A feasible approach to all-electronic digital labeling and readout for cell identification.
We present two critical innovations that enable a unique, purely electronic approach to microfluidic whole-cell analysis, focusing on the problem of cell identification and sorting. We used fully-scalable lithographic techniques to microfabricate digital barcodes, providing a means for low-cost, large volume production. We have demonstrated molecular functionalization of the barcodes, using biotin-streptavidin, as well as human CD4 antibody, and we have successfully linked the barcodes to polystyrene beads using the biotin-streptavidin complex. This functionalization allows unique barcodes to be attached to specific cell types, based on phenotype. We have also implemented an electronic barcode readout scheme, using a radio frequency microsensor integrated in an elastomeric microfluidic channel, that can read individual barcodes at rates in excess of 1000 labels s(-1). The barcodes are biologically compatible, and coupled with the electronic sensing technology, provide a route to compact, inexpensive, disposable cell identification, sorting and purification.
Wood
D K
DK
Department of Physics, University of California at Santa Barbara, Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA.
Braun
G B
GB
Fraikin
J-L
JL
Swenson
L J
LJ
Reich
N O
NO
Cleland
A N
AN
D001709:Biotechnology / Q000379:methods; D001710:Biotin / Q000737:chemistry; D015704:CD4 Antigens / Q000737:chemistry*; D003201:Computers; D001330:Electronic Data Processing; D004581:Electronics; D006801:Humans; D044085:Microfluidics / Q000295:instrumentation*; D025202:Molecular Diagnostic Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation; D011137:Polystyrenes / Q000737:chemistry; D011846:Radio Waves; D012984:Software; D019809:Streptavidin / Q000737:chemistry; D013997:Time Factors
D015704:CD4 Antigens; D011137:Polystyrenes; D001710:Biotin; D019809:Streptavidin