Enhanced Microfluidic Flow Cytometry Solutions

Use case

Offers a compact, precise alternative to traditional methods by using hydrodynamic sheath flow to align cells for high-sensitivity analysis and sorting.

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Hydrodynamic sheath focusing

This method centers cells within a microfluidic channel using a sheath fluid, optimizing conditions for cytometry and cell sorting.

Optimized for sensitivity

Our use case package includes the Elveflow OB1 flow controller, renowned for its fast response and pulsation-free control, ensuring the accuracy and stability of the sheath flow.

Versatile channel materials

The microchannels are constructed from optically transparent materials such as PMMA or COP, providing low dispersion and birefringence, ideal for optical detection systems.

Highlights

Sheath flow focusing in microfluidic channels has transformed cytometry, providing a precise and efficient method for detecting and measuring the chemical and physical characteristics of cells, with the added potential for cell sorting. This microfluidic flow cytometry use case is designed to offer researchers a complete system for high-sensitivity analysis, enabling applications such as distinguishing between necrotic and apoptotic cells or conducting cell proliferation assays.

Our solution is built around the highly accurate Elveflow OB1 flow controller and a sheath flow chip, offering an all-inclusive package for setting up a microfluidic cytometry system. This system ensures that all essential components are included, providing a seamless setup experience supported by our expert guidance and easy-to-follow user guides.

The core principle of sheath flow streams is to align cells precisely at the center of the microfluidic channel, which is crucial for accurate cytometry. The standard configuration includes two pumping channels: one dedicated to pushing the sample towards the microfluidic chip, and the other responsible for pumping the sheath fluid. The precision of the flow rates in both streams directly affects the stability and accuracy of cell focusing, which can be finely controlled and monitored using our versatile Galileo flow sensor.

The microchannels, made from either PMMA (Poly(methyl methacrylate)) or COP (Cyclic Olefin Polymer), are optically transparent with low dispersion and birefringence, making them ideal for cytometry applications. This transparency allows for the easy integration of a light detection system directly above the microfluidic channel, facilitating real-time analysis.

Moreover, this system supports cell sorting through its innovative design, which includes five outlet channels and two junctions. By applying positive or negative pressure at the outlet, target cells can be collected at different locations, providing flexibility and precision in your cytometry applications.

This comprehensive microfluidic flow cytometry solution is designed to meet the needs of modern research, offering accuracy, flexibility, and ease of use in a single, integrated package.

Setup

The microfluidic flow cytometry use case comes equipped with everything needed to start your experiments. The package includes:

OB1 MK4 Flow Controller
Precision control for maintaining stable flow rates in both sample and sheath streams.
Microfluidic Flow Sensors
For accurate monitoring and adjustment of flow rates.
Microfluidic Chip
A high-quality chip from Microfluidic ChipShop, designed for optimal sheath flow cytometry.
Essential Accessories
Including tubing, connectors, and filters for seamless integration and setup.
User-Friendly Software
The Galileo user interface simplifies control and monitoring, making it accessible even for those new to microfluidics.

Applications

Spheroids, as 3D cell structures, more accurately replicate cell-to-cell interactions and the in vivo environment compared to monolayer cultures. They are particularly valuable in cancer research as tumor models but are also useful for studying other diseases, such as neurodegenerative conditions.

Microfluidic technology enhances spheroid culture by providing controlled shear stress, reducing reagent use, and allowing for long-term, automated experiments. This method has been successfully employed in drug screening, leading to more precise and reliable results while reducing reliance on animal models.

Configuration

Our microfluidic flow cytometry use case is highly customizable to meet specific research needs:

Sheath Stream Customization
Adjust the flow rates to optimize cell separation and analysis.
Material Options
Choose between PMMA for strength or COP for superior optical properties.
Channel Depth Variations
Select from chips with different channel depths to suit your experimental requirements.
Bubble Removal Solutions
Optional bubble removers ensure smooth operation, crucial for sensitive cytometry applications.

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