A microfluidic device with penetrating microelectrode array for focusing of cells using dielectrophoresis

Here we describe the successful accurate control of position for living cells in a microfluidic device using dielectrophoresis. The microdevice consists of a Polydimethylsiloxane layer, that includes a microchannel, bonded onto a glass substrate. Interdigitated transducer microelectrodes are deposited and patterned on the glass substrate. The device includes two sets of penetrating microelectrode at both side of the channel. The microdevice is fabricated in a cleanroom using standard microfabrication techniques. The position of living cells inside the microchannel is precisely controlled using dielectrophoresis. The experiments are performed using blood cells suspended in low conductivity isotonic sucrose/dextrose solution. The location of the cells along the width of the microchannel depends on the applied voltages and frequencies on both electrodes sets. The fabrication and the successful utilization of the microdevice are reported.