Cell analysis and sorting apparatus for manipulation of cells
AssigneeMassachusetts Institute of Technology
InventorsRebecca Braff, Joel Voldman, Martha Gray, Martin Schmidt, Mehmet Toner
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A cell analysis and sorting apparatus is capable of monitoring over time the behavior of each cell in a large population of cells. The cell analysis and sorting apparatus contains individually addressable cell locations. Each location is capable of capturing and holding a single cell, and selectively releasing that cell from that particular location. In one aspect of the invention, the cells are captured and held in wells, and released using vapor bubbles as a means of cell actuation. In another aspect of the invention, the cells are captured, held and released using electric field traps.
Claims34
A cell sorting apparatus for manipulation of cells comprising:
- an array of geometric sites arranged across a substrate in a defined pattern, each site being dimensioned and configured to hold a single cell, wherein each site includes a capture mechanism comprising a well that is capable of selectively capturing the single cell, and further wherein each site includes a release mechanism comprising an actuator disposed within a chamber attached to the well for selectively releasing the single cell from the site.
Method of making a cell sorting apparatus, comprising the steps of:
- forming a well on one surface of a first substrate, the well being configured and dimensioned to hold a single cell;
- forming a chamber on an opposite surface of the first substrate;
- forming a channel in the first substrate to connect the well and chamber together and permit fluid communication there between;
- forming a heating element on a second substrate;
- positioning the heating element under the chamber;
- and
- attaching the first substrate onto the second substrate such that the second substrate forms the bottom of the chamber.
A cell sorting apparatus for manipulation of cells comprising:
- an array of geometric sites arranged across a substrate in a defined pattern, each site being dimensioned and configured to hold a single cell, wherein each site includes a capture mechanism comprising a non-uniform electric field trap that is capable of producing a potential energy well for selectively capturing the single cell, and a release mechanism for selectively releasing the single cell from the site.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.