Researchers at UCLA have developed a continuous, whole-chip, three-dimensional dielectrophoretic (DEP) cell sorting device, integrating multi-layer microfluidics and electrode geometries to sort cells or particles throughout the thickness of a microfluidic chip, not merely at a single plane.
Microfluidic cell sorting is vital in many biomedical applications (e.g. diagnostics, single cell analysis, cell therapy). Conventional DEP sorters typically operate in 2D or at single planar electrode interfaces, limiting throughput, spatial sorting depth, or the ability to manipulate cells across the full chip thickness. Particles outside the active plane may not be sorted effectively, and cells may drift vertically or bypass sorting electrodes. A 3D DEP sorter that can manipulate particles across the full channel depth in a continuous flow is highly desirable for robust, high-efficiency separation.
The invention implements stacked electrode layers and multi-passages within a microfluidic chip, creating non-uniform electric fields in three dimensions to exert DEP forces throughout the channel depth.
Multiple fluidic passages are arranged in a “sideways-H” or multi-pass geometry so that cells or particles traverse several regions where DEP fields become effective.
The design ensures that cells from one passage can migrate laterally (via DEP) into another passage over the vertical dimension, effectively sorting them across depth.
The chip integrates insulating layers (e.g. PDMS or composite PDMS layers) to isolate electrode layers and shape field gradients.
The method allows continuous, high-throughput sorting of cells or particles based on dielectric properties, not just size or hydrodynamic behavior.
True 3D sorting capability across the full chip thickness, not just at a single focal plane.
Continuous operation, enabling processing of streams of cells/particles rather than batch or static steps.
Greater throughput and yield compared to planar DEP sorters, since no particles are “lost” outside the active plane.
Flexibility in geometry: multiple passages and electrode layers can be tailored to desired sorting thresholds.
Integration potential for downstream microfluidic modules (e.g. analysis, culture, collection).
Useful for enriched separation of subtle dielectric differences among cells/particles beyond size separation.
Cell sorting for research and clinical applications (e.g. isolating rare cell populations, circulating tumor cells).
Particle or bead sorting in microfluidic assays.
Sample preparation in single-cell genomics, proteomics, or cytometry.
Lab-on-chip systems where integrated sorting is needed prior to downstream analysis (e.g. PCR, imaging).
Biomanufacturing or microfluidics in diagnostics, biotechnology, or pharmaceutical labs.
US 9,770,721 B2 — Continuous Whole-Chip 3-Dimensional DEP Cell Sorter and Related Fabrication Method Continuous whole-chip 3D DEP cell sorter (US9770721B2) Google Patents