Automated cell culture in high density tubeless microfluidic device arrays

TLDR

Microfluidics promises significant advances in life‑sciences research, yet current methods are incompatible with standard laboratory liquid‑dispensing and detection systems, creating a barrier to adoption that underscores the need for more user‑friendly, standardized, and automated platforms. The study introduces a platform that harnesses surface‑tension‑driven pressure differences between drops of unequal volume to propel flow through passive microfluidic structures. The platform operates by exploiting pressure differences between drops of unequal volume, using surface tension to drive flow through passive microfluidic structures. The platform integrates seamlessly with existing laboratory infrastructure, enabling pumping, routing, and compartmentalization without discrete micro‑components, and supports cell patterning in both monolayer and three‑dimensional cultures.

Abstract

Microfluidics is poised to have an impact on life sciences research. However, current microfluidic methods are not compatible with existing laboratory liquid dispensing and detection infrastructure. This incompatibility is a barrier to adoption of microfluidic systems and calls for improved approaches that will enhance performance and promote acceptance of microfluidic systems in the life sciences. Ease of use, standardized interfaces and automation remain critical challenges. We present a platform based on surface tension effects, where the difference in pressure inside drops of unequal volume drives flow in passive structures. We show integration with existing laboratory infrastructure, microfluidic operations such as pumping, routing and compartmentalization without discrete micro-components as well as cell patterning in both monolayer and three-dimensional cell culture.