ABSTRACT
The paper presents an automated microfluidic device for single-cell immobilization and the use of the device in robotic system for microinjection of substances into cells. The device is made of transparent polymer material and offers the possibility of immobilization of small cells size. The device is composed of a stationary dish to which are attached an immobilization station, a cell-providing station, a cell-extraction station and a cell-removable station. A drivable unit provides a connection between the stations by linear movement of movable plate on the surface of the dish. Several options for cell holding micro-cavities of the immobilization station are developed. The process of immobilization of cells is achieved by applying negative and positive pressure to the cell micro-cavities via the micro pump. A real-time embedded system for control the operation of the device is developed. The design concept of the device has been developed in a way to offer micro-patterned parts to be made by injection molding.
The proposed design of the device and some preliminary test results indicate that the device is suitable for achieving automatic operation and rapid process of immobilization of single cells. The system can be used in robotic systems for microinjection of biological cells.
Keywords: Microfluidic cell-holding device, Cell immobilization, Cell microinjection, Real time embedded system.
