title: Cell analysis using a multiple internal reflection photonic lab-on-a-chip.
abstract: Here we present a protocol for analyzing cell cultures using a photonic lab-on-a-chip (PhLoC). By using a broadband light source and a spectrometer, the spectrum of a given cell culture with an arbitrary population is acquired. The PhLoC can work in three different regimes: light scattering (using label-free cells), light scattering plus absorption (using stained cells) and, by subtraction of the two former regimes, absorption (without the scattering band). The acquisition time of the PhLoC is ∼30 ms. Hence, it can be used for rapid cell counting, dead/live ratio estimation or multiparametric measurements through the use of different dyes. The PhLoC, including microlenses, micromirrors and microfluidics, is simply fabricated in a single-mask process (by soft lithographic methods) using low-cost materials. Because of its low cost it can easily be implemented for point-of-care applications. From raw substrates to final results, this protocol can be completed in 29 h.
authors.affiliation: Centre Nacional de Microelectrònica (IMB-CNM, CSIC), Barcelona, Spain.
authors.forename: Jordi
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Vila-Planas
authors.forename: Elisabet
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Fernández-Rosas
authors.forename: Bergoi
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Ibarlucea
authors.forename: Stefanie
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Demming
authors.forename: Carme
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Nogués
authors.forename: Jose A
authors.initials: JA
authors.lastname: Plaza
authors.forename: Carlos
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Domínguez
authors.forename: Stephanus
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Büttgenbach
authors.forename: Andreu
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Llobera
mesh_terms: D002460:Cell Line; D022082:Cellular Structures; D006801:Humans; D056656:Lab-On-A-Chip Devices; D046210:Microfluidic Analytical Techniques; D044085:Microfluidics / Q000379:methods*; D017785:Photons; D013057:Spectrum Analysis / Q000379:methods*; D013194:Staining and Labeling