Droplet-based cell culture and cell assays using digital microfluidics

A method of performing droplet-based cell culture, comprising the steps of:

• a) providing a digital microfluidic device comprising:
• an array of actuating electrodes formed on a substrate surface;
• and
• a coating formed on the substrate surface, the coating providing a working surface;
• wherein said actuating electrodes are connectable to an actuating electrode controller for exciting or de-exciting the actuating electrodes for translating liquid droplets over the working surface;
• b) providing a cell-containing droplet at a location on the working surface, the cell-containing droplet containing cells and cell culture medium;
• c) incubating the digital microfluidic device in a controlled environment to culture the cells;
• d) actuating electrodes of the array to dispense a droplet containing cell culture media to the cell-containing droplet;
• and
• e) incubating the digital microfluidic device in the controlled environment to further culture the cells.