Abstract:
A method is provided for transporting a plurality of cells through a flow chamber, wherein the cells are initially immobilized on an internal surface of the flow chamber. The method comprises: selectively releasing the cells from the internal surface of the flow chamber; and flowing liquid through the flow chamber such that the released cells travel with the liquid, thereby transporting the cells through the flow chamber. Cells can be immobilized on or selectively released from the internal surface by applying or removing a trapping potential. The trapping potential can arise from an electric field gradient or an optical field gradient. Alternatively, cells can be selectively released from the surface using photocatalysis. Selective release allows cells to be individually observed or analyzed downstream, and can be based on a signal detected from one or more cells immobilized on the surface.
Abstract:
Particles are dispensed under controlled conditions to achieve an accurate number of particles by passing a suspension of the particles through a particle detecting device, obtaining a cumulative particle count, comparing the cumulative particle count with a target value, and shutting off the suspension flow once the particle count reaches the target value, all performed by automated means.
Abstract:
Systems, including apparatus and methods, for the microfluidic manipulation, dispensing, and/or sorting of particles, such as cells and/or beads.