Cascaded Microfluidic Structure for Cancer Cell Sorting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic structures face challenges in efficiently sorting and collecting rare and larger-sized substances, such as cancer cells, from blood due to their small numbers and size differences, which limits real-time patient status monitoring and treatment effectiveness.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic structure with a cascaded design featuring an S-shaped track connecting first and second annular flow channels with varying radii and height differences, generating Dean Vortices to separate substances based on size, allowing for efficient sorting and concentration of targeted substances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional invasive surgery is used to collect cancer cell specimens, then sufficient samples can be obtained for detection, but the patient's body is heavily burdened and real-time monitoring is impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the detection approach from requiring large sample volumes (invasive surgery) to detecting rare cells in small blood volumes (circulating tumor cells). By targeting specific rare cells rather than requiring bulk tissue samples, the system achieves sufficient detection capability with minimal patient burden.
2Productivity
If microfluidic structures are used to sort targeted substances, then sorting efficiency is improved, but the structure complexity increases due to cascaded annular flow channels
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic structure is divided into multiple functional segments: first annular flow channel for initial separation, second annular flow channel for further sorting, and multiple output ports for different sized particles. Each segment performs a specific sorting function, achieving high efficiency through systematic division of the sorting process into manageable stages.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs nested annular flow channels where the first annular channel contains an inner wall and outer wall, and the second annular channel is positioned within or adjacent to the first. The channels are arranged in a cascaded configuration where the output of one feeds into the next, creating a compact nested structure that achieves complex sorting functionality within a confined space.
3Measurement precision
If conventional testing procedures are used, then comprehensive detection can be performed, but the procedures are complicated and highly dependent on operator experience
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic device performs self-sorting based on the physical properties of particles (size, density) without requiring complex external control systems or operator intervention. The cascaded annular channels automatically separate particles through hydrodynamic forces, making the procedure robust and independent of operator experience while maintaining high detection accuracy.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The structure effectively sorts and concentrates cancer cells and other pathogens by deflecting them to specific output ports, enhancing separation efficiency and reducing the need for invasive procedures, with a concentration rate of up to 10000-folds, facilitating early detection and reducing patient burden.
Implementation Method 1
A microfluidic structure with a cascaded design featuring an S-shaped track connecting first and second annular flow channels with varying radii and height differences, generating Dean Vortices to separate substances based on size
Implementation Method 2
The cascaded annular flow channels generate Dean Vortices to separate substances of different sizes through centrifugal force and pressure differential
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides a microfluidic structure for sorting targeted substances. The microfluidic structure includes: an inlet portion having at least one fluid input port; an outlet portion having a plurality of fluid output ports; a first annular flow channel communicated with the inlet portion at the upstream end and rotatably extended; and a second annular flow channel communicated with the downstream end of the first annular flow channel at the upstream end, communicated with the outlet portion at the downstream end and rotatably extended. The first annular flow channel and the second annular flow channel are connected in series according to an S-shaped track, so that the outer side wall of the first annular flow channel is continuously connected to the inner side wall of the second annular flow channel. The cross-sections of the first annular flow channel and the second annular flow channel have a height difference.