IMPROVED TARGET CELL CONCENTRATION USING DIELECTROPHORESIS (DEP)

摘要

The present invention relates to methods of and devices for concentrating target cells using dielectrophoresis (DEP). In particular, the method allows relatively high throughput of sample (preferably using sample volumes of up to 100ml, or up to 10ml, or up to 1ml) through a microfluidic device in order to allow rapid capture of target cells even when they are present in low concentrations within the sample. The method utilises multiple chambers through which samples will flow, the chambers arranged such that the first capture area has a larger area and faster flow rate than a second chamber, the second chamber being positioned downstream of the first capture area and being smaller with a slower flow rate to further concentrate the material captured in the first capture area.