Well Array Microfluidic Chip for Label-Free Cell Sorting and Counting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing cell sorting technologies are limited by the number of output channels and lack integrated cell counting capabilities, requiring separate devices for sorting and counting, and current methods for predicting plant diseases like Sclerotinia stem rot (SSR) are imprecise and economically inefficient.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic chip with a well array and dielectrophoresis (DEP) for sorting and capturing polarizable agents, combined with non-faradaic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (nF-EIS) for label-free quantification and identification, allowing for multisectorial sorting and counting of cells or spores.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) or magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) is used, then cell sorting can be achieved, but the sample requires prior labeling with fluorescent stains or magnetic microbeads, increasing device complexity and preparation time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/chemical labeling systems (fluorescent stains, magnetic microbeads) with an electrical field-based sorting mechanism. Dielectrophoresis uses non-uniform electric fields to manipulate cells based on their intrinsic dielectric properties, eliminating the need for external labels and reducing preparation complexity while maintaining sorting capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent enables cells to sort themselves based on their inherent dielectric characteristics without requiring external labeling agents. Each cell's natural response to the electric field, determined by its membrane properties and internal structure, serves as its unique identifier, allowing label-free separation of different cell types
2Adaptability or versatility
If dielectrophoresis activated cell sorting (DACS) with multiple output channels is used, then different cell types can be sorted, but the number of sorted cell types is limited by the number of outlets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from a one-dimensional sorting approach (multiple outlets along a channel) to a two-dimensional array configuration where electrodes are arranged in grid patterns. This allows multiple trapping positions to be addressed independently, enabling sorting of many more cell types without proportionally increasing the number of physical outlets, as cells can be directed to specific positions in the array based on their dielectric properties
3Measurement precision
If additional cell counting structures such as microfluidic Coulter counters are employed, then the number of sorted cells can be detected, but the overall system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the cell sorting function and cell counting function into a single integrated platform. The same dielectrophoresis electrodes used for sorting also serve as sensing elements for detection, and the trapping positions themselves provide the counting capability. This merger eliminates the need for separate Coulter counter structures, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining both sorting and counting functionalities
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a multi-functional device where the electrode array serves multiple purposes: generating electric fields for dielectrophoretic sorting, detecting cell presence through impedance changes, and providing spatial positioning for cell counting. This universal structure performs sorting, detection, and quantification functions simultaneously, eliminating the need for dedicated separate components for each function
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
Enables efficient, label-free sorting and counting of various cell types or spores in a single device, with high accuracy and flexibility to adjust for different samples, and provides precise prediction of plant disease risk.
Implementation Method 1
providing a voltage between adjacent electrodes to generate a dielectrophoresis (DEP) force to capture the polarizable agents
Implementation Method 2
measuring the electrical impedance across adjacent electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
The microfluidic chip and the microfluidic system of the present invention provides a unique integration of a microfluidic chip and a label-free quantification process. The microfluidic chip uses well arrays and dielectrophoresis (DEP) to capture a polarizable agent in a well. Once the polarizable agents have been captured, non-faradaic electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (nF-EIS) measurements can be performed to quantify the polarizable agent.