Flow-through Cell Separation using Antigen-Antibody Interaction between Cell and Wall Surface

摘要

We report the development of a continuous label-free micro cell separation method for extraction of rare cells from a limited amount of sample. The separation principle is based on specific adhesion between cells and antibody-functionalized channel wall. Asymmetric pattern of antibody on the wall surface causes cross-flow displacement of the target cells, and they are separated from the other cells. Antibody-immobilized channel wall is fabricated with a versatile technique using functionalized parylene, and the oblique antibody pattern is microfabricated by etching trenches into the channel surface. We found that biotin-coated beads in a streptavidinimmobilized micro channel, which mimic target cells in an antibody-immobilized micro channel, are displaced in the cross-flow direction by 0.8% of the traveling distance. Cross-stream separation with a mixture containing target and non-target beads is also demonstrated.