Novel fabrication and operation of microfluidic platforms for on-chip single cell isolation and bioanalysis

Abstract

Different multipurpose platforms were designed, fabricated and characterized to enable key analyses of cell behavior and function at single cell level namely cell-cell interactions or cell migration under controlled conditions. The developed designs offer several advantages over previous approaches including high throughput, simplicity in experimental setup and control, and potential for coupling it to different substrates. Key parameters for optimum fabrication, efficient cell capture and seeding with high viability were established. Further, important factors for long-term experiments were defined. Cleanness and versatility of this microfluidic device makes it a potential tool of high interest in cell-based drug testing, cancer research or cell therapy.