A Microfluidic Technique to Probe Cell Deformability

作者： David J. Hoelzle1,2, Bino A. Varghese1,3, Clara K. Chan1, Amy C. Rowat1 1Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology,University of California, Los Angeles, 2Department of Aerospace and Mechanical Engineering,University of Notre Dame, 3Molecular Imaging Center,University of Southern California

简介：

Overview

This study investigates the deformability of various cell types using a microfluidics-based assay. The assay measures the timescale for cells to transit through a series of micron-scale constrictions, providing insights into cell behavior under pressure-driven flow.

Key Study Components

Area of Science

• Cell biology
• Microfluidics
• Biomechanics

Background

• Cell deformability is crucial for various physiological processes.
• Existing techniques for measuring cell deformability have limitations in throughput.
• Microfluidic devices offer a high-throughput alternative for such assays.
• This study utilizes PDMS microfluidic devices to enhance measurement accuracy.

Purpose of Study

• To assess the deformability of different cell types.
• To measure the transit times of cells through constrictions.
• To compare the performance of microfluidic assays with traditional methods.

Methods Used

• Fabrication of PDMS microfluidic devices.
• Pressure-driven flow to drive cells through channels.
• Automated image analysis for processing video data.
• Histogram analysis of transit time data.

Main Results

• Different cell types exhibit varying levels of deformability.
• Transit times correlate with cell type and deformability.
• The microfluidic assay demonstrates high throughput capabilities.
• This method outperforms traditional techniques like atomic force microscopy.

Conclusions

• The microfluidics-based assay is effective for measuring cell deformability.
• Results indicate significant differences in cell behavior based on type.
• This approach can enhance our understanding of cell mechanics in various contexts.

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