Multilayer architecture microfluidic network array for combinatorial drug testing on 3D-cultured cells.

In vitro testing of drug compounds on cell models during the drug development process represents an indispensable step in the initial screening process. Although drug testing on three-dimensional (3D) cultured cells may provide a more accurate prediction of drug efficacy, it is relatively costly and time-consuming to perform compared with conventional 2D cultures due to the thick z-axis of the 3D models. In this study, we have presented a microfluidic platform with integrated pneumatic valves for producing a thin-gel 3D cell culture-based combinatorial drug screening array (3D-μCDS array).

A PDMS-Based Microfluidic Hanging Drop Chip for Embryoid Body Formation.

The conventional hanging drop technique is the most widely used method for embryoid body (EB) formation. However, this method is labor intensive and limited by the difficulty in exchanging the medium. Here, we report a microfluidic chip-based approach for high-throughput formation of EBs.

An integrated microfluidic system for screening of phage-displayed peptides specific to colon cancer cells and colon cancer stem cells.

Affinity reagents recognizing biomarkers specifically are essential components of clinical diagnostics and target therapeutics. However, conventional methods for screening of these reagents often have drawbacks such as large reagent consumption, the labor-intensive or time-consuming procedures, and the involvement of bulky or expensive equipment. Alternatively, microfluidic platforms could potentially automate the screening process within a shorter period of time and reduce reagent and sample consumption dramatically.

Stem cells in microfluidics.

Microfluidic techniques have been recently developed for cell-based assays. In microfluidic systems, the objective is for these microenvironments to mimic in vivo surroundings. With advantageous characteristics such as optical transparency and the capability for automating protocols, different types of cells can be cultured, screened, and monitored in real time to systematically investigate their morphology and functions under well-controlled microenvironments in response to various stimuli.

An integrated microfluidic system for isolation, counting, and sorting of hematopoietic stem cells.

This study reports an integrated microfluidic system capable of isolation, counting, and sorting of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) from cord blood in an automatic format by utilizing a magnetic-bead-based immunoassay. Three functional modules, including cell isolation, cell counting, and cell sorting modules are integrated on a single chip by using microfluidic technology. The cell isolation module is comprised of a four-membrane-type micromixer for binding of target stem cells and magnetic beads, two pneumatic micropumps for sample transport, and an S-shaped channel for isolation of HSCs using a permanent magnet underneath.

A microfluidic device for separation of amniotic fluid mesenchymal stem cells utilizing louver-array structures.

Human mesenchymal stem cells can differentiate into multiple lineages for cell therapy and, therefore, have attracted considerable research interest recently. This study presents a new microfluidic device for bead and cell separation utilizing a combination of T-junction focusing and tilted louver-like structures. For the first time, a microfluidic device is used for continuous separation of amniotic stem cells from amniotic fluids.

The culture and differentiation of amniotic stem cells using a microfluidic system.

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have the potential to differentiate into multiple tissue lineages for cell therapy and, therefore, have attracted considerable interest recently. In this study, a new microfluidic system is presented which can culture and differentiate MSCs in situ. It is composed of several components, including stem cell culture areas, micropumps, microgates, seeding reservoirs, waste reservoirs and fluid microchannels; all fabricated by using micro-electro-mechanical-systems (MEMS) technology.