Optofluidic Microsorter: an integrated flow cytometry instrument for cell biology applications

摘要

While conventional flow cytometers are still the standard for high speed, multi-parametric cell sorting, for some applications a microfluidic-based approach is advantageous. In particular, the small-scale microfluidic platform enables handling of small numbers of cells (100's - 100,000's) with high yield, a task that is not practical with conventional flow cytometers. This feature particularly benefits applications with primary cells that cannot be expanded to large populations or any otherwise precious cells. Assay miniaturization and reduced reagent consumption also become possible. Having the biological sample loaded onto an inexpensive, self-contained disposable device ensures a sterile and nuclease-free environment, minimizes sample carryover, and facilitates safe handling of biohazardous materials. Most importantly, as has been proposed for other lab-on-a-chip devices, the potential exists for further functionality integrated on-chip such as sample preparation, cell incubation, chemical analysis, PCR, or other assays of the sorted populations.