturing and releasing particles, DEP can also aid in more complex manipulations, such as rotation and moving along arbitrary predefined routes for numerous applications. Correspondingly, DEP electrodes can be designed with different patterns to achieve different geometric boundaries of the electric fields. Since many single-cell analyses require isolation and compartmentalization of individual cells, specific microstructures can also be incorporated into DEP devices. This article discusses common electrical and physical designs of single-cell DEP microfluidic devices as well as different categories of electrodes and microstructures. In addition, an up-to-date summary of achievements and challenges in current designs, together with prospects for future design direction, is provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuyuan Tian
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Xihua Wang
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1H9, Canada.
- Academy for Engineering & Technology, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, China.
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3
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Park C, Lim W, Song R, Han J, You D, Kim S, Lee JE, van Noort D, Mandenius CF, Lee J, Hyun KA, Jung HI, Park S. Efficient separation of large particles and giant cancer cells using an isosceles trapezoidal spiral microchannel. Analyst 2024; 149:4496-4505. [PMID: 39049608 DOI: 10.1039/d4an00750f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs) contribute to the genetic heterogeneity and evolutionary dynamics of tumors. Their size, however, complicates their isolation from mainstream tumor cell populations. Standard techniques like fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) rely on fluorescent labeling, introducing potential challenges in subsequent PGCC analyses. In response, we developed the Isosceles Trapezoidal Spiral Microchannel (ITSμC), a microfluidic device optimizing the Dean drag force (FD) and exploiting uniform vortices for enhanced separation. Numerical simulations highlighted ITSμC's advantage in producing robust FD compared to rectangular and standard trapezoidal channels. Empirical results confirmed its ability to segregate larger polystyrene (PS) particles (avg. diameter: 50 μm) toward the inner wall, while directing smaller ones (avg. diameter: 23 μm) outward. Utilizing ITSμC, we efficiently isolated PGCCs from doxorubicin-resistant triple-negative breast cancer (DOXR-TNBC) and patient-derived cancer (PDC) cells, achieving outstanding purity, yield, and viability rates (all greater than 90%). This precision was accomplished without fluorescent markers, and the versatility of ITSμC suggests its potential in differentiating a wide range of heterogeneous cell populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanyong Park
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea.
| | - Wanyoung Lim
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Ryungeun Song
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea.
| | - Jeonghun Han
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea.
| | - Daeun You
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Seoul 06355, Korea
| | - Sangmin Kim
- Department of Breast Cancer Center, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 06351, Korea
| | - Jeong Eon Lee
- Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Samsung Advanced Institute for Health Sciences & Technology (SAIHST), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Seoul 06355, Korea
- Division of Breast Surgery, Department of Surgery, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medi-cine, Seoul 06351, Korea
| | - Danny van Noort
- Division of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, Linköping 58183, Sweden
| | - Carl-Fredrik Mandenius
- Division of Biophysics and Bioengineering, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Biology (IFM), Linköping University, Linköping 58183, Sweden
| | - Jinkee Lee
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea.
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics (IQB), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea
| | - Kyung-A Hyun
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Hyo-Il Jung
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Yonsei University, Seoul 03722, Korea
| | - Sungsu Park
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea
- Department of Biophysics, Institute of Quantum Biophysics (IQB), Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU), Suwon 16419, Korea
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4
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Matsuura K, Hashioka S, Takata K. Sorting differentiated mammalian cells using deterministic lateral displacement microfluidic devices. ANAL SCI 2024:10.1007/s44211-024-00634-3. [PMID: 39060754 DOI: 10.1007/s44211-024-00634-3] [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: 05/13/2024] [Accepted: 07/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Separation of differentiated and undifferentiated cells without labeling is required for cell analyses and clinical application of cultured differentiated cells in vitro. To proceed with the passive separation of differentiated cells inside a clean bench, we developed a system of deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) microfluidic devices and applied this system to sort differentiated cells in vitro. The fluid flow is driven by compressed air to the buffer. Priming and sorting can be completed by air pressure control. We use this system to separate C2C12 mononuclear myocytes from multinuclear myotubes. Additionally, using a DLD microfluidic channel of Dc = 20 μm, multinuclear myotubes can be effectively sorted as larger particles. We prepared differentiated adipocytes from mouse embryonic fibroblast (MEF) cells and sorted those containing lipid droplets. The diameters of these sorted adipocytes considered larger particles, exceeded 20 μm, similar to the Dc of the DLD microfluidic channel. Differentiated cell sorting by cell size will contribute to single-cell analyses and in vitro tissue model preparation for drug discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Matsuura
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Life Science, Okayama University of Science, Okayama, Japan.
| | - Shingi Hashioka
- Medical & Life Science Studio, R&D Center, Zeon Corporation, Toyama, Japan
| | - Koji Takata
- Life Materials Development Section, Human Life Technology Research Institute, Toyama Industrial Technology Research and Development Center, Toyama, Japan
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5
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Ábrahám Á, Dér L, Csákvári E, Vizsnyiczai G, Pap I, Lukács R, Varga-Zsíros V, Nagy K, Galajda P. Single-cell level LasR-mediated quorum sensing response of Pseudomonas aeruginosa to pulses of signal molecules. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16181. [PMID: 39003361 PMCID: PMC11246452 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-66706-6] [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: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Quorum sensing (QS) is a communication form between bacteria via small signal molecules that enables global gene regulation as a function of cell density. We applied a microfluidic mother machine to study the kinetics of the QS response of Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria to additions and withdrawals of signal molecules. We traced the fast buildup and the subsequent considerably slower decay of a population-level and single-cell-level QS response. We applied a mathematical model to explain the results quantitatively. We found significant heterogeneity in QS on the single-cell level, which may result from variations in quorum-controlled gene expression and protein degradation. Heterogeneity correlates with cell lineage history, too. We used single-cell data to define and quantitatively characterize the population-level quorum state. We found that the population-level QS response is well-defined. The buildup of the quorum is fast upon signal molecule addition. At the same time, its decay is much slower following signal withdrawal, and the quorum may be maintained for several hours in the absence of the signal. Furthermore, the quorum sensing response of the population was largely repeatable in subsequent pulses of signal molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ágnes Ábrahám
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Multidisciplinary Medical Sciences, University of Szeged, Dóm Tér 9, Szeged, 6720, Hungary
| | - László Dér
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Eszter Csákvári
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary
- Division for Biotechnology, Bay Zoltán Nonprofit Ltd. for Applied Research, Derkovits Fasor 2., Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Gaszton Vizsnyiczai
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Imre Pap
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary
- Doctoral School of Multidisciplinary Medical Sciences, University of Szeged, Dóm Tér 9, Szeged, 6720, Hungary
| | - Rebeka Lukács
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Vanda Varga-Zsíros
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biochemistry, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary
| | - Krisztina Nagy
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary.
| | - Péter Galajda
- HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Institute of Biophysics, Temesvári Krt. 62, Szeged, 6726, Hungary.
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6
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Li SS, Xue CD, Li YJ, Chen XM, Zhao Y, Qin KR. Microfluidic characterization of single-cell biophysical properties and the applications in cancer diagnosis. Electrophoresis 2024; 45:1212-1232. [PMID: 37909658 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/03/2023]
Abstract
Single-cell biophysical properties play a crucial role in regulating cellular physiological states and functions, demonstrating significant potential in the fields of life sciences and clinical diagnostics. Therefore, over the last few decades, researchers have developed various detection tools to explore the relationship between the biophysical changes of biological cells and human diseases. With the rapid advancement of modern microfabrication technology, microfluidic devices have quickly emerged as a promising platform for single-cell analysis offering advantages including high-throughput, exceptional precision, and ease of manipulation. Consequently, this paper provides an overview of the recent advances in microfluidic analysis and detection systems for single-cell biophysical properties and their applications in the field of cancer. The working principles and latest research progress of single-cell biophysical property detection are first analyzed, highlighting the significance of electrical and mechanical properties. The development of data acquisition and processing methods for real-time, high-throughput, and practical applications are then discussed. Furthermore, the differences in biophysical properties between tumor and normal cells are outlined, illustrating the potential for utilizing single-cell biophysical properties for tumor cell identification, classification, and drug response assessment. Lastly, we summarize the limitations of existing microfluidic analysis and detection systems in single-cell biophysical properties, while also pointing out the prospects and future directions of their applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shan-Shan Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Chun-Dong Xue
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Yong-Jiang Li
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Xiao-Ming Chen
- School of Optoelectronic Engineering and Instrumentation Science, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Yan Zhao
- Department of Stomach Surgery, Cancer Hospital of Dalian University of Technology, Liaoning Cancer Hospital and Institute, Shenyang, Liaoning, P. R. China
| | - Kai-Rong Qin
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Dalian University of Technology, Dalian, Liaoning, P. R. China
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7
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Liu YC, Ansaryan S, Tan J, Broguiere N, Lorenzo-Martín LF, Homicsko K, Coukos G, Lütolf MP, Altug H. Nanoplasmonic Single-Tumoroid Microarray for Real-Time Secretion Analysis. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024:e2401539. [PMID: 38924371 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202401539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Organoid tumor models have emerged as a powerful tool in the fields of biology and medicine as such 3D structures grown from tumor cells recapitulate better tumor characteristics, making these tumoroids unique for personalized cancer research. Assessment of their functional behavior, particularly protein secretion, is of significant importance to provide comprehensive insights. Here, a label-free spectroscopic imaging platform is presented with advanced integrated optofluidic nanoplasmonic biosensor that enables real-time secretion analysis from single tumoroids. A novel two-layer microwell design isolates tumoroids, preventing signal interference, and the microarray configuration allows concurrent analysis of multiple tumoroids. The dual imaging capability combining time-lapse plasmonic spectroscopy and bright-field microscopy facilitates simultaneous observation of secretion dynamics, motility, and morphology. The integrated biosensor is demonstrated with colorectal tumoroids derived from both cell lines and patient samples to investigate their vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) secretion, growth, and movement under various conditions, including normoxia, hypoxia, and drug treatment. This platform, by offering a label-free approach with nanophotonics to monitor tumoroids, can pave the way for new applications in fundamental biological studies, drug screening, and the development of therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen-Cheng Liu
- Bionanophotonic Systems Laboratory, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Saeid Ansaryan
- Bionanophotonic Systems Laboratory, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Jiayi Tan
- Bionanophotonic Systems Laboratory, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Nicolas Broguiere
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences and School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Luis Francisco Lorenzo-Martín
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences and School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Krisztian Homicsko
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Rue du Bugnon 46, Lausanne, 1005, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Ludwig Lausanne Branch, Chem. des Boveresses 155, Epalinges, 1066, Switzerland
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman, Rue du Bugnon 25A, Lausanne, 1011, Switzerland
- Agora Translational Research Center, Rue du Bugnon 25A, Lausanne, 1011, Switzerland
| | - George Coukos
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Rue du Bugnon 46, Lausanne, 1005, Switzerland
- Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Ludwig Lausanne Branch, Chem. des Boveresses 155, Epalinges, 1066, Switzerland
- Swiss Cancer Center Leman, Rue du Bugnon 25A, Lausanne, 1011, Switzerland
- Agora Translational Research Center, Rue du Bugnon 25A, Lausanne, 1011, Switzerland
| | - Matthias P Lütolf
- Laboratory of Stem Cell Bioengineering, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Life Sciences and School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
| | - Hatice Altug
- Bionanophotonic Systems Laboratory, Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, 1015, Switzerland
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8
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Sun Y, Liu Y, Sun D, Liu K, Li Y, Liu Y, Zhang S. A facile single-cell patterning strategy based on harbor-like microwell microfluidics. Biomed Mater 2024; 19:045018. [PMID: 38772387 DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ad4e83] [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: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Single-cell analysis is an effective method for conducting comprehensive heterogeneity studies ranging from cell phenotype to gene expression. The ability to arrange different cells in a predetermined pattern at single-cell resolution has a wide range of applications in cell-based analysis and plays an important role in facilitating interdisciplinary research by researchers in various fields. Most existing microfluidic microwell chips is a simple and straightforward method, which typically use small-sized microwells to accommodate single cells. However, this method imposes certain limitations on cells of various sizes, and the single-cell capture efficiency is relatively low without the assistance of external forces. Moreover, the microwells limit the spatiotemporal resolution of reagent replacement, as well as cell-to-cell communication. In this study, we propose a new strategy to prepare a single-cell array on a planar microchannel based on microfluidic flip microwells chip platform with large apertures (50 μm), shallow channels (50 μm), and deep microwells (50 μm). The combination of three configuration characteristics contributes to multi-cell trapping and a single-cell array within microwells, while the subsequent chip flipping accomplishes the transfer of the single-cell array to the opposite planar microchannel for cells adherence and growth. Further assisted by protein coating of bovine serum albumin and fibronectin on different layers, the single-cell capture efficiency in microwells is achieved at 92.1% ± 1%, while ultimately 85% ± 3.4% on planar microchannel. To verify the microfluidic flip microwells chip platform, the real-time and heterogeneous study of calcium release and apoptosis behaviours of single cells is carried out. To our knowledge, this is the first time that high-efficiency single-cell acquisition has been accomplished using a circular-well chip design that combines shallow channel, large aperture and deep microwell together. The chip is effective in avoiding the shearing force of high flow rates on cells, and the large apertures better allows cells to sedimentation. Therefore, this strategy owns the advantages of easy preparation and user-friendliness, which is especially valuable for researchers from different fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yingnan Sun
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Detection Technology for Tumor Makers, School of Medicine, Linyi University, Linyi 276005, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongshu Liu
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Detection Technology for Tumor Makers, School of Medicine, Linyi University, Linyi 276005, People's Republic of China
| | - Dezhi Sun
- Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Signal Detection and Processing, School of Computer Science and Technology, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830046, People's Republic of China
| | - Kexin Liu
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Detection Technology for Tumor Makers, School of Medicine, Linyi University, Linyi 276005, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuyan Li
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Detection Technology for Tumor Makers, School of Medicine, Linyi University, Linyi 276005, People's Republic of China
| | - Yumin Liu
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Detection Technology for Tumor Makers, School of Medicine, Linyi University, Linyi 276005, People's Republic of China
| | - Shusheng Zhang
- Shandong Province Key Laboratory of Detection Technology for Tumor Makers, School of Medicine, Linyi University, Linyi 276005, People's Republic of China
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9
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von Gerichten J, Saunders KDG, Kontiza A, Newman CF, Mayson G, Beste DJV, Velliou E, Whetton AD, Bailey MJ. Single-Cell Untargeted Lipidomics Using Liquid Chromatography and Data-Dependent Acquisition after Live Cell Selection. Anal Chem 2024; 96:6922-6929. [PMID: 38653330 PMCID: PMC11079853 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
We report the development and validation of an untargeted single-cell lipidomics method based on microflow chromatography coupled to a data-dependent mass spectrometry method for fragmentation-based identification of lipids. Given the absence of single-cell lipid standards, we show how the methodology should be optimized and validated using a dilute cell extract. The methodology is applied to dilute pancreatic cancer and macrophage cell extracts and standards to demonstrate the sensitivity requirements for confident assignment of lipids and classification of the cell type at the single-cell level. The method is then coupled to a system that can provide automated sampling of live, single cells into capillaries under microscope observation. This workflow retains the spatial information and morphology of cells during sampling and highlights the heterogeneity in lipid profiles observed at the single-cell level. The workflow is applied to show changes in single-cell lipid profiles as a response to oxidative stress, coinciding with expanded lipid droplets. This demonstrates that the workflow is sufficiently sensitive to observing changes in lipid profiles in response to a biological stimulus. Understanding how lipids vary in single cells will inform future research into a multitude of biological processes as lipids play important roles in structural, biophysical, energy storage, and signaling functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna von Gerichten
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and
Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7XH Guildford, U.K.
| | - Kyle D. G. Saunders
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and
Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7XH Guildford, U.K.
| | - Anastasia Kontiza
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and
Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7XH Guildford, U.K.
| | - Carla F. Newman
- Cellular
Imaging and Dynamics, GlaxoSmithKline, Stevenage SG1 2NY, U.K.
| | - George Mayson
- School
of Bioscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7XH Guildford, U.K.
| | - Dany J. V. Beste
- School
of Bioscience, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7XH Guildford, U.K.
| | - Eirini Velliou
- Centre
for 3D Models of Health and Disease, University
College London, Division of Surgery and Interventional Science, London W1W 7TY, U.K.
| | - Anthony D. Whetton
- vHive,
School of Veterinary Medicine, School of Biosciences and Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, U.K.
| | - Melanie J. Bailey
- School
of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and
Physical Sciences, University of Surrey, GU2 7XH Guildford, U.K.
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10
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Shen F, Gao J, Zhang J, Ai M, Gao H, Liu Z. Vortex sorting of rare particles/cells in microcavities: A review. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2024; 18:021504. [PMID: 38571909 PMCID: PMC10987199 DOI: 10.1063/5.0174938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidics or lab-on-a-chip technology has shown great potential for the separation of target particles/cells from heterogeneous solutions. Among current separation methods, vortex sorting of particles/cells in microcavities is a highly effective method for trapping and isolating rare target cells, such as circulating tumor cells, from flowing samples. By utilizing fluid forces and inertial particle effects, this passive method offers advantages such as label-free operation, high throughput, and high concentration. This paper reviews the fundamental research on the mechanisms of focusing, trapping, and holding of particles in this method, designs of novel microcavities, as well as its applications. We also summarize the challenges and prospects of this technique with the hope to promote its applications in medical and biological research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Shen
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
| | - Jie Gao
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Zhang
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, People’s Republic of China
| | - Mingzhu Ai
- School of Mathematics, Statistics and Mechanics, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongkai Gao
- Department of General Surgery, First Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100853, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zhaomiao Liu
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed: and
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11
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Matsuura K. Editorial for the Special Issue on Microfluidic Device Fabrication and Cell Manipulation. MICROMACHINES 2024; 15:120. [PMID: 38258239 PMCID: PMC10819160 DOI: 10.3390/mi15010120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidic devices have been utilized for separation sciences, environmental sciences, food processing, drug delivery, bioimaging, diagnostics, and cell cultures [...].
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Matsuura
- Department of Biosciences, Faculty of Life Science, Okayama University of Science, Okayama 700-0005, Japan
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12
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Zhang D, Qiao L. Microfluidics Coupled Mass Spectrometry for Single Cell Multi-Omics. SMALL METHODS 2024; 8:e2301179. [PMID: 37840412 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
Population-level analysis masks significant heterogeneity between individual cells, making it difficult to accurately reflect the true intricacies of life activities. Microfluidics is a technique that can manipulate individual cells effectively and is commonly coupled with a variety of analytical methods for single-cell analysis. Single-cell omics provides abundant molecular information at the single-cell level, fundamentally revealing differences in cell types and biological states among cell individuals, leading to a deeper understanding of cellular phenotypes and life activities. Herein, this work summarizes the microfluidic chips designed for single-cell isolation, manipulation, trapping, screening, and sorting, including droplet microfluidic chips, microwell arrays, hydrodynamic microfluidic chips, and microchips with microvalves. This work further reviews the studies on single-cell proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, and multi-omics based on microfluidics and mass spectrometry. Finally, the challenges and future application of single-cell multi-omics are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dongxue Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 20000, China
| | - Liang Qiao
- Department of Chemistry, Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, and Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 20000, China
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13
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Safaefar F, Karamdel J, Veladi H, Maleki M. Design and implementation of a lab-on-a-chip for assisted reproductive technologies. BIOIMPACTS : BI 2023; 14:28902. [PMID: 39104621 PMCID: PMC11298026 DOI: 10.34172/bi.2023.28902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Introduction The microfluidic device is highly optimized to remove oocytes from the cumulus-corona cell mass surrounding them. Additionally, it effectively captures and immobilizes the oocytes, aiding in assessing their quality and facilitating the injection of sperm into the oocyte. In this study, a novel microfluidic chip was designed and manufactured using conventional soft lithography methods. Methods This research proposes the utilization of a microfluidic chip as a substitute for the conventional manual procedures involved in oocyte denudation, trapping, and immobilization. The microfluidic chip was modeled and simulated using COMSOL Multiphysics® 5.2 software to optimize and enhance its design and performance. The microfluidic chip was fabricated using conventional injection molding techniques on a polydimethylsiloxane substrate by employing soft lithography methods. Results A hydrostatic force was applied to guide the oocyte through predetermined pathways to eliminate the cumulus cells surrounding the oocyte. The oocyte was subsequently confined within the designated trap region by utilizing hydraulic resistance along the paths and immobilized by applying vacuum force. Conclusion The application of this chip necessitates a lower level of operator expertise compared to enzymatic and mechanical techniques. Moreover, it is feasible to continuously monitor the oocyte's state throughout the procedure. There is a reduced need for cultural media compared to more standard approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Firooz Safaefar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Technical and Engineering, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Karamdel
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Technical and Engineering, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hadi Veladi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Technical and Engineering, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Microsystem Fabrication Laboratory, Faculty of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Masoud Maleki
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Technical and Engineering, South Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
- Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch, Tabriz, Iran
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14
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Saffar Y, Kashanj S, Nobes DS, Sabbagh R. The Physics and Manipulation of Dean Vortices in Single- and Two-Phase Flow in Curved Microchannels: A Review. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:2202. [PMID: 38138371 PMCID: PMC10745399 DOI: 10.3390/mi14122202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Microchannels with curved geometries have been employed for many applications in microfluidic devices in the past decades. The Dean vortices generated in such geometries have been manipulated using different methods to enhance the performance of devices in applications such as mixing, droplet sorting, and particle/cell separation. Understanding the effect of the manipulation method on the Dean vortices in different geometries can provide crucial information to be employed in designing high-efficiency microfluidic devices. In this review, the physics of Dean vortices and the affecting parameters are summarized. Various Dean number calculation methods are collected and represented to minimize the misinterpretation of published information due to the lack of a unified defining formula for the Dean dimensionless number. Consequently, all Dean number values reported in the references are recalculated to the most common method to facilitate comprehension of the phenomena. Based on the converted information gathered from previous numerical and experimental studies, it is concluded that the length of the channel and the channel pathline, e.g., spiral, serpentine, or helix, also affect the flow state. This review also provides a detailed summery on the effect of other geometric parameters, such as cross-section shape, aspect ratio, and radius of curvature, on the Dean vortices' number and arrangement. Finally, considering the importance of droplet microfluidics, the effect of curved geometry on the shape, trajectory, and internal flow organization of the droplets passing through a curved channel has been reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Reza Sabbagh
- Mechanical Engineering Department, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; (Y.S.); (S.K.); (D.S.N.)
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15
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Wevers D, Ramautar R, Clark C, Hankemeier T, Ali A. Opportunities and challenges for sample preparation and enrichment in mass spectrometry for single-cell metabolomics. Electrophoresis 2023; 44:2000-2024. [PMID: 37667867 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300105] [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: 05/11/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Single-cell heterogeneity in metabolism, drug resistance and disease type poses the need for analytical techniques for single-cell analysis. As the metabolome provides the closest view of the status quo in the cell, studying the metabolome at single-cell resolution may unravel said heterogeneity. A challenge in single-cell metabolome analysis is that metabolites cannot be amplified, so one needs to deal with picolitre volumes and a wide range of analyte concentrations. Due to high sensitivity and resolution, MS is preferred in single-cell metabolomics. Large numbers of cells need to be analysed for proper statistics; this requires high-throughput analysis, and hence automation of the analytical workflow. Significant advances in (micro)sampling methods, CE and ion mobility spectrometry have been made, some of which have been applied in high-throughput analyses. Microfluidics has enabled an automation of cell picking and metabolite extraction; image recognition has enabled automated cell identification. Many techniques have been used for data analysis, varying from conventional techniques to novel combinations of advanced chemometric approaches. Steps have been set in making data more findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable, but significant opportunities for improvement remain. Herein, advances in single-cell analysis workflows and data analysis are discussed, and recommendations are made based on the experimental goal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dirk Wevers
- Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Metabolomics and Analytics Centre, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Rawi Ramautar
- Metabolomics and Analytics Centre, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Charlie Clark
- Metabolomics and Analytics Centre, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas Hankemeier
- Metabolomics and Analytics Centre, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ahmed Ali
- Metabolomics and Analytics Centre, Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research, Leiden, The Netherlands
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16
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Zhang H, Wang P, Huang N, Zhao L, Su Y, Li L, Bian S, Sawan M. Single neurons on microelectrode array chip: manipulation and analyses. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1258626. [PMID: 37829565 PMCID: PMC10565505 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1258626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Chips-based platforms intended for single-cell manipulation are considered powerful tools to analyze intercellular interactions and cellular functions. Although the conventional cell co-culture models could investigate cell communication to some extent, the role of a single cell requires further analysis. In this study, a precise intercellular interaction model was built using a microelectrode array [microelectrode array (MEA)]-based and dielectrophoresis-driven single-cell manipulation chip. The integrated platform enabled precise manipulation of single cells, which were either trapped on or transferred between electrodes. Each electrode was controlled independently to record the corresponding cellular electrophysiology. Multiple parameters were explored to investigate their effects on cell manipulation including the diameter and depth of microwells, the geometry of cells, and the voltage amplitude of the control signal. Under the optimized microenvironment, the chip was further evaluated using 293T and neural cells to investigate the influence of electric field on cells. An examination of the inappropriate use of electric fields on cells revealed the occurrence of oncosis. In the end of the study, electrophysiology of single neurons and network of neurons, both differentiated from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC), was recorded and compared to demonstrate the functionality of the chip. The obtained preliminary results extended the nature growing model to the controllable level, satisfying the expectation of introducing more elaborated intercellular interaction models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hongyong Zhang
- Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
- Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Pengbo Wang
- Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Nan Huang
- School of Life Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Lingrui Zhao
- School of Life Science, Westlake University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Su
- Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Lingfei Li
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Sumin Bian
- Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Mohamad Sawan
- Research Center for Industries of the Future, Westlake University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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17
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Zhu W, Wang J, Luo H, Luo B, Li X, Liu S, Li C. Electrical Characterization and Analysis of Single Cells and Related Applications. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:907. [PMID: 37887100 PMCID: PMC10605054 DOI: 10.3390/bios13100907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Biological parameters extracted from electrical signals from various body parts have been used for many years to analyze the human body and its behavior. In addition, electrical signals from cancer cell lines, normal cells, and viruses, among others, have been widely used for the detection of various diseases. Single-cell parameters such as cell and cytoplasmic conductivity, relaxation frequency, and membrane capacitance are important. There are many techniques available to characterize biomaterials, such as nanotechnology, microstrip cavity resonance measurement, etc. This article reviews single-cell isolation and sorting techniques, such as the micropipette separation method, separation and sorting system (dual electrophoretic array system), DEPArray sorting system (dielectrophoretic array system), cell selector sorting system, and microfluidic and valve devices, and discusses their respective advantages and disadvantages. Furthermore, it summarizes common single-cell electrical manipulations, such as single-cell amperometry (SCA), electrical impedance sensing (EIS), impedance flow cytometry (IFC), cell-based electrical impedance (CEI), microelectromechanical systems (MEMS), and integrated microelectrode array (IMA). The article also enumerates the application and significance of single-cell electrochemical analysis from the perspectives of CTC liquid biopsy, recombinant adenovirus, tumor cells like lung cancer DTCs (LC-DTCs), and single-cell metabolomics analysis. The paper concludes with a discussion of the current limitations faced by single-cell analysis techniques along with future directions and potential application scenarios.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weitao Zhu
- Clinical Medicine (Eight-Year Program), West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (W.Z.); (J.W.)
| | - Jiaao Wang
- Clinical Medicine (Eight-Year Program), West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610044, China; (W.Z.); (J.W.)
| | - Hongzhi Luo
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University (The First People’s Hospital of Zunyi), Zunyi 563002, China;
| | - Binwen Luo
- School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610054, China;
| | - Xue Li
- Sichuan Hanyuan County People’s Hospital, Hanyuan 625300, China;
| | - Shan Liu
- Sichuan Provincial Key Laboratory for Human Disease Gene Study, Department of Medical Genetics, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People’s Hospital, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Chenzhong Li
- Biomedical Engineering, School of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen 518172, China;
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18
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Gimondi S, Ferreira H, Reis RL, Neves NM. Microfluidic Devices: A Tool for Nanoparticle Synthesis and Performance Evaluation. ACS NANO 2023; 17:14205-14228. [PMID: 37498731 PMCID: PMC10416572 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c01117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The use of nanoparticles (NPs) in nanomedicine holds great promise for the treatment of diseases for which conventional therapies present serious limitations. Additionally, NPs can drastically improve early diagnosis and follow-up of many disorders. However, to harness their full capabilities, they must be precisely designed, produced, and tested in relevant models. Microfluidic systems can simulate dynamic fluid flows, gradients, specific microenvironments, and multiorgan complexes, providing an efficient and cost-effective approach for both NPs synthesis and screening. Microfluidic technologies allow for the synthesis of NPs under controlled conditions, enhancing batch-to-batch reproducibility. Moreover, due to the versatility of microfluidic devices, it is possible to generate and customize endless platforms for rapid and efficient in vitro and in vivo screening of NPs' performance. Indeed, microfluidic devices show great potential as advanced systems for small organism manipulation and immobilization. In this review, first we summarize the major microfluidic platforms that allow for controlled NPs synthesis. Next, we will discuss the most innovative microfluidic platforms that enable mimicking in vitro environments as well as give insights into organism-on-a-chip and their promising application for NPs screening. We conclude this review with a critical assessment of the current challenges and possible future directions of microfluidic systems in NPs synthesis and screening to impact the field of nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Gimondi
- 3B’s
Research Group, I3Bs − Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters
of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque
de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s−PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Helena Ferreira
- 3B’s
Research Group, I3Bs − Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters
of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque
de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s−PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Rui L. Reis
- 3B’s
Research Group, I3Bs − Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters
of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque
de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s−PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Nuno M. Neves
- 3B’s
Research Group, I3Bs − Research Institute on Biomaterials, Biodegradables and Biomimetics, University of Minho, Headquarters
of the European Institute of Excellence on Tissue Engineering and
Regenerative Medicine, AvePark, Parque
de Ciência e Tecnologia, Zona Industrial da Gandra, 4805-017 Barco, Guimarães, Portugal
- ICVS/3B’s−PT
Government Associate Laboratory, 4805-017 Braga, Guimarães, Portugal
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19
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Lefevre A, Gauthier M, Bourgeois P, Frelet-Barrand A, Bolopion A. Automatic trajectory control of single cells using dielectrophoresis based on visual feedback. LAB ON A CHIP 2023. [PMID: 37470089 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00318c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/21/2023]
Abstract
This paper deals with the automatic control of the trajectory of T-lymphocytes using dielectrophoretic (DEP) actuation. Dielectrophoresis is a physical phenomenon induced by a non-uniform electric field enabling application of a force on a dielectric object. In most of the cases, it is used in a passive way. The electric field is in a steady state and the force applied on the cells depends on the cell's characteristics and position inside the channel. These systems are limited as cells with similar characteristics will undergo the same forces. To overcome this issue, active devices where the electric field changes over time were developed. However, the voltages that should be applied to generate the desired electric field are mostly computed offline using finite element methods. Thus, there is a low number of devices using automatic approaches with dielectrophoretic actuation where the electric field is computed and updated in real time based on the current position of the cell. We propose here an experimental bench used to study the automatic trajectory control of cells by dielectrophoresis. The computation of the dielectrophoretic force is done online with a model based on the Fourier series depending on the cell's characteristics, position and electric field. This model allows the use of a controller based on visual feedback running at 120 Hz to control the position of cells inside a microfluidic chip. As cells are sensitive to the electric field, the controller limits the norm of the electric field while maximizing the gradient to maximize the DEP force. Experiments have been performed and T-lymphocytes were successfully steered along several types of trajectories at a speed of five times their size per second. The mean error along those trajectories is below 2 μm. The viability of the cells has been checked after the experiments and confirms that this active DEP actuation does not harm the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Lefevre
- Université de FrancheComté, CNRS, SUPMICROTECH, Institute FEMTO-ST, F25000 Besançon, France.
| | - Michaël Gauthier
- Université de FrancheComté, CNRS, SUPMICROTECH, Institute FEMTO-ST, F25000 Besançon, France.
| | - Pauline Bourgeois
- Université de FrancheComté, CNRS, SUPMICROTECH, Institute FEMTO-ST, F25000 Besançon, France.
| | - Annie Frelet-Barrand
- Université de FrancheComté, CNRS, SUPMICROTECH, Institute FEMTO-ST, F25000 Besançon, France.
| | - Aude Bolopion
- Université de FrancheComté, CNRS, SUPMICROTECH, Institute FEMTO-ST, F25000 Besançon, France.
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20
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Ferguson C, Zhang Y, Palego C, Cheng X. Recent Approaches to Design and Analysis of Electrical Impedance Systems for Single Cells Using Machine Learning. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:5990. [PMID: 37447838 DOI: 10.3390/s23135990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/17/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Individual cells have many unique properties that can be quantified to develop a holistic understanding of a population. This can include understanding population characteristics, identifying subpopulations, or elucidating outlier characteristics that may be indicators of disease. Electrical impedance measurements are rapid and label-free for the monitoring of single cells and generate large datasets of many cells at single or multiple frequencies. To increase the accuracy and sensitivity of measurements and define the relationships between impedance and biological features, many electrical measurement systems have incorporated machine learning (ML) paradigms for control and analysis. Considering the difficulty capturing complex relationships using traditional modelling and statistical methods due to population heterogeneity, ML offers an exciting approach to the systemic collection and analysis of electrical properties in a data-driven way. In this work, we discuss incorporation of ML to improve the field of electrical single cell analysis by addressing the design challenges to manipulate single cells and sophisticated analysis of electrical properties that distinguish cellular changes. Looking forward, we emphasize the opportunity to build on integrated systems to address common challenges in data quality and generalizability to save time and resources at every step in electrical measurement of single cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Ferguson
- Department of Bioengineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Bioengineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
| | - Cristiano Palego
- Department of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, Bangor University, Bangor LL57 2DG, UK
| | - Xuanhong Cheng
- Department of Bioengineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Lehigh University, Bethlehem, PA 18015, USA
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21
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Jin J, Yu S, Lu P, Cao P. Deciphering plant cell-cell communications using single-cell omics data. Comput Struct Biotechnol J 2023; 21:3690-3695. [PMID: 37576747 PMCID: PMC10412842 DOI: 10.1016/j.csbj.2023.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 06/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Plants have various cell types that respond to different environmental factors, and cell-cell communication is the fundamental process that controls these plant responses. The emergence of single-cell techniques provides opportunities to explore features unique to each cell type and construct a comprehensive cell-cell communication (CCC) network. Although the most current successes of CCC inference were achieved in animal research, computational methods can also be directly applied to plants. This review describes the current major models for cell-cell communication inference and summarizes the computational tools based on single-cell omics datasets. In addition, we discuss the limitations of plant cell-cell communication research and propose new directions to expand the field in meaningful ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingjing Jin
- China Tobacco Gene Research Center, Zhengzhou Tobacco Research Institute of CNTC, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Shizhou Yu
- Molecular Genetics Key Laboratory of China Tobacco, Guizhou Academy of Tobacco Science, Guiyang 550081, China
| | - Peng Lu
- China Tobacco Gene Research Center, Zhengzhou Tobacco Research Institute of CNTC, Zhengzhou 450001, China
| | - Peijian Cao
- China Tobacco Gene Research Center, Zhengzhou Tobacco Research Institute of CNTC, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- School of Agricultural Sciences, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou 450001, China
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22
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Farahinia A, Zhang W, Badea I. Recent Developments in Inertial and Centrifugal Microfluidic Systems along with the Involved Forces for Cancer Cell Separation: A Review. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 23:s23115300. [PMID: 37300027 DOI: 10.3390/s23115300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The treatment of cancers is a significant challenge in the healthcare context today. Spreading circulating tumor cells (CTCs) throughout the body will eventually lead to cancer metastasis and produce new tumors near the healthy tissues. Therefore, separating these invading cells and extracting cues from them is extremely important for determining the rate of cancer progression inside the body and for the development of individualized treatments, especially at the beginning of the metastasis process. The continuous and fast separation of CTCs has recently been achieved using numerous separation techniques, some of which involve multiple high-level operational protocols. Although a simple blood test can detect the presence of CTCs in the blood circulation system, the detection is still restricted due to the scarcity and heterogeneity of CTCs. The development of more reliable and effective techniques is thus highly desired. The technology of microfluidic devices is promising among many other bio-chemical and bio-physical technologies. This paper reviews recent developments in the two types of microfluidic devices, which are based on the size and/or density of cells, for separating cancer cells. The goal of this review is to identify knowledge or technology gaps and to suggest future works.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Farahinia
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Wenjun Zhang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada
| | - Ildiko Badea
- College of Pharmacy and Nutrition, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5E5, Canada
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23
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Horade M, Okumura R, Yamawaki T, Yashima M, Murakami S, Saiki T. Particle Size-Dependent Component Separation Using Serially Arrayed Micro-Chambers. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:mi14050919. [PMID: 37241544 DOI: 10.3390/mi14050919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2023] [Revised: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to enable component separation based on simple control of the flow rate. We investigated a method that eliminated the need for a centrifuge and enabled easy component separation on the spot without using a battery. Specifically, we adopted an approach that uses microfluidic devices, which are inexpensive and highly portable, and devised the channel within the fluidic device. The proposed design was a simple series of connection chambers of the same shape, connected via interconnecting channels. In this study, polystyrene particles with different sizes were used, and their behavior was evaluated by experimentally observing the flow in the chamber using a high-speed camera. It was found that the objects with larger particle diameters required more time to pass, whereas the objects with smaller particle diameters flowed in a short time; this implied that the particles with a smaller size could be extracted more rapidly from the outlet. By plotting the trajectories of the particles for each unit of time, the passing speed of the objects with large particle diameters was confirmed to be particularly low. It was also possible to trap the particles within the chamber if the flow rate was below a specific threshold. By applying this property to blood, for instance, we expected plasma components and red blood cells to be extracted first.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuhiro Horade
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, National Defense Academy of Japan, 1-10-20 Hashirimizu, Yokosuka 239-8686, Japan
| | - Ryuusei Okumura
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, National Defense Academy of Japan, 1-10-20 Hashirimizu, Yokosuka 239-8686, Japan
| | - Tasuku Yamawaki
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, National Defense Academy of Japan, 1-10-20 Hashirimizu, Yokosuka 239-8686, Japan
| | - Masahito Yashima
- Department of Mechanical Systems Engineering, National Defense Academy of Japan, 1-10-20 Hashirimizu, Yokosuka 239-8686, Japan
| | - Shuichi Murakami
- Osaka Research Institute of Industrial Science and Technology, 2-7-1 Ayumino, Izumi 594-1157, Japan
| | - Tsunemasa Saiki
- Hyogo Prefectural Institute of Technology, 3-1-12 Yukihira, Suma, Kobe 654-0037, Japan
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24
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Liu X, Zhu Y, Li C, Fang Y, Chen J, Xu F, Lu Y, Shum PP, Liu Y, Wang G. Single-cell HER2 quantification via instant signal amplification in microdroplets. Anal Chim Acta 2023; 1251:340976. [PMID: 36925278 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2023.340976] [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: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
Abstract
Accurate and ultrasensitive evaluation of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) protein is key to early diagnosis and subtype differentiation of breast cancer. Single-cell analyses to reduce ineffective targeted therapies due to breast cancer heterogeneity and improve patient survival remain challenging. Herein, we reported a novel droplet microfluidic combined with an instant cation exchange signal amplification strategy for quantitative analysis of HER2 protein expression on single cells. In the 160 μm droplets produced by a tapered capillary bundle, abundant Immuno-CdS labeled on HER2-positive cells were replaced by Ag + to obtain Cd2+ that stimulated Rhod-5N fluorescence. This uniformly distributed and instantaneous fluorescence amplification strategy in droplets improves sensitivity and reduces signal fluctuation. Using HER2 modified PS microsphere to simulate single cells, we obtained a linear fitting of HER2-modified concentration and fluorescence intensity in microdroplets with the limit detection of 11.372 pg mL-1. Moreover, the relative standard deviation (RSD) was 4.2-fold lower than the traditional immunofluorescence technique (2.89% vs 12.21%). The HER2 protein on SK-BR-3 cells encapsulated in droplets was subsequently quantified, ranging from 9862.954 pg mL-1 and 205.26 pg mL-1, equivalent to 9.795 × 106 and 2.038 × 105 protein molecules. This detection system provides a universal platform for single-cell sensitive quantitative analysis and contributes to the evaluation of HER2-positive tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxian Liu
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210093, China; Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Integration of the Ministry of Education, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210009, China
| | - Yifan Zhu
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210093, China; Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Integration of the Ministry of Education, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210009, China
| | - Caoxin Li
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210093, China; Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Integration of the Ministry of Education, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210009, China
| | - Yanyun Fang
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210093, China
| | - Jinna Chen
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineer, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Fei Xu
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210093, China
| | - Yanqing Lu
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210093, China
| | - Perry Ping Shum
- Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineer, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen, 518055, China
| | - Ying Liu
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210093, China.
| | - Guanghui Wang
- College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210093, China; Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Integration of the Ministry of Education, Nanjing University, Jiangsu, 210009, China.
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25
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Shan Y, Guo Y, Jiao W, Zeng P. Single-Cell Techniques in Environmental Microbiology. Processes (Basel) 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/pr11041109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Environmental microbiology has been an essential part of environmental research because it provides effective solutions to most pollutants. Hence, there is an interest in investigating microorganism behavior, such as observation, identification, isolation of pollutant degraders, and interactions between microbial species. To comprehensively understand cell heterogeneity, diverse approaches at the single-cell level are demanded. Thus far, the traditional bulk biological tools such as petri dishes are technically challenging for single cells, which could mask the heterogeneity. Single-cell technologies can reveal complex and rare cell populations by detecting heterogeneity among individual cells, which offers advantages of higher resolution, higher throughput, more accurate analysis, etc. Here, we overviewed several single-cell techniques on observation, isolation, and identification from aspects of methods and applications. Microscopic observation, sequencing identification, flow cytometric identification and isolation, Raman spectroscopy-based identification and isolation, and their applications are mainly discussed. Further development on multi-technique integrations at the single-cell level may highly advance the research progress of environmental microbiology, thereby giving more indication in the environmental microbial ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongping Shan
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Yuting Guo
- Flow Cytometry Center, National Institute of Biological Sciences, Beijing 102206, China
| | - Wentao Jiao
- Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
| | - Ping Zeng
- Department of Urban Water Environmental Research, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
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26
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Yu H, Yang C, Tai Q, Gao M, Zhang X. New Method for Counting and Picking Out Single Circulating Tumor Cells from Microliter-Volume Samples for Tumor Progression Surveillance and Single-Cell Heterogeneity Analysis. Anal Chem 2023; 95:5232-5239. [PMID: 36913664 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c04994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are crucial in tumor progression and metastasis, but the knowledge of their roles grows slowly at single-cell levels. Characterizing the rarity and fragility of CTCs by nature, highly stable and efficient single-CTC sampling methods are still lacking, which impedes the development of single-CTC analysis. Herein, an improved, capillary-based single-cell sampling (SiCS) method, the so-called bubble-glue single-cell sampling (bubble-glue SiCS), is introduced. Benefiting from the characteristic that the cells tend to adhere to air bubbles in the solution, single cells can be sampled with bubbles as low as 20 pL with a self-designed microbubble-volume-controlled system. Benefiting from the excellent maneuverability, single CTCs are sampled directly from 10 μL volume of real blood samples after fluorescent labeling. Meanwhile, over 90% of the CTCs obtained survived and well proliferated after the bubble-glue SiCS process, which showed considerable superiority for downstream single-CTC profiling. Furthermore, a highly metastatic breast cancer model of the 4T1 cell line in vivo was employed for the real blood sample analysis. Increases in CTC numbers were observed during the tumor progression process, and significant heterogeneities among individual CTCs were discovered. In all, we propose a novel avenue for target SiCS and provide an alternative technique route for CTC separation and analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hailong Yu
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Chenjie Yang
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Qunfei Tai
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Mingxia Gao
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
| | - Xiangmin Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, China
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27
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Lu N, Tay HM, Petchakup C, He L, Gong L, Maw KK, Leong SY, Lok WW, Ong HB, Guo R, Li KHH, Hou HW. Label-free microfluidic cell sorting and detection for rapid blood analysis. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:1226-1257. [PMID: 36655549 DOI: 10.1039/d2lc00904h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Blood tests are considered as standard clinical procedures to screen for markers of diseases and health conditions. However, the complex cellular background (>99.9% RBCs) and biomolecular composition often pose significant technical challenges for accurate blood analysis. An emerging approach for point-of-care blood diagnostics is utilizing "label-free" microfluidic technologies that rely on intrinsic cell properties for blood fractionation and disease detection without any antibody binding. A growing body of clinical evidence has also reported that cellular dysfunction and their biophysical phenotypes are complementary to standard hematoanalyzer analysis (complete blood count) and can provide a more comprehensive health profiling. In this review, we will summarize recent advances in microfluidic label-free separation of different blood cell components including circulating tumor cells, leukocytes, platelets and nanoscale extracellular vesicles. Label-free single cell analysis of intrinsic cell morphology, spectrochemical properties, dielectric parameters and biophysical characteristics as novel blood-based biomarkers will also be presented. Next, we will highlight research efforts that combine label-free microfluidics with machine learning approaches to enhance detection sensitivity and specificity in clinical studies, as well as innovative microfluidic solutions which are capable of fully integrated and label-free blood cell sorting and analysis. Lastly, we will envisage the current challenges and future outlook of label-free microfluidics platforms for high throughput multi-dimensional blood cell analysis to identify non-traditional circulating biomarkers for clinical diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nan Lu
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, Nanyang Technological University, 65 Nanyang Drive, Block N3, 637460, Singapore
| | - Hui Min Tay
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Chayakorn Petchakup
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Linwei He
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Lingyan Gong
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Kay Khine Maw
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Sheng Yuan Leong
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Wan Wei Lok
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Hong Boon Ong
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
| | - Ruya Guo
- Key Laboratory of Agricultural Information Acquisition Technology, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, China Agricultural University, Beijing, 100083, China
| | - King Ho Holden Li
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, Nanyang Technological University, 65 Nanyang Drive, Block N3, 637460, Singapore
| | - Han Wei Hou
- School of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Nanyang Technological University, 50 Nanyang Avenue, Blk N3, Level 2, Room 86 (N3-02c-86), 639798, Singapore.
- HP-NTU Digital Manufacturing Corporate Lab, Nanyang Technological University, 65 Nanyang Drive, Block N3, 637460, Singapore
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Clinical Sciences Building, 308232, Singapore
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28
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Sano R, Koyama K, Fukuoka N, Ueno H, Yamamura S, Suzuki T. Single-Cell Microarray Chip with Inverse-Tapered Wells to Maintain High Ratio of Cell Trapping. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:492. [PMID: 36838192 PMCID: PMC9959924 DOI: 10.3390/mi14020492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
A single-cell microarray (SCM) influenced by gravitational force is expected to be one of the simple methods in various fields such as DNA analysis and antibody production. After trapping the cells in the SCM chip, it is necessary to remove the liquid from the SCM to wash away the un-trapped cells on the chip and treat the reagents for analysis. The flow generated during this liquid exchange causes the trapped cells to drop out of conventional vertical wells. In this study, we propose an inverse-tapered well to keep trapped cells from escaping from the SCM. The wells with tapered side walls have a reduced force of flow toward the opening, which prevents trapped cells from escaping. The proposed SCM chip was fabricated using 3D photolithography and polydimethylsiloxane molding techniques. In the trapping experiment using HeLa cells, the cell residual rate increased more than two-fold for the SCM chip with the inverse-tapered well with a taper angle of 30° compared to that for the conventional vertical SCM chip after multiple rounds of liquid exchanges. The proposed well structure increases the number of trapped cells and decreases the cell dropout rate to improve the efficiency of cellular analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryota Sano
- Division of Mechanical Science and Technology, Gunma University, Kiryu 376-8515, Japan
| | - Kentaro Koyama
- Division of Mechanical Science and Technology, Gunma University, Kiryu 376-8515, Japan
| | - Narumi Fukuoka
- Division of Mechanical Science and Technology, Gunma University, Kiryu 376-8515, Japan
| | - Hidetaka Ueno
- Center for Advanced Medical Engineering Research & Development (CAMED), Kobe University, Kobe 650-0047, Japan
| | - Shohei Yamamura
- Health and Medical Research Institute, National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST), 2217-14 Hayashi-cho, Takamatsu 761-0395, Japan
| | - Takaaki Suzuki
- Division of Mechanical Science and Technology, Gunma University, Kiryu 376-8515, Japan
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29
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Plata M, Sharma M, Utz M, Werner JM. Fully Automated Characterization of Protein-Peptide Binding by Microfluidic 2D NMR. J Am Chem Soc 2023; 145:3204-3210. [PMID: 36716203 PMCID: PMC9912330 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.2c13052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
We demonstrate an automated microfluidic nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) system that quantitatively characterizes protein-ligand interactions without user intervention and with minimal sample needs through protein-detected heteronuclear 2D NMR spectroscopy. Quantitation of protein-ligand interactions is of fundamental importance to the understanding of signaling and other life processes. As is well-known, NMR provides rich information both on the thermodynamics of binding and on the binding site. However, the required titrations are laborious and tend to require large amounts of sample, which are not always available. The present work shows how the analytical power of NMR detection can be brought in line with the trend of miniaturization and automation in life science workflows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marek Plata
- School
of Chemistry, University of Southampton, SouthamptonSO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Manvendra Sharma
- School
of Chemistry, University of Southampton, SouthamptonSO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Marcel Utz
- School
of Chemistry, University of Southampton, SouthamptonSO17 1BJ, United Kingdom,Email
for M.U.:
| | - Jörn M. Werner
- School
for Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, B85 Life Science Building, University
Rd, SouthamptonSO17 1BJ, United Kingdom,Email for J.M.W.:
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30
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Zhuang S, Liu H, Inglis DW, Li M. Tuneable Cell-Laden Double-Emulsion Droplets for Enhanced Signal Detection. Anal Chem 2023; 95:2039-2046. [PMID: 36634052 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c04697] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) or double-emulsion (DE) droplets have been widely used for cellular assays at a single-cell level because of their stability and biocompatibility. The oil shell of w/o/w droplets plays the role of a semipermeable membrane that allows substances with low molecular weight (e.g., water) to travel through but restricts those with high molecular weight (e.g., fluorescent biomarkers). Therefore, the core of DEs can be manipulated using osmosis, resulting in the shrinking or swelling of the core. Water leaves the inner aqueous phase to the outer phase via the oil shell when the osmotic pressure of the outer phase is higher than that in the inner phase, causing the shrinkage of DEs and vice versa. These processes can be achieved by transferring the DEs to hypertonic or hypotonic solutions. Manipulation of the core size of DEs can be beneficial to cellular assays. First, due to the selectivity of the oil shell of DEs, the concentration of biomarkers in the core increases when the inner aqueous phase is shrunk, resulting in the enhancement of biosignals. We demonstrate this by encapsulating the Bgl3 enzyme-secreting yeast with a substrate that displays fluorescence after hydrolyzation. In a second application, a single GFP-tagged yeast cell was encapsulated in DEs. After swelling the core of DEs, we observe that the larger core of DEs promotes cell growth compared to those with the smaller cores, leading to more intracellular proteins (green-fluorescent protein) for screening. These osmotic manipulations provide new tools for droplet-based biochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyuan Zhuang
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia
| | - Hangrui Liu
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia
| | - David W Inglis
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia
| | - Ming Li
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia
- Biomolecular Discovery Research Centre, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales 2109, Australia
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31
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Cui Z. ANALYSIS OF THE ARTICULAR LOAD ON THE LOWER LIMBS DURING BACKFLIP. REV BRAS MED ESPORTE 2023. [DOI: 10.1590/1517-8692202329012022_0464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Introduction: Sports injuries restrict the acquisition of optimal results and represent a great threat to the athlete's physical health, lower limb injuries being the most prominent, mainly those caused by landing. Objective: Use biomechanics to analyze the joint load of the lower limbs during the landing process in the gymnastics backflip, establishing movement control and reducing the risk of lower limb injury. Methods: The male athletes of the National Gymnastics Team were selected as the research objects, and the three-dimensional backflip (BS) motion trajectory was completed after the landing process was completed, the vertical ground reaction force (VGRF) after landing and the lower limb muscle electromyography (EMG) after landing was collected, and the human multi-body system model and the landing platform model of the landing action were completed with the help of the system simulation software. Results: Statistics show that gymnasts train more intensively during competition or daily training, performing more than 200 landings per week, a factor that increases the risk of injuries during the backflip in athletes. Conclusion: The lower limb joint load of the landing action in gymnastics backflip is high, which will cause a certain risk of injury, and specific measures can be taken to control it. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies - investigation of treatment outcomes.
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32
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Chen Y, Wu Z, Sutlive J, Wu K, Mao L, Nie J, Zhao XZ, Guo F, Chen Z, Huang Q. Noninvasive prenatal diagnosis targeting fetal nucleated red blood cells. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:546. [PMID: 36585678 PMCID: PMC9805221 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01749-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Noninvasive prenatal diagnosis (NIPD) aims to detect fetal-related genetic disorders before birth by detecting markers in the peripheral blood of pregnant women, holding the potential in reducing the risk of fetal birth defects. Fetal-nucleated red blood cells (fNRBCs) can be used as biomarkers for NIPD, given their remarkable nature of carrying the entire genetic information of the fetus. Here, we review recent advances in NIPD technologies based on the isolation and analysis of fNRBCs. Conventional cell separation methods rely primarily on physical properties and surface antigens of fNRBCs, such as density gradient centrifugation, fluorescence-activated cell sorting, and magnetic-activated cell sorting. Due to the limitations of sensitivity and purity in Conventional methods, separation techniques based on micro-/nanomaterials have been developed as novel methods for isolating and enriching fNRBCs. We also discuss emerging methods based on microfluidic chips and nanostructured substrates for static and dynamic isolation of fNRBCs. Additionally, we introduce the identification techniques of fNRBCs and address the potential clinical diagnostic values of fNRBCs. Finally, we highlight the challenges and the future directions of fNRBCs as treatment guidelines in NIPD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanyu Chen
- grid.207374.50000 0001 2189 3846Academy of Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China ,grid.49470.3e0000 0001 2331 6153School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072 China
| | - Zhuhao Wu
- grid.411377.70000 0001 0790 959XDepartment of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405 USA
| | - Joseph Sutlive
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDivision of Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Ke Wu
- grid.49470.3e0000 0001 2331 6153School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072 China
| | - Lu Mao
- grid.207374.50000 0001 2189 3846Academy of Medical Sciences, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Jiabao Nie
- grid.38142.3c000000041936754XDivision of Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery, Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115 USA ,grid.261112.70000 0001 2173 3359Department of Biological Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, MA 02115 USA
| | - Xing-Zhong Zhao
- grid.49470.3e0000 0001 2331 6153School of Physics and Technology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, 430072 China
| | - Feng Guo
- Department of Intelligent Systems Engineering, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, 47405, United States.
| | - Zi Chen
- Division of Thoracic and Cardiac Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
| | - Qinqin Huang
- The Research and Application Center of Precision Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China.
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33
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Naderi MM, Barilla L, Zhou J, Papautsky I, Peng Z. Elasto-Inertial Focusing Mechanisms of Particles in Shear-Thinning Viscoelastic Fluid in Rectangular Microchannels. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13122131. [PMID: 36557430 PMCID: PMC9781382 DOI: 10.3390/mi13122131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Growth of the microfluidics field has triggered numerous advances in focusing and separating microparticles, with such systems rapidly finding applications in biomedical, chemical, and environmental fields. The use of shear-thinning viscoelastic fluids in microfluidic channels is leading to evolution of elasto-inertial focusing. Herein, we showed that the interplay between the elastic and shear-gradient lift forces, as well as the secondary flow transversal drag force that is caused by the non-zero second normal stress difference, lead to different particle focusing patterns in the elasto-inertial regime. Experiments and 3D simulations were performed to study the effects of flowrate, particle size, and the shear-thinning extent of the fluid on the focusing patterns. The Giesekus constitutive equation was used in the simulations to capture the shear-thinning and viscoelastic behaviors of the solution used in the experiments. At low flowrate, with Weissenberg number Wi ~ O(1), both the elastic force and secondary flow effects push particles towards the channel center. However, at a high flowrate, Wi ~ O(10), the elastic force direction is reversed in the central regions. This remarkable behavior of the elastic force, combined with the enhanced shear-gradient lift at the high flowrate, pushes particles away from the channel center. Additionally, a precise prediction of the focusing position can only be made when the shear-thinning extent of the fluid is correctly estimated in the modeling. The shear-thinning also gives rise to the unique behavior of the inertial forces near the channel walls which is linked with the ‘warped’ velocity profile in such fluids.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ian Papautsky
- Correspondence: (I.P.); (Z.P.); Tel.: +1-312-413-3800 (I.P.); +1-312-996-7467 (Z.P.)
| | - Zhangli Peng
- Correspondence: (I.P.); (Z.P.); Tel.: +1-312-413-3800 (I.P.); +1-312-996-7467 (Z.P.)
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34
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Glioma Stem Cells: Novel Data Obtained by Single-Cell Sequencing. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214224. [PMID: 36430704 PMCID: PMC9694247 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Glioma is the most common type of primary CNS tumor, composed of cells that resemble normal glial cells. Recent genetic studies have provided insight into the inter-tumoral heterogeneity of gliomas, resulting in the updated 2021 WHO classification of gliomas. Thorough understanding of inter-tumoral heterogeneity has already improved the prognosis and treatment outcomes of some types of gliomas. Currently, the challenge for researchers is to study the intratumoral cell heterogeneity of newly defined glioma subtypes. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) present in gliomas and many other tumors are an example of intratumoral heterogeneity of great importance. In this review, we discuss the modern concept of glioma stem cells and recent single-cell sequencing-driven progress in the research of intratumoral glioma cell heterogeneity. The particular emphasis was placed on the recently revealed variations of the cell composition of the subtypes of the adult-type diffuse gliomas, including astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma and glioblastoma. The novel data explain the inconsistencies in earlier glioma stem cell research and also provide insight into the development of more effective targeted therapy and the cell-based immunotherapy of gliomas. Separate sections are devoted to the description of single-cell sequencing approach and its role in the development of cell-based immunotherapies for glioma.
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Habibey R, Rojo Arias JE, Striebel J, Busskamp V. Microfluidics for Neuronal Cell and Circuit Engineering. Chem Rev 2022; 122:14842-14880. [PMID: 36070858 PMCID: PMC9523714 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The widespread adoption of microfluidic devices among the neuroscience and neurobiology communities has enabled addressing a broad range of questions at the molecular, cellular, circuit, and system levels. Here, we review biomedical engineering approaches that harness the power of microfluidics for bottom-up generation of neuronal cell types and for the assembly and analysis of neural circuits. Microfluidics-based approaches are instrumental to generate the knowledge necessary for the derivation of diverse neuronal cell types from human pluripotent stem cells, as they enable the isolation and subsequent examination of individual neurons of interest. Moreover, microfluidic devices allow to engineer neural circuits with specific orientations and directionality by providing control over neuronal cell polarity and permitting the isolation of axons in individual microchannels. Similarly, the use of microfluidic chips enables the construction not only of 2D but also of 3D brain, retinal, and peripheral nervous system model circuits. Such brain-on-a-chip and organoid-on-a-chip technologies are promising platforms for studying these organs as they closely recapitulate some aspects of in vivo biological processes. Microfluidic 3D neuronal models, together with 2D in vitro systems, are widely used in many applications ranging from drug development and toxicology studies to neurological disease modeling and personalized medicine. Altogether, microfluidics provide researchers with powerful systems that complement and partially replace animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rouhollah Habibey
- Department
of Ophthalmology, Universitäts-Augenklinik
Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, D-53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Jesús Eduardo Rojo Arias
- Wellcome—MRC
Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre, Cambridge
Biomedical Campus, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0AW, United Kingdom
| | - Johannes Striebel
- Department
of Ophthalmology, Universitäts-Augenklinik
Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, D-53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Volker Busskamp
- Department
of Ophthalmology, Universitäts-Augenklinik
Bonn, University of Bonn, Ernst-Abbe-Straße 2, D-53127 Bonn, Germany
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Bhanse P, Kumar M, Singh L, Awasthi MK, Qureshi A. Role of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria in boosting the phytoremediation of stressed soils: Opportunities, challenges, and prospects. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 303:134954. [PMID: 35595111 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.134954] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 04/30/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2022] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Soil is considered as a vital natural resource equivalent to air and water which supports growth of the plants and provides habitats to microorganisms. Changes in soil properties, productivity, and, inevitably contamination/stress are the result of urbanisation, industrialization, and long-term use of synthetic fertiliser. Therefore, in the recent scenario, reclamation of contaminated/stressed soils has become a potential challenge. Several customized, such as, physical, chemical, and biological technologies have been deployed so far to restore contaminated land. Among them, microbial-assisted phytoremediation is considered as an economical and greener approach. In recent decades, soil microbes have successfully been used to improve plants' ability to tolerate biotic and abiotic stress and strengthen their phytoremediation capacity. Therefore, in this context, the current review work critically explored the microbial assisted phytoremediation mechanisms to restore different types of stressed soil. The role of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) and their potential mechanisms that foster plants' growth and also enhance phytoremediation capacity are focussed. Finally, this review has emphasized on the application of advanced tools and techniques to effectively characterize potent soil microbial communities and their significance in boosting the phytoremediation process of stressed soils along with prospects for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poonam Bhanse
- Environmental Biotechnology and Genomics Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Manish Kumar
- Environmental Biotechnology and Genomics Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India
| | - Lal Singh
- Environmental Biotechnology and Genomics Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar Awasthi
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, PR China.
| | - Asifa Qureshi
- Environmental Biotechnology and Genomics Division, CSIR-National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-NEERI), Nehru Marg, Nagpur, 440020, Maharashtra, India; Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, 201002, India.
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Yallew TS, Belfiore NP, Bagolini A, Pantano MF. Performance Analysis of a CSFH-Based Microgripper: Analytical Modeling and Simulation. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:1391. [PMID: 36144014 PMCID: PMC9502756 DOI: 10.3390/mi13091391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microgrippers are promising tools for micro-manipulation and characterization of cells. In this paper, a biocompatible electro-thermally actuated microgripper with rotary capacitive position sensor is presented. To overcome the limited displacement possibilities usually provided by electrothermal actuators and to achieve the desired tweezers output displacement, conjugate surface flexure hinges (CSFH) are adopted. The microgripper herein reported can in principle manipulate biological samples in the size range between 15 and 120 µm. A kinematics modeling approach based on the pseudo-rigid-body-method (PRBM) is applied to describe the microgripper's working mechanism, and analytical modeling, based on finite elements method (FEM), is used to optimize the electrothermal actuator design and the heat dissipation mechanism. Finally, FEM-based simulations are carried out to verify the microgripper, the electrothermal actuator and heat dissipation mechanism performance, and to assess the validity of the analytical modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teferi Sitotaw Yallew
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
- Micro Nano Facility, Fondazione Bruno Kessler, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | | | - Alvise Bagolini
- Micro Nano Facility, Fondazione Bruno Kessler, 38123 Trento, Italy
| | - Maria F. Pantano
- Department of Civil, Environmental and Mechanical Engineering, University of Trento, 38123 Trento, Italy
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Sun J, Lo HTJ, Fan L, Yiu TL, Shakoor A, Li G, Lee WYW, Sun D. High-efficiency quantitative control of mitochondrial transfer based on droplet microfluidics and its application on muscle regeneration. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabp9245. [PMID: 35977014 PMCID: PMC9385153 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abp9245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial transfer is a spontaneous process to restore damaged cells in various pathological conditions. The transfer of mitochondria to cell therapy products before their administration can enhance therapeutic outcomes. However, the low efficiency of previously reported methods limits their clinical application. Here, we developed a droplet microfluidics-based mitochondrial transfer technique that can achieve high-efficiency and high-throughput quantitative mitochondrial transfer to single cells. Because mitochondria are essential for muscles, myoblast cells and a muscle injury model were used as a proof-of-concept model to evaluate the proposed technique. In vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that C2C12 cells with 31 transferred mitochondria had significant improvements in cellular functions compared to those with 0, 8, and 14 transferred mitochondria and also had better therapeutic effects on muscle regeneration. The proposed technique can considerably promote the clinical application of mitochondrial transfer, with optimized cell function improvements, for the cell therapy of mitochondria-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hiu Tung Jessica Lo
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Lui Che Woo Institute of Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Lei Fan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Tsz Lam Yiu
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Lui Che Woo Institute of Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Adnan Shakoor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Gang Li
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Lui Che Woo Institute of Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Wayne Y. W. Lee
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Li Ka Shing Institute of Health Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Lui Che Woo Institute of Innovative Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR, China
- SH Ho Scoliosis Research Laboratory, Joint Scoliosis Research Centre of the Chinese University of Hong Kong and Nanjing University, Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Dong Sun
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Robotics and Automation, City University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, China
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Wang X, Wang Z, Yu C, Ge Z, Yang W. Advances in precise single-cell capture for analysis and biological applications. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2022; 14:3047-3063. [PMID: 35946358 DOI: 10.1039/d2ay00625a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Cells are the basic structural and functional units of living organisms. However, conventional cell analysis only averages millions of cell populations, and some important information is lost. It is essential to quantitatively characterize the physiology and pathology of single-cell activities. Precise single-cell capture is an extremely challenging task during cell sample preparation. In this review, we summarize the category of technologies to capture single cells precisely with a focus on the latest development in the last five years. Each technology has its own set of benefits and specific challenges, which provide opportunities for researchers in different fields. Accordingly, we introduce the applications of captured single cells in cancer diagnosis, analysis of metabolism and secretion, and disease treatment. Finally, some perspectives are provided on the current development trends, future research directions, and challenges of single-cell capture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowen Wang
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China.
| | - Zhen Wang
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China.
| | - Chang Yu
- College of Computer Science, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400000, China
| | - Zhixing Ge
- State Key Laboratory of Robotics, Shenyang Institute of Automation, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang 110016, China.
| | - Wenguang Yang
- School of Electromechanical and Automotive Engineering, Yantai University, Yantai 264005, China.
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Pal M, Fouxon I, Leshansky AM, Ghosh A. Fluid flow induced by helical microswimmers in bulk and near walls. PHYSICAL REVIEW RESEARCH 2022; 4:033069. [PMID: 37275181 PMCID: PMC7614617 DOI: 10.1103/physrevresearch.4.033069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Magnetic nano- and microswimmers provide a powerful platform to study driven colloidal systems in fluidic media and are relevant to futuristic medical technologies requiring precise yet minimally invasive motion control at small scales. Upon the action of a rotating magnetic field, the helical microswimmers rotate and translate, generating flow in the surrounding fluid. In this paper, we study the fluid flow induced by the rotating helices using a combination of experiments, numerical simulations, and theory. The microhelices are actuated either in a fluid bulk or in proximity to the bottom wall using typical microfluidic device setup. We conclude that the mean hydrodynamic flow due to the helix actuation can be closely approximated by a system of rotlets line distributed along the helical axis (i.e., representing the flow due to rotating cylinder) which gets modified close to a wall through appropriate contributions from image multipoles. As the mean flow can be obtained in closed form, this study can be further applied towards modeling of the dynamics in a swarm of driven microswimmers interacting hydrodynamically near a bounding surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malay Pal
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
| | - Itzhak Fouxon
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000 Israel
| | - Alexander M. Leshansky
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Technion – Israel Institute of Technology, Haifa, 32000 Israel
| | - Ambarish Ghosh
- Centre for Nano Science and Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
- Department of Physics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 560012, India
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Bashir KMI, Lee S, Jung DH, Basu SK, Cho MG, Wierschem A. Narrow-Gap Rheometry: A Novel Method for Measuring Cell Mechanics. Cells 2022; 11:2010. [PMID: 35805094 PMCID: PMC9265971 DOI: 10.3390/cells11132010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The viscoelastic properties of a cell cytoskeleton contain abundant information about the state of a cell. Cells show a response to a specific environment or an administered drug through changes in their viscoelastic properties. Studies of single cells have shown that chemical agents that interact with the cytoskeleton can alter mechanical cell properties and suppress mitosis. This envisions using rheological measurements as a non-specific tool for drug development, the pharmacological screening of new drug agents, and to optimize dosage. Although there exists a number of sophisticated methods for studying mechanical properties of single cells, studying concentration dependencies is difficult and cumbersome with these methods: large cell-to-cell variations demand high repetition rates to obtain statistically significant data. Furthermore, method-induced changes in the cell mechanics cannot be excluded when working in a nonlinear viscoelastic range. To address these issues, we not only compared narrow-gap rheometry with commonly used single cell techniques, such as atomic force microscopy and microfluidic-based approaches, but we also compared existing cell monolayer studies used to estimate cell mechanical properties. This review provides insight for whether and how narrow-gap rheometer could be used as an efficient drug screening tool, which could further improve our current understanding of the mechanical issues present in the treatment of human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khawaja Muhammad Imran Bashir
- German Engineering Research and Development Center, LSTME-Busan Branch, Busan 46742, Korea; (K.M.I.B.); (S.L.); (D.H.J.); (M.-G.C.)
| | - Suhyang Lee
- German Engineering Research and Development Center, LSTME-Busan Branch, Busan 46742, Korea; (K.M.I.B.); (S.L.); (D.H.J.); (M.-G.C.)
- Institute of Fluid Mechanics, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91058 Erlangen, Germany;
| | - Dong Hee Jung
- German Engineering Research and Development Center, LSTME-Busan Branch, Busan 46742, Korea; (K.M.I.B.); (S.L.); (D.H.J.); (M.-G.C.)
- Division of Energy and Bioengineering, Dongseo University, Busan 47011, Korea
| | - Santanu Kumar Basu
- Institute of Fluid Mechanics, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91058 Erlangen, Germany;
| | - Man-Gi Cho
- German Engineering Research and Development Center, LSTME-Busan Branch, Busan 46742, Korea; (K.M.I.B.); (S.L.); (D.H.J.); (M.-G.C.)
- Division of Energy and Bioengineering, Dongseo University, Busan 47011, Korea
| | - Andreas Wierschem
- German Engineering Research and Development Center, LSTME-Busan Branch, Busan 46742, Korea; (K.M.I.B.); (S.L.); (D.H.J.); (M.-G.C.)
- Institute of Fluid Mechanics, Friedrich-Alexander-University Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), 91058 Erlangen, Germany;
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Tiemeijer BM, Tel J. Hydrogels for Single-Cell Microgel Production: Recent Advances and Applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2022; 10:891461. [PMID: 35782502 PMCID: PMC9247248 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2022.891461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Single-cell techniques have become more and more incorporated in cell biological research over the past decades. Various approaches have been proposed to isolate, culture, sort, and analyze individual cells to understand cellular heterogeneity, which is at the foundation of every systematic cellular response in the human body. Microfluidics is undoubtedly the most suitable method of manipulating cells, due to its small scale, high degree of control, and gentle nature toward vulnerable cells. More specifically, the technique of microfluidic droplet production has proven to provide reproducible single-cell encapsulation with high throughput. Various in-droplet applications have been explored, ranging from immunoassays, cytotoxicity assays, and single-cell sequencing. All rely on the theoretically unlimited throughput that can be achieved and the monodispersity of each individual droplet. To make these platforms more suitable for adherent cells or to maintain spatial control after de-emulsification, hydrogels can be included during droplet production to obtain “microgels.” Over the past years, a multitude of research has focused on the possibilities these can provide. Also, as the technique matures, it is becoming clear that it will result in advantages over conventional droplet approaches. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview on how various types of hydrogels can be incorporated into different droplet-based approaches and provide novel and more robust analytic and screening applications. We will further focus on a wide range of recently published applications for microgels and how these can be applied in cell biological research at the single- to multicell scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. M. Tiemeijer
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, TU Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, TU Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - J. Tel
- Laboratory of Immunoengineering, Department of Biomedical Engineering, TU Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Institute of Complex Molecular Systems, TU Eindhoven, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: J. Tel,
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Bhat MP, Thendral V, Uthappa UT, Lee KH, Kigga M, Altalhi T, Kurkuri MD, Kant K. Recent Advances in Microfluidic Platform for Physical and Immunological Detection and Capture of Circulating Tumor Cells. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:220. [PMID: 35448280 PMCID: PMC9025399 DOI: 10.3390/bios12040220] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2022] [Revised: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
CTCs (circulating tumor cells) are well-known for their use in clinical trials for tumor diagnosis. Capturing and isolating these CTCs from whole blood samples has enormous benefits in cancer diagnosis and treatment. In general, various approaches are being used to separate malignant cells, including immunomagnets, macroscale filters, centrifuges, dielectrophoresis, and immunological approaches. These procedures, on the other hand, are time-consuming and necessitate multiple high-level operational protocols. In addition, considering their low efficiency and throughput, the processes of capturing and isolating CTCs face tremendous challenges. Meanwhile, recent advances in microfluidic devices promise unprecedented advantages for capturing and isolating CTCs with greater efficiency, sensitivity, selectivity and accuracy. In this regard, this review article focuses primarily on the various fabrication methodologies involved in microfluidic devices and techniques specifically used to capture and isolate CTCs using various physical and biological methods as well as their conceptual ideas, advantages and disadvantages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahesh Padmalaya Bhat
- Centre for Research in Functional Materials (CRFM), Jain Global Campus, Jain University, Bengaluru 562112, Karnataka, India; (M.P.B.); (V.T.); (M.K.)
- Agricultural Automation Research Center, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea;
| | - Venkatachalam Thendral
- Centre for Research in Functional Materials (CRFM), Jain Global Campus, Jain University, Bengaluru 562112, Karnataka, India; (M.P.B.); (V.T.); (M.K.)
| | | | - Kyeong-Hwan Lee
- Agricultural Automation Research Center, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea;
- Department of Convergence Biosystems Engineering, Chonnam National University, Gwangju 61186, Korea
| | - Madhuprasad Kigga
- Centre for Research in Functional Materials (CRFM), Jain Global Campus, Jain University, Bengaluru 562112, Karnataka, India; (M.P.B.); (V.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Tariq Altalhi
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, Taif University, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Mahaveer D. Kurkuri
- Centre for Research in Functional Materials (CRFM), Jain Global Campus, Jain University, Bengaluru 562112, Karnataka, India; (M.P.B.); (V.T.); (M.K.)
| | - Krishna Kant
- Departamento de Química Física, Campus Universitario, CINBIO Universidade de Vigo, 36310 Vigo, Spain
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Fallahi H, Cha H, Adelnia H, Dai Y, Ta HT, Yadav S, Zhang J, Nguyen NT. On-demand deterministic release of particles and cells using stretchable microfluidics. NANOSCALE HORIZONS 2022; 7:414-424. [PMID: 35237777 DOI: 10.1039/d1nh00679g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic technologies have been widely used for single-cell studies as they provide facile, cost-effective, and high-throughput evaluations of single cells with great accuracy. Capturing single cells has been investigated extensively using various microfluidic techniques. Furthermore, cell retrieval is crucial for the subsequent study of cells in applications such as drug screening. However, there are no robust methods for the facile release of the captured cells. Therefore, we developed a stretchable microfluidic cell trapper for easy on-demand release of cells in a deterministic manner. The stretchable microdevice consists of several U-shaped microstructures to capture single cells. The gap at the bottom edge of the microstructure broadens when the device is stretched along its width. By tuning the horizontal elongation of the device, ample space is provided to release particle/cell sizes of interest. The performance of the stretchable microdevice was evaluated using particles and cells. A deterministic release of particles was demonstrated using a mixture of 15 μm and 20 μm particles. The retrieval of the 15 μm particles and the 20 μm particles was achieved with elongation lengths of 1 mm and 5 mm, respectively. Two different cell lines, T47D breast cancer cells and J774A.1 macrophages, were employed to characterise the cell release capability of the device. The proposed stretchable micro cell trapper provided a deterministic recovery of the captured cells by adjusting the elongation length of the device. We believe that this stretchable microfluidic platform can provide an alternative method to facilely release trapped cells for subsequent evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hedieh Fallahi
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
| | - Haotian Cha
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
| | - Hossein Adelnia
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
| | - Yuchen Dai
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
| | - Hang Thu Ta
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
| | - Sharda Yadav
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
| | - Jun Zhang
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland 4111, Australia.
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Fast Electrochemical Actuator with Ti Electrodes in the Current Stabilization Regime. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13020283. [PMID: 35208407 PMCID: PMC8877286 DOI: 10.3390/mi13020283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Revised: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
The actuators needed for autonomous microfluidic devices have to be compact, low-power-consuming, and compatible with microtechnology. The electrochemical actuators could be good candidates, but they suffer from a long response time due to slow gas termination. An actuator in which the gas is terminated orders of magnitude faster has been demonstrated recently. It uses water electrolysis performed by short voltage pulses of alternating polarity (AP). However, oxidation of Ti electrodes leads to a rapid decrease in the performance. In this paper, we demonstrate a special driving regime of the actuator, which is able to support a constant stroke for at least 105 cycles. The result is achieved using a new driving regime when a series of AP pulses are interspersed with a series of single-polarity (SP) pulses. The new regime is realized by a special pulse generator that automatically adjusts the amplitude of the SP pulses to keep the current flowing through the electrodes at a fixed level. The SP pulses increase the power consumption by 15–60% compared to the normal AP operation and make the membrane oscillate in a slightly lifted position.
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Luo X, Chen JY, Ataei M, Lee A. Microfluidic Compartmentalization Platforms for Single Cell Analysis. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:58. [PMID: 35200319 PMCID: PMC8869497 DOI: 10.3390/bios12020058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Many cellular analytical technologies measure only the average response from a cell population with an assumption that a clonal population is homogenous. The ensemble measurement often masks the difference among individual cells that can lead to misinterpretation. The advent of microfluidic technology has revolutionized single-cell analysis through precise manipulation of liquid and compartmentalizing single cells in small volumes (pico- to nano-liter). Due to its advantages from miniaturization, microfluidic systems offer an array of capabilities to study genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics of a large number of individual cells. In this regard, microfluidic systems have emerged as a powerful technology to uncover cellular heterogeneity and expand the depth and breadth of single-cell analysis. This review will focus on recent developments of three microfluidic compartmentalization platforms (microvalve, microwell, and microdroplets) that target single-cell analysis spanning from proteomics to genomics. We also compare and contrast these three microfluidic platforms and discuss their respective advantages and disadvantages in single-cell analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuhao Luo
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; (X.L.); (J.-Y.C.)
| | - Jui-Yi Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; (X.L.); (J.-Y.C.)
| | - Marzieh Ataei
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA;
| | - Abraham Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA; (X.L.); (J.-Y.C.)
- Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA 92697, USA;
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Jiang F, Xiang N. Integrated Microfluidic Handheld Cell Sorter for High-Throughput Label-Free Malignant Tumor Cell Sorting. Anal Chem 2022; 94:1859-1866. [PMID: 35020366 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.1c04819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Handheld sample preparation devices are urgently required for point-of-care diagnosis in resource-limited settings. In this paper, we develop a novel handheld sorter with a multifunction integrated microfluidic chip. The integrated microfluidic handheld sorter (μHCS) is composed of three units, including cartridges, shells, and core integrated microchip. The integrated microchip contains two flow regulators for achieving the on-chip regulation of the input flows generated by a low-cost diaphragm pump to the desired flow rates and a spiral inertial microfluidic channel for size-based cell separation. After introducing the conceptual design of our μHCS system, the performances of the separate spiral channel and flow regulator are systematically characterized and optimized, respectively. Finally, the prototype of the μHCS is successfully assembled to separate the malignant tumor cells from the clinical pleural effusions. Our μHCS is simple to use, inexpensive, portable, and compact and can be used for high-throughput label-free separation of rare cells from large volume samples in resource-limited areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengtao Jiang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China.,School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, The University of Sydney, Darlington, New South Wales 2008, Australia
| | - Nan Xiang
- School of Mechanical Engineering, and Jiangsu Key Laboratory for Design and Manufacture of Micro-Nano Biomedical Instruments, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
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Teixeira A, Carneiro A, Piairo P, Xavier M, Ainla A, Lopes C, Sousa-Silva M, Dias A, Martins AS, Rodrigues C, Pereira R, Pires LR, Abalde-Cela S, Diéguez L. Advances in Microfluidics for the Implementation of Liquid Biopsy in Clinical Routine. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1379:553-590. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-04039-9_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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49
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Dong Z, Wang Y, Yin D, Hang X, Pu L, Zhang J, Geng J, Chang L. Advanced techniques for gene heterogeneity research: Single‐cell sequencing and on‐chip gene analysis systems. VIEW 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/viw.20210011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Zaizai Dong
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Beihang University Beijing China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center West China Hospital Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center Chengdu China
| | - Dedong Yin
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Beihang University Beijing China
| | - Xinxin Hang
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Beihang University Beijing China
| | - Lei Pu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center West China Hospital Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center Chengdu China
| | - Jianfu Zhang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center West China Hospital Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center Chengdu China
| | - Jia Geng
- Department of Laboratory Medicine State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy and Cancer Center West China Hospital Sichuan University/Collaborative Innovation Center Chengdu China
| | - Lingqian Chang
- Key Laboratory of Biomechanics and Mechanobiology, Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering Beihang University Beijing China
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Russo GI, Musso N, Romano A, Caruso G, Petralia S, Lanzanò L, Broggi G, Camarda M. The Role of Dielectrophoresis for Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis. Cancers (Basel) 2021; 14:198. [PMID: 35008359 PMCID: PMC8750463 DOI: 10.3390/cancers14010198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Liquid biopsy is emerging as a potential diagnostic tool for prostate cancer (PC) prognosis and diagnosis. Unfortunately, most circulating tumor cells (CTC) technologies, such as AdnaTest or Cellsearch®, critically rely on the epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM) marker, limiting the possibility of detecting cancer stem-like cells (CSCs) and mesenchymal-like cells (EMT-CTCs) that are present during PC progression. In this context, dielectrophoresis (DEP) is an epCAM independent, label-free enrichment system that separates rare cells simply on the basis of their specific electrical properties. As compared to other technologies, DEP may represent a superior technique in terms of running costs, cell yield and specificity. However, because of its higher complexity, it still requires further technical as well as clinical development. DEP can be improved by the use of microfluid, nanostructured materials and fluoro-imaging to increase its potential applications. In the context of cancer, the usefulness of DEP lies in its capacity to detect CTCs in the bloodstream in their epithelial, mesenchymal, or epithelial-mesenchymal phenotype forms, which should be taken into account when choosing CTC enrichment and analysis methods for PC prognosis and diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicolò Musso
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Science (BIOMETEC), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- STLab s.r.l., Via Anapo 53, 95126 Catania, Italy;
| | - Alessandra Romano
- Haematological Section, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Caruso
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (G.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Salvatore Petralia
- Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy; (G.C.); (S.P.)
| | - Luca Lanzanò
- Department of Physics and Astronomy “Ettore Majorana”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Broggi
- Pathology Section, Department of Medical, Surgical Sciences and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
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