Droplets
Each cell has unique properties that make it different from other cells. Recent studies show that heterogeneity occurs even within small cell populations. By investigating cells one by one (single-cell analysis) we can create more sensitive biological analysis, since it is possible to know that the results come from that specific cell and is not an average of thousands of cells. This will reveal new insights what causes diseases e.g. how cancer spreads and also be a tool to find better drugs.
Our research aims to develop new methods to study single cells by using droplet microfluidics. Individual cells are encapsulated in nano- and picoliter sized water droplets, and each droplet works as a miniaturized compartment for biological experiments. Specifically, we use acoustophoresis to manipulate cells and particles inside droplets. This opens up for more complex droplet-based assays that are not possible to perform today.
References
Fornell A. et al., An acoustofluidic platform for non-contact trapping of cell-laden hydrogel droplets compatible with optical microscopy, Biomicrofluidics, 2019, 13, 044101
Fornell A. et al., Intra-droplet acoustic particle focusing: simulations and experimental observations, Microfluid Nanofluid, 2018, 22, 75
Fornell A. et al., Binary particle separation in droplet microfluidics using acoustophoresis, Appl Phys Lett, 2018, 112, 063701
Fornell A. et al., An intra-droplet particle switch for droplet microfluidics using bulk acoustic waves, Biomicrofluidics, 2017, 11, 031101
Fornell A. et al., Controlled Lateral Positioning of Microparticles Inside Droplets Using Acoustophoresis, Anal Chem, 2015, 87, 10521-105626