Magnetic Cell Separation Using Ferromagnetic Particles
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for cell separation using micro flow channels in lab-on-a-chip systems are inefficient due to subpar cell separation performance, which hinders effective sample preparation for biochemical analysis and diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method utilizing a separation channel with ferromagnetic particles and a magnetic field controller to separate cells based on their magnetic properties, incorporating a flow path with microstructures and buffer fluid injection to enhance magnetic field gradient and prevent re-mixing of cells.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional methods are used for cell separation in micro flow channels, then the device structure is simple, but the cell separation performance is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces ferromagnetic particles as an intermediary substance within the micro flow channel. These particles serve as a mediator between the magnetic field and the cells, enabling separation based on magnetic properties. The ferromagnetic particles create localized magnetic field gradients that exert differential forces on cells with different magnetic susceptibilities, thereby achieving effective cell separation without requiring complex device structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical separation methods (such as physical barriers, centrifugal forces, or complex microfluidic manipulations) with a magnetic field-based separation mechanism. By applying an external magnetic field that interacts with the ferromagnetic particles and cells, the system achieves cell separation through magnetic forces rather than mechanical means, simplifying the overall device structure while improving separation performance.
2Manufacturing precision
If magnetic field strength is increased to improve separation, then cell separation performance improves, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the principle of local quality by concentrating the magnetic field strength at specific locations where ferromagnetic particles are present, rather than uniformly across the entire micro flow channel. The ferromagnetic particles act as magnetic field concentrators, creating localized high-gradient regions that enhance cell separation forces only where needed. This localized approach allows effective separation with lower overall energy consumption compared to applying strong magnetic fields throughout the entire channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by adjusting the magnetic field strength dynamically based on the specific separation requirements and cell types. The system can modify magnetic field parameters (strength, gradient, distribution) to optimize separation performance for different applications. By changing these parameters rather than maintaining constant high field strength, the system achieves effective separation while minimizing energy consumption.
3Manufacturing precision
If ferromagnetic particles are added to enhance magnetic field gradient, then cell separation performance improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs ferromagnetic particles distributed within the micro flow channel, which can be conceptualized as a porous or particulate medium. These particles create a network that enhances the magnetic field gradient through their magnetic properties, similar to how porous materials enhance fluid interaction. The particles are dispersed throughout the channel, creating multiple sites for magnetic field enhancement without requiring complex structured components, thus improving magnetic field gradient while maintaining relatively simple device structure.
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 apparatus effectively separates cells by height using magnetic forces, improving separation performance and preventing re-mixing, thereby enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of cell separation in microfluidic devices.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic field controller that generates a magnetic field within the flow path so that the cells in the cell fluid flow within the flow path and are separated by height by a magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
apparatus for separating cells using magnetic force
Implementation Method 3
a separation channel portion including ferromagnetic particles
Implementation Method 4
a microstructure in which a plurality of protrusions and a plurality of recesses interposed between the protrusions are formed in a repeated manner along the flow direction of the cell fluid in order to increase the gradient of the magnetic field
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for separating cells using magnetic force includes: a separation channel portion including ferromagnetic particles, and provided with a flow path through which a cell fluid containing a plurality of cells having at least one of diamagnetic and paramagnetic properties; and a magnetic field controller that generates a magnetic field within the flow path so that the cells in the cell fluid flow within the flow path and are separated by height by a magnetic field. Accordingly, there are provided an apparatus for separating cells using magnetic force and a cell separation method using the same, by which cells can be easily separated using magnetic force.