Detection of Cellular Parameters Using a Microfluidic Chip-Based System

Abstract

L ab-on-a-chip technology achieves a reduction of sample and reagent volume and automates complex laboratory processes. Here, we present the implementation of cell assays on a microfluidic platform using disposable microfluidic chips. The applications are based on the controlled movement of cells by pressure-driven flow inside networks of microfluidic channels. Cells are hydrodynamically focused and pass the fluorescence detector in single file. Initial applications are the determination of protein expression and apoptosis parameters. The microfluidic system allows unattended measurement of six samples per chip. Results obtained with the microfluidic chips showed good correlation with data obtained using a standard flow cytometer.

Cytometric analysis of protein expression and apoptosis in human primary cells with a novel microfluidic chip‐based system

“…The design of the cell chip and instrumentation of the microfluidic chip‐based platform for cell analysis has been described in detail previously (5). Briefly, the lab chip instrument was designed for two‐color fluorescence detection and cells are analyzed on disposable glass chips while flowing through microfluidic channels.…”

“…In order to test performance of the chip design and detection system, we used commercially available red or blue calibration beads with a tight fluorescence intensity distribution (5). Histogram coefficients of variation measured were less than 3% higher than what was specified by the beads' supplier.…”

“…Traditional flow cytometry is based on pressure driven flow. Recently, a microfluidic chip‐based platform for the flow cytometric measurement of fluorescene parameters, has been successfully used to evaluate antibody staining, green fluorescent protein (GFP) transfection efficiency and apoptosis in cultured cells (5). The instrument, now commercially available, is equipped with two light sources and emitted fluorescence is measured in single cells as they pass through the illuminating beams in individual channels of the chip.…”

Microfluidic Advancements in Classical Biotechnology – A Review

“…Additional method is flow cytometry for organising protein expression with the purpose to count microscopic details [160]. At this time, micro-devices scrutinised antibody staining as well as transfection competency of the green fluorescent protein (GFP) [161,162]. For instance, a commercial lab on a chip device (Bio-analyzer, Technologies GmbH) exploited to ensure protein expression in cells [163].…”

Amphotericin B and fluconazole susceptibility of Candida species determined by cell‐chip technology

“…25 In the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer system, the cells are moving in a pressure-driven flow through the channels of a special chip, then they are hydrodynamicaly focused and pass a fluorescent detector, and therefore it allows on-chip single cell analysis. 26 With the proper choice of the fluorescent dye, we can monitor different cell parameters and processes like apoptosis, antibodies, transfection efficiency, gene silencing and viability. Microbiological applications of the on-chip FC are limited: bacterial communities, fungal spores and the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae have been studied by this technique.…”