An integrated optofluidic platform for Raman-activated cell sorting

Lab Chip. 2008 Jul;8(7):1116-20. doi: 10.1039/b803598a. Epub 2008 May 28.

Abstract

We report on integrated optofluidic Raman-activated cell sorting (RACS) platforms that combine multichannel microfluidic devices and laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy (LTRS) for delivery, identification, and simultaneous sorting of individual cells. The system allows label-free cell identification based on Raman spectroscopy and automated continuous cell sorting. Two optofluidic designs using hydrodynamic focusing and pinch-flow fractionation are evaluated based on their sorting design and flow velocity effect on the laser trapping efficiency at different laser power levels. A proof-of-principle demonstration of the integrated optofluidic LTRS system for the identification and sorting of two leukemia cell lines is presented. This functional prototype lays the foundation for the development of a label-free cell sorting platform based on intrinsic Raman markers for automated sampling and sorting of a large number of individual cells in solution.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Cell Separation / instrumentation*
  • Lymphocytes / cytology
  • Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Optics and Photonics*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman / instrumentation*