CD-Based Microfluidic Device for Automated Immobilization and Microinjection of Biological Cells

The paper presents the design concept of automatic CD-based polymer microfluidic device for single cell immobilization applicable for use in robotic system for microinjection of substances into cells. The device is also provided for use as a standalone system for cell immobilization for their research and to carry out various micro- manipulations with cells. Key role in the functioning of the device plays a CD-based polymer substrate, on whose surface is specifically located microstructure in the form of micro-grooves for immobilization of cells. At the bottom of the micro-grooves are made suction holes. Immobilization of cells is achieved through the subatmospheric pressure provided by micro pump, connected to the micro-grooves by suction holes. The structure of the substrate is provided to be produced by injection molding. A possibility of using CD-based technology in injection moulding of the micro-patterned substrate is discussed. An approach to study the substrate through computer simulation by the finite element method is presented. In order to achieve an appropriate location and size of microstructure on the polymer substrate, impact of geometrical parameters of the gating system and the size, dimensions and location of the microstructure of the substrate on the mold filling is investigated. By means of iterative steps in the frame of the simulation codes, a series of values of the microstructure parameters are obtained and relevant versions of the substrate design with the deployment of cell-grooves are achieved. The present design of the CD-based substrate and the approach for investigation of substrate can find applications in the construction of CD-based devices for immobilization of biological cells for research or micro-injection of cells.