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# Fluigent - Fluigent
Smart Microfluidics
## Posts
### [News](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
---
### [Collaboration with RAN Biotechnologies](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
**Published:** April 9, 2026
**Author:** doaa
**Content:**
The collaboration between Fluigent and **[RAN Biotechnologies](https://www.ranbiotechnologies.com/)** supports the development of advanced droplet microfluidics solutions, with the integration of 008-FluoroSurfactant into the **[Fluigent catalog](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/catalog/)**. RAN Biotechnologies is recognized for its expertise in droplet microfluidics reagents, widely validated across numerous peer-reviewed publications.
Designed to ensure the formation of stable and monodisperse droplets, [**008-FluoroSurfactan**t](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/) is suited for a range of demanding applications, including digital, single-cell workflows, and droplet sorting. It offers robust performance under thermal and mechanical stress while maintaining compatibility with enzymes, DNA, and living cells.
Combined with **[Fluigent pressure-driven flow control systems](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)**, 008-FluoroSurfactant contributes to improved reproducibility and reliability across droplet-based workflows, from generation to encapsulation and downstream analysis.
[Learn more about 008-FluoroSurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
**Categories:** Company news, Product news
---
### [Fluigent 15th year anniversary celebration](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-15th-year-anniversary-celebration/)
**Published:** October 22, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
We took this opportunity to celebrate Microfluidics and the expansion of its applications and uses by organizing two scientific conferences with key opinion leaders.
During two days, we hosted 6 conferences of eminent scientists in microfluidics?
Séverine Le Gac, Charles Baroud, Raphaël Tomasi, David A. Weitz, Dimitrios Lamprou, Andrew deMello and Jean-Louis Viovy inspired more than 300 participants with their knowledge and vision.
Here you can see photos and videos of the cocktail and product demonstrations but also replay the conferences of the most important actors in the field of microfluidics.
\#Fluigent # Celebration # conferences # eminent scientists # event #microfluidics #innovation
[WATCH THE REPLAY HERE](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-lectures-interviews/)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Alain's Experience at Medica](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/medica-2023/)
**Published:** November 21, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
As the **Chief Sales Officer (CSO)** at Fluigent, I aim to participate in multiple conferences and exhibitions in the life sciences field. Following my attendance at a recent international exhibition, **Medica**, I am delighted to share my reflections on the current evolution of the market, particularly in the rapidly growing field of **microfluidics**.
Medica not only confirmed the vitality of the medical devices sector but also highlighted exciting opportunities through laboratory instruments. **Technological advances**, especially in the fields of analysis and diagnostics, strengthen our conviction that Fluigent remains the forefront of innovation.
A significant moment during this event was a lecture by **Bruno Charléty**, Fluigent’s product manager, in front of stakeholders from around the world. This presentation showcased our latest innovations and garnered considerable interest. Microfluidics was emphasized as a key area where significant technological advances are being made.
A notable trend at Medica was the rapid emergence of microfluidics in the field of **cell analysis**, a development that continues to evolve. Just a few years ago, only a handful of companies integrated microfluidic technologies in their laboratory experiments. Today, innovation in research instrumentation almost systematically relies on microfluidic technologies. It is a source of pride for us, as we have been striving for over 15 years to bring this technology to laboratories worldwide through our historical range of laboratory instruments.
As a provider of **OEM microfluidic solutions**, we are more determined than ever to meet the changing demands of the global market. Medica provided an exceptional opportunity to showcase our latest innovations, establish strong partnerships, and contribute to shaping the promising future of the medical devices market, with the product manager’s address as a highlight.
After **25 years** in the medical industrial sector for analysis devices and instruments, and three days at Medica, I have confirmation of the rise of microfluidics in this sector. Microfluidics, which is omnipresent in the world of research, is only just beginning to penetrate the **industrial** world. I am excited to see the growing interest of manufacturers in microfluidics, and this is just the beginning! The turnout at our booth is evidence of this!
*Make your own drink activity* – *Medica 2023*
*Group photo* – *Medica 2023*
*Booth – Medica 2023*
## More Recent News
[
Company news### Collaboration with RAN Biotechnologies
April 9, 2026
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company news### micro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a Chip
September 1, 2025
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company news### A Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers
August 30, 2024
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company news### Insights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics
July 16, 2024
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Navigating Success: A Year in Review at Fluigent – Client Chronicles and Company Highlights](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/a-year-in-review-at-fluigent-2023/)
**Published:** December 14, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
Step into the dynamic world of Fluigent as we reflect on a remarkable year of achievements, collaborations, success, and growth.
In our video review, “**Client Chronicles: A Year in Client Engagement**,” provides a comprehensive overview of Fluigent’s global presence and achievements in **2023**. Fluigent participated in prestigious events worldwide, from **San Diego** to **Osaka** through **Berlin**, showcasing its impact at events like **MPS & EUROoCS World Summit** in **Berlin**, **MicroTAS** in **Katowice**, **Poland**, and **Medica** in **Düsseldorf**.
Our journey extended across the United States, from **SelectBIO’s Lab-on-a-Chip & Microfluidics World Congress** in **Laguna Hills to Cell Bio** in **Boston**, where the energy and enthusiasm of the microfluidics community were truly inspiring.
Delve into our Harmony Beyond Borders, featuring impactful events in **Japan**, **South Korea**, **China**, and **India**, alongside our dedicated distributors and our significant meeting with our valued distributors in **Singapore.** Explore the Ambassadorial Allure, where we welcomed eight influential ambassadors and formed a groundbreaking partnership with the Scientific Center of **The IPGG Technology platform**.
Additionally, it covers exclusive interview with **Mr. Gaspard Pardon** and insights from **Julia Sophie Böke** of Leibniz IPHT Jena, highlighting Fluigent’s impact in Microfluidic research. The journey continues with reflections on Fluigent’s accomplishments, including its success in the OEM market.
The video concludes with Company Highlights, showcasing our vibrant team culture, nomination as an ‘**Made in Val-de-Marne**‘ Ambassador, welcoming new team members, and celebrating special events throughout the year, expressing gratitude to our customers, partners, and the Fluigent team for a year of innovation and collaboration. **Thank you** for being part of the Fluigent story, and here’s to another year of innovation, collaboration, and shared success together.
**France HAMBER, our Chief Executive Officer**, said: I am happy to see that in 2023 microfluidics is increasingly becoming an essential tool for Lab Workflow Automation. This technology has the advantage of delivering reductions in both cost and time, as well as being a new alternative for drug discovery through in vitro methods as opposed to testing on animals. I am proud that Fluigent is taking the lead in this market by delivering a step change in performance for next generation Life Sciences.
**Sabine MERCIER, our CFO Chief Financial Officer and HRD Humand Ressources Director**, said: I am delighted to have welcomed our new colleagues in 2023, who have brought us their skills, ideas and energy.
And very proud of the achievements of our Fluigent Collective, driven by the satisfaction of our Researcher and Industrial customers and at the top of technical & scientific innovation.
Looking forward to next year to continue the adventure!
## More Recent News
[
Company news### Collaboration with RAN Biotechnologies
April 9, 2026
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company news### micro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a Chip
September 1, 2025
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company news### A Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers
August 30, 2024
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company news### Insights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics
July 16, 2024
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [France Hamber interview about SLAS EUROPE 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-ceo-slas-europe-2023/)
**Published:** June 20, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
Discover the insights from our CEO’s participation in **SLAS EUROPE 2023**. Learn about Fluigent’s role as a leading flow control provider for **microfluidics**, the market trends and expectations for 2023, our innovative technologies, and the services we offer in the **industry** and **research sectors**. Don’t miss our upcoming events like **Organoids and Spheroids Europe 2023** and **MPS World Summit 2023.**
## 1/ Why was Fluigent an exhibitor at SLAS 2023?
**Microfluidics** is becoming increasingly recognized in the scientific and industrial fields as a revolution thanks to its capacity to save samples & reagents, shorten experiment times, and reduce costs. The emergence of **organ-on-a-chip** and droplet microfluidics is a key technology and a new step in diagnostics and drug discovery.
As the leader in flow control for microfluidics, Fluigent needed to be present.
We had the opportunity to discuss with industrials and researchers and to understand the trends of the **life science** fields, as well as the limitations they currently face. We presented our pioneering technologies and solutions to respond to customer’s pain points and create a better business outcome. It also reinforced our understanding of the future challenges in terms of fluid control and automation for life science applications, and how **Fluigent** will address them through our advanced product portfolio.
## 2/ What did you notice about the market and the expectations for 2023?
It was noticeable to see so many actors in the biological and life sciences field making use of **microfluidics** and their associated technologies. It was not a surprise since microfluidics clearly has a role to play in the future of the biological field, but it was interesting to see such expansion, especially in European industries.
During the event, two subjects stood out. First, the actual need and constant demand for automation in laboratory experiments. This is a real opportunity for us since one of our key areas of expertise is our capacity to automate lab protocols using our products and accessories.
We are already capable of answering this demand with high performance. A good illustration is our Automated Sequential Injection device **‘Aria’** dedicated to multiplexing and localization microscopy protocols, or our newly launched **‘Omi’** an automated platform that helps reproduce the micro physiological behavior of organs.
Secondly, there is a market transition from 2D to 3D cell culture, with the need for more physiologically representative culture methods. As a consequence, the next step is to move further towards more advanced models, which will need perfusion and recirculation protocols with highly accurate flow rates. We already have patented technologies and a range of product to fulfill these needs.
## 3/ What are the innovations within Fluigent?
Since the creation of the company, **Fluigent** has been a pioneer in flow control for microfluidics. The focus of the company is to develop unique technologies and disruptive products to meet the evolving market needs.
For example:
One of our customers had a process involving cells.
He needed to measure and precisely control the flowrate of his liquids, one of them containing cells. He was using the commercially available flow sensing technology which is in contact with the liquid and thus in contact with the cells. But he needed a perfectly clean setup before starting a new protocol and had to clean his flow unit to eliminate any risk of contamination. This was a long process for the customer with a risk of contamination.
Fluigent’s technology permitted the customer to run his process without the fluids being in contact with the flow sensor thus saving customer time and assuring a clean process.
The non-invasive flow sensor (NIFS) invented by **Fluigent** will make the **microfluidics** industry even more competitive.
**Omi**, launched in March, is the smallest and easiest-to-use **automated organ-on-a-chip platform** to allow reproduction of the micro-physiological behavior of organs inside **microfluidic chips**.
## 4/ What services is Fluigent able to offer? And in which market or application?
We are focused on two market segments: industry and research. We develop scientific end-user instruments that can be combined to create microfluidic research protocols. Our industrial offer for equipment manufacturers consists of **OEM modules**, which can be seamlessly integrated into any device thanks to our SDK.
**Fluigent** also provides a fully custom device development service for any company, from start-ups to large international groups. We provide project management from conception to design to manufacturing and operations and thanks to the expertise of our multi-competencies R&D team with more than 17 years of experience in **microfluidics**.
## 5/ What are your future events?
We will be present at many events this year, such as **the Organoids and Spheroids Europe 2023** from the **19th to the 20th of June or the MPS World Summit 2023 from the 26th to the 30th of June.**
Please come and meet the team!
## More content on Fluigent and our CEO
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/thought-leader-france-hamber/)### Thought Leader: France Hamber
[Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/thought-leader-france-hamber/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/our-ceo-one-of-the-20-supexcellence-laureates/)### Our CEO, one of the 20 Sup’Excellence laureates
[Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/our-ceo-one-of-the-20-supexcellence-laureates/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)### Fluigent’s new organ-on-chip platform, Omi
[Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
**Categories:** Company news, Organ-On-Chip
---
### [A Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
**Published:** August 30, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role at Fluigent?
**Aurélien Faitrop**
I’ve been working in the field of quality assurance for over 20 years. My various professional experiences have enabled me to practice quality control from different angles. I spent 15 years working in demanding industries with stringent requirements, including the automotive and cosmetic fields. I then spent 5 years in the acoustic industry, where I ensured the conformity of complex manufacturing processes and the release of high-precision products.
In 2023, I joined Fluigent with a goal of growing the company’s OEM sector.
How are Fluigent quality standards applied to our LineUpTM Flow EZ?
At Fluigent, we take our customers’ quality expectations into account by guiding them through the lifecycle of our LineUp Flow EZ product line, from product development to industrialization, and product validation to release.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/#video)
We developed our Flow EZ in an environment where quality standards are high.
Having an ISO 9001 certification ensures a high level of quality throughout the product development process. This translates into several quality processes and deliverables, including:
- **Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (FMEA) to minimize quality risks and product failures.** During product development, Fluigent carries out an FMEA to minimize risks during development and customer usage.
When product testing our Flow EZ, we perform a **risk analysis** from the selection of components and suppliers and compared it to the risks associated with the product’s use and performance. All aspects were meticulously analyzed and are the subject of a specific plan designed to minimize the risks incurred.
- **Product Reproducibility, Replicability, and Reliability:** At Fluigent, we’re committed to product excellence. That’s why we carry out extensive testing on our products in a customer environment before we bring them to market. Performance tests, temperature resistance tests, drop tests, etc, are mandatory. Numerous prototypes are used to characterize our products and ensure their performance over time.
Our Flow EZ has been tested in several environmental conditions including high (80°C)/low (4°C) temperature cycles and incubator environments. The device continues to pass drop and other failure tests.
Extensive checks guarantee Flow EZ compliance and release
We believe the performance of your liquid handling system is critical for your application. Precision and accuracy depend on the flow controller itself as well as the other components connected to your system.
Product calibration, validation, and the use of test systems are standard at Fluigent and guarantee product performance and a compliant product. When the Flow EZ is produced, it undergoes numerous validations before being sent to the customer. Some of these validations are listed below:
- Performance validation via a dedicated testbench:
- Stability over several pressure ranges
- Pressure sensor calibration
- Rise and fall time
- Measurement accuracy
- Functional validation
- Product communication (software, flow sensors, etc.)
- Stacking validation
- Visual verifications during the whole production process
An ISO 9001 company
FLUIGENT is committed to a structured quality approach and has been iso 9001 certified since 2010.
This approach is designed to improve the reliability of our products and is based on 3 essential pillars: innovation, high standards, and continuous improvement of our processes.
We place customer concerns first and continue to identify areas for improvement.
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
## Related expertises
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
**Categories:** Company news, Fluigent expertise
---
### [Droplet-based microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/droplet-based-microfluidics/)
**Published:** November 15, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
In this expertise white paper, we provide a complete overview on #droplet #microfluidics, including definitions, the physics behind microfluidic droplet generation, the type of materials that can be produced, and related applications.
[Download the white paper](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/)
**Categories:** Fluigent expertise
---
### [micro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July's issue of Lab on a Chip](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
**Published:** September 1, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
A recent paper by Dr. Delannoy from Institut Pasteur Lille, published in the July 2025 issue of *Lab on a Chip*, demonstrates the use of OMI in organ-on-a-chip research. The study models gut physiology, host–microbiome interactions, and the impact of dynamic cell culture.
[Access the Paper](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/lc/d5lc00147a)
[Read the Case Study](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
**Categories:** Company news, Organ-On-Chip, Product news
---
### [Let us celebrate the 9th anniversary of FLUIGENT Germany together! ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/9th-anniversary-fluigent-germany/)
**Published:** May 17, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
This May, if you place an order above the following amounts, you’ll receive one of those **high-end gifts!**
## More than 3500€:
You will receive either a **microscope**, or **vacuum pump** for your setup or
**best rated latest** **noise cancelling Sony headphones: SONY WH-1000XM5**
## More than 8000€:
You’ll be able to choose between a **system camera: SONY Alpha 6100: camera lens 16-50 mm, 7,6 cm Display Touchscreen** or the latest **Lenovo laptop: ThinkPad E15 Gen 4 (15″ Intel)**
## Who can participate?
The promotion is eligible for the highlighted countries which you can find in the map below.
Make your choice and don’t miss the chance to expand your microfluidic set up with this once-in-a-year opportunity!
[Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
**Countries eligible for this Special Offer:**
Watch our funny video: [PROMOTION – 9 Years Anniversay – Fluigent Germany ](https://youtu.be/ToROuU4tOGw)[GmbH](https://youtu.be/ToROuU4tOGw "GmbH")
## Detailed conditions of the Offer
You get one Bonus item per order.
Depending on the order above 3500€ or 8000€ you’ll receive one of those bonuses.
You can choose among 5 available types of Bonus items.
The exact item’s models may vary according to the availability.
If conditions are met choosing of the Bonuses follows in communication with our Sales Representatives.
Bonuses are not eligible for OEM products and solutions or special agreements.
Bonus items are shipped within 2 months from the date of purchase.
The offer is valid throughout May 2023.
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Elevating Collaboration and Inspiration: Unforgettable Team Building Event with Breathtaking Paris Views](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/team-building-2023/)
**Published:** June 27, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent** is thrilled to share the success of our recent **team building event** that brought our employees together for an unforgettable experience. Against the backdrop of stunning **Paris** and **Montmartre** views from a rooftop venue, our team engaged in activities designed to foster **unity**, **collaboration**, and **motivation.**
Colleagues showcased their problem-solving skills and teamwork through quizzes, games, and challenges, igniting a friendly and exhilarating competition. The breathtaking location added an extra touch of excitement and inspiration, creating a truly unique and **memorable atmosphere.**
Beyond the fun and games, the event highlighted the importance of building **strong relationships** and creating lasting memories. Colleagues had the opportunity to bond on a personal level, strengthening our **sense of camaraderie** and **team spirit.**
The success of the event is a testament to the meticulous planning and dedication of our organizing team. Their attention to detail ensured that every moment was filled with excitement and enjoyment, aligning perfectly with our company’s commitment to fostering a positive and collaborative **work culture.**
We continues to pursue excellence and innovation, this **team building** event served as a catalyst for enhanced collaboration and fresh inspiration. With strengthened bonds and renewed motivation, we are poised to conquer new challenges and achieve even greater **success together.**
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Meet Karolina Sobeczek, Fluigent Germany’s Business Development Manager for Eastern Europe](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/karolina-sobeczek/)
**Published:** September 28, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
Karolina has been working with us for 2 years while completing a PhD in Health Sciences. She is now responsible for the Baltic Countries and Eastern Europe with a focus on:
- Poland
- Czech Republic
- Slovakia
## Contact Karolina here:
[Karolina](https://www.linkedin.com/in/karolinasobeczek/ "Karolina") was introduced to the microfluidics world through a company , where she worked with bioprinters, bioinks, and pressure fluctuations.
### Information
Business Development Manager
Tel: +48 505 599 334
Mail: [karolina.sobeczek@fluigent.com](mailto:simon.renard@fluigent.com)
**Fluigent Deutschland GmbH**
Carl-Zeiss-Platz 3
07743 Jena, Germany
### A fun fact about Karolina is:
She enjoys spending her free time in an apiary, where she helps her family with bees and other pollinators. Karolina feels that nature is her “safe space”.
Learn more about the Fluigent team here
[Our Team](https://www.fluigent.com/company/team/)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Insights from Fluigent's Innovator in Microfluidics ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
**Published:** July 16, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Product Manager Interview**
Can you introduce yourself and tell us about your role at Fluigent?
After earning an engineering degree in Switzerland and spending two years working in microfluidics, specifically droplet microfluidics and single-cell analysis, I joined Fluigent as an application engineer in 2019. In 2022, I became the Product Manager at Fluigent. My focus is on delivering successful products to customers through precise product marketing and strategic product planning.
You currently offer a wide variety of smart microfluidic instruments for research. Can you tell us more about your products?
We offer a comprehensive range of solutions for microfluidics, including pressure and vacuum control, flow rate control, microfluidic valve automation, and software control. Our flagship product range, LineUp™, is dedicated to microfluidic flow management, allowing users to select and combine the necessary modules to meet their specific needs.
The range of LineUp™ products is amongst Fluigent’s best-sellers. Can you tell us more about how you developed this solution?
A few years ago, we identified several challenges that microfluidic researchers faced when using existing flow controllers:
- **Syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps:** Although easy to use, these pumps often exhibit performance limitations in flow rate accuracy, stability, and response time, ultimately affecting the results of microfluidic experiments.
- **Former pressure controllers:** While offering improved flow performance over syringe pumps, these controllers were often complex, bulky, and lacked the modularity found in syringe or peristaltic pumps.
Based on these observations, we aimed to provide an optimal solution for microfluidic users by addressing the limitations of existing flow rate controllers. This led to the development of the LineUp™ product range, which we believe is the best solution for flow control available today.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[More information about the LineUp series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/)
You claim the LineUp™ product range is the best solution in microfluidics. Can you explain why?
Our products excel in microfluidics due to the following benefits:
1. **The best performance on the market:** Fluid management needs can vary significantly between microfluidic experiments, requiring long-term flow rate injection with excellent stability, fast response time, high shear stresses and pressures, as well as multiplexing capabilities. We developed the Flow EZ with the goal of providing optimal performance for all types of microfluidic applications. Key innovations include:
- **Self-learning flow control algorithm (Fluigent DFC):** This algorithm addresses issues in microfluidic flow control such as calibration, multi-channel interaction, and resistance changes during experiments. It ensures optimal regulation (no overshoot, high accuracy, fast response time) from the start of the experiment, unlike competitor solutions.
- **Advanced technologies in our pressure controllers:** Our R&D team selected top-tier pressure sensors and solenoid valves, combined with our expertise, to deliver superior performance: <1 second response time, 0.1% precision, 5% accuracy in flow rate control, and a pressure range of -800 mbar to 7000 mbar. These specifications ensure accurate and reproducible microfluidic experiments.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/08/montage.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/07/flow-ez-direct-flow-control.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/07/competitive-system-flow-rate-control.png)
2. **Modular:** We developed five distinct modules, each with a specific function:
- **Flow EZ™ or Push-Pull modules:** Precisely regulate and control pressure and vacuum.
- **LINK module:** Provides communication to a computer for using our OxyGEN software.
- **Adapt:** Connects Flow EZ™ modules with different pressure ranges without additional pressure sources.
- **P-SWITCH:** Multiplies the outlets of the system.
- **SWITCH EZ:** Controls microfluidic valves.
Each microfluidic flow regulator is an independent pressure channel. Users can add or remove modules as needed, allowing up to eight flow control modules to be combined. This design minimizes bench space usage, enables setup adaptation for different experiments, and facilitates sharing the device across multiple laboratory rooms. We recently enhanced customer experience by improving the mechanical connection between the LINK and other modules using magnets on the side panels. Check out our latest video!
3\. **Ease of use through local control:** Our LineUp™ products can be used without a PC. Connect the controllers to the power and pressure supply, and they are ready to use thanks to local knobs and dials. This allows for quick setup and experimentation, enabling users to focus on their experiments rather than the PC. For more complex experiments, the complete flow rate protocol can also be automated using our dedicated OxyGEN software.
On your website, you state that your ‘microfluidic technologies allow you to focus on science, not on the setup’. Why is this so important for innovation?
Scientists and industrials need to focus on their highest-value activities: discoveries, new applications, and new devices. Over the years, we have encountered scientists who spent considerable time developing and assembling their flow controllers. For example, Ph.D. students could spend over six months developing a flow controller before starting their research experiments, only to end up with average equipment.
Our value proposition is to offer ready-to-use, high-end products so users can focus on what matters. By enabling scientists to concentrate on their research, we believe we accelerate innovation and discoveries. Facilitating the development of new tools for diagnostics, therapeutics, and devices helps accelerate their time to market and their impact on society.
## Related Product
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
[
### Pneumatic Valve Controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/p-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
[
### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
## Related Expertises
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### A multiplex microfluidic circuit for blood vessel-on-a-chip perfusion using Fluigent’s FlowEZ
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/)
**Categories:** Company news, Product news
---
### [Adam Meziane: 아시아 진](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/company/news/new-sales-manager-asia/)
**Published:** June 28, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent, 아시아 태평양 지역 영업 매니저로 Adam Meziane 영입**
파리에 본사를 둔 Fluigent는 아시아 태평양 지역의 새로운 영업 관리자로 Adam Meziane을 임명하게 되어 매우 기쁩니다. 8년 이상 Fluigent에서 활발한 경력을 쌓아온 Adam은 미세유체 연구 시장에서 당사의 성장과 전문성 향상에 크게 기여했습니다. R&D 및 애플리케이션 전문 엔지니어로 시작한 그는 회사 내 다양한 핵심 역할을 통해 미세유체에 대한 깊은 이해를 통해 성장하고 있습니다.
Adam의 새로운 목표는 폭넓은 현장 경험과 기술 전문성을 활용하여 아시아 지역의 영업 전략을 이끌고, 고객과 파트너와의 긴밀한 관계를 강화하는 것입니다.
**Adam의 Fluigent 여정: 엔지니어링에서 영업 리더십까지**
Adam은 특히 마케팅 영역에서 괄목할 만한 성장과 성과를 거두며 Fluigent에서의 여정을 이어가고 있습니다. 현장 애플리케이션 전문가에서 제품 관리자로 전향한 Adam은 제품 전략과 출시를 성공적으로 감독하며 현재 영업 관리자로 승진했습니다. 특히 마케팅 분야에서 쌓은 폭넓은 경험을 바탕으로 시장에 대한 깊은 이해와 경쟁 환경을 탐색하는 데 능숙합니다.
**미세유체 연구 시장에 대한 전문성**
미세유체 연구 시장에 대한 Adam의 심도 있는 지식은 고객의 요구를 충족하는 혁신적인 솔루션을 개발하는 데 중요한 역할을 했습니다. 그의 기술 전문성과 현장 경험은 당사가 아시아에서 새로운 길을 모색하고 시장 범위를 확장하는 데 있어 매우 귀중한 자산이 될 것입니다.
**Adam의 한마디**
“Fluigent의 지역 영업 관리자로서 저는 아시아 및 태평양 지역의 연구 시장에서 Fluigent 제품의 활용도를 높이는 데 주력하고 있습니다. 저는 중국, 일본, 한국, 인도, 이스라엘, 호주, 뉴질랜드에 걸쳐 9개의 대리점과 긴밀하게 협력하고 있습니다. 다양한 문화적 배경을 가진 사람들과 협업하면서 다양한 시장에 대한 귀중한 통찰력을 얻을 수 있다는 점에서 큰 기쁨을 느낍니다. Fluigent는 단순히 제품을 판매하는 데 그치지 않고, 이 지역의 연구자들이 일상적인 과학적 발견을 강화하고 프로젝트를 성공으로 이끌 수 있도록 지원하고 있습니다.”
**연구소에서 혁신으로: 한국에서의 기술 시연**
“한국에서의 첫 방문을 공유하게 되어 기쁩니다. 한국 공식대리점인 신코엘앤비와 함께 경북대학교와 네오나노텍을 방문했습니다. 연구소를 방문하는 동안 우리는 물방울 생성, 특히 단순 및 이중 유화액 생성에 우리 제품을 어떻게 사용할 수 있는지 자세히 설명하는 시간을 가졌습니다. 이 기술의 다양한 적용 가능성을 제시하며 활성 성분 캡슐화에 대한 효과를 강조했습니다. 연구원들은 실제 시연과 심도 있는 설명을 통해 고부가가치 제품의 제형 및 제조 분야에서 우리 제품의 잠재력을 직접 확인할 수 있었습니다.”
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/adam-sinco-2.jpg)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/plateform-sinco.jpg)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/adam-sinco-1.jpg)
**앞으로의 전망**
Adam의 비전 있는 리더십 아래 Fluigent가 아시아 태평양 지역에서 새로운 지평을 열 뿐만 아니라 과학계의 발전에 중요한 역할을 할 수 있기를 기대합니다. 시장 확장에 대한 그의 전략적 접근 방식은 연구자의 역량을 강화하고 과학적 발견을 강화하는 데 중점을 둡니다. Adam은 과학 커뮤니티와의 관계를 더욱 공고히 함으로써 도전을 혁신과 성공의 기회로 전환하는 데 전념하고 있습니다.
새로운 역할을 맡게 된 Adam을 환영하고 Fluigent와 미세유체 연구 분야의 발전을 위해 최선을 다하는 그의 앞날을 기원하는 데 동참해 주세요.
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Adam Meziane, 在亚洲事业取得进展](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/company/news/new-perspective-for-asia/)
**Published:** June 25, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fluigent庆祝Adam Meziane担任亚太地区销售经理
总部位于巴黎的Fluigent公司欣然宣布任命Adam Meziane为亚太地区的新销售经理。Adam在Fluigent长达八年之久的职业生涯充满活力，为公司在微流控研究市场的发展和专业知识探索做出了重大贡献。起初他担任研发和应用专家工程师，之后不断进步，在公司担任各种重要职务，无不展示他对微流控技术的深刻理解。
对于新职位，Adam将利用他丰富的现场经验和技术专长，主导我们在亚洲地区的销售战略，旨在增强市场影响力，并与客户和合作伙伴建立更深层次的联系。
Adam在Fluigent的职业发展之旅：从工程师到销售领导
Adam在Fluigent一路走来进步良多，成就斐然，尤其是在市场营销领域。从现场应用专家转型为产品经理，Adam不断磨练自己的营销技能，成功管理产品战略和发布，随后晋升为现任销售经理。他在市场营销方面的丰富经验使得他对市场理解深刻，并且能够娴熟应对竞争激烈的环境。
微流控研究市场的专业知识
Adam对微流控研究市场的深刻了解有助于开发满足客户需求的创新解决方案。随着新途径的不断探索以及我们在亚洲市场范围的不断扩大，他的技术专长和现场经验则极为宝贵。
Adam的感受
“作为Fluigent的区域销售经理，我主要负责在亚太地区推广Fluigent产品在研究市场的使用。我与中国、日本、韩国、印度、以色列、澳大利亚和新西兰等9家分销商密切合作。我非常享受与来自不同文化背景的个人合作，因为这让我能够深入了解各个市场的独特需求。在Fluigent，我们不仅仅是在销售产品，我们还帮助这些地区的研究人员取得更好的日常科学发现，并推动科研项目取得成功。”
展望未来
在Adam富有远见的领导下，我们期待Fluigent不仅在亚太地区达到新的高度，而且在推动科学界发展方面发挥重要作用。他的市场扩展战略方法重点在于为研究人员提供支持，并促进科学发现。通过加强与科学界的紧密联系，Adam致力于将挑战转化为创新和成功的机遇。
让我们一起庆祝Adam晋升新职位，并祝愿他在努力推动Fluigent和微流控研究领域向前发展的过程中一切顺利。
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Analytica 2024 Rückblick: Mikrofluidik in München!](https://www.fluigent.com/de/company/news/analytica-2024/)
**Published:** June 20, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Veranstaltungsort:** Halle A3 Stand 313B
Das Fluigent-Team zusammen mit unserer CEO France Hamber, Alain Crampon, Rainer Knoch, Linn Mari Aune, Jiakun YANG und dem Team von Microfluidic ChipShop Paul Gaube und Elfi Töpfer waren vor Ort und beantworteten Fragen rund um die Mikrofluidik.
**Höhepunkte vor Ort:**
- Umfassende Setups mit unseren Druckpumpen und anderen Produkten unserer Partner wie Ventile, Mikroskope und mehr
- Französischer Wein und Käse wurden am Donnerstag serviert
Nächster Halt: Medica 2024 in Düsseldorf vom 11. bis 14. November 2024, mit Microfluidic Chipshop Seien Sie dabei: Analytica verpasst?
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Fluigent: Ambassador for 'Made in Val-de-Marne'](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-ambassador-for-made-in-val-de-marne/)
**Published:** December 1, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
We are delighted to announce that **Fluigent** has officially signed up to the **“Entreprises”** **Charter** in collaboration with the **Val-de-Marne** Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Ambassadeurs du **Fabriqué en Val-de-Marne**. This initiative, supported by prestigious partners such as *Paris Est Marne&Bois*, *Grand Paris Sud Est Avenir*, *GrandOrly Seine Bièvre*, *MEDEF de l’Est Parisien*, *CPME 94*, *Groupe ADP*, *BRED – Banque Populaire*, *Banque Populaire Rives de Paris*, *the DRIEETS* *Val-de-Marne*, aims to celebrate and promote the productive fabric and know-how of companies in Val-de-Marne.
Fluigent joins a dynamic community of entrepreneurs and opinion leaders who share common values such as **product quality**, **openness to innovation**, **recognised skills**, **local involvement**, **social responsibility** and **quality of life** at work. By becoming a **Fabriqué en Val-de-Marne Ambassador**, we are making an active contribution to three key priorities: raising the profile of our manufacturing base, promoting our commitment as an Ambassador, and attracting talent to the Val-de-Marne.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/11/signature.pdf)
Fluigent joins a dynamic community of entrepreneurs and opinion leaders who share common values such as **product quality**, **openness to innovation**, **recognised skills**, **local involvement**, **social responsibility** and **quality of life** at work. By becoming a **Fabriqué en Val-de-Marne Ambassador**, we are making an active contribution to three key priorities: raising the profile of our manufacturing base, promoting our commitment as an Ambassador, and attracting talent to the Val-de-Marne.
As an Ambassador, Fluigent undertakes to play an active part in the Fabriqué en Val-de-Marne dynamic, to promote the region’s image, to mention the initiative to our network, and to share our experience within this new local network. We will play an essential role in communication on social networks and will proudly display the Fabriqué en Val-de-Marne logo in our communications.
In return, the Val-de-Marne Chamber of Commerce and Industry will promote our participation by displaying our **logo** on the network’s **communication media**, providing a presence on social networks and featuring us in their newsletter. We’ll benefit from communication tools, **promotion of Fluigent** to local players and partners, and easier contact with other players to develop synergies.
## Upcoming events
In 2024, the Val-de-Marne Chamber of Commerce and Industry will be organising a series of **promotional events**, providing Fluigent with an exceptional platform to showcase our company, our innovations and our contributions to the local community.
Together, as Ambassadors for Made in Val-de-Marne, we are determined to enhance the attractiveness of the region, promote **economic excellence**, and contribute to the productive and commercial development of companies that share our common values. Follow us on this exciting adventure on our social networks and keep up to date with the latest news from **Le Fabriqué en Val-de-Marne!**
[Read the paper](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/11/signature.pdf)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Welcome Alain Crampon!](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/welcome-alain-crampon/)
**Published:** October 13, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent is pleased to announce the appointment of Alain Crampon as Chief Sales Officer.**
## Last experience
Alain is an experienced leader with a proven track record in the OEM industry. Most recently he served as Global Director Strategic Accounts Analytical & Medical at Emerson Automation Solutions, he has built strong, passionate teams that consistently over-delivered on growth, customer satisfaction and business transformation.
He joins Fluigent at an exciting time and will enable the company to accelerate its growth and development across its OEM activities, Research customers and creation of new business opportunities.
## A word from our CEO France Hamber
” I am delighted to welcome Alain as our CSO. He will strengthen our teams with a very customer-oriented personality and extensive experience in the OEM industry. Alain will work with all of our teams to continue and accelerate our growth and establish Fluigent as THE supplier for fluid handling at microscale for all startups and next gen applications for industrials in the fields of Life sciences and diagnostics.”
## Thoughts of Alain Crampon
“This is a great time to be joining Fluigent. I have known Fluigent for years and have always been impressed by the level of technological prowess of their technology and portfolio of microscale pressure-based flow control solutions. The market is rapidly expanding, and customers’ expectations are increasing while questioning how to take advantage of Microfluidic. This presents huge potential and opportunities for innovative companies like Fluigent. The company occupies a unique position serving both Researchers and Industrial clients, supporting established Diagnostic and Life Sciences Tool manufacturers. I see great opportunities to grow in key sectors worldwide and I’m really happy to be joining the Fluigent’s team.”
## Contact him
**Chief Sales Officer**
Tel: +33 6 08 64 12 42
Mail:
[Linkedin](https://www.linkedin.com/in/alain-crampon-aa75146/ "Linkedin")
Fluigent SAS
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Development of an in-vitro eye model with the Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/in-vitro-eye-model/)
**Published:** March 31, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Development on an in-vitro model to estimate mass transfer from the anterior cavity
📢 A new research paper by Tianyang Liu and colleagues from the 𝗢𝗽𝘁𝗰𝗲𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘀 𝗟𝘁𝗱, UCL School of Pharmacy and the National Institute for Health Research, London, UK, describes a 𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗶𝗻-𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗿𝗼 𝗲𝘆𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗹 to estimate mass transfer through the iris/lens barrier in the case of drug intracameral injection.
👉
The article relies on the 𝗶𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗶𝗻-𝘃𝗶𝘃𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 by reproducing several eye movements and perfusing the system at physiological flow-rates using 𝗙𝗹𝘂𝗶𝗴𝗲𝗻𝘁’𝘀 𝗙𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗘𝗭, 𝗙𝗟𝗣𝗚 𝗣𝗹𝘂𝘀, 𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗞, 𝗔𝗗𝗔𝗣𝗧, 𝗙𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘁 𝗦 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘀𝗼𝗳𝘁𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗲.
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [Microfluidics & Organ-On-Chips Panel Discussion 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/microfluidics-organ-on-chips-panel-discussion/)
**Published:** October 18, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fluigent’s panel discussion was a successful event which took place at Chimie ParisTech – PSL. It gave all the participants an insight about the current and future development of microfluidics and the organ-on-chips field.
You will be able to find the summary of the topics below.
**The Microfluidic Revolution Panel :** Learn how microfluidics is accelerating the pace of research and industrial workflows.
**Organ-On-Chip & Industrial Adoption Panel :** Where we discussed the industrial adoption of organ-on-a-chip and debate on where biology and technology must meet for more advances in in vitro organ on chip models.
The replay of this panel discussion will be soon available. Stay tuned.
[Watch the recording ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-panel-discussion-interviews-2022/)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Fluigent's new organ-on-chip platform, Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-omi/)
**Published:** March 17, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
We have officially launched our [𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻-𝗼𝗻-𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗼𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗢𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻-𝗼𝗻-𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺"), 𝗢𝗺𝗶!🎉
This is the first-of-a-kind device for 𝗹𝗼𝗻𝗴-𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗺 𝗶𝗻-𝘃𝗶𝘁𝗿𝗼 𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹 𝗰𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 under biologically relevant shear stresses.
✅Automated flow injection & control: leave your flow running for a few days to a few weeks.
✅Compact & portable: suitable for incubator, hood and under the microscope for real-time monitoring.
✅No chip limitation: Use your own microchip thanks to the chip adaptor.
✅Smart technology: Controlled remotely via WIFI & data storage in the cloud.
Organ-on-chip applications are limitless, and we just made it a bit easier for you!
So let’s get creative together! 🚀
[Discover Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
**Categories:** Company news, Organ-On-Chip, Product news
---
### [Journées du Patrimoine, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/journees-du-patrimoine-2022/)
**Published:** May 21, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
On the occasion of Journées du Patrimoine, we have been elated to have our flagship product, Flow EZ, in the Office of Roland Lescure, Minister in Charge of Industry.
One year after being selected as a representative of the Made in France and being exhibited in the Elysée palace, It was an honour for us to represent the French industry in the French ministry of Economy & Finance.
Our Digital Acquisition and Communication Manager, Doaa Fahmy paid a little visit to capture this amazing sight!
[Click here to know more](https://www.economie.gouv.fr/patrimoine/jep-2022#)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Thought Leader: France Hamber](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/thought-leader-france-hamber/)
**Published:** April 19, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
France Hamber has given an interview to News Medical – Life Sciences, an online press with the latest medical news and research from around the world. Our CEO have the opportunity to speak about our microfluidics solutions and how we are allowing scientists to focus more on the science than the setup.
If you want to know more about Fluigent, our missions and what we think about the future of microfluidics, let’s have a look to the article below.
[Read the article here](https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220411/What-does-the-Future-of-Microfluidics-within-Research-Look-Like.aspx)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [FLUIGENT Germany celebrates 8 years!](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-germany-celebrates-8-years/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
Joy grows when shared. Let us celebrate this anniversary of Fluigent Germany together!
### Benefit from our Special Offer:
**This May**, place your order with us for **€8 000** or more and you can **choose one of the following Bonuses to get for free:**
1\. Laptop Lenovo ThinkPad 15” with Intel Core i5.
2\. TV Samsung 55” 4K.
3\. Coffee Maker DeLonghi: 12 coffee drinks recipes.
See the eligible countries to place order from highlighted on the map below.
Don’t miss the chance to expand your microfluidic set up with this once-in-a-year opportunity!
[Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
### Detailed conditions of the Offer:
You get one Bonus item per order.
Order amount must be equal or higher 8 000 Euro.
You can choose among 3 available types of Bonus items.
The exact item’s models may vary according to the availability.
If conditions are met choosing of the Bonuses follows in communication with our Sales Representatives.
Bonus items are shipped within 2 months from the date of purchase.
The offer is valid throughout May 2022.
**Countries eligible for this Special Offer:**
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Fluigent product ARIA highlighted in last issue of Nature Methods](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-product-aria-highlighted-in-last-issue-of-nature-methods/)
**Published:** March 18, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
This month, Nature Methods published a special issue on multiplexed tissue imaging. It contains articles that provides tools and guidance for imaging protocols, and highlights recent results.
The cover features modeled to resemble the rose window at the Cathedral at Chartres. Images were acquired through IBEX (iterative bleaching extends multiplexity) imaging, a method recently published by Radtke AJ et al. in Nature Protocols. The authors have interfaced our automated fluid delivery system ARIA with a fluorescent microscope to develop a fully automated multiplexed tissue imaging procedure.
To learn more about this powerful imaging approach, check the Editorial and paper below.
[Catching up with multiplexed tissue imaging – Nature Methods](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41592-022-01428-z)
[Section of Nature Methods March issue](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41592-021-01316-y)
To gain insight into the automation capacity of ARIA and its compatibility with IBEX and multiplexed imaging, see below :
[Recent Paper in Nature Protocols](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00644-9#Sec29)
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [New Application Notes : A human gut-on-chip model](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-application-notes-a-human-gut-on-chip-model/)
**Published:** March 4, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
You are interested in intestine physiology and/or physiopathology. You wish to assess the role of flow rate and shear stress on intestinal functions or to perform long-term perfusion experiments. Discover how to develop a human gut-on-chip model by combining **BEOnChip** microfluidic chip and our **Fluigent** pressure controllers.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
**Categories:** Organ-On-Chip
**Tags:** Organ-on-chip
---
### [Our CEO, one of the 20 Sup'Excellence laureates](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/our-ceo-one-of-the-20-supexcellence-laureates/)
**Published:** March 9, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fluigent is cheerful that its CEO, France Hamber, is one of the 20 laureates of the new edition of *Sup’Excellence : le business program des entrepren’Her*.
We would like to thank the Chanbre de Commerce et d’Industrie du Val-de-Marne for its involvement for many years in women’s entrepreneurship through numerous support programs.
And also congratulations to all the Sup’Excellence laureates!
[Read more about it](https://www.entreprises.cci-paris-idf.fr/web/cci94/sup-excellence)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Fluigent introduces you the F-OEM Series](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-introduces-you-the-f-oem-series/)
**Published:** March 4, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fluigent introduces you the 𝗙-𝗢𝗘𝗠 𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀 – 𝗮 𝗺𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗯𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗹 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗮𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀
The F-OEM offers our 𝗵𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗲𝗳𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝗱𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗽𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗴𝗲𝘀 to support the most demanding industrial applications, including microfluidic and nanofluidic applications. It is an all-in-one, modular platform that makes use of Fluigent latest pressure/flow control technology.
[Find more information](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [Fluigent product ARIA highlighted in last issue of Nature Protocols](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/aria-on-the-cover-of-nature-protocols/)
**Published:** February 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
The February issue of Nature Protocols features a paper on the cover using the Fluigent Aria system for automating tissue imaging through Iterative Bleaching Extends Multiplexity (IBEX). This utilizes the **sequential** fluid delivery capabilities of the Aria **for automated multiplexed imaging.**
[See the paper](https://protocolsmethods.springernature.com/posts/ascending-high-plex-mountains-with-ibex-an-open-and-versatile-method-for-multiplexed-antibody-based-imaging?channel_id=behind-the-paper)
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [Fluigent, a leader in the growing microfluidics market, is looking for passionate new collaborators](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-a-leader-in-the-growing-microfluidics-market-is-looking-for-passionate-new-collaborators/)
**Published:** February 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
Our CEO [France Hamber](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAABaJnKABtQImQ--yPH6BNl5PR8Agc7hu6zY) intervened yesterday in the [BFM Business](https://www.linkedin.com/company/bfm-business/) program to present the positions to be filled at Fluigent France and in our subsidiaries!
She also highlights Fluigent’s mission and objectives in the rapidly expanding field of microfluidics.
Are you looking for an opportunity? Discover our [job offers](https://www.fluigent.com/company/careers/).
Joining FLUIGENT is:
🚀 Embarking on a fast-growing field linked to current societal issues
💡 Improving everyday reality, make the world a safer place, save lives by accelerating scientific progress and discovery
🌱 Being an actor in the conquest of new markets and the rapid growth of the company
🌟 Having core values such as teamwork, innovation and customer satisfaction
💚 Having the Opportunity to work and grow with passionate and brilliant multicultural colleagues
💻 Evolved in a friendly and caring work environment
☕ Always being greeted with tea, coffee and cakes
If you are interested and/or have questions, it is here📲
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [2022 Research and Industrial product catalog](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/2022-research-and-industrial-product-catalog/)
**Published:** January 12, 2022
**Author:**
**Excerpt:** We are pleased to announce that our 2022 product catalog is available !!
**Content:**
We are pleased to announce that our 2022 product catalog is available !! 🥳
Click here to see the latest news on our product ranges
[Latest news on our product ranges](https://lnkd.in/gK-HSkit)
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [New Software | OxyGEN](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-software-oxygen/)
**Published:** October 19, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
The new way to get **full control** of your microfluidic setup. OxyGEN is a **single interface**, with **plug and play capabilities**, available for **all desktop OS**, that allows you to **control**, **monitor** and **automate** all Fluigent’s products. It gathers at the same place all the functions and capabilities of our traditional software: A-i-O, MAT, ESS control and much more. Through its brand new **intuitive dashboard**, OxyGEN is our new reference tool for **real-time control** and for developing **time based protocols** focusing on **pressures**, **flow rates**, **volumes** and **valve actuation** in microfluidic experiments. OxyGEN gives breath to your microfluidic set-up and allows you to keep full control of your experiment.
[Download OxyGen](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [New Pressure Based Flow Controller for Industry](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-pressure-based-flow-controller-for-industry/)
**Published:** December 18, 2018
**Author:**
**Content:**
FLUIGENT is well known for its high quality and innovative fluid delivery systems based on pressure actuation. Utilizing air pressure to drive liquid flow provides unmatched flow stability and fast response times to changes. Such systems also enable easy handling of disposable reservoirs of different sizes to adapt any requirement. Since our inception in 2006, Fluigent innovations have advanced pressure actuation technology to become the standard for microfluidic based devices. The company is now expanding its offerings to OEM market.
Fluigent has recently introduced the new PX pressure controller for integrated fluid handling in OEM systems This series of miniaturized system combines the excellent performance of the patented Fastab™ technology for optimal flow control with the robustness required in demanding industrial environments. The PX module is a CE and RoHS compliant single controller available in 3 pressure ranges: PX-1 from 0 to 1000 mbar, PX-2 from 0 to 2000 mbar and PX-V from-800 to 0 mbar (vacuum). It has been designed to maximize versatility for full system integration with its dual interface USB and RS232 ports and is delivered with a full software package (SDK) to ease integration into Windows based software platforms.
Our reputation for quality (Fluigent is certified ISO 9001 since 2010), customer satisfaction along with our flexibility make us the company of choice for microfluidic OEM instrumentation.
Visit[ fluigent.com/oem](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/) or[ fluigent.com/…/px-series](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/) for more information
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [Flow EZ™ : the future of microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/flow-ez-the-future-of-microfluidics/)
**Published:** April 27, 2017
**Author:**
**Content:**
Are you tired with bad performance with your syringe pumps?
Are you tired of waiting for your computer to launch to start your experiments?
Are you tired of using a microfluidic controller that uses too much space on your lab bench?
Forget long equilibration time, long procedures on your computer, optimizing your set-up to get enough space for your controller.
### Welcome to a new world in your daily routine.
## The Flow EZ™ revolution
[Let us introduce you the new Flow EZ™ by Fluigent.](https://youtu.be/DW43HxsoO8E)
A new technology and a new design united in one product, that allows you to control microfluidic flow in a blink of an eye. The most advanced flow controller, the most compact pressure pump, designed to hold in one’s hand.
Simply dial in the pressure you want, get started instantaneously and focus on what really matters: your experiments.
Expand it yourself if you need more pressure channels, simply add a module by plugging it, and focus on what really matters: your results.
Put it anywhere on your lab bench to suit your microfluidic set-up, don’t arrange your setup to hold next to your flow controller, and focus on what really matters: your research.
Put in in any position you need, sitting, lying, standing, the OLED screen will always be readable for you, and focus on what really matters: your science.
Share it with your colleagues, its light weight and compactness is a real asset to be easily used by anyone in your lab, and focus on what matters: your work.
[Discover more on the Flow EZ™ product page.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/flow-ez/)
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [Proudly made in France](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/proudly-made-in-france/)
**Published:** July 5, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
We are pleased to announce that our Flow EZ microfluidic flow controller has been selected to be part of the new faces of [\#MadeInFrance](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=madeinfrance&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6810571056709947393) 🇫🇷 during the Great Exhibition of Made in France, on July 3rd and 4th, at the [\#Élysée](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=%C3%A9lys%C3%A9e&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6810571056709947393) Palace!
For 15 years, Fluigent as a world leader, has used its leadership and expertise in [\#Microfluidics](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=microfluidics&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6810571056709947393) to introduce novel and effective ways of handling fluid flow. Our pressure pump controller, the Flow EZ™ is a recent illustration of our dedication to design and produce high performance devices making microfluidics more useful for thousands of researchers in more than 50 countries.
Microfluidics offers revolutionary new capabilities for scientific and industrial research and a wide range of applications (diagnostic, vaccine, point of care, food). For instance, it has the potential to revolutionize the search for new drugs by making it possible to test molecules 10,000 times faster while reducing costs by orders of magnitude. Experiments that today take months to complete could be done in a few minutes.
As pioneers in microfluidics, we have set the standard in microfluidic control, and we continue to innovate.
Our CEO France Hamber and our head of sales Nour Yakdi were pleased to meet you this weekend with our microfluidic pressure controller, LineUp Flow EZ.
Finally, last Friday, our CFO, Sabine Mercier, got the chance to pitch the french president, Emmanuel Macron, about what microfluidic can achieve.
In her own words: ” I managed to place Microfluidics, Lifescience, Fluigent, Saving lives at least 5 times each in a few sentences”.
[\#Fluigent](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=fluigent&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6817003646371291136) [\#madeinfrance](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=madeinfrance&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6817003646371291136) [\#Fabriquéenfrance](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=fabriqu%C3%A9enfrance&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6817003646371291136) [\#Elysee](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=elysee&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6817003646371291136) [\#microfluidics](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=microfluidics&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6817003646371291136) [\#innovation](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/hashtag/?keywords=innovation&highlightedUpdateUrns=urn%3Ali%3Aactivity%3A6817003646371291136)
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**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Introducing Fluigent New 2-Switch](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/introducing-fluigent-new-2-switch/)
**Published:** February 4, 2019
**Author:**
**Content:**
The new 2-Switch™ is a compact and easy to use 3-port/2-way microfluidic valve. Using standard connectors it can be integrated to any microfluidic setup. Its unique design allows to stack multiple 2-Switches™ together to save space on your benchtop.
**Main applications:**
The 2-Switch™ is ideal for applications where fluid sorting, switching or periodic sampling is required. It may be used as a manually-operated, stand-alone device or controlled by our software for long-term experiments.
[More Information](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components-3/2-switch/)
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [COVID-19 update](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/covid-19-update/)
**Published:** March 20, 2020
**Author:**
**Content:**
Dear Customers and Partners,
We are all well aware of the sacrifices to our daily activities necessary to mitigate the spread and consequences of the virus. Being part of the research community we feel it is our responsibility to continue to provide the best service possible and support everyone the best way possible during this period.
Our operational status is detailed as follows:
- In France: In accordance with the recommendations of local authorities, our French employees are mostly working from home answering email, returning phone calls, and focusing on supporting our customers. Though our deliveries may be impacted, we are doing our best to maintain close to normal business activities.
- In Germany and the United States: Our offices remain open and staffed to the extent recommended by local authorities consistent with mitigating the spread of the virus. Our customer support activities will be maintained at their usual high level.
As we continue to monitor the global Coronavirus pandemic, our top priority remains the health, safety and well-being of our employees, customers and partners while continuing to serve our customers.
If there are significant changes to these approaches, we will inform you as appropriate.
France Hamber, Fluigent CEO
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Ile-de-France exporter of the year](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/ile-de-france-exporter-of-the-year/)
**Published:** December 6, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fluigent is delighted to announce that it was selected as the Ile-de-France exporter of the year. 👏
Our CEO [France Hamber](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ACoAABaJnKABtQImQ--yPH6BNl5PR8Agc7hu6zY) yesterday received the prize given by Didier Kling, President of the CCIP IDF.
The award is the fruit of the collective effort of the Fluigent team and we are very proud. 👍🏻
[ Visit the article on LinkedIn ](https://www.linkedin.com/posts/lemoci-le-moniteur-du-commerce-international_f%C3%A9licitations-%C3%A0-fluigent-qui-a-remport%C3%A9-activity-6873908844536320000-B0bl/)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Microfluidic setup Flow Rate ad Pressure Calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/microfluidic-setup-flow-rate-ad-pressure-calculator/)
**Published:** October 2, 2019
**Author:**
**Content:**
Choosing the right microfluidic controller is the first step in developing any microfluidic experiment, but it is not always an easy task. In a microfluidic set-up there are two kinds of flow resistances: external flow resistances (tubing and fittings) and internal flow resistances (microchip design). Both will determine the necessary pressure to achieve the desired flow rate.
To help our clients choose the right instrument, Fluigent has designed a calculator to estimate the resistance of most microfluidic setups
[Go to calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-calculator/)
**Categories:** Fluigent expertise
---
### [Fluigent is growing!](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-is-growing/)
**Published:** March 8, 2018
**Author:**
**Content:**
Thanks to our customers and growing business, Fluigent has moved to a new location with more than twice as much space! Our new address is:
- ***O’kabé Bureaux***
- ***67, avenue de Fontainebleau***
- ***94270 Le Kremlin-Bicêtre***
- ***France***
Our better-thought production space will help us improve our workflow for your products and our customer support. The R&D is now bigger to be able to develop more and more new products. Natural light is everywhere, and we even have a real professional coffee machine!
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Fluigent provides automated fldic platfrom to BIOART-Lung 2020 project](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-provides-automated-fldic-platfrom-to-bioart-lung-2020-project/)
**Published:** July 13, 2018
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fluigent is proud to be a part of the BIOART-LUNG 2020 project. Under the scientific coordination of [Marie Lannelongue Hospital](http://www.hopitalmarielannelongue.fr/), this project is supported by a public grand overseen by the French National research Agency (ANR) as part of the second “Programme d’investissements d’Avenir” (reference : ANR-15-RHUS-0002)”. This interdisciplinary project gathers more than 10 different teams among public partners (AP-HP, CEA, CNRS, INSERM), academic partners (Paris Sud University, Polytechnique and Centrale Supelec high schools) and private companies including Air Liquide, Sensome and Xenios.
The BIOART-LUNG 2020 project aims to develop a long term, autonomous, portable, artificial lung for patients suffering from acute respiratory distress. This innovative therapeutic approach will provide 2 major advantages compared to existing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation:
- Portable device that will increase mobility of patients while waiting for lung transplantation surgery
- Physiologically relevant device which would reduce blood activation and extended blood oxygenation above the current three weeks limitation.
To validate intermediate steps, Fluigent has conceived, developed and made a customized fluidic platform connected to the device that integrates all the functions the final system will have. This fully automated platform allows for testing of the devices under realistic conditions. (see picture below).
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [[FRENCH] La start-up qui réinvente l'analyse médicale](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/french-la-start-up-qui-reinvente-lanalyse-medicale/)
**Published:** August 10, 2018
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fondée en 2006, désormais dirigée par France Hamber, Fluigent vient de lever des fonds auprès d’Inventures, un fonds d’investissement belge orienté vers le développement durable. «Nous cherchons à nous inscrire dans un des dix-sept objectifs de développement durable fixés par les nations unies», précise France Hamber. Il pourrait s’agir de la thématique «Santé et bien-être» ou «travail décent et croissance économique». Fluigent ne précise pas le montant de la levée de fonds mais espère ainsi étendre son empreinte géographique et s’adresser à de nouveaux marchés dont le domaine médical et le diagnostic.
[Accéder à l’article complet](https://www.lefigaro.fr/secteur/high-tech/start-up/2018/08/07/32004-20180807ARTFIG00286-fluigent-la-start-up-qui-reinvente-l-analyse-medicale.php)
**Categories:** Company news
---
### [Smart Microfluidic has arrived](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/smart-microfluidic-has-arrived/)
**Published:** June 22, 2018
**Author:**
**Content:**
New LineUp™ Series : Forget about how microfluidic experiments used to work!
Fluigent is proud to set the new standards in microfluidic combining ease of use and the best performance available.
Composed of a stand-alone flow control module (or up to 8), a Link to communicate with external devices and software, the LineUp™ Series is a complete solution to start your experiments in minutes. Spend more time on data and results and not on cumbersome setups.
Discover the LineUp™ Series »
**Categories:** Product news
---
### [Lunar New Year](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/lunar-new-year/)
**Published:** February 12, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
新年快乐 !
We wish to all our team members, customers and business partners a wonderful lunar year! At Fluigent, we celebrated the Year Of The Ox by eating traditional snacks, playing Mahjong and we also received Red Enveloppes 
Thanks to our Chinese colleagues for sharing their culture and helping to organise this event.
[2021 Lunar New Year](https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6765991431170478081/)
**Categories:** Company news
---
## Pages
### [Smart Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Our expertise
Fluigent’s broad range of solutions for use in microfluidic and nanofluidic applications offer greater control, automation, precision, and ease of use. If you are seeking to replace high-precision syringe pumps or other conventional instruments, we offer modern microfluidic systems and components that enhance productivity.
Our innovative pressure-based microfluidic controllers are compatible with lab on a chip device and a wide variety of microfluidic technologies that will allow you to focus on the science, not on the setup.
[Browse all](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/)
- [version="1.0"?
Videos Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/)
- [ Interviews & Testimonials Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/)
## Incoming Events
[
### 20 Years of Microfluidics. Your Work in the Spotlight
August 7, 2026
More Details](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/20-years-of-microfluidics/)
[
### Webinar-Spheroid Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads Using Microfluidics
March 31, 2026
More Details](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-spheroid/)
[
### Our Leading Microfluidics Events in 2026
February 3, 2026
More Details](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/microfluidics-events-in-2026/)
[
### Webinar – Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip: focusing on Vessel-on-Chip Models
February 19, 2026
More Details
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## OEM Expertise
[
### Combining Microfluidics and Spectroscopy
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/microfluidics-and-spectroscopy/)
[
### Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
## Why work with us?
The microfluidic laboratories and industry were struggling to perform their research and develop equipment to the level and precision required in terms of fluid control.
Fluigent was the first company to solve this problem by introducing an innovative technology: pressure pumps. Fluigent’s unique broad range of solutions for use in microfluidic and nanofluidics applications ensure full control of flow rates with a greater control, automation, precision, ease of use and also minimize contamination.
Fluigent has delivered thousands of patented pressure-flow controllers systems to hundreds of customers worldwide.
[About us](https://www.fluigent.com/company/about-us/)
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## Our Recent Reviews
[
### A Microfluidic approach for modeling the blood-brain tumor barrier
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/modeling-blood-brain-tumor-barrier/)
[
### Understanding Two-Phase Flow with Microfluidic Porous Media Models
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidic-porous-media-models/)
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### Breathing Lung-on-Chip Platform for Dynamic Anti-Fibrotic Testing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/breathing-lung-on-chip-platform/)
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### Microfluidics and Analytical Techniques: Benefits, Applications and Integration Strategies
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-analytical-techniques/)
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### Raydrop Cleaning Procedure
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### A Microfluidic Approach for High-Throughput Raman Spectroscopy of Whole Blood
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---
### [联系我们](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- 客户服务 / 销售支持
- 其他联系方式
## 客户服务
在Fluigent，我们很清楚不好用的系统意味着在实验室浪费时间。Fluigent的客户支持团队致力于提供及时、经济高效的维修。我们提供的支持服务涉及微流控建议及设备维修，从而可确保您尽快重新专注于实验工作。
如果您没有在常见问题[FAQ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/ "FAQ")）中找到答案，请联系我们的专门团队。我们保证在24小时内做出响应，必要时可通过远程会议或现场访问进行诊断
### 欧洲及世界其他地区
**Maya Ballet**
contact@fluigent.com
电话号码 : +33 6 37 67 56 79
电话:+33(0)1 7701 8268
### 北美
**James Lazich**
fluigentinc@fluigent.com
电话号码: +1 978-926-3307
电话: +1 978-268-0347
## 销售支持
您对我们的技术感兴趣吗? 你需要关于设置的建议吗？你是否想要使用微流控技术？
请给我们留言！期待收到您的留言。
### 欧洲及世界其他地区
**Alain Crampon**
contact@fluigent.com
电话号码: +33(0)6 08641242
电话: +33(0)1 82 39 43 81
### 北美
**Fernando Ferreira**
fluigentinc@fluigent.com
电话号码: +1 781-796-7920
电话: +1 978-306-6988
## 其他联系方式
### 客户服务
FLUIGENT
contact@fluigent.com
电话: +33(0)1 7701 8268
### 普通电话
电话: +33(0)1 82 39 43 81
---
---
### [用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 压力式微流控流量控制器
**Fluigent是率先在微流控技术中引入压力式微流控流量控制器来处理流体的公司**。压力驱动式流量控制系统的流体驱动方法包括对装有样本的储液瓶进行加压，并将其快速注入微流控设备中。
我们的控制器基于获得专利的FASTABTM技术**，可确保流量稳定、无脉冲，从而提高实验的准确性和可再现性。**使用压力驱动可以缩短响应时间并降低成本。
**主要有两个产品系列：LineUpTM系列和MFCS系列，前者用于不断发展、紧凑且适配性强的操作，后者用于实现经过现场验证的定制化体验**。
### MFCS
MFCS™（即微流控流量控制系统）是一种压力式微流控流量控制器。具有4或8个通道，有不同的压力范围，适用于微流控实验。MFCS™可产生恒定的压力驱动流速，支持进行可靠且可重复的实验。
**MFCS的特点**
- **独立通道：**每个通道都可以独立控制，并提供特定量的压力或真空来处理流体。可用压力范围为-800 mbar（用于抽真空）到7 bar（用于加压）。
- **快速获得出色结果**：快速达到压力目标并立即开始实验。利用经过现场验证的技术，您可以快速获得可靠、出色的实验结果。
- **结果可靠且可再现**：MFCS™可避免交叉污染，因为仪器和试剂之间没有直接接触。我们的压力驱动技术可实现无脉冲的精确控制，这对于在许多应用中获得可重复的结果至关重要。
- **完全可定制：**MFCS™的设计取决于您的需求。您可以选择设备中的通道数量（4或8），每个通道的压力范围为-800 mbar到7 bar，您甚至可以选择在仪器内部集成压力源或真空源。
---
### LineUP
我们的LineUp™产品系列是下一代微流控系统：
- **借助Flow EZ™或Push-Pull模块，用户可以精确调节和控制压力和真空，LINK和LINK COM模块用于与计算机**或任何使用TTL端口、USB电缆或串行端口通信的外部仪器通信。
- **Adapt用于连接具有不同压力范围的Flow EZ™模块**，无需附加压力源。**P-SWITCH支持成倍增加系统的出口，而SWITCH EZ可控制微流控阀**。整个系统可以在没有电脑的情况下通过本地控制进行控制，也可以通过Fluigent软件进行监控，以扩展其功能并充分利用自动化。
选择您需要的模块并将其组合在一起。
[Flow EZ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-flow-ez-cn.pdf)
**使用Flow EZ和MFCS的应用示例：**
来自北京中国人民解放军军事科学院生物信息中心的**Hongjuan Wei等人成功开发出通用集成平台**和相应的控制系统，**可用于简化和按需制备mRNA产品。**基于交错人字形微混合芯片的mRNA封装模块**已集成到此平台中**，该模块使用了我们的压力驱动式**控制器（Flow EZ）和流量传感器（FlowUnit）**。**\[1\]**
mRNA封装模块
## 微流控传感器
**借助Fluigent微流控传感器组，用户可以直接控制和监控流速，或在设置中扩展压力/真空测量**，从而提供适用于任何流体应用的流速测量和/或控制解决方案**。我们的微流控传感器提供可调节的液体流量、最少的试剂和样本用量、快速分析能力、系统紧凑性与并行化能力，以及较少的废液产生量。**
### 流量传感器
**FLOW UNIT和FLOW UNIT+是双向微流控流量传感器**，可独立使用，兼容Line Up™控制器或其他微流控控制系统（如使用Flowboard集线器的MFCS™系列）。
FLOW UNIT和FLOWUNIT+微流控流量传感器具有多种低流速范围
[Flow Unit Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-flow-unit-cn.pdf)
**FLOW UNIT的特点：**
- **针对各种流体调节测量值：**与FLOW UNIT组合使用时，可在处理流速传感器校准之外的液体时为您的测量添加一个比例因子。对于有机溶液，异丙醇的第二次校准内置在S、M+和L+型号的FLOW UNIT上。
- **流速测量：**FLOW UNIT和FLOW UNIT+能够快速、准确地测量超低流体流速。
- **各种流速范围的精度：**FLOW UNIT型号众多，流速选择范围广泛，可在7 nL/min到5 mL/min的范围内最大限度地满足您的需求。
- **监控和控制实验**
---
### 压力传感器
**PRESSURE UNIT是一款独立的微流控在线压力传感器，用于连续测量流体路径中的压力**。借助我们的微流控在线压力检测器，您能够以稳定、无脉冲和响应迅速的方式准确监控和控制压力。可以使用三种不同的高精度压力传感器（S、M和XL），具体取决于您想要测量的压力范围。
**FLOW UNIT的特点：**
- **检测范围广：**PRESSURE UNIT是一款微流控在线压力传感器，可精确测量-1000 mbar到7 bar范围内的压力和真空。我们的压力检测器可读取多种流速读数。
- **实时显示：**可使用Fluigent OxyGEN软件以图形方式监控压力测量。我们的专用软件支持用户直接在电脑上控制数据采集。
- **不需要集线器：**直接将传感器插入电脑，即可享受这款外形小巧的压力检测解决方案带来的便利。该微流控内置式压力传感器可以插入微流控装置中的任何位置（内联安装）。
- **压力控制：**用户可以通过将任何微流控压力检测器与我们的压力控制器系统组合使用，从而实现精确的压力控制。
**FLOW UNIT应用示例**
来自功能光学成像实验室（德克萨斯大学奥斯汀分校）的**Colin Sullender等人成功地量化了注射泵和压力驱动式流量控制器产生流量的不确定性**。与注射泵相比，使用我们的MFCS-EZ控制器可以产生稳定且可重复的流量。根据所获得的结果，**从注射泵系统改用我们的压力驱动式控制器是消除流量相关误差并开发更加可靠的测量和成像流量技术的关键因素**。这种方法在准确评估和比较成像技术方面带来了新的机遇（本文通过比较激光LSCI和多重曝光斑点成像也证明了这一点）。\[2\]
*微流控流量评估设置示意图。*
*注射泵（蓝色）和压力驱动式（红色）流量系统的流量传感器测量结果与理想预定义流量（黑色）的比较*
## 微流控阀
微流控阀（又称为微型阀）**，是微流控设备中使用的基本组件，用于通过不同的阀口处理流体。**
**Fluigent微流控阀支持用户为任何实验设计复杂的流控路径。**这些阀可以轻松集成到设置中并受到实时控制，甚至不需要电脑。
**我们的微流控阀可最大限度地减少试剂消耗，降低实验成本并具有较小的内部体积**。微流控阀可以防止交叉污染和形成生物膜的风险，避免出现死体积。其经过优化的材料具有优异的机械运动稳定性和高化学兼容性。
**Fluigent阀的特点：**
- **紧凑型设备**
- **自动化能力**
- **强适配性和多功能性**
- **双向流动**
- **内部体积低**
- **快速驱动**
---
### L-SWITCH™注射阀（两位六通）
**L-SWITCH™是一款两位六通双向微流控注射阀，用于通过不同阀口处理流体**。该注射阀支持在流体管路中自动注射样本，因此非常适合精确剂量注射或不同流体之间的切换。
L-SWITCH™再循环阀（两位六通）
**L-SWITCH™再循环阀是一款两位六通双向微流控再循环阀，用于通过不同阀口处理流体**。该再循环阀非常适合细胞培养应用中的流体再循环，支持执行长期单向再循环流动。
---
### M-SWITCH™十位十一通双向阀
**M-SWITCH™是一款十位十一通微流控双向阀，用于注射或选择最多10种不同的流体或芯片**。阀中的流量是双向流动。该设备可用作分配器或选择器，用于复用或解复用用途。
---
### 2-SWITCH™采样阀（两位三通）
**2-SWITCH™是一款紧凑型两位三通微流控采样阀，使用标准配件，可以集成到任何微流控装置中**。该采样阀采用独特的紧凑型设计，支持用户组合多个2-SWITCH™设备以节省操作台上的空间。
---
**L-Switch应用示例**
选择正确的仪器以重现**体内细胞实验的流动条件非常重要**，因为这会影响细胞的存活、扩散、表型，并扩展其基因表达。
**这项技术的一个关键要素是所使用的灌注系统类型**。从这个角度出发，我们构建了一个再循环系统，该系统配备了用于控制器官芯片应用的压力式流量控制器，并与传统的注射泵进行了比较。两个Flow EZ设备连接到两个储液瓶。管路流经L-SWITCH（支持培养基再循环）、FLOW UNIT和微流控设备。
**使用Flow EZ和L-switch，可以观察到稳定的流速，流量变化率小于2%（相比之下，注射泵的流量变化为40%）**。这种系统可以促进内皮细胞的存活和生理表型的维持。
*流速为时间的函数，使用了蠕动泵和压力式微流控控制系统*
## References
1. Wei, H.; Rong, Z.; Liu, L.; Sang, Y.; Yang, J.; Wang, S. Streamlined and On-Demand Preparation of mRNA Products on a Universal Integrated Platform. Microsyst Nanoeng 2023, 9 (1), 97. .
2. Sullender, C. T.; Santorelli, A.; Richards, L. M.; Mannava, P. K.; Smith, C.; Dunn, A. K. Using Pressure-Driven Flow Systems to Evaluate Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging. J. Biomed. Opt. 2023, 28 (03). .
---
### [面向高流量控制的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 微流控的工作原理是什么？
微流控需要**非常精确的流体控制，同时使用较小的体积和空间**。微流控芯片是微流控研究中所使用的设备，其中的微通道已经过模制或图案化设计。**微通道相互连通，支持流体流经不同的通道**，从一个位置流动到另一个位置。该网络通过进口和出口连接到外部环境。**使用被动方式或外部主动系统**（压力控制器、注射泵或蠕动泵)**、管理或从微流控芯片中去除流体或气体。**
通道可能具有不同的内径（通常范围为5到500 μm），并且其网络必须针对要进行的应用和分析进行专门设计。因此，**微流控芯片支持在单个微型设备中集成多种功能**，这些功能通常需要整个实验室才能实现。
微流控芯片示例
## 流体在微米尺度下会发生哪些变化？
在微米尺度下，流体的行为会发生变化并呈现多个优点：**快速导热、增加表面体积比、层流和可能的扩散混合**。此外，微流控可显著**减少样本和试剂消耗**、**缩短实验时间**并**降低应用的总体成本**。
得益于微电子学的发展和晶体管的微型化，这一概念被引入生物医学和化学领域，并推出了“芯片实验室”（LoC）原理和“微型全分析系统”（μTAS）。1979年，S.Terry等人开发出一种硅基芯片，实现了气相色谱仪功能的微型化，这是微流控芯片的早期示例。 自这一开创性产品问世以来，**微流控技术经历了爆炸式的增长，成为学术研究人员和工业集团不可或缺的工具。**
*微流控技术的发展*
## 微流控技术有哪些优点？
*微流控技术的优点* \[1\]
微流控技术的关键概念是**将通常需要整个实验室才能完成的操作整合到一个简单的微型系统中**。目前，得益于设备的紧凑尺寸，**微流控系统以复用技术取代了传统的放大技术**，这显著缩短了从配方到生产所需的时间。因此，**微流控技术不仅可用于分析目的，还可用于过程工业的大规模生产**，特别是精细化工、食品、环境和制药业。近年来，微流控设备也作为分析工具广泛应用于生物化学和分子生物学应用领域。
**微流控系统还提供卓越的数据质量和改进的参数控制**，在保持性能的同时，实现过程自动化。该系统只需少量样本操作，即可对样本进行处理和分析。**微流控芯片与流体处理系统的结合**经过精心设计，并加入自动化技术，**即使用户专业知识水平不高也能生成多步反应，**，且具备多种功能。
例如，与传统方法相比，**微流控技术提高了水分析的灵敏度**，能够检测出较低浓度的污染物。分析时间大幅缩短，可以进行实时监测并提高效率，同时使用少量样本以防止水浪费。
此外，由于微流控技术能够满足高质量且受到严格监管的医疗产品的需求，因此预计该技术**将在未来的纳米医药生产、治疗产品给药及诊断中发挥重要作用**。
## 如何发挥微流控技术的这些优势。
在微流控技术中，若想成功执行微流控实验，**掌握各种微米尺度的流量控制技术变得愈加重要**。要生成可靠且可再现的数据，**需要精确控制流量参数**：例如，系统中应用的流速将定义产生的液滴尺寸，或对细胞产生特定的剪切应力，从而影响其生长、空间组织和蛋白分泌。应用于系统的流速误差会导致出现多分散液滴、系统不稳定、细胞受损，甚至造成实验失败。**因此，全面可靠的流量控制对于任何微流控系统都至关重要。**
## 微流控中用于输送流体的最常用系统是什么？
### 注射泵
**注射泵适合小剂量注射，但其精度不如压力泵**，特别是在非常低的流速下，精度更低。市面上的产品质量各异，价格不一。
在微流控流量控制装置中，注射泵基于由步进电机驱动的机械系统，该系统以精确的速率推动注射器，具有较宽的流速范围。但是，**机械驱动会产生流量脉动，并且响应时间和沉淀时间较长**，特别是在存在气泡、黏性流体和柔性管路的情况下。此外，系统内的实际流速不受监控，如果由于泄漏、堵塞或不正确的设置而未达到流速命令，则可能产生结果偏差。**压力也不受控制**，如果微系统堵塞，压力就会上升到会造成损坏的水平。文本建议用户定期检查堵塞情况，特别是在使用微粒时，并在自动化实验时了解该技术的潜在限制。
注射泵响应时间图
### 蠕动泵
蠕动泵送过程基于软管的压缩和放松。旋转滚轮沿着安装在泵内的管路滚动并压缩管路，在其中形成真空并吸取流体。 这种流体驱动方法可用于微流控实验室且相当经济实惠。
**在微流控流量控制装置中，蠕动泵选件非常适合大流量和高流速**，也适用于流体再循环**。但是，压缩管道会引起流动脉冲，这不适合大多数微流控应用**，这类应用的流量精度至关重要。 此外，应定期更换软管，防止软管损坏。
### 压力控制器解决方案
压力驱动式流量控制器的流体驱动方法包括对装有样本的储液瓶进行加压，然后将其快速注入微流控设备中。这种储液瓶的尺寸多种多样，选择范围涵盖1.5/2ml的Eppendorf管到15/50ml的Falcon小瓶，甚至有几百毫升的大瓶。
为了实现微流控流量控制，受控气体压力会推动流体，然后流体经储液瓶出口流出**。由于气压控制器具有出色的调节功能，这些系统可以实现从亚纳升/分钟到几十毫升/分钟的高度稳定的流速。**
[了解我们的微流控产品和解决方案 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
*Fluigent的MFCS和FLOW EZ压力控制器*
**Fluigent具有MFCS-EZ™和LineUp™压力驱动式控制器，其分辨率低至7×10-3 bar。**例如，**我们所有系列产品的稳定时间最低为100ms，分辨率为满量程（压力传感器分辨率）的0.03%，测量值的稳定性变异系数为0.1%**。
如果流量传感器已与压力控制器连接，则用户可以直接控制流速。**将通过强大的算法（例如Fluigent OxyGEN）对压力进行调节**。此外，通过与压力控制器连接的阀可以实现流体再循环。
**压力泵的另一个优点是用户只用一个压力通道即可对多个储液瓶加压。**如果您想按顺序注射不同的溶液，这可以显著降低设置成本。凭借这些优点，**我们的压力式流量控制器适用于对参数（尺寸、混合、流速等）的控制和精度要求较高的应用**。并在与液滴生成、ddPCR、细胞培养和细胞灌注、器官芯片研究以及纳米粒、微胶囊和微珠合成相关的实验中提供了出色的结果。
[了解我们的微流控产品和解决方案 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
## Reference
1- Bahnemann, J.; Grünberge, A. Microfluidics in Biotechnology: Overview and Status Quo. Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology book series, 2022, ABE,volume 179.
---
### [先进的组学技术解决方案 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics-technology/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 自动顺序注射系统：Aria
Fluigent推出了Aria，这是我们专为实现精确细胞灌注或定时注射方案设计的自动顺序注射系统。借助Aria，用户可以按照个性化方案，将最多10种不同的溶液自动输送到腔室或微流控芯片中。
在对培养细胞进行长期成像时，保持受控的环境条件至关重要。Aria有助于实现培养基的连续流体流动注射，确保细胞获得最佳生理条件。持续供应的营养物质和受控的pH值可打造理想的环境，同时防止细胞碎片积聚。
我们的多功能流体注射系统可最大限度地减少细胞上的剪切应力，支持在多种流体之间进行无缝切换，并确保培养基在压力变化时仍能持续流动。附加组件（包括流量传感器）可保证精确控制流速并顺畅执行培养基切换。
[Aria Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-aria-cn.pdf)
### Aria的特点
- **输送最多10种溶液：**Aria功能多样，支持在较长周期内输送40 µL到数百mL不等的剂量。Aria的软件可为用户提供重要信息，包括每种溶液的精确输送时间。此外，它还会通知用户每个储液瓶无缝执行方案所需的最小剂量。
- 方案自动化：借助Aria的用户友好型软件，用户只需点击几下即可轻松设计方案。操作人员可以为注射方案的每个步骤定义培养时间、流速和滴定剂量等参数。可对方案进行记录，以方便用户之间共享。
- **减少差异性：**使用移液管时，通常会观察到5.1%的操作人员内在差异性和8.1%的操作人员之间差异性，与这两个数字相比，Aria可大幅减少实验之间的差异性（达到0.5%左右），这是一项重大改进。
- **保持样本的完整性：**样本无污染风险，在整个方案中均采用无接触处理方式，从而减少了手动处理造成污染的可能性。
- 成像研究的理想选择：Aria可通过TTL信号与不同的显微镜同步。凭借此功能，该设备能够发送和接收TTL信号，从而启动成像周期或在成像周期完成后恢复Aria注射方案。
### Aria双开关与M开关
用户可以将Aria与各种开关阀组合使用，无论想要灌注一个通道还是多个通道，都能够实现。通过使用2个开关，可以灌注一个通道，通过使用M开关，可以灌注最多9个通道。流体流速范围为3.2 µL/min到1 mL/min，具体取决于所使用的流量单位。
Aria集手动移液优势和一体化系统功能于一体，专用于一种特定应用，还集成了显微镜、特定芯片类型和一套特定的解决方案。任何需要多种溶液输送的方案都可以实现自动化，与手动程序相比，这既节省了科学家的时间，又减少了实验之间的差异性。
### 使用Aria的应用示例
在该研究中，Radtke等人(1)展示了我们的自动顺序灌注系统ARIA的自动化功能。他们展示了该系统与宽场显微镜的顺畅同步，以实现自动化和多重抗体标记。ARIA通过发送和接收TTL信号展现了多功能性，启动图像采集周期，并在完成后恢复灌注方案。
这种强大的技术利用迭代染色和漂白方法来实现高分辨率成像，支持评估超过65个参数。这一方法被称为迭代漂白扩展多重性（IBEX）方案，提供了一种可靠且一致的方法，用于在复杂的组织（如健康器官、感染器官或肿瘤微环境）内进行全面的细胞分析和空间检查。
图2和图3显示了使用自动化IBEX方法在人体组织内获得的一些图像示例。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/03/expertise-review-ibex-aria-jejunum-2-1.png)*图2：人类空肠图像（六个周期，显示了24个参数中的16个）。标尺：200 µm（左）、50 µm（青色框）、25 µm（红色框）(1)。*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/03/expertise-review-ibex-aria-skin-1.png)*图3：人体皮肤图像（五个周期，显示了19个参数中的15个）。标尺：200 µm（左）、25 µm（插图）。角蛋白10（K10）、角蛋白14（K14）(1)。*
此外，ARIA的自动化还可扩展到各种应用，如DNA-paint、OligoSTORM、剂量/反应研究、自动多重免疫荧光实验或动态脉冲追踪实验，为各种实验场景提供自动化解决方案。
[Aria Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-aria-cn.pdf)
## 细胞成像腔室：FCS2
FCS2是一种即用型多功能解决方案，专用于进行精确的微环境控制，具有与各种显微镜技术兼容的精确温度和流量调节功能。该系统集成了具有高N.A.兼容性、均匀温度控制的显微流动吸收池和可定制的样本区域，专为倒置显微镜而设计。
### FCS2腔室的特点
- 成像兼容性：该系统与所有显微镜模式兼容，从而确保其在应用方面的多功能性，特别适合用于高分辨率成像，可实现最佳性能。
- 全面流量控制：确保光学腔内部的体积得到精确管理。该系统提供层流或可定制的流动模式。用户可根据自己的需求全权决定流道的剖面和剪切应力。
- 温度控制：温度控制保持在0.2度的窄幅范围内。这是唯一一个能够覆盖整个试样平面的均匀温度控制腔室。该系统具有高效快速的温度稳定能力。此外，它还提供高于和低于环境条件的温度调节功能。
- **细胞成像：**该系统适用于贴壁细胞、组织或悬浮细胞，具有处理不同类型样本的多功能性。
### 使用Aria的应用示例
我们与Samy GOBAA（巴斯德研究所生物材料和微流控部门主任）和Heloïse Mary（BMcf研究工程师）合作，推出了一套新型自动免疫荧光（IF）方案，该方案集成了先进的自动顺序注射系统（ARIA）和Bioptechs FCS2成像腔室。
*图 4：使用Aria和FCS2腔室的自动免疫荧光实验方案设置。*
*图5：用Phalloidin-AF488对人脐静脉内皮细胞（HUVEC）进行染色以实现F-肌动蛋白可视化，用UEA1-lectin-DyLight作为内皮细胞膜标记，用DAPI进行细胞核染色。*
我们展示了采用ARIA和FCS2成像腔室进行自动免疫荧光程序的优势（图5）。我们的研究表明，这种方法大幅缩短了处理时间，仅需4小时30分钟即可完成该程序。与传统的手动移液方法（通常需要最长6小时）相比，这可节省大量时间。
自动化这一过程使研究人员能够同时处理多项任务，从而优化其时间和资源。此外，这种适应性强的方案适用于盖玻片上的细胞以及微流控芯片中的细胞或组织，成为推进细胞和分子生物学研究的宝贵工具。
## References
1. Radtke, A.J., Chu, C.J., Yaniv, Z. et al. IBEX: an iterative immunolabeling and chemical bleaching method for high-content imaging of diverse tissues. Nat Protoc 17, 378–401 (2022). [https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00644-9 ](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00644-9)
---
### [面向组学应用的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 什么是组学？
“组学”是指专注于对细胞、组织或生物体内的生物大分子进行全方位分析的学科。 这些学科需要大规模分析各种生物组分（通常在分子水平），以获得对生物系统的全面了解。这种全方位分析需要使用特定的工具，以便通过生物信息学方法进行生物实验和数据分析。
下面是一些主要的组学学科：
- **基因组学：**研究生物体的完整DNA组（基因组），以了解其结构、功能、变异以及基因之间的相互作用。
- **转录组学：**研究细胞内的RNA分子，包括其类型、丰度和基因表达模式的变化。
- **蛋白质组学：**研究细胞内的整个蛋白质组，分析其功能、结构、修饰、相互作用和丰度。
- **代谢组学：**分析参与细胞代谢的完整小分子或代谢物组，深入了解代谢途径和生理变化。
- **表观基因组学：**探索DNA序列之外的因素（如DNA甲基化和组蛋白修饰）引起的基因表达修饰和改变。
- **宏基因组学：**专注于研究直接从环境样本中回收的遗传物质，深入了解微生物群落及其遗传多样性。
组学分析方法将从根本上改变生命科学领域的研究。这些方法能够评估单个细胞的基因组、转录组或蛋白质组，而不是评估细胞群内的平均状态，这标志着癌症生物学、神经科学、神经干细胞治疗等各个领域的重大飞跃。
图1：“组学革命”–一种综合性的“组学”方法，结合了基因组学、转录组学、蛋白质组学、代谢组学和代谢流组学，可促进系统科学以及人类疾病的诊断和治疗的进步(1)。
## 组学学科领域使用的主要技术
这些组学学科推动了先进技术和高通量技术的发展，以生成大规模数据集。通过整合和分析这些数据集，研究人员可以了解复杂的生物过程和疾病机制，识别生物标志物，并为个性化医疗和靶向治疗创造条件。
组学技术得到了广泛使用，并且因所探索的特定组学领域而异。
- **PCR（聚合酶链反应）：**用于基因组学，可成倍增加特定的DNA序列，从而对其进行分析和识别。
- **下一代测序（NGS）：**用于基因组学和转录组学，可对DNA和RNA进行测序，从而能够对基因组、基因表达、突变和变异进行大规模分析。
- **质谱（MS）：**用于蛋白质组学和代谢组学，可识别和量化样本中的蛋白质或代谢物，从而深入了解其结构、修饰、相互作用和浓度。
- **成像技术：**应用于各个领域，用于可视化细胞或组织内的分子结构或分布，例如荧光显微镜、电子显微镜和成像质谱。
- **微阵列：**用于基因组学和转录组学，可同时分析数千个基因或RNA的表达水平，从而实现基因表达模式的高通量筛选和比较。
- **色谱分析：**用于代谢组学，可根据其化学性质分离和分析复杂的代谢物混合物，有助于其识别和定量分析。
- **生物信息学工具：**对于处理、分析和解释组学技术生成的大量数据至关重要，涉及计算分析、统计建模和数据整合。
*图2：微管相关蛋白2（绿色）和细胞核（蓝色）染色的神经元细胞免疫荧光。图像是在Nikon共焦显微镜上以10倍放大倍率拍摄的。*
这些技术不断发展并与先进技术融合，有助于全面了解生物系统并推动生命科学领域的创新。
## **精确的流体处理和Fluigent对组学领域的贡献**
组学领域的革命很大程度上归功于基于微流控的技术，这些技术通常需要将细胞分离成液滴、微通道或微孔，然后再进行首选的组学分析。
精确的流体处理是涉及DNA、RNA、蛋白质和代谢物的各种分析过程的基础。其对于样本制备等步骤至关重要，因为这些步骤需要准确移液、稀释和混合样本。如果将自动化和精确的流体处理相结合，则有利于实现基因组学、转录组学和蛋白质组学所使用的高通量筛选，从而能够有效地处理大量样本。
总体而言，确保样本制备、分离和分析的准确性和可重现性对于生成可靠的数据至关重要，这对在分子水平上理解生物系统做出了重大贡献。
在Fluigent，我们的核心使命是通过提供一系列致力于促进该领域进步的产品，推动科学前沿的发展，尤其是在充满活力的组学技术领域。
[点击此处了解我们的产品。 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics-technology/)
## References
1. Nielsen J, Oliver S. The next wave in metabolome analysis. Trends Biotechnol. 2005;23:544-6. Medline:16154652 doi:10.1016/j. tibtech.2005.08.005
---
### [适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Flow-EZ压力流量控制器
Flow EZ是精密流体处理领域的创新解决方案。这款压力驱动式流量控制器专为实现无缝集成和精确控制而设计，可为各种应用（尤其是细胞培养和器官芯片应用）的流体管理提供出色的多功能性和可靠性。凭借其用户友好型界面和紧凑型设计，Flow EZ可简化实验操作，使研究人员能够轻松地以卓越的精度控制流速和压力。该仪器是实现精确流体控制的重要工具，便于进行细胞生物学和药物研究等领域的各种实验。
### FlowEZ的特点
- **可扩展至最多12个模块：**随着您的工作流程扩展，Flow EZ™系统可提供优异的可扩展性，支持无缝集成最多12个模块。每个微流控流量调节器都可以用作独立的专用压力通道，确保在实验中实现最佳控制和灵活性。
- **压力和真空控制：**借助Flow EZ™系列模块，可轻松实现精确的压力和真空调节。可在-800 mbar到7 bar的压力范围内进行精确调节，确保您的实验在最佳条件下进行。
- **本地手动控制**：无需连接电脑即可进行操控！Flow EZ™硬件接口支持本地控制，您能够通过模块直接操控设置。
- **流体输送精度：**配备FLOW UNIT的系统能够实现对流速的高度控制和对体积的精确分配，并可根据实验需求提供动态范围。
- **高适配性储液瓶选件**：Flow EZ™支持各种容量（2 mL至1 L）的实验室用储液瓶。流量长时间保持稳定，无需频繁补充，从而确保实验能够连续进行数天。
### 用FlowEZ的应用示例
麻省理工学院的Roger D. Kamm和他的团队(1)开发了一种用于模拟人体血脑屏障（BBB）的先进微流控模型，并集成了Fluigent Flow-EZ压力控制器。该装置支持对血管渗透性进行定量分析。他们的微流控装置是一种创新型人体BBB模型，Nature Protocols对其进行了重点报道。该模型可以模拟血管形态、相应的细胞组织、运送能力以及相关的基因/蛋白质表达谱，这些要素对于综合研究至关重要。
Nat Protoc 17, 95–128 (2022). [https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w "https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w")
*图BBB MVN中的黏连蛋白血管内皮钙黏蛋白和紧密连接蛋白ZO 1的免疫荧光染色1*
## 自动化器官芯片平台-Omi
Omi是Fluigent的自动化器官芯片平台，该平台是器官芯片技术领域的最新成果。该平台可以帮助科学家和研究人员简化和改进研究过程。
Omi可提供对各种参数的自动控制，使研究人员能够准确模拟复杂的生理环境。凭借其用户友好型界面和精确的流体控制，该平台支持对细胞相互作用、疾病建模、药物测试等进行深入研究。
通过其模块化设计和高适配性，该平台支持轻松重建不同的器官芯片模型，具有灵活性和可扩展性。该平台旨在优化实验工作流程，确保高效生成可再现的结果。并支持长期进行流体再循环、注射和采样，从而简化了复杂器官芯片研究的方案创建。
[Omi Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-omi-cn.pdf)
### 自动化器官芯片平台Omi的特点
- **多功能性：**Omi提供可定制的方案，包括精确、轻松地进行灌注、再循环、注射和采样。Omi附带适配器，因此还适用于任何类型的微流控芯片。
- **紧凑便携：**Omi适合放入培养箱内和显微镜下。它可以在培养箱、保护罩和显微镜之间轻松转移，同时保持流程持续运行。
- **远程控制：**通过WIFI连接和iOS/Android Omi应用程序，可对方案进行设置和监控，具有出色的便利性和可控性。
- **自主性**：电池续航时间为2小时，便于从培养箱平稳转移到成像系统，以实现不间断的实验和分析。
- 数据存储在云中，更易于访问。
## 高通量细胞灌注套件
Fluigent提供的器官芯片灌注套件适用于高通量研究，是生物医学研究领域的重大进步。该套件旨在通过多重分析和开发高通量实验推动器官芯片研究的进一步发展！ 它可以同时对多个器官芯片模型进行灌注控制。
该套件具有用户友好型界面，可确保在多个实验中精确控制流速、压力和样本收集，从而最大限度地实现芯片灌注。
该套件配备Fluigent的MFCS-EX微流控流量控制器、双向流量单元传感器、BeOnChip微流控芯片以及与培养箱兼容的储液瓶支架系统。
### 通量细胞灌注套件的特点
- **稳定且复杂的流动模式**：借助细胞灌注套件，我们能够实现卓越的响应能力，有效地复制复杂的流动模式，例如主动脉压力波动。这种精确的控制可保证一致且可再现的实验环境，显著降低了实验差异性。
- **方案自动化和用户友好型界面：**优化参数后，自动化方案成为提高时间效率、减少污染并最大限度地减小差异性的关键步骤。Fluigent流量控制器可通过用户友好型软件（OxyGEN）实现方案的无缝组装和自动化，从而实现任何方案、阀门或压力设置的自动化。
- **多功能且可定制**： 该装置适用于任何类型的微流控芯片和任意种类的应用。细胞灌注套件的模块化特性使研究人员能够根据其独特的研究问题设计实验。
### 用该平台的应用示例
该装置能够在更真实的生理环境下评估潜在的候选药物。其高通量能力有利于同时筛选多种药物化合物，从而缩短药物发现时间并降低成本。
在此应用示例中，Chakrabarty等人(2)开发了一种新**型微流控癌症芯片（CoC）平台**来评估患者的治疗反应。该平台可确保肿瘤组织切片的生长条件受控，从而准确预测乳腺肿瘤和前列腺肿瘤模型的治疗结果。值得注意的是，培养周期可延长至14天，而不会影响组织质量，这证明了其在延长实验中的稳健性。
*图：癌症芯片的横截面，展示向组织切片的扩散和灌注情况。该CoC平台在整个培养周期中连接到Fluigent的高通量细胞灌注套件 (2)。*
## 适用于细胞培养和器官芯片模型的微流控芯片
微流控技术凭借对细胞微环境的精确控制脱颖而出，使细胞能够接收具有极高精度的机械和生化信号。器官芯片为研究控制人体器官功能的分子和细胞动力学创造了最佳环境，有利于在受控的体外环境中探索潜在的治疗靶标。
Fluigent提供各种微流控芯片，专门用于细胞培养、器官芯片、趋化性测定等各种应用。它们的应用范围十分广泛，从用于显微镜的标准流动吸收池到3D细胞培养设备，不一而足。
- Be-flow：用于2D和3D细胞培养
- Be-doubleFlow：包含两个可灌注通道，二者通过多孔膜连接
- Be-gradient Barrier Free：专为将电化学梯度应用于3D细胞培养而设计
- Be-transFlow：可以通过多孔膜将培养板与微流控通道连接起来，从而研究复杂的培养结构。这是用于气液界面（ALI）培养、内皮/上皮屏障和交互应答研究的最佳设备。
- FCS2®：这是一款封闭系统，带有活细胞显微观察腔室。除了均匀的温度控制和用户可定义的灌注功能外，它还与所有显微镜模式完全兼容。
[适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/)
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### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## References
1. Nat Protoc 17, 95–128 (2022).
2. Chakrabarty S, Quiros-Solano WF, Kuijten MMP, Haspels B, Mallya S, Lo CSY, Othman A, Silvestri C, van de Stolpe A, Gaio N, Odijk H, van de Ven M, de Ridder CMA, van Weerden WM, Jonkers J, Dekker R, Taneja N, Kanaar R, van Gent DC. A Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform Predicts Drug Response Using Organotypic Tumor Slice Culture. Cancer Res. 2022 Feb 1;82(3):510-520. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-21-0799. Epub 2021 Dec 6. PMID: 34872965; PMCID: PMC9397621.
---
### [适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 什么是器官芯片？
器官芯片（OOC）技术（图1）是指使用微流控芯片内的细胞（2D或3D形式）或组织切片来复制人体器官的功能或疾病。微流控技术可以精确控制细胞环境，为细胞提供更准确的机械和生化信号(1)。这些模型支持操控少量流体，从而有利于实现可扩展的动态细胞相互作用。通过将微流控技术与OOC技术相结合，可以重现人体器官功能，以研究人体生理机能和疾病。
微流控芯片设计的最新进展是利用几何形状和结构来模拟生理条件，如长度尺度、浓度梯度和流体产生的机械力。这些仿生平台克服了传统组织培养模型面临的许多限制。
**图1：从活体器官到器官芯片(1)。**
## 器官芯片技术的应用
### 疗法开发
器官芯片模型通过创新的工程方法和材料为药物筛选和开发提供了卓越的多功能性。研究领域出现了一个重要趋势，即利用人诱导性多能干细胞（hiPSC）创建个性化器官模型。这些模型通过使用多孔膜将培养板连接到微流控通道，有助于探索复杂的培养设置。这种配置是研究气液界面（ALI）培养、内皮/上皮屏障和细胞间通信的理想工具。
### 药物发现
体外器官芯片模型的进步有望预测人类对新型候选药物的反应。这些OOC模型为精确预测和详细研究潜在药物对人类造成的毒性创造了条件。此外，它们还有助于探索新的治疗策略来对抗观察到的毒性作用。在药物发现过程中，这些模型产生的见解有助于尽早识别、修改和优化先导化合物，从而促进更安全、在临床试验中成功的可能性更高的药物开发。
### 个性化医疗
器官芯片模型是进行精确预测和研究潜在药物相关人类毒性的宝贵资源。它们可以深入评估不同化学物质对患者特定人体组织的影响。此外，该模型还为探索新治疗途径奠定了基础，这些治疗途径可抵消观察到的与这些化合物相关的有害影响。在药物发现过程中，从这些模型中获得的见解不仅有助于尽早识别先导化合物，而且还能对其进行修改和优化。最终，这种方法可促进更安全药物的开发，提高这些药物在严格的临床试验中成功的可能性。
## 适用于器官芯片应用的精确流体处理
精确的流体处理是器官芯片应用的关键要素，旨在确保准确模拟生理条件并实现各种实验设置。要在OOC应用中实现精确的流体处理，需要采用微流控组件，例如微型泵、阀和微流控通道。这些系统使研究人员能够控制流速、梯度和流体成分的动态变化，为研究器官芯片和组织芯片提供更贴近生理条件的环境。
### 为什么精确的流体处理在OOC模型中至关重要？
#### 模拟生理条件
器官芯片设备需要精确控制流体流动，以准确复制人体器官的动态微环境。这种控制可确保细胞承受的流体剪切应力和梯度与人体内的细胞相似。
#### 细胞相互作用研究和组织工程
准确的流体处理支持研究细胞相互作用，例如内皮-上皮相互作用或血脑屏障，这对于了解疾病和药物反应必不可少。其对于在芯片内创建营养物质或信号分子的梯度、促进工程组织中的组织生长和成熟也至关重要。
#### 药物测试与开发
正确的流体处理有助于以特定浓度和速率输送药物或化合物，从而实现精确的药物测试和功效及毒性筛选。
#### 自动化和高通量筛选
精确的流体处理系统可以实现自动化，从而支持高通量实验及化合物或条件筛选。
### OOC模型示例
### 肺芯片 – 首个OoC
创新的人类肺泡芯片（图2）通过复制生理和病理生理综合反应重新定义了器官芯片（OoC）技术，超越了以前主要关注细胞或组织功能的模型。这一开创性的器官模型具有两个平行微通道：一个布满人肺上皮细胞，另一个布满人内皮细胞，并由微孔膜隔开。
实现细胞汇合后，将空气引入上皮层，形成气液界面，从而模拟肺泡气腔内壁。这种分隔的微型设备设计支持独立于上皮和内皮精确控制流体流动、细胞输送和营养分配。
*图2：*受生物学启发的人肺呼吸芯片微型设备设计(2)。
#### 肠道芯片
目前已针对小肠和大肠开发出几种创新的器官芯片（OoC）技术模型，其中利用的是带或不带底层内皮的肠上皮细胞。这些模型有两种用途：复制各种疾病并研究药物代谢和毒性。
在小肠芯片中，动态流体流动已被确定为促进绒毛形成和杯状细胞产生的关键因素，同时也促进了结肠芯片中保护性粘液层的构建。此外，模拟类似蠕动的机械运动对于实现最佳组织分化至关重要。例如，在结肠芯片模型中，循环机械拉伸和流体流动增强明显有利于细菌（以志贺氏杆菌为例）生长。
#### 肿瘤芯片
肿瘤芯片模型正迅速成为肿瘤学研究的有力工具。这些创新系统可有效复制肿瘤微环境（TME）的关键要素，包括生化梯度、生态位因子、复杂的细胞相互作用以及由肿瘤细胞和基质细胞构成的复杂组织结构(3)。肿瘤芯片设计旨在重现组织-组织界面，并在复制癌浸润和转移过程中的复杂相互作用方面发挥关键作用。现已设计出众多模型来操控TME并探索肿瘤细胞行为，例如研究细胞对代谢梯度的反应。还有一个示例显示了使用TOC模型的意义，即用于了解肿瘤细胞在体内缺氧环境中的新陈代谢和耐药性。此创新平台有望揭示肿瘤行为的关键方面并制定克服相关挑战的策略。
## Fluigent对OOC领域的贡献
Fluigent以促进科学进步为自身使命，特别是在充满活力的器官芯片技术领域。我们始终走在最前沿，不断寻求新的途径来推动研究向前发展，努力开拓创新解决方案，以重新定义科学探索的界限。
我们的承诺是推动器官芯片技术的进步，彻底改变这一领域的面貌。我们致力于寻找和提供创新解决方案，为研究人员提供支持，使他们能够更精确、更高效地探索生物系统。
[了解我们器官芯片领域的产品 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
## References
- Wu, Q.; Liu, J.; Wang, X.; Feng, L.; Wu, J.; Zhu, X.; Wen, W.; Gong, X. Organ-on-a-chip: Recent breakthroughs and prospects. Biomed. Eng. Online 2020, 19, 9.
- Huh, D. et al. Reconstituting Organ-Level Lung Functions on a Chip. Science (1979) 328, 1662– 1668 (2010).
- Imparato, G., Urciuolo, F. & Netti, P. A. Organ on Chip Technology to Model Cancer Growth and Metastasis. Bioengineering 9, 28 (2022)
---
### [液滴生产的先进解决方案](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 液滴平台
### FACS封装平台
Secoya采用Fluigent流量控制设备和Secoya乳剂技术开发和制造的**FACS细胞封装平台**（荧光激活细胞分选）**是一个完整的系统，**可在足够小（<90 µm）的高度单一分散双乳剂液滴中高通量封装复杂和单个细胞，以进行进一步分析。
[FACS封装平台 Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-platform-facs-cn.pdf)
**这种快速简便的系统可以将细胞封装在水核**（如培养基、PBS缓冲液）**和油壳**（如HFE 7500）**双乳剂**中，作为生化和细胞测定的强大工具。该平台能够在微反应器内隔离每个细胞，突显其特征并将信号集中到可测量的水平以获得有意义的生物数据。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/cell-encapsulation-set-up-cn.png)*标准细胞封装平台。*
**流式细胞术细胞封装平台的特点：**
- **Fluigent的精度和灵活性**：使用Fluigent压力式流量控制器和Raydrop可生成稳定且高度单分散的乳剂，同时精确控制液滴大小和壳厚。
- **立即开始乳剂生产：**该系统是一款装备齐全、安装完善且可控的工具，可在短时间内生成双乳剂。
- **完整且易于使用的精密工程系统**：我们的系统组织有序，需要简单的预充和清洁过程以获得更佳性能。其中包括专用光学设备，用于高频下优化液滴的可视化。
- **广受追捧的细胞分析创新应用：**该系统是一个易于使用的平台，可将单个细胞封装进与高通量筛选和FACS实验兼容的双乳剂液滴中。
**FACS封装平台支持：**
- **消除交叉污染的风险。**
- **在液滴内快速高效地混合试剂。**
- **处理数量有限的细胞**。
### 应用示例
**该封装平台结合FACS分选技术，用于分选封装荧光大肠杆菌的小液滴。** 将细菌限制在小液滴中对于进行单细胞分析至关重要，这样可以避免在基于蛋白质或酶分泌的生物测定中荧光信号的分散。
**水包油包水（W/O/W）双乳剂**在作为**微生物反应器，高效促进细菌生长的同时**，还能限制细胞活性和信号，因为油壳相可以防止荧光泄露。
**该平台生成的W/O/W液滴表现出良好的单分散性**，且该平台能在短时间内生成大量液滴且生物样品消耗低（<30分钟内产生200 mL双乳剂），这对于该应用非常有帮助。
 *使用(A)明场（BF）+绿色荧光蛋白（GFP）显微镜图像堆栈、(B)核心区域发现和(C)平均核心直径及其标准差对含荧光大肠杆菌的双乳剂进行显微观察和分析；标尺 = 20µm*
*(A)用于分选的FACS机，(B)放大查看分选区域，以及(C)细胞计量分析和门控*
---
### 微流控复合乳剂平台
**适用于所有类型乳剂和液滴的即用型平台**
**该复杂乳剂生产平台是一个快速简便的筛选系统，用于执行诸如单一乳剂和双重乳剂等乳化过程**。 通过集成、有序、即用型的平台，可以节省时间，并快速获得单分散的复杂乳剂。
*微流控复合乳剂平台*
**复杂乳剂平台特点：**
- **立即开始乳剂生产：**该系统是一款装备齐全、安装完善且可控的工具，用于设置复杂的乳剂、微粒和微胶囊生产过程。
- **精密工程系统：**通过组织有序的系统简化处理。
- 通过简单的预充和清洁过程性能更加稳健。
- **用于高频下优化液滴可视化的专用光学设备**，以及用于气泡故障排除的支架。
- **Fluigent精度**：使用Fluigent压力式流量控制器和Raydrop生成稳定且高度单分散的乳剂。
### 应用示例
**将多重乳剂封装在单个液滴中**
通过在复杂乳剂生产平台上串联使用两个Raydrop设备，演示单壳内封装多重乳剂。 通过调节核心相的流速，可以控制封装核心的数量。**通过将“双芯片串联”平台结构与Raydrop双乳剂设备结合使用，可以创造出更复杂的乳剂，包括在单个液滴中实现双乳剂多重封装**。这些令人鼓舞的结果可以作为协同传递系统或作为**不相容活性药物成分（API）或化学品的化学微反应器。**
*通过不同流速改变单个液滴中核心数量的多重乳剂图像*
*两个RayDrop串联放置*
## Microfluidic Packs a traduire
### PLGA微粒生产套件
**生产单分散PLGA微粒**
**PLGA微粒生产站一个稳健、高性能解决方案**，能够以一种均匀且完全受控的方式生成聚合物微粒。**RayDrop液滴生成器所提供的性能，**连同作为封装聚合物的聚（乳酸-乙醇酸）和作为溶剂的乙酸乙酯的组合，**提供生物相容性解决方案，降低危险风险和沉淀时间。**RayDrop及其工作站适用于生物应用领域，为实验室和临床环境最为广泛使用的一种药物输送系统提供半自动化解决方案。**与批量乳化法相比，液滴控制和生成能够实现高度单分散、稳定和连续的生产。**
[PLGA微粒生产套件 Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-plga-microparticle-cn.pdf)
**PLGA微粒生产套件的特点：**
- **完整系统**：PLGA套件为您提供启动PLGA微粒生产所需的全部组件。
- **精密工程解决方案**：该套件配备正确的压力控制器、微流控芯片和阀门，确保您在液滴尺寸和生成速率方面享有最大的灵活性。
- **专用方案：**我们提供可用方案助您设置并开始实验。
- **支持定制：**根据您的具体需求（如滴液尺寸、生成速率、双乳剂等），我们可以对PLGA微粒生产标准套件进行适应性调整。
### 应用示例
**已证明可成功生产直径在15至50 µm之间的PLGA微珠**。\[3\] 相较于市场上的其他技术，PLGA微粒生产套件具有出色的重现性和明显增强的单一分散性（变异系数仅为2%）。该套件能够不间断、长期生产用于研究的PLGA微粒。
*使用RayDrop生产PLGA微粒*
---
### 海藻酸盐珠生成套件
**一个用于生产单分散藻酸盐珠的系统。**
**Fluigent海藻酸盐珠生成套件是一套稳健且完整的系统，用于生产出色的单分散海藻酸盐珠**。 该生成套件设计灵活，可在数百毫秒内调整海藻酸盐珠的粒径大小，而无需中断生产。
**该生成套件依靠Fluigent LineUP 微流控泵和RayDrop设备驱动，这是一项用于高质量粒珠生产的突破性技术。**
**海藻酸盐珠生成套件的特点：**
- **完整系统：**该套件提供开始生成藻酸盐液滴所需的全部组件。
- **精密工程解决方案**：该套件由压力控制器、微流控芯片和阀门组成，可根据液滴尺寸和生成速率进行定制。
- **专用方案：**我们提供可用方案助您设置并开始实验。
- **支持定制**：根据您的具体需求（如滴液尺寸、生成速率等），我们可以对套件进行适应性调整。
### 应用示例
海藻酸盐微珠因其生物兼容、无毒、可生物降解和经济高效等特性，成为了最为广泛研究的细胞封装材料之一。
**使用RayDrop可以成功生产海藻酸盐珠，并精确控制液滴尺寸。使用藻酸盐水溶液可生成直径95-160μm的微珠。
该设置和方案可用于将哺乳动物细胞、细菌和其他试剂封装到海藻酸盐珠中。
使用RayDrop生产海藻酸盐珠
## 微流控芯片
### 用于高通量液滴测序（Drop-seq）实验的PDMS Drop-seq芯片
Drop-seq芯片
**我们的Drop-seq芯片是一款含有22种操作设计的PDMS芯片，其中包括硅烷疏水涂层。
**Drop-seq芯片的特点：**
- **专为Drop-seq设计**：每个液滴生成设备均基于McCarroll实验室Drop-seq方案上午最新推荐设计，确保获得最大的成功机会。
- **每个芯片进行的实验超过22次**：每个芯片都设计含有22个液滴生成设备，为用户提供物有所值的持久使用体验。如果一个设备的使用寿命耗尽，只需转到下一个设备即可。 此外，我们的drop-seq芯片可快速创建可用于高通量测序的样本库。
- **转录组文库的高效生产：**每个细胞的文库都有独一无二的条形码，每次实验实际上可以对超过一百万个细胞分别编码。文库生成和条形码标记的工作流程快速、简单、稳定可靠。
- **卓越设计促进组分流体实现最佳混合**，从而最大限度地降低微珠剪切或细胞和mRNA过早裂解的风险。
### 应用示例
**细胞亚群识别
Drop-seq芯片的主要应用之一是研究细胞群和识别细胞亚群。**通过分析单个细胞的转录组特征，研究人员可以识别具有相似基因表达模式的细胞，并将其分类到不同的亚群**。这有助于理解复杂组织（例如大脑或免疫系统）中细胞的多样性和功能。
**细胞分化分析
Drop-seq的另一个应用是研究发育过程。通过对不同发育阶段的单个细胞进行分离和测序，研究人员可以了解基因表达如何随时间变化以及细胞如何分化成不同的细胞类型。**这可以深入了解生物体如何发育以及不同细胞类型如何形成。**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/01/dropseq1-1.png)*Drop-seq方法的主要步骤* (1)
---
### 简单液滴生成芯片EZ Drop
该设备配备完全适配的液体处理解决方案和多种配件，旨在让您的实验过程尽可能简单顺利**。借助EZ Drop，您可以轻松生产具有高单分散性和稳定性的微流控液滴，从而实现精准的实验**。
**EZ Drop的特点：**
- **大范围的液滴生成速率**：油包水液滴，频率高达1 200 Hz
- **可定制的液滴尺寸**：通过控制流速可以轻松调节液滴尺寸，从而可以精确控制生成的液滴尺寸，可以产生20 µm至100 µm不等的液滴。
- **用户友好的微流控芯片**：PDMS微流控芯片带有标记可以确定滴液尺寸 – 集成电阻可避免回流。
### 应用示例
**EZ Drop芯片已用于演示表面活性剂在示例性数字PCR测定中的可用性**。\[6\] 生成的液滴形状和尺寸均一。实验的重现性也得到了证实。使用相同参数进行滴液生成会得到相同的滴液尺寸和质量。
*液滴生成过程。滴液生成器在滴落和射流两种模式之间转换操作。可以看出，操作模式在液滴尺寸和尺寸均一性方面没有显着差异。*
## Reference
(1) Macosko, E. Z. et al. Highly parallel genome-wide expression profiling of individual cells using nanoliter droplets. Cell 161, 1202–1214 (2015).
---
### [微流控研究设备](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
**Published:** December 7, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 有哪些可能的研究应用领域？
凭借我们的微流控研究设备，我们能够在各个研究领域获得颇有前景的最佳结果。
在微流控领域，我们的产品支持进行可再现性较高的实验。精确的流体控制对于分析微米级通道（例如微流控芯片或设备）内的流量的物理学原理和基本行为非常重要。
[查看有关Fluigent微流控专业技术的更多信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
[查看有关Fluigent微流控产品报价的更多信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
在器官芯片和细胞培养研究中，微流控技术具有独特的功能，支持以高时空精度控制细胞微环境，并在更贴近生理机能的环境下为细胞提供机械和生化信号。
[ 查看有关Fluigent细胞培养和器官芯片专业技术的更多信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
[查看有关Fluigent细胞培养和器官芯片产品的更多信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
在液滴和颗粒生成中，借助我们用于研究应用的微流控设备，用户可以进行需要高单分散性和可再现性的实验（数字PCR、液滴中的单细胞封装等），并可在使用昂贵API的情况下进行实验，因为该设备可以大幅减少废液。
[ 查看有关Fluigent液滴和颗粒生成专业技术的更多信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
[查看有关Fluigent液滴和颗粒生成产品的更多信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
在组学（特别是空间组学）中，结合使用微流控技术代表了生物学研究的突破。空间组学在空间尺度上分析生物分子，而微流控技术则可提高精度和效率。通过这种整合，可以详细了解组织中的分子相互作用，尤其是在癌症生物学等领域。微流控技术可减少试剂的用量并加快实验速度，提高研究效率，加速了解疾病的进程，从而改善诊断和治疗。
[ 查看有关Fluigent组学专业技术的更多信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
[ 查看有关Fluigent组学产品的更多信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics-technology/)
---
### [用于液滴生成的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 什么是乳剂和液滴
**乳剂是一种异质系统，至少由一种不相溶的液体以液滴形式分散在另一种液体中组成。**如果不进行乳化，两种液体就会分离，密度较小的相浮于密度较大的相之上**。沙拉酱就是常见的乳剂**。在由水相（醋）和油相（橄榄油）组成的油醋汁中，如果不进行乳化，这两种相就会分离。通过摇晃油醋汁瓶，醋会分散到油性连续相中，从而形成乳剂。**在乳剂中，一种液体（称为分散相）分散在另一种液体（称为连续相）中。**
*油包水滴液*
## 乳剂的常见应用有哪些？
聚合物中的生物分子封装\[1\]
**药剂学：**乳剂用于多种医药产品，包括静脉注射、肌肉注射、眼用或口服产品。**乳剂也可用作聚合物微粒、脂质纳米粒或微胶囊的模板。**例如，后者可以用于药物输送，乳剂本身就是活性药物成分（API），或可作为联合给药的佐剂。
**食品工业：**作为热力学上稳定的分散剂，乳剂可产生不同大小的液滴，这种独特性质使其适用于食品工业中的多种应用。
纳米封装作为一种有前景的方法，用于维生素靶向递送和控制释放。\[2\]
*利用微流控技术开发的化妆品产品。*
**化妆品：**化妆品中的乳剂类产品质地细腻、触感光滑，并且能够缓慢且持续地释放活性物质，**还可以改善不溶性物质的溶解或增溶。**最近，市场上出现了“豪流控”设备，可以生成肉眼可见的乳剂，从而可以开发极具视觉吸引力的独特产品。
## 为什么要使用液滴微流控技术？
### 1）传统液滴生成方法的局限性
**液滴产生的标准方法**包括使用高速搅拌机、高压阀均质机、胶体磨等机械设备。液滴破裂通常通过手动/机械搅拌产生的剪切或冲击应力来实现。在这种情况下，整个系统产生的应力通常并不均匀。因此，**生成的乳剂大小不一。这在许多应用中可能是一个严重的限制，因为乳剂的稳定性取决于尺寸。**
使用a)批量法和b)微流控法生成微乳剂
### 2）用于控制乳剂的微流控设备
**使用微流控系统进行的液滴生产已用于单分散性非常重要的应用**。通过微米级大小的通道一次生成一个液滴，从而可以产生出单一分散的液滴。**凭借这样的控制水平**，以前不可能实现的应用也成为可能，例如数字PCR和液滴内单细胞封装。此外，这种方法产生的浪费较少，**对于使用昂贵API（活性药物成分）的应用来说也十分理想**。在典型的微流控系统中，微流控芯片通过连接一个或多个流量控制器，以注入其中的流体。**液滴尺寸主要取决于微流控通道尺寸、流体特性（粘度）和所使用的流速。**
基于微流控的液滴生成和控制支持：
- **高度单分散**（尺寸变化<2%）液滴生产，与批量乳化方法相比，频率相对较高
- **高度可再现的复杂结构**（多重乳剂、多核乳剂……）
- **单个液滴操控，**作为独立皮升规模的生化反应器。
- **生产和生物分析设备的微型化**
## 如何克服液滴芯片材料和表面处理的限制。
**大多数商业微流控液滴生成器依赖于在聚合物或玻璃芯片中实现的平面流动聚焦配置。这种几何形状有很多限制**，比如需要**特定的涂层，或使用专用的表面活性剂**。相比之下，基于玻璃毛细管的液滴生产设备是一大改进，因为分散相永远不会与外毛细管壁接触（a，b）。
实现这些设计（毛细管居中）一直很困难，并且市面上可用的设计在液滴生产方面灵活性较差（直径> 100 µm，生成频率< 1 kHz）。**通过将两个圆形毛细管插入方形外部毛细管（c，d）中可以简化居中操作，但相关制造方法限制了大规模生产**，并且基于毛细管的高通量液滴生产尚未实现**。新的配置提供了一种可行的替代方案，将提取管放置在注射管的前方，并且不采取任何周围的限制措施**(e)。然而，该系统**仅在射流状态下工作，不能保证液滴单分散性**与滴落状态有关。
基于毛细管的可用轴对称液滴生成器设计。
## Raydrop：一种非嵌入式共流聚焦微流控液滴发生器
**Fluigent和Secoya合作开发了一款新系统，**基于前面提到的设计，**但有所创新，其中通过使用直径小于提取毛细管的注射毛细管来强制实现滴落状态**。这种方法结合了尖端加工和3D打印技术。这种非嵌入式设计**展现了共流和流动聚焦的特征**，并称之为“非嵌入式共流聚焦”设计。这种配置填补了微流控液滴生成器设计领域中的空白。
*a) Raydrop*分解图和*(b)*组装图。*(c) Raydrop*带有注射和提取玻璃毛细管。*(d)* 通过顶部窗口放大观察两个毛细管在填充连续相的室内对准的情景。*(e)* 放大观察基于毛细管的液滴生成区域。
*PLGA 微珠示例*
## Raydrop是一款商用微流控芯片，操作简单，能够生成非凡单分散性的液滴。
Raydrop®能够生产**简单乳剂**（水包油和油包水）以及**双乳剂**（油包水包油或水包油包水），无需涂层处理。
与单一乳剂相比，双乳剂优势众多。双乳剂通常更稳定且不易聚合，并且更易于处理和分析。**由于双乳剂**能够轻易分散在水连续相中（在生命科学领域的单一乳剂中较少见），因此可以通过自动化**细胞分选，例如荧光激活细胞分选（FACS），**进行表征和分类。此外，**双乳剂是通过固化外壳来生产微胶囊的绝佳模板。**
*PLGA（左）和壳聚糖（右）微胶囊示例*
## 流速在液滴生成中起什么作用？
**流速稳定性对于获得可重复的反应器体积和可再现的结果至关重要**。在微流控实验中，注射泵通常用于产生液滴。根据使用的型号，注射泵的流量控制有限。因此，液滴尺寸（与流速成比例）会受到影响。实际流速无法通过这种设备进行监控。设备上显示的是流速值，但没有给出达到设定流速所需的时间信息。（流量平衡的时间可能会随着微流控的设置而变化，而流速也会随着仪器的不同而波动）。**注射泵的替代品是Flow EZ压力式流量控制器。这些表明高精度流量控制、快速反应时间和流量监控可能实现**。与注射泵相比，流量更稳定且可重复。
[进一步探索我们的液滴相关产品和解决方案](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production)
## References
1. Iqbal, M., Zafar, N., Fessi, H., & Elaissari, A. (2015). Double emulsion solvent evaporation techniques used for drug encapsulation. International Journal of Pharmaceutics. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.10.057
2. Katouzian, I., Jafari, S.M., Nano-encapsulation as a promising approach for targeted delivery and controlled release of vitamins, Trends in Food Science & Technology (2016), https://doi: 10.1016/j.tifs.2016.05.002
---
### [工业应用](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/)
**Published:** November 22, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### 使用F-OEM打造适用于微流控应用的阀自动化
了解更多信息，探索应用示例、流控阀自动化的挑战以及使用我们的F-OEM流量控制平台的优势。
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/weiliukong-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
- [
### 用于复用的定位显微技术和流量控制
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/weiliukong-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
---
### [比较微流控压力控制器，选择您最理想的终极流体控制系统 ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 如何选择正确的微流控系统
**经济型压力
控制器****中端型压力
控制器** **高端型压力
控制器（Fluigent）** ****准确度**** 中等 良好 优秀 ****稳定性**** 差到中等 中等 优秀 **响应时间与
减压** ++++++****传感器校准****不可用 不可用 可用 **PID/算法
性能** 否（仅限模拟输入/输出） 良好 优秀 ****即用型**** 否（需数据采集） 否 是 ****流量传感器集成**** 不可用 不可用 可用 ****流速调节**** 否 否 是，通过
Fluigent算法 **微流控阀门
集成与自动化** 否 否 是 ****无噪声**** 否 是 是 ****价格**** 低 中等 中等至高 **与微流控
应用兼容**低 中等 高****典型应用**** 恒定压力供应：
震动阀，半导体 细胞培养与基础
液滴微流控 液滴微流控、细胞培养（OOAC）、
高级荧光显微镜学、
微流控光谱学
*表1：微流控应用中的压力控制器比较*
微流控技术在生命科学、化学和食品等领域的学术研究中得到了广泛应用，并逐渐在分析设备和生物反应器行业越来越受欢迎，因为该技术提供全新的分析水平，并带来了诸多好处，包括更可靠的结果以及减少试剂消耗。
目前流行的规模化应用包括用于细胞生物学、精细灌注和器官芯片研究的微流控技术，或用于生物封装（数字PCR、类器官）的液滴微流控技术。
## 工业流体控制的优势
在微流控领域，流量控制对于获得可靠结果至关重要。市场上有多种技术可供选择，包括注射泵、蠕动泵和压力控制器。
与注射泵相比，压力控制通常提供更高的性能和可靠性，因此是微流控领域的首选技术。然而，市场上所有可用的压力控制器并不相同，其中一些不适合微流控。
每种类型都有其自身的特性和功能，满足不同的预算限制和研究要求。根据用户需求，有的用户会优先考虑更高的性能和可靠性，这通常意味着更高的成本，而另一些用户则会在预算有限的情况下，选择性能有所降低的设备。
## 在众多的压力控制器和调节器中，哪一种是最适合微流控的压力控制器？
### 有哪些不同的压力控制器？
我们确定了市场上3种不同类型的压力控制器供用户选择，并从成本效益和质量方面对它们进行了比较。
- 经济型压力控制器是最基本、最实惠的选择，与中端和高端选项相比，其性能通常较低。
- 中端型压力控制器在价格和性能之间提供一种平衡。与经济型压力控制器相比，性能有所提升，但仍然发现
- 高端型压力控制器，顾名思义，兼具最高水平的准确度和稳定性。这些设备专为精度和可靠性极为重要的应用而设计，通常用于微流控领域中。这里使用的压力控制器是Fluigent Flow EZ和F-OEM
首先，我们在性能（准确性、稳定性、响应时间）方面比较了这 3 种压力控制器，接下来重点关注可用性和集成能力。我们最后讨论了每种设备能够实现的应用。
### 根据性能选择压力控制器
选择压力控制器时，常见做法是比较产品技术文档（如产品数据表或用户手册）上列出的规格。有几个重要参数需要考虑，如产品准确度、重复性或响应时间。
虽然这是筛选明显不符合规格产品的好方法，但过程复杂，因为一些生产商根据构成压力控制器的传感器或阀门给出规格，而其他生产商则倾向于提供基于实际测试的数据。
除了规格之外，压力控制器的总体性能还取决于其调节算法。事实上，基本的压力控制器仅提供基于电压的模拟通信，而有些高级控制器可以提供PID控制器，支持提供实时反馈回路并根据压力传感器反馈调整压力。这最终会影响压力稳定性、准确度、响应时间和压力转换。
我们在这里根据准确度、响应时间和压力转换经济型、中端型和高端型压力控制器（压力范围为0至1 bar）进行微流控压力控制器比较。
### 探讨您的压力控制器的精确度和稳定性
准确度是选择压力控制器时要考虑的关键因素。压力控制器的高准确度可确保达到所需的压力设定值。此外，压力稳定性是选择压力控制器时要考虑的一个关键因素，因为许多应用都依赖于稳定的加压过程。
我们通过设定750 mbar的压力，使用外部校准压力传感器进行测量，并保持设定的750 mbar压力超过10小时，来执行准确度和稳定性分析。
通过这种方法，我们能够了解设备在连续运行条件下的表现，并检测任何仅在长时间运行期间才会显现的漂移或稳定性问题。
**图1：使用经济型、中端型和高端型压力控制器进行准确度和稳定性比较**
图1显示了经济型、中端型和高端型压力控制器的压力准确度和稳定性。从平均值可以看出，经济型和中端型压力控制器相比于750 mbar的目标值，准确度偏差超过2 mbar。这可能与两种产品均不具备实时校准功能有关，导致与目标值相比发生偏移，最终产生噪声（见图2）。
图2无可用校准情况下中端压力控制器的固有噪声
## 高端系统增强长期稳定性和准确度
使用高端压力控制器，平均值为749.81 mbar，偏差为+/- 0.082 mbar。高端压力控制器是最准确的设备，与目标值相比偏差小于0.2 mbar，使其成为准确度最高的产品。
我们可以在此分析的另一个参数是稳定性。我们观察到，使用经济型系统时，实验开始压力即达到 750 mbar，但不到一小时就可以观察到施加的压力发生了变化，约30分钟后变为749 mbar，几小时后变为748 mbar。我们观察到中端压力控制器也有相似的压力漂移现象，但变化幅度更小（从747.5降至747 mbar）。
使用高端压力控制器时，约749.8 mbar的压力可保持稳定超过8小时，没有显示任何漂移。此外，我们观察到长期稳定性和准确度得到提高，因为它始终保持在所需的压力范围内，并且具有值得称赞的稳定性。
### 响应时间：您希望以多快的速度调节压力？
响应时间是选择压力控制器时要考虑的另一个重要因素。一个性能良好的压力控制器将能够快速应对压力变化并保持稳定。
由于微流控系统中过程的精确性和细致性，压力控制器的响应时间是微流控中的一个关键因素。具有快速和准确响应时间的压力控制器可确保设定值或外部条件发生变化时，系统能够快速适应并保持所需压力，将超调或振荡降至最低。这对于维护实验或过程的完整性至关重要，因为压力调整的延迟或不准确可能会导致数据受损、流体控制无效，并可能损坏敏感的微流控组件。
我们在这里进行2次响应时间测试：压力增加（400 mbar -> 500 mbar）和压力减少（500 mbar -> 400 mbar）。
我们将响应时间定义为系统达到目标值的98%所需的时间，并且能够在目标值的2%容差范围内保持稳定。请注意，我们无法在经济型压力控制器上执行此测试，因为该控制器仅通过模拟I/O进行控制，并且不包含PID控制器。
**图3：使用中端压力控制器和高端压力控制器的响应时间**
**响应时间
400至500 mbar**
**响应时间
500至400 mbar**
******中端压力控制器****** *0.8 s**0.7 s*******高端压力控制器****** *0.8 s**0.1 s*
*表2：微流控应用中的压力控制器比较*
## 高端流体控制器响应时间更快
图3显示了使用中端压力控制器和高端控制器的加压和减压性能。当使用中端压力控制器进行加压时，我们观察到达到目标值98%的时间为0.8秒，而使用高端压力控制器的时间也是0.8秒。对于减压，我们观察到达到目标值98%的时间为0.7秒，而使用高端压力控制器的时间则为0.1秒。
这表明中端压力控制器和高端压力控制器在100 mbar压力过渡时的增压响应时间相似，而对于减压，高端压力控制器的响应时间大约快10倍。
此外，使用中端压力控制器，我们可以在达到稳定阶段后观察到轻微的压力振荡和超调现象，这也主要源于调节算法性能。
此外，当需要停止流体方案时，减压时间将取决于所使用的压力控制器。图4显示了使用中端和高端压力控制器从500 mbar到400 mbar的减压时间。我们可以观察到使用中端和高端压力控制器分别需要0.7秒和0.1秒。
***图 4：使用中端压力控制器和高端压力控制器的响应时间***
减压时间对微流控方案有很大影响，因为在减压期间，即使实验已经结束，液体仍然会继续注入。减压期间注入的珍贵液体被浪费，最终会增加实验成本。根据所使用的系统和相关的流体阻力，减压时间可能超过几十秒！
### 平滑性决定优劣：产品算法和PID是影响性能的关键
正如上文所述，产品规格并不能说明一切。PID和算法也会对性能产生影响。图5显示了中端压力控制器从较高压力过渡期间的压力曲率。当过渡到100 mbar时，我们可以观察到一些抖动，而使用高端压力控制器则不会观察到这种情况（图5）。
图5使用经济型和高端型压力控制器的减压时间比较
在压力控制器之间的比较分析中，我们观察到性能上存在明显差异，特别是在准确度和稳定性方面。经济型压力控制器表现出更明显的波动，并且需要更长的时间才能达到平衡状态。此外，与对应产品相比，该控制器稳定在一个不太精确的压力范围内。
另一方面，高端型产品表现出明显更平滑和更稳定的过渡轮廓。不仅高效快速地达到稳定状态，还与所需的准确度水平紧密对齐。
这种在不同条件下保持一致压力控制的卓越性能，凸显了该高端产品的先进工程和设计。
这些特性在微流控应用中尤其重要，其中精确的压力控制对于保持结果的完整性和准确性至关重要。
图6中端压力控制器和高端压力控制器之间的压力转换比较
### 微流控技术需要专业知识进行集成
#### 上市时间：您的压力控制器是否可以随时使用且易于集成？
当使用简单的压力控制器时，它们通常不配备即用型软件和高级功能。对于低成本和中端型号，需要模数通信转换器来进行正确的数据采集和解释。
这一额外步骤需要考虑额外的内部开发和上市时间。我们在下面介绍基于即用型功能的微流控压力控制器比较：
- 经济型压力控制器：需要开发一个额外的DAQ设备来控制系统。不需要模数转换器意味着设计更加先进和集成，更符合现代数字接口和标准。
- 中端型压力控制器：虽然不需要额外的DAQ（所有内部电子设备都集成到设备中），但需要开发自定义软件接口来开始测量。
- 高端压力控制器：即用型软件，提供高级专用软件开发套件（SDK），支持多种语言（Python、C++、C#）
## 掌握微流控环境：用于流速控制、阀门管理和自动化的压力控制器
### 流量控制和压力控制有什么区别？
微流控中的许多过程需要精确监控并调节流速，以及集成阀门以自动化复杂的工作流程，从而确保重复性和可靠性。
高效的流速监控有助于精确的体积注射，而阀门自动化对于样品制备、复用或清洁过程等任务至关重要。
浏览我们的文章，深入了解流控阀自动化遇到的挑战以及我们的F-OEM流量控制平台所提供的优势。
与传统的压力控制器相比，经过集成和控制微流控流量传感器和阀门来实现先进的调节能力需要电子、机械和微流控方面的专业知识。
所有微流控组件之间的同步对于实现无缝自动化至关重要。对于传统的压力控制器，集成应该由微流控专家完成，这可能导致过程成本高、耗时长且依赖资源，并可能会影响上市时间并损害最终系统的可靠性。
我们的高端微流控压力控制器通过与内部微流控流量传感器和阀门无缝连接而脱颖而出。控制这些组件需要无需额外开发，通过专用软件和SDK即可提供简化的解决方案，在不牺牲上市时间的情况下提高效率和可靠性。
- 经济型压力控制器：需要开发
- 中端型压力控制器：需要开发
- 高端压力控制器：可直接与Fluigent流量传感器和阀门一起使用
## 上述压力控制器可实现哪些典型应用？
如上所示，每个压力控制器都有独特的性能，根据参数的不同，性能从差/中等到优秀不等。微流控应用通常需要高水平的流控性能。因此，这里讨论的所有压力控制器并不涵盖微流控领域的所有应用。
- 经济型压力控制器：经济型压力控制器在准确度或稳定性方面表现一般或较差。此外，PID不可用。这使得该产品仅适用于不需要高度稳定压力，且不需要在短时间内（几秒钟）快速调节压力的应用场景。该控制器适用于流速高于每分钟一百毫升的低精度分析设备。典型应用包括气相色谱和半导体工艺。在微流控中，它可用于注入压力以打开/关闭阀门，例如在震动阀过程中。
- 中端型压力控制器：中端型压力控制器在准确度或稳定性方面表现中等或出色。提供基本的PID控制，可用于要求不高的微流控应用。该控制器可用于微流控细胞灌注和培养，以及某些需要保持稳定生产并且不经常改变流速的液滴微流控过程。然而，不适合复杂的微流控方案，或者需要使用极少量样品试剂的过程。
- 高端压力控制器：Fluigent的高端压力控制器专为满足所有微流控应用要求而开发。因此，总体性能非常出色，包括出色的准确度、稳定性和响应时间。该压力控制器采用的专利调节算法支持在任何微流控方案期间精细调节压力，并且默认集成流量传感器和阀门，从而执行复杂的微流控方案。应用范围广泛，包括用于数字PCR和封装的液滴微流控、用于细胞生物学中的器官芯片和细胞培养、细胞分选和流式细胞术以及需要在自动化所有复用方案的同时节约珍贵样品试剂的高级荧光显微技术。
---
### [为微流控应用选择OEM压力控制器而非OEM注射泵的五大理由 ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 1. 压力控制实现超凡性能
在微流控和毫流控应用中，如液滴微流控、药物筛选、细胞分析或细胞生物学和显微镜下的动态细胞培养，稳定精确的流速，加上快速的沉淀时间，通常是先决条件。
### 压力控制提升稳定性并缩短沉淀时间
在生成微流控液滴的系统中，通常需要快速沉淀时间（即输出信号达到瞬时压力变化的特定百分比，例如95%，所需的时间）以直接达到目标流速，并进而达到所需的液滴尺寸。这可以最大限度地缩短瞬态阶段，减少其中生成的液滴（可能包含昂贵的试剂或细胞）无法被利用的情况，并最终减少微流控方案的浪费和成本。另一方面，稳定的流速可确保液滴尺寸均匀，从而确保实验方案长期可靠。
#### A. 沉淀时间：系统中的实际流速是多少？
**OEM注射泵和沉淀时间**
工业注射泵由一个简单的线性运动源组成，该运动源由步进电机驱动，控制活塞的驱动速度。流速可以通过活塞速度和截面直接推导出来。沉淀时间不仅取决于注射泵的机械结构，还取决于微流控系统的流体阻力。当执行或修改预设流速时，流控系统中的内部压力会增加并使其变形，而不是推动液体流动。
根据系统的流体阻力和弹性不同，沉淀时间从百分之一毫秒到几分钟不等。在工业应用中使用注射泵执行流速时，注射泵会显示预设的流速值，但不提供有关实际流速或达到该设定流速所需时间的信息。微流控设备缺乏真实流速信息是实验和方案失败的主要原因之一。
**OEM压力控制器的响应时间最快**
压力控制器可以对装有液体的储液瓶或罐进行加压。当使用压力控制器时，压力几乎瞬间施加到储液瓶上。 例如，Fluigent仪器中使用的阀门通常响应时间低于30毫秒，低于注射泵中使用的电机。F-OEM及其FASTAB技术等反应系统具有快速的沉淀时间。下图显示了Fluigent F-OEM压力控制器与标准注射泵配合使用的响应时间。对于大多数流控系统来说，目标压力可以在不到几秒钟的时间内达到（主要取决于压力源和相关气体流速以及要加压的气动量）。
**图1：压力式流量控制器之间的响应时间**
#### B. 精细调节的压力带来超凡的稳定性
注射泵的流量稳定性取决于其电机提供的最小机械步进。因为活塞的增量与注射量相关，所以移动量最小导致注射量最小。步进电机将在低流速下引起脉冲或振荡，这与技术有关，而不是由于外部参数。因此，市场上大多数注射泵无法达到低于0.35%的稳定性，这个数值已经是使用小容量注射器（如直径较小的注射器和约10毫升的注射器）高端注射泵所能达到的稳定性，虽然可以提高稳定性，（但不可避免会影响可以注入的体积和能够达到的最大流速）。
当使用压力控制器对储液瓶或罐加压时，样品会顺利注入微流控系统中。该技术通常利用电磁阀，可以对施加的压力进行极其精细的调节。由于没有机械部件与流体接触，压力控制器可以建立无脉冲流量，即使是最精确的注射泵也无法获得这种流量。使用Fluigent控制器，可以获得变异系数< 0.1%的压力稳定性，并为新兴应用提供新的稳定性水平。
**图2：压力式流量控制器的压力稳定性**
#### C. 通过流量传感器实现更高的液体流速准确度和调节能力：压力驱动流量控制
****内置流量传感器可实现快速准确的流速监控和调节****
如果想直接监测流量，可以在系统中添加液体流量传感器。流量传感器还可用于确保流控方案的正常运行，允许流量/体积监控，或者方案失败识别和预防。流量传感器可以作为压力控制器的补充，因为它们可以通过施加算法开发“反馈循环”系统，通过压力来调节流速。Fluigent提供压力式流速调节技术，得益于其获得专利的“自学习”算法，可以在实验进行时调整流速，以控制分配的样品量和/或样品流速。下图比较了Fluigent压力式流量控制和标准OEM注射泵之间的流速稳定性。通过使用我们的调节算法结合流量传感器，可以实现< 5%的流速稳定性，而使用注射泵观察到的流速稳定性约为10%。
**图3：OEM注射泵（灰色）与OEM压力式流量控制器（蓝色）之间的比较**
****需要在没有安装流量传感器的流控线上实现高性能压力驱动流量控制？****
随着利用微流控的生物应用不断增长，对流控线上完全无菌和一次性环境的需求正在急剧增长。Fluigent是唯一一家提供专用于流控应用的**非侵入式流量传感器**公司。
Fluigent的标准OEM压力式流量控制解决方案由高精度压力控制器（Fluigent PX或F-OEM）和非侵入式流量传感器组成，无需流体路径上安装任何元件或进行流体校准即可实现出色的流速调节。NIFS可以实现非接触式实时流速监控和调节。
凭借这一独特的系统，Fluigent领先于其他微流控压力驱动流量控制提供商以及工业注射泵供应商。
**图4：注射泵系统与Fluigent压力式流量控制系统**
****Fluigent压力控制器**** ****OEM注射泵**** ****准确度**** 变异系数（CV）< 0.1%满量程（FS） ~ 1% ****压力分辨率 （最小压力步长）**** 0.03% FS 不适用 **响应时间** 压力控制器： < 30 ms 不适用 **沉淀时间** 压力：< 2 s
流速： < 5 s 从几秒钟到几分钟具体取决于流控系统 **出口压力范围** 正值范围：0至25 mbar、0至69 mbar、0至345 mbar、0至1000 mbar、0至2000 mbar、0至7000 mbar
负值范围：0至-25 mbar、0至-69 mbar、0至-345 mbar、0至-800 mbar
Push-Pull：-800至+1000 mbar 不适用 **液体流速范围** 0至10 mL/min > 200 mL/min **注射量** 最多 1 L < 140 mL（受最大注射器体积限制） **流速监控与调节** 使用流量传感器：测量值误差< 5% 无实时监控。 **与无菌环境兼容/污染风险** 适用
无菌储液瓶，液体未接触任何机械部件
使用NIFS，无需在流控线上安装任何系统即可控制流速 可能
可使用一次性塑料注射器，但性能降低
玻璃注射器：每次实验都需要灭菌/清洁步骤 **与长期方案兼容** 适用
稳定压力供应 受注射器储液瓶限制
随时间变化，使用的注射泵和注射器可能导致不稳定****维护**** 无需维护 注射器对准、密封维护 ## 2.不再需要为了更大的注射量而牺牲稳定性。在实施注射和重新补液的过程中节省时间。
如上所述，注射器容量（更具体而言，截面）越大，流速稳定性越低。因此，注射泵用户需要在稳定性和最小注射量之间进行选择，这并不总是可行，具体取决于目标应用。此外，大多数专用于微流控工业应用的注射泵体积不超过60 mL，这对于任何需要缓冲液的应用来说可能是一个严重的限制。
当使用压力控制器时，可以使用更大的储液瓶。借助Fluigent压力系统，可以使用容量高达1 L的瓶子，而不会影响系统通过压力提供的出色流量稳定性。使用压力式系统，加液和重新补液过程非常简单。
## 3.为您的微流控系统提供经济高效的解决方案
乍一看，压力驱动流量控制系统可能比注射泵系统更昂贵，因为添加压力源和流量传感器（如果需要）会增加整个系统的成本。然而，压力控制器的一些优势和持续的技术改进最终会影响系统的最终成本，其中包括：
- 一条通道供应多个储液瓶
可以使用一个压力控制器对多个储液瓶加压，但这对于注射泵来说不太可行，因为流速不可能均匀分配。
- 更快的响应时间意味着更少的试剂消耗和浪费
如上所述，在流速不稳定的瞬态阶段，数据无法有效利用，并且该阶段使用的试剂也会浪费。最大限度地缩短这一瞬态阶段可以优化试剂消耗，从而降低实验成本。
- 压力源和控制一体化降低总体成本
Fluigent开发的最新技术：紧凑型一体式微流控微型泵，体积小，重量轻（L\*l\*H = 7\*5\*4 cm），提供集成压力供应和控制（正压和负压），这款设备不仅成本效益高，而且具有独特的紧凑设计，并且成本更低。
## 4.减少清洁问题和污染造成的危害
使用高精度注射泵需要非一次性玻璃、钢或陶瓷注射器，因为塑料注射器容易变形会影响稳定性。那些非一次性注射器通常没有经过消毒。 这对于许多生物应用来说是一个限制，因为流体路径上无菌是强制要求。此外，如果使用可重复使用的注射器，需要进行清洁，这不仅仅是一个繁琐的步骤，更重要的是增加了污染风险，这可能会导致实验失败。
使用压力控制器时，没有任何机械部件与液体接触。人们可以使用标准的一次性管或储液瓶，如果需要的话可以对其进行消毒。因此，与OEM注射泵相比，使用压力控制器可以降低污染风险。
## 5.使用压力控制器减少维护工作
在开发集成液体处理组件的微流控系统时，重要的是要考虑所有部件的生命周期以及延长系统使用寿命所需的维护。使用注射泵时，需要采取耗时的维护步骤来避免性能下降或方案失败：
- 对准步骤：注射器对准和安装不正确会影响精度和准确度。也可能因为安装力过大而损坏注射器密封。每次更换注射器后都必须执行此操作。
- 密封维护：如果泵密封没有随时间变化得到正确维护，可能会发生泄漏并导致分配不够准确。活塞密封通常还含有一层硅油润滑剂，这层润滑剂会随着使用和接触液体而逐渐磨损。需要定期进行重新润滑维护，以避免出现性能问题或损坏。
使用压力控制器时，由于不与液体接触，维护工作量大大减少。确保清洁的压力源通常足以使压力控制器正常工作数年。无需在开始方案之前进行对准或校准步骤，这与工业应用的注射泵不同。压力控制器可确保延长系统使用寿命，减少与Fluigent支持团队联系的时间。
作为精确液体控制和自动化领域的专家和领导者，Fluigent为生命科学到诊断领域的制造商提供创新的OEM仪器和定制服务。
---
### [微流控OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
**Published:** December 15, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 微流控OEM：自动化液体处理解决方案
Fluigent公司依托其在压力式流量控制领域15年以上的专业知识和专有技术，为全球用户提供多功能、经济高效、可定制的微流控OEM产品和系统。
## 工业领域的制造能力
Fluigent OEM 产品建立在我们15年压力式流量控制专业知识和专有技术的基础之上，为生命科学和诊断设备制造商提供多功能、经济高效且可定制的微流控OEM流体处理产品和系统
[OEM Fluigent手册](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/09/fluigent-oem-brochure.pdf)
## 微流控功能
+ 附加功能：加热器、振荡器、移液机器人、除泡器等
## 流体压力控制器
提供最先进的、模块化、可集成的微流控OEM模块[，](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/)用于处理工业系统中的流体。了解我们经过现场验证的液体处理模块。
[查找减压器](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products/pressure-controllers-for-liquids/)
## 微流控组件
提供最先进的、模块化、可集成的微流空OEM模块，用于自动化流体管理并构建完整的微流控系统。
[查找微流控 OEM 模块](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products/oem-microfluidic-components/)
## 全集成系统开发
### *让您的设备愿景变为现实*
根据您的要求完成完全可操作设备的开发。利用我们在微流控OEM的专业知识和独特的尖端技术组合，可加快产品上市时间。
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## 我们为您的微流控应用提供支持
从液滴微流控到活细胞成像，我们的专家都能您的应用领域提供宝贵的专业见解。
探索微流控促进工业过程结果、生产和产量的应用领域。
“我对产品的质量印象深刻。我特别想强调Fluigent团队清晰开放的沟通方式、流畅的管理风格，当然还有出色的研发工作。”
## 您的微流控OEM系统值得信赖的合作伙伴
在过去的10年里，我们已向全球企业提供了1,500多个微流控OEM模块和系统。我们的研发团队占公司总人数的30%以上，这种重视程度让我们获得了20多项专利。
## 65
家OEM/工业客户，遍布全球
## 20
项专利，让我们走在创新最前沿
## 15
套不同的完全集成OEM系统已开发完成
## 1500**+**
套OEM系统和组件已交付完成
## 10
多年OEM实验室自动化经验
## 最高质量标准和合规性– ISO 9001
我们不断提高产品和过程质量，确保符合我们的OEM微流控解决方案的要求。我们致力于保证质量，并继续获得ISO 9001认证。此外，我们还成功通过了多次外部审计，并能够有效提供经过额外认证的组件和系统，例如UL或IP65认证
我们致力于**让客户满意，并提供长期支持，开发出最适合客户需求的最佳解决方案**
有关更多信息或技术讨论
---
### [hiPSC衍生血管器官芯片：通过单向流实现生理性细胞排列](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/application-notes/hipscs-derived-vascular-organ-on-chip/)
**Published:** March 17, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
这项工作是与莱顿器官芯片中心及**[莱顿大学医学中心](https://www.orlovalab.com/ "莱顿大学医学中心")**Orlova课题组的Dhanesh Kasi博士、Hanna Lammertse博士和Valeria Orlova博士共同合作完成的。
## 面临的挑战：为什么单向流至关重要
体外模型有望通过补充、减少甚至潜在替代动物实验，彻底改变生物医学研究的现状。结合人诱导多能干细胞（hiPSCs）及获取器官特异性细胞的分化方案，科学家可以构建先进的人类体外模型，用于开发新药、揭示人类疾病机制以及推动个性化医疗的发展1,2。微流控器官芯片（OoC）模型尤为适合此类研究，因为它们在可灌注的微米级腔室内培养活体人类细胞，以微型化的形式高度模拟组织和器官的功能1–3。
在人体中，健康的动脉和静脉承受着持续的层流剪切应力。为了在体外完美复制这一环境，仅靠静态培养或双向（摇床）流动是远远不够的。
- **静态培养：**会导致非生理性的“鹅卵石”状细胞形态。
- **双向流：**模拟的是受扰动的病理状态（例如动脉粥样硬化）。
- **单向流：**是诱导成熟、静息内皮表型的关键所在。
## 解决方案：Omi™ OoC平台
[Fluigent的Omi是](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "Fluigent的Omi是")一款紧凑且易于使用的微流控系统。研究人员可以利用它轻松连接自己关注的器官芯片模型，并建立带有液体循环功能的微流控单向流实验。Omi™将复杂的微流控技术大幅简化，转化为一个用户友好的自动化系统。
### 血管建模的核心功能：
- **持续循环：**仅需极少量的培养基（3.3 mL），即可维持长达5天以上的稳定流态。
- **广泛兼容性：**通过标准鲁尔接头（Luer fittings）可无缝连接任何芯片（例如Beonchip Be-Flow）。
- **智能控制：**直观的安卓操作界面，便于进行精准校准和流量编程。
[了解更多关于Omi的信息](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "了解更多关于Omi的信息")
## 实验结果：一目了然
在本应用说明中，我们使用连接了Beonchip Be-Flow芯片的Omi系统，进行了为期5天的单向流实验。芯片内提前接种了hiPSC衍生的内皮细胞（hiPSC-ECs）4,5。我们将该条件下的芯片与静态培养的芯片，以及在摇床上进行双向流培养的芯片进行了对比分析。
特征静态培养双向流（摇床）Omi™单向流流动状态无流动间歇/反向流动稳定/持续流动细胞形态鹅卵石状随机分布细长且排列整齐极化程度无低 (0.024)强 (0.174)剪切应力0 dyn/cm2不固定0.912 dyn/cm2## 实验流程与定量数据：为期5天的自动化工作流程
本应用说明提供了一套详尽的、循序渐进的实验工作流程，涵盖从细胞接种到定量图像分析的各个环节。
您将了解到：
- 针对hiPSC衍生内皮细胞的5天单向流实验方案
- Omi™的设备设置及循环工作流程
- 静态、双向和单向流动条件的直接对比
- 使用PolarityJam软件对细胞排列和极化进行定量分析
- 在长期培养过程中成功维持稳定流动的实验证据
### 1 细胞分化、培养与接种
hiPSCs维持在涂有重组玻连蛋白的培养皿中，使用TeSR-E8培养基，每周传代一次。hiPSC-ECs的衍生和日常维持按照Orlova课题组此前描述的方法进行4,5。Beonchip Be-Flow微流控芯片预先涂有50 µg/mL的牛纤连蛋白。将hiPSC-ECs解离并重悬于添加了青霉素-链霉素（PenStrep）的EGM-2培养基中，浓度调整为510^6细胞/mL。小心地将50 µl细胞悬液移液至芯片入口，使细胞被动泵入芯片内部。细胞在37°C下贴壁1小时后，将芯片转移至摇床平台上过夜培养15小时。
第二天，实验正式启动。将芯片分别置于静态培养、继续留在摇床平台上（双向流）或连接至Omi系统（单向流）。
### 2 Omi系统设置
使用Omi软件创建了一个为期5天的自动化循环实验方案，并将其加载至Omi设备上（图2A）。该软件通过内置的逐步说明引导用户完成每一步操作，包括：
**1. 校准：**设置储液槽液位传感器，以确保流量测量的准确无误。
**2. 灭菌：**依次用纯水和70%乙醇冲洗Omi的流体路径及实验管路。注意：使用前，所有接头和管路均已通过高压蒸汽灭菌或浸泡在灭菌液中进行了严格消毒。
**3. 预充液：**用培养基预先填充流体路径，以彻底排除气泡并确保液体的连续流动。
**4. 芯片连接：**在开始循环灌注之前，将Omi与微流控芯片（Beonchip Be-Flow）稳妥连接（图2）。
包含hiPSC-ECs的微流控芯片（Beonchip Be-Flow）通过标准鲁尔接头和微流控管路连接至Omi，以确保整个连接处绝对防漏（图2）。用户可以通过平板电脑上一款直观的安卓应用程序同时控制多台Omi设备（图2）。
该应用程序还允许用户自主配置流态，并执行校准和清洁程序。在配置好所需的流态参数和时间范围（图1）后，向Omi中加入少量培养基（仅3.3 mL）。最后，启动实验，并将Omi放入标准培养箱中运行（图2）。
*图1 实验工作流程概述*
*图2 两台连接了微流控芯片的Fluigent Omi在培养箱内稳定运行右上角为控制Omi设备的直观界面平板电脑*
### 3 免疫荧光与成像
对样本进行固定、透化、封闭处理后，与一抗（VE-钙粘蛋白和GM130）过夜孵育，随后进行二抗和DAPI染色。使用配备20倍物镜的EVOS M7000显微镜（Thermo Fisher Scientific）对样本进行高分辨率成像。在每个微通道中随机选择六个位置进行拍摄。每个实验条件均设置四个技术重复。
### 4 hiPSC-EC排列与极化的定量分析
使用[PolarityJam](https://polarityjam.readthedocs.io/en/latest/ "PolarityJam")软件6分析免疫荧光图像，以精准量化hiPSC-ECs的排列和极化情况。所有图像均在PolarityJam中进行处理，并汇总数据以绘制细胞方向和极化图表。
## 实验结果：稳定的单向流驱动hiPSC衍生内皮细胞的排列与极化
### 1 带循环功能的稳定单向流态
为了更好地支持hiPSC-ECs的生长并温和地促进其顺应流向进行排列，我们按图3A所示配置了流态。流速每24小时提升一次，并维持在200 μL/min的最大流速（对应剪切应力为0.912 dyn/cm²）长达48小时。Omi能够持续稳定地维持这些流速，并在指定的时间点平稳切换到更高的流速（图3B）。
需要特别指出的是，每个循环周期结束后都会伴随一个重新充液的过程，此时水流会暂停最多一分钟（从图表中流速降至0 μL/min的节点可以看出）。得益于系统的循环特性，实验期间无需额外补充任何培养基。对VE-钙粘蛋白进行免疫染色后的定性观察清晰地表明，单向流促使hiPSC-ECs沿流动方向实现了高度一致的排列（图3C）。
图3 不同条件下的流量控制与内皮细胞生理响应*(A) 实验中使用的流速和时间间隔汇总表。*
*(B) 具有代表性的流量轨迹图，表明Omi能够在不同流速间精准切换，并在提供循环功能的同时长时间维持设定流速。*
*(C) 分别在静态、双向流（使用摇床）和单向流（使用Omi）条件下培养的hiPSC-ECs的免疫荧光图像。*
### 2 hiPSC-EC排列与极化的定量分析
借助PolarityJam软件6，我们可以对hiPSC-EC的排列和极化情况进行定量分析（图4A）。在使用Omi施加单向流五天后，hiPSC-ECs表现出极其强烈的极化，并完美平行于流动方向排列（图4A左图及图4B上部图表）。
图4. 依赖于流动的内皮细胞排列与极性综合评估
*(A) 用于提取细胞特征（PolarityJam）的代表性免疫荧光图像。对hiPSC-ECs进行了VE-钙粘蛋白（绿色）和高尔基复合体（GM130，粉色）的免疫染色荧光标记。细胞核与高尔基体之间的夹角被定义为高尔基体-细胞核方向，用于确定hiPSC-EC的极化程度。细胞形态的朝向则用于指示hiPSC-ECs是否平行于流动方向有序排列。*
*(B) Omi提供的连续单向流和剪切力使得细胞形态强烈地顺应流向排列。此外，单向流还成功诱导了高尔基体-细胞核方向的极化，这从指向与流向完全相反的极性指数以及负V分数中可以得到有力证实。这些显著效应在静态和双向流条件下均未出现。N（分析的细胞数量）因具体条件而异。n（技术重复次数）= 4。*
尤为重要的是，单向流引起了高尔基体-细胞核的显著极化，这从极坐标图和极性指数（0.174，图4B底部图表）中一目了然。高尔基体-细胞核极化的平均方向与流体的流动方向（红色箭头）截然相反，充分表明正是流体剪切力诱导了这种极化现象。
极性指数通过红色箭头的长度进行直观可视化，它是衡量细胞极化程度的关键指标，数值越大代表极化越强。静态和双向流条件均未能表现出此效应，其极性指数仅为极低的0.06和0.0243。此外，单向流样本中较高的负V分数（-0.174，一种衡量与流向一致性的统计算法指标）进一步支撑了这一结果，明确表明极化方向与流向相反。
综上所述，这些确凿的数据表明，由Omi提供的单向流能够成功诱导出具有高度生理相关性的内皮细胞（EC）表型，即使在最高剪切应力相对较低（0.912 dyn/cm²）的情况下依然如此。因此可以合理推测，当应用更高的剪切应力时，能够诱导hiPSC-ECs产生更强的高尔基体-细胞核极化。本文所展示的稳定单向流对于准确进行体外血管建模具有不可替代的作用，并能切实帮助hiPSC-ECs获得成熟且相关的生理表型。
## 结论与未来展望
**实验结果总结**
本项研究充分证实，Omi™平台成功地在操作的简便性与生物系统的复杂性之间架起了一座桥梁。
事实上，Omi™平台可以轻松设置，在高度还原真实生理条件的血管芯片模型中执行长期、低体积的循环灌注。
通过将极致简便的操作与具有高度生物相关性的流动条件完美结合，Omi™平台支持带有自动循环功能的稳定单向灌注。这种配置使研究人员能够：
这种配置使研究人员能够：
- 逼真重现血栓形成或动脉粥样硬化等病理性血管状况。
- 在特定的血管模型中深入研究免疫细胞的外渗机制。
- 在受控流动条件下对炎症反应进行高度可靠的研究。
在为期五天的实验周期内，Omi™始终维持着稳定、自动化的单向流，这也是实现成熟内皮细胞表型的决定性因素。
虽然静态和双向（摇床）条件均未能诱导细胞的有序排列，但Omi™驱动的流体环境成功触发了以下结果：
- **培养基的高效利用：**连续循环机制让我们能够以极低的培养基消耗量实现上述卓越成果。
- **精确的形态学排列：**促使hiPSC-ECs完美平行于流动矢量方向排列。
- **功能性极化：**产生了显著的高尔基体-细胞核取向，标志着细胞已达到生理成熟状态。
## 器官芯片（OoC）生态系统中的多功能性
此外，Omi™平台专为实现通用集成而设计。其灵活的连接接口允许研究人员将其与任何微流控芯片轻松配对，只需极少的准备工作，即可将标准的器官芯片（OoC）装置瞬间转化为高保真的灌注型血管模型。
## 不断拓展的研究视野
通过提供稳定、长期的灌注环境，Omi™为复杂的血管研究开启了全新的大门，应用领域包括：
- **病理建模：**精准模拟动脉粥样硬化或血栓形成时的血流动力学变化。
- **免疫学研究：**在特定的血管芯片屏障内，深入探究免疫细胞的外渗和募集过程。
- **药物发现：**在逼真的流动条件下进行高保真的炎症反应分析测试。
- **个性化医疗：**利用患者特异性的hiPSCs，前瞻性地预测血管类药物的毒性或实际疗效。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-importance-of-flow-in-organ-on-a-chip/)
## 进一步阅读以深入了解Omi的工作原理：
- [利用HUVECs细胞控制剪切应力](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/ "利用HUVECs细胞控制剪切应力")
- [肠道芯片建模应用](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/ "肠道芯片建模应用")
- [Omi是如何实现长期循环灌注的？](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/ "Omi是如何实现长期循环灌注的？")
## **🚀**您准备好将血管研究提升到新高度了吗？
实验数据已经非常明确：单向流是提高生理相关性的绝对关键。请不要再向静态培养或不够理想的摇床平台妥协了。
### 即刻体验Omi™的独特优势
- **申请产品演示：**亲眼见证Omi™平台如何与您现有的微流控芯片实现无缝整合。
- **咨询专业技术专家：**与我们的应用科学家一对一交流，探讨如何构建完美的动脉粥样硬化、血栓形成或免疫细胞外渗模型。
[**咨询专业技术专家**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
## 相关解决方案与专业技术
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 在器官芯片研究中的为流体压力控制
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
致谢
莱顿器官芯片中心（Leiden OoC Center）及 Orlova 博士的研究工作，由以下机构与项目资助支持：
**LymphChip 项目**，项目编号：NWA-ORC 2019 1292.19.019，隶属于荷兰科学研究组织（NWO）资助的 NWA 研究计划”联盟研究路径计划”（Research on Routes by Consortia, ORC）。
**诺和诺德基金会干细胞医学中心**（Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine），资助项目编号：NNF21CC0073729；
References
1. Ingber DE. Human organs-on-chips for disease modelling, drug development and personalized medicine. Nat Rev Genet. 2022 Aug;23(8):467–91.
2\. Shakeri A, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Landau S, Perera K, Lee J, et al. Engineering Organ-on-a-Chip Systems for Vascular Diseases. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2023 Dec;43(12):2241–55.
3\. Jang S, Collin de l’Hortet A, Soto-Gutierrez A. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Endothelial Cells: Overview, Current Advances, Applications, and Future Directions. Am J Pathol. 2019 Mar;189(3):502–12.
4\. Orlova VV, van den Hil FE, Petrus-Reurer S, Drabsch Y, Ten Dijke P, Mummery CL. Generation, expansion and functional analysis of endothelial cells and pericytes derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Nat Protoc. 2014;9(6):1514–31.
5\. Tkachenko E, Gutierrez E, Saikin SK, Fogelstrand P, Kim C, Groisman A, et al. The nucleus of endothelial cell as a sensor of blood flow direction. Biol Open. 2013 Aug 14;2(10):1007–12.
6\. Dorland YL, Huveneers S. Cell-cell junctional mechanotransduction in endothelial remodeling. Cell Mol Life Sci CMLS. 2017 Jan;74(2):279–92.
7\. Giese W, Albrecht JP, Oppenheim O, Akmeriç EB, Kraxner J, Schmidt D, et al. Polarity-JaM: an image analysis toolbox for cell polarity, junction and morphology quantification. Nat Commun. 2025 Feb 8;16(1):1474.
---
### [微流控应用说明](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/application-notes/)
**Published:** February 26, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
Fluigent 提供广泛的纳流控与微流控应用解决方案，能够实现更卓越的控制、自动化、精度和易用性。无论您的应用涉及液滴生成、细胞生物学、颗粒研究还是其他研究领域，我们都拥有专业的技术专长和行业知识，能够为您的流体控制需求提供最具成本效益且技术领先的解决方案。
我们一流的流量控制技术可广泛应用于众多生物医学研究领域，因其能够提供高可控性与高精度的稳定流体输出，这一优势已在各类研究论文、应用指南及学术会议中得到充分验证。
本页面汇集了微流控应用指南，可协助您优化实验设置与研究流程。您是否曾使用 Fluigent 产品发表过学术论文？请通过 contact@fluigent.com 与我们联系，我们将在官网上收录并引用您的研究成果！
- [
### hiPSC衍生血管器官芯片：通过单向流实现生理性细胞排列
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/application-notes/hipscs-derived-vascular-organ-on-chip/)
- [
### 使用 Omi™ 双模块平台的肝-肾器官芯片模型
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/application-notes/tacrolimus-metabolism-liver-kidney/)
---
### [使用牺牲油壳法在海藻酸盐微珠中进行微流控细胞球包裹 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/case-studies/spheroid-encapsulation/)
**Published:** April 15, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 波尔多大学、布鲁塞尔自由大学与Secoya Technologies合作论文
本研究由波尔多大学（[Université de Bordeaux](https://physique.u-bordeaux.fr/recherche-1/lp2n)）、法国国家科学研究中心（[CNRS](https://www.crpp.cnrs.fr/)）、布鲁塞尔自由大学（[Université Libre de Bruxelles](https://tips-ulb.be/)）与[Secoya Technologies](https://www.secoya-tech.com/)（一家致力于开发生物制药工艺实验室规模设备的衍生公司）合作完成。他们的RayDrop®微流控液滴发生器将Secoya的乳化技术集成到了一个易于使用的平台中，使得学术机构和研发实验室能够实现可重复的细胞球包裹和液滴生成。
## 哪些挑战限制了长期的3D细胞培养？
细胞球包裹是建立高重复性3D细胞培养模型的一项关键技术，这些模型包括用于再生医学的类器官，以及用于肿瘤学的多细胞球体（MCS）。与传统的2D培养相比，这些模型能更好地还原组织生理学特征，但其生产过程通常依赖于劳动密集型的实验方案，限制了其在高通量应用中的规模化。液滴微流控技术能够将细胞精确地包裹在水凝胶液滴中，在保持微环境可控的同时，支持细胞自组装形成细胞球。1–4
水凝胶支架（如海藻酸盐）可为长期的多细胞球体（MCS）培养提供重要的机械支撑和生化信号。然而，制备海藻酸盐微珠的传统方法通常会导致尺寸不均一，并且可能会损害细胞存活率（图1）。在微流控系统中使用复乳（双重乳液）的高阶策略虽然提高了微珠的均匀性，但如何在不影响细胞的前提下控制温和凝胶化仍然是一项挑战。5
尺寸和结构均一的单分散水凝胶微珠对于高质量的细胞球包裹至关重要，它们能确保营养物质的一致扩散以及最佳的细胞生长。将受控的微流控技术与具有生物相容性的水凝胶相结合，能够有效解决传统MCS生产方法的主要局限性（表1）。6,7
图1：当前制备3D细胞球策略的图解(Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology **2024**, 100, 106033).
*表1：当前在海藻酸盐微珠中进行细胞包裹的策略比较( **Lab Chip**, 2026,**26**, 711-724).*
参考文献 乳液类型 凝胶化机制 微珠直径 \[μm\] **细胞存活率** **MCS形成** 特别备注 Lian等 (文献8) 单乳 油酸中的CaCl₂ 40–55 不适用 不适用 未讨论细胞存活率。包裹的是细菌而非哺乳动物细胞。涉及除油步骤。 Lian等 (文献8) 单乳 油酸中的CaCl₂ 100 >85% 是 存在堵塞问题。涉及除油步骤。 Trivedi等 (文献10) 单乳 液滴融合 1500 4小时后80%，9小时后60% 否 包裹后存活率随时间下降。微珠直径过大。涉及除油步骤。 Akbari与Pirbodaghi (文献11) 单乳 解螯合CaCO₃（酸化） 26 85% 是 细胞存活率随时间变化（2天后74%，6天后84%）。涉及氟化油去除步骤。 Liao等 (文献12) 复乳 Ca²⁺通过油壳扩散 190–260 78.1% 否 形状控制差。交联机制存疑。仅在包裹2小时后测量了存活率。微珠直接在水相介质中回收。 Kieda等 (文献13) 复乳 连续相中的CaCl₂ 209 包裹后48%；2天后95% 是 全水相微流控。壳相充当物理屏障防止设备堵塞。多分散性较大（变异系数13%），微珠球形度极佳，单分散。 ## 研究目的：用于细胞球包裹的牺牲油壳法
本研究旨在开发一种稳定、具有生物相容性，且适用于3D细胞培养系统中哺乳动物细胞的细胞球包裹方法。该研究优化了一种基于牺牲油壳的液滴微流控策略，通过控制钙离子跨越薄油壳的扩散，实现温和且均匀的水凝胶交联，从而生成均质的海藻酸盐微珠（图2）。这种方法能够实现高效的微流控包裹，同时保持细胞存活率并支持多细胞球体的形成。值得注意的是，该研究首次展示了使用非嵌入式毛细管几何结构来生产单分散且结构均质的海藻酸盐微珠，并证实其可兼容长期的细胞球培养。
图2适用于多细胞球体培养的海藻酸盐微珠的牺牲油壳生成法**Lab Chip** 2026**26** 711 724
## 材料与方法：如何搭建用于细胞球包裹的微流控平台
实验使用哺乳动物HEK293T细胞进行3D细胞培养。细胞被重悬于无菌的海藻酸盐溶液中，以便后续将其包裹在水凝胶微珠内。
包裹过程使用[RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/ "RayDrop")（由Secoya Technologies开发和制造）完成，这是一款基于毛细管、具有非嵌入式共焦聚焦几何结构的液滴微流控设备。该系统设有三个入口——分别用于引入核心相（细胞-海藻酸盐溶液）、壳相（油酸）和连续相（含表面活性剂的水溶液），以及一个用于收集微珠的出口（图3）。
使用[Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "Flow EZ")压力控制器实现了对所有流体相的精确流量控制，保证了稳定的压力驱动注射和可重复的液滴形成。所有流体相均安装了在线过滤器，以去除颗粒物并防止设备堵塞。含细胞的核心相使用了带定量环的进样器进行进样，以防止细胞沉淀并确保均匀加载（图4）。
使用光学相机实时监测液滴的生成情况。微流控设备被配置为维持流体通过喷嘴进入提取毛细管时的同轴流动状态，从而确保复乳（双重乳液）液滴的正常形成。所有与细胞接触的管路和组件在使用前均经过了灭菌处理。
图3使用RayDrop生产海藻酸盐微珠的五步法流程示意图从复乳生成Ca²⁺介导的凝胶化油壳脱落到微珠回收 **Lab Chip** 2026**26** 711 724
图4带有进样环的RayDrop包裹平台
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
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### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
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## 概念验证：用于形成细胞球的哺乳动物细胞无螯合包裹
### A- 海藻酸盐微珠中的细胞包裹
在液滴微流控技术生成的海藻酸盐微珠中，研究人员采用了无螯合物的CaCl₂（氯化钙）方法来包裹哺乳动物HEK293T细胞。该过程依赖于钙离子穿过包裹着海藻酸盐核心的牺牲油酸壳进行扩散（图5）。
利用RayDrop平台，通过同轴流动生成了复乳（**双重乳液**）：海藻酸盐-细胞溶液形成核心相，油酸形成壳相，含表面活性剂的水相作为连续相。在受控的流速下（核心：25 μL/min；壳相：15 μL/min；连续相：300 μL/min），生成了直径在200至400 μm之间的单分散液滴。
钙离子从收集浴中穿过油酸壳扩散进去，诱导海藻酸盐发生缓慢且均匀的凝胶化。凝胶化完成后，油壳会自发脱落，通过温和离心即可回收微珠，从而获得结构均匀、呈球形且可直接用于培养的微珠。
图5细胞存活率与细胞球形成HEK293T细胞在单分散海藻酸盐微珠中保持存活并形成细胞球比例尺100 μm **Lab Chip** 2026**26** 711 724
### B- 细胞球的形成与生长
被包裹的HEK293T细胞在具有弹性的海藻酸盐微珠内聚集并形成多细胞球体。细胞球的生长呈现指数趋势，这与预期的细胞分裂时间（约12-20小时）相符。较小的细胞球在很大程度上保持球形，而较大的细胞球由于受到水凝胶的机械约束，在圆度上会出现轻微的形变（图6）。
高弹性的海藻酸盐网络促进了在细胞球边界处形成超细胞F-肌动蛋白（F-actin）外壳，并限制了相邻细胞球之间的融合。这种方法确保了高细胞存活率、可重复的细胞球形成以及可控的生长动态，非常适合长期的3D培养研究。
*图6HEK293T细胞球的生长动态共聚焦赤道面视图展示了具有F 肌动蛋白外壳的多细胞球体左图肌动蛋白灰度右图DNA青色与肌动蛋白品红色比例尺20 μm* ***Lab Chip*** *2026****26*** *711 724*
## 结论
本案例研究提出了一种实用且可重复的方法，通过结合RayDrop平台与Flow EZ压力控制器（用于精确流量调节），将哺乳动物细胞包裹在单分散、均质的海藻酸盐微珠中。Ca²⁺穿过油酸壳的缓慢扩散实现了均匀凝胶化，而油层的自发脱落让微珠的回收变得非常简单。该方法保持了很高的细胞存活率，支持长期的细胞球形成，并且可以在不需要事先掌握微流控专业知识的情况下，轻松地在标准生物实验室中实施，为研究组织形态发生学和3D细胞培养动态学提供了一项强大的工具。
[阅读完整论文](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2026/lc/d5lc00913h/unauth "阅读完整论文"): Rembotte, L.; Cappello, J.; Dewandre, A.; Mettler, M.; Septavaux, J.; Nassoy, P.; Scheid, B. Sacrificial Oil Shell Method for the Generation of Alginate Microbeads Adapted to Multicellular Spheroid Culture. *Lab on a Chip* **2026**.
## 想改进您的液滴生产系统吗？探索我们的解决方案。
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### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
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### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
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您也可以联系我们以探讨您的需求。
[联系我们探讨您的应用需求](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
## 相关专业领域
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### 10 条实现可靠液滴生成的技巧
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### 微流控微滴生成方法
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### 微流控在药物递送中的应用：精准医学新时代
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-drug-delivery/)
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### 微流控流体控制技术：为可靠结果选择合适的泵
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
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### 用于液滴生成的微流控技术
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## References
(1) Rembotte, L.; Cappello, J.; Dewandre, A.; Mettler, M.; Septavaux, J.; Nassoy, P.; Scheid, B. Sacrificial Oil Shell Method for the Generation of Alginate Microbeads Adapted to Multicellular Spheroid Culture. *Lab on a Chip* **2026**.
(2) Lampart, F. L.; Iber, D.; Doumpas, N. Organoids in High-Throughput and High-Content Screenings. *Front. Chem. Eng.* **2023**, *5*. https://doi.org/10.3389/fceng.2023.1120348.
(3) Jensen, C.; Teng, Y. Is It Time to Start Transitioning From 2D to 3D Cell Culture? *Front. Mol. Biosci.* **2020**, *7*. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmolb.2020.00033.
(4) Fevre, R.; Mary, G.; Vertti-Quintero, N.; Durand, A.; Tomasi, R. F.-X.; Del Nery, E.; Baroud, C. N. Combinatorial Drug Screening on 3D Ewing Sarcoma Spheroids Using Droplet-Based Microfluidics. *Iscience* **2023**, *26* (5).
(5) Chae, S.; Hong, J.; Hwangbo, H.; Kim, G. The Utility of Biomedical Scaffolds Laden with Spheroids in Various Tissue Engineering Applications. *Theranostics* **2021**, *11* (14), 6818.
(6) Gadziński, P.; Froelich, A.; Jadach, B.; Wojtyłko, M.; Tatarek, A.; Białek, A.; Krysztofiak, J.; Gackowski, M.; Otto, F.; Osmałek, T. Ionotropic Gelation and Chemical Crosslinking as Methods for Fabrication of Modified-Release Gellan Gum-Based Drug Delivery Systems. *Pharmaceutics* **2022**, *15* (1), 108. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15010108.
(7) Arora, S.; Singh, S.; Mittal, A.; Desai, N.; Khatri, D. K.; Gugulothu, D.; Lather, V.; Pandita, D.; Vora, L. K. Spheroids in Cancer Research: Recent Advances and Opportunities. *Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology* **2024**, *100*, 106033. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jddst.2024.106033.
(8) Lian, M.; Collier, C. P.; Doktycz, M. J.; Retterer, S. T. Monodisperse Alginate Microgel Formation in a Three-Dimensional Microfluidic Droplet Generator. *Biomicrofluidics* **2012**, *6* (4).
(9) Kim, C. Droplet-Based Microfluidics for Making Uniform-Sized Cellular Spheroids in Alginate Beads with the Regulation of Encapsulated Cell Number. *BioChip J* **2015**, *9* (2), 105–113. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13206-015-9203-6.
(10) Trivedi, V.; Ereifej, E. S.; Doshi, A.; Sehgal, P.; VandeVord, P. J.; Basu, A. S. Microfluidic Encapsulation of Cells in Alginate Capsules for High Throughput Screening. In *2009 Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society*; IEEE, 2009; pp 7037–7040.
(11) Akbari, S.; Pirbodaghi, T. Microfluidic Encapsulation of Cells in Alginate Particles via an Improved Internal Gelation Approach. *Microfluid Nanofluid* **2014**, *16* (4), 773–777. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10404-013-1264-z.
(12) Liao, Q.-Q.; Zhao, S.-K.; Cai, B.; He, R.-X.; Rao, L.; Wu, Y.; Guo, S.-S.; Liu, Q.-Y.; Liu, W.; Zhao, X.-Z. Biocompatible Fabrication of Cell-Laden Calcium Alginate Microbeads Using Microfluidic Double Flow-Focusing Device. *Sensors and Actuators A: Physical* **2018**, *279*, 313–320.
(13) Kieda, J.; Appak-Baskoy, S.; Jeyhani, M.; Navi, M.; Chan, K. W. Y.; Tsai, S. S. H. Microfluidically-Generated Encapsulated Spheroids (μ-GELS): An All-Aqueous Droplet Microfluidics Platform for Multicellular Spheroids Generation. *ACS Biomater. Sci. Eng.* **2023**, *9* (2), 1043–1052. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00963.
---
### [微流控客户案例研究](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/case-studies/)
**Published:** April 15, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
- [
### 使用牺牲油壳法在海藻酸盐微珠中进行微流控细胞球包裹
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---
### [细胞与组织的微吸技术 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/micropipette-aspiration/)
**Published:** April 15, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 我们如何测量细胞的力学特性?
### 什么是细胞的力学特性？
细胞核的力学特性在多种生物过程中日益被认为至关重要。细胞核的可变形性决定了免疫细胞和癌细胞穿越组织或内皮层的能力。核力学特性的变化也可作为癌症进展、干细胞分化等过程中的新型生物标志物 \[5\]。
### 当前常用的测量方法
然而，目前用于测量细胞核黏弹性力学特性的技术往往耗时较长，通常一次只能测量一个细胞，或需要高度专业化的设备。此外，许多现有的检测方法并不能测量材料随时间变化的特性，而这是黏弹性材料的关键属性之一 \[5, 6\]。
微吸技术依赖于通过微吸管对细胞施加精确且灵敏的负压，将细胞吸入管内进行分析。实验开始时，细胞首先精确地固定在微吸管管口，然后通过负压将其吸入管中。
### 为什么选择微吸技术？
为了量化细胞被吸入微吸管的深度，可借助显微镜追踪细胞的位置。该变形行为可以用集中参数模型来预测——模型中将细胞视为弹簧和阻尼器的组合，分别模拟其刚度和黏性特性 \[5\]。
在微吸实验中，细胞表现出两种变形行为：由刚度产生的线性弹性响应，以及由黏性引起的蠕变响应。不同类型的细胞具有不同的响应特性，例如白细胞的刚度低于软骨细胞。这种刚度差异会影响细胞之间的相互作用以及它们对周围环境的响应。微吸技术是一种多功能方法，可用于多种细胞类型的刚度定量分析。
定量分析细胞的力学特性对于研究和诊断多种疾病具有重要意义。由于单个细胞非常脆弱、尺寸极小，且操作所需的力非常微弱，传统材料测试方法并不适用于细胞层级的研究。
## 微吸技术的优势
- **无创**：微吸操作可对同一样本进行重复测量，可实时监测组织中单个细胞张力的变化。这是一种强有力的工具，可追踪形态发生过程中张力的时空变化图谱（Maitre 等，Nat Cell Biol，2015）。
- **经济易用**：Fluigent 提供的微吸系统结构紧凑，可适配任何显微镜，操作由直观的软件控制。相比之下，原子力显微镜（AFM）、细胞压头或光镊等竞争技术价格高昂，且需要专门培训和专用设备。
- **节省时间**：[得益于 Fluigent 产品的高响应性](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/ "得益于 Fluigent 产品的高响应性")，设定压力可在毫秒级别内瞬时施加于细胞表面。细胞表面张力测量只需 3 至 5 分钟即可完成（Maitre 等，Nat Cell Biol，2015）。
- **避免操作者差异：**手动微吸不仅需要高技能人员操作，而且施加压力不可量化，易引发操作者间误差。而 Fluigent 的压力控制器能以 0.1% 精度输出设定压力，确保实验重复性。
- **高灵敏度与高分辨率：**Fluigent 是市面上唯一可在 0.1–10 mbar 低压区间实现 0.007 mbar 微小压力步进的仪器，能够研究如细胞骨架结构与重构等亚细胞动态过程，是共聚焦显微镜难以覆盖的领域。
## 微吸技术的应用
微吸管吸引技术依然是研究细胞核力学的黄金标准之一，也是最常用的工具之一，能够在不同时间尺度上提供关于细胞核黏弹性行为的重要信息。
微吸技术已被广泛用于研究多种生物物理现象，例如细胞核的力学特性、核质与染色质的分离，以及染色质的拉伸行为 \[5\]。
***图片来源：***[***Jean-Léon Maitre（法国居里研究所）*** ](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/biology-cancer-genetics-and-epigenetics/developmental-biology-and-genetics/team-maitre/ "Jean-Léon Maitre（法国居里研究所） ")
**细胞力学特性测量：**许多生物过程都伴随着细胞刚度的变化，例如细胞进入有丝分裂阶段 \[1\]、肿瘤细胞向癌前期转变 \[2\]、红细胞感染疟原虫 \[3\]。这些变化发生在单细胞尺度，因此需要高精度的测量方法来准确量化细胞刚度。
双吸管微吸实验是细胞吸引装置的扩展版，可通过分离接触中的细胞，评估细胞-细胞界面上，细胞之间张力与细胞-培养基张力的相对贡献（Maitre 等，Science，2012）。
**单细胞操作：**微吸技术可以精确定位单个细胞或细胞团，单细胞定位对于**[单细胞分析](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/ "单细胞分析")**或克隆细胞系的建立至关重要。
**组织内部张力异质性：**在单细胞层面对细胞张力进行评估，可以绘制组织的张力空间分布图。这对于研究驱动组织形态发生或胚胎发育的力学机制尤其有效（**[Maitre 等，2016，Nature](https://www.nature.com/articles/nature18958#citeas "Maitre 等，2016，Nature")）**。
**体外诊断：**在细胞分辨率下测量刚度，是发现显微镜下无法观察或察觉的异常行为的有力工具。例如，尽管受精后数小时内，可存活与不可存活的胚胎在形态上无法区分，但其力学特性已能预测其发育活力 \[4\]。
## 微吸技术成套解决方案
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 液滴生产的先进解决方案](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 先进的组学技术解决方案 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics-technology/)
****微流控压力控制器** , Flow EZTM**
****微流控软件控制系统**** , **LINK**
****实时控制与实验自动化软件** , OxyGEN**
****数字高速显微镜****
****微吸实验整套解决方案****
**如需了解更多信息或进行技术探讨**
[**请联系我们**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
## 相关文献
\[1\] Théry M, Bornens M, Get round and stiff. 2008, HFSP J, 2(2):65-71.
\[2\] Tavares S et al, actin stress fiber organization promotes cell stiffening and proliferation of pre-invasive breast cancer cells. 2017, Nat Commun. 8:15237.
\[3\] Guo Q et al, Microfluidic biomechanical assay for red blood cells parasitized by Plasmodium falciparum. 2012, Lab Chip; 12(6):1143-50.
\[4\] Yanez LZ et al, human oocyte developmental potential is predicted by mechanical properties within hours after fertilization, 2016, Nat Commun. 7:10809
\[5\] Davidson, P.M. et al. (2019) “High-throughput microfluidic micropipette aspiration device to probe time-scale dependent nuclear mechanics in intact cells,” Lab on a Chip, 19(21), pp. 3652–3663. Available at: [**https://doi.org/10.1039/c9lc00444k**](https://doi.org/10.1039/c9lc00444k).
\[6\] González-Bermúdez, B., Guinea, G.V. and Plaza, G.R. (2019) “Advances in micropipette aspiration: Applications in cell biomechanics, models, and extended studies,” Biophysical Journal, 116(4), pp. 587–594. Available at: .
## 客户出版物精选
Guevorkian K,Maître JL.Micropipette aspiration: A unique tool for exploring cell and tissue mechanics in vivo.MethodsCellBiol. 2017;139:187-201
Maître JL et al, Asymmetric division of contractile domains couples cellpositioning and fate specification, Nature. 2016 Aug 18;536(7616):344-34
Biro M, Maître JL, Dual pipette aspiration: a unique tool for studying intercellular adhesion.MethodsCellBiol. 2015;125:255-67
Porazinski S et al, YAP is essential for tissue tension to ensure vertebrate 3D body shape.Nature. 2015 May 14;521(7551):217-221
Maître JL et al, Pulsatile cell-autonomouscontractility drives compaction in the mouse embryo. Nat Cel lBiol. 2015 Jul;17(7):849-55
Maître JL et al, Adhesion functions in cell sorting by mechanically coupling the cortices of adhering cells.Science. 2012;338(6104):253-6
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### [技术在高级类器官模型中的作用：从静态到动态 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
**Published:** April 22, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 什么是类器官模型？
**类器官**是由干细胞衍生而来的微小三维（3D）多细胞结构，它们能够自我组装成微型化、简化的器官雏形。**类器官建模**模拟了器官发育、结构和功能的关键特征。与传统的细胞培养相比，类器官再现了器官特异性的细胞异质性、空间排布和功能输出，使其成为研究疾病机制、宿主-病原体相互作用以及精准医疗的强大工具。
目前，类器官技术已成功应用于多种组织和器官，包括大脑、视网膜、肝脏、肺、肠道、肾脏、胰腺以及各类肿瘤。每种类器官都展现出特定的类组织特征。例如，肠道类器官可以形成隐窝-绒毛结构，视网膜类器官能发育出分层的光感受器阵列，而肾脏类器官则能生成类似肾单位的肾小管。在获取人类或动物组织受限或面临伦理困境的领域，这些模型为深入理解人体生物学提供了宝贵的视角。
尽管具有极高的生物学保真度，传统的静态类器官培养仍存在一定局限性。它们通常被包埋在细胞外基质（ECM）凝胶（如Matrigel基质胶）中或以悬浮状态生长。这会限制营养物质和氧气的扩散，导致体积较大的类器官内部形成坏死核心。这种扩散屏障限制了类器官的尺寸、存活时间以及细胞的成熟度。此外，静态系统无法重现动态的物理信号，例如对细胞成熟和分化至关重要的灌注流体剪切力。这些缺陷阻碍了血管化组织和复杂器官级功能的建模，从而降低了该系统在药物筛选或疾病建模中的临床转化价值。
## 基础原理：当微流控遇上类器官
微流控技术通过在层流条件下对微尺度流体进行精准操控，克服了上述障碍。该系统能够对细胞微环境进行高度控制，从而可重复地实现营养物质和氧气的连续灌注、机械力刺激的施加以及生化梯度的建立。因此，微流控平台有效提高了类器官的存活率，促进了组织的成熟，并支持了血管化的形成。
借助微小体积流体的操作优势，微流控技术能够实现实时监测、梯度生成以及药物和信号分子的精准递送。在微流控芯片中，研究人员可以达到单类器官级别的分辨率并进行高通量筛选，提供了出色的扩展性和实验控制力。
******目前在类器官研究中常用的微流控模式包括：******
闭式通道系统：通过可灌注的通道模拟血管网络。图1展示了如何对连接进出口的中间通道内的类器官进行灌注，同时在相邻通道中加载包埋在水凝胶中的内皮细胞和成纤维细胞，以促进肿瘤类器官的血管化。(1)
**图1：微流控设备与器官芯片。对肿瘤类器官培养物进行血管网络灌注，以模拟血管生成。**
- 开放式微流控：便于直接接触组织进行分析。如图2所示，一种3D打印的微流控设备被设计用于培养早期神经类器官，允许来自周围通道（接种了hPSC衍生的血管细胞）的血管长入类器官中。这种结构可以密封进行灌注培养，随后开启以方便进行流式细胞术和蛋白质组学等后续分析。(2)
***图2：(A) 芯片上类器官的体视显微镜图像。比例尺：2mm。(B) 芯片上血管生成的示意图***
- **液滴与微珠微流控**：将细胞包裹在均匀的液滴中，以实现类器官的快速生成。图3展示了利用微珠胶囊进行细胞分子分析和高通量操作。(3)
****图3：微珠操作及研究的方法学进展。****
## 从静态向动态过渡：技术实现路径
### 静态条件下培养类器官有哪些局限性？
静态类器官培养的尺寸受到扩散屏障的限制。扩散屏障是指氧气、营养物质和代谢产物能够有效扩散进入3D组织结构（如类器官）以支持细胞存活和功能的最大距离。超过这一临界距离，细胞就会经历缺氧或营养匮乏，从而导致坏死核心的形成。通常，直径大于300-500µm的类器官就会出现坏死核心，这在Matrigel基质胶圆顶滴定（Domes）和悬浮培养等静态系统中尤为突出。此外，缺乏血管网络和机械力刺激的类器官也无法实现生理成熟和功能复杂化。
****表1. 类器官与3D组织培养中的扩散极限****
分子 在3D组织中的近似扩散极限 生物学影响 参考文献 **氧气 (O₂)** ~100–200 μm 超过该极限将导致缺氧和细胞死亡 (4) **营养物质（如葡萄糖）** ~200–400 μm 能量短缺，细胞增殖受损 (5) **代谢废物清除** ~200–400 μm 有毒副产物的积累会损害细胞功能 (5)
### 1. 类器官模型的灌注与血管化
基于灌注的微流控平台打破了静态系统的局限，推动了类器官培养的发展。通过提供连续、受控的流体流动，这些平台可用于诱导血管化，在增强营养和氧气递送的同时，施加有助于组织成熟的剪切应力。
**[点击此处了解更多关于灌注技术及应用案例的信息。](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/ "点击此处了解更多关于灌注技术及应用案例的信息。")**
一个典型的案例是，肾脏类器官的灌注显著增强了其血管化程度和组织发育水平。在受控的高流体剪切应力（1-4.27 mL/min）下，肾脏类器官的血管面积（PECAM1转录本）增加了5倍，血管分支增加了10倍，内皮基因的表达水平也显著提升。这些结果远远超越了静态条件下的培养效果（图4）。在该模型中，类器官被固定在通道内，并在闭式通道中进行灌注(6)。
**图4：在静态、低流体剪切力和高流体剪切力条件下，整体类器官培养物中血管标志物的共聚焦3D图像。比例尺 = 100µm。**
另一种实现类器官血管化的方法是在芯片内嵌入可灌注的组件。在一个血管化的肾脏类器官芯片模型中，研究人员为内皮细胞和类器官分隔设计了独立的通道。这种构型允许内皮细胞与类器官自身的血管形成功能性连接，从而实现分子交换、细胞迁移和结构整合(7)。
更广泛的文献回顾证实，血管化是类器官突破数百微米尺寸限制并达到高级发育阶段的必要条件。没有血管网络的支持，扩散限制将导致中心坏死、细胞多样性受限以及组织结构不成熟(8)。同样，近期的研究也强调了“器官芯片上的类器官”（OOCoid）系统的发展。该系统结合了可灌注的血管网络和流体力学刺激，为肺、大脑、肾脏和肿瘤等多种模型的长期存活和生理功能提供了强有力的支持(9)。
**图5：(A) DAPI-MCAM-PECAM共染色的免疫荧光图像，展示了在Transwell小室和芯片上培养的肾脏类器官，比例尺 = 200 µm。(B) 基于总面积百分比的肾脏类器官中MCAM和PECAM表达的统计学分析。**
### 2. 用于成熟与分化的动态类器官培养
[剪切应力](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/ "剪切应力")、流体静压和循环张力等机械信号已被公认为类器官发育和功能的调节因子。细胞通过机械传导通路感知并响应这些机械力，进而影响基因表达和组织构建(10)。机械传导中一个已被充分研究的方面是细胞与周围细胞外基质（ECM）物理特性的相互作用，包括基质硬度和粘附配体的存在——这两者都对干细胞的命运和谱系分化具有直接影响。
然而，由于生物源性ECM（如Matrigel基质胶）存在批次间差异，其蛋白质组成和机械硬度都会受到影响，这使得这些特性的标准化仍然面临挑战。这种变异性增加了类器官研究在可重复性和规模化方面的难度(11)。
除了基质本身，培养环境施加的机械应力（尤其是灌注的模式和参数）也是决定类器官成熟的关键因素。与轨道式摇床培养相比，在连续、受控的层流下培养的中脑类器官，表现出向多巴胺能神经元分化的能力增强，并且坏死核心的形成显著减少(12)。这表明，动态的机械环境对于构建具有高度生理相关性的类器官模型是必不可少的。
**图6：Hoechst细胞核染色（白色），展示了来源于三种不同野生型神经上皮干细胞（WT NESC）系的代表性人类中脑类器官（hMO）切片，在摇床或流体条件下培养的结果。黄色虚线标示了“死核区”（比例尺 = 200 μm）。**
### 3. 用于高通量均质培养的类器官包裹技术
采用基于压力控制系统的液滴微流控技术，能够将细胞包裹进均一的纳升级液滴中。该系统可用于大规模生产类器官单元，这对于对比研究和药物筛选至关重要。例如，基于微珠的液滴平台允许将细胞外基质成分直接包裹在液滴内，从而有效提升3D培养的保真度并加强细胞-基质间的相互作用(13)。
**图7：(a) 人间充质干细胞（hMSC）细胞球包裹在复乳液滴中6小时后的相差图像。(b) 6小时后使用1H,1H,2H,2H-全氟-1-辛醇从乳液中释放出来的细胞球的活/死染色图像。活细胞用Calcein AM标记（绿色），死细胞用PI标记（红色）。(13)**
## 总结与未来展望
将受控的流体技术引入类器官研究，标志着克服静态3D培养长期局限性的一项关键进展。传统的类器官系统受制于扩散屏障，这不仅导致生化微环境难以控制，还缺乏必要的生物力学信号。两者均阻碍了组织的成熟以及模型规模化的进程。
当闭式通道微流控平台、基于液滴的包裹系统以及微珠工作流程与精准的流量控制相结合时，研究人员便能够实现对环境的严密控制以及对机械力的精细调节。这些特性对于模拟复杂的器官发育、诱导血管化以及引导特定区域的细胞命运走向具有决定性意义。如今已有充分证据表明，剪切应力和流体压力等机械刺激能够显著影响类器官的结构、存活率和功能分化，这在大脑、肾脏和血管模型中尤为明显。
展望未来，该领域的发展方向将聚焦于在微流控系统中整合更多维度的动态参数（如时空信号梯度），以进一步在体外高逼真度地模拟体内器官的发生过程。
器官芯片系统与实时生物传感器以及用于多器官互连的模块化平台（即人体芯片，Body-on-chip）的深度结合，有望全面提升类器官在疾病建模、新药发现和精准医疗领域的转化潜力。与此同时，在临床和工业应用中，持续致力于ECM材料的标准化和液滴微流控的自动化，将是确保技术可重复性和可扩展性的核心关键。
如需了解更多信息或进行技术交流.
[请联系我们](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
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## References
1\. Gunti S, Hoke ATK, Vu KP, London NR. Organoid and Spheroid Tumor Models: Techniques and Applications. Cancers. 2021 Jan;13(4):874.
2\. Salmon I, Grebenyuk S, Fattah ARA, Rustandi G, Pilkington T, Verfaillie C, et al. Engineering neurovascular organoids with 3D printed microfluidic chips. Lab Chip. 2022;22(8):1615–29.
3\. Laperrousaz B, Porte S, Gerbaud S, Härmä V, Kermarrec F, Hourtane V, et al. Direct transfection of clonal organoids in Matrigel microbeads: a promising approach toward organoid-based genetic screens. Nucleic Acids Res. 2018 July 6;46(12):e70.
4\. Ziółkowska-Suchanek I. Mimicking Tumor Hypoxia in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Employing Three-Dimensional In Vitro Models. Cells. 2021 Jan;10(1):141.
5\. Kim D, Kim W, Sharma H, Lee S, Park C, Park S, et al. Ultra-Tiny Gelatin Nanoparticles-Assisted 3D Stem Cell Spheroids for Engineering Tissue Regeneration. Adv Healthc Mater. n/a(n/a):2501882.
6\. Homan KA, Gupta N, Kroll KT, Kolesky DB, Skylar-Scott M, Miyoshi T, et al. Flow-enhanced vascularization and maturation of kidney organoids in vitro. Nat Methods. 2019 Mar;16(3):255–62.
7\. Bas-Cristóbal Menéndez A, Du Z, van den Bosch TPP, Othman A, Gaio N, Silvestri C, et al. Creating a kidney organoid-vasculature interaction model using a novel organ-on-chip system. Sci Rep. 2022 Nov 30;12(1):20699.
8\. Zhang S, Wan Z, Kamm RD. Vascularized organoids on a chip: strategies for engineering organoids with functional vasculature. Lab Chip. 2021 Feb 9;21(3):473–88.
9\. Wang X, Bijonowski BM, Kurniawan NA. Vascularizing Organoids to Promote Long-Term Organogenesis on a Chip. Organoids. 2023 Dec;2(4):239–55.
10\. Morena F, Armentano I, Montanucci P, Argentati C, Fortunati E, Montesano S, et al. Design of a nanocomposite substrate inducing adult stem cell assembly and progression toward an Epiblast-like or Primitive Endoderm-like phenotype via mechanotransduction. Biomaterials. 2017 Nov 1;144:211–29.
11\. Taghizadeh M, Taghizadeh A, Kim HS. Mechanobiological engineering strategies for organoid culture. APL Bioeng. 2025 July 18;9(3):031501.
12\. Berger E, Magliaro C, Paczia N, Monzel AS, Antony P, Linster CL, et al. Millifluidic culture improves human midbrain organoid vitality and differentiation. Lab Chip. 2018 Oct 9;18(20):3172–83.
13\. (PDF) One drop at a time: Toward droplet microfluidics as a versatile tool for single-cell analysis. ResearchGate \[Internet\]. \[cited 2025 Aug 8\]; Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/278401605\_One\_drop\_at\_a\_time\_Toward\_droplet\_microfluidics\_as\_a\_versatile\_tool\_for\_single-cell\_analysis
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### [微流控芯片：工作原理及选型指南 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
**Published:** July 8, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
目录：
1. [微流控芯片的微制造 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#microfabrication "微流控芯片的微制造 ")
- [硅或玻璃 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#silicon-glass "硅或玻璃 ")
- [聚合物 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#polymers "聚合物 ")
- [纸基 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#paper "纸基 ")
- [水凝胶 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#hydrogel "水凝胶 ")
2. [应用选型指南 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#chip-selection "应用选型指南 ")
## 微流控芯片的微制造
在实验室芯片技术中，这些芯片由硅、玻璃或聚合物（如PDMS（聚二甲基硅氧烷））等材料制成。其生产方法根据所选材料而异。
以下内容大部分摘自Aryasomayajula等人撰写的《Springer纳米技术手册》（《微流控器件及其应用》）和Ren等人发表的论文《微流控芯片制造材料》\[1\]。
### 1. 硅或玻璃微流控芯片
- 第一代微流控材料，随着MEMS技术的引入而出现。
- **玻璃**：透明、惰性，具有高热稳定性和化学耐受性。
- **硅**：不透明但精确，可通过光刻实现亚微米级结构。
- 两者均可实现高分辨率通道，通道尺寸可达亚微米级且具有高重现性，适用于毛细管电泳（CE）、液滴形成及芯片内反应。
🛠️ 制造方法
- **硅材料：**通过蚀刻和沉积技术实现的体刻蚀、表面刻蚀和埋置通道。
- **玻璃材料**: 主要通过湿法/干法蚀刻和机械工艺制造。
**⚠️** 限制
- 成本高，需要专业设备和有毒化学品。
- 不透气，易脆，且不适合细胞培养。
**✅** 小结
硅和玻璃是高刚性材料，具有高精度和高温稳定性，但成本高且与生物或可扩展应用兼容性差——因此聚合物等替代材料应运而生。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
### 2. 聚合物微流控芯片
- 聚合物在硅/玻璃之后出现，提供了低成本、灵活且易获取的替代方案。
- 可根据聚合物类型用于原型制作或批量生产。
🛠️ 聚合物类型及应用
***🧼 弹性体（如PDMS）***
- 柔性，适用于软光刻快速原型制作。
- 在学术研究中常用。
- 限制：疏水性、重现性差、耐压性低，难以批量生产。
***🔍 热塑性塑料（如PMMA、COC、PC）***
- 透明、生物兼容且成本低。
- 通过热模成型或注塑成型实现大规模生产的理想选择。
- 化学耐受性优于PDMS，但透气性有限，不太适合长时程细胞培养。
***🔥 热固性塑料（如TPE）***
- 在高温/溶剂环境下依然坚固稳定。
- 通过注塑成型制造，提供高精度。
- 由于成本较高，使用较少。
图1：（A）通过将含有微通道设计的高分辨率透明光罩曝光于光敏树脂上，制作出模具母版。（B）将液态PDMS倒在母版上，并在70°C固化1小时。（C）从母版上剥离PDMS复制件；（D）将复制件密封到平面上以封闭通道。整个过程约需24小时\[2\]。
**✅** 小结
聚合物（尤其是用于原型制作的PDMS和用于工业化的热塑性塑料）现已成为微流控的首选材料，因其成本低、易加工且适用于多种应用。
### 3. 纸基微流控芯片
- 纸张多孔、由纤维素构成，可通过毛细作用自然吸液。
- 通道通过疏水图案化形成，将液体引导至亲水区域。
- **无需外部泵浦——液体被动流动。**
🛠️ 制造方法
✅ 成本低且简单，非常适合便携式诊断工具。
**常用技术：**
- **蜡印刷（最普及）**
- **喷墨印刷**
- **柔版印刷**
- **丝网印刷**
- **光刻**
- **纸张切割**
在蜡印刷中，先生成图案，再加热熔化蜡以形成疏水屏障，从而引导液体流动。
**⚠️** 限制
- 最小通道宽度约200 µm（而PDMS/玻璃可达约20 µm）。
- 对低表面张力液体的液体封闭性差。
- 与外部加压系统或泵不兼容。
- 至今已展示的高级微流控应用较少。
✅ 为什么使用纸基？
- 超低成本、一次性且易于制造。
- 非常适合现场快速检测和个性化诊断。
- 无需外部电源或设备。
### 4. 水凝胶微流控芯片
- 水凝胶是亲水、多孔、生物兼容的三维聚合物网络（天然或合成），可吸收超过90%的水分。
- 非常适合包埋细胞，创建类组织的生物环境和受控的三维微环境。
- 常见类型：琼脂糖、Matrigel、PEG-DA、海藻酸盐、壳聚糖。
为什么在微流控中使用水凝胶？
✅ 生物兼容——支持细胞存活和组织功能。
✅ 可渗透——促进营养物质、药物和信号分子的扩散。
✅ 透明——便于显微镜观察和成像。
✅ 模拟体内环境——有助于实现真实的三维细胞培养和化学梯度。
*图2：（A）培养皿中放置了3个微设备，其中包含一个中央培养室（详见C）及6条通道。（B）一个微设备中填充（微黄色）胶原蛋白水凝胶，从右侧中通道流入中央培养室，同时两侧微通道灌注蓝色水液。（C）培养基通过侧通道灌注。（D）在微设备中使用荧光染料进行细胞监测\[3\]。*
🛠️ 制造方法
在微流控系统中集成水凝胶的方法多种多样，包括基于柔性光刻的牺牲性或可重复使用模板法、光聚合、局部集成等\[4\]。
1. **柔性光刻**
- 使用模具（PDMS或光刻胶）。
- 倒入液态凝胶，固化后剥离。
- 可制作二维及层状准三维水凝胶微结构。
2. **光聚合**
- 利用紫外光实现高分辨率结构化。
- 三种方法：均匀曝光、基于光罩的印刷、直接写入。
- 实现精确的三维微结构。
3. **局部集成/共层流**
- 凝胶在微通道中并列流动，形成层状结构。
- 随后进行原位固化。
- 有助于构建动态多层结构。
4. **牺牲模板**
- 将可降解的三维模板涂覆凝胶后溶解，形成通道。
- 可构建复杂的类血管结构（如组织支架）。
**⚠️** 挑战
- 在真正三维环境中精确控制几何形状十分复杂。
- 需要优化凝胶配方以兼顾固化性和生物兼容性。
- 某些凝胶可能机械强度低且批次差异较大（如Matrigel）。
## 芯片选型指南
- 确定您的用途：液滴混合、细胞测定、DNA分析等。
- 根据流动需求匹配通道设计：直通道、Y形、十字或H形网络。
### 1. 根据应用选择芯片材料
- 硅：化学稳定且导热性好，但不透明且易脆。
- 玻璃：透明、惰性、生物兼容，耐高压；适用于光学测定，但加工成本高。
- 聚合物（PDMS、PMMA、COC、PS、PC）：
- PDMS：在研究中备受青睐——生物兼容、透气、柔韧、易于原型制作，但疏水且不适合高压环境。
- 热塑性塑料：自发荧光低、光学性能优异，可通过注塑成型实现规模生产。
### 2. 精准设计流路
- 根据流动需求选择通道类型（直通道、Y/十字/H形网络）。
- 根据芯片和管路几何形状进行阻力及剪切计算；使用工具可计算理想压力和流量范围。
### 3. 设置合适的压力/流量
- 在中等压力范围内工作（例如，对于2 bar系统，使用0.5–1.5 bar），以获得最佳分辨率。
- 调整管路长度和直径以微调阻力，同时避免堵塞。
### 4. 减少堵塞并控制剪切
- 狭窄通道会增加堵塞风险和阻力——建议选择适中尺寸。
- 通过压力调节控制剪切应力，尤其适用于脆弱细胞。
### 5. 确保系统兼容性
- 确认芯片、管路、泵/控制器、涂层和检测器之间的兼容性。
- 使用Fluigent或其他系统时，优先选择即插即用的集成方案。
摘要表
**步骤** **关键要点** **定义应用** 确定测定类型（如细胞、DNA、液滴、器官芯片） **选择材料及制造** 平衡光学清晰度、耐压能力和成本**设计微通道及管路** 选择几何形状；根据目标流量/阻力确定尺寸 **计算并优化流量/压力** 使用计算工具；保持系统中等工况 **检查集成就绪度** 确保物理及功能兼容 ## 有用工具及资源
- 计算器：压力与流量、剪切应力、液滴尺寸
- 材料指南：PDMS、玻璃、聚合物、硅的优缺点
- 涂层及表面处理：调整疏/亲水平衡，减少非特异性吸附
## 最终要点
要选择理想的微流控芯片，请从一开始就明确需求——应用→材料→设计→流体控制→系统兼容性。使用计算工具和既定指南，打造高效、精确、可靠且无不必要成本与复杂度的芯片。
1. Ren, K., Zhou, J. & Wu, H. Materials for microfluidic chip fabrication. *Acc. Chem. Res.* **46**, 2396–2406 (2013).
2. McDonald, J. C. & Whitesides, G. M. Poly(dimethylsiloxane) as a material for fabricating microfluidic devices. *Acc. Chem. Res.* **35**, 491–499 (2002).
3. Ayuso, J. M. *et al.* Development and characterization of a microfluidic model of the tumour microenvironment. *Sci. Rep.* **6**, 1–16 (2016).
4. Zhang, X., Li, L. & Luo, C. Gel integration for microfluidic applications. *Lab Chip* **16**, 1757–1776 (2016).
## 相关内容
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
---
### [微流控自动化：实时监测与反馈回路 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/automation-in-microfluidics/)
**Published:** January 12, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 从人工操作的挑战到微流控自动化解决方案
传统微流控实验通常需要不断手动调节，才能维持压力或流量的稳定。人工校准不仅容易引入实验差异，还会降低实验效率，进而影响实验通量和结果的可重复性。
即使是微小的波动，也可能影响混合效率、剪切力或细胞活性，而这些参数在**器官芯片和长期细胞培养**等应用中至关重要。
**微流控自动化**通过将高精度硬件与智能软件控制相结合，有效解决了上述问题。压力控制器、阀门和流量传感器在实时反馈算法的配合下，对实验参数进行持续监测和自适应修正。一旦出现偏差，系统即可实时调整，无需任何人工干预即可维持设定的目标流量或压力。
**图 1. 用于微流控器件自动化运行的控制系统¹**
Fluigent 正引领**微流控系统向自动化**方向转型。其产品组合包括 LineUp 系列、[MFCS 系列和](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "MFCS 系列和") [Aria 系统](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics-technology/ "Aria 系统")，可实现**自动化与远程控制的流体操作**。这些平台使用户能够在极少人工监管的情况下执行复杂的微流控实验流程，从而显著提高实验的可重复性，并有效降低人为误差。
为进一步提升系统灵活性，Fluigent 提供了专用的**软件开发工具包**（SDK），用于高级自动化和系统集成。该 SDK 支持使用 **Python、LabVIEW、C++、C# 或 MATLAB** 编写自定义程序，对所有 Fluigent 仪器进行精确控制。SDK 内置大量实用示例，从读取传感器数据、设置压力（如 fgt\_get\_sensorValue、fgt\_set\_pressure）等基础操作，到涉及同步调节和阀门控制的高级流程，均有涵盖。这些示例使用户能够轻松构建定制化的自动化工作流程，并将 Fluigent 设备集成到更大型的实验室系统中。
## 实时监测与反馈回路：实现智能、自适应的微流控系统
微流控自动化的核心在于实时监测并动态调节实验条件的能力。通过集成压力与流量传感器，自动化系统能够即时检测参数偏差，并通过闭环反馈控制进行修正，从而确保实验条件始终稳定且高度可重复。
Fluigent 的 OxyGEN 软件在这一过程中发挥着核心作用。该软件可持续追踪连接仪器与传感器的压力和流量数据，并进行实时显示，同时自动调节系统参数。在自动化控制回路中，OxyGEN 能够对堵塞或流体阻力变化等情况作出即时响应，通过自动调节压力来维持目标流量。
[联系我们获取更多关于我们软件的信息。](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/ "联系我们获取更多关于我们软件的信息。")
该过程依赖于 Fluigent 的直接流量控制（Direct Flow Control，DFC）算法。DFC 将流量传感器与高响应算法相结合，持续对比实际测得的流量与目标设定值，并动态调整施加的压力以补偿波动。即使在环境条件或样品特性发生变化的情况下，该微流控反馈回路仍能保持精确控制，非常适用于长期灌流和液滴微流控等应用。
****图 2. 微流控流量控制算法的工作原理示意图。系统同时监测压力和流量，DFC 自动调节压力以维持目标设定值。****
除了基础监测功能外，OxyGEN 还内置协议编辑器（Protocol Editor），用于自动化复杂的微流控操作流程。用户可直接在软件中创建分步骤实验流程，设置时间参数、循环操作和条件响应，甚至可在实际运行前进行模拟。这一功能有助于将原本依赖人工操作的流程转化为标准化、可重复的自动化实验协议。
例如，在循环灌流实验中，OxyGEN 通过控制阀门位置来切换流体流向，并在长期细胞培养过程中保持回路内液体体积恒定。当流体阻力发生变化时，DFC 会立即通过调节压力进行补偿，以维持稳定的流速。该全自动反馈回路最大限度减少了人工干预，确保实验在数小时甚至数天内持续、可靠地运行。
**图 3. OxyGEN 软件中循环灌流协议的运行界面**
**图 4. 循环过程中，流体在两个储液槽之间往返流动的示意图**
欲了解更多信息，请观看我们近期网络研讨会《[通过自动化推动微流体技术发展](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-microfluidics-through-automation/ "通过自动化推动微流体技术发展")》的回放。
## 微流控自动化的应用与案例研究
微流控自动化的影响已覆盖多个领域，从生物医学研究到化学合成。自动化微流控系统通过提升对复杂生物或化学环境的控制能力，正在彻底改变传统实验流程。
### 器官芯片与细胞培养
在器官芯片和细胞培养应用中，自动化对于维持稳定的生理条件至关重要。连续灌流能够更真实地模拟体内环境，从而保证细胞活性和长期稳定性。
Fluigent 基于压力的流量控制器与 OxyGEN 软件相结合，可在数周内实现灌流过程的实时精确调控。由于细胞生长引起的流体阻力或流体性质变化，系统能够即时补偿，从而在整个实验过程中维持最佳流动状态。
在紧凑且高度集成的自动化解决方案方面，**[Omi 器官芯片平台](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "Omi 器官芯片平台")**将压力控制、实时监测和自适应反馈整合于一体，并可直接放入培养箱使用。Omi 支持长期细胞灌流与循环，几乎无需人工干预，确保不同实验之间具有高度一致性。
这些自动化系统已成功应用于多器官模型，在多个互联腔室之间实现精确流量控制，用于模拟器官之间的相互作用。
*****图 5. 基于 Fluigent 组件的肿瘤研究长期细胞培养自动化平台：*****
*****I-LineUp Link 模块；II-LineUp PushPull（±1000/–800 mbar）；III-LineUp Switch EZ；IV-两个 Switch 模块；V-三个 15 mL Pressure CAP HP 储液罐²*****
了解更多： [适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/ "适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术")
### 药物递送与自动化筛选
在药物研发领域，自动化微流控流程可实现药物制备、递送和筛选的高度可重复性。\[Saut de retour à la ligne\]Fluigent 的 LineUp 系列流体处理仪器与 OxyGEN 软件相结合，可对药物配方的制备与递送过程进行精确、自动化控制。例如，在载药脂质体的制备过程中，自动化控制能够确保混合比例、流速以及包封条件的一致性，而这些参数对于药效和粒径分布至关重要。
这一优势在**高通量药物筛选**中尤为突出，因为该类实验通常需要在不同浓度和条件下对多种化合物进行测试。自动化系统能够轻松切换不同溶液、保持稳定流动，并根据实验反馈进行动态调整，从而确保实验结果可靠且可重复。
了解更多： [微流控在药物递送中的应用](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-drug-delivery/ "微流控在药物递送中的应用")
### 自动化免疫荧光与染色流程
自动化微流控系统正在彻底改变免疫染色和免疫荧光检测的实施方式。传统染色流程依赖人工移液、较长的孵育时间以及严格的时间控制，这些步骤都容易引入人为误差。
Fluigent 的 **Aria** 灌流系统与**微流控阀门**可对试剂注入和清洗步骤进行高精度自动化控制。该方案不仅确保试剂分布的一致性，还能显著节省实验时间。
**自动化免疫染色**对神经元培养或组织培养等敏感样本尤为有益。在这些应用中，时间控制和试剂浓度的一致性对于获得清晰、可重复的荧光信号至关重要。
了解更多： [面向组学应用的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/ "面向组学应用的微流控技术")
### 液滴微流控
基于液滴的微流控流程依赖于多路流体之间的精确同步控制。即使是微小的流量波动，也可能影响液滴的尺寸、生成频率或包封效率。
Fluigent 基于 DFC 算法的自动化流量控制解决方案，能够确保液滴生成过程的稳定性和一致性，而这正是单细胞分析、药物筛选和材料合成等应用的关键因素。
这些系统大幅简化了多通道液滴实验，使研究人员能够在极少人工监管的情况下，运行精确且长期的实验方案。
了解更多：[ 用于液滴生成的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/ " 用于液滴生成的微流控技术")
## 未来展望：从自动化走向人工智能
人工智能（AI）的引入代表了微流控控制技术的下一阶段演进。基于 AI 的系统可分析实时传感器数据，预测潜在偏差，并在系统出现不稳定之前主动调整参数，从而实现预测式控制，而非被动反馈。
近期研究已证明，将机器学习算法与自动化微流控系统相结合在技术上是可行的。目前，机器学习模型已经能够在计算机仿真环境中预测液滴尺寸，并对芯片结构进行优化³
通过融合**数据驱动算法、高频传感器和自适应硬件**，下一代微流控系统将能够自主决策实验参数、监测系统性能，甚至自动设计优化的实验流程，标志着**微流控实验室正迈向智能化、自调节**的新阶段。
**图 6. 一种名为 DAFD 的流动聚焦液滴发生器设计自动化工具的工作流程示意图³**
## 结论
微流控自动化正在深刻改变实验室开展实验的方式。通过集成高精度硬件、智能算法和实时反馈机制，自动化系统在一致性、可扩展性和效率方面均远超传统人工操作。
Fluigent 的软硬件生态系统（包括 MFCS、Flow EZ、OxyGEN、DFC 算法以及 Omi 平台）正是这一变革的典型代表。这些产品协同构建了高度自动化、可重复的微流控实验体系，使研究人员能够将精力集中于科学研究本身，而非系统维护与管理。
## 探索我们的流体控制仪器产品系列
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
- [
### 先进的组学技术解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics-technology/)
## 专业技术与资源
- [
### 面向高流量控制的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 微流控在药物递送中的应用：精准医学新时代
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-drug-delivery/)
- [
### 微流控流体控制技术：为可靠结果选择合适的泵
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
- [
### 在器官芯片研究中的为流体压力控制
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
- [
### 面向组学应用的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
如需更多信息或技术交流，[欢迎联系我们](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/ "欢迎联系我们")。
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References:
(1) Gonzalez-Suarez, A. M.; Long, A.; Huang, X.; Revzin, A. A Compact Control System to Enable Automated Operation of Microfluidic Bioanalytical Assays. *Biosensors* **2022**, *12* (12), 1160. https://doi.org/10.3390/bios12121160.
(2) Lacour, M.; Abdelwahed, A. B.; Azaiez, M.; Sciumè, G. Digitally Controlled Microfluidic System for 3D Cell Aggregate Cultures: Towards Advanced Modeling of Tumor Microenvironment. In *26e Congrès Français de Mécanique*; 2025.
(3) Lashkaripour, A.; Rodriguez, C.; Mehdipour, N.; Mardian, R.; McIntyre, D.; Ortiz, L.; Campbell, J.; Densmore, D. Machine Learning Enables Design Automation of Microfluidic Flow-Focusing Droplet Generation. *Nat. Commun.* **2021**, *12* (1), 25. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-20284-z.
(4) Liang, X.; Ouyang, M.; Brandon, N. P.; Xuan, J.; Wang, H. Automated Microfluidics for Efficient Characterization of Cyclohexanol Electrooxidation for Sustainable Chemical Production. *JACS Au* **2025**, *5* (3), 1340–1349. .
(5) Zhan, L.; Hinnen, H.; Gopinathan, K. A.; Toner, M. Autonomous Cryoprotectant Loading of the Oocyte Using Microfluidic Transistors. *Device* **2025**, *3* (6).
(6) Chargueraud, A.; Kool, L.; Fattaccioli, J. Fully Integrated Automatic Reusable Microfluidic Setup for Immobilization, Analysis and Non-Selective Release of Particles. arXiv June 22, 2025. .
(7) Amador-Hernandez, J. U.; Gonzalez-Suarez, A. M.; Stybayeva, G.; Caballero-Robledo, G. A.; Garcia-Cordero, J. L.; Revzin, A. An Automated Thermoplastic Microfluidic Device for Rapid Analysis of Microliter Volumes of Blood. *Available at SSRN 5192100*.
(8) Wang, X. Compact and Automated Multi-Solution Controller for Microfluidic Devices. PhD Thesis, Johns Hopkins University, **2025**. (accessed 2025-10-06).
(9) Osaid, M.; Marino Miguélez, M. H.; Baryak, B.; Özmen-Capin, B. B.; Özenci, V.; van der Wijngaart, W. Rapid Automated Isolation and Concentration of Bacteria from Blood Samples. *bioRxiv* **2025**, 2025–03.
---
### [微流控流体控制技术：为可靠结果选择合适的泵 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
**Published:** December 11, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 微流控流体控制技术概述
### 为什么必须精确控制流体流动？
在微流控实验中，我们需要在亚毫米尺度的微通道中精确操控液体，用于开展不同类型的实验，[例如单分散液滴生成](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/ "例如单分散液滴生成")、[器官芯片（organ-on-a-chip）研究等](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/ "器官芯片（organ-on-a-chip）研究等")。
\*要获得稳定、可重复的实验数据，必须精确控制关键流体参数。例如：设定的流量比会决定液滴的尺寸，也会产生特定的剪切应力，从而影响细胞的生长、空间分布以及蛋白分泌行为。
如果流量设定存在误差，就可能导致液滴尺寸分布变宽（多分散）、系统不稳定、细胞受损，甚至直接导致整个实验失败。因此，稳定、完整且可靠的流体控制是任何微流控系统的基础。
为了在流体驱动的微流控实验中获得最佳结果，需要重点考虑以下因素：
- 所需的流量范围或压力范围。
- 需要多快地设定或改变流量。
- 对流量稳定性的要求有多高。
## 微流控中的主要流体控制方式
目前有多种基于不同原理的技术可将流体注入微流控通道。但由于物理机制不同，它们在控制精度与性能方面存在显著差异：
### 1. 注射泵与蠕动泵（体积位移式）
这类泵通过机械位移来推动液体。注射泵因结构简单而被广泛使用，但其流动往往存在明显的脉动，响应时间较长，尤其是在处理高黏度液体或含气泡样品时问题更突出。此外，注射泵通常缺乏实时监控和压力控制功能，容易导致结果不一致，甚至损伤样品。
蠕动泵成本较低、适合大体积液体输送，但输出流量呈明显脉冲状且不稳定，不适合对精度和流量平滑性要求较高的微流控应用。
注射泵在微流控中的优势和局限并存，主要表现在以下几个方面 \[1\] \[2\]：
**注射泵的优势** :
- 可承受较高压力（具体上限取决于注射器材料）
- 推进速度理论上恒定，便于设定体积输送量
**注射泵的劣势**
- 流量通常呈脉动特征，难以获得真正平滑的流动
- 无法对盲端通道（dead-end channels）中的流体进行有效控制
- 难以准确获知微流控芯片或组件内部的实际压力
### 2. 压力驱动式流体控制
压力驱动系统通过对储液瓶或储液管施加可控气压，将液体平稳推入微流控通道。这种方式具有响应速度快、稳定性高、流动无脉动等优点。当系统集成流量传感器和智能算法（如 Fluigent 的 DFC 技术）后，可以实现压力与流量的实时闭环精确控制，显著提升实验重复性，尤其适用于生物实验和液滴微流控等对稳定性非常敏感的应用。
压力泵的一大优势是：只需一个压力通道，就能同时为多个储液瓶加压。如果你需要按顺序注入不同溶液，这种方式可以显著降低系统成本并简化整体结构。
例如，我们的 MFCS™ 系列产品可将响应稳定时间控制在约 100 ms 级别，压力分辨率可达满量程的 0.03%，测量值稳定性可达 0.1% CV。
压力泵在微流控中的优势与局限大致如下：
**压力泵的优势**
- 真正的无脉动流量控制，几乎没有流速震荡
- 一台设备即可同时实现压力与流量控制
- 稳定性极佳，可达到约 0.005% 级别
- 可以有效控制盲端通道中的流体
- 能精确测量和控制微流控芯片内部压力
**压力泵的局限**
- 最大工作压力通常限制在约 8 bar 左右
- 配合多入口切换阀使用时，如设计不当，可能存在轻微回流风险
## 微流控流体控制：各类微流控泵的优缺点对比
蠕动泵 注射泵 压力驱动泵 **流量稳定性** 差 中等 优秀 **响应时间** 慢慢非常快 **控制精度** 差 中等 优秀 **可注入体积限制** 无限制（可用开放式储液瓶） 有限制（由注射器体积决定） 无限制（可用大体积瓶或储罐） **液体循环** 可实现 不可实现 本身不支持，但可通循环阀等组件实现循环路径。 **小体积样品注入** 差 表现较好（适合极小体积） 中等（体积低于约 10 µL 操作较困难） **气体注入** 不适合 不适合 支持 **样品振荡/搅拌** 可以（样品在独立的储液瓶中） 不方便实现 可以（样品在独立储液瓶中，便于搅拌或振荡） **样品温度控制** 可以（样品在独立的储液瓶中） 不方便实现 可以（同样通过控制储液瓶温度实现） **复杂流型/程序化流量曲线** 不支持 通常不支持 可以（如 LineUp 系列可实现复杂时序和波形） **压力控制** 无 无 可直接调控压力 **流量控制** 可以，但需要预先标定 可以，通过设定推进速度 需要配合流量传感器实现闭环流量控制 **高流量输出** 可实现 不适合（频繁补充注射器不方便） 可实现 **正反向流动** 可以 视机型而定，可实现 可以，但通常需要对出口侧同步加压 **静水压影响** 基本不受影响 基本不受影响 会受到一定影响，但有多种设计技巧可有效减小这一问题。
## 总结与应用指南
- 蠕动泵：适合低成本、大体积液体输送场景，但精度和稳定性较差，更适用于对定量要求不高的传输或非生物类应用，而非严谨的定量微流控实验。
- 注射泵：在小体积样品注入方面很有优势，结构简单、易于使用。但由于流量脉动明显、响应速度较慢，不太适合用于需要高精度流量控制的微流控实验，例如液滴生成、细胞分析等。
- 压力驱动泵：具有高稳定性，可实现压力与流量的实时闭环控制，支持复杂流型编程，同时便于温控和气体注入，非常适合生物研究、液滴微流控、器官芯片以及各类高精度实验。但需要注意最大工作压力有限，在高落差或大高度差系统中有时需要考虑静水压补偿设计。
✅ 推荐：对于追求高精度、可重复结果的微流控实验，压力驱动泵通常是最可靠的选择。
⚠️ 提示：注射泵在小体积样品注入方面很有优势，但由于流量不够稳定，可能会影响生物实验结果的可重复性，使用时需谨慎评估。
## 升系统性能的小建议
在微流控领域，有许多配套方案可以帮助你更好地监控系统状态和优化压力泵使用。Fluigent 提供了丰富的模块化产品，方便你根据需求灵活搭建整体系统。
如果你希望更好地利用压力泵，建议考虑：
- 增加流量传感器，以实现对流量的实时监测与精确控制。配合专用软件，可以通过自动调节压力，直到达到目标流量。
- 在需要快速停流时，将微流控开关或切换阀加入系统，可以在不产生回流或残余缓慢渗流的情况下，迅速停止芯片内的流体。
- 使用微流控切换阀或电磁阀，以便快速更换液体或实现循环/回流。此类阀门在通道数量和配置上有多种选择，可用于分选、循环、回收等多种操作模式。
- 加强压力监测与控制：可以在现有微流控压力泵前端增加额外压力发生器或调压模块，对入口压力进行更精细的控制。
- 为获得高度单分散的液滴，可以在样品中添加适当的表面活性剂，以提高液滴稳定性和生成频率。
- 使用除泡器或脱气模块以避免气泡扰动流场。液体样品中的气泡是微流控实验中非常常见且棘手的问题：它们会扰乱流速、损伤设备或生物样品，并导致实验误差。因此，常需要通过如 Bubble Trap Kit 或脱气模块等配件，将气泡从样品中有效去除。
- 借助软件实现实验自动化，以获得更一致、更可重复的结果。通过统一的软件平台，可以监控并控制系统中所有兼容组件，实现实时状态查看、自动执行实验流程和条件触发的反馈调节，大大简化操作。
## 选择合适的微流控芯片材料
自微流控技术问世以来，它不断借助新技术发展，并持续向更多领域扩展。其中，生物和医疗相关应用已成为当前研究的重点方向之一。
从材料及功能角度看，玻璃和硅在部分场景仍扮演重要角色，但聚合物材料因加工便利、成本更低、设计灵活等优势，逐渐成为微流控芯片的主流选择。不同材料各有优缺点，需要根据具体应用进行权衡。
尽管 PDMS 仍然是微流控芯片微加工中最常用的基底材料，但越来越多具有特殊性能的新材料和复合材料正在被开发，用以更好地适应批量生产、降低成本，并提高对不同应用场景的适配性。
- [
### 微流控芯片：工作原理及选型指南
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
## 结论
对于希望获得更高精度、更快响应和更可靠结果的用户而言，基于压力的流量控制器通常优于传统的注射泵和蠕动泵。它们能够提供平滑、稳定且可实时调控的流动，非常适合现代微流控研究，尤其是液滴生成、器官芯片和细胞培养等应用。
微流控的发展才刚刚开始！
[👉 与专家交流](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[下载我们的免费微流控技术评论](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
## 更多相关内容
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
- [
### 为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 在器官芯片研究中的为流体压力控制
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
- [
### 10 条实现可靠液滴生成的技巧
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/10-tips-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 面向高流量控制的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 用于液滴生成的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## References
1. Beebe, D. J., Mensing, G. A., & Walker, G. M. (2002). Physics and applications of microfluidics in biology. *Annual review of biomedical engineering*, *4*(1), 261-286.s. Lab on a Chip, 2008
2. Li et al, Lab Chip 2014, 14, 744
---
### [微流控技术概述：发展历程与定义 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/what-is-microfluidics/)
**Published:** May 8, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 什么是微流控技术？
微流控技术横跨物理学、工程学和生物学数十载发展而来，既是一门研究流体在微通道中流动行为的科学，也是一种利用微型化芯片和装置处理极少量流体（10⁻⁶ L 至 10⁻¹² L）的技术。这些装置通常包含微米级通道和腔室，用以导流、分隔或加工液体。
自 1990 年代以来，微流控技术呈现高速发展态势，已成为生命科学研究及生物技术领域的重要工具。由于它能显著减少样品与试剂消耗、缩短实验周期并降低整体成本，因而备受学术界与产业界青睐。
## 微流控的工作原理
“微”主要指以下一项或多项特征：
- **体积微小：微升（µL）、纳升（nL）、皮升（pL）、飞升（fL）**
- **尺寸微型：毫米（mm）、微米（µm）**
微流控芯片（microfluidic chip）是此类研究的核心载体，通常通过光刻等微细加工技术在玻璃、硅或聚合物基底上刻蚀出互联通道，使流体可按预定路径从一处流向另一处。
- **主动微流控**：借助微泵（压力驱动、蠕动或注射泵）和微阀（精确定量注射样品或缓冲液）等外部组件，实现连续或定量给液。
- **被动微流控**：通过通道几何形状、毛细力或重力等物理效应，自然引导流体流动。
## 微流控系统的主要组成
一个功能完备的微流控平台通常包括：
- **微通道**：在芯片上刻蚀的小而复杂的液路，用于引导流体。
- **储液池**：液体的进、出口位置，作为试剂或样品的源头与汇集点。
- **[微阀](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "微阀：")：**用于按需开启或关闭通道，分为被动阀（依赖通道结构）和主动阀（电子控制）。
- **[微泵](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "微泵")**：产生压力或流量，驱动液体穿过芯片；常见类型包括注射泵和蠕动泵。
- **传感器**：光学或电化学传感器嵌入系统，实现流体性质的实时监测。
- **检测器**：光探测器、微电极等，用于捕捉流体中化学或生物信号。
- **微流控芯片：**由玻璃、硅或聚合物（如 PDMS）制成，集成上述所有功能元件。
- **控制软件**：用于编程、监控和调度泵、阀等，实现自动化操作。
此外，许多系统还会配备微混合器、温度控制模块等，协同完成化学分析、合成反应或生物诊断等多种任务。
## 微流控的优势与核心原理
在微米尺度下，流体呈现一系列独特优势：
- 快速热交换
- 高表面积/体积比
- 层流显著，有利于受控扩散混合
- 可并行化操作，实现高通量实验
归纳来看，微流控技术能够：
- 大幅降低样品与试剂用量
- 显著缩短实验耗时
- 降低整体应用成本
其综合效益在提高实验效率的同时，也推动资源利用与成本优化。
### “微型化实验室”概念
微流控的核心价值在于，将传统实验室所需的多步工艺，浓缩整合于仅数平方厘米的芯片之上。与传统规模放大相比，微流控通过设备并行化（multiplexing）大幅缩短从配方到产物的周期，使其不仅在分析检测领域具有优势，也正逐步应用于纳米医药、精细化工、食品与环境监测、制药等工艺生产中。
在微流控这一充满活力的领域，一场全新可能性的时代正在展开。
- **实验精度提升：**微流控技术让研究者能够更精细地设计与执行实验，将检测灵敏度推向新的极限，揭示分子层面上曾被认为难以触及的微观细节。
- **高效并行**：通过并行化操作，微流控可同时运行多组实验，大幅提高实验吞吐量与效率。
- **成本降低：**在保证实验质量的前提下，微流控显著削减试剂和样品用量，为研究与生产带来成本优势。
- **时间缩短**：时间是科研中最宝贵的资源之一，微流控能够显著压缩实验流程周期，加速发现与创新的步伐。
- **精准与实用并重**：微流控正重塑科研与工业的格局，使“高效”成为进步的标志，其无限可能正在各个领域持续迸发。
### 精准控制与自动化
微流控系统结合流体驱动与检测模块，能够实现高度自动化的多步化学或生物反应，仅需最少的人工操作即可获得高质量数据。用户无需深厚专业背景，也能执行复杂流程，大幅提高实验普及率与可靠性。
微流控技术一览优势 1
## 微流控技术的起源与演进
上述历程既展示了微流控技术对流体精密操纵的不断突破，也反映了其在科研与产业中的广泛渗透。。
所有这些示例都属于微流控系统，因为它们一方面能够精确地控制不断缩小的流体体积，另一方面实现了流体处理系统的小型化。
该领域的一项重大突破是快速原型聚合物聚二甲基硅氧烷（PDMS）软刻蚀工艺的发展，它为制造原型器件和测试新思路提供了高效便捷的方案。
微流控技术的历史与发展
### 微流控的发展与组件演进
微流控技术的起源可追溯至20世纪50年代，当时主要应用于喷墨打印机制造——其核心机制即基于微流控，通过极细管道输送墨水。
70年代，研究者在硅片上成功构建了一台微型气相色谱仪；到了80年代末，首批基于硅微加工的微阀和微泵相继问世，随后几年又涌现出多种硅基微流控分析系统。
**1950s：** 喷墨打印机的微流体系统——最早将微型管路用于墨水输送
**1970s：** 在硅片上构建首台微型气相色谱仪
**1980s 末：** 基于硅微加工的首批微阀与微泵问世
**1990s**： 软刻蚀工艺（Soft Lithography）与 PDMS 材料推广，使快速原型制造成为可能；“芯片实验室”概念兴起
**2000s：** 滴流微流控、细胞培养芯片、器官芯片等应用拓展
**2006：** Fluigent 推出首款微流控压力泵，实现脉动极小的快速响应流控
**2010s–至今**： 大规模生产与终端用户系统面世，市场化设备与应用不断涌现
上述历程既展示了微流控技术对流体精密操纵的不断突破，也反映了其在科研与产业中的广泛渗透。
所有这些示例都属于微流控系统，因为它们一方面能够精确地控制不断缩小的流体体积，另一方面实现了流体处理系统的小型化。
该领域的一项重大突破是快速原型聚合物聚二甲基硅氧烷（PDMS）软刻蚀工艺的发展，它为制造原型器件和测试新思路提供了高效便捷的方案。
### 微流控的发展与组件演进
**1990年代** : 着微加工技术的进步，微流控系统的应用边界被大幅拓展。研究人员开始设计“实验室芯片”（Lab-on-a-Chip）设备，涵盖化学分析到医学诊断等多种场景。这一时期诞生了首批集成传感器和阀门的微流控装置。
**21世纪初** : 微流控技术迅速普及，广泛应用于基因组学、蛋白质组学、药物筛选和现场诊断（Point-of-Care）等领域。同时，“器官芯片”模型应运而生，通过在芯片上复制人体生理环境，提高体外测试的生理相关性。
**当下与未来** : 微流控依然在不断突破，研究的重点集中在提升系统的精度、可扩展性，以及与其他学科（如电子学、材料学）的深度融合。多年来，研发者持续推出新型微流控组件，涵盖流体输送、定量计量、混合、阀控，以及在微量环境下对分子进行浓缩与分离的方案。
**案例：Fluigent 的微流控压力泵**
2006 年，Fluigent 推出首款微流控压力泵，开创了非注射泵驱动的新模式。相比传统注射泵，压力泵响应更快、无脉动流。最初，它们仅能对芯片内液体施加压力；随着流量传感器与专用反馈控制回路的加入，Fluigent 实现了对压力与流速的双重精准控制，为许多高端应用打开了大门。
近年来，越来越多基于微流控的产品由初创企业及大型制药、生物医药公司陆续推向市场，推动整个行业迈向成熟。
## 对比示例：为何选择微流控装置而非机器人？
由于微流控仅需极低的液体体积，它成为传统实验室方法的有力替代方案。几平方厘米大小的芯片上，就能完成从试剂输送、反应到检测的完整实验流程。 表 1 展示了在对典型酶进行超高通量筛选时，微流控技术相较于传统实验方法的主要优势。
机器人微流体液滴*总反应数* 5 × 107 5 × 107 *单个反应体积* 100 µL 6 pL *总体积* 5,000 L 150 µL *每日反应数* 73,000 1 × 108 *总耗时* 2*年* 7*小时* *所需板/设备数量* 260,000 2*板/设备成本* $ 520,000 $1.00 *吸头成本* *$1,000 万* $0.30 *仪器摊销成本* $ 280,000 $1.70 *底物成本* $475 *万* $0.25 *总成本* $1,581 *万* $2.50 表格：使用传统方法与微流控乳液的比较。改编自Agresti J. J. 等人，《基于液滴的微流控超高通量筛选用于定向进化》，PNAS 2010, 107:4004-4009。版权2010年美国国家科学院\[2\]。
显微镜下的高通量微流控筛选实验图像
微流控：如同计算机的缩小之路
为了更直观地感受微流控的变革意义，不妨类比计算机的发展：
- 1960年代，一台计算机占据整整一个房间；
- 随着组件不断微型化，笔记本电脑应运而生；
- 而今，智能手机的性能早已超越早期任何一台“房间级”计算机，同时价格更低、使用更便捷。
微流控技术亦是如此——将实验室级的流体处理能力浓缩到掌上芯片，带来前所未有的效率与便捷。
## 微流控的应用一览
微流控凭借对超微量流体的精细操控，已突破“实验室芯片”和“器官芯片”的传统框架，广泛渗透至各行各业。
- 化妆品：精准配比与乳化工艺，助力新配方的高效开发与优化。
- 制药与药物筛选：加速药物发现过程，以更少的试剂和样品完成更多实验。
- 医疗健康：在个性化诊疗与快速诊断中发挥关键作用，开启小体积样本的创新检测方案。
- 化学合成：用于连续流合成与化学计量优化，提高反应效率与产率。
- 生物研究：在细胞培养和三维生物打印中重现生理微环境，支持更高仿真度的体外实验。
- 液滴技术：精准制备与操作微滴，用于单细胞分析、化学反应微反应器等多种场景。
- 能源科学：在提高石油采收率（EOR）模型和等离子体约束研究中，展示跨学科适应性。
- 工业生产：提供高效、精准且成本可控的微型化工艺平台。
### 工业化应用：微流控如何助力生产
- **高通量筛选：**支持多通道并行实验，快速评估多种工艺或配方参数，节省时间与资源。
- **工艺微型化：**缩小反应体系体积，降低试剂消耗，尤其适合稀缺或昂贵物料的处理。
- **现场快速诊断：**研发便携式微流控检测仪器，实现生产线上实时质量监测，减少停机时间。
- **定制化制造：**构建可调控的微环境，以满足专用产品开发中的特定工艺需求。程。这在需要特定条件才能实现最佳产品开发的应用中尤为有益。
- [自动化与集成](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products/full-customization/ "自动化与集成")：微流控组件易于与机器人或生产线集成，简化操作流程，降低人工介入，提高整体效率。
通过上述方式，微流控技术能够显著提升工业流程的智能化水平，降低成本，并大幅提升产能与质量。
- [
### 从概念到生产
查看更多](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
- [
### 微流控OEM
查看更多](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
微流控的发展才刚刚开始！
[👉 与专家交流](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[下载我们的免费微流控技术评论](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
## 结论
微流控技术为我们带来了革命性的新能力。作为一项相对新兴的技术，要让临床医生、细胞生物学家和公共卫生官员等非流体物理领域的用户充分受益，仍有大量工作要做。
目前，微流控相关的应用和产品已在纳米医学等领域走向市场，实现了对 DNA、蛋白质、细菌乃至单细胞水平的更精准分析。随着高通量筛选和器官芯片技术的持续发展，药物研发将变得更快、更高效。结合实验室芯片（Lab-on-a-Chip）与微分析系统（µTAS）的自动化趋势，未来的诊断产品将更便宜、更快捷，为发展中国家带来福音。
## 相关内容
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### 细胞与组织的微吸技术
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### 微流控微滴生成方法
浏览评论](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e6%8e%a7%e5%be%ae%e6%bb%b4%e7%94%9f%e6%88%90%e6%96%b9%e6%b3%95/)
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### 先进的组学技术解决方案
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### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
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### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
## References
1. Bahnemann, J.; Grünberge, A. Microfluidics in Biotechnology: Overview and Status Quo. Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology book series, 2022, ABE,volume 179.
2. Agresti, J. J.; Antipov, E.; Abate, A. R.; Ahn, K.; Rowat, A. C.; Baret, J.-C.; Marquez, M.; Klibanov, A. M.; Griffiths, A. D.; Weitz, D. A. Ultrahigh-Throughput Screening in Drop-Based Microfluidics for Directed Evolution. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 2010, 107 (9), 4004–4009.
---
### [微流控微滴生成方法](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/微流控微滴生成方法/)
**Published:** March 12, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 微滴微流控的定义
**微滴微流控**是一种强大的技术，能够生成和操控微米级的单分散微滴。基于微流控的微滴控制与生成技术具有以下优势：
- 高度单分散微滴的生产，优于传统的批量乳化法，可实现”在线”连续微滴生产。
- 单个微滴作为独立的微量（pL 级）生化反应器。
- 通过微滴生成技术，实现生产和生物分析设备的小型化。
基于微流控技术的微滴具有广泛的应用，例如颗粒合成\[1\]和物理化学分析\[2\]。
高精度的微滴控制还能应用于单细胞分析\[3\]、药物筛选\[4\]\[5\]等领域。
图1油包水water in oil液滴
## 微滴是如何在微流控系统中生成的？
微流控微滴生成的方法基于两种不可混溶的液体，通常为油相和水相，并借助微流控芯片来形成微滴。根据微流控芯片的设计和材料的不同，微滴生成方式涉及不同的物理机制。目前，微流控微滴生成领域常用的三种设计是：
共流（Co-flow）、T 型交汇（T-junction）和流体聚焦（Flow-focusing） **\[6\]\[7\]\[8\]\[9\]**.
### 共流（Co-flow）设计的微滴生成
共流设计采用同轴毛细管结构，内管传输分散相，外管传输连续相。当分散相进入主流通道时，连续相的粘性应力会拉伸界面，直至其破裂形成微滴\[7\]\[10\]\[11\]\[12\]\[13\]。
**优点**：设计简单，易于制造。
**缺点**：微滴尺寸及生成频率受限。
图2 共流Co flow
### T 型交汇（T-junction）设计的微滴生成
该技术最早由 Thorsen 等人 在 2001 年提出\[16\]，它是最简单且应用最广泛的微滴生成方法，可实现对微滴生成的精确控制。在 T 型交汇（T-junction） 结构中，分散相（内相） 垂直注入 连续相（外相） 的流动中，从而生成微流控微滴。
当两种不可混溶的液体到达 T 形交叉点 时，分散相逐渐进入主流通道，而此时连续相的剪切作用开始显现。分散相在两相的界面处形成弯曲结构，随着分散相不断向主通道推进，界面弯曲处逐渐变窄，直至界面断裂，形成独立的微滴，并沿着通道流动\[17\]\[18\]\[19\]。
T 型交汇设计的优势 在于：结构简单，易于制造和操作；微滴断裂机制已被深入研究，便于精准控制微滴生成过程；微滴频率与尺寸控制方便。
缺点：微滴的频率和尺寸范围 仍受限于芯片的设计与材料。
图3 T 型交汇T junction
### 流体聚焦（Flow-focusing）设计的微滴生成
该方法由 Anna 等人 在 2003 年提出\[14\]。
在流体聚焦设计中，分散相 直接注入主流通道，而 连续相 通过两侧垂直布置的支流道注入。连续相从两侧对分散相施加挤压力，使其受控流动，并在两相交界面上，由于粘性力与表面张力的竞争作用，最终形成微滴\[15\]。
与 T 型交汇设计 相比，流体聚焦设计的一个显著特点是流动的对称性。对称的流体动力学效应使该设计在微滴尺寸和生成频率方面更具灵活性，并且微滴生成过程对两相流量的变化更敏感。然而，对微滴断裂机制的认知和控制仍然存在一定的局限性。
图4流体聚焦Flow focusing
## 哪种微滴生成模式满足我的需求？
在微流控微滴生成过程中，根据实验条件的不同，可以观察到多种微滴形成模式：
**挤压模式（Squeezing Regime）**：在该模式下，微滴呈柱塞状（plug-shaped），占据整个通道的宽度，且长度大于宽度（长宽比>1）。生成的微滴尺寸主要取决于分散相与连续相的流速比。柱塞状微滴的破裂主要由于分散相在主通道内造成的局部压力下降所导致。.
**滴落模式（Dripping Regime）**：该模式下，生成的微滴呈球形，其尺寸接近通道宽度。此时，粘性剪切力是促使微滴脱离的主要因素。
**射流模式（Jetting Regime）**：该模式的特征是微滴的生成发生在远离两相交汇处的位置。此模式下，生成的微滴尺寸远小于通道宽度，且微滴生成频率极高。
图 5微滴生成模式
## Drop-Seq 技术在微流控中的应用
图6使用Fluigent 微滴生成入门套装进行微滴生成的方法
DNA 及其表达调控是细胞生命活动的核心。然而，我们对细胞及其多样性的理解仍然有限且不完整。深入研究细胞的发育、功能及繁殖至关重要，尤其是因为**基因突变**往往是导致多种疾病（如癌症、自身免疫病、糖尿病等）的关键因素。
目前的基因测序和分析方法尚无法全面解析 DNA 的功能及其复杂调控机制。**Drop-Seq** 和 In-Drop技术利用微流控方法，通过将**成千上万个单细胞封装到微滴中**，实现**高通量并行分析**，从而为基因组研究提供强有力的工具。
## dPCR 在微流控应用中的最新进展
**PCR（聚合酶链式反应）** 是分子生物学中广泛应用的技术，能够对已知的 **DNA 或 RNA 序列** 进行高达 **十亿倍** 的扩增。
Currently, microfluidics has enabled a new technique which consists of single cell and PCR
目前，微流控技术已催生了一种新的 **数字 PCR（dPCR）** 方法，该技术通过将**单个细胞与 PCR 反应混合液** 封装在微滴中进行扩增。微流控系统的**高微滴生成频率**和**低体积反应体系**，不仅大幅提高了**扩增效率**，还能**降低试剂消耗成本**，从而提升实验的通量和经济性。
图 7微滴中的单细胞封装
### Fluigent 微滴生成入门套装
图8 Fluigent 微滴生成入门套装
Fluigent 微滴生成套装提供了一种简便高效的微滴生产方法，能够全面控制微滴的尺寸和生成频率。该套装包含所有必要组件，包括压力控制器、微滴芯片和表面活性剂，可快速搭建微滴实验平台。套装包含：
- 压力控制器：Flow EZ
- 流量传感器：Flow Unit
- 微滴生成芯片：EZ-Drop
- 含表面活性剂的连续相：dSURF油
- 管路与储液器套装
## 复杂乳液生产平台
**复杂乳液生产平台** 是专门用于**微滴及复杂乳液**（如**双乳液、微胶囊**等）生产的系统。
软件包包括以下组件：
- 压力控制器：Flow EZ
- 流量传感器： 流量装置
- 液滴生成芯片：Raydrop
- 超快相机
- 管道和储液器
[进一步探索我们的液滴相关产品和解决方案](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
[用于液滴生成的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
**该平台操作简便，可用于精确控制微滴生成，以适应多种应用需求，包括：**
双乳液
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
壳聚糖微胶囊
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
PLGA 微胶囊
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
紫外光聚合微胶囊
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
## 相关文献
\[1\] Jean-Christophe Galas, Denis Bartolo and Vincent Studer, « Active connectors for microfluidic drops on demand », New Journal of Physics, n°11, 075027, 2009
\[2\] M. C. Jullien, et al., “Droplet breakup in microfluidic Tjunctions at small capillary numbers”, Physics of fluids, n°21, 072001, 2009
\[3\] Macosko et al, “Highly Parallel Genome-Wide Expression Profiling of Individual Cells Using Nanoliter Droplets, n° ,pp 1202-1214, 2015
\[4\] L. Yu, M. C. W. Chen, K. C. Cheung, “Droplet-based microfluidic system for multicellular tumor spheroid formation and anticancer drug testing”, Lab Chip, n°10, pp. 2424-2432, 2010
\[5\] Shembekar et al, « Droplet-based microfluidics in drug discovery » Lab Chip, n°16, pp. 1314-1331, 2016
\[6\] Ralf Seemann et al, « Droplet based micro?uidics », 2011
\[7\] Tomasz Glawdela, Caglar Elbuken and Carolyn L. Ren, « Droplet Generation in Microfluidics », 2013
\[8\] Pingan Zhuab and Liqiu Wang, « Passive and active droplet generation with microfluidics: a review » , Lab Chip, n°17, pp. 34-75, 2017
\[9\] G F Christopher and S L Anna, « Microfluidic methods for generating continuous droplet streams », 2007
\[10\] Pingan Zhu · Xin Tang · Liqiu Wang « Droplet generation in co?flow microfluidic channels with vibration », 2016
\[11\] C. Cramer, P. Fischer, and E. J. Windhab, 2004. “Drop formation in a co–flowing ambient fluid,” *Chemical Engineering Science*, vol. 59, pp. 3045–3058
\[12\] Y. Hong and F. Wang, 2007. “Flow rate effect on droplet control in a co-flowing microfluidic device,” *Microfluidics and Nanofluidics*, vol. 3, pp. 341–346
\[13\] R. Xiong, M. Bai, and J. Chung, 2007. “Formation of bubbles in a simple co–flowing microchannel,” *Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering*, vol. 17, pp. 1002–1011,
\[14\] Shelley L. Anna, Nathalie Bontoux and Howard A. Stone, « Formation of dispersions using ‘‘?ow focusing’’ in microchannels », 2002
\[15\] A. M. Ganan-Calvo and J. M. Gordillo “Perfectly monodisperse microbubbling by capillary flow focusing,” *Physical Review Letters*, vol. 87, p. 274501, , 2001
\[16\] T. Thorsen, Richard W. Roberts, Frances H. Arnold et S.R. Quake : Dynamic pattern formation in a vesicle-generating microfluidic device. Physical Review Letters, 86(18):4163–4166, 2001
\[17\] Tomasz Glawdel • Carolyn L. Ren , « Global network design for robust operation of micro?uidic droplet generators with pressure-driven ?ow », 2012
\[18\] Evandro Piccin, Davide Ferraro, Paolo Sartori , Enrico Chiarello, Matteo Pierno, Giampaolo Mistura, « Generation of water-in-oil and oil-in-water microdroplets in polyester-toner microfluidic devices », 2014
\[19\] Qiang Liao, Shu-Zhe Li, Rong Chen, Hong Wang, Xun Zhu, Wei Zhang, and Xue-Feng He, « Coalescence with droplets caused acceleration of the liquid movement in microchannels »,2015
---
### [微流控在药物递送中的应用：精准医学新时代 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/microfluidics-drug-delivery/)
**Published:** June 10, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
**目录：**
1. [微流控与传统药物递送方法的比较 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#microfluidics "微流控与传统药物递送方法的比较 ")
2. [改进药物载体合成的微流控技术 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#lnp "改进药物载体合成的微流控技术 ")
3. [基于微流控的无载体微针给药系统 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#microneedles "基于微流控的无载体微针给药系统 ")
4. [器官芯片：体外药物递送模型](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/微流体博客/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#in-vitro-models "器官芯片：体外药物递送模型")
5. [微流控在药物及蛋白质晶体化研究中的应用 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%E5%BE%AE%E6%B5%81%E4%BD%93%E5%8D%9A%E5%AE%A2/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#application-of-microfluidics)
## 微流控与传统药物递送方法的比较？
传统的药物递送方式（口服、注射、吸入等）在提升药物溶解性、稳定性和靶向性的同时，往往面临复杂、可扩展性差、精准度和可重复性不足的制备工艺，加之生物分布不良及生物屏障限制，从而降低了许多治疗剂的疗效。\[3\]
微流控技术为更高效、可控的递送系统提供了新的方向，能够在微尺度精准、可扩展且可重复地制备先进药物载体（图1）。 \[4-6\]
本综述总结了微流控在精准药物递送领域的最新进展，按照以下三大主题展开：
(a) 通过微流控平台制备药物载体，包括脂质和聚合物纳米颗粒；
(b) 微流控技术与微针技术的结合，用于微创给药；
(c) 微流控在纳米医学和药物研究中的更广泛应用，如晶体化技术以及体外药物递送机制研究平台的开发。
图1利用微流控方法制备药物载体NDDS纳米药物递送系统
引自 Zhang H 等Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B 2023 13 8 32773299
## 微流控技术如何改进药物递送颗粒的合成？
### 1- 脂质纳米颗粒（LNP）微流控合成技术：
脂质纳米颗粒是一类很有前景的药物递送系统，具有良好的生物相容性，能够封装多种治疗分子，并实现可控释放。以下列举了用于 LNP 合成的几种微流控技术 \[7\]：
- **微流体水动力聚焦（MHF）：**
该技术以溶解脂质的有机相为中心流，两侧以水相缓冲液夹持。当脂质流被压缩成薄股后迅速扩散，自组装形成纳米颗粒（见图2‑A）。通过调节各流速比，可精确控制颗粒性质；同时通过调节流道配置，可实现亲水性药物的同步包封。 \[8-9 \]
- **混沌对流混合器：**
此类装置在微通道中加入锯齿或弯曲等结构，通过拉伸和折叠流体层打破层流，实现快速高效混合（见图2‑B），从而获得更均一的纳米颗粒。该方法兼具快速混合和连续流操作的优势。 \[10-12\]
- **涡旋聚焦：**
该方法结合了 MHF 和混沌混合的特点，在锥形腔中自轴向注入脂质溶液、切向注入缓冲液（见图2‑C），旋涡流同时实现流体聚焦与旋转混合，一步生成纳米颗粒。\[13-14\]
图2微流控脂质纳米颗粒制备技术引自 Mehraji S 等Lab Chip 2024 24 5 11541174
### 2- 聚合物纳米颗粒（PNP）的微流控合成:
聚合物纳米颗粒在药物递送中应用广泛，可封装从亲水到疏水、从核酸到蛋白的多种药物。与以脂质为主的自组装结构不同，PNP 由可生物降解或生物相容的聚合物（如 PLGA、PCL 等）组成，可形成矩阵型纳米球或核‑壳纳米囊，赋予更大的封装灵活性。
PNP 的微流控合成在颗粒尺寸、分布以及包封效率的精准控制方面与 LNP 的制备类似（见图3）。两者常用的技术包括水动力聚焦、纳米沉淀和同轴流系统，主要区别在于材料组成和溶剂体系。 \[2,5,9,15,16 \]
图3用于药物递送的聚合物纳米颗粒引自 Begines B 等Nanomaterials 2020 10 7 1403
### 3- 基于微流控的液滴微粒生产：
由生物高分子制成的微粒正成为可持续药物递送、细胞治疗和生物医用植入物的重要平台。传统批量生产往往粒径分布宽、重复性差，而微流控可以精确调控微粒特性，获得高质量的递送体系。
该技术在微通道内产生液滴，将聚合物溶液包裹于不相混溶的载液中，然后通过交联、溶剂蒸发或聚合等方式固化。通过调节通道几何和流速，可精确控制液滴尺寸和生成频率。
这些方法兼具精度、可重复性，并可兼容多种药物和材料，是下一代治疗体系的理想选择。
图4封装溶菌酶的 PLGA 微球Secoya Technologies 制备
**表1：微流控药物包封实例（改编自 Parra Saldivar 等，Front Biosci 2018, 10 (1), 74–91）。**
**使用材料** **几何结构** **载体材料** **药物** **应用** **参考文献** 璃共流 人血清白蛋白、聚乳酸 多柔比星 肝癌 20PEEK 与二氧化硅管 T 型连接 聚甲基丙烯酸酯、聚丙烯酰胺 洛芬、雷尼替丁抑制胃部刺激作用 21硅 流体聚焦 聚乳酸-羟基乙酸共聚物 环孢素 免疫抑制治疗 22聚二甲基硅氧烷 带鱼骨纹路的共流 脂质体 丙泊酚 麻醉剂 23石英芯片 流体聚焦 透明质酸、乙二胺 地塞米松 间充质干细胞分化 24玻璃 共流与流体聚焦 聚己内酯、聚乙烯醇、聚乙二醇 牛血清白蛋白 蛋白质治疗 25聚二甲基硅氧烷 T 型连接 聚乙二醇二丙烯酸酯 5-氟尿嘧啶 癌症治疗 26聚甲基丙烯酸甲酯 V 型连接 聚甲基硅氧烷 伊曲康唑 抗真菌感染药 27## 基于微流控的无载体微针药物递送系统
微流控技术推动了无载体药物递送系统的发展。借助微流控平台的精准与可控性，药物可直接输送至靶位，减少传统载体的需求，从而提高生物利用度并实现精准释放。微针是该体系中最有前景的部件之一，常与微流控设备深度集成，以优化治疗分子的递送。
微针（MNs）：微针由一系列微尺度针体组成，可穿透皮肤或其他组织，进行靶向给药；其微创且几乎无痛，可替代传统注射或口服给药。微流控提供的流量控制确保药物在局部精准释放，特别适用于在消化系统中易降解的药物。
微针的类型：
1. **实心微针**：通过在皮肤上打孔后再涂布药物，使药物被动扩散进入皮肤。常用材料包括硅、金属和聚合物。
2. **可溶解微针：**由可降解材料制成，插入皮肤后自行溶解，将药物直接释放到目标组织。常用材料包括聚乙烯醇（PVA）、聚乙烯吡咯烷酮（PVP）、聚乳酸（PLA）等。\[31\]
3. **水凝胶微针**：由可吸水膨胀的聚合物制成，插入皮肤后通过水凝胶的膨胀释放药物。常用材料包括聚乙二醇（PEG）、聚丙烯酰胺（PAAm）、壳聚糖等。
4. **空心微针：**针体中空，可直接将药物注入体内。常用材料包括玻璃、硅、金属和聚合物。
图5不同类型微针及其对应的药物递送机制引自 Zhang Y 等Exploration 2023 3 1 20210170
## 用于药物递送评估的体外模型
为了弥合传统体外模型与人体生理复杂性之间的差距，器官芯片（OOC）平台作为强有力工具被用于评估药物递送系统。这些模型在动态结构与功能上高度仿真人体组织，可提供药物运输、吸收及治疗反应的洞见。
药物载体进入体内后，通往靶位的过程中会受到多种生理屏障阻碍。准确地模拟并理解这些障碍对于开发安全有效的递送系统至关重要。微流控 OOC 平台提供了一个可控环境，可实时模拟和分析这些屏障。
**主要生理屏障包括：**
- **血脑屏障（BBB）：**这一高度调控的界面限制了大多数治疗剂进入大脑。微流控 BBB‑on‑a‑chip 通过在剪切流条件下共培养内皮细胞、星形胶质细胞和周细胞，模拟 BBB 的选择性通透性和紧密连接，对于评估脑靶向药物递送极为重要。 \[37\]
- **黏膜扩散屏障：**存在于胃肠道、呼吸道及生殖道等部位，由致密的黏液层组成，可捕获并排除外来颗粒。微流控模型可复现黏液粘度与分泌动力学，实时观察纳米颗粒扩散、穿透和滞留情况，适用于口服和肺部给药研究。 \[38\]
- **细胞通透屏障：**由具紧密连接的上皮或内皮单层构成，控制跨细胞和旁细胞转运。芯片系统可模拟细胞结构与机械刺激，用于研究纳米颗粒摄取、受体介导运输及屏障完整性调控。
- **生化屏障：**体内酶与 pH 变化（尤其在胃肠道及溶酶体环境）可使药物在到达靶位前降解或失活。微流控生化模型通过模拟这些条件，测试纳米载体在生理相关压力下的稳定性和保护效能。
将上述屏障整合到微流控器官芯片中，可实现更具预测性且更符合人源的临床前评价。
诸如肠芯片、血管芯片、血脑屏障芯片等芯片已展示了微流控精准药物递送的潜力。
随着微流控药物递送领域的不断发展，这些平台可用于纳米医学中的药代动力学、药效学及治疗指数评估，降低对动物模型的依赖。
图6在气液界面 2D 或 3D 细胞培养中构建内皮上皮屏障引自 BeOnChip
[](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
在眼部给药的案例中，利用微流控系统复制动态的眼内环境，通过集成流量控制和温度调节，可模拟眼内压力波动与眼球运动，精确评估这些变量对药物清除与滞留的影响。多模型自动化传感与同步流体管理提高了重现性和通量，为眼科药物递送的配方筛选提供了更具预测性和可扩展性的测试方法。 \[40\]
图7用于眼部药物递送的体外微流控监测平台Awwad S 等Pharmaceutics 2023 15 5 1444
## 微流控在药物及蛋白质晶体化研究中的应用
微流控系统也在改变蛋白质晶体化这一药物开发关键步骤。传统方法需要大量样品，而微流控平台仅需极少量蛋白和试剂即可筛选晶体化条件，通过模拟不同 pH、温度和盐浓度，加速并提高晶体化效率。
最新创新（如基于离心的微流控装置和半接触式分液技术）提升了高通量筛选与精度，降低成本并加速药物开发，为结构分析提供高质量蛋白晶体，从而促进更精准的药物递送。
图8：（左）晶体化过程示意图示例；（右）微胶囊中的溶菌酶晶体（引自 Mettler, M. 等，Chem. Commun. 59, 12739–12742 (2023)）。
## 结论
本综述回顾了微流控技术在药物递送系统中的最新进展，可提升生物利用度、药效及纳米颗粒性能。尽管已取得进展，将这些系统扩大到临床应用仍面临挑战，需要改进并行化和简化制备工艺。将微流控与器官芯片结合，为更准确的临床前测试和个性化医疗提供了有力方案。随着跨学科合作的持续深入，微流控有望进一步改变药物递送与治疗应用。
[探索更多关于基于液滴微流控的专业知识 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
[进一步探索我们的液滴相关产品和解决方案](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
👉 准备好改进您的药物递送流程了吗？欢迎联系专家或探索我们的微流控压力控制系统。
[联系专家 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
---
### [在器官芯片研究中的为流体压力控制](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
**Published:** September 9, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 器官芯片应用中的微流控流体控制器
器官芯片可在微尺度装置中模拟人体器官的结构与功能\[1\]。这类装置通常由置于微流控通道中的细胞或类器官构成，旨在逼真再现特定器官的生理反应。
通过重建器官的微环境与细胞相互作用，OOC 技术相较传统的二维细胞培养或动物模型，更能提供贴近生理的研究平台，用于探究器官功能、疾病机制及药物反应。
*图 1：整合培养基灌流与循环的器官芯片示意图*
在 OOC 装置中复现生理微环境的关键之一，是构建可控的液体灌流系统，以输送营养、药物、代谢物与转录因子等。研究者可选择多种流体控制技术，各有优劣（见表 1）。
### 1. 蠕动泵
蠕动泵通过挤压柔性管实现正排量，形成脉动流。其设备普及、上手容易，兼容多种流体，并因液体仅接触管路而具备较低污染风险。但其流速与压力控制能力较弱，且脉动特性不一定适合血管化等对稳态剪切要求高的模型。
### 2. 注射泵
注射泵由电机驱动，通过一个或多个注射器进行输注。其界面直观、易于编程，可设定并调整流速、体积与输注速率等参数。
根据编程设置，注射泵既可提供连续流，也可提供间歇流，适用于需要特定流型的实验。
尽管如此，注射泵也存在局限：
- 有效低流速控制与响应性不足
- 注射器容积有限，需定期补液
- 液体直接接触注射器，污染风险增加
难以实现培养基的连续回收循环。
### 3. 压力式流体控制器（压力泵）
压力式流体控制器利用气动系统产生压差，驱动液体在微流控芯片中流动。其优势包括：高流速稳定性与快速响应；既可实现连续流，也可编程实现脉动流；还能便捷地集成多器官系统。具体选择何种灌流技术，应依据 OOC 对流速、压力/流型、脉动需求与细胞相容性的要求而定。
**表 1：OOC 常用微流控技术对比**
**蠕动泵** **注射泵** **压力泵** **流量稳定性与精度** 低 中 高 **时间响应性** 高 低 高 ****流体再循环**** ☑️✖️☑️ 配 L-switch****微小体积注入能力**** 低 高 中 ****样品搅拌/扰动**** ☑️✖️☑️******复杂流型（可编程）****** ✖️✖️☑️ [LineUp 系列）](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "LineUp 系列）")
### 为什么在器官芯片上采用压力控制？
[压力控制微流控](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/ "压力控制微流控")可精确再现实验中细胞/组织所经历的流速、剪切应力与机械力，贴近体内生理条件，从而提升实验结果的可靠性与可重复性。
由于压力本身是流动的内在驱动力，调节压力即可细腻地操控流体动力学过程，建立生理梯度，并向细胞提供特定的机械信号，影响其行为、分化与功能。这一能力支撑了复杂微环境的构建——从精确的血管剪切分布到明确的间质压力场。
精确的压力控制也是 OOC 内部药物递送与灌流的基础，使细胞/组织能够受到可控的药物、毒素或其他物质暴露，从而评估其对器官功能与反应的影响。
## 器官芯片应用中的关键考量
OOC 中的培养基灌流相当于“循环系统”，维持营养与代谢废物的浓度梯度以实现对流传输\[2\]。选择与器官芯片连接的微流控灌流系统时，应综合考虑：
- ****流速、压力控制与脉动性****
复现实体内微环境需针对不同器官匹配相应条件。肺芯片用于模拟呼吸运动与气流，通常需要较低至中等的流速（每分钟数微升）与温和压力，以准确再现呼吸动力学和肺泡环境\[3\]。心肌芯片则多需脉动流以模拟心肌收缩，常对应更高流速（每分钟数十至数百微升）与中高压力能力，才能形成贴近生理泵动的流型。
- ****细胞活性与剪切应力****
OOC 培养活细胞/组织，敏感于机械力与流体条件。过高剪切会影响细胞活性、增殖与功能。因此需评估泵型所致剪切水平，在确保足够流量的同时，尽量降低对细胞的不良影响。以神经细胞为例，其对剪切应力尤其敏感，需严格控制流速，避免破坏细胞网络或诱发损伤\[4\]。
- ****系统集成与兼容性****
OOC 常用于研究多器官交互（如肝-肺串联以研究药物代谢与毒性）。各器官模型所用系统需优化，以实现芯片间的通量与信息交换。有些模型还集成 pH、氧气与电活动传感，因此需确保与压力控制器的兼容性。由于长期培养与成像/分析至关重要，还需考虑与生物安全柜、成像/分析设备的配套，包括摆放、取样便利与光学透过性。
- ****污染风险****
体外模型必须保持无菌以降低变异、保证重复性。某些泵的液体会接触内部部件，增加污染风险。器官芯片应用更适合选择尽量避免流体接触内部机械部件的泵型。
## 走近微流控压力控制
### OOC 的压力控制系统
[在微流控系统中](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/ "在微流控系统中")，下列组件协同工作，使研究者能够模拟动态微环境、维持长期实验的稳定条件，并精准控制流向。
**组件** **功能** **在 OOC 系统中的作用****压力源** 产生并调节流体驱动力 驱动组织/器官模型灌流 **压力与流量传感器** 监测通道内压力与流速 保障生理范围内的压力/流量，避免损伤敏感细胞 **压力控制器** 基于传感反馈调节流动以维持设定 实现稳定的长期培养，并对芯片环境变化（如细胞过度增殖导致的堵塞）做出动态响应 **阀** 导流/开闭/限流 实现多路复用、培养基再循环、定时刺激与多器官互作研究 **反馈控制系统（如软件控制）** 利用实时数据动态调整压力或流量 支持脉动流、自动化流程与稳定重现生理动力学
通过整合上述组件，研究者可利用 Fluigent 的微流控压力控制方案（见图 2）在器官芯片中实现培养基的闭路循环，从而构建精准的流体环境。
该方案与 Beonchip 合作验证，并与传统蠕动泵对比，评估流速稳定性对细胞行为的影响。由于内皮细胞对微小流速变化极其敏感，在器官芯片研究中维持恒定剪切应力对保持生理相关性至关重要。
[观看完整网络研讨会：《器官芯片：走向下一代细胞培养平台》](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-a-chip-and-cell-culture-platforms/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/schema-l-switch.png)**图 2：Fluigent 基于压力控制的再循环系统示例。两台 Flow EZ 连接两个储液瓶，管路依次经过 L-SWITCH（用于培养基再循环）、流量单元与微流控装置，系统由 OxyGEN 软件控制。**
## Omi：一体化器官芯片流体平台
[Omi 平台在 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "Omi 平台在 ")Fluigent 成熟的压力式微流控体系之上，提供包含压力源、传感器与阀的模块化一体化方案，用于管理 OOC 应用中的复杂流体流程。
Omi 扩展了经典 Fluigent 组态的能力，提供统一界面以实现精确压力调控、流量控制与自动换路，从而稳定复现实验流程，如灌流、再循环、注入与取样等。
**核心技术特性包括：**
- 通过通用适配器实现芯片兼容，可集成多种 OOC 装置
- 支持 Wi-Fi 远程操作与平板应用（Android）
- 云端数据存储，便于监控与实验追踪
- 可编程流体流程，适用于药物、毒素与代谢物等化合物测试
图 3Fluigent 的器官芯片一体化流体平台 Omi
## 基于 Fluigent 系统的器官芯片应用
近年来，多种 OOC 模型快速发展——如肾脏芯片\[2\]\[8\]、肺芯片\[3\]、心脏芯片\[5\]、皮肤芯片\[6\]、胰腺芯片\[7\]与脑芯片\[8\]等。压力控制微流控在其中发挥关键作用，主要体现在：
- 提供可控、定向的流体暴露，更贴近体内灌流
- 构建梯度流场，支持精准给药研究
- 支持多类型细胞共培养与空间层次，重建复杂器官结构
- 利用人源细胞，获得较动物模型更具生理相关性的体系
微流控 OOC 平台正推动个性化医疗与高通量药筛、单细胞分析、细胞互作研究与疾病建模等领域的革新，从而深化对人体生理的理解并助力更有效疗法的开发。
**全球研究团队已广泛采用 Fluigent 的微流控压力控制系统来构建与研究器官芯片模型**
## Omi 用户反馈
“在攻读博士期间，我多次在细胞生物学实验中使用 Omi。就芯片上器官的再循环与灌流而言，Omi 是我用过最简洁易用的工具。所有功能集成在一台设备里，配套无菌耗材也非常易上手，极大降低了污染风险。\[Saut de retour à la ligne\]平板与网页版应用可实时监控实验进程，是一款真正友好、高效的工具。期待用 Omi 开发更多生物学应用！”
Arthur Salles，法国国家科学研究中心（CNRS）LIED 实验室，巴黎大学博士生
## 血管芯片
为解决多路血管芯片（VoC）模型中稳定流场难以复现的问题，Valeria Orlova 团队\[10\]开发了“流体电路板（FCB）”，可用统一控制参数同时灌流多达 12 个三维 VoC。
该系统整合 Fluigent 的 Flow EZ 压力控制器、Link-Up 模块与流量传感器，确保壁面剪切与血流力学条件一致性——这对维持内皮功能与血管完整性至关重要。
这种多路并行思路有助于三维血管模型的规模化与标准化。
图 4： 流体电路板与外部储液瓶在加热模块中的实物图，以及血管芯片的三维重建图。
图 5 流板示意多路三维 VoC 歧管内的流动动画示意
## 肿瘤芯片
Van Gent 团队开发了肿瘤芯片微流控平台（图 6），在受控条件下利用肿瘤组织切片评估患者对治疗的反应\[11\]。其压力控制系统采用 Fluigent 的 MFCS-EZ 高通量平台，可在多达 14 天内维持乳腺癌与前列腺癌 PDX 切片的细胞活性与增殖，并研究了其对顺铂化疗的反应。该平台未来可用于与临床治疗相匹配的患者肿瘤活检研究。
***图 6：（A）肿瘤芯片系统的剖面示意，显示向组织切片的扩散与灌流。（A’）平台连接 Fluigent 微流控流体控制系统与流量传感器（FLOW UNIT-S），并在培养全程由 Fluigent 软件控制。***
## 软骨芯片
Séverine le Gac 团队利用微流控控制系统（MFCS-EZ、2 个开关与一块切换板）构建软骨芯片模型，模拟软骨细胞对外界（机械/化学）刺激的响应，并解析骨关节炎等疾病的诱因\[12\]（图 7）。该装置可对三维细胞培养实施机械刺激并原位监测响应，同时提供动态培养条件。
**图 7： 机械刺激后软骨细胞的形变。**
## 肠道芯片模型
里尔巴斯德研究所的研究人员开发了性价比高、易用的肠道芯片平台——3DP-µGut，旨在扩大 OOC 技术在肠道健康与宿主-病原互作研究中的普及。
与依赖昂贵商用芯片、高阶 CAD 与洁净室的传统 GoC 不同，3DP-µGut 可用常规 SLA 3D 打印机和开源设计文件制造，低成本实现中等通量、成像友好的可重复芯片。
该模型以 Caco-2 细胞验证：7 天后形成三维上皮，逼真模拟原生肠道结构。其开放式设计兼容多种微流控系统，包括验证中使用的 Fluigent Omi 一体化平台与 Flow EZ 压力控制器。
如需了解 GoC 的实施、流体控制策略与宿主-微生物互作建模：
****网络研讨会：流动在器官芯片中的重要性——以肠道芯片为例****
里尔巴斯德研究所专家将展示基于 Omi 自动化平台支持的肠道芯片模型，重点介绍其应用与优势。
[观看回放](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
## 结论
压力控制微流控以精确、稳定且高响应的流体管理能力，成为推动 OOC 研究的关键技术。与其他方式相比，基于压力的系统更能还原生理状态，支持长期细胞活性、提升实验可重复性，并实现复杂流型。无论是模拟血管剪切，还是实现多器官互作，压力控制都能确保 OOC 平台的性能与可靠性。借助 Fluigent 等一体化方案，研究者可为 OOC 实验快速搭建可定制系统。
如需更多信息或技术交流
[联系我们](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
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- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
## 相关技术文档
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 面向高流量控制的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 微流控芯片：工作原理及选型指南
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
## References
1. Leung CM, de Haan P, Ronaldson-Bouchard K, et al. A guide to the organ-on-a-chip. Nat Rev Methods Primers. 2022;2:33. doi:10.1038/s43586-022-00118-6
2. Lee SKJ. Kidney-on-a-Chip: a new technology for predicting drug efficacy, interactions, and drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Curr Drug Metab. 2018;19(7):577–583.
3. Zamprogno P, Wüthrich S, Achenbach S. Second-generation lung-on-a-chip with an array of stretchable alveoli made with a biological membrane. Commun Biol. 2021;4:168.
4. Regmi S, Fu A, Luo K. High shear stresses under exercise condition destroy circulating tumor cells in a microfluidic system. *Sci Rep*. 2017;7:39975. doi:10.1038/srep39975.
5. Liu H, Bolonduro OA, Ning Hu JJ, Rao AA, Duffy BM, Huang Z, et al. Heart-on-a-Chip model with integrated extra- and intracellular bioelectronics for monitoring cardiac electrophysiology under acute hypoxia. Nano Lett. 2020;20(6):2585–2593.
6. Lukács B, Bajza Á, Kocsis D, Csorba A, Antal I, Ivan K, et al. Skin-on-a-Chip device for ex vivo monitoring of transdermal delivery of drugs—design, fabrication, and testing. Pharmaceutics. 2019;11(9):445.
7. Mun KS, Arora K, Huang Y. Patient-derived pancreas-on-a-chip to model cystic fibrosis-related disorders. Nat Commun. 2019;10:3124.
8. Raimondi LI, Tunesi M, Comar M, Albani D, Giordano C, et al. Organ-On-A-Chip in vitro models of the brain and the blood–brain barrier and their value to study the microbiota–gut–brain axis in neurodegeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2020;8:435.
9. Menéndez AC, Du Z, van den Bosch TPP, Othman A, Gaio N, Silvestri C, et al. Creating a kidney organoid vasculature interaction model using a novel organ-on-chip system. Sci Rep. 2022;12(1):20699
10. de Graaf MNS, Vivas A, Kasi DG, van den Hil FE, van den Berg A, van der Meer AD, Mummery CL, Orlova VV. Multiplexed fluidic circuit board for controlled perfusion of 3D blood vessels-on-a-chip. Lab Chip. 2023; 23**:68-181.
11. Chakrabarty S, Quiros-Solano WF, Kuijten MMP, Haspels B, Mallya S, Lo CSY, et al. A microfluidic cancer-on-chip platform predicts drug response using organotypic tumor slice culture. Cancer Res. 2022;82(3):510-520
12. Paggi CA, Hendriks J, Karperien M, Le Gac S. Emulating the chondrocyte microenvironment using multi-directional mechanical stimulation in a cartilage-on-chip. Lap Chip. 2022;22(9):1815-1828
---
### [使用微流控技术在微珠中进行前列腺类器官培养 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/microbead-prostate-organoid-culture/)
**Published:** June 5, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
有关此应用的更多信息，请访问文章：
[Direct transfection of clonal organoids in Matrigel microbeads: a promising approach toward organoid-based genetic screens, *Nucleic Acid Research*, 1–13](https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gky030),
## 什么是前列腺类器官培养？
前列腺类器官培养是一种 3D 细胞培养方法，前列腺细胞在其中自我组织成能够复制腺体组织关键特征的结构。
众所周知，组织和器官是在三维（3D）空间中自我组织的多细胞结构。组织（如腺体组织）内的细胞通过生化和机械信号与邻近细胞和细胞外基质（ECM）相互作用，这些信号维持着生物组织的特异性和体内平衡。
虽然在坚硬表面上进行的传统 2D 培养无法重现体内的细胞行为，但 3D 基质作为细胞培养的载体正变得越来越受欢迎，因为它们能够模拟支持细胞生理功能的复杂环境，从而更好地预测体内反应，进而减少对动物模型的需求。
与无法重现体内细胞行为的传统 2D 培养不同，3D 基质能够模拟支持细胞生理功能的复杂环境。
类器官：
- 维持细胞-细胞和细胞-ECM（细胞外基质）的相互作用
- 重现顶底极性
- 形成含有内腔的腺泡结构
这些特性使得前列腺类器官在研究以下内容时具有高度相关性：
- 前列腺癌的发生和进展
- 组织发育和分化
- 生理学相关模型中的药物反应
*图 1培养 7 天后的前列腺类器官在荧光显微镜下的可视化图像图片由法国格勒诺布尔法国原子能委员会CEA生物微技术与功能基因组学实验室[BIOMICS提供](http://big.cea.fr/drf/big/BGE/BioMics "（BIOMICS）提供")*
*与 [CEA Tech 的技术研究机构 Leti 合作](http://www.leti-cea.fr/cea-tech/leti "CEA Tech 的技术研究机构 Leti 合作")*
## 将类器官作为前列腺癌研究的模型
类器官是模拟支持细胞生理和病理行为的复杂体内环境的相关模型。例如，3D 上皮类器官再现了腺体组织的许多特征，包括发育出完全分化、且保持顶底极性及中空内腔的腺泡。因此，研究人员一直致力于生产前列腺类器官培养物，以更好地理解前列腺癌（PCa）发生和进展的复杂性。
前列腺类器官培养中有效的基因工程将为器官发生和致癌作用提供新的见解，帮助我们破译上皮分化和极性背后的关键基因网络，并使我们更好地了解它们在癌症等病理状态下可能发生的变化。
### 为什么使用微珠进行类器官培养？
微流控系统能够将单细胞封装到均匀的基质胶（Matrigel）微珠中，使每个微珠变成一个独立的微反应器。
**关键优势：**
- 高单分散性 → 标准化的类器官尺寸和形状
- 从单细胞生成克隆类器官
- 减少细胞外基质（ECM）消耗
- 高通量生产（每分钟高达数千个微珠）
- 提高了筛选应用的重现性
### 前列腺类器官的微流控工作流程
该过程通常包括：
1. 使用微流控设备在基质胶微珠中进行单细胞封装
2. 通过压力驱动的流动系统控制微珠的生成
3. 在孵育期间形成类器官
4. 可选的基因修饰（如：电穿孔转染）
此工作流程可精确控制：
- 微珠尺寸
- 细胞分布
- 微环境组成
*图 2A 使用 Fluigent 流量控制器生产基质胶微珠的微流控平台示意图*
*B 孵育 7 天后的前列腺类器官在荧光显微镜下的可视化图像*
*图片由法国格勒诺布尔法国原子能委员会CEA生物微技术与功能基因组学实验室BIOMICS提供*
*与 CEA Tech 的技术研究机构 Leti 合作*
## 克服类器官 3D 转染中的挑战
然而，对已形成的类器官进行直接的 3D 转染仍然具有挑战性。前列腺类器官培养的主要限制之一是在 3D 结构中进行高效的基因传递。
嵌入在 ECM 中的类器官会形成密集的结构，从而：
- 限制试剂的渗透
- 降低转染效率
为了解决这个问题，Laperrousaz, B. 等人（2018年）开发了一种用于 3D 前列腺类器官培养中转基因表达的创新方法，该方法将使用 [Fluigent 微流控设备的](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "Fluigent 微流控设备的")基质胶微珠单细胞封装技术与电穿孔技术相结合。
基于微珠并结合电穿孔的方法已经证实：
- 转染效率高达 80%
- 在 3D 类器官中实现成功的基因表达
该方法为以下领域的深入研究创造了条件：
- 基因功能
- 癌症通路
- 基于类器官的遗传筛选
事实上，他们还验证了 p63 和 PTEN 作为乳腺和前列腺组织腺泡发育关键基因的作用，证实了这种封装和转染方法为**基于流控的高通量遗传筛选和功能基因组学应用开辟了新前景。**
## 基于微珠的类器官培养的主要优势
- 每个微珠都相当于一个微型生物反应器
- **能够进行克隆和标准化的类器官生产**
- 单分散性：高通量（HT）形成受控尺寸、形状、组成和细胞分布的微珠（2000 个微珠/分钟），从而能够生成均匀且“标准化”的类器官。
- 减少 2-3 倍的 ECM 用量。例如，350 µl 的 ECM（一个 LabTek 4 室载玻片孔的体积）可以生成 42,800 个直径为 250 µm 的微珠。这是前列腺类器官培养的一大优势，因为这类组织的局限性之一在于对基质包埋环境的模拟。
- **便于轻松操作和分选**
- 兼容长期冷冻保存
- **支持自动化和高通量工作流程**
### 2D vs. 3D vs. 基于微珠的类器官培养
2D 细胞培养 标准 3D 细胞培养 微珠 3D 细胞培养 生物学相关性 低 高 高 3D 培养可控性 /低 高 操作简便 是 否 是 克隆性 否 否 是 转染效率 高 低 高 长期储存 是 否 是 高通量 是 否 是 成本 低 高 中
## 微珠中前列腺类器官培养的应用
**功能基因组学研究**：受控的类器官生成与微珠中基于 3D iRNA 的电穿孔技术相结合，为基于流控的高通量（HT）遗传筛选和功能基因组学应用打开了新视角。正如前列腺类器官培养一样，通过调节微珠尺寸和 ECM 浓度可以优化转染效率。围绕类器官的 ECM 数量减少，构成了一个有利于转染的包容性 3D 环境。
[阅读文章](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29394376 "阅读文章")。
**组织发育与肿瘤发生研究**：通过在多个发育阶段系统采集含微珠类器官，研究者可对类器官发育动态或肿瘤发生机制开展多组学整合分析（包括转录组、蛋白组、代谢组等层面）。
[阅读全文](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25818441 "阅读全文")。
组织发育和肿瘤发生：在不同阶段收集含微珠的类器官，可以让用户对类器官的发育或癌变进行多组学分析。
[阅读全文](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28927991)。
3D 工具箱：微珠中悬浮的 3D 类器官可以通过大颗粒荧光辅助细胞分选系统轻松吸取、分配和分选。这种基于流控的技术在 3D 培养领域开辟了广阔的应用前景。
[阅读文章](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27497676 "阅读文章")。
用于类器官生成和冷冻保存的设备设置
准备好提高您的类器官重现性和通量了吗？
申请演示以评估微流控流量控制如何实现在微珠中精确、可扩展且可重复地培养前列腺类器官。
[申请演示 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
## 常见问题解答
### 微流控技术如何提高前列腺类器官的重现性？
微流控系统可生成具有受控尺寸和组成的高度单分散微珠。这种均匀性确保了所有类器官具有一致的生长条件，与传统的 3D 培养方法相比，减少了变异性。
### 微珠中的类器官可用于遗传学研究吗？
是的。基于微珠的类器官培养结合电穿孔等技术，能够实现高效的基因传递。这使得研究人员能够在生理学相关的 3D 模型中进行功能基因组学研究并探究基因功能。
### 与 2D 细胞培养相比，3D 类器官培养有哪些优势？
与 2D 培养相比，3D 类器官通过保留组织结构和细胞相互作用，能更好地模拟体内环境。这可以在疾病建模和药物筛选中提供更具预测性的结果。
### 基于微珠的类器官培养适合高通量筛选吗？
是的。微流控平台每分钟可生产数千个微珠，使其成为高通量筛选、药物发现和大规模功能分析的理想选择。
### 为什么要使用类器官而不是动物模型？
类器官通过保留组织结构、细胞相互作用和遗传特征，能更好地复制人类特异性的生物学机制。它们能为药物反应提供更具预测性的结果，减少伦理顾虑，并能从患者源细胞中生成，用于个性化研究。
### 为什么类器官转染很困难？
类器官嵌入在致密的细胞外基质（ECM）中并形成紧凑的 3D 结构，这限制了转染试剂的渗透。这种物理屏障再加上细胞的异质性，导致其效率低于 2D 培养。
科学参考文献
图片由法国格勒诺布尔法国原子能委员会（CEA）生物微技术与功能基因组学实验室（[BIOMICS](http://big.cea.fr/drf/big/BGE/BioMics "BIOMICS")）提供
[与 CEA Tech 的技术研究机构 Leti 合作 ](http://www.leti-cea.fr/cea-tech/leti "与 CEA Tech 的技术研究机构 Leti 合作 ")
芯片上的类器官（Organoids-on-Chip）项目已获得欧盟 H2020 研究与创新计划（项目编号：766884）的资助（[阅读更多](https://h2020-orchid.eu/ "阅读更多")）。
## 专业知识与资源
- [
### 技术在高级类器官模型中的作用：从静态到动态
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
- [
### 微流控流体控制技术：为可靠结果选择合适的泵
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
- [
### 在器官芯片研究中的为流体压力控制
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## 相关微流控解决方案
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
References
\[1\] Laperrousaz, B., Porte, S., Gerbaud, S., Ville, H., Gidrol, X., Hourtane, V., & Picollet-D’hahan, N. (2018). [Direct transfection of clonal organoids in Matrigel microbeads: a promising approach toward organoid-based genetic screens](https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gky030), *Nucleic Acid Research*, 1–13.
\[2\] Dolega, M. E., Abeille, F., Picollet-D’hahan, N., & Gidrol, X. (2015). [Biomaterials Controlled 3D culture in Matrigel microbeads to analyze clonal acinar development](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.02.042). *Biomaterials*, *52*, 347–357.
\[3\] Picollet-D’hahan, N., Dolega, M. E., Freida, D., Martin, D. K., & Gidrol, X. (2017). [Deciphering Cell Intrinsic Properties: A Key Issue for Robust Organoid Production](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tibtech.2017.08.003). *Trends in Biotechnology*, *35* (11), 1035–1048.
\[4\] Picollet-D’hahan, N., Dolega, M. E., Liguori, L., Marquette, C., Le Gac, S., Gidrol, X., & Martin, D. K. (2016). [A 3D Toolbox to Enhance Physiological Relevance of Human Tissue Models](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tibtech.2016.06.012). *Trends in Biotechnology*, 1–13.
---
### [优化微流控灌流：最佳实践与新进展 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/)
**Published:** October 13, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 什么是微流控灌流
定义“微流控灌流”，并将其与一般的连续流区分：
灌流”通常指将液体通过某一结构（如组织或通道）受控地输送，该术语主要源自医学领域。在微流控中，灌流是指液体在微米级通道内的连续流动，常用于指代组织或反应区的流体输运。\[1\]\[2\]
随着该领域不断发展，微流控灌流在活细胞分析、器官芯片平台以及单分子检测等高灵敏度分析中发挥着关键作用。无论采用连续、并行还是连续灌流，都必须精确控制流体动力学参数——如流速、层流/湍流状态以及流向。
*表1 微流控灌流在生命科学研究中的相关性*
应用领域 用途 **器官芯片 /
动态细胞培养** 持续灌流培养基以复现生理相关的流动条件，包括剪切力、营养和氧气交换以及代谢废物清除，从而模拟体内微环境。 **活细胞成像
长时程显微观察** 在成像过程中持续供给营养和试剂，以维持细胞活性并实现对细胞过程的实时观察。 **药物响应测试** 以动态方式给药与取样，评估细胞对剂量的依赖性响应，支持高通量筛选与毒理评价。 **灌流生物反应器与细胞分选** 放大体系采用连续灌流来制备生物试剂（细胞、DNA、外泌体）并进行分选与质量控制。
与静态培养相比，在器官芯片中，灌流可营造更接近体内的微环境。通过减少人工干预和环境波动，灌流可提供无菌而稳定的条件，从而支持长周期实验，如活细胞成像、钙转运监测和药物测试。灌流体系能在较长时间内提升细胞活性，并实现对多种化合物的精准、定量暴露。
*图1 器官芯片系统中的微流控灌流示意（开环与闭环，即循环）*
## 微流控灌流的最佳实践
高效灌流依赖于合适的（微流控芯片）材料、精确的通道结构以及与目标生物/化学应用相匹配的设计策略的综合集成。
### 基于应用需求选择材料
根据具体应用，**微流控芯片**材料需要综合考虑力学性能、化学相容性和气体渗透性等因素，并针对性地优化。这些选择应以研究目标和所需生物模型为导向。
**常见微流控芯片材料：**
- *PDMS（聚二甲基硅氧烷）：因其良好的气体渗透性常用于供氧，但会吸附小分子疏水物质，可能影响药物毒理学实验的准确性\[3\]。*
- *玻璃与热塑性材料（如PMMA、COC）：通常化学惰性、低吸附，适用于要求极低浸出和吸附的应用。*
- *水凝胶：作为全柔性微流控系统的生物相容支架材料逐渐兴起，尤其适合组织仿生和三维培养环境*
人体各组织在功能与形态上差异显著，因此仿生模型需据此选择材料。例如，模拟骨组织（杨氏模量约20 GPa）与模拟脑组织（约2 kPa）所需材料差别很大\[5\]\[6\]。低氧环境更适合采用玻璃或低渗透性的热塑材料；软组织建模更适合柔性膜或水凝胶。
除材料本身外，还可通过表面改性来提升生物功能适配性：
- *提升细胞黏附：涂覆ECM蛋白（如纤连蛋白、胶原）。*
- *抑制非特异吸附：PEG化、BSA涂层或其他防污涂层\[7\]。*
- *等离子体氧化或化学官能化可提高表面亲水性与润湿性。*
### 优化芯设计与尺寸
通道设计会影响微流控体系中的流体动力学与细胞响应。微环境结构决定细胞所感知的力学信号\[8\]；通道尺寸与体积会影响试剂的扩散及随后的生物学相互作用。
- **[剪切力](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/ "剪切力")**会影响细胞形态、迁移与基因表达等关键过程。设定流动条件时需结合通道几何与流速，[使剪切力](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/) 接近体内水平（通常1–20 dyn/cm²，视细胞类型而定）。
- **灌流通道尺寸影响试剂扩散与暴露时间**。尽管扩散参与分子运输，但在灌流实验中主导细胞响应的通常是**试剂对流**\[9\]。精确控制通道尺寸与流速，可确保细胞获得明确的浓度与时间梯度。通道尺寸的波动会改变流速与停留时间，导致供给不一致或扩散占主导，从而削弱浓度梯度并降低实验重现性。以灌流优化为目标进行通道设计，有助于获得可重复的细胞响应，这对定量生物学实验至关重要。
- 良好密封对维持受控流体环境至关重要。未封闭接口、层间粘接不良或膜未覆盖等都会引发泄漏，造成非期望流路、交叉污染或试剂损失，扰乱流体动力学。因此需建立泄漏检测与预防方案。采用合适胶黏剂、键合工艺或机械夹具的精密密封可保障装置完整性，尤其在多层或共培养芯片中空间隔离至关重要。良好密封还能避免空气进入，从而有助于无菌操作并减少气泡形成。
**！微流控芯片使用提示：**
使用商用芯片或流通池时，应校准系统参数，并充分考虑材料的光学、化学与物理特性。例如，PDMS会吸附小分子疏水物，影响给药精度；而基于水凝胶的芯片可能存在膜渗漏或形变问题，在灌流前就会影响无菌与密封性
### 避免气泡以保证均匀流动
气泡会干扰连续流。在三维细胞培养中可造成细胞损伤；在分析中会破坏流场均一性。
- **温度稳定：**温度波动会促使溶解气体成核形成气泡；例如升高数摄氏度即可显著降低气体溶解度，从而诱发起泡\[10\]。
- **防泡策略包括**：使用前对培养基脱气；在系统中加入捕泡器或在线脱气膜，拦截并清除可能影响灌流的气泡；在芯片层面集成捕泡/脱气结构，可在气泡到达敏感培养区域前将其物理去除。
*图2 微流道内气泡成核的热成像*
### 为流量控制选择合适的灌流泵
泵的与控制方式的选择取决于明确的技术指标。常见用于微流控灌流的设备包括：
- 压力驱动泵可提供精确、可编程且响应迅速的微流体控制，适合要求稳定、低脉冲的敏感应用；其稳定性有助于维持层流，对复现体内剪切应力尤为关键。
- 注射泵可实现恒流（典型精度约0.25%），但更换/补装注射器会中断流动并引入流量脉冲，可能影响敏感细胞或反应。
- 蠕动泵虽易用，但先天产生脉动流，可能对细胞造成应激并增加定量实验的复杂性，对细胞存活率影响显著。
[这里有一篇关于流体控制技术的综合综述](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/ "这里有一篇关于流体控制技术的综合综述")
除选择合适的灌流技术外，定期校准与清洁同样重要。例如，生物膜沉积在流量传感器上会引起流量漂移；即便是很小的流速偏差，也会显著改变剪切力与细胞响应，从而影响数据可靠性。
*图3 压力泵与注射泵的性能对比*
## 微流控连续流的创新
### 自动化多路复用系统
用于微流控多路复用的创新方法，旨在精确管理多种输入与试剂，并保障并行通道中的稳定分配。在可控多端口的压力驱动系统中，通过定制歧管可以实现试剂的并行输送与培养基的循环回路。
为实现最多10种试剂的序贯输送，可使用Aria对芯片进行多试剂灌流，其配套软件支持自动试剂注入。
*图4 基于3D-VoC模型的流路板自动化示意*
### 集成式实时传感
芯片内或在线传感器（光学/电化学探头或用于炎症标志物的生物传感器等）正用于分析与测量实验结果。闭环控制使传感器能够实时监测培养环境，并据此自动调节灌流参数，确保稳定的生理条件，有利于细胞健康与结果重现性。举例来说，有研究开发了嵌入式微流控光学传感阵列，用于监测流动培养基中的pH与溶解氧，从而在灌流过程中动态校正至设定点\[11\]。
*图5 光子传感器集成组织芯片（a. 工作原理示意；b. 分层爆炸图；c. 顶视与外形尺寸）*
### 器官芯片培养基灌流
随着器官芯片的普及，相关技术不断适配以满足不同模型的生理需求。闭环循环灌流带来诸多益处：保障无菌、支持长期循环、降低试剂成本，并可富集目标分泌组分。
连续微流控灌流系统——[如Fluigent的Omi平台](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "如Fluigent的Omi平台")——通过精确、可编程的流控来复现组织特异性环境，维持屏障完整性、组织结构与长期活性；可支持重复给药和长期培养，提升药筛的预测能力。TissUse的压力装置则用于其自研器官芯片的流体操控。
[进一步了解Omi器官芯片流体平台的能力](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "进一步了解Omi器官芯片流体平台的能力")
*图6 明场显微镜下的Omi系统*
## 微流控灌流的发展趋势
**微流控灌流正从单体系统走向高度集成、智能化与可扩展的平台。展望未来，以下趋势将推动行业变革：**
- **复杂多器官集成与闭环系统：**“多器官体芯片”生态将兴起：通过互联的组织芯片网络模拟全身生理互作；并可能结合无管路歧管接口，以降低泄漏和起泡风险。
- **新材料与增材制造：**智能聚合物与3D打印的进步将支持更复杂的定制几何结构，覆盖更广的生物力学模拟与流体控制场景。
- **监管推进与标准化：**\]随着灌流微生理系统（如器官芯片）获得监管认可，标准化平台将进入药物研发流程。美国《FDA现代化法案2.0》纳入器官芯片的使用，为其研究成果向临床转化铺平了道路。
****仍需解决若干挑战：持续创新的重点方向：****
- **气泡形成与流动稳定性：**气泡成核问题仍然突出；需要更高效的脱气技术与实时气泡检测。
- 长期无菌与系统鲁棒性：长周期实验需要封闭体系、有效过滤、可靠密封与冗余设计，以防微生物污染。
- 制造放大与成本：从实验室原型走向商业化，需要耐用、易用且性价比高的系统——可通过模块化与可重构单元来实现。
***未来愿景：****随着上述趋势与解决方案的融合，微流控灌流系统将演进为智能、可靠、易获取的工具；其应用将从专业实验室扩展至主流生物医学研究、药物开发与个性化医疗，推动体外模型迈入更动态、更贴近生理的新阶段。*
## Related Solutions
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### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
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### 在器官芯片研究中的为流体压力控制
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
## References
1. Horowitz LF, Rodriguez AD, Ray T, et al. Microfluidics for interrogating live intact tissues. Microsystems & Nanoengineering. 2020;6:69. doi:10.1038/s41378-020-0164-0 [nature.com](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41378-020-0164-0)
2. Hattori K, Sugiura S, Kanamori T. Pressure-driven microfluidic perfusion culture device for integrated dose-response assays. J Lab Autom. 2013 Dec;18(6):437–45. doi:10.1177/2211068213503155 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24014544/)
3. Sønstevold L, Koza P, Czerkies M, Andreassen E, McMahon P, Vereshchagina E, et al. Prototyping in polymethylpentene to enable oxygen-permeable on-a-chip cell culture and organ-on-a-chip devices suitable for microscopy. Micromachines. 2024;15(7):898. doi:10.3390/mi15070898 [doi.org](https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15070898)
4. Nie J, Fu J, He Y. Hydrogels: The next generation body materials for microfluidic chips? Small. 2020 Nov;16(46):e2003797. doi:10.1002/smll.202003797 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103353/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
5. Rho JY, Ashman RB, Turner CH. Young’s modulus of trabecular and cortical bone material: ultrasonic and microtensile measurements. J Biomech. 1993;26(2):111–19. doi:10.1016/0021-9290(93)90042-D [researchgate.net](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387715355_EMG-Based_Variable_Impedance_Control_for_Enhanced_Haptic_Feedback_in_Real-Time_Material_Recognition?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
6. Budday S, Nay R, de Rooij R, Steinmann P, Wyrobek T, Ovaert TC, et al. Mechanical properties of gray and white matter brain tissue by indentation. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater. 2015;46:318–30. doi:10.1016/j.jmbbm.2015.02.024 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25819199/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
7. Choi Y, Tran H-V, Lee TR. Self-assembled monolayer coatings on gold and silica surfaces for antifouling applications: a review. Coatings. 2022;12(10):1462. doi:10.3390/coatings12101462 [mdpi.com](https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6412/12/10/1462?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
8. Sun B, Xie K, Chen T-H, Lam RHW. Preferred cell alignment along concave microgrooves. RSC Adv. 2017;7:6788–94. doi:10.1039/c6ra26545f [pubs.rsc.org](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2017/ra/c6ra26545f?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
9. Huber D, Oskooei A, Casadevall i Solvas X, de Mello AJ, Kaigala GV. Hydrodynamics in cell studies. Chem Rev. 2018;118(4):2042–79. doi:10.1021/acs.chemrev.7b00317 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29420889/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
10. Pereiro I, Fomitcheva Khartchenko AF, Petrini L, Kaigala GV. Nip the bubble in the bud: a guide to avoid gas nucleation in microfluidics. Lab Chip. 2019;19(14):2296–2314. doi:10.1039/c9lc00211a [pubs.rsc.org](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2019/lc/c9lc00211a?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
11. Azimzadeh M, Khashayar P, Amereh M, Tasnim N, Hoorfar M, Akbari M. Microfluidic-based oxygen (O₂) sensors for on-chip monitoring of cell, tissue and organ metabolism. Biosensors. 2021 Dec 22;12(1):6. doi:10.3390/bios12010006 [pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8774018/)
---
### [10 条实现可靠液滴生成的技巧 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/10-tips-for-droplet-generation/)
**Published:** November 12, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 引言：掌握基于液滴的微流控
**基于液滴的微流控是**一个多功能应用领域，利用不可混溶的两相流来生成和操控小体积、离散的液体单元。\[1\] 自 Thorsen 等人在近二十年前首次探索起、并由 H. Stone、D. Weitz、P. Tabeling 等人进一步发展以来，该技术已能稳定地形成尺寸与形状均一的液滴，相较于传统方法（喷雾干燥、离心成滴、超声雾化或体相混合）具有显著优势。\[2\]
能够批量制备高度均一的液滴，并在其中包封细胞、生物分子和其他材料，使液滴微流控成为药物发现、酶动力学、单细胞测序与组合合成等领域的重要工具。它同样支撑芯片实验室技术，推动个性化医疗、诊断、细胞培养、组织工程与药物递送等方向的发展。\[3-7\]
尽管潜力巨大，但在稳定性、单分散性以及操作过程中的样品完整性方面仍会遇到挑战。本文提供 10 条核心建议，帮助你更高效地生成液滴、减少排障、并改进成滴表现。
## 1- 为液滴生成选择合适的微流控芯片设计
**微流控芯片的结构设计**是控制液滴尺寸与顺利成滴的基础。以下为常见结构（图 1）：\[8\]
- **同轴结构：**连续相在三维通道中包围分散相，便于获得均一液滴并更好地控制成滴，但加工工艺更复杂。\[9\]
- **并流（Co-flow）结构：**分散相在内毛细管内流动，尺寸可控，制造难度低于同轴结构。\[10\]
- **流体聚焦结构：**对向流在狭窄收缩处实现液滴“捏断”，成滴稳定，但制造相对更复杂。\[11-12\]
- **交叉流结构：**两相在 T 形结处相遇，适合低流速与获得较均一液滴，但精细度不及部分其他结构。\[2\]
- **台阶乳化结构：**分散相通过通道突宽处成滴，适合高通量与单分散生成。\[13\]
**图 1液滴生成的结构形式a毛细管并流b毛细管流体聚焦c并流与聚焦组合d交叉流e平面流体聚焦f台阶乳化8引自 Nan L 等Lab Chip 24 11351153 2024**
几何结构的选择取决于所需的液滴均一性、通量与制造复杂度。并流与交叉流等简单结构易于加工；同轴与台阶乳化虽更复杂，但通常提供更好的控制与精度。
了解 Secoya Technologies 的 RayDrop：将并流与流体聚焦相结合，并配备可更换喷嘴，便于在单重与双重乳液间灵活切换。
## 2- 为微流控芯片选择合适材料
[材料选择](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/ "材料选择")会影响器件性能、加工复杂度与可扩展性。主要材料分三类：\[14\]
- **无机材料（玻璃与硅）**：化学相容性、机械刚性与光学透明度优异；但成本高、加工难（通常需光刻与湿法刻蚀）。玻璃器件可清洗复用。\[9\]
- **弹性体（PDMS）：**成本低、制备便捷、柔性好。通常用软光刻成型，并可与玻璃或 PDMS 层键合。但其耐溶剂性较差，限制了某些应用；且易吸附小分子疏水物，可能降低待测物浓度或引入干扰
- **热塑性材料（PMMA、PC、PS、PVC、COC）：**可通过注塑或热压实现规模化生产。小批量制作常靠微加工，分辨率不及光刻。部分热塑性材料与弹性体也可 3D 打印，但分辨率有差异。\[14,16\]
*最佳材料取决于应用：玻璃/硅精度高但昂贵；PDMS 灵活易制备；热塑性材料便于量产，但小特征尺寸分辨率较低。*
******表 1：无机材料、弹性体与热塑性材料特性 \[14\]（改编自 Elvira, K.S. 等；Lab. Chip 22, 859–875 (2022)）******
****属性**** ****无机材料**
**（玻璃、硅）**** ****弹性体(PDMS)**** ****热塑性材料(PMMA, PTFE)**** ****化学相容性**** 高 中 中上 ****热稳定性**** 高 中 变化不易 ****表面亲水性**** 亲水 通常疏水 通常疏水 ****物理成形**** 激光刻蚀、微加工 化学刻蚀 模塑 微加工、模塑、激光刻蚀、3D 打印 ****制备时间**** 长（流程复杂） 中（取决于模塑或 3D 打印） 中（取决于工艺复杂度） ****成本**** 高（专用设备与流程） 中（材料相对便宜，但模塑与 3D 打印成本不一） 中（取决于材料与工艺复杂度
进一步了解如何**[选择合适的微流控芯片](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/ "选择合适的微流控芯片")**，并深入探索**微加工流程**的细节。
## 3- 控制润湿与表面处理
流体与通道表面的相互作用决定哪一相为连续相、哪一相为分散相。通道微小且比表面积高时，界面效应主导流动行为。可通过材料选择或表面改性加以调控：
- **材料选择：**选用合适表面性质的材料以获得期望润湿（见表 1）。亲水表面优先润湿水相，利于形成油包水；疏水表面适合水包油。接触角是决定成滴类型的重要因素；超过临界接触角会倾向形成某一类液滴。\[14, 16-20\]
- **表面改性：**当本征表面性质不理想时，可采用等离子体、氧化、硅烷化等方法调节。玻璃经处理后可同时适配油包水与水包油；PDMS 常需处理以维持长期成滴所需的表面性质。\[21-23\]
*合理的材料选择与表面处理（如等离子体、氧化、硅烷化）是实现稳定、可控成滴的关键。*
## 4- 使用表面活性剂稳定液滴
表面活性剂（乳化剂）是两亲分子，可稳定流体-流体界面并短暂改变通道表面。通过更换活性剂，无需额外表面改性即可在同一装置中生成水包油或油包水液滴。\[24\]
- **作用：**常见活性剂包括阴离子类（如 SDS）与非离子类（如 Span 80、Tween 20、PEG）。它们通过短暂改变表面化学来稳定液滴（见表 2）。\[25\]
- **加入位置：**可加入分散相或连续相。加入连续相时，活性剂会迁移至通道/流体界面并形成涂层。常见做法是在引入分散相前先用连续相对装置进行预润。\[25,26\]
**表面活性剂既可稳定液滴、又能暂时改性通道表面，从而实现对成滴过程的精确控制。**
***表 2：表面活性剂类型及其特性概述。\[27,28\]***
******类型****** ******特性****** ******例子****** ******阴离子型****** ***亲水基带强负电荷***
*刺激性与急性毒性潜力较高*月桂基硫酸钠（SLS）
十二烷基硫酸钠（SDS） ******阳离子型****** ***亲水基带强正电荷***
常用于化妆品 硬脂铵盐类
*苯扎铵*
季铵盐，如十六烷基三甲基溴化铵（CTAB） ******两性型****** ***兼具负电与正电***
最终电荷取决于 pH
较温和、刺激性低 羟基内盐类
椰油基甜菜碱
月桂基甜菜碱 ******非离子型****** 亲水基不带电荷
常用于药物递送、生物检测与食品乳化 聚乙二醇 *PEGs*
山梨坦类
聚山梨醇酯
吐温与司盘
**图 2不同结构的表面活性剂28 引自 Perelomov L 等Sustainability 16 4804 2024**
## 5- 通过压力控制器提升稳定性
精确流量控制对可靠的成滴至关重要。液滴的尺寸与单分散性直接取决于流量精度，因而**选择合适的流控方式**会显著影响**微滴结果质量**：
- 注射泵：机械驱动，易产生脉动误差，流量控制精度受限，导致液滴尺寸不一致，反应器体积难以重复
- 基于压力的流量控制器：提供高精度流控、快速响应与连续监测，可消除注射泵常见的脉动误差并保持液滴尺寸一致性。
**图 3压力控制器与注射泵在精度方面的比较**
*在微流控成滴中，[压力控制器](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "压力控制器")相较注射泵更可靠一致；其精确、无脉动的输送有助于获得更高重复性。*
*了解压力控制器与注射泵在成滴方面差异的更多信息。*
- [
### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
## 6- 通过流量比优化单分散性
在微流控成滴中，惯性与黏性力的平衡影响液滴尺寸与一致性。相性质与流量等关键参数直接决定液滴的尺寸、形状与结构。毛细数（Ca）尤为重要，可描述流量调整对成滴的影响。\[29,30\]
- 各相流量与囊体尺寸：分散相（Qd）与连续相（Qc）流量直接关联囊体尺寸。在 Qd 不变时增加 Qc 可减小囊体；Qd/Qc 比是优化尺寸与单分散性的关键。
- 双重乳液与壳层厚度控制：在双乳系统中，通过调节流量可同时控制囊体尺寸与壳层厚度。例如，提高 Qd（壳层相流量）可增厚壳层而不改变囊体尺寸。
*图 4在提高连续相Qc流量时液滴直径的变化基于 Secoya Technologies 开发的 RayDrop 研究*
*图 5壳层厚度随壳层相流量的变化基于 RayDrop 的研究*
*优化分散相与连续相的流量比是获得一致尺寸与单分散性的关键。精细调节这些比值可提升成滴的重复性与精度。*
## 7- 实时监测与排障
实时监测有助于及时发现并解决问题，确保结果一致准确。借助流量实时控制软件与高速相机等工具，可持续跟踪关键参数并即时调整。
- 高速相机：与显微镜集成的高速相机可实时观察成滴过程，便于检查液滴尺寸、均一性及潜在的堵塞或不稳定。
- Fluigent Oxygen 软件：支持对流量进行精确的实时控制与监测，可快速调整以维持最佳成滴条件，并提供压力、流量与系统性能等关键数据。
使用上述工具进行实时监控对顺畅成滴至关重要。通过即时发现与排障，可在整个实验过程中保持一致结果并优化性能。
## 8- 避免气泡以保持系统稳定
**微流控系统中的气泡**会扰乱流动稳定性、影响响应时间，甚至引起堵塞，导致结果不可靠。气泡来源包括溶解气体、泄漏或 PDMS 等材料的气体渗透性（空气可透过器件壁扩散）。为保持实验顺畅可重复，必须尽量避免产气泡。\[31\]
- 理解气泡成因：液体中的溶解气体、多孔材料或系统加样不当均可致气泡。PDMS 等材料具有气体可渗性，空气可逐渐在微通道中累积。
- 预防策略：使用前对溶液脱气、选择低渗透材料并采用亲水处理可降低产泡；配置捕泡器或在线脱气器可进一步确保系统无气泡。
*在微流控系统中防止气泡是维持稳定可靠流动的关键。通过脱气、选材与捕泡等手段，可显著减少干扰并提升实验准确性。*
## 9- 通过集成配套工具优化微流控系统
配备实用工具可提升系统效率、精度与操作便捷性。集成流体控制阀实现精准进样、根据交联方式优化系统、并使用紫外交联模块，有助于获得更好的包封与稳定性。
- 阀控便捷操作：如 Fluigent L-Switch 等工具可实现微小体积的精准注入，尤其适合稀有或敏感细胞（如干细胞或患者来源样本），既能高效管理有限样品、减少浪费，又能提升实验可控性。
- 针对交联方式优化系统：微囊壳层对保护与功能至关重要。应根据包封工艺匹配相应交联方式：
- 物理固化：明胶、海藻酸盐、壳聚糖等天然高分子可在 pH、温度或离子强度变化下固化。\[29,30,32\]
- 紫外交联：聚丙烯酰胺、聚苯乙烯、聚乙二醇二丙烯酸酯（PEGDA）等合成聚合物可通过紫外或加热交联。PEGDA 具有可调特性，适合生物医学应用。\[33-35\]
例如，可考虑使用紫外交联模块，通过紫外照射实现聚合物交联；可调节的管路倾角便于收集、减少并滴，从而获得更佳包封效果。
*通过阀控进样、针对不同交联方法优化系统并使用紫外交联模块，可提升微流控实验的精度、重复性与效率。这些工具可改进样品处理、稳定包封并获得高质量微囊。*
了解我们的液滴生成平台。
- [
### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
## 10- 保持系统清洁并采用合适清洗流程
洁净的系统对防止堵塞与污染、并在实验中保持一致流动至关重要。合理过滤、规范清洗与维护是确保顺畅运行与可重复结果的关键
- 预过滤与在线过滤：将溶液引入系统前务必过滤以去除可能堵塞通道的颗粒；在回路中加入在线过滤器可实时拦截进入系统的杂质，避免在实验过程中造成阻塞。
- 遵循清洗流程并高效疏堵：根据所用化学品制定清洗方案，定期清洁防止积垢与污染。若发生堵塞（特别是玻璃器件），可通过反向冲洗来清除阻塞，恢复通道功能且不损伤装置。
作为清洁配件的示例，可参见本方案中***[清洗流量计单元的方法](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cleaning-procedure-flow-units/ "清洗流量计单元的方法")***。
## 结论
在微流控实验中，实现可靠、可重复且顺畅的成滴有赖于精确控制。通过优化流量、防止污染并集成合适工具，可提升结果并简化流程。请大胆尝试并微调系统，以获得最佳性能。
如需更进一步的控制，请关注 Fluigent 的精确流量管理方案与 Secoya Technologies 的 RayDrop 高级成滴技术。我们的方案可助你将实验提升到新水平。
👉 准备好升级您的液滴生成系统了吗？请联系我们的专家或探索我们的微流体压力控制系统。
[联系专家 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
## 相关专业领域
[进一步探索我们的液滴相关产品和解决方案](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
[用于液滴生成的微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 微流控在药物递送中的应用：精准医学新时代
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-drug-delivery/)
- [
### 微流控微滴生成方法
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e6%8e%a7%e5%be%ae%e6%bb%b4%e7%94%9f%e6%88%90%e6%96%b9%e6%b3%95/)
- [
### 微流控芯片：工作原理及选型指南
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
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33\. Hakim Khalili, M. *et al.* Additive Manufacturing and Physicomechanical Characteristics of PEGDA Hydrogels: Recent Advances and Perspective for Tissue Engineering. *Polymers* **15**, 2341 (2023).
34\. Sun, X. *et al.* Facile fabrication of drug-loaded PEGDA microcapsules for drug evaluation using droplet-based microchip. *Chin. Chem. Lett.* **33**, 2697–2700 (2022).
35\. Polymers | Free Full-Text | Additive Manufacturing and Physicomechanical Characteristics of PEGDA Hydrogels: Recent Advances and Perspective for Tissue Engineering. (2024).
---
### [微流体博客](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/)
**Published:** March 11, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### 微流控微滴生成方法
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e6%8e%a7%e5%be%ae%e6%bb%b4%e7%94%9f%e6%88%90%e6%96%b9%e6%b3%95/)
- [
### 细胞与组织的微吸技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/micropipette-aspiration/)
- [
### 微流控技术概述：发展历程与定义
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/what-is-microfluidics/)
- [
### 微流控芯片：工作原理及选型指南
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [
### 为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 微流控在药物递送中的应用：精准医学新时代
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-drug-delivery/)
- [
### 在器官芯片研究中的为流体压力控制
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
- [
### 优化微流控灌流：最佳实践与新进展
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/)
- [
### 10 条实现可靠液滴生成的技巧
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/10-tips-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 微流控流体控制技术：为可靠结果选择合适的泵
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
- [
### 微流控自动化：实时监测与反馈回路
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/automation-in-microfluidics/)
- [
### 使用牺牲油壳法在海藻酸盐微珠中进行微流控细胞球包裹
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/case-studies/spheroid-encapsulation/)
- [
### 技术在高级类器官模型中的作用：从静态到动态
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
- [
### 使用微流控技术在微珠中进行前列腺类器官培养
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microbead-prostate-organoid-culture/)
- [
### 现代药物开发与测试中的器官芯片平台
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/organ-on-chip-in-drug-development/)
---
### [应用与专业专长](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/)
**Published:** February 16, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
微流控技术（Microfluidics）是指研究微米尺度下流体流动的科学，它代表了一整套在数十至数百微米尺度上操控流体与材料的技术工具。Fluigent 是首家将压力驱动流量控制技术引入微流控研究市场的企业，区别于传统的注射泵和蠕动泵。作为微流控领域的先驱，我们确立了微流控控制的技术标准，并致力于始终走在科学前沿。
我们围绕微流控的核心概念、物理原理与基础知识、微流控系统的组成要素、压力式流量控制器相较于传统方法的优势，以及在器官芯片、细胞培养、微胶囊化、液滴与颗粒生成等应用领域的实验研究，创作了丰富的专业内容。此外，您还将了解到微流控细胞生物学领域最新、最具创新性的技术，以及可供科学界参考的对比研究成果。
## 查看全部专业博文
[**阅读更多**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/)
## 查看全部应用指南
[**阅读更多**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/application-notes/)
## 微流控客户案例研究
[**阅读更多**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/case-studies/)
---
### [为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/why-control-shear-stress/)
**Published:** August 11, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
[阅读完整专业评论（英文版)](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-review-why-is-it-important-to-control-shear-stress.pdf)
[使用我们的剪切应力计算器](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
## 剪切应力的物理定义
剪切应力是在表面上施加的切向力。流体剪切应力取决于流体的速度和粘度。因此，在牛顿流体的情况下，它可以简化为以下方程式：
τ = η \* (∂v/∂z)
其中 η 是粘度（g/cm·s = 泊），∂v/∂z 是速度梯度或剪切速率（s⁻¹）。
在层流微流控通道中，速度分布呈抛物线形。通道中心速度最大，通道壁速度最小，因此通道壁处的剪切应力最高，而通道中心的剪切应力最低。（图 1）
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2025/08/cn-flow-velocity-shear-rate-distribution-of-laminar-flow.jpg)**图 1圆形通道内层流的流速分布左和剪切速率分布右示意图**
使用[我们的剪切应力计算器](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/ "我们的剪切应力计算器")来确定您的实验参数：设置系统中要施加的流速或压力、微流控芯片的尺寸和管路长度，以在流动条件下为您的细胞培养施加正确可控的剪切应力。
## 剪切应力对细胞的影响
在常见的体外实验中，细胞在培养皿中培养且不引入介质流动，这是一种不完整的模型，无法全面体现细胞行为。在生物体内，细胞持续暴露于流体运动产生的剪切应力中，在体外系统中引入剪切应力至关重要，原因包括：
- **机械刺激：** 流体流动产生机械刺激，促进细胞沿流动方向伸长——尤其是在内皮细胞和其他贴壁细胞培养中（图 2）\[1\]
- **内皮细胞反应：** 内皮细胞对剪切应力尤为敏感，会发生细胞骨架重构\[2\]，这一反应有助于维持血管稳态，并影响血管生成和血管重塑等过程\[3\]
- **癌细胞动力学：** 在癌症研究中，剪切应力被认为促进转移级联过程，如细胞外渗和间质迁移。研究发现在管腔流动下，肿瘤细胞的平均血内运动速度约为12.5 μm/h，而在静态条件下约为9.4 μm/h\[4\]。
- **提高生理相关性和精确性：** 与轨道流动相比，在层流条件下培养的人脐静脉内皮细胞（HUVECs）表现出更具生理相关性的组织因子表达\[5\]。
- **组织特异性剪切应力：** 不同组织体验到不同的生理剪切应力水平，在设计和模拟体外实验时需要加以考虑。
*图 2 剪切应力下细胞形态和组织结构的变化*
细胞类型 剪切力值 (Pa) 剪切力值 (dyn/cm2) 动脉 \[6\] 1-210-20静脉\[6\] 0.1 -0.61-6小鼠胚胎肾 \[7\] 0.04 – 0.50.4 – 5人肾脏\[8\] 0.03 -0.120.3 -1.2肺泡上皮细胞\[9\] 0.4 -1.54 -15
\*更多数值请下载完整[专家Review ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-review-why-is-it-important-to-control-shear-stress.pdf "专家Review ")## 如何在细胞微生理系统中控制剪切应力
随着微流控技术的发展，实现了对流速和微通道几何形状的精确控制，研究人员能够微调施加于细胞的剪切应力。早期研究表明，特定水平的剪切应力可影响内皮细胞的结构和功能\[10\]。
在过去20年中，微流控技术的进步加深了我们对这些效应的理解。近年来，功能组织在微流控芯片中培养的器官芯片模型的发展表明，受控的机械刺激对于调节细胞行为以及对病原体和药物的响应至关重要\[11\]。
****控制剪切应力的关键变量包括：****
- **精确的流速控制：** 在长时间内保持稳定且可重复的流速，以确保一致的剪切应力暴露。
- **微通道几何形状：** 微通道的形状、宽度和高度直接影响细胞所受剪切应力的分布。
- **流体粘度：** 培养基的粘度影响剪切应力。BSA含量、化学添加剂和温度的变化都会影响培养基粘度。
- **脉动流与稳定流：** 模拟生理条件需要动态流型（如脉动流或振荡流）。
- **细胞接种密度和粘附性：** 细胞的融合度和附着情况影响其对剪切应力的响应；优化接种条件可确保均匀暴露。
- **基底刚度和弹性：** 微流控芯片基底的机械性能影响细胞感知剪切力的方式。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
## 为什么选择与 Fluigent 合作？
我们致力于通过简化复杂性的工具推动器官芯片研究。Fluigent 的压力驱动泵结合流量监测和控制，可在微流控环境中实现对作用于细胞或组织的剪切应力的精确控制。
无论您是在进行定制芯片的原型设计还是使用商业系统，让我们帮助您实现可重复且具生理相关性的实验结果。
[联系我们的专家](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
## Related ressources
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 面向高流量控制的微流控技术
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
## 参考文献
\[1\] Helmke B.P, Rosen A.B & Davies P.F. Mapping mechanical strain of an endogenous cytoskeletal network in living endothelial cells. Biophys J (2003). doi: 10.1016/S0006-3495(03)75074-7
\[2\] Malek A.M & Izumo S. Mechanism of endothelial cell shape change and cytoskeletal remodeling in response to fluid shear stress. J Cell Sci (1996). doi: 10.1242/jcs.109.4.713
\[3\] Campinho P, Vilfan A, Vermot J. Blood flow forces in shaping the vascular system: a focus on endothelial cell behavior. Front Physiol (2020) doi: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00552
\[4\] Hajal, C., et al. The effects of luminal and trans-endothelial fluid flows on the extravasation and tissue invasion of tumor cells in a 3D in vitro microvascular platform. Biomaterials (2021). doi: 10.1016/j. biomaterials.2020.120470
\[5\] Rochier A., et al. Laminar shear, but not orbital shear, has a synergistic effect with thrombin stimulation on tissue factor expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. J Vasc Surg (2011). doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.002
\[6\] Lipowsky H.H., et al. The distribution of blood rheological parameters in the microvasculature of cat mesentery. Circ Res. (1978). doi: 10.1161/01.res.43.5.738
\[7\] Kimura H., et al. Effect of fluid shear stress on in vitro cultured ureteric bud cells. Biomicrofluidics (2018). doi: 10.1063/1.5035328.
\[8\] Ross E.J., et al. Three dimensional modeling of biologically relevant fluid shear stress in human renal tubule cells mimics in vivo transcriptional profiles. Sci Rep (2021). doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-93570-5
\[9\] Flitney E.W., et al. Insights into the mechanical properties of epithelial cells: the effects of shear stress on the assembly and remodeling of keratin intermediate filaments. FASEB J (2009). doi: 10.1096/ fj.08-124453
\[10\] Dewey C.F Jr. et al. The dynamic response of vascular endothelial cells to fluid shear stress. *J Biomech* Eng (1981). doi: 10.1115/1.3138276.
\[11\] Thompson et al. Mechanical Stimulation: A Crucial Element of Organ-on-Chip Models. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology (2020). doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.602646
---
### [使用 Omi™ 双模块平台的肝-肾器官芯片模型 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/application-notes/tacrolimus-metabolism-liver-kidney/)
**Published:** August 6, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
本应用笔记是与利摩日大学药理学与移植 UMR 1248 实验室、Isy Petit、Jean-Sebastien Bernard、Florent Di Meo 博士和 Nicolas Vedrenne 博士合作撰写的。
**阅读完整的应用笔记**以获取完整的分析数据和方法（英文版)。
## 利用器官芯片 (OOC) 技术深入了解肝肾相互作用
肝移植后的肾功能障碍通常归因于他克莫司治疗，这突显了开发能够捕捉器官间药理学的先进模型的必要性。肝脏和肾脏通过肝脏代谢（例如 CYP3A4/5）、胆汁排泄以及肾脏转运蛋白介导的摄取/外排（图 1）共同决定了他克莫司的药物处置过程。然而，传统的体外和体内系统往往缺乏忠实重现器官串扰和动态药物流动的能力。
图 1. 他克莫司药理学：肝脏和肾脏的参与。图示展示了他克莫司经肝脏 CYP3A4/5 酶代谢、胆汁消除（约 90%）、少量尿液排泄（约 10%），以及在肝脏和肾脏腔室中由 P-gp 介导的外排。
### 为什么肝-肾器官芯片模型在药理学研究中至关重要
[器官芯片 (OOC) 技术](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/ "器官芯片 (OOC) 技术")提供了一种在流体流动下控制生理微环境的解决方案。单器官芯片用于建模和评估特定参数，如毒性、[剪切应力的影响](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/ "剪切应力的影响")、血管相互作用、癌症治疗等。而互联的多器官模型则允许研究跨器官反应。最近的文献综述强调了多器官器官芯片在 ADME（吸收、分布、代谢、排泄）、药物相互作用和毒性测试中的应用日益增加，相较于体内模型或静态模型，其具有更高的临床转化相关性\[1\]。
肾脏特异性模型专注于重现肾近端小管主动转运功能和代谢梯度的关键生理条件。当与肝脏芯片系统结合时，这种集成的多器官模型允许研究肝脏代谢如何影响肾脏暴露及潜在毒性。
## 构建肝-肾双模块器官芯片模型：材料与方法
- **细胞培养**：在 Be-Doubleflow 和 µSlide 装置中培养 RPTEC/TERT1 近端小管细胞和 HepaRG 细胞球体，以模拟肾脏和肝脏腔室。
- **Omi 双模块模式**：肾脏腔室以 10 µL/min 的速度、肝脏腔室以 20 µL/min 的速度进行 48 小时的自动化双循环，以模拟生理灌注
- **mRNA 定量**：通过 qPCR 分析评估转运蛋白和受体的表达变化。
- **免疫荧光**：在 HepaRG 细胞球体中进行蛋白质定位和功能验证。
- **LC-MS/MS 化合物定量**：测量培养基中的他克莫司及其代谢物。
- **代谢组学研究**：全面分析由处理条件诱导的代谢改变。
图 2. 肝-肾双模块器官芯片装置概述
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
## 基于肝-肾器官芯片模型的他克莫司代谢与药物相互作用研究洞察
Omi™ 双模块器官芯片平台提供了一个与人体相关的肝-肾器官芯片模型，用于在互联的多器官系统中研究药物代谢、药代动力学、清除率以及药物相互作用。
该系统使用他克莫司作为模型化合物，重现了肝脏代谢和肾脏清除的关键特征。他克莫司的浓度在肝脏腔室中迅速下降，并在约 8 小时后趋于稳定，这反映了 HepaRG 肝细胞的主动摄取和代谢；而在尿液腔室中检测到的较低水平，与有限的肾脏清除率和主要以胆汁排泄为主的特点相一致。
图 3. 他克莫司对双器官模型的影响。 (A) 他克莫司 (10µM) 处理组（红色）和他克莫司 (10µM) + 二甲双胍 (1mM) 联合处理组（绿色）期间（每个条件 n=3），左侧肝脏腔室和右侧尿液腔室中上方图表的他克莫司曲线下面积 (AUC) 以及下方图表的去甲基他克莫司曲线下面积；彩色区域代表误差棒范围。
在肝脏和肾脏腔室中检测到去甲基他克莫司代谢物，证明了双器官平台模拟药物转化、代谢物转运和器官特异性反应的能力。转录组学分析进一步揭示了转运蛋白和核受体的反应，包括在他克莫司暴露后稳定的 ABCB1/P-gp 和 ABCC4/MRP4 表达，以及轻微的 ABCC2/MRP2 调节。
这些结果突显了肝-肾器官芯片技术在预测性药物开发、毒性测试以及药物相互作用机制研究方面的潜力，为传统的体外模型提供了一种更具生理相关性的替代方案。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
实验数据已经非常明确：单向流是提高生理相关性的绝对关键。请不要再向静态培养或不够理想的摇床平台妥协了。
即刻体验Omi™的独特优势
- 申请产品演示：亲眼见证Omi™平台如何与您现有的微流控芯片实现无缝整合。
- 咨询专业技术专家：与我们的应用科学家一对一交流。
[**咨询专业技术专家**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
## 相关解决方案与专业技术
- [
### 适用于器官芯片研究的高级解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 在器官芯片研究中的为流体压力控制
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
---
### [회사](https://www.fluigent.com/company/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 회사 소개
미세유체 연구실과 업계에서는 유체 제어 측면에서 요구되는 수준과 정밀도로 연구를 수행하고 장비를 개발하는 데 어려움을 겪고 있었습니다. 압력 펌프라는 혁신적인 기술을 도입하여 이 문제를 해결한 최초의 회사가 바로 Fluigent였습니다. 미세유체 및 나노유체 분야에 사용할 수 있는 Fluigent 고유의 광범위한 솔루션은 보다 뛰어난 제어, 자동화, 정밀도, 사용 편의성으로 유량을 완벽하게 제어하고 오염을 최소화합니다.
연구실에서는 당사의 즉시 사용 가능한 기기를 유체 제어가 중요한 다양한 분야에 사용할 수 있습니다.
업계 기업들은 Fluigent의 기술을 통합하여 자체 제품을 향상시키고 개선할 수 있습니다.
[알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%ed%9a%8c%ec%82%ac/about-us/)
## 팀 만나보기
전 세계 여러 나라 출신의 당사 팀원들은 다양한 배경을 가지고 있으며 매일 흥미진진한 도전 과제를 해결하는 데 열과 성을 다하고 있습니다. 당사의 제품 뒤에 숨은 사람들의 놀라운 이야기를 만나보십시오.
[알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%ed%9a%8c%ec%82%ac/team/)
## 당사 뉴스
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company newsInsights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics July 16, 2024
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
[
Company newsNavigating Success: A Year in Review at Fluigent – Client Chronicles and Company HighlightsDecember 14, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/a-year-in-review-at-fluigent-2023/)
[
Company newsFluigent: Ambassador for ‘Made in Val-de-Marne’December 1, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-ambassador-for-made-in-val-de-marne/)
[
Company newsAlain’s Experience at MedicaNovember 21, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/medica-2023/)
[
Company newsWelcome Alain Crampon!October 13, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/welcome-alain-crampon/)
[
Company newsMeet Karolina Sobeczek, Fluigent Germany’s Business Development Manager for Eastern EuropeSeptember 28, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/karolina-sobeczek/)
[
Company newsElevating Collaboration and Inspiration: Unforgettable Team Building Event with Breathtaking Paris ViewsJune 27, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/team-building-2023/)
[
Company newsFrance Hamber interview about SLAS EUROPE 2023June 20, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-ceo-slas-europe-2023/)
[
Company newsLet us celebrate the 9th anniversary of FLUIGENT Germany together! May 17, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/9th-anniversary-fluigent-germany/)
[
Product newsDevelopment of an in-vitro eye model with the Flow EZMarch 31, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/in-vitro-eye-model/)
[
Company newsFluigent’s new organ-on-chip platform, OmiMarch 17, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-omi/)
[
Company newsMicrofluidics & Organ-On-Chips Panel Discussion 2022October 18, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/microfluidics-organ-on-chips-panel-discussion/)
[
Company newsGerman Website LaunchOctober 6, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/german-website-launch/)
[
Company newsJournées du Patrimoine, 2022May 21, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/journees-du-patrimoine-2022/)
[
Company newsFLUIGENT Germany celebrates 8 years!April 29, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-germany-celebrates-8-years/)
[
Company newsThought Leader: France HamberApril 19, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/thought-leader-france-hamber/)
[
Product newsFluigent product ARIA highlighted in last issue of Nature MethodsMarch 18, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-product-aria-highlighted-in-last-issue-of-nature-methods/)
[
Company newsOur CEO, one of the 20 Sup’Excellence laureatesMarch 9, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/our-ceo-one-of-the-20-supexcellence-laureates/)
[
Organ-On-ChipNew Application Notes : A human gut-on-chip modelMarch 4, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-application-notes-a-human-gut-on-chip-model/)
[
Product newsFluigent introduces you the F-OEM SeriesMarch 4, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-introduces-you-the-f-oem-series/)
[
Product newsFluigent product ARIA highlighted in last issue of Nature ProtocolsFebruary 16, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/aria-on-the-cover-of-nature-protocols/)
[
Company newsFluigent, a leader in the growing microfluidics market, is looking for passionate new collaboratorsFebruary 16, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-a-leader-in-the-growing-microfluidics-market-is-looking-for-passionate-new-collaborators/)
[
Product news2022 Research and Industrial product catalogJanuary 12, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/2022-research-and-industrial-product-catalog/)
[
Company newsIle-de-France exporter of the yearDecember 6, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/ile-de-france-exporter-of-the-year/)
[
Fluigent expertiseDroplet-based microfluidicsNovember 15, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/droplet-based-microfluidics/)
[
Company newsFluigent 15th year anniversary celebrationOctober 22, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-15th-year-anniversary-celebration/)
[
Product newsNew Software | OxyGENOctober 19, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-software-oxygen/)
[
Company newsProudly made in FranceJuly 5, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/proudly-made-in-france/)
[
Company newsLunar New YearFebruary 12, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/lunar-new-year/)
[
Company newsCOVID-19 updateMarch 20, 2020
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/covid-19-update/)
[
Fluigent expertiseMicrofluidic setup Flow Rate ad Pressure CalculatorOctober 2, 2019
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/microfluidic-setup-flow-rate-ad-pressure-calculator/)
[
Product newsIntroducing Fluigent New 2-SwitchFebruary 4, 2019
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/introducing-fluigent-new-2-switch/)
[
Product newsNew Pressure Based Flow Controller for IndustryDecember 18, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-pressure-based-flow-controller-for-industry/)
[
Company news\[FRENCH\] La start-up qui réinvente l’analyse médicaleAugust 10, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/french-la-start-up-qui-reinvente-lanalyse-medicale/)
[
Company newsFluigent provides automated fldic platfrom to BIOART-Lung 2020 projectJuly 13, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-provides-automated-fldic-platfrom-to-bioart-lung-2020-project/)
[
Product newsSmart Microfluidic has arrivedJune 22, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/smart-microfluidic-has-arrived/)
[
Company newsFluigent is growing!March 8, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-is-growing/)
[
Product newsFlow EZ™ : the future of microfluidicsApril 27, 2017
Découvrir
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/flow-ez-the-future-of-microfluidics/)
## 당사 이벤트
Fluigent는 미세 유체 업계에서 탄탄한 입지를 보유하고 있습니다. 모든 주요 컨퍼런스에 참가하여 최신 제품과 애플리케이션을 선보이고 있습니다. 또한 자체적으로 미세유체 장치 워크샵과 웨비나를 주최하고 있습니다.
[알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/)
## 당사 입사 지원
당사는 일상의 현실을 변화시키고 세상을 더 안전한 곳으로 만들며 과학적 진보와 발견을 가속화함으로써 생명을 구하기 위해 공유, 협업, 혁신을 추구하는 열성적인 사람들로 구성된 회사입니다.
[지원하기](https://www.fluigent.com/company/career/)
---
### [hiPSC 유래 혈관 장기 온 칩: 단방향 흐름을 통한 생리학적 정렬 달성 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/application-notes/hipscs-derived-vascular-organ-on-chip/)
**Published:** March 17, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
본 연구는 라이덴 장기 온 칩 센터 및 [라이덴 대학교 의료원](https://www.orlovalab.com/ "라이덴 대학교 의료원") 오를로바 연구 그룹 소속 다니시 카시 박사, 한나 라메르트세 박사, 발레리아 오를로바 박사와의 협력 하에 수행되었습니다.
## 과제: 단방향 흐름이 중요한 이유
체외 모델은 동물 실험을 보완하고 줄이며 잠재적으로 대체함으로써 생의학 연구에 혁신을 가져올 잠재력을 지니고 있습니다. 인간 유도 만능 줄기세포 (hiPSC) 및 장기 특이적 세포 분화 프로토콜과 결합하면, 첨단 인간 체외 모델을 설계하여 신약 개발, 인간 질병 규명, 그리고 맞춤형 의학 구현이 가능해집니다¹,². 미세유체 장기 온 칩 (OoC) 모델은 특히 이에 적합합니다. 미세 크기의 관류 챔버 내에 생체 인간 세포를 수용하여 조직 및 장기 기능을 소형화된 포맷으로 모사할 수 있기 때문입니다¹–³.
인체 내에서 건강한 동맥과 정맥은 지속적이고 층류 (laminar) 형태의 전단 응력을 경험합니다. 이를 체외에서 재현하기 위해서는 정적 조건이나 양방향 (록킹) 흐름으로는 불충분합니다.
- **정적 배양 (Static Culture)**: 생리학적이지 않은 “자갈돌 (cobblestone)” 형태의 세포 형태를 유도합니다.
- **양방향 흐름 (Bidirectional Flow)**: 교란된 병리적 조건 (예: 동맥경화증) 을 모사합니다.
- **단방향 흐름 (Unidirectional Flow)**: 성숙하고 안정된 내피 세포 표현형 유도에 필수적입니다.
## 해결책: Omi™ OoC 플랫폼
[Fluigent 의 Omi 는 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "Fluigent 의 Omi 는 ")컴팩트하고 사용하기 쉬운 미세유체 시스템으로, 연구자가 원하는 장기 온 칩 모델을 연결하고 재순환 기능을 갖춘 단방향 미세유체 흐름 실험을 설정할 수 있게 해줍니다. Omi™ 는 복잡한 미세유체 공학을 사용자 친화적이고 자동화된 시스템으로 단순화합니다.
### 혈관 모델링을 위한 주요 기능:
- **지속적 재순환 (Continuous Recirculation)**: 최소량의 배지 (3.3 mL) 로 5 일 이상 안정적인 흐름 프로파일을 유지합니다.
- **범용 호환성 (Universal Compatibility)**: 표준 Luer 피팅을 통해 모든 칩 (예: Beonchip Be-Flow) 과 연결 가능합니다.
- **스마트 제어 (Smart Control)**: 정밀한 캘리브레이션 및 흐름 스케줄링을 위한 직관적인 Android 인터페이스를 제공합니다.
[Omi 에 대해 자세히 알아보기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "Omi에 대해 더 알아보기")
### 실험 결과: 한눈에 보기
본 애플리케이션 노트에서는 hiPSC 유래 내피 세포 (hiPSC-ECs)⁴,⁵ 를 접종한 Beonchip Be-Flow 칩을 Omi 시스템에 연결하여 5 일간 단방향 흐름 실험을 수행했습니다. 이 조건은 정적 조건으로 배양된 칩 및 록킹 플랫폼에서 양방향 흐름을 적용한 칩과 비교되었습니다.
**특징** **정적 (Static)** **양방향 (록킹)** **Omi™ 단방향** **흐름 프로파일** 흐름 없음 간헐적/역방향 안정적/지속적 **세포 형태** 자갈돌 (Cobblestone) 무작위 길쭉하고 정렬됨 **극화 (Polarization)** 없음 낮음 (0.024) 강함 (0.174) **전단 응력** 0 dyn/cm2가변적 0.912 dyn/cm² ## 실험 워크플로우 및 정량적 판독값: 5 일 자동화 워크플로우
본 애플리케이션 노트는 세포 접종부터 정량적 이미지 분석까지 단계별 실험 워크플로우를 제공합니다.
다음 내용을 확인할 수 있습니다:
- hiPSC 유래 내피 세포를 위한 5 일간 단방향 흐름 프로토콜
- Omi™ 설정 및 재순환 워크플로우
- 정적, 양방향 및 단방향 흐름 조건의 비교
- PolarityJam 을 활용한 세포 정렬 및 극화의 정량적 분석
- 장기 배양 기간 동안 안정적인 흐름 유지에 대한 증거
### 1. 세포 분화 및 배양 + 세포 접종
hiPSC 는 재조합 비트로넥틴 (vitronectin) 이 코팅된 플레이트에서 TeSR-E8 배지를 사용하여 배양하였으며, 주 1 회 계대 배양을 수행했습니다. hiPSC 유래 내피 세포 (hiPSC-ECs) 는 오를로바 연구 그룹에서 ранее 보고된 방법에 따라 분화 및 배양되었습니다⁴,⁵. Beonchip Be-Flow 미세유체 칩은 50 µg/mL 소 혈장 피브로넥틴 (bovine fibronectin) 으로 코팅하였습니다. hiPSC-ECs 를 해리시킨 후, PenStrep 이 보충된 EGM-2 배지에 5×10⁶ cells/mL 농도로 재현탁하였습니다. 50 µL 의 세포 현탁액을 칩 주입구에 조심스럽게 피펫팅하여 세포가 수동적으로 칩 내부로 주입되도록 하였습니다. 세포는 37°C 에서 1 시간 동안 부착되도록 한 후, 칩을 록킹 플랫폼으로 옮겨 15 시간 (하룻밤) 동안 배양하였습니다.
다음 날, 칩을 정적 조건으로 두거나, 록킹 플랫폼 (양방향 흐름) 에 유지하거나, Omi 에 연결 (단방향 흐름) 하여 실험을 시작하였습니다.
### 2. Omi 설정
자동화된 5 일 재순환 프로토콜을 Omi 소프트웨어를 사용하여 작성하고, Omi 장치에 로드하였습니다 (그림 2A). 소프트웨어는 내장된 단계별 안내를 통해 각 단계를 안내하며, 주요 절차는 다음과 같습니다:
1. **캘리브레이션 (Calibration)**: 정확한 흐름 측정을 위해 저장소 레벨 센서를 설정합니다.
2. **멸균 (Sterilization)**: Omi 유체 경로 및 실험용 튜브를 물로 세척한 후 70% 에탄올로 처리합니다. 참고: 사용 전 모든 커넥터 및 튜브는 오토클레이브 멸균 또는 멸균액 보관을 통해 미리 멸균 처리하였습니다.
3. **로딩 (Loading)**: 기포 제거 및 지속적 흐름 확보를 위해 배지로 유체 경로를 미리 채웁니다.
4. **칩 연결 (Chip Connection)**: 재순환 시작 전, Omi 를 미세유체 칩 (Beonchip Be-Flow) 에 연결합니다 (그림 2).
hiPSC-ECs 를 포함한 미세유체 칩 (Beonchip Be-Flow) 은 표준 Luer 피팅 및 미세유체 튜빙을 사용하여 Omi 에 누수 없이 연결하였습니다 (그림 2). 직관적인 Android 앱 (태블릿 실행) 을 통해 여러 대의 Omi 를 동시에 제어할 수 있습니다 (그림 2).
이 앱을 통해 사용자는 흐름 프로파일을 구성하고, 캘리브레이션 및 세척 절차를 수행할 수 있습니다. 원하는 흐름 프로파일 및 시간 범위를 설정한 후 (그림 1), 소량의 배지 (3.3 mL) 를 Omi 에 추가합니다. 마지막으로 실험을 시작하고, Omi 를 인큐베이터로 이동시킵니다 (그림 2).
그림 1 실험 워크플로우 개요
**그림 2** 인큐베이터 내부에서 미세유체 칩이 연결된 상태로 작동 중인 2 대의 Fluigent Omi™ 오른쪽 상단 Omi 를 제어하는 직관적인 인터페이스가 탑재된 태블릿
### 3. 면역형광 염색 및 이미징
시료는 고정 (fixation), 투과화 (permeabilization), 블로킹 (blocking) 처리를 거친 후, 1 차 항체 (VE-cadherin 및 GM130) 와 함께 하룻밤 동안 배양하였습니다. 이후 2 차 항체 및 DAPI 로 염색하였습니다. 이미징은 20 배 대물렌즈가 장착된 EVOS M7000 현미경 (Thermo Fisher Scientific) 을 사용하여 수행하였습니다. 각 채널당 무작위 위치에서 6 장의 이미지를 촬영하였으며, 조건당 4 개의 기술적 반복 (technical replicates) 을 사용하였습니다.
### 4. hiPSC-EC 정렬 및 극화의 정량화
면역형광 이미지는 [PolarityJam](https://polarityjam.readthedocs.io/en/latest/)⁶ 을 사용하여 분석하였으며, 이를 통해 hiPSC 유래 내피 세포 (hiPSC-ECs) 의 정렬 및 극화를 정량화하였습니다. 모든 이미지는 PolarityJam 에서 분석하였고, 데이터를 통합하여 방향성 및 극화 그래프를 작성하였습니다.
## 결과: 안정적인 단방향 흐름이 hiPSC 유래 내피 세포의 정렬 및 극화를 유도함
### 1. 재순환을 통한 안정적인 단방향 흐름 프로파일
hiPSC-ECs 를 지원하고 흐름 방향에 평행한 정렬을 부드럽게 촉진하기 위해, 그림 3A 에 명시된 대로 흐름 프로파일을 설정하였습니다. 유량은 24 시간마다 증가시켰으며, 최대 200 μL/min (전단 응력 0.912 dyn/cm² 에 해당) 으로 48 시간 동안 유지하였습니다. Omi 는 이러한 유량을 지속적으로 유지할 수 있었으며, 지정된 시간 포인트에서 더 높은 유량으로 안정적으로 전환할 수 있었습니다 (그림 3B).
재순환 주기마다 최대 1 분간 흐름이 정지되는 리필 (refill) 단계가 뒤따른다는 점에 유의하시기 바랍니다. 이는 그래프에서 유량이 0 μL/min 으로 하락하는 구간으로 확인할 수 있습니다. 재순환 기능 덕분에 실험 중 추가적인 배지 공급이 필요하지 않았습니다. 단방향 흐름은 VE-cadherin 에 대한 면역염색 후 정성적 관찰에서 확인할 수 있듯이 (그림 3C), hiPSC-ECs 가 흐름 방향에 평행하게 강하게 정렬되도록 유도하였습니다.
**그림 3** 흐름 제어 및 다양한 조건 하의 내피 세포 반응 **(A)** 실험에 사용된 유량 (flowrates) 및 시간 간격 (time intervals) 표
**(B)** Omi 가 다양한 유량 간 전환이 가능하고, 재순환 기능을 제공하면서도 장시간에 걸쳐 해당 유량을 안정적으로 유지할 수 있음을 보여주는 대표 흐름 트레이스 (flow traces)
**(C)** 정적 조건 (static), 양방향 흐름 조건 (록킹 플랫폼 사용), 단방향 흐름 조건 (Omi 사용) 에서 배양된 hiPSC 유래 내피 세포 (hiPSC-ECs) 의 면역형광 이미지
### 2. hiPSC-EC 정렬 및 극화의 정량화
PolarityJam⁶ 을 활용하여 hiPSC-EC 의 정렬 및 극화를 정량화할 수 있었습니다 (그림 4A). 5 일 후, Omi 를 이용한 단방향 흐름을 적용한 조건에서 hiPSC-ECs 는 강하게 극화되었으며 흐름 방향에 평행하게 정렬되었습니다 (그림 4A 좌측 이미지 및 그림 4B 상단 그래프).
그림 4. 흐름 의존적 내피 세포 정렬 및 극성 평가
(A) 세포 특성 추출 (PolarityJam) 에 사용된 대표 면역형광 이미지. hiPSC-ECs 는 VE-cadherin (녹색) 및 골지체 (GM130, 분홍색) 에 대해 면역염색되었습니다. 핵과 골지체 사이의 각도를 ‘골지체 -핵 방향 (golgi-nucleus orientation)’으로 정의하며, 이는 hiPSC-EC 극화 판정에 사용됩니다. 세포 형태 방향성은 hiPSC-ECs 가 흐름 방향에 평행하게 정렬되었는지를 나타내는 지표로 활용됩니다.
(B) Omi 가 제공하는 지속적 단방향 흐름 및 전단력은 세포 형태 방향성이 흐름 방향과 강하게 평행하게 정렬되도록 유도하였습니다. 또한, 단방향 흐름은 골지체 -핵 방향의 극화를 유도하였으며, 이는 흐름 방향과 정확히 반대되는 극성 지수 (polarity index) 및 음의 V-score 로 입증되었습니다. 이러한 효과는 정적 조건 및 양방향 흐름 조건에서는 관찰되지 않았습니다. N (분석된 세포 수) 은 조건마다 다르며, n (기술적 반복 수) = 4 입니다.
중요하게도, 단방향 흐름은 원형 플롯 및 극성 지수 (0.174, 그림 4B 하단 그래프) 에서 확인할 수 있듯이 골지체 -핵 극화를 유도하였습니다. 골지체 -핵 극화의 평균 방향은 흐름 방향과 반대 (빨간색 화살표) 로 나타나, 흐름이 극화를 유도했음을 시사합니다.
극성 지수는 빨간색 화살표의 길이로 시각화되며, 극화 정도를 나타내는 척도로 값이 클수록 더 강한 극화를 의미합니다. 정적 조건 및 양방향 조건에서는 각각 극성 지수가 0.06 및 0.0243 으로, 이러한 효과가 관찰되지 않았습니다. 또한, 단방향 흐름 시료의 더 높은 음의 V-score (-0.174, 흐름 방향과의 일치도 척도) 는 흐름 방향과 반대되는 극화를 지지하는 결과입니다.
종합하면, 이러한 데이터는 상대적으로 낮은 최대 전단 응력 (0.912 dyn/cm²) 에서도 Omi 가 제공하는 단방향 흐름이 생리학적 관련성을 갖춘 내피 세포 (EC) 표현형을 유도함을 시사합니다. 따라서 더 높은 전단 응력을 사용할 경우, hiPSC-ECs 의 더 강력한 골지체 -핵 극화를 유도할 수 있을 것으로 추론됩니다. 본 연구에서 입증된 안정적인 단방향 흐름은 정확한 혈관 체외 모델링에 필수적이며, hiPSC-ECs 가 성숙하고 생리학적 관련성을 갖춘 표현형을 획득하는 데 기여할 수 있습니다.
## 결론 및 향후 방향
**결과 요약**
본 연구는 Omi™ 플랫폼이 운용의 간편성과 생물학적 정교함을 성공적으로 연결함을 확인하였습니다.
실제로, Omi™ 플랫폼은 생리학적 조건을 밀접하게 재현하는 혈관 온 칩 (vessel-on-chip) 모델에서 장기적·저용량 재순환 관류를 수행하도록 설정할 수 있습니다.
운용의 간편성과 생물학적 관련성을 갖춘 흐름 조건을 결합함으로써, Omi™ 플랫폼은 자동화된 재순환 기능을 갖춘 안정적인 단방향 관류를 지원합니다. 이 구성을 통해 연구자들은 다음을 수행할 수 있습니다:
- 혈전증 또는 동맥경화증과 같은 병리적 혈관 조건 재현
- 특화된 혈관 모델 내 면역 세포 외유출 (extravasation) 연구
- 조절된 흐름 하에서 염증 반응에 대한 견고한 연구 수행
5 일간, Omi™ 는 안정적인 자동화 단방향 흐름을 유지하였으며, 이는 성숙한 내피 세포 표현형 달성에 결정적인 요소였습니다.
정적 조건 및 양방향 (록킹) 조건은 세포 조직화를 유도하지 못했으나, Omi™ 기반 환경은 다음을 유도하였습니다:
- **정밀한 형태학적 정렬**: hiPSC-ECs 가 흐름 벡터에 평행하게 정렬
- **기능적 극화**: 골지체 -핵 방향성의 유의미한 변화, 생리학적 성숙 지표
- **배지 효율성**: 연속 재순환을 통해 극히 적은 배지 부피로 결과 달성
## OoC 생태계 전반의 다용도성
또한, [Omi™ ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Omi™ ")플랫폼은 범용 통합을 위해 설계되었습니다. 유연한 커넥터 인터페이스를 통해 연구자는 모든 미세유체 칩과 연결할 수 있어, 표준 장기 온 칩 (OoC) 설정을 최소한의 설정 노력으로 고정밀 관류 혈관 모델로 전환할 수 있습니다.
## 연구 지평 확장
안정적인 장기 관류 환경을 제공함으로써, Omi™ 는 복잡한 혈관 연구를 위한 새로운 가능성을 열어줍니다:
- **병리적 모델링**: 동맥경화증 또는 혈전증의 혈역학적 조건 시뮬레이션
- **면역학 연구**: 특화된 혈관 온 칩 장벽 내 면역 세포 외유출 및 유도 메커니즘 규명
- **신약 개발**: 현실적인 흐름 조건 하에서 고정밀 염증 반응 분석 수행
- **맞춤형 의학**: 환자 특이적 hiPSC 를 활용한 혈관 약물 독성 또는 효능 예측
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-importance-of-flow-in-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Omi 의 작동 원리에 대해 더 알아보기:
- [HUVECs 를 활용한 전단 응력 제어 ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/ "HUVECs 를 활용한 전단 응력 제어 ")
- [장 온 칩 (Gut-on-chip) 모델링 ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/ "장 온 칩 (Gut-on-chip) 모델링 ")
- [Omi 를 통한 장기 재순환 구현 방법 ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/ "Omi 를 통한 장기 재순환 구현 방법 ")
## 🚀 혈관 연구를 한 단계 업그레이드할 준비가 되셨나요?
데이터는 명확합니다: 단방향 흐름은 생리학적 관련성을 확보하는 핵심 요소입니다. 정적 배양이나 최적화되지 않은 록킹 플랫폼으로 타협하지 마십시오.
### Omi™ 의 차별화된 우위를 경험해 보세요
- **데모 요청**: Omi™ 플랫폼이 기존 미세유체 칩과 어떻게 연동되는지 확인해 보십시오.
- **전문가 상담**: 당사의 응용 과학자와 동맥경화증, 혈전증 또는 면역 세포 외유출 모델링에 대해 논의해 보십시오.
[전문 기술 전문가와 상담하세요](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
## 관련 솔루션 및 전문 기술
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
추가 정보](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
추가 정보](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
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### 오간온어칩 연구에서의 압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술
추가 정보](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
## 감사의 글
라이덴 OoC 센터와 오를로바 박사의 연구는 다음 기관 및 프로젝트의 지원을 받았습니다.
림프칩 프로젝트, 연구비 번호: NWA-ORC 2019 1292.19.019, 네덜란드 과학 연구 기구(NWO)의 “컨소시엄 기반 연구(ORC)” 프로그램의 일환으로 지원됨.
노보 노르디스크 재단 줄기세포 의학 센터, 연구비 번호: NNF21CC0073729
References
1. Ingber DE. Human organs-on-chips for disease modelling, drug development and personalized medicine. Nat Rev Genet. 2022 Aug;23(8):467–91.
2\. Shakeri A, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Landau S, Perera K, Lee J, et al. Engineering Organ-on-a-Chip Systems for Vascular Diseases. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2023 Dec;43(12):2241–55.
3\. Jang S, Collin de l’Hortet A, Soto-Gutierrez A. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Endothelial Cells: Overview, Current Advances, Applications, and Future Directions. Am J Pathol. 2019 Mar;189(3):502–12.
4\. Orlova VV, van den Hil FE, Petrus-Reurer S, Drabsch Y, Ten Dijke P, Mummery CL. Generation, expansion and functional analysis of endothelial cells and pericytes derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Nat Protoc. 2014;9(6):1514–31.
5\. Tkachenko E, Gutierrez E, Saikin SK, Fogelstrand P, Kim C, Groisman A, et al. The nucleus of endothelial cell as a sensor of blood flow direction. Biol Open. 2013 Aug 14;2(10):1007–12.
6\. Dorland YL, Huveneers S. Cell-cell junctional mechanotransduction in endothelial remodeling. Cell Mol Life Sci CMLS. 2017 Jan;74(2):279–92.
7\. Giese W, Albrecht JP, Oppenheim O, Akmeriç EB, Kraxner J, Schmidt D, et al. Polarity-JaM: an image analysis toolbox for cell polarity, junction and morphology quantification. Nat Commun. 2025 Feb 8;16(1):1474.
---
### [마이크로유체 응용 설명](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/application-notes/)
**Published:** March 5, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
**Fluigent** 는 나노유체(Nanofluidics) 및 마이크로유체(Microfluidics) 응용 분야에 대한 폭넓은 솔루션을 제공하며, 이를 통해 탁월한 제어 성능, 자동화, 정밀도 및 사용 편의성을 실현합니다. 귀사의 응용 연구가 액적 생성, 세포 생물학, 입자 연구, 혹은 기타 다른 분야에 해당하더라도, 당사는 유체 제어 요구사항에 맞춰 가장 비용 효율적이면서도 기술적으로 선도적인 솔루션을 제공할 수 있는 전문 기술 역량과 업계 노하우를 보유하고 있습니다.
당사의 최고 수준 유량 제어 기술은 다수의 생의학 연구 분야에서 광범위하게 활용되고 있으며, 높은 제어성과 정밀도를 바탕으로 안정적인 유체 출력을 제공합니다. 이러한 장점은 다양한 학술 논문, 응용 가이드, 학회 발표 등을 통해 이미 충분히 검증되었습니다.
본 페이지에서는 실험 설정 및 연구 프로세스 최적화를 돕는 **마이크로유체 응용 가이드**를 모아놓았습니다. 혹시 Fluigent 제품을 사용하여 학술 논문을 발표하신 적이 있으신가요? 그렇다면 **contact@fluigent.com** 으로 언제든지 연락해 주십시오. 당사는 공식 웹사이트에서 귀사의 연구 성과를 소개하고 인용하여 과학계와 공유하고자 합니다.
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### hiPSC 유래 혈관 장기 온 칩: 단방향 흐름을 통한 생리학적 정렬 달성
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/application-notes/hipscs-derived-vascular-organ-on-chip/)
---
### [첨단 오가노이드 모델링에서 마이크로유체공학의 역할: 정적 환경에서 동적 환경으로 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
**Published:** April 22, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 오가노이드 모델이란 무엇인가?
오가노이드(organoid)는 줄기세포에서 유래하여 자가 조직화를 통해 장기의 미니어처화되고 단순화된 버전으로 발달하는 소형 3 차원 (3D) 다세포 구조체입니다. 오가노이드 모델링은 장기 발달, 구조 및 기능의 핵심적인 측면들을 모사합니다. 기존 세포 배양법과 비교할 때, 오가노이드는 장기 특이적인 세포 이질성, 공간적 조직화 및 기능적 산출물을 모방하므로, 질병 기전 연구, 숙주-병원체 상호작용 분석, 그리고 맞춤형 의학 분야에서 강력한 도구로 활용됩니다.
오가노이드는 뇌, 망막, 간, 폐, 장, 신장, 췌장 및 다양한 종양을 포함하여 광범위한 조직과 장기를 대상으로 개발되어 왔습니다. 각 오가노이드 유형은 고유한 조직 유사 특성을 나타냅니다. 장 오가노이드는 음와-융모 (crypt–villus) 구조를 형성할 수 있으며, 망막 오가노이드는 층상 광수용체 배열을 발달시키고, 신장 오가노이드는 네프론 유사 세관 구조를 생성합니다. 이러한 모델들은 인간 또는 동물 조직 접근이 제한적이거나 윤리적 제약이 있는 경우 특히 유용하게 인간 생물학 연구에 통찰력을 제공해 왔습니다.
높은 생물학적 충실도에도 불구하고, 기존 정적 (static) 오가노이드 배양법은 몇 가지 한계점을 가지고 있습니다. 오가노이드는 종종 Matrigel 과 같은 세포외기질 (ECM) 젤에 포매되거나 부유 배양 방식으로 성장합니다. 이는 영양분과 산소 확산을 제한하여 대형 오가노이드에서 괴사 코어 (necrotic core) 형성을 초래할 수 있습니다. 이러한 확산 장벽은 오가노이드의 크기, 수명 및 세포 성숙도를 제한합니다. 또한 정적 시스템은 관류에 의한 유체 전단력 (fluid shear) 과 같이 세포 성숙과 분화에 필수적인 동적 물리적 자극을 재현하지 못합니다. 이러한 단점들은 혈관화된 조직 및 복잡한 장기 수준 기능의 모델링을 저해하여, 약물 스크리닝이나 질병 모델링을 위한 시스템의 임상적 관련성을 감소시킵니다.
## 기초 원리: 마이크로유체공학과 오가노이드의 만남
마이크로유체 기술은 층류 (laminar flow) 조건 하에서 미세 규모로 유체를 정밀하게 조작함으로써 이러한 장벽을 극복합니다. 이러한 시스템은 세포 미세환경에 대해 높은 수준의 제어를 제공합니다. 이를 통해 영양분과 산소의 지속적 관류, 기계적 자극 적용, 그리고 생화학적 구배 (gradient) 형성이 재현 가능하게 구현됩니다. 결과적으로 마이크로유체 플랫폼은 오가노이드 생존율을 향상시키고, 조직 성숙을 촉진하며, 혈관형성을 지원합니다.
소량의 유체로 작동하는 마이크로유체공학은 실시간 모니터링, 구배 생성, 그리고 약물 및 신호 전달 분자의 정밀한 전달을 가능하게 합니다. 마이크로유체 장치 내에서 고처리량 스크리닝 (high-throughput screening) 및 단일 오가노이드 수준의 분석을 수행할 수 있어, 더 큰 확장성과 실험적 제어력을 제공합니다.
******오가노이드 연구에서 활용되는 여러 마이크로유체 방식은 다음과 같습니다:******
🔹 폐쇄형 채널 시스템 (Closed-channel systems)
관류 가능 채널을 통해 혈관계를 모사합니다. 그림 1 은 오가노이드가 입구와 출구에 연결된 중앙 채널에서 관류될 수 있는 방식을 보여주며, 인접 채널에는 하이드로젤에 포매된 내피세포와 섬유아세포가 포함되어 종양오가노이드 (tumoroid) 의 혈관형성을 촉진합니다.(1)
****그림 1**: 마이크로유체 장치 및 칩 위 오가노이드. 종양오가노이드 배양에 혈관 관류를 적용하여 혈관신생 (angiogenesis) 을 모델링함.**
- 🔹 개방형 마이크로유체 (Open microfluidics)
조직 분석을 위한 더 용이한 접근성을 제공합니다. 그림 2 에서 볼 수 있듯이, 3D 프린팅된 마이크로유체 장치는 초기 신경 오가노이드를 수용하도록 설계되었으며, 주변 채널에 접종된 인간 만능줄기세포 (hPSC) 유래 혈관세포로부터의 혈관형성을 가능하게 합니다. 이 구성은 관류 배양을 위해 밀봉할 수 있으며, 이후 유세포 분석 (flow cytometry) 및 프로테오믹스 (proteomics) 와 같은 분석 절차를 용이하게 하기 위해 개봉할 수 있습니다.(2)
*****그림 2**: (A) 칩 위 오가노이드의 실체현미경 이미지. 스케일: 2mm. (B) 칩 내 혈관신생 모식도***
- 🔹 액적 및 마이크로비드 마이크로유체 (Droplet and microbead microfluidics)
균일한 액적 내에 세포를 포획하여 신속한 오가노이드 생성을 가능하게 합니다. 그림 3 은 세포 분자 분석 및 고처리량 핸들링을 위한 마이크로비드 캡슐의 활용 사례를 보여줍니다.(3)
****그림 3: 마이크로비드 핸들링 및 연구를 위한 방법론적 발전****
## 정적 환경에서 동적 환경으로의 전환: 기술적 구현
### 정적 조건에서 오가노이드를 배양할 때의 한계는 무엇인가?
정적 오가노이드 배양은 확산 장벽(diffusion barriers)으로 인해 크기가 제한됩니다. 확산 장벽이란 산소, 영양분 및 대사산물이 세포 생존과 기능을 지원하기 위해 3D 조직 구조(오가노이드 등) 내로 효과적으로 확산될 수 있는 최대 거리를 의미합니다. 이 임계 거리를 초과하면 세포는 저산소증(hypoxia)이나 영양 결핍을 경험하여 괴사 코어(necrotic core) 형성을 초래합니다. 일반적으로 직경 300-500µm를 초과하는 오가노이드는 괴사 코어를 발달시키며, 이는 Matrigel 돔(domes)이나 부유 배양과 같은 정적 배양에서 특히 문제가 됩니다. 더욱이, 혈관망과 기계적 자극이 결여된 오가노이드는 생리학적 성숙과 기능적 복잡성을 달성하지 못합니다.
******표 1. 오가노이드 및 3D 조직 배양에서의 확산 한계******
분자 (Molecule) 3D 조직 내 대략적 확산 한계 생물학적 의미 참고문헌 **산소 (O₂)** ~100–200 μm 한계 거리 이상에서 저산소증 및 세포 사멸 (4) **영양분 (예: 포도당)** ~200–400 μm 에너지 결핍, 증식 및 분화 장애 (5) **노폐물 제거** ~200–400 μm 독성 부산물 축적으로 인한 기능 저하 (5)
### 1. 오가노이드 모델의 관류 및 혈관형성
관류 기반 마이크로유체 플랫폼은 정적 시스템의 한계를 넘어 오가노이드 배양을 발전시킵니다. 지속적이고 제어된 유체 흐름을 제공함으로써, 이러한 플랫폼은 혈관형성에 활용될 수 있으며, 영양분과 산소 공급을 향상시키고 조직 성숙을 지원하는 전단 응력(shear stress)을 가할 수 있습니다.
💡 **관련 정보**: [관류 기술(perfusion techniques) 및 활용 사례(use cases)에 대해 자세히 알아보세요. ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/ "관류 기술(perfusion techniques) 및 활용 사례(use cases)에 대해 자세히 알아보세요. ")
대표적인 예로, 신장 오가노이드에 관류를 적용한 결과 혈관형성과 조직 발달이 현저히 향상되었습니다. 제어된 높은 유체 전단 응력(1-4.27 mL/min) 조건에서 신장 오가노이드는 혈관 면적의 5배 증가(PECAM1 전사체), 혈관 분기의 10배 증가, 그리고 내피 유전자 발현의 상승을 보였습니다. 이러한 결과는 정적 조건에서 달성된 결과를 능가했습니다(그림 4). 이 모델에서 오가노이드는 채널 내에 고정되었으며 폐쇄형 채널에서 관류되었습니다(6).
****그림 4**: 정적, 저유체 전단 및 고유체 전단 조건에서 전체 마운트 오가노이드 배양물의 혈관 마커에 대한 공촛점 3D 이미지. 스케일 바=100µm.**
오가노이드 혈관형성을 위한 또 다른 접근법은 칩 내에 관류 가능 구성요소를 포매(embedding)하는 것입니다. 혈관화된 신장 오가노이드-온-칩 모델에서, 내피세포 및 오가노이드 구획을 위해 별도의 채널이 설계되었습니다. 이 구성은 내피세포가 오가노이드 혈관망과 기능적 연결을 형성할 수 있게 하여, 분자 교환, 세포 이동 및 구조적 통합을 가능하게 했습니다(7).
보다 포괄적인 검토에 따르면, 혈관형성은 오가노이드가 수백 마이크로미터를 초과하는 크기로 성장하고 발달의 고급 단계에 도달하는 데 필수적입니다. 혈관 지원이 없으면 확산 한계로 인해 중심부 괴사, 제한된 세포 다양성 및 미성숙한 조직 구조가 초래됩니다(8). 마찬가지로, 최근 연구에서는 폐, 뇌, 신장 및 종양 조직을 포함한 다양한 모델에서 장기적 생존력과 생리학적 기능을 지원하기 위해 관류 가능 혈관망 및 유체력을 통합한 “오가노이드-온-칩”(OOCoid) 시스템의 개발이 강조되고 있습니다(9).
****그림 5**: (A) 트랜스웰(transwell) 및 칩 위에서 배양된 신장 오가노이드를 보여주는 DAPI-MCAM-PECAM 공동 염색(co-staining)의 면역형광 이미지. 스케일 바=200 µm. (B) 전체 면적의 백분율을 기준으로 한 신장 오가노이드의 MCAM 및 PECAM 발현에 대한 통계 분석.**
### 2. 성숙 및 분화를 위한 오가노이드의 동적 배양
[전단 응력 (shear stress)](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/ "전단 응력 (shear stress)"), 정수압 (hydrostatic pressure), 주기적 인장력 (cyclic tension) 과 같은 기계적 자극 (mechanical cues) 은 오가노이드 발달 및 기능의 조절 인자로 인정받고 있습니다. 세포는 기계적 전환 (mechanotransduction) 경로를 통해 이러한 기계적 힘을 감지하고 반응하며, 이는 유전자 발현과 조직 조직화 (tissue organization) 에 영향을 미칩니다 (10). 기계적 전환의 잘 규명된 측면 중 하나는 세포가 주변 세포외기질 (ECM) 의 물리적 특성—기질 강성 (matrix stiffness) 및 접착 리간드 (adhesive ligands) 의 존재 포함—과 상호작용하는 과정으로, 이 두 요소 모두 줄기세포의 운명 결정 및 계통 분화 (lineage commitment) 에 직접적인 영향을 미칩니다.
그러나 Matrigel 과 같은 생물학적 ECM 에서 발생하는 배치 간 변이 (batch-to-batch variability) 로 인해 이러한 특성의 표준화는 여전히 어렵습니다. 이는 단백질 조성 및 기계적 강성 모두에 영향을 미치며, 오가노이드 연구의 재현성과 확장성을 복잡하게 만듭니다 (11).
기질 자체를 넘어, 배양 환경—특히 관류 방식 및 파라미터—에 의해 가해지는 기계적 응력 또한 오가노이드 성숙의 핵심 결정 인자입니다. 지속적이고 제어된 층류 (laminar flow) 조건에서 배양된 중뇌 (midbrain) 오가노이드는 오비탈 쉐이킹 (orbital shaking) 조건에서 배양된 오가노이드에 비해 도파민성 뉴런으로의 분화가 향상되었으며, 괴사 코어 형성이 현저히 감소했습니다 (12). 이는 생리학적으로 관련성 있는 오가노이드 모델을 달성하기 위해 동적 기계적 환경이 필수적임을 시사합니다.
****그림 6**: 세 가지 다른 야생형 (WT) NESC 계통에서 유래하고, 쉐이킹 또는 유체 조건으로 배양된 대표적 인간 중뇌 오가노이드 (hMO) 절편의 핵에 대한 Hoechst 염색 (흰색). 노란색 점선은 “괴사 코어 (dead core)” 영역을 나타냄 (스케일 바 = 200 μm).**
### 3. 고처리량 균일 배양을 위한 오가노이드 캡슐화
압력 기반 제어 시스템을 활용한 액적 마이크로유체공학 (droplet microfluidics) 은 세포를 균일한 나노리터 (nanoliter) 규모 액적 내에 캡슐화할 수 있게 합니다. 이러한 시스템은 비교 연구 및 약물 스크리닝에 필수적인 오가노이드 유닛을 생산하는 데 활용될 수 있습니다. 예를 들어, 마이크로비드 기반 액적 플랫폼은 액적 내에 세포외기질 성분을 포매 (embedding) 할 수 있게 하여, 3D 배양 충실도 (fidelity) 및 세포-기질 상호작용을 향상시킵니다 (13).
****그림 7**: (a) 6 시간 후 이중 에멀전 (double emulsion) 액적 내에 캡슐화된 인간 중간엽 줄기세포 (hMSC) 스페로이드의 위상차 이미지. (b) 1H,1H,2H,2H-퍼플루오로-1-옥탄올을 사용하여 에멀전에서 방출된 후 6 시간 시점의 스페로이드에 대한 생사 염색 (live/dead staining). 생세포는 칼세인 AM (녹색) 으로, 사세포는 프로피디움 요오다이드 (적색) 로 염색됨. (13)**
## 요약 및 향후 방향
오가노이드 연구에 제어된 유체 흐름 (controlled flow) 을 통합한 것은 정적 3D 배양의 오랫동안 지속된 한계를 극복하는 데 있어 중추적인 진전을 의미합니다. 기존 오가노이드 시스템은 확산 장벽에 의해 제한되며, 이로 인해 생화학적 미세환경의 제어 불량 및 생체역학적 자극의 부재가 초래됩니다. 이 두 요소 모두 조직 성숙과 확장성을 저해합니다.
폐쇄형 채널 마이크로유체 플랫폼, 액적 기반 캡슐화 시스템, 그리고 마이크로비드 워크플로우는 정밀한 유량 제어와 결합될 때, 엄격한 환경 제어 및 기계적 힘의 미세 조정을 가능하게 합니다. 이러한 특징들은 복잡한 장기 발달 모델링, 혈관형성 유도, 그리고 영역 특이적 세포 운명 결정을 이끌어내는 데 핵심적입니다. 전단 응력 및 압력과 같은 기계적 자극은 이제 오가노이드 구조, 생존력 및 기능적 분화—특히 뇌, 신장 및 혈관 모델에서—에 상당한 영향을 미친다는 것이 입증되었습니다.
앞으로의 연구 방향은 생체 내 장기 형성 (in vivo organogenesis) 을 더욱 정밀하게 모사하기 위해 마이크로유체 시스템 내 시공간적 신호 구배 (spatiotemporal signaling gradients) 와 같은 추가 동적 파라미터의 통합에 집중할 것입니다.
오가노이드-온-칩 시스템과 실시간 바이오센서, 그리고 다중 장기 인터페이싱을 위한 모듈형 플랫폼 (“바디-온-칩”, body-on-chip) 의 결합은 질병 모델링, 약물 발굴 및 맞춤형 의학 분야에서 오가노이드의 임상적 활용 가능성 (translational potential) 을 향상시킬 것으로 기대됩니다. ECM 재료의 표준화 및 액적 마이크로유체공학의 자동화에 대한 지속적인 노력은 임상 및 산업적 응용에서의 재현성과 확장성을 위해 필수적일 것입니다.
더 많은 정보나 기술적 논의를 원하시면 언제든지 저희에게 문의해 주시기 바랍니다.
[📧 연락처 정보](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
## 관련 제품 및 전문 분야
- [
### 미세유체에서의 흐름 제어 기술: 신뢰할 수 있는 결과를 위한 적절한 펌프 선택
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
- [
### 오간온어칩 연구에서의 압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
- [
### 왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
## References
1\. Gunti S, Hoke ATK, Vu KP, London NR. Organoid and Spheroid Tumor Models: Techniques and Applications. Cancers. 2021 Jan;13(4):874.
2\. Salmon I, Grebenyuk S, Fattah ARA, Rustandi G, Pilkington T, Verfaillie C, et al. Engineering neurovascular organoids with 3D printed microfluidic chips. Lab Chip. 2022;22(8):1615–29.
3\. Laperrousaz B, Porte S, Gerbaud S, Härmä V, Kermarrec F, Hourtane V, et al. Direct transfection of clonal organoids in Matrigel microbeads: a promising approach toward organoid-based genetic screens. Nucleic Acids Res. 2018 July 6;46(12):e70.
4\. Ziółkowska-Suchanek I. Mimicking Tumor Hypoxia in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Employing Three-Dimensional In Vitro Models. Cells. 2021 Jan;10(1):141.
5\. Kim D, Kim W, Sharma H, Lee S, Park C, Park S, et al. Ultra-Tiny Gelatin Nanoparticles-Assisted 3D Stem Cell Spheroids for Engineering Tissue Regeneration. Adv Healthc Mater. n/a(n/a):2501882.
6\. Homan KA, Gupta N, Kroll KT, Kolesky DB, Skylar-Scott M, Miyoshi T, et al. Flow-enhanced vascularization and maturation of kidney organoids in vitro. Nat Methods. 2019 Mar;16(3):255–62.
7\. Bas-Cristóbal Menéndez A, Du Z, van den Bosch TPP, Othman A, Gaio N, Silvestri C, et al. Creating a kidney organoid-vasculature interaction model using a novel organ-on-chip system. Sci Rep. 2022 Nov 30;12(1):20699.
8\. Zhang S, Wan Z, Kamm RD. Vascularized organoids on a chip: strategies for engineering organoids with functional vasculature. Lab Chip. 2021 Feb 9;21(3):473–88.
9\. Wang X, Bijonowski BM, Kurniawan NA. Vascularizing Organoids to Promote Long-Term Organogenesis on a Chip. Organoids. 2023 Dec;2(4):239–55.
10\. Morena F, Armentano I, Montanucci P, Argentati C, Fortunati E, Montesano S, et al. Design of a nanocomposite substrate inducing adult stem cell assembly and progression toward an Epiblast-like or Primitive Endoderm-like phenotype via mechanotransduction. Biomaterials. 2017 Nov 1;144:211–29.
11\. Taghizadeh M, Taghizadeh A, Kim HS. Mechanobiological engineering strategies for organoid culture. APL Bioeng. 2025 July 18;9(3):031501.
12\. Berger E, Magliaro C, Paczia N, Monzel AS, Antony P, Linster CL, et al. Millifluidic culture improves human midbrain organoid vitality and differentiation. Lab Chip. 2018 Oct 9;18(20):3172–83.
13\. (PDF) One drop at a time: Toward droplet microfluidics as a versatile tool for single-cell analysis. ResearchGate \[Internet\]. \[cited 2025 Aug 8\]; Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/278401605\_One\_drop\_at\_a\_time\_Toward\_droplet\_microfluidics\_as\_a\_versatile\_tool\_for\_single-cell\_analysis
---
### [왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/why-control-shear-stress/)
**Published:** August 11, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
[**전문 지식 전문 읽기(영어 버전)**](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-review-why-is-it-important-to-control-shear-stress.pdf)
[**전단 응력 계산기 사용하기**](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/?post_type=resource&p=35610)
## 전단 응력 물리적 정의
전단 응력은 표면에 접선 방향으로 작용하는 힘입니다. 유체의 전단 응력은 유체의 속도와 점성도에 따라 달라집니다. 따라서 뉴턴 유체의 경우 간단히 다음과 같은 식으로 표현할 수 있습니다:
τ = η \* (∂v/∂z)
여기서 η는 점성도(Poise, g/cm·s), ∂v/∂z는 속도 기울기 또는 전단 속도(s⁻¹)입니다.
미세유체 채널에서 층류가 흐를 경우 속도 분포는 포물선 형태를 띱니다. 중심부에서 속도가 가장 빠르고, 채널 벽면에서는 가장 느립니다. 결과적으로 전단 응력은 벽면에서 가장 크고, 채널 중심에서는 가장 작습니다(그림 1).
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2025/08/ko-flow-velocity-shear-rate-distribution-of-laminar-flow.jpg)**그림 1 원형 채널 내 층류의 흐름 속도 분포왼쪽 및 전단 속도 분포오른쪽 도식**
실험 조건에 맞는 전단 응력을 계산하려면 저희 [전단 응력 계산기를 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/?post_type=resource&p=35610 "전단 응력 계산기를 ")사용해 보세요. 시스템에 적용할 유속 또는 압력, 미세유체 칩 및 튜빙의 치수를 입력하면 세포 배양에 적합한 전단 응력을 정확하게 제어할 수 있습니다.
## 세포에 미치는 전단 응력의 영향
일반적인 체외 실험에서 세포는 배지 흐름이 없는 페트리디쉬에 배양됩니다. 이는 세포의 실제 행동을 충분히 반영하지 못하는 불완전한 모델입니다. 살아있는 생물체에서는 세포들이 유체의 움직임으로 인해 지속적으로 전단 응력을 받습니다. 따라서 체외 시스템에 전단 응력을 도입하는 것은 다음과 같은 이유로 필수적입니다:
- **기계적 자극**: 유체 흐름은 세포에 기계적 자극을 제공하여 특히 내피 세포 및 다른 부착 세포 배양에서 유체 방향으로 세포가 길어지게 합니다(그림 2).
- **내피 세포 반응**: 내피 세포는 전단 응력에 매우 민감하게 반응하며, 세포골격 재구성이 일어납니다\[2\]. 이러한 반응은 혈관의 항상성 유지와 혈관신생 및 혈관 재형성과 같은 과정에 영향을 미칩니다\[3\].
- **암세포 역학**: 암 연구에서 전단 응력은 전이 과정인 혈관외 이행 및 간질 이동과 같은 과정에 기여하는 것으로 알려져 있습니다. 정적 조건에서는 약 9.4 μm/h이던 종양 세포의 평균 혈관 내 이동 속도가 혈류 조건에서는 약 12.5 μm/h로 증가하는 것이 관찰되었습니다\[4\].
- **생리적 관련성 및 정확성 향상**: 층류 조건에서 배양된 HUVEC(인체 제대 정맥 내피 세포)는 궤도 진탕 배양 조건보다 조직 인자 발현이 더 생리적으로 유사한 것으로 나타났습니다\[5\].
- **기관 특이적 전단 응력**: 다양한 조직은 서로 다른 생리적 전단 응력 수준에 노출됩니다. 따라서 체외 실험을 설계하거나 모델링할 때 이 점을 반드시 고려해야 합니다.
그림 2 전단 응력 하에서 세포 형태 및 조직 변화
세포 유형전단 응력 값 (Pa)전단 응력 값 (dyn/cm²)동맥 \[6\] 1-210-20정맥\[6\] 0.1 -0.61-6小쥐 배아 신장 \[7\] 0.04 – 0.50.4 – 5인간 신장 \[8\] 0.03 -0.120.3 -1.2폐포 상피 세포 \[9\] 0.4 -1.54 -15
\*더 많은 값은 [전문가 리뷰 전문 다운로드를 참](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-review-why-is-it-important-to-control-shear-stress.pdf "전문가 리뷰 전문 다운로드를 참")조하세요.## 세포 미세생리 시스템에서 전단 응력을 제어하는 방법
미세유체 기술의 발전으로 인해 유속과 미세채널 형상의 정밀한 제어가 가능해졌고, 이를 통해 세포에 가해지는 전단 응력을 세밀하게 조절할 수 있게 되었습니다. 초기 연구에서는 특정 수준의 전단 응력이 내피 세포의 구조와 기능에 영향을 미친다는 것이 입증되었습니다\[10\].
지난 20년 동안 미세유체 기술의 발전은 이러한 효과에 대한 이해를 심화시켰습니다. 최근에는 미세유체 칩 내에서 기능적 조직을 배양하는 오간-온-칩 모델의 개발을 통해, 제어된 기계적 자극이 세포 행동 조절과 감염인자 및 약물 반응 조절에 필수적임이 입증되고 있습니다\[11\].
**전단 응력 제어의 주요 변수
- **기판의 경도 및 탄성:** 미세유체 칩 기판의 기계적 특성은 세포가 전단응력을 인식하는 방식에 영향을 줍니다.
- **정밀한 유량 제어:** 장기간 동안 안정적이고 재현 가능한 유량을 유지하여 일관된 전단 응력 노출을 보장합니다.
- **미세채널 구조:** 미세채널의 모양, 너비, 높이는 세포에 작용하는 전단 응력 분포에 직접적인 영향을 미칩니다.
- **유체 점성도:** 배지의 점성도는 전단 응력에 영향을 줍니다. BSA 농도, 첨가제, 온도 변화가 배지 점성도에 영향을 줄 수 있습니다.
- **맥동 유동 vs. 일정 유동:** 생리적 조건을 모방하기 위해서는 맥동 또는 진동 유동과 같은 동적 유동 패턴이 필요합니다.
- **세포 밀도 및 부착:** 세포의 밀도와 부착 상태는 전단 응력에 대한 반응에 영향을 미칩니다. 최적화된 seeding 조건은 균일한 노출을 보장합니다.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
## 왜 Fluigent와 협력해야 하나요?
Fluigent는 복잡한 과정을 단순화하는 도구들을 통해 오간-온어-칩(Organ-on-a-chip) 연구를 혁신하고 있습니다.
Fluigent의 압력 기반 펌프는 유량 모니터링 및 제어 기능과 결합되어, 마이크로유체 환경에서 세포나 조직에 가해지는 전단응력을 정밀하게 제어할 수 있습니다.
사용자만의 맞춤형 칩을 제작하든, 상용 칩을 활용하든,
Fluigent와 함께 재현 가능하고 생리적으로 의미 있는 결과를 달성해 보세요.
[📩 문의하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
## Related ressources
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
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### 정밀 유체 제어를 위한 미세유체 솔루션
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 고유량제어를위한미세유체
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
## 참고문헌
\[1\] Helmke B.P, Rosen A.B & Davies P.F. Mapping mechanical strain of an endogenous cytoskeletal network in living endothelial cells. Biophys J (2003). doi: 10.1016/S0006-3495(03)75074-7
\[2\] Malek A.M & Izumo S. Mechanism of endothelial cell shape change and cytoskeletal remodeling in response to fluid shear stress. J Cell Sci (1996). doi: 10.1242/jcs.109.4.713
\[3\] Campinho P, Vilfan A, Vermot J. Blood flow forces in shaping the vascular system: a focus on endothelial cell behavior. Front Physiol (2020) doi: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00552
\[4\] Hajal, C., et al. The effects of luminal and trans-endothelial fluid flows on the extravasation and tissue invasion of tumor cells in a 3D in vitro microvascular platform. Biomaterials (2021). doi: 10.1016/j. biomaterials.2020.120470
\[5\] Rochier A., et al. Laminar shear, but not orbital shear, has a synergistic effect with thrombin stimulation on tissue factor expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. J Vasc Surg (2011). doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.002
\[6\] Lipowsky H.H., et al. The distribution of blood rheological parameters in the microvasculature of cat mesentery. Circ Res. (1978). doi: 10.1161/01.res.43.5.738
\[7\] Kimura H., et al. Effect of fluid shear stress on in vitro cultured ureteric bud cells. Biomicrofluidics (2018). doi: 10.1063/1.5035328.
\[8\] Ross E.J., et al. Three dimensional modeling of biologically relevant fluid shear stress in human renal tubule cells mimics in vivo transcriptional profiles. Sci Rep (2021). doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-93570-5
\[9\] Flitney E.W., et al. Insights into the mechanical properties of epithelial cells: the effects of shear stress on the assembly and remodeling of keratin intermediate filaments. FASEB J (2009). doi: 10.1096/ fj.08-124453
\[10\] Dewey C.F Jr. et al. The dynamic response of vascular endothelial cells to fluid shear stress. *J Biomech* Eng (1981). doi: 10.1115/1.3138276.
\[11\] Thompson et al. Mechanical Stimulation: A Crucial Element of Organ-on-Chip Models. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology (2020). doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.602646
---
### [오간온어칩 연구에서의 압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
**Published:** September 9, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 오간온어칩 실험을 위한 마이크로유체 유동 제어기
오간온어칩(Organ-on-a-Chip, OOC)는 미세 규모의 장치를 이용해 인체 장기의 구조와 기능을 모사하는 데 사용된다\[1\]. 일반적으로 OOC 장치는 특정 장기의 반응을 정밀하게 재현하도록 설계된 마이크로유체 채널 내에 세포 또는 장기유사체(organoids)를 포함하고 있다.
장기의 미세환경과 세포 간 상호작용을 재현함으로써, OOC 기술은 전통적인 2차원 세포 배양이나 동물 모델에 비해 장기 기능, 질병 메커니즘 및 약물 반응을 연구하는 데 있어 훨씬 생리학적으로 유의미한 모델을 제공한다.
*그림 1: 배지 관류 및 순환 시스템이 통합된 OOC 장치의 개념도*
OOC 장치에서 생리학적 미세환경을 정확하게 재현하는 데 핵심적인 요소 중 하나는 영양분을 공급하고 약물, 대사산물, 전사 조절 인자 등을 수송하기 위한 정밀한 액체 관류 시스템이다. 연구자들은 다양한 유동 제어 기술을 활용할 수 있으며, 각각의 기술은 고유한 장점과 한계를 가지고 있다(표 1).
### 1. Peristaltic pumps
Peristaltic pumps는 유연한 튜브를 압착하여 액체를 밀어내는 양압식 작동 원리를 사용해 튜브 내에서 맥동 흐름(pulsatile flow)을 생성한다. 생물학 분야에서 널리 쓰이며, 설치가 간편하고 다양한 종류의 액체와 호환된다는 장점이 있다. 액체가 튜브 내부에만 접촉하므로 오염 위험이 낮다. 그러나 유속 조절 정밀도와 압력 제어 성능이 낮으며, 맥동 흐름 특성 때문에 혈관화 모델과 같은 민감한 응용 분야에서는 부적합할 수 있다.
### 2. 주사기 펌프(Syringe Pumps)
주사기 펌프는 모터로 구동되는 기계식 장치로, 하나 이상의 주사기를 이용해 액체를 정확하게 주입한다. 사용자 인터페이스가 직관적이어서 유속, 주입량, 주입 시간 등의 파라미터를 쉽게 설정하고 조정할 수 있다.
프로그래밍을 통해 연속 흐름뿐 아니라 간헐적 흐름도 구현할 수 있어, 특정 유동 패턴이 요구되는 실험에 유리하다.
하지만 다음과 같은 한계점이 존재한다.
- 유속 제어 정밀도와 반응 속도가 낮음
- 주사기 용량이 제한적이어 실험 중 주기적인 재충전이 필요함
- 액체가 주사기 내부와 직접 접촉하므로 오염 위험이 높음
- 관류 배지를 지속적으로 재활용하기 어렵다는 점
지속적으로 관류 매체를 재활용하기는 어렵다。
### 3.압력 기반 유동 제어기(Pressure flow controller)
압력 기반 유동 제어기는 공압 시스템을 이용해 압력을 발생시키고, 이를 통해 마이크로유체 장치 내에서 액체의 흐름을 유도한다. 이 기술의 장점으로는 높은 유속 안정성과 빠른 반응 속도를 꼽을 수 있다. 연속 흐름뿐 아니라 맥동 흐름도 제공 가능하며, 다중 장기 시스템(Multi-organ system)과의 통합도 용이하다. 적절한 관류 기술의 선택은 OOC 모델이 요구하는 유속, 압력, 유동 프로파일, 맥동성, 세포 친화성 등의 구체적인 조건에 따라 달라진다.
**표 1: OOC에 사용되는 다양한 마이크로유체 기술 비교**
퍼이스테릭 펌프(Peristaltic Pump)주사기 펌프(Syringe Pump)압력 구동 펌프(Pressure driven Pump)**유동 안정성 및 정밀도**낮음 중간 높음 **시간 반응성**높음낮음높음 ****액체 재순환 가능성****☑️✖️☑️ (L-스위치 지원)****소량 액체 주입 가능성****낮음높음 중간 ****샘플 교반 여부****☑️✖️☑️******복잡한 유동 프로파일 생성 가능성******✖️✖️☑️ [(예: LineUp 시리즈)](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "(예: LineUp 시리즈)")
### 왜 오간온어칩(Organ-on-Chip) 실험에 압력 제어를 사용해야 할까요?
[마이크로유체 압력 제어 기술](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "마이크로유체 압력 제어 기술")을 통해 연구자들은 마이크로유체 장치 내 세포와 조직이 받는 유속, 전단 응력, 기계적 자극을 정밀하게 조절하고 생체 내 조건과 유사하게 재현할 수 있습니다. 생리학적 환경을 보다 정확하게 모사함으로써 실험 결과의 신뢰성과 재현성을 크게 향상시킬 수 있습니다.
압력은 유동의 본질적인 원동력이므로, 이를 조절함으로써 유체 역학을 미세하게 조정할 수 있으며, 생리학적 농도 기울기를 형성하고 세포의 행동, 분화 및 기능에 영향을 미치는 목표 지향적인 기계적 자극을 제공할 수 있습니다. 이러한 능력은 혈관 내 전단 응력 프로파일에서부터 간질 압력 분포에 이르기까지 복잡한 미세환경을 구축하는 핵심이 됩니다.
오간온어칩 장치 내에서 약물 전달과 관류를 정밀하게 제어하려면 정밀한 압력 조절이 필수적입니다. 이를 통해 세포 및 조직에 약물, 독성 물질 또는 기타 물질을 정량적으로 노출시킬 수 있어, 장기 기능 및 반응에 대한 영향을 평가할 수 있습니다.
## 오간온어칩 실험 시 고려 사항
OOC 장치의 배지 관류는 영양소와 노폐물의 대류 운반을 위한 농도 기울기를 유지하는 순환 시스템 역할을 합니다\[2\]. 오간온어칩 장치에 연결할 마이크로유체 액체 관류 시스템을 선택할 때는 다음의 여러 요소를 고려해야 합니다.
- ****유속, 압력 제어 및 맥동성****
생리학적 미세환경을 재현하기 위해서는 연구 대상 장기 시스템에 따라 생체 내 조건을 정확히 모사해야 합니다. 폐의 호흡 운동과 공기 흐름을 모사하는 폐-온-칩(lung-on-chip) 모델의 경우, 낮은 수준에서 중간 정도의 유속(분당 수 마이크로리터)과 부드러운 압력 조건이 필요할 수 있으며, 이를 통해 호흡 역학과 폐포 미세환경을 정확하게 시뮬레이션할 수 있습니다\[3\]. 반면 심장-온-칩(heart-on-chip) 모델과 같은 응용 분야는 심장의 리듬적인 수축을 모사하기 위해 맥동 흐름이 필요하며, 분당 수십~수백 마이크로리터의 높은 유속과 중간에서 높은 압력 제어 능력이 요구되어 생리학적인 심장 펌프 작용을 재현할 수 있습니다.
- ****세포 생존율 및 전단 응력****
OOC 시스템은 기계적 힘과 유체 조건에 민감한 살아있는 세포와 조직을 배양합니다. **[과도한 전단 응력](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/ "왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?")**은 세포의 생존율, 증식 및 기능에 부정적인 영향을 미칠 수 있습니다. 따라서 펌프 종류에 의해 발생하는 전단 응력 수준을 고려하고, 세포 손상을 최소화하면서도 적절한 유동을 유지할 수 있는 펌프를 선택하는 것이 중요합니다. 전단 응력에 민감한 신경 세포를 사용하는 뇌 모델의 경우, 세포 네트워크의 파괴나 손상을 유발할 수 있는 높은 전단 응력 조건을 피하고 유속을 정밀하게 제어하는 것이 매우 중요합니다\[4\].
- ****통합 및 호환성****
OOC 모델은 인체 내 다양한 장기 간의 상호작용을 모사하는 것을 목표로 합니다. 예를 들어, 약물 대사 및 독성 효과를 연구하기 위해 간-온-칩(liver-on-chip)과 폐-온-칩(lung-on-chip)을 직렬로 연결할 수 있습니다. 각 장기 모델에 사용되는 시스템은 서로 다른 칩 간의 유체 흐름과 정보 교환을 가능하게 하도록 최적화되어야 합니다. 일부 OOC 모델은 pH 측정, 산소 농도 조절, 전기적 활동 센서 등을 포함할 수도 있으므로, 마이크로유체 압력 제어기와의 호환성을 고려하는 것이 중요합니다. 또한 장기 배양과 이미징/분석 기술은 모든 OOC 실험에서 핵심 요소이므로, 마이크로유체 플랫폼과 생물안전작업대, 이미징 장비, 분석 장비 간의 호환성(위치, 샘플 접근성, 광학 투명성 등)도 신중히 검토해야 합니다.
- ****오염 위험****
체외(in vitro) 모델 개발에서 일관성 있고 재현 가능한 결과를 얻기 위해서는 무균 환경을 유지하는 것이 필수적입니다. 일부 펌프 설계는 액체가 내부 부품과 직접 접촉하게 되어 오염 위험이 높아질 수 있습니다. 오간온어칩(OOC) 실험에서는 액체가 내부 구성 요소와의 접촉을 최소화하거나 완전히 차단하는 펌프를 사용하는 것이 바람직합니다.
## 마이크로유체 압력 제어 이해하기
### OOC를 위한 압력 제어기
[마이크로유체 시스템에서는](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/ "마이크로유체 시스템에서는") 동적 미세환경을 시뮬레이션하고, 장기 실험을 위한 안정적인 조건을 유지하며, 유동 방향을 정밀하게 제어할 수 있도록 서로 협업하는 다양한 구성 요소들이 있습니다.
**구성 요소** **기능** **OOC 시스템에서의 역할****압력 공급원** 유체 이동의 원동력인 압력을 생성하고 조절조직/장기 모델을 통한 배지 관류**압력 및 유량 센서**마이크로채널 내부의 압력과 유속을 실시간으로 모니터링민감한 세포에 손상을 주지 않으면서 생리학적 압력/유동 조건 유지**압력 제어기**센서의 피드백을 기반으로 유동을 조정하여 설정된 조건 유지안정적인 장기 배양 및 칩 내 환경 변화(예: 세포 과성장으로 인한 막힘)에 대한 동적 반응**밸브(Valves)**마이크로채널 내 유체의 흐름을 유도, 개방 또는 차단다중 분석, 배지 재순환, 시간 제어 자극, 다중 장기 상호작용 연구 가능**피드백 제어 시스템(예: 소프트웨어 제어)**실시간 데이터를 활용해 압력 또는 유량을 동적으로 조정맥동 흐름 구현, 자동화된 워크플로우 지원, 생리적 동
이러한 구성 요소들을 통합함으로써 연구자들은 Fluigent의 마이크로유체 압력 제어 시스템(그림 2)을 효과적으로 활용하여 오간온어칩(OOC) 내에서 배지를 순환시키며 정밀한 유체 환경을 구현할 수 있습니다.
이 설정은 Beonchip과의 협업을 통해 검증되었으며, 기존의 퍼이스테릭 펌프와 비교하여 유동 안정성이 세포 행동에 미치는 영향을 평가하였습니다. 특히 내피세포는 유속의 미세한 변화에도 매우 민감하기 때문에, 오간온어칩 연구에서 생리학적으로 의미 있는 결과를 얻기 위해서는 일정한 전단 응력을 유지하는 것이 매우 중요합니다
[전체 웨비나 시청하기: 장기-온-어-칩: 차세대 세포 배양 플랫폼으로의 진화](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-a-chip-and-cell-culture-platforms/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/schema-l-switch.png)***그림 2: 마이크로유체 압력 제어기를 사용한 Fluigent의 순환 시스템 예시. 두 개의 Flow EZ 장치가 두 개의 저장소(reservoir)에 연결되어 있으며, 튜빙이 L-SWITCH(배지 재순환 가능)를 통과하여 유량 측정 유닛과 마이크로유체 장치로 이어진다. 시스템 제어를 위해 사용되는 소프트웨어는 OxyGEN이다.***
## Omi: 통합형 오간온어칩(Organ-on-a-Chip) 유체 플랫폼
Fluigent의 검증된 압력 기반 마이크로유체 시스템을 기반으로 개발된 [Omi 플랫폼](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "Omi 플랫폼")은 오간온어칩(OOC) 실험 분야에서 복잡한 유체 조작 프로토콜을 관리하기 위한 모듈식 통합 솔루션으로, 압력 공급원, 센서, 밸브가 일체로 통합되어 있다.
기존의 Fluigent 시스템 기능을 확장하도록 설계된 Omi는 정밀한 압력 조절, 유동 제어, 자동 유체 전환을 위한 통합 인터페이스를 제공하여 관류, 순환, 주입, 샘플링과 같은 프로토콜을 재현성 있게 실행할 수 있도록 한다.
주요 기술적 특징:
- 약물, 독성 물질, 대사산물 등 다양한 물질의 테스트에 적합한 프로그래밍 가능한 유체 조작 루틴
- 범용 어댑터를 통한 다양한 칩과의 호환성으로, 다양한 OOC 장치와의 통합 가능
- 와이파이(Wi-Fi) 및 태블릿 애플리케이션(Android 기반)을 통한 원격 조작
- 원활한 모니터링과 실험 추적이 가능한 클라우드 기반 데이터 저장
그림 3 Fluigent의 오간온어칩Organ on a Chip 유체 플랫폼 Omi
## Fluigent 시스템을 활용한 오간온어칩 응용 분야
최근 몇 년간 오간온어칩(Organ-on-a-Chip, OOC) 모델은 놀라운 발전을 이루어 왔으며, 특히 신장-온-칩(kidney-on-a-chip)\[2\]\[8\], 폐-온-칩(lung-on-a-chip)\[3\], 심장-온-칩(heart-on-a-chip)\[5\], 피부-온-칩(skin-on-a-chip)\[6\], 췌장-온-칩(pancreas-on-a-chip)\[7\], 뇌-온-칩(brain-on-a-chip)\[8\] 등의 모델이 주목받고 있습니다. 이러한 시스템에서 발생하는 핵심 과제들을 해결하는 데 있어 압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술은 다음과 같은 방식으로 중요한 역할을 해왔습니다.
- 생체 내 관류 조건을 더욱 정확하게 모사하기 위한 제어된, 방향성 있는 유체 노출 제공
- 정밀한 약물 투여 연구를 위한 농도 기울기(gradient flow) 형성
- 복잡한 장기 구조를 재현하기 위한 다중 세포 유형의 공배양(co-culture) 및 공간적 층화 구조 구현
- 전통적인 동물 모델보다 생리학적으로 더 유의미한 모델을 구축하기 위한 인간 유래 세포 활용
마이크로유체 기반 OOC 플랫폼은 맞춤형 의학(personalized medicine), 고속 약물 스크리닝(high-throughput drug screening), 단일 세포 분석, 세포 간 상호작용 연구, 질병 모델링 분야의 연구를 혁신적으로 변화시키고 있으며, 이는 인간 생리학에 대한 깊이 있는 이해와 보다 효과적인 치료제 개발로 이어지고 있습니다.
**전 세계의 연구자들은 오간온어칩 모델을 개발하고 연구하기 위해 Fluigent의 마이크로유체 압력 제어 시스템을 널리 채택하고 있습니다.**
## Omi 사용자 후기
« I’m thrilled to share that I’ve used Omi on numerous occasions for my cell biology experiments as part of my PhD. **Omi is the simplest tool I’ve been able to use for on-chip organ recirculation and perfusion.** Everything is integrated into a single device, and the sterile consumables are easy to use, which greatly reduces the risk of contamination.
Tablet and web applications allow real-time monitoring of experiments in progress, making it the perfect user-friendly tool. I’m really excited to be able to develop new biological applications with Omi! »
Arthur Salles – PhD Student CNRS LIED – Université Paris Cité – France
## 혈관-온-칩(Vessel-on-a-Chip)
여러 개의 혈관-온-칩(Vessel-on-a-Chip, VoC) 모델에서 안정적인 유동 조건을 구현하는 데 따르는 과제들을 극복하기 위해, Valeria Orlova 연구팀\[10\]은 통합된 제어 파라미터 세트를 사용하여 최대 12개의 3D-VoC를 동시에 관류할 수 있는 유체 회로 기판(Fluidic Circuit Board, FCB)을 개발하였다.
Fluigent의 FlowEZ 압력 제어기, Link-Up 모듈 및 유량 센서를 통합함으로써, 이 시스템은 내피세포 기능과 혈관의 구조적 완전성을 유지하는 데 핵심적인 일관된 관벽 전단 응력(wall shear stress) 및 혈역학적 힘을 보장한다.
이러한 다중화 방식은 3D 혈관 모델의 확장성과 표준화를 위한 중요한 진전을 의미한다.
그림 4: 가열 블록 내 외부 배지 저장소에 연결된 테스트용 유체 회로 기판 사진 및 칩 상의 혈관에 대한 3D 재구성 이미지.
그림 5 3D VoC 매니폴드 내 유체 흐름을 보여주는 유동 회로 기판 애니메이션
## 암-온-칩(Cancer-on-a-Chip)
Van Gent 연구팀은 제어된 배양 조건 하에서 종양 조직 절편을 활용해 환자 치료 반응을 평가할 수 있는 암-온-칩(Cancer-on-a-Chip) 마이크로유체 플랫폼(그림 6)을 개발하였다\[11\]. 이들의 마이크로유체 압력 제어 시스템은 Fluigent의 고속 처리 플랫폼인 MFCS-EZ로 구성되어 있으며, 유방암 및 전립선암의 PDX(환자 유래 이식) 종양 절편의 생존율을 유지하고 최대 14일간 지속적인 증식을 달성하였다. 또한, 이들은 종양 절편에 대한 시스플라틴 화학요법의 반응을 연구하였다. 본 플랫폼은 향후 동일한 화학요법으로 치료될 환자 생검 조직을 이용한 연구에 활용될 수 있다.
****그림 6: (A) 조직 절편으로의 확산 및 관류를 보여주는 암-온-칩 시스템의 단면도. (A’) 배양 기간 동안 Fluigent 소프트웨어를 통해 연결된, Fluigent 마이크로유체 유동 제어 시스템에 연결된 암-온-칩 플랫폼 및 Fluigent FLOW UNIT-S 유량 센서.****
## 연골-온-칩(Cartilage-on-a-Chip)
Séverine le Gac 연구팀은 연골세포가 외부 자극(기계적 또는 화학적)에 어떻게 반응하는지를 시뮬레이션하고, 퇴행성 관절염과 같은 연골 질환의 유발 메커니즘을 이해하기 위해 마이크로유체 제어 시스템(MFCS-EZ, 2개의 스위치 및 스위치보드)을 활용한 연골-온-칩 모델을 개발하였다\[12\](그림 7). 이 설정은 3D 세포 배양에 기계적 자극을 적용하고, 자극 후 세포 반응을 현장에서 실시간으로 분석하는 동시에 동적 배양 조건을 구현한다.
***그림 7: 기계적 자극 후 연골세포의 변형.***
## 장-온-칩(Gut-on-a-Chip) 모델
릴 파스퇴르 연구소(Institut Pasteur de Lille)의 연구진은 장 건강 및 숙주-병원체 상호작용 연구를 위한 오간온어칩 기술 접근성을 높이기 위해, 저비용이면서 사용이 간편한 장-온-칩(Gut-on-Chip, GoC) 플랫폼인 3DP-µGut을 개발하였다.
기존의 GoC 시스템이 고가의 상용 칩, 고난이도 CAD 기술, 청정실 시설에 의존하는 것과 달리, 3DP-µGut은 표준 SLA 방식의 3D 프린터와 무료로 제공되는 설계 파일을 사용하여 제작된다. 이를 통해 저비용으로 반복 가능하고 이미징에 적합한 칩을 중간 규모로 생산할 수 있다.
이 모델은 Caco-2 세포를 이용하여 검증되었으며, 7일 후 3D 상피조직으로 분화되어 실제 장 조직 구조를 매우 유사하게 모사하였다. 개방형 설계로 인해 다양한 마이크로유체 시스템과 호환 가능하며, 검증 과정에서는 Fluigent의 통합 플랫폼 Omi 및 FlowEZ 압력 제어기가 사용되었다.
GoC 구현, 유동 제어 전략, 숙주-미생물군 상호작용 모델링 접근법에 대해 더 알고 싶다면:
****웨비나: 장-온-칩 모델을 중심으로 본 오간온어칩에서 유동의 중요성****
릴 파스퇴르 연구소의 전문가가 Omi 자동화 플랫폼을 기반으로 한 장-온-칩(GoC) 모델을 소개하며, 그 응용 분야와 장점을 설명합니다.
[웨비나 녹화본 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
## 결론
압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술은 정밀하고 안정적이며 반응성이 뛰어난 유체 조작을 제공함으로써 오간온어칩(OOC) 연구를 선도하는 핵심 기술이다. 다른 기술들과 비교할 때, 압력 기반 시스템은 생리학적 조건을 더욱 정확하게 재현하여 장기적인 세포 생존율, 실험의 재현성, 복잡한 유동 프로파일 구현을 지원한다. 혈관 전단 응력 시뮬레이션에서부터 다중 장기 상호작용까지, 압력 제어는 OOC 플랫폼에서 최적의 성능과 신뢰성을 보장한다. Fluigent의 통합 시스템과 같은 솔루션을 통해 연구자들은 자신들의 OOC 실험에 맞춤형 설정을 손쉽게 구현할 수 있게 되었다.
추가 정보 또는 기술 상담을 원하시면
[문의하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
## 관련 제품
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
더 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 정밀 유체 제어를 위한 미세유체 솔루션
더 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
## 관련 전문 기술
- [
### 왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?
더 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 고유량제어를위한미세유체
더 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
더 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## References 참고 문헌
1. Leung CM, de Haan P, Ronaldson-Bouchard K, et al. A guide to the organ-on-a-chip. Nat Rev Methods Primers. 2022;2:33. doi:10.1038/s43586-022-00118-6
2. Lee SKJ. Kidney-on-a-Chip: a new technology for predicting drug efficacy, interactions, and drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Curr Drug Metab. 2018;19(7):577–583.
3. Zamprogno P, Wüthrich S, Achenbach S. Second-generation lung-on-a-chip with an array of stretchable alveoli made with a biological membrane. Commun Biol. 2021;4:168.
4. Regmi S, Fu A, Luo K. High shear stresses under exercise condition destroy circulating tumor cells in a microfluidic system. *Sci Rep*. 2017;7:39975. doi:10.1038/srep39975.
5. Liu H, Bolonduro OA, Ning Hu JJ, Rao AA, Duffy BM, Huang Z, et al. Heart-on-a-Chip model with integrated extra- and intracellular bioelectronics for monitoring cardiac electrophysiology under acute hypoxia. Nano Lett. 2020;20(6):2585–2593.
6. Lukács B, Bajza Á, Kocsis D, Csorba A, Antal I, Ivan K, et al. Skin-on-a-Chip device for ex vivo monitoring of transdermal delivery of drugs—design, fabrication, and testing. Pharmaceutics. 2019;11(9):445.
7. Mun KS, Arora K, Huang Y. Patient-derived pancreas-on-a-chip to model cystic fibrosis-related disorders. Nat Commun. 2019;10:3124.
8. Raimondi LI, Tunesi M, Comar M, Albani D, Giordano C, et al. Organ-On-A-Chip in vitro models of the brain and the blood–brain barrier and their value to study the microbiota–gut–brain axis in neurodegeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2020;8:435.
9. Menéndez AC, Du Z, van den Bosch TPP, Othman A, Gaio N, Silvestri C, et al. Creating a kidney organoid vasculature interaction model using a novel organ-on-chip system. Sci Rep. 2022;12(1):20699
10. de Graaf MNS, Vivas A, Kasi DG, van den Hil FE, van den Berg A, van der Meer AD, Mummery CL, Orlova VV. Multiplexed fluidic circuit board for controlled perfusion of 3D blood vessels-on-a-chip. Lab Chip. 2023; 23**:68-181.
11. Chakrabarty S, Quiros-Solano WF, Kuijten MMP, Haspels B, Mallya S, Lo CSY, et al. A microfluidic cancer-on-chip platform predicts drug response using organotypic tumor slice culture. Cancer Res. 2022;82(3):510-520
12. Paggi CA, Hendriks J, Karperien M, Le Gac S. Emulating the chondrocyte microenvironment using multi-directional mechanical stimulation in a cartilage-on-chip. Lap Chip. 2022;22(9):1815-1828
---
### [약물 전달 분야의 마이크로플루이딕스: 정밀 의학의 새로운 시대](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/microfluidics-drug-delivery/)
**Published:** June 10, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
**목차:**
1. [약물 전달에서 마이크로플루이딕스와 기존 방법의 차이는 무엇인가요? ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#microfluidics "약물 전달에서 마이크로플루이딕스와 기존 방법의 차이는 무엇인가요? ")
2. [약물 운반체 합성을 개선하기 위한 마이크로플루이딕 기술 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#lnp "약물 운반체 합성을 개선하기 위한 마이크로플루이딕 기술 ")
3. [운반체 없이 약물을 전달하는 마이크로플루이딕 마이크로니들 시스템 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#microneedles)
4. [오가논-온-어-칩(Organ-on-a-Chip): 체외에서 약물 전달 모델링](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#in-vitro-models "오가논-온-어-칩(Organ-on-a-Chip): 체외에서 약물 전달 모델링")
5. [제약 연구에서의 마이크로플루이딕스 기반 약물 및 단백질 결정화 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-drug-delivery/#application-of-microfluidics "제약 연구에서의 마이크로플루이딕스 기반 약물 및 단백질 결정화 ")
## 약물 전달에서 마이크로플루이딕스는 기존 방법과 어떻게 다른가요?
경구 투여, 주사, 흡입과 같은 전통적인 약물 전달 방식은 오랫동안 리포좀 및 고분자 나노입자와 같은 약물 운반체 제조를 위해 기존 기술에 의존해 왔습니다.¹’² 이러한 시스템들은 약물의 용해도, 안정성, 표적 전달 능력을 향상시키는 것을 목표로 하지만, 그 제조 과정은 복잡하고 대량 생산이 어렵거나 정밀도 및 재현성이 떨어지는 경우가 많습니다. 낮은 생체 분포 특성과 생물학적 장벽이라는 문제점까지 더해지면서 많은 치료 물질들의 효과가 제한되고 있습니다. \[3\]
헬스케어 분야에서 마이크로플루이딕(microfluidics) 기술은 보다 효율적이고 통제된 약물 전달 시스템으로의 전환을 가능하게 하는 유망한 기술입니다. 마이크로미터 단위에서 유체를 조절할 수 있는 능력 덕분에, 마이크로플루이딕스는 고급 약물 운반체의 정밀하고 대량 생산이 가능하며 재현성 있게 제작할 수 있도록 해줍니다(그림 1). \[4,6\]
이 리뷰에서는 마이크로플루이딕스를 활용한 정밀 약물 전달 기술의 최근 발전을 다루며, 다음과 같은 세 가지 주요 영역으로 구성됩니다:
(a) 마이크로플루이딕 플랫폼을 통해 지질 기반 및 고분자 나노입자를 포함한 약물 운반체 제작;
(b) 최소 침습적 적용을 위한 마이크로니들 기술과 마이크로플루이딕스 통합;
(c) 결정화 기술 및 체외 전달 메커니즘 연구용 플랫폼 개발 등, 나노의학 및 약물 연구 분야에서의 마이크로플루이딕스의 폭넓은 응용.
그림 1 약물 운반체 제작을 위한 마이크로플루이딕 접근법 NDDS 나노약물전달시스템
출처 Zhang H 외 Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B 2023 13 8 32773299
## 마이크로플루이딕 기술은 어떻게 약물 전달 입자 합성을 개선하나요?
### 1. 지질 나노입자 합성을 위한 마이크로플루이딕 기술:
지질 기반 나노입자(Lipid-based nanoparticles, LNPs)는 생체적합성, 다양한 치료 물질을 포장할 수 있는 능력, 그리고 제어된 약물 방출을 가능하게 하는 점에서 유망한 약물 전달 시스템입니다. 특히 LNPs는 소수성 약물, 핵산 및 기타 민감한 분자 전달에 매우 유용합니다. 다음으로 약물 전달을 위한 LNPs 합성에 사용되는 마이크로플루이딕 기술을 소개합니다. \[7\]
- **마이크로플루이딕 유체 집속법 (Microfluidic Hydrodynamic Focusing, MHF):**
이 기술은 용매에 녹아 있는 지질의 중심 유로를 두고, 양쪽을 완충액의 유동층으로 둘러싸는 구조를 사용합니다. 지질 용액이 얇은 흐름으로 모이게 되면 빠른 확산이 일어나며, 이는 나노입자의 자가 조립(self-assembly)을 유도합니다(그림 2-A). 유량비(flow rate ratio, FRR)는 집속 정도를 결정하며, 이를 통해 입자의 특성을 정밀하게 조절할 수 있습니다. MHF는 스트림 구성(configuration)을 조정함으로써 친수성 약물의 동시 포집 또한 가능합니다. \[8,9\]
- **혼합 효율 향상을 위한 무질서 대류 혼합기 (Chaotic Advection Mixers):**
이러한 시스템은 격자 무늬(herringbone pattern)나 뱀 모양 경로 같은 특수 설계된 마이크로채널을 포함하며, 층류(laminar flow)를 교란시켜 유체층을 늘리고 접는 과정을 통해 빠른 혼합을 유도합니다(그림 2-B). 이러한 방식은 용매와 지질이 신속하게 혼합되어 균일한 나노입자 형성을 촉진합니다. 무질서 대류 혼합기는 빠른 혼합과 연속 흐름 작동의 장점을 결합합니다. \[10,12\]. 이 방법을 활용한 리포솜 제조의 전반적인 잠재력을 탐색해 보세요.
- **소용돌이 집속법 (Vortex Focusing):**
MHF와 혼합 효율 증대 기술의 하이브리드 형태로, 지질 용액이 축방향으로 주입되고 완충액이 접선 방향으로 들어가는 원추형 챔버를 이용합니다(그림 2-C). 발생하는 나선형 유동은 지질 유로를 집속하면서 동시에 회전 운동을 통해 혼합을 강화하여 단일 공정에서 효율적인 나노입자 생성을 가능하게 합니다. \[13,14\]
그림 2 마이크로플루이딕 기반 지질 나노입자 제조 기술
출처 Mehraji S 등 Lab Chip 2024 24 5 11541174
### 2. 고분자 나노입자의 마이크로플루이딕 합성:
고분자 나노입자(Polymeric nanoparticles, PNPs)는 다양한 구조적 유연성과 다양한 치료 물질을 포장할 수 있는 능력 덕분에 약물 전달 분야에서 점점 더 널리 사용되고 있습니다. 이에는 친수성 및 소수성 분자뿐 아니라 핵산과 단백질도 포함됩니다. 지질 기반 나노입자가 주로 지질의 자기 조립 구조를 기반으로 하는 반면, PNPs는 폴리(락트산-코-글리콜산)(PLGA), 폴리카프로락톤(PCL) 등과 같은 생분해성 또는 생체적합 고분자 물질로 구성됩니다. 이러한 고분자들은 매트릭스 형태의 나노구체(nanosphere)나 코어-쉘(core-shell) 구조의 나노캡슐(nanocapsule) 형태로 형성될 수 있으며, 다양한 생리활성 물질을 포장하는 데 유연성을 제공합니다. \[9,15\]
PNPs의 마이크로플루이딕 합성은 입자 크기, 입도 분포, 포집 효율 등 면에서 LNP 제조와 유사한 특징을 가지며, 매우 정밀한 제어가 가능합니다(그림 3). PNPs 합성을 위한 기술로는 유체 집속법(hydrodynamic focusing), 나노침전법(nanoprecipitation), 동축 흐름 시스템(coaxial flow system) 등이 있으며, 이들 모두는 LNP 합성에도 사용되는 공통된 방법들입니다. 주요 차이점은 사용되는 재료 조성과 용매 시스템에 있습니다. \[2,5,9,15,16 \]
그림 3 약물 전달용 고분자 나노입자
출처 Begines B 등 Nanomaterials 2020 10 7 1403
### 3. 드롭렛 기반 마이크로입자의 마이크로플루이딕 제조:
생체고분자(biopolymer)로 제작된 마이크로입자는 지속적인 약물 전달, 세포 치료, 생체 의학적 임플란트 분야에서 중요한 플랫폼으로 떠오르고 있습니다. 기존의 배치식(batch) 제조 방법은 종종 입자 크기 조절이 어렵고 재현성이 낮다는 문제가 있습니다. 마이크로플루이딕 기술은 균일한 마이크로입자를 정밀하게 제작할 수 있어 고품질의 약물 전달 시스템 구현에 기여하고 있습니다.
이 기술은 미세채널(microchannel) 내에서 드롭렛(droplet)을 생성하는 방식으로 이루어지며, 여기서 고분자 용액은 서로 혼합되지 않는 운반 유체(carrier fluid) 속에 포장됩니다. 이후 이러한 드롭렛은 가교결합(crosslinking), 용매 증발(solvent evaporation), 중합(polymerization) 등의 과정을 통해 경화됩니다. 미세채널의 기하학적 구조와 유동 조건은 드롭렛 크기와 생성 빈도를 정밀하게 조절할 수 있도록 세심하게 조정될 수 있습니다. \[5,9,17,19\]
이러한 방법들은 정밀도, 재현성, 다양한 약물 및 재료와의 호환성을 갖추고 있어 차세대 치료 시스템에 적합한 선택지로 각광받고 있습니다.
그림 4 리소자임lysozyme을 포장한 PLGA 마이크로비드 Secoya Technologies 제품
***표 1: 마이크로플루이딕 기술을 이용한 약물 포장 사례 (Parra Saldivar 등; Frontiers in Bioscience 2018, 10 (1), 74–91 참고하여 재구성함).***
사용된 재료 채널 기하학 구조 운반체 물질 약물 적용 분야 참고문헌 유리 공류(co-flow) Human serum albumin, poly(lactic acid) Doxorubicin 간암 치료 20PEEK 및 실리카 튜브 T-접합 Poly(methyl acrylate), poly(acrylamide) Ketoprofen, ranitidine 위 점막 자극 효과 억제 21실리콘 흐름 집속 PLGA Ciclosporin 면역억제 요법 22PDMS 헤링본 형태의 공류 Liposomes Propofol 마취제 23큐 Quartz 칩 흐름 집속 Hyaluronic acid, ethylenediamine Dexamethasone 중간엽 줄기세포의 세포 분화 24유리 공류 및 흐름 집속 Polycaprolactone, poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(ethylene glycol) Bovine serum albumin 단백질 치료 25PDMS T-접합 Poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate 5-fluorouracil 암 치료 26PMMA V-접합 Poly(methylsilsesquioxane)Itraconazole 항진균제 (감염 치 27## 마이크로플루이딕 기반 마이크로니들 시스템: 운반체 없는 약물 전달
마이크로플루이딕 기술은 운반체 없이 약물을 직접 전달하는 시스템의 발전을 가능하게 합니다. 마이크로플루이딕 플랫폼이 제공하는 정밀성과 제어력을 활용함으로써, 약물을 표적 부위에 직접 전달할 수 있어 기존의 약물 운반체 사용이 최소화됩니다. 이는 생체이용률(bioavailability) 향상과 표적 방출(targeted release)을 실현하는 더 효율적인 약물 전달 시스템을 구축합니다. 이러한 접근법에서 가장 유망한 요소 중 하나가 바로 마이크로니들(microneedles)로, 미세유체 장치에 고도로 통합되어 치료 물질의 전달을 최적화합니다. \[2,28,29\]
**마이크로니들(MNs):**
마이크로니들은 피부나 다른 조직을 관통하여 표적 약물 전달을 위한 소형 정밀 구조인 마이크로미터 크기의 바늘 배열을 이용하는 장치입니다. 이러한 마이크로니들은 전통적인 주사 및 경구 투여 방식 대신 무통(painless), 최소 침습(minimally invasive) 방식으로 약물을 투여할 수 있습니다. 마이크로플루이딕스가 제공하는 제어력은 약물의 국소적이고 조절 가능한 방출을 보장하며, 특히 소화관에서 분해될 수 있는 치료제의 생체이용률과 표적 효과를 개선하는 데 기여합니다.
마이크로니들의 종류 :
1. 솔리드 마이크로니들 (Solid MNs):
피부에 미세 채널을 생성한 후 약물을 국소적으로 도포하여 피부를 통해 수동 확산시키는 방식입니다. 일반적으로 실리콘, 금속, 고분자 재료로 제작됩니다.³⁰
2. 용해형 마이크로니들 (Dissolving MNs):
피부에 삽입되면 생분해되는 재료로 만들어져 약물을 직접 표적 조직에 방출합니다. 사용되는 재료로는 폴리비닐 알코올(PVA), 폴리비닐피롤리돈(PVP), 폴리락트산(PLA) 등이 있습니다.\[31\]
3. 하이드로겔 마이크로니들 (Hydrogel MNs):
팽윤성 고분자 재료로 구성되며, 피부에 삽입되었을 때 하이드로겔이 팽창하면서 약물을 방출합니다. 사용되는 재료에는 폴리에틸렌 글리콜(PEG), 폴리아크릴아마이드(PAAm), 키틴(chitosan) 등이 포함됩니다.\[32\]
4. 중공 마이크로니들 (Hollow MNs):
중앙이 뚫린 구조로 설계되어 바늘을 통해 체내로 약물을 직접 주입할 수 있도록 해줍니다. 일반적으로 유리, 실리콘, 금속, 고분자 재료로 제작됩니다.\[33,34\]
그림 5 마이크로니들의 종류 및 해당 약물 전달 메커니즘
출처 Zhang Y 등 Exploration 2023 3 1 20210170
## 약물 전달 평가를 위한 체외 모델
기존의 체외(in vitro) 모델과 인간 생리학의 복잡성 사이를 좁히기 위해, **오간온어칩(Organ-on-a-chip, OOC) 플랫폼**이 약물 전달 시스템 평가에 있어 강력한 도구로 부상했습니다. 이러한 모델은 동적인 인체 조직의 구조와 기능을 매우 정밀하게 재현하며, 약물의 이동, 흡수, 치료 반응에 대한 귀중한 정보를 제공합니다. 따라서 마이크로플루이딕스를 활용한 약물 전달 기술은 나노운반체가 생물학적 장벽을 어떻게 통과하는지를 연구하는 데 각광받고 있습니다. \[35,36\]
약물 운반체가 체내에 들어가면 표적 부위까지 가는 길은 여러 주요 생리적 장벽에 의해 방해를 받습니다. 이러한 장애물을 정확하게 모델링하고 이해하는 것은 안전하고 효과적인 약물 전달 시스템 개발에 필수적입니다. 마이크로플루이딕 OOC 플랫폼은 연구자가 이러한 장벽을 실시간으로 시뮬레이션하고 분석할 수 있는 고도로 제어된 환경을 제공합니다.
**주요 생물학적 장벽들 :**
- **혈뇌장벽(Blood–Brain Barrier, BBB):**
대부분의 치료제가 뇌에 도달하는 것을 차단하는 엄격히 조절된 인터페이스입니다. 마이크로플루이딕 BBB-on-a-chip 모델은 제어된 전단 흐름 하에서 내피세포, 아교세포, 주세포(pericytes)를 공배양하여 인간 BBB의 선택적 투과성과 밀접 접합(tight junction) 특성을 모방합니다. 이 시스템은 뇌 표적 약물 전달 시스템 평가에 매우 중요합니다. \[37\]
- **점막 확산 장벽(Mucosal Diffusion Barrier):**
위장관, 호흡기, 생식기 등에 존재하는 두꺼운 점액층은 이물질을 포착하거나 배제하는 역할을 합니다. 마이크로플루이딕 모델은 점액의 점성도와 분비 역학을 재현하여 경구 및 흡입 약물 전달에서 나노입자의 확산, 침투, 유지 특성을 실시간으로 관찰할 수 있습니다. \[38\]
- **세포 투과 장벽(Cellular Permeability Barrier):**
밀접 접합을 가진 상피 또는 내피 단일 세포층으로 구성되며, 세포 내(transcellular) 및 세포 간(paracellular) 수송을 조절합니다. 칩 기반 시스템은 세포 구조와 기계적 자극을 시뮬레이션하여 나노입자의 흡수, 수용체 매개 수송, 장벽 조절 등을 연구할 수 있습니다. \[39\]
- **생화학적 장벽(Biochemical Barrier):** 특히 장과 리소좀 환경에서는 효소와 pH 변화가 약물을 분해하거나 비활성화시킬 수 있습니다. 마이크로플루이딕 생화학 모델은 이러한 조건을 시뮬레이션하여 생리적으로 관련된 스트레스 조건 하에서 나노운반체의 안정성과 보호 효과를 평가할 수 있습니다.\[2\]
이러한 생물학적 장벽들을 마이크로플루이딕 오가논-온-어-칩 플랫폼에 통합함으로써, 보다 예측 가능하고 인간 생리학에 근접한 사전 임상 평가가 가능해집니다.
예를 들어, 장-온-칩(gut-on-a-chip) , 혈관-온-칩(vessel-on-a-chip) , 혈뇌장벽-온-칩(BBB-on-a-chip) 등의 장치는 마이크로플루이딕스를 활용한 정밀 약물 전달의 가능성을 입증하고 있습니다.
마이크로플루이딕스 기반 약물 전달 기술이 지속적으로 발전함에 따라, 이러한 플랫폼은 동물 모델 의존도를 줄이며, 나노의학 분야에서 약물의 약동학(pharmacokinetics), 약효학(pharmacodynamics), 치료 지수(therapeutic index)를 인간 생리학에 더욱 근접한 방식으로 평가하는 데 활용될 수 있습니다.
그림 6 2D 또는 3D 형태의 공액air liquid interface 세포 배양을 위한 내피 상피 장벽 형성
출처 BeOnChip
[](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
### 안구 약물 전달 응용 사례
안구 약물 전달 분야에서도 마이크로플루이딕 시스템을 활용해 동적인 안구 내 환경을 모방하는 사례가 증가하고 있습니다. 유량 제어 및 온도 조절 기능을 통합함으로써, 이러한 플랫폼은 안압 변동 및 안구 움직임 같은 생리 조건을 시뮬레이션할 수 있습니다. 이를 통해 이러한 변수들이 약물 제거 및 유지에 미치는 영향을 정밀하게 평가할 수 있습니다. 여러 체외 모델에서 자동 센싱과 유량 동기화 기술을 결합하면 제제 스크리닝의 재현성과 처리량을 향상시켜, 안구 내 약물 전달을 위한 보다 예측 가능하고 확장 가능한 테스트를 지원합니다.\[40\]
그림 7 안구 약물 전달을 위한 체외 마이크로플루이딕 모니터링 플랫폼
출처 Awwad S 등 Pharmaceutics 2023 15 5 1444
## 제약 연구에서의 마이크로플루이딕스 기반 약물 및 단백질 결정화
단백질 결정화는 신약 개발에서 핵심적인 과정인데, 마이크로플루이딕 시스템은 이를 혁신적으로 개선하고 있습니다. 기존에는 많은 양의 샘플이 필요했지만, 마이크로플루이딕 플랫폼은 극소량의 단백질과 시약만으로도 결정화 조건을 스크리닝할 수 있게 해줍니다. pH, 온도, 염 농도 등 다양한 조건을 시뮬레이션함으로써, 보다 빠르고 효율적인 결정화가 가능해졌습니다.
최근에는 원심력 기반 마이크로플루이딕 장치나 준접촉식 분주 방법(semi-contact dispensing) 같은 혁신 기술들이 고속 스크리닝과 정밀도 향상에 기여하면서 비용을 절감하고 신약 개발 속도를 가속화하고 있습니다. 이러한 발전은 구조 분석을 위한 고품질 단백질 결정 생산에 중요한 역할을 하며, 보다 표적화된 약물 전달에도 기여합니다.\[41,43\]
그림 8: (좌측) 초기 드롭렛에서 결정화 과정의 개념도, (우측) 마이크로캡슐 내 리소자임 결정화
(출처: Mettler, M. 등; Chemical Communications , 59, 12739–12742 (2023))
## 결론
본 리뷰에서는 마이크로플루이딕스 기술이 약물 전달 시스템의 생체이용률, 약물 효율성, 나노입자 성능을 어떻게 향상시키는지 살펴보았습니다. 기술적 진보에도 불구하고, 임상 적용을 위한 규모 확대(scale-up), 병렬화(parallelization) 개선, 그리고 제작 과정의 단순화라는 과제도 남아 있습니다. 그러나 마이크로플루이딕스와 오가논-온-어-칩 기술의 통합은 보다 정확한 사전 임상 테스트 및 개인 맞춤형 의학(personalized medicine) 구현에 유망한 해결책을 제시합니다. 지속적인 융합 연구와 협업을 통해 마이크로플루이딕스는 약물 전달 및 치료 분야에 혁신을 가져올 잠재력을 가지고 있습니다.
[드롭렛 기반 마이크로플루이딕스 전문 기술 더 보기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
[당사의 액적 제품 및 솔루션에 대해서 더 자세히 알아보세요](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
👉 당신의 약물 전달 프로세스를 개선하고 싶으신가요?
전문가에게 문의하거나, 마이크로플루이딕 압력 제어 시스템에 대해 자세히 알아보세요.
[전문가 문의하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
---
### [신뢰성 있는 드롭렛 생성을 위한 10가지 팁](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/10-tips-for-droplet-generation/)
**Published:** November 12, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 서론: 드롭렛 기반 마이크로유체 기술 마스터하기
드롭렛 기반 마이크로유체 기술은 서로 섞이지 않는 유체 흐름을 이용해 소량의 개별 액적을 생성하고 조작하는 다목적 마이크로유체 응용 분야입니다.\[1\] 이 기술은 약 20년 전 Thorsen 등에 의해 처음 탐구되었으며, 이후 H. Stone, D. Weitz, P. Tabeling 등의 연구자들에 의해 더욱 발전되었습니다. 이 기술은 크기와 형태가 균일한 드롭렛을 일관되게 생성할 수 있어, 기존의 스프레이 건조, 원심력 기반 드롭렛 생성, 초음파 분무 또는 벌크 혼합과 같은 전통적 방법보다 큰 장점을 제공합니다.\[2\]
균일한 드롭렛을 대량으로 생성할 수 있고, 세포, 생체 물질 및 기타 재료를 드롭렛 내에 캡슐화할 수 있는 능력 덕분에, 드롭렛 마이크로유체 기술은 약물 개발, 효소 반응 동역학, 단일세포 시퀀싱(single-cell sequencing), 조합 합성(combinatorial synthesis) 등 다양한 분야에서 필수적인 기술로 자리잡았습니다. 또한 이 기술은 랩온어칩(lab-on-a-chip) 기술을 지원하여 개인 맞춤형 의료, 진단, 세포 배양, 조직 공학 및 약물 전달 분야의 발전에도 기여하고 있습니다.\[3-7\]
그러나 여전히 드롭렛의 안정성, 단분산성(monodispersity), 그리고 조작 과정에서 시료의 무결성(integrity) 유지와 관련된 과제들이 존재합니다. 본 가이드는 효율적인 드롭렛 생성을 도와드리고, 문제 해결 시간을 최소화하며, 드롭렛 형성을 개선할 수 있는 10가지 핵심 팁을 제공합니다.
## 1. 드롭렛 생성을 위한 적절한 마이크로유체 칩 설계 선택하기
마이크로유체 칩의 설계는 드롭렛 크기 제어와 간단한 드롭렛 생성에 있어 핵심적인 역할을 합니다. 다음은 일반적으로 사용되는 몇 가지 설계입니다(그림 1 참조):\[8\]
- **동축(coaxial) 구조:** 연속상(continuous phase)이 분산상(dispersed phase)을 3차원적으로 둘러싸며, 균일한 드롭렛과 우수한 드롭렛 형성 제어를 제공합니다. 다만 제작이 복잡합니다.\[9\]
- **공류(co-flow) 구조:** 분산상이 내부 모세관(capillary)을 따라 흐르며, 동축 구조보다 제작이 간단하면서도 드롭렛 크기 제어가 가능합니다.\[10\]
- **유동 집속(flow-focusing) 구조:** 반대 방향에서 흐르는 유체가 좁은 수축부(constriction)에서 드롭렛을 분리(pinch-off)시켜 안정적인 드롭렛 형성을 가능하게 하나, 제작이 다소 복잡합니다.\[11-12\]
- **교차 유동(cross-flow) 구조:** 두 상이 T자형 접합부(T-junction)에서 만나며, 낮은 유속과 균일한 드롭렛 생성에 적합하지만 다른 설계들에 비해 정밀도가 다소 떨어집니다.\[2\]
- **단계 유화(step-emulsification) 구조:** 분산상이 채널 단면적이 급격히 증가하는 지점을 통과할 때 드롭렛이 형성되며, 고속 처리(high-throughput) 및 단분산 드롭렛 생성에 이상적입니다.\[13\]
***그림 1 드롭렛 생성을 위한 다양한 구조 설계*
*a 모세관 공류capillary co flow*
*b 모세관 유동 집속capillary flow focusing*
*c 모세관 공류와 유동 집속의 결합형*
*d 교차 유동cross flow*
*e 평면 유동 집속planar flow focusing*
*f 단계 유화step emulsification8*
*Nan L 외 Lab Chip 24 11351153 2024에서 발췌***
적절한 구조를 선택하는 것은 요구되는 드롭렛의 균일성, 처리량(throughput), 그리고 제작 복잡도에 따라 달라집니다. 공류(co-flow)나 교차 유동(cross-flow)과 같은 간단한 설계는 제작이 용이하지만, 동축(coaxial)이나 단계 유화(step-emulsification)와 같은 보다 복잡한 설계는 더 나은 제어력과 정밀도를 제공합니다.
Secoya Technologies의 RayDrop 알아보기: 교환 가능한 노즐을 통해 공류와 유동 집속 구조를 결합하여 단일 에멀전(single emulsion)과 이중 에멀전(double emulsion) 사이를 실용적으로 전환할 수 있습니다.
## 2- 为微流控芯片选择合适材料
*[재료 선택](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/ "재료 선택")은 마이크로유체 장치의 성능, 제작 복잡도 및 대량 생산 가능성(scalability)에 큰 영향을 미칩니다. 주요 재료는 다음 세 가지 범주로 분류할 수 있습니다:\[14\]*
- ***무기* *재료* *(**유리 및 실리콘**):*** *뛰어난 내화학성, 기계적 강성, 높은 광학 투명도를 제공합니다. 그러나 제작 비용이 높고, 포토리소그래피(photolithography) 및 습식 에칭(wet-etching) 기술이 필요해 제작이 까다롭습니다. 그럼에도 불구하고 유리 칩은 세척 후 재사용이 가능하다는 장점이 있습니다.\[9\]*
- ***엘라스토머* *(PDMS):*** *저렴하고 제작이 쉬우며 우수한 유연성을 지닌 대안입니다. 일반적으로 소프트 리소그래피(soft lithography)를 통해 패터닝되며, 유리 또는 다른 PDMS 층과 접합할 수 있습니다. 그러나 PDMS는 유기 용매와의 호환성이 낮아 일부 응용 분야에서 사용이 제한됩니다. 또한 소수성 소분자(hydrophobic small molecules)를 흡착하는 경향이 있어, 생체 또는 화학 분석에서 분석물 농도를 낮추거나 의도치 않은 오염을 유발할 수 있습니다.\[15\]*
- ***열가소성* *수지* *(PMMA, PC, PS, PVC, COC):*** *사출 성형(injection molding) 또는 핫 엠보싱(hot embossing)을 통해 대량 생산이 가능합니다. 고처리량 생산에는 이상적이지만, 소량 제작 시에는 리소그래피보다 해상도가 낮은 미세 가공(micromachining)이 필요합니다. 일부 열가소성 수지 및 엘라스토머는 3D 프린팅도 가능하지만, 해상도는 기술에 따라 차이가 있습니다.\[14,16\]*
*최적의 재료는 사용 목적에 따라 달라집니다. 유리와 실리콘은 높은 정밀도를 제공하지만 비용이 높고, PDMS는 유연성과 제작 용이성을 제공하며, 열가소성 수지는 대량 생산에는 적합하지만 미세 구조에 대한 해상도가 낮을 수 있습니다.*
*********표 1: 무기 재료, 엘라스토머 및 열가소성 수지의 특성\[14\]***
***(Elvira, K.S. 외, Lab. Chip 22, 859–875 (2022)에서 재구성)*********
******속성(Property)****** **무기 재료 (유리, 실리콘)** ******엘라스토머 (PDMS)****** ******열가소성 수지 (PMMA, PTFE**)**** ******화학적 호환성**
(Chemical Compatibility)**** 높음 보통 보통~양호 ******열 안정성**
(Thermal Stability)**** 높음 보통 가변적 (재료에 따라 다름) ******표면 친수성**
(Surface Hydrophilicity)**** 친수성 일반적으로 소수성 일반적으로 소수성 ******물리적 패터닝 방법******
**(Physical Patterning)**레이저 가공, 미세 가공, 화학 에칭 주조(Casting), 3D 프린팅 미세 가공, 성형(Moulding), 레이저 가공, 3D 프린팅 ******제작 시간**
(Fabrication Time)**** 길음 (복잡한 공정 때문) 중간 (주조 또는 3D 프린팅 방식에 따라 다름) 중간 (공정 복잡도에 따라 다름) ******비용**
(Cost)**** 높음 (특수 장비 및 공정 필요) 중간 (재료 자체는 비교적 저렴하나, 주조 및 3D 프린팅 비용은 상황에 따라 다름) 중간 (재료 선택 및 공정 복잡도에 따라 달라짐)
마이크로유체 칩을 선택하는 방법과 미세 가공(microfabrication) 공정을 자세히 알아보세요.
- [
### 마이크로유체칩: 작동 원리 및 올바른 칩 선택 방법
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
## 3- *젖음성(wetting) 및 표면 처리 제어하기*
*유체와 채널 표면 간의 상호작용은 어떤 유체가 연속상(continuous phase)이 되고, 어떤 유체가 분산상(dispersed phase)이 될지를 결정합니다. 마이크로유체 채널은 크기가 작고 표면적 대 부피 비율(surface area-to-volume ratio)이 매우 높기 때문에, 채널/유체 계면(interface)이 유체 거동에 지배적인 영향을 미칩니다. 이러한 현상은 재료 선택 또는 표면 개질(surface modification) 기술을 통해 조절할 수 있습니다.*
- *재료 선택: 적절한 표면 특성을 가진 재료를 선택함으로써 올바른 젖음성(wetting)을 확보할 수 있습니다(표 1 참조). 예를 들어, 친수성(hydrophilic) 표면은 수용성 유체(aqueous fluids)를 우선적으로 젖게 하여 oil-in-water(O/W) 드롭렛 형성을 촉진합니다. 반면 소수성(hydrophobic) 표면은 water-in-oil(W/O) 드롭렛 생성에 이상적입니다. 접촉각(contact angle)은 드롭렛 유형을 결정하는 중요한 요소이며, 특정 임계 접촉각(critical contact angle)을 기준으로 W/O 또는 O/W 드롭렛이 형성됩니다.\[14, 16–20\]*
- *표면 개질: 재료의 고유 표면 특성이 목적에 부합하지 않을 경우, 표면 개질이 필요합니다. 플라즈마 처리(plasma treatment), 산화(oxidation), 실란화(silanization)와 같은 기술을 통해 표면 특성을 조정할 수 있습니다. 예를 들어, 유리는 O/W 및 W/O 드롭렛 모두를 위해 개질이 가능하지만, PDMS는 장기간 안정적인 드롭렛 생성을 위해 종종 표면 처리가 필요합니다.\[21–23\]*
*따라서 마이크로유체 장치에서 안정적이고 제어된 드롭렛 형성을 달성하려면 적절한 재료 선택과 플라즈마 처리, 산화, 실란화와 같은 표면 처리 기술이 필수적입니다.*
## 4- 드롭렛 안정화를 위한 계면활성제(surfactant) 사용
*계면활성제(또는 유화제, emulsifier)는 양친매성(amphiphilic) 분자로, 유체-유체 계면을 안정화하며 채널 표면을 일시적으로 개질할 수 있습니다. 계면활성제를 변경함으로써 추가적인 표면 처리 없이도 동일한 장치 내에서 water-in-oil(W/O) 및 oil-in-water(O/W) 드롭렛을 모두 생성할 수 있습니다.\[24\]*
- *계면활성제의 기능: 일반적인 계면활성제로는 음이온성 계면활성제인 SDS(sodium dodecyl sulfate)와 비이온성 계면활성제인 Span 80, Tween 20, PEG(polyethylene glycol) 등이 있습니다. 이러한 계면활성제들은 표면 화학을 일시적으로 변화시켜 드롭렛을 안정화합니다(표 2 참조).\[25\]*
- *계면활성제의 첨가 위치: 계면활성제는 분산상 또는 연속상 어느 쪽에도 첨가할 수 있습니다. 연속상에 첨가된 계면활성제는 채널/유체 계면으로 이동하여 표면을 코팅합니다. 일반적으로 분산상을 주입하기 전에 연속상을 먼저 흘려보내 장치를 프라이밍(prime)하는 방식으로 사용됩니다.\[25,26\]*
***계면활성제는 드롭렛을 안정화하고 채널 표면을 일시적으로 개질함으로써 드롭렛 형성을 정밀하게 제어할 수 있게 해줍니다.***
****표 2: 계면활성제 종류 및 특성 요약\[27,28\]****
********종류 (Type)******** ********특성 (Characteristics)******** ********예시 (Examples)******** ********음이온성**
(Anionic)****** **친수성 부분이 강한 음전하를 띱니다.** 자극성과 급성 독성 가능성이 높습니다. 소듐 라우릴 설페이트 (SLS)
소듐 도데실 설페이트 (SDS) ********양이온성**
(Cationic)****** **친수성 부분이 강한 양전하를 띱니다.** 주로 화장품 제품에 사용됩니다. 스테아르알코늄 (Stearalkonium)
벤잘코늄 (Benzalkonium)
세틸트리메틸암모늄 브로마이드 (CTAB) 등 트리메틸 암모늄 계열 ********양쪽성**
(Amphoteric)****** 음전하와 양전하를 모두 가질 수 있습니다.
최종 전하는 pH에 따라 달라집니다.
자극이 적고 순합니다. 하이드록시설테인 (Hydroxysultaines)
코코 벤테인 (Coco Betaine)
라우릴 벤테인 (Lauryl Betaine) ********비이온성**
(Non-ionic)****** 친수성 부분이 전하를 띠지 않습니다.
약물 전달 시스템, 생물학적 검사, 식품 유화 등 다양한 응용 분야에 자주 사용됩니다.PEG (폴리에틸렌 글리콜)
소르비탄 (Sorbitans)
폴리소르베이트 (Polysorbates)
트윈(Tweens) 및 스팬(Spans)
**그림 2 다양한 계면활성제의 분자 구조28
Perelomov L 외 Sustainability 16 4804 2024에서 발췌**
## 5- 압력 제어기(pressure controller)로 드롭렛 안정성 향상하기
마이크로유체 실험에서 신뢰성 있는 드롭렛 생성을 위해서는 유속을 정밀하게 제어하는 것이 매우 중요합니다. 드롭렛의 크기와 단분산성(monodispersity)은 유속 제어의 정확도에 직접적으로 의존하므로, 반복 가능하고 신뢰할 수 있는 결과를 얻기 위해 정밀한 유동 제어가 필수적입니다. 적절한 유동 제어 방식을 선택하는 것은 드롭렛 품질에 큰 영향을 미칩니다.
- 주사기 펌프(Syringe Pumps): 기계적 작동 원리에 기반하며, 펄스 오류(pulse errors)를 유발하고 유속 제어에 한계가 있어 드롭렛 크기의 불일치를 초래합니다. 이로 인해 반복 가능한 반응기 체적(reproducible reactor volumes)을 확보하기 어렵습니다.
- 압력 기반 유동 제어기(Pressure-Based Flow Controllers): 고정밀 유속 제어, 빠른 응답 속도, 그리고 실시간 연속 유동 모니터링 기능을 제공합니다. 이를 통해 드롭렛 크기를 일정하게 유지하고, 주사기 펌프에서 발생하는 펄스 오류를 완전히 제거할 수 있습니다.
***그림 3 압력 기반 제어기와 주사기 펌프 간의 정밀도 비교***
*따라서 마이크로유체 시스템에서 보다 신뢰성 있고 일관된 드롭렛 생성을 [위해서는 주사기 펌프보다 압력 기반 유동 제어기가 훨씬 우수한 대안입니다](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "위해서는 주사기 펌프보다 압력 기반 유동 제어기가 훨씬 우수한 대안입니다"). 정밀한 제어와 펄스 없는(pulse-free) 작동 덕분에 실험 결과의 재현성이 크게 향상됩니다.*
*주사기 펌프와 비교한 압력 기반 제어기의 드롭렛 형성에 대한 영향에 대해 더 알아보세요.*
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### 고유량제어를위한미세유체
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 액적생성을위한미세유체기술
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 액적 생산을 위한 고급 솔루션
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
## 6- 단분산성(monodispersity)을 위한 유속 비율 최적화
마이크로유체 드롭렛 생성 과정에서 관성력과 점성력 사이의 균형은 드롭렛의 크기와 일관성에 큰 영향을 미칩니다. 유체상의 물성(점도, 계면장력 등)과 유속과 같은 주요 파라미터는 드롭렛의 크기, 형태 및 구조에 직접적으로 작용합니다. 이 과정에서 모세관 수(Capillary number, Ca)는 핵심적인 무차원 수로, 유속 조절이 드롭렛 형성에 어떻게 영향을 미치는지를 결정합니다.\[29,30\]
- 상 유속과 캡슐 크기: 분산상(Qd)과 연속상(Qc)의 유속은 캡슐(또는 드롭렛) 크기와 직접적인 관계가 있습니다. Qd를 일정하게 유지하면서 Qc를 증가시키면 캡슐 크기가 감소합니다. 따라서 드롭렛 크기와 단분산성을 최적화하려면 Qd/Qc 비율을 정밀하게 조절하는 것이 매우 중요합니다.
이중 에멀전(Double Emulsion) 이중 에멀전 시스템에서는 유속 조절을 통해 캡슐 전체 크기뿐 아니라 쉘(shell)도 제어할 수 있습니다. 예를 들어, 이중 에멀전에서 쉘을 형성하는 중간상의 유속(Qd, 쉘 상 유속)을 증가시키면 캡슐 전체 크기는 거의 유지하면서 쉘 두께만 증가시킬 수 있습니다.
**그림 4 연속상 유속Qc을 증가시킬 때 드롭렛 직경의 변화*
*Secoya Technologies가 개발한 RayDrop을 사용한 연구 결과**
**그림 5 쉘 액체의 유속에 따른 쉘 두께 변화*
*Secoya Technologies가 개발한 RayDrop을 사용한 연구 결과**
*결론적으로, 분산상과 연속상의 유속 비율을 최적화하는 것은 마이크로유체 시스템에서 균일한 드롭렛 크기와 높은 단분산성을 달성하는 핵심입니다. 이러한 비율을 정밀하게 조정함으로써 드롭렛 생성의 재현성과 정밀도를 크게 향상시킬 수 있습니다.*
## 7- 실시간으로 문제를 모니터링하고 트러블슈팅하기
*실시간 모니터링은 문제가 발생하는 즉시 이를 식별하고 해결하여 일관되고 정확한 실험 결과를 보장하는 데 필수적입니다. 예를 들어, 유속 실시간 제어 소프트웨어나 고속 카메라(high-speed cameras)와 같은 첨단 도구를 활용하면 핵심 파라미터를 지속적으로 추적하고 즉시 조정할 수 있습니다.*
- *고속 카메라: 현미경과 통합된 고속 카메라는 드롭렛 형성 과정을 실시간으로 시각화할 수 있게 해줍니다. 이를 통해 드롭렛의 크기, 균일성은 물론, 채널 내 막힘(clogging)이나 불안정한 형성과 같은 잠재적 문제를 정밀하게 점검할 수 있습니다.*
- *Oxygen(Fluigent) 소프트웨어: 이 소프트웨어는 유속을 실시간으로 정밀하게 제어하고 모니터링할 수 있도록 지원합니다. 이를 통해 최적의 드롭렛 형성 조건을 유지하기 위한 빠른 조정이 가능하며, 압력, 유속, 시스템 성능에 대한 유의미한 데이터를 제공합니다.*
*마이크로유체 시스템에서 원활한 드롭렛 생성을 보장하려면 이러한 도구를 활용한 실시간 모니터링이 매우 중요합니다. 문제를 즉시 감지하고 대응함으로써 실험 전반에 걸쳐 결과의 일관성을 유지하고 시스템 성능을 최적화할 수 있습니다.*
## 8- 안정적인 시스템을 위해 기포(bubble) 생성 방지하기
마이크로유체 시스템 내의 공기 기포는 유동 안정성을 방해하고 응답 시간을 저하시키며, 심한 경우 채널 막힘(clogging)을 유발하여 신뢰할 수 없는 결과를 초래할 수 있습니다. 이러한 기포는 용해된 기체, 누출(leaks), 또는 PDMS와 같은 재료의 투과성(permeability)으로 인해 장치 벽을 통해 공기가 확산되면서 발생할 수 있습니다. 따라서 원활하고 재현 가능한 실험을 위해 기포 형성을 방지하는 것이 매우 중요합니다.\[31\]
- 기포 형성의 원인 이해하기: 기포는 액체에 용해된 기체, 다공성 재료, 또는 시스템 충전 과정의 부주의로 인해 발생할 수 있습니다. 특히 PDMS와 같은 재료는 기체 투과성이 높아 시간이 지남에 따라 공기가 마이크로채널 내에 서서히 축적될 수 있습니다.
- 방지 전략: 사용 전 용액을 탈기(degassing) 처리하고, 기체 투과성이 낮은 재료를 선택하며, 친수성 표면 처리를 적용하면 기포 형성을 최소화할 수 있습니다. 또한 기포 트랩(bubble traps)이나 인라인 탈기기(inline degassers)를 도입하면 기포 없는 시스템을 더욱 확실히 보장할 수 있습니다.
*마이크로유체 실험에서 기포를 방지하는 것은 안정적이고 신뢰성 있는 유동을 유지하는 데 필수적입니다. 용액 탈기, 적절한 재료 선택, 기포 트랩 사용을 통해 실험 중 발생할 수 있는 간섭을 크게 줄이고, 결과의 정확도를 향상시킬 수 있습니다.*
## 9- 보조 도구를 통합하여 마이크로유체 시스템 최적화하기
실용적인 보조 도구를 마이크로유체 시스템에 통합하면 실험의 효율성, 정밀도 및 조작 용이성이 크게 향상됩니다. 정밀한 샘플 주입을 위한 유체 제어 밸브, 가교(crosslinking) 방법에 맞춘 시스템 구성, UV 가교 모듈 사용 등을 통해 드롭렛 마이크로유체 시스템에서 더 나은 캡슐화(encapsulation)와 안정성을 확보할 수 있습니다.
- 밸브를 활용한 손쉬운 유체 조작: Fluigent의 L-Switch와 같은 도구는 소량의 샘플을 정밀하게 주입할 수 있어, 줄기세포나 환자 유래 샘플과 같이 희귀하거나 민감한 세포를 다룰 때 특히 유용합니다. 이를 통해 제한된 샘플을 효율적으로 관리하고, 낭비를 줄이며, 실험 제어력을 높일 수 있습니다.
- 가교 방식에 맞춘 시스템 조정: 미세캡슐(microcapsule)의 쉘(shell)은 보호 및 기능 수행에 핵심적인 역할을 합니다. 캡슐화 공정에 따라 시스템을 적절히 조정하여 가교 방법과 일치시켜야 합니다.
- 물리적 경화(Physical Curing): 젤라틴, 알지네이트, 키토산과 같은 천연 고분자는 pH, 온도 또는 이온 강도의 변화에 따라 고화됩니다.\[29,30,32\]
- UV 가교(UV Crosslinking): 폴리아크릴아마이드, 폴리스티렌, 폴리(에틸렌 글리콜) 디아크릴레이트(PEGDA)와 같은 합성 고분자는 UV 광선 또는 열을 이용해 가교됩니다. 특히 PEGDA는 생의학적 응용 분야에서 조절 가능한 특성 덕분에 널리 사용됩니다.\[33–35\]
예를 들어, UV 가교 모듈을 도입하면 UV 광원에 노출시켜 고분자 가교를 유도할 수 있습니다. 조절 가능한 튜브 경사를 통해 드롭렛 수집이 간편해지고, 융합(coalescence)을 방지하여 우수한 캡슐화 결과를 얻을 수 있습니다.
*유체 제어 밸브 통합, 다양한 가교 기술에 맞춘 시스템 조정, UV 가교 모듈 사용은 마이크로유체 실험의 정밀도, 재현성 및 효율성을 높이는 데 기여합니다. 이러한 도구들은 샘플 취급을 개선하고, 안정적인 캡슐화를 보장하며, 고품질의 미세캡슐을 생성할 수 있게 해줍니다.*
당사의 드롭렛 생성 플랫폼을 확인해 보세요.
- [
### 액적생성을위한미세유체기술
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
## 10- 청결한 설정 유지 및 적절한 세척 프로토콜 사용하기
*마이크로유체 실험 중 채널 막힘, 오염, 유동 불안정을 방지하려면 항상 청결한 시스템을 유지하는 것이 필수적입니다. 적절한 여과, 표준화된 세척 프로토콜, 정기적인 유지보수는 원활한 작동과 재현 가능한 결과를 보장하는 핵심 요소입니다.*
- *사전 여과 및 인라인 필터 사용: 마이크로유체 시스템에 용액을 주입하기 전 반드시 여과하여 채널을 막을 수 있는 입자를 제거해야 합니다. 또한 마이크로유체 회로에 인라인 필터(inline filters)를 설치하면 시스템 내로 유입되는 오염물질을 실시간으로 포집하여 실험 중 유동 차단을 방지할 수 있습니다.*
- *세척 프로토콜 준수 및 막힘 해결: 사용하는 화학물질에 맞춰 세척 프로토콜을 조정하세요. 정기적인 세척은 화학적 잔여물 축적과 오염을 예방합니다. 만약 시스템이 막혔다면(특히 유리 칩의 경우), 유동 방향을 역전시켜 백플러시(backflush)를 수행하세요. 이 방법은 채널 손상 없이 막힘을 제거하고 정상적인 유동을 복원하는 데 효과적입니다.*
*마이크로유체 세척 액세서리의 예로, 당사의 플로우 [유닛(flow unit) ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cleaning-procedure-flow-units/ "유닛(flow unit) ")세척 프로토콜을 참고하실 수 있습니다.*
## 결론
정밀함은 마이크로유체 실험에서 신뢰성 있고 재현 가능하며 간편한 드롭렛 생성을 달성하는 열쇠입니다. 유속 최적화, 오염 방지, 적절한 도구 통합을 통해 실험 결과를 향상시키고 워크플로우를 효율화할 수 있습니다. 최상의 성능을 얻기 위해 실험 조건을 직접 조정하고 세밀하게 튜닝하는 것을 주저하지 마세요.
더 정밀한 제어를 원하신다면, Fluigent의 정밀 유속 제어 솔루션과 Secoya Technologies의 RayDrop 고급 드롭렛 생성 기술을 확인해 보세요. 당사의 솔루션은 귀하의 실험을 한 단계 더 높은 수준으로 끌어올릴 수 있습니다.
👉 액적 생성 공정을 개선하고 싶으신가요? 전문가에게 문의하거나, 마이크로플루이딕 압력 제어 시스템에 대해 자세히 알아보세요.
[전문가 문의하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
## 관련 전문 지식
[Fluigent 액적 및 입자 생성 제품에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
[Fluigent 액적 및 입자 생성 기술에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 약물 전달 분야의 마이크로플루이딕스: 정밀 의학의 새로운 시대
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-drug-delivery/)
- [
### 마이크로유체칩: 작동 원리 및 올바른 칩 선택 방법
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidic(미세유체) Droplet 생성 방법
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidic%eb%af%b8%ec%84%b8%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-droplet-%ec%83%9d%ec%84%b1-%eb%b0%a9%eb%b2%95/)
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21\. Salami, T. O. *et al.* Toward a better understanding of synthesis and processing of ceramic/self-assembled monolayer bilayer coatings. *J. Electron. Mater.* **34**, 534–540 (2005).
22\. Owen, M. J. & Smith, P. J. Plasma treatment of polydimethylsiloxane. *J. Adhes. Sci. Technol.* **8**, 1063–1075 (1994).
23\. Makamba, H., Kim, J. H., Lim, K., Park, N. & Hahn, J. H. Surface modification of poly(dimethylsiloxane) microchannels. *ELECTROPHORESIS* **24**, 3607–3619 (2003).
24\. Xu, J. H., Li, S. W., Tan, J., Wang, Y. J. & Luo, G. S. Controllable Preparation of Monodisperse O/W and W/O Emulsions in the Same Microfluidic Device. *Langmuir* **22**, 7943–7946 (2006).
25\. Baret, J.-C. Surfactants in droplet-based microfluidics. *Lab Chip* **12**, 422–433 (2012).
26\. Dinh, H.-H.-Q., Santanach-Carreras, E., Schmitt, V. & Lequeux, F. Coalescence in concentrated emulsions: theoretical predictions and comparison with experimental bottle test behaviour. *Soft Matter* **16**, 10301–10309 (2020).
27\. Bezerra, M. D. A., Arruda, M. A. Z. & Ferreira, S. L. C. Cloud Point Extraction as a Procedure of Separation and Pre‐Concentration for Metal Determination Using Spectroanalytical Techniques: A Review. *Appl. Spectrosc. Rev.* **40**, 269–299 (2005).
28\. Perelomov, L. *et al.* Organoclays Based on Bentonite and Various Types of Surfactants as Heavy Metal Remediants. *Sustainability* **16**, 4804 (2024).
29\. Duran, M. *et al.* Microcapsule production by droplet microfluidics: A review from the material science approach. *Mater. Des.* **223**, 111230 (2022).
30\. Chachanidze, R., Xie, K., Lyu, J., Jaeger, M. & Leonetti, M. Breakups of Chitosan microcapsules in extensional flow. *J. Colloid Interface Sci.* **629**, 445–454 (2023).
31\. Pereiro, I., Fomitcheva Khartchenko, A., Petrini, L. & Kaigala, G. V. Nip the bubble in the bud: a guide to avoid gas nucleation in microfluidics. *Lab. Chip* **19**, 2296–2314 (2019).
32\. Ghasemzaie, N., Jeyhani, M., Joshi, K., Lee, W. L. & Tsai, S. S. H. ATPSpin: A Single Microfluidic Platform that Produces Diversified ATPS-Alginate Microfibers. *ACS Biomater. Sci. Eng.* (2024) doi:10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00110.
33\. Hakim Khalili, M. *et al.* Additive Manufacturing and Physicomechanical Characteristics of PEGDA Hydrogels: Recent Advances and Perspective for Tissue Engineering. *Polymers* **15**, 2341 (2023).
34\. Sun, X. *et al.* Facile fabrication of drug-loaded PEGDA microcapsules for drug evaluation using droplet-based microchip. *Chin. Chem. Lett.* **33**, 2697–2700 (2022).
35\. Polymers | Free Full-Text | Additive Manufacturing and Physicomechanical Characteristics of PEGDA Hydrogels: Recent Advances and Perspective for Tissue Engineering. (2024).
---
### [세포 및 조직의 미세 피펫 흡인 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/micropipette-aspiration/)
**Published:** April 15, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 우리는 세포의 기계적 특성을 어떻게 측정합니까?
### 세포의 기계적 특성은 무엇입니까?
세포핵의 기계적 특성은 많은 생물학적 과정에서 중요한 요소로 점차 인식되고 있습니다. 핵의 변형 가능성은 면역 세포와 암 세포가 조직과 내피 세포 층을 통과하여 이동할 수 있는 능력을 결정합니다. 핵의 기계적 특성 변화는 또한 암 진행 및 줄기 세포 분화 과정에서 새로운 바이오마커로 사용될 수 있습니다 \[5\].
### 현재 사용 중인 기술
그러나 현재 핵의 점탄성 기계적 특성을 측정하는 기술은 시간이 많이 소요되며, 한 번에 하나의 세포만 조사할 수 있거나 고도로 전문화된 장비를 필요로 합니다. 또한, 많은 현재의 검사 방법은 점탄성 물질의 특징인 시간 의존적인 특성을 측정하지 않습니다 \[5, 6\].
미세 피펫 흡인은 정밀하고 민감한 음압을 적용하여 세포를 미세 피펫을 통해 빨아들이는 원리를 사용합니다. 먼저 세포를 미세 피펫의 끝에 고정한 후, 흡입을 통해 세포를 튜브 안으로 끌어들입니다.
### 왜 미세 피펫 흡인 기법을 사용합니까?
미세 피펫 튜브를 통과한 세포 부분의 이동 거리를 정량화하기 위해 현미경을 사용해 세포의 위치를 추적할 수 있습니다. 이러한 행동은 세포를 스프링과 댐퍼의 조합으로 모델링하는 집중 매개변수 모델에 의해 예측됩니다(각각 강성과 점성을 나타냄) \[5\].
미세 피펫 흡인 중 세포가 보이는 변형은 강성 때문에 선형 탄성 반응과 점성 행동 때문에 크립 반응을 보입니다. 이러한 반응은 세포 유형마다 다릅니다. 예를 들어, 백혈구는 연골 세포보다 낮은 강성을 나타냅니다. 이 강성 차이는 세포 간 상호작용 방식과 주변 환경에 영향을 받는 방식에 영향을 미칩니다. 마이크로 피펫 흡인은 다양한 세포 유형에서 강성을 정량화할 수 있는 다목적 기술입니다.
세포의 기계적 특성을 정량화할 수 있다면 다른 병리학적 상태를 조사하고 진단하는 데 유용한 도구가 될 수 있습니다. 섬세한 개별 세포를 처리하고, 이를 조작하는 데 필요한 작은 힘과 그들의 작은 크기를 감안할 때, 재료 속성을 측정하기 위해 전통적인 방법을 사용하는 것은 현실적이지 않습니다.
## 마이크로 피펫 흡인의 장점
- **비침습적:** 미세 피펫 흡인은 동일한 샘플에 대해 반복적인 측정이 가능합니다. 조직 내 개별 세포의 세포 긴장 변화를 시간이 지남에 따라 모니터링할 수 있습니다. 이 방법은 형태 형성을 유도하는 시공간적 긴장 맵을 추적하는 강력한 도구입니다 (Maitre et al, Nat Cell Biol, 2015).
- **경제적이고 사용 및 구축이 쉽다:** Fluigent의 미세 피펫 흡인은 컴팩트하며 어떤 현미경에도 맞출 수 있고 직관적인 소프트웨어로 제어됩니다. AFM, 세포 압입기 및 광학 핀셋과 같은 경쟁 기술은 비싸고 특정 교육이 필요하며 전용 현미경이 필요할 수 있습니다.
- **시간 절약:** Fluigent 제품의 반응성 덕분에 지정된 압력이 즉시 세포 표면에 적용됩니다(밀리초 범위). 세포 표면 장력은 3~5분 안에 측정할 수 있습니다(Maitre 등, Nat Cell Biol, 2015).
- **운영자 간 변동이 없다:** 숙련된 인력이 필요할 뿐만 아니라, 수동 흡인은 적용되는 압력을 정확하게 정량화할 수 없기 때문에 상당한 운영자 간 변동이 발생합니다. 대조적으로, Fluigent 압력 조절기는 항상 0.1%의 정확도로 설정된 압력을 제공합니다.
- **고감도 및 고해상도:** Fluigent 기기는 저압(0.1-10mbar)에서 작은 압력 증분(0.007mbar)을 제공하는 유일한 제품입니다. 이들은 공초점 현미경으로는 접근할 수 없는 세포 골격 구조 및 조직 변경과 같은 아세포 역학을 조사할 수 있게 해줍니다.
## 미세 피펫 흡인 기술의 응용
미세 피펫 흡인은 여전히 핵 역학을 연구하는 데 있어 가장 일반적으로 사용되는 도구 중 하나이며, 다양한 시간 척도에서 핵의 점탄성 행동에 대한 중요한 정보를 제공합니다.
마이크로 피펫 흡인은 핵의 기계적 특성, 염색질에서 핵질 배제, 그리고 염색질 스트레칭 등 다양한 현상을 연구하는 데 사용되었습니다 \[5\].
이미지는 프랑스 [Institut Curie의 Jean-Léon Maitre 제공. ](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/biology-cancer-genetics-and-epigenetics/developmental-biology-and-genetics/team-maitre/ "Institut Curie의 Jean-Léon Maitre 제공. ")
**세포 기계적 특성 측정 :** 많은 생물학적 과정은 세포 강성의 변화 로 특징지어집니다. 예를 들어, 세포가 유사분열에 진입할 때 \[1\], 종양 세포가 전암 단계로 전환될 때 \[2\], 말라리아에 감염된 적혈구 \[3\] 등이 있습니다. 이러한 기계적 변화는 세포 수준에서 발생하며, 정확한 측정이 필요합니다. 이를 통해 세포 강성을 정밀하게 정량화할 수 있습니다.
듀얼 피펫 흡인 분석법 : 이는 세포 흡인 설정의 복제 버전으로, 접촉 중인 세포들을 분리하여 세포-세포 간 긴장과 세포-매질 간 긴장의 상대적인 기여도를 평가하는 데 유용한 도구입니다 (Maitre et al., Science, 2012).
**단일 세포 조작 :** 마이크로 피펫 흡인 은 단일 세포 또는 세포 클러스터의 공간적 위치를 조정할 수 있게 해줍니다. 단일 세포 위치 선정은 단일 세포 분석이나 클론 세포주 개발에 필수적입니다.
**조직 내 긴장의 불균일성 :** 단일 세포 수준에서 세포 긴장을 평가하면 조직의 공간적 긴장 맵을 매핑할 수 있습니다. 이 방법은 특히 조직 형태 형성 또는 배아 발생을 유도하는 힘을 조사하는 데 매우 효과적입니다（**[Maitre 等，2016，Nature](https://www.nature.com/articles/nature18958#citeas "Maitre 等，2016，Nature")）**。
**체외 진단 :** 현미경으로 확인하거나 감지할 수 없는 비정상적인 행동을 탐지하기 위해 세포 수준에서 강성을 측정하는 것은 강력한 도구입니다. 예를 들어, 수정 후 몇 시간 내에 배아의 생존 가능성을 예측할 수 있습니다. 이 단계에서는 생존 가능한 배아와 그렇지 않은 배아를 형태학적으로 구별할 수 없지만, 기계적 특성 을 통해 이를 구분할 수 있습니다 \[4\].
## 마이크로 피펫 흡인 패키지
- [
### 정밀 유체 제어를 위한 미세유체 솔루션 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 액적 생산을 위한 고급 솔루션](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 체학 기술을 위한 고급 솔루션](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics/)
****마이크로fluidic 유량 컨트롤러****
마이크로fluidic 소프트웨어 제어
****실시간 제어 및 실험 자동화 소프트웨어****
****디지털 고속 현미경****
****마이크로 피펫 흡인 패키지****
**자세한 정보 또는 기술 상담**
[**문의하기** ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
## 참조
\[1\] Théry M, Bornens M, Get round and stiff. 2008, HFSP J, 2(2):65-71.
\[2\] Tavares S et al, actin stress fiber organization promotes cell stiffening and proliferation of pre-invasive breast cancer cells. 2017, Nat Commun. 8:15237.
\[3\] Guo Q et al, Microfluidic biomechanical assay for red blood cells parasitized by Plasmodium falciparum. 2012, Lab Chip; 12(6):1143-50.
\[4\] Yanez LZ et al, human oocyte developmental potential is predicted by mechanical properties within hours after fertilization, 2016, Nat Commun. 7:10809
\[5\] Davidson, P.M. et al. (2019) “High-throughput microfluidic micropipette aspiration device to probe time-scale dependent nuclear mechanics in intact cells,” Lab on a Chip, 19(21), pp. 3652–3663. Available at: [**https://doi.org/10.1039/c9lc00444k**](https://doi.org/10.1039/c9lc00444k).
\[6\] González-Bermúdez, B., Guinea, G.V. and Plaza, G.R. (2019) “Advances in micropipette aspiration: Applications in cell biomechanics, models, and extended studies,” Biophysical Journal, 116(4), pp. 587–594. Available at: .
## 고객이 엄선한 출판물
Guevorkian K,Maître JL.Micropipette aspiration: A unique tool for exploring cell and tissue mechanics in vivo.MethodsCellBiol. 2017;139:187-201
Maître JL et al, Asymmetric division of contractile domains couples cellpositioning and fate specification, Nature. 2016 Aug 18;536(7616):344-34
Biro M, Maître JL, Dual pipette aspiration: a unique tool for studying intercellular adhesion.MethodsCellBiol. 2015;125:255-67
Porazinski S et al, YAP is essential for tissue tension to ensure vertebrate 3D body shape.Nature. 2015 May 14;521(7551):217-221
Maître JL et al, Pulsatile cell-autonomouscontractility drives compaction in the mouse embryo. Nat Cel lBiol. 2015 Jul;17(7):849-55
Maître JL et al, Adhesion functions in cell sorting by mechanically coupling the cortices of adhering cells.Science. 2012;338(6104):253-6
---
### [마이크로유체칩: 작동 원리 및 올바른 칩 선택 방법 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
**Published:** July 9, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
**목차:**
1. [**마이크로유체칩의 미세가공** ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#microfabrication)
- [**실리콘 또는 유리** ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#silicon-glass)
- [**폴리머** ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#polymers)
- [**종이** ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#paper)
- **[하이드로젤](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#hydrogel)**
2. [**응용 분야에 맞는 적절한 칩 선택 가이드** ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/#chip-selection "应用选型指南 ")
## 마이크로유체칩의 미세가공
랩온어칩 기술에서 핵심적인 역할을 하는 이 칩들은 실리콘, 유리 또는 PDMS(Polydimethylsiloxane)와 같은 폴리머와 같은 다양한 소재로 제작됩니다. 사용되는 재료에 따라 제조 공정 또한 달라집니다.
다음 내용의 대부분은 Aryasomayajula 등이 집필한 『 Spinger Handbook of Nanotechnology)』(“Microfluidic Devices and Their Applications”)과 Ren 등이 작성한 논문 “Materials for Microfluidic Chip Fabrication)”\[1\]에서 발췌하였습니다.
### 1. 실리콘 또는 유리 마이크로유체칩
- MEMS(Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) 기술이 도입되면서 개발된 최초 세대의 마이크로유체용 소재입니다.
- 유리 : 투명하며 비활성이고, 높은 열 및 화학 내성을 가집니다.
- 실리콘 : 불투명하지만 포토리소그래피를 통해 마이크로 미터 수준의 정밀한 구조 제작이 가능합니다.
- 두 소재 모두 고해상도의 채널을 제작할 수 있으며, 높은 재현성을 바탕으로 마이크로 미터 이하의 채널 크기를 구현할 수 있어 캐필러리 전기영동(CE), 드롭렛 생성, 칩 내 반응 등에 이상적입니다.
🛠️ 제작 방법
- **실리콘 :**
벌크 마이크로머신가공(Bulk micromachining), 표면 마이크로머신가공(Surface micromachining), 식각(Etching) 및 증착(Deposition) 기술을 이용한 매설 채널(Buried channels) 등의 방법으로 제작됩니다.
- **유리 :**
주로 습식/건식 식각(Wet/dry etching) 및 기계적 가공 공정을 통해 제작됩니다.
**⚠️** 한계점
- 비용이 비싸며 전문 장비와 유해 화학물질이 필요합니다.
- 기체 투과성이 없으며, 내구도가 약하고 세포 배양에는 부적합합니다.
**✅** 요약
실리콘과 유리는 고온에서도 높은 정밀도와 안정성을 제공하는 매우 강성이 큰 소재입니다. 하지만 제조 비용이 높고 생물학적 응용이나 대량 생산에는 한계가 있어, 폴리머와 같은 대체 소재들이 점점 더 각광받고 있습니다.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
### 2. 폴리머 마이크로유체칩
- 실리콘/유리 이후에 도입된 폴리머는 경제적이고 유연하며 쉽게 접근할 수 있는 대안입니다.
- 프로토타이핑 및 대량 생산 모두에 적합한데, 이는 사용되는 폴리머 종류에 따라 달라집니다.
🛠️ 폴리머의 종류와 응용 분야
***🧼* 엘라스토머 (예: PDMS)**
- 유연성이 뛰어나며 소프트 리소그래피를 통한 신속한 프로토타이핑에 이상적입니다.
- 주로 학술 연구에서 널리 사용됩니다.
- 한계점 : 친수성 부족(소수성), 재현도 낮음, 압력 저항성 약함, 대량 생산에는 부적합
***🔍* 열가소성 플라스틱 (예: PMMA, COC, PC)**
- 투명하고 생체적합성, 저비용
- 열성형 또는 사출 성형을 통한 대량 생산에 적합
- PDMS보다 화학 내성이 우수하지만 기체 투과성이 낮아 장기 세포 배양에는 부적합
**🔥 열경화성 수지 (예: TPE) ）**
- 열이나 용매에 강하게 구조가 유지됨
- 사출 성형으로 제작되어 높은 정밀도 제공
- 상대적으로 비용이 높아 사용 빈도는 낮음
그림 1 :
(A) 포토마스크(고해상도 투명 디자인 포함)를 통해 노출된 감광성 수지를 패터닝하여 몰드 마스터를 제작합니다.
(B) 마스터 위에 액체 PDMS를 붓고 70°C에서 1시간 동안 경화시킵니다.
(C) 경화된 PDMS 복제물을 마스터에서 벗겨내고, (D) 평탄면에 밀봉하여 채널을 완전히 밀폐합니다.
전체 공정에는 약 24시간이 소요됩니다 \[2\].
**✅** 요약
폴리머, 특히 PDMS는 프로토타이핑에, 열가소성 플라스틱은 산업용으로 널리 사용되고 있습니다. 저렴한 비용, 가공 용이성, 다양한 응용 분야에 걸친 유연성 덕분에 현재 마이크로유체 분야에서 가장 선호되는 소재입니다.
### 3. 종이 기반 마이크로유체칩
- 종이는 다공질이며 셀룰로오스 기반으로, 모세관 작용을 통해 자연스럽게 액체를 흡수합니다.
- 채널 형성은 소수성 패터닝을 통해 이루어지며, 액체는 친수성 영역을 따라 이동하도록 유도됩니다.
- 외부 펌프 없이도 유체가 수동적으로 흐르므로 간단한 시스템으로 충분합니다.
🛠️ 제작 방법
✅ 저비용, 간단한 공정 – 휴대용 진단 장치 제작에 이상적
**일반적인 제작 기법:**
- 왁스 인쇄 (가장 일반적)
- 잉크젯 인쇄
- 플렉소그래피
- 스크린 인쇄
- 포토리소그래피
- 종이 절단
왁스 인쇄 : 패턴을 생성한 후 가열하여 왁스를 녹여 소수성 경계를 만들고, 이를 통해 유체 흐름을 유도합니다.
**⚠️** 한계점
- 최소 채널 너비 가~200 µm 로 정밀한 가공은 어려움. (PDMS/유리는 ~20 µm까지 가능)
- 표면 장력이 낮은 액체에서는 유체 제어가 어려움
- 외부 압력 기반 시스템 또는 펌프와 호환되지 않음
- 아직까지는 고급 마이크로유체 응용이 제한적임
✅ 왜 종이를 사용하는가?
- 초저비용, 일회용, 제작이 매우 용이함
- 현장진단(POCT) 및 개인 맞춤형 진단에 적합
- 외부 전원이나 장비가 필요하지 않음
### 4. 하이드로젤 마이크로유체칩
- 하이드로젤은 친수성, 다공질 구조를 가진 생체적합성 3차원 폴리머 네트워크(천연 또는 합성)로, 물을 90% 이상 흡수 할 수 있습니다.
- 세포 포집, 생물학적 조직 환경 모방, 제어된 3D 미세환경 구현에 이상적이며, 주요 종류로는 아가로스 , 매트리겔 , PEG-DA , 알지네이트 , 키틴 등이 있습니다.
왜 하이드로젤을 마이크로유체 기술에 사용하는가?
✅ 생체적합성 – 세포 생존과 조직 기능 유지에 유리
✅ 투과성 – 영양소, 약물, 신호 분자의 확산 가능
✅ 투명성 – 현미경 및 이미징 관찰에 최적
✅ 생체모방 환경 – 실제와 유사한 3D 세포 배양 및 농도 기울기 생성 가능
그림 2 **:**
(A) petri dish 안에 위치한 3개의 마이크로소자. 중앙에는 배양 챔버(확대도 C), 주변에 6개의 채널이 구성되어 있음.
(B) 한 소자의 중앙 채널에서 노란색 콜라겐 하이드로젤이 중심 배양실로 흐르고 있으며, 양측 채널에서는 파란색 물이 펌프를 통해 흐름.
(C) 양측 채널을 통해 배양액이 흐름.
(D) 형광 염료를 이용한 세포 모니터링 \[3\].
🛠️ 제작 방법
하이드로젤을 마이크로유체칩에 통합하는 다양한 방법이 존재하며\[4\], 대표적으로 다음과 같은 기술들이 사용됩니다:
1. **소프트 리소그래피 (Soft Lithography)**
- PDMS 또는 포토레지스트로 만든 몰드 사용
- 액상 젤을 붓고 경화 후 박리하여 구조 형성
- 2D 및 층상 구조의 준-3D 하이드로젤 구조 제작 가능
2. **광중합 (Photopolymerization)**
- UV 조사를 이용해 고해상도 구조 형성
- 세 가지 방식: 균일 조사, 마스크 기반 프린팅, 직접 조사
- 정밀한 3D 미세구조 구현 가능
3. **국소 통합 / 동축 유동 (Local Integration / Co-laminar Flow)**
- 미세채널 내에서 서로 다른 겔을 나란히 흐르게 하여 적층 구조 형성
- 현장 경화(in-situ solidification)로 복합 구조 안정화
- 동적인 다층 구조 구현에 유용
4. **일회용 템플릿 (Sacrificial Templates)**
- 3D 생분해성 템플릿 위에 젤 코팅 후 템플릿 용해 → 채널 형성
- 혈관 모방 구조나 조직 스캐폴드 제작에 활용 가능
**⚠️** 한계점
- 진정한 3D 구조의 기하학적 정밀 제어는 복잡함
- 경화 및 생체적합성을 위한 젤 성분의 최적화 필요
- 일부 젤은 기계적 강도가 낮거나 배치 간 변동성이 큼 (예: 마트리겔)
## 올바른 칩 선택하기
- 목적 파악 : 드롭렛 생성, 세포 분석, DNA 분석 등 사용 목적을 명확히 해야 합니다.
- 채널 설계 매칭 : 유동 조건에 따라 직선형, Y형, 교차형 또는 H형 네트워크 등을 선택합니다.
-
### 1. 응용 목적에 맞는 칩 소재 선택
- **실리콘 :** 화학적으로 안정적이고 열 전도성이 우수하지만 불투명하며 취약합니다.
- **유리** : 투명하고 비활성이며 생체적합성과 고압 저항성이 뛰어납니다. 광학 분석에 적합하지만 가공비가 높습니다.
- **폴리머 (PDMS, PMMA, COC, PS, PC) :**
**PDMS :** 연구에서 널리 사용됨 – 생체적합성, 기체 투과성, 유연성, 간단한 프로토타이핑 가능, 하지만 소수성이며 고압에는 부적합.
**열가소성 플라스틱 :** 자가형광 낮음, 광학적 특성이 우수하며 사출 성형을 통한 대량 생산에 적합.
### 2. 정밀한 유체 설계
- 채널 종류 선택 : 유동 요구사항에 따라 직선형, Y형, 교차형, H형 네트워크 등을 선택합니다.
- 유동 저항 및 전단력 계산 :
칩 및 튜빙의 기하학적 구조를 기반으로 이상적인 압력 및 유속 범위를 계산하는 도구 활용.
### 3. 적절한 압력/유속 설정
- 중간 수준의 압력 사용 : 예를 들어, 2 bar 시스템에서는 0.5–1.5 bar 범위 사용이 해상도 향상에 유리합니다.
- 튜빙 길이 및 지름 조절 : 저항 미세 조정 가능하지만, 막힘 방지 필요.
### 4. 막힘 방지 및 전단력 제어
- 좁은 채널은 막힘 위험 증가 : 중간 크기의 채널 선택 권장.
- 전단력 관리 : 특히 민감한 세포에는 압력 조절을 통해 전단력을 최소화해야 함.
### 5. 시스템 호환성 확보
- 칩, 튜빙, 펌프/컨트롤러, 코팅, 검출기 간 호환성 확인
- Fluigent 또는 기타 시스템 사용 시 , 즉시 사용 가능한 통합형 솔루션 선호.
****요약 표****
**단계** **주요 포커스** **응용 분야 정의** 분석 타입 결정 (예: 세포, DNA, 드롭렛, 오가논어칩) **소재 및 제작 선택** 광학 투명성, 압력 내성, 비용 균형 고려 **마이크로채널 + 튜빙 설계** 유동/저항 목표에 맞는 형상 및 크기 선택 **유속/압력 계산 및 최적화** 계산 도구 활용, 중간 시스템 조건 유지 **시스템 통합 가능성 확인** 물리적 및 기능적 호환성 보장 ## **유용한 도구 및 자료**
- 계산 도구 : 압력 및 유속 계산기, 전단력 계산기, 드롭렛 크기 예측기
- 소재 가이드 : PDMS, 유리, 폴리머, 실리콘의 장단점 비교
- 코팅 및 표면 처리 : 소수성/친수성 균형 조절 및 비특이적 흡착 감소에 활용
## 결론
최적의 마이크로유체 칩을 선택하기 위해서는 초기부터 다음과 같은 순서로 접근해야 합니다:
**응용 분야 → 소재 선택 → 설계 → 유체 제어 → 시스템 호환성**
계산 도구와 검증된 가이드라인을 활용하여 복잡성이나 과도한 비용 없이 효율적이고 정밀하며 신뢰성 있는 칩을 구현하세요.
참고문헌:
1. Ren, K., Zhou, J. & Wu, H. Materials for microfluidic chip fabrication. *Acc. Chem. Res.* **46**, 2396–2406 (2013).
2. McDonald, J. C. & Whitesides, G. M. Poly(dimethylsiloxane) as a material for fabricating microfluidic devices. *Acc. Chem. Res.* **35**, 491–499 (2002).
3. Ayuso, J. M. *et al.* Development and characterization of a microfluidic model of the tumour microenvironment. *Sci. Rep.* **6**, 1–16 (2016).
4. Zhang, X., Li, L. & Luo, C. Gel integration for microfluidic applications. *Lab Chip* **16**, 1757–1776 (2016).
## 관련 전문 지식
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
发现](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
---
### [마이크로유체역학 개요: 역사와 정의 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/what-is-microfluidics/)
**Published:** May 5, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 마이크로유체역학이란 무엇인가?
마이크로유체역학은 물리학, 공학, 생물학의 교차점에 있는 학문으로, 수십 년에 걸쳐 발전해왔습니다. 마이크로유체역학은 마이크로채널을 통해 흐르는 유체의 거동을 연구하는 과학이며, 챔버와 채널을 포함하는 초소형 장치를 사용하여 소량(10⁻⁶~10⁻¹² 리터)의 유체를 처리하거나 조작하는 기술입니다.
이 분야는 1990년대 이후 급격히 성장했으며, 생명과학 연구 및 바이오기술 전반에 필수적인 도구로 여겨지고 있습니다. 학계 연구자와 산업계 모두에게 매우 매력적인 기술로 자리잡았는데, 이는 샘플과 시약 소비를 크게 줄이고 실험 시간을 단축하며 응용 비용을 절감하기 때문입니다.
## 마이크로유체역학의 작동 원리
마이크로유체역학은 작은 부피와 공간을 활용하여 매우 정밀한 유체 제어를 다룹니다. “마이크로”라는 접두사는 다음 특징 중 하나 이상을 나타냅니다:
- **작은 부피 (µL, nL, pL, fL)**
- **작은 크기 (mm, µm)**
마이크로유체 칩은 마이크로채널이 형성되거나 패턴화된 장치로, 마이크로채널은 서로 연결되어 유체가 한 위치에서 다른 위치로 이동할 수 있도록 합니다.
액티브 마이크로유체역학은 마이크로펌프나 마이크로밸브와 같은 액티브 구성 요소를 통해 유체를 처리하는 것을 의미합니다. 압력 구동 컨트롤러, 펌프식 또는 주사기 펌프와 같은 마이크로펌프는 연속적으로 유체를 공급하거나 용량 조절에 사용됩니다. 반면 마이크로밸브는 정확한 양의 샘플이나 버퍼를 주입할 수 있습니다.
## 마이크로유체 시스템의 구성 요소
마이크로유체 시스템은 일반적으로 마이크로 수준에서 유체의 흐름을 조작하고 제어하도록 설계된 다양한 구성 요소로 이루어져 있습니다. 여기에는 다음과 같은 일반적인 구성 요소가 포함됩니다:
- **마이크로채널** : 유체가 흐르는 작은 복잡한 경로로, 종종 포토리소그래피와 같은 미세 가공 기술로 제작됩니다.
- **저장소** : 유체가 로드되거나 수집되는 지점으로, 조작 중인 액체의 원천 및 목적지 역할을 합니다.
- **[마이크로유체 밸브 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/ "마이크로유체 밸브 ")**: 마이크로채널 내부의 유체 흐름을 조절합니다. 채널의 형상에 의존하는 수동형 또는 전자적으로 제어되는 능동형일 수 있습니다. 밸브는 필요에 따라 유체 흐름을 방향 지정하거나 중단하는 데 중요합니다.
- **[마이크로유체 펌프](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)** : 마이크로채널을 통해 유체를 움직이도록 압력 또는 흐름을 생성합니다. 주사기 펌프나 펌프식 펌프 등 여러 유형의 펌프가 마이크로유체 시스템에 통합될 수 있습니다.
- **센서 :** 광학적 또는 전기화학적 센서가 통합되어 유체의 속성을 감지하고 분석하여 실시간 모니터링 및 피드백을 제공합니다.
- **검출기 :** 유체의 특정 신호 또는 변화를 식별합니다. 일반적인 검출기로는 광학 분석을 위한 광검출기나 전기화학적 센싱을 위한 전극이 있습니다.
- **마이크로유체 칩 :** 마이크로유체 칩 자체는 모든 채널, 밸브 및 기타 요소가 통합된 물리적 플랫폼으로 중요한 구성 요소입니다. 일반적으로 유리나 폴리머 재료로 만들어집니다.
- **소프트웨어 및 제어 시스템 :** 마이크로유체 시스템의 작동을 프로그래밍하고 모니터링하는 데 사용됩니다. 펌프와 밸브와 같은 다양한 구성 요소를 제어하여 특정 유체 프로세스를 실행합니다.
일부 시스템은 믹서, 마이크로밸브, 검출기, 온도 조절기 등의 추가 구성 요소를 포함합니다. 이러한 구성 요소들은 화학 분석 및 합성에서 생물학 연구 및 진단에 이르기까지 다양한 작업을 수행할 수 있는 마이크로유체 시스템을 조화롭게 작동시킵니다.
## 마이크로유체역학의 장점 및 핵심 원리
마이크로유체역학은 학계 연구자와 산업계 모두에게 다양한 이점을 제공하는 매우 매력적인 기술입니다.
마이크로미터 스케일에서 유체의 행동이 변화하며 다음과 같은 여러 장점이 나타납니다:
- 빠른 열 전달
- 증가된 표면적 대 부피 비율
- 층류 흐름
- 확산 혼합 가능성
또한 마이크로유체역학은 샘플과 시약 소비를 크게 줄이고 실험 시간을 단축하며 응용 비용을 절감합니다.
전반적인 결과는 효율성의 큰 증가로, 자원 사용과 응용 비용을 크게 줄입니다.
### 초소형 실험실을 위한 마이크로유체역학
마이크로유체역학과 관련된 핵심 개념은 일반적으로 전체 실험실이 필요한 작업을 간단한 마이크로 크기의 시스템으로 통합할 수 있는 능력입니다. 현재, 전통적인 규모 확장은 다중화로 대체되어 장치의 소형화 덕분에 공정 시간이 크게 단축되고 있습니다. 이는 분석 목적으로뿐만 아니라 나노의학, 정밀 화학, 식품, 환경, 제약 산업과 같은 공정 산업에서 대규모 제조에도 적용됩니다.
다이내믹한 마이크로유체역학 분야를 통해 새로운 가능성이 열립니다.
- **실험 정확성 :** 마이크로유체역학은 연구자들이 과학적 문제의 정밀도를 높이고 분자 수준에서 상상할 수 없었던 통찰력을 제공합니다.
- **고효율 :** 마이크로유체역학은 병렬 분석을 가능하게 하여 여러 실험을 동시에 실행할 수 있게 해줍니다.
- **비용 절감** : 마이크로유체역학은 작업 품질을 저하시키지 않으면서 비용을 줄이는 방법을 제공합니다.
- **시간 절약 :** 연구에서 가장 중요한 자원인 시간은 마이크로유체역학을 통해 실험 시간을 크게 줄임으로써 가치 있는 동맹군이 됩니다.
- **정밀성과 실용성 :** 마이크로유체역학은 효율성을 발전의 상징으로 삼아 연구와 산업의 지형을 재편하고 있으며 다양한 분야에서 무한한 가능성을 가지고 있습니다.
### 정밀 제어와 자동화
마이크로유체 시스템은 우수한 데이터 품질과 개선된 매개변수 제어를 제공하여 높은 성능을 유지하면서 프로세스 자동화를 가능하게 합니다. 이러한 시스템은 최소한의 샘플 처리만으로도 샘플을 처리하고 분석할 수 있습니다. 마이크로유체 칩은 유체 처리 시스템과 결합되어 낮은 전문 지식으로도 다단계 반응을 생성할 수 있는 통합 자동화를 달성합니다.
마이크로유체역학의 장점 1
## 마이크로유체역학의 기원: 인쇄기의 유체 처리 시스템
마이크로유체역학의 역사는 1950년대로 거슬러 올라가며 주로 잉크젯 프린터 제조에서 시작되었습니다. 이러한 프린터의 메커니즘은 마이크로유체역학에 기반하며 인쇄용 잉크를 운반하는 매우 작은 튜브를 사용합니다.
1970년대에는 실리콘 웨이퍼에 미니어처 가스 크로마토그래프가 제작되었으며, 1980년대 말에는 실리콘 미세 가공 기술을 기반으로 한 최초의 마이크로 밸브와 마이크로 펌프가 발표되었습니다. 그 후 몇 년 동안 여러 실리콘 기반 분석 시스템이 발표되었습니다.
이 모든 예는 유체 부피를 정밀하게 제어하고 유체 처리 시스템을 소형화한다는 점에서 마이크로유체 시스템을 나타냅니다.
이 분야에서 주요 기여 중 하나는 빠른 프로토타이핑 폴리머인 폴리디메틸실록산(PDMS)에서 소프트 리소그래피 기술을 개발한 것으로, 이를 통해 프로토타입 장치를 제작하고 새로운 아이디어를 테스트할 수 있었습니다.
미세 유체학의 역사와 발전
### 마이크로유체역학의 확장과 구성 요소 개발
1990년대에는 미세 가공 기술의 발전으로 마이크로유체 시스템의 가능성이 크게 확장되었습니다. 연구자들은 화학 분석에서 의료 진단에 이르는 응용을 위해 랩온어칩(Lab-on-a-Chip) 장치를 설계하기 시작했습니다. 이 시대에는 최초로 센서와 밸브가 통합된 마이크로유체 장치가 등장했습니다.
21세기가 시작되면서 마이크로유체역학은 급격한 인기를 끌었습니다. 이 기술은 게놈학, 프로테오믹스, 약물 발견, 그리고 현장 진단에 응용되었습니다. 연구자들은 인간 생리학 조건을 재현하여 더 정확한 테스트를 수행할 수 있는 오가노이드 모델의 잠재력을 탐구했습니다.
현재에도 마이크로유체역학은 정밀성, 확장성, 그리고 다른 과학 분야와의 통합을 향상시키기 위한 연구가 계속 진행되고 있습니다.
수년에 걸쳐 연구자들은 유체 운반, 유체 계량, 유체 혼합, 밸브 제어, 또는 소량의 유체 내 분자의 농축과 분리를 위한 새로운 마이크로유체 구성 요소 개발에 많은 시간을 투자했습니다.
예를 들어, 2006년 Fluigent은 마이크로유체역학에서 유체를 처리하는 새로운 방식인 마이크로유체 압력 펌프를 처음으로 도입한 회사였습니다.
주사기 펌프 대신 압력 기반 펌프를 사용하면 매우 빠른 반응 시간과 맥동 없는 흐름이 가능합니다. 처음에는 이러한 펌프가 마이크로유체 칩 내부의 액체 압력만 제어할 수 있었지만, 나중에 유량 센서와 독특한 피드백 제어 루프를 추가함으로써 Fluigent은 압력과 유량 모두를 제어할 수 있게 되었습니다. 마이크로유체 장치 내 유체의 정밀한 제어는 이전에는 불가능했던 정교한 새로운 응용을 가능하게 했습니다.
최근에는 소규모 스타트업부터 대형 제약 및 생명공학 기업에 이르기까지 다양한 주체들이 개발한 마이크로유체 기반 장치가 점점 더 많이 출시되어 시장에 진입하고 있습니다.
## 비교 예시: 왜 로봇 대신 마이크로유체 장치를 선택할까?
필요한 부피가 적기 때문에 마이크로유체 기술은 기존 실험실 기술에 대한 유망한 대안을 제공합니다. 이 기술은 몇 제곱센티미터 크기의 단일 칩에서 완전한 실험실 프로토콜을 실행할 수 있게 합니다. 표 1은 주어진 실험(일반적인 효소의 초고속 스크리닝)에서 전통적인 실험실 분석 대신 마이크로유체를 사용했을 때의 주요 장점을 보여줍니다.
로봇미세 유체 방울총 반응 수 5 × 107 5 × 107 반응 부피 100 µL 6 pL 총 부피 5,000 L 150 µL 하루 반응 수 73,000 1 × 108 총 시간 2년 7시간 플레이트/장치 수 260,000 2플레이트/장치 비용 $ 520,000 $1.00 팁 비용 $1,000만 $0.30 장비 감가상각 비용 $ 280,000 $1.70 기질 비용 $475만 $0.25 총 비용 $1,581만 $2.50 *표: 전통적인 방법과 마이크로유체 에멀젼을 사용한 비교*
*(Agresti J. J. et al, Ultrahigh-throughput screening in drop-based microfluidics for directed evolution, PNAS 2010, 107:4004-4009에서 허가를 받아 수정. Copyright 2010 National Academy of Sciences, U.S.A \[2\])*
현미경을 통한 마이크로유체 기반 고처리량 스크리닝 실험 이미지
마이크로유체역학의 영향을 더 잘 이해하기 위해 우리는 컴퓨터의 발전과 유사점을 비교할 수 있습니다. 1960년대에는 컴퓨터를 작동하기 위해 전체 방이 필요했습니다. 그 이후로 모든 구성 요소가 크기가 줄었고, 노트북 제품들이 등장했습니다.
이제는 단순한 스마트폰이 이전에 만들어진 어떤 컴퓨터보다도 더 강력해졌으며, 이는 가격을 낮추고 훨씬 더 사용자 친화적인 경험을 제공합니다. 마이크로유체역학도 마찬가지입니다!
## 마이크로유체역학 응용 개요
**마이크로유체역학은 다양한 분야에서 매력적인 기술입니다.**
마이크로유체역학은 정밀한 액체 주입 능력을 세포 관류 및 드롭렛 생성 분야로 확장하여, 전통적인 “칩 위 실험실(lab on a chip)” 및 “칩 위 장기(organ on a chip)” 기술의 한계를 벗어나고 있습니다.
작은 유체 부피에 대한 복잡한 제어로 유명한 마이크로유체역학은 기존의 경계를 넘어 다양한 분야에서 응용되고 있습니다.
- **화장품 :** 마이크로유체역학은 에멀젼 및 포뮬러를 정밀하게 설계하고, 효율성과 정확성을 높여 제품 개발을 혁신하는 핵심 역할을 합니다.
- **제약 :** 특히 약물 발견 과정에서 마이크로유체역학은 실험을 가속화하며, 세련되고 자원 효율적인 접근법을 제공합니다.
- **의료 분야 :** 의료 분야는 개인 맞춤형 진단 및 치료에 기여하는 마이크로유체역학으로부터 큰 혜택을 받고 있습니다. 소량의 유체를 조작하는 높은 정밀성 덕분에 새로운 진단 방법과 맞춤형 의료 중재가 가능해졌습니다.
- **화학 :** 마이크로유체역학은 화학 공정을 최적화하는 플로우 합성 및 화학량론 도구로 등장했습니다.
- **생물학 :** 생물학자들은 마이크로유체역학을 세포 배양 및 3D 프린팅에 활용하여 생리학적 조건을 모방하는 환경을 구축합니다.
- **드롭렛 생성 :** 드롭렛 생성 및 조작에 있어 마이크로유체역학은 높은 정밀도로 주목받는 중요한 도구로 자리 잡았습니다.
- **에너지 응용 :** 마이크로유체역학은 강화된 석유 회수(EOR) 모델 및 플라즈마 제어 연구에서 중요한 역할을 하며, 다양한 과학 분야에서 적응성을 보여줍니다.
- **산업 응용 :** 마이크로유체역학은 산업 분야에서 효율성, 정밀성, 비용 효율성을 높이는 플랫폼을 제공합니다.
### 산업 응용을 위한 마이크로유체 기술 활용
- **고처리량 스크리닝(High-Throughput Screening):**
마이크로유체 장치는 빠르고 병렬 처리가 가능한 실험 수행에서 뛰어난 성능을 보여줍니다. 이는 제약 및 생명공학 산업에서 고처리량 스크리닝에 이상적인 도구입니다. 다양한 조건을 신속하게 테스트할 수 있어 시간과 자원 요구를 줄이는 데 기여합니다.
- **공정 소형화(Process Miniaturization):**
마이크로유체 시스템은 공정의 소형화를 가능하게 하여 샘플과 시약 소비를 줄입니다. 이는 비용 절감뿐만 아니라 희소하거나 고가의 재료를 다루는 데 유리합니다.
- **현장 진단(Point-of-Care Diagnostics):**
마이크로유체역학은 현장에서 사용할 수 있는 휴대용 진단 도구 개발에 중요한 역할을 합니다. 이러한 장치는 실시간 모니터링을 위해 산업 환경에서 활용될 수 있으며, 품질 관리를 보장하고 가동 중단 시간을 최소화합니다.
- **맞춤형 제조(Customized Manufacturing):**
마이크로유체 기술은 특정 제품 개발에 필요한 조건을 충족하기 위한 맞춤형 미세 환경을 구축하는 데 활용됩니다. 이는 특히 최적의 결과를 얻기 위해 특정 조건이 필요한 응용 분야에서 유리합니다. 맞춤형 솔루션: 엔지니어링 박스
- [자동화 및 통합(Automation and Integration): ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/full-customization/ "자동화 및 통합(Automation and Integration): ")
마이크로유체 구성 요소는 자동화 시스템에 쉽게 통합되어 공정을 간소화하고 수동 개입의 필요성을 줄입니다. 이를 통해 산업 응용에서 전체 작업 효율성을 향상시킬 수 있습니다.
이러한 방식으로 마이크로유체 기술을 활용하면 산업은 공정을 개선하고, 비용을 줄이며, 전반적인 생산성을 향상시킬 수 있습니다.
- [
### 아이디어에서 생산까지
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
- [
### 미세유체OEM
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
마이크로플루идics가 어떻게 연구를 한 단계 끌어올릴 수 있는지 궁금하신가요? 저희 솔루션이 어떻게 가장 야심찬 설계를 현실로 실현할 수 있도록 도와드리는지 함께 알아보세요.
[👉 전문가와 상담하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[마이크로플루идics 기술에 대한 무료 리뷰를 다운로드하세요](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
## 결론
마이크로유체역학은 혁신적인 새로운 가능성을 제공합니다. 이는 여전히 매우 새로운 기술이며, 유체 물리학 전문가가 아닌 임상의, 세포 생물학자, 공중 보건 담당자와 같은 사용자들을 위해 해결해야 할 많은 문제가 남아 있습니다.
마이크로유체 응용 및 제품은 이미 시장에 존재하며, 특히 나노의학 분야에서 DNA, 단백질, 박테리아 등 분자의 더 정밀한 분석 또는 단일 세포 수준에서의 분석을 가능하게 하고 있습니다. 고처리량 스크리닝 및 오가노이드 기술의 지속적인 발전은 더 빠르고 더 나은 약물 개발로 이어질 것입니다. 랩온어칩(Lab-on-a-Chip)과 마이크로 TAS(Micro Total Analysis Systems)의 발전, 그리고 마이크로유체 기술과 자동화의 결합 가능성으로 인해 새로운 진단 제품은 더 저렴하고 빨라질 것이며, 개발도상국에 혜택을 가져올 것입니다.
## 관련 전문 지식
- [
### 세포 및 조직의 미세 피펫 흡인
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/micropipette-aspiration/)
- [
### Microfluidic(미세유체) Droplet 생성 방법
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidic%eb%af%b8%ec%84%b8%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-droplet-%ec%83%9d%ec%84%b1-%eb%b0%a9%eb%b2%95/)
- [
### 정밀 유체 제어를 위한 미세유체 솔루션
발견](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
발견](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 체학 기술을 위한 고급 솔루션
발견](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics/)
- [
### 액적 생산을 위한 고급 솔루션
발견](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
## **참고 문헌**
1. Bahnemann, J.; Grünberge, A. Microfluidics in Biotechnology: Overview and Status Quo. Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology book series, 2022, ABE,volume 179.
2. Agresti, J. J.; Antipov, E.; Abate, A. R.; Ahn, K.; Rowat, A. C.; Baret, J.-C.; Marquez, M.; Klibanov, A. M.; Griffiths, A. D.; Weitz, D. A. Ultrahigh-Throughput Screening in Drop-Based Microfluidics for Directed Evolution. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 2010, 107 (9), 4004–4009.
---
### [Microfluidic(미세유체) Droplet 생성 방법 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/microfluidic미세유체-droplet-생성-방법/)
**Published:** March 12, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Droplet microfluidics의 정의
Droplet microfluidics는 균일한 micrometer 크기의 droplet을 생성하고 조작할 수 있는 강력한 기술이다. Microfluidics 기반의 droplet 생성 및 제어는 다음과 같은 장점을 제공한다:
- 기존의 batch emulsion 방식과 달리 연속적인**(in-line) droplet 생성**을 통해 높은 균일성(monodispersity) 확보
- 각각의 droplet을 **pL 단위의 biochemical reactor**로 활용 가능
- droplet 생성을 통한 **생산 공정 및 생체 분석 장치의 소형화** 실현
Microfluidics 기반의 droplet은 입자 합성\[1\] 및 물리화학적 분석\[2\]을 포함한 다양한 응용 분야에서 활용된다. 또한, 정밀한 droplet 제어를 통해 단일 세포 분석\[3\] 및 신약 테스트\[4\]\[5\] 등의 연구도 가능하다.
그림1 water in oil droplets
## microfluidic droplet은 어떻게 생성될까?
microfluidic 기반의 droplet 생성은 일반적으로 물과 기름처럼 같은 서로 섞이지 않는 두 개의 액체를 활용한다. droplet 생성은 microfluidic 칩을 이용하여 이루어지며, 칩의 설계 및 재료에 따라 다양한 물리적 요인이 영향을 미친다. droplet 생성을 위한 대표적인 microfluidic 칩 설계 방식으로는 **동류(co-flow), T-접합(T-junction), 유동 집중(flow-focusing)** 방식이 있다\[6\]\[7\]\[8\]\[9\].
### 동류(co-flow) 방식의 droplet 생성
동류 방식은 내부 모세관을 통해 분산상이 흐르고, 외부 모세관을 통해 연속상이 흐르는 **동심 모세관 구조**를 갖는다. 분산상이 주 채널로 유입될 때, 연속상이 가하는 점성 스트레스(viscous stress)에 의해 인터페이스가 늘어나다가 단절되면서 droplet이 형성된다\[7\]\[10\]\[11\]\[12\]\[13\].
이 방식의 주요 장점은 **구조가 단순하다**는 점이다. 하지만 droplet의 크기와 생성 빈도가 제한적이라는 단점이 있다.
그림2 co flow
### T-접합(T-junction) 방식의 droplet 생성
T-접합 방식(Thorsen et al in 2001. \[16\])은 가장 단순하면서도 널리 사용되는 droplet 생성 방법이다.
이 방식에서는 **분산상이 연속상의 흐름과 직각으로 주입**되며, 두 유체가 T-접합 지점에서 만나면 연속상이 분산상을 전단(shear)하여 droplet이 생성된다\[17\]\[18\]\[19\].
T-접합 방식의 장점은 **설계가 간단하고, droplet 생성 원리를 쉽게 이해하고 제어할 수 있다**는 점이다. 또한, **droplet 크기 및 생성 빈도를 정밀하게 조절**할 수 있다. 그러나 칩의 설계 및 재료에 의해 생성 가능한 droplet의 크기 및 빈도 범위가 제한된다.
그림3 T juction
### 유동 집중(flow-focusing) 방식의 droplet 생성
유동 집중 방식(Anna et. al. in 2003 \[14\])은 **분산상이 주 채널로 직접 주입되고, 연속상은 수직으로 배치된 두 개의 채널을 통해 주입**된다. 이때, 연속상이 분산상을 양쪽에서 압착(pinching)하면서, 점성력(viscous force)과 표면 장력(surface tension)의 상호작용에 의해 droplet이 형성된다\[15\].
T-접합 방식과 비교했을 때, 유동 집중 방식은 **대칭적인 흐름 구조를 가지며, droplet 크기 및 생성 빈도의 유연성이 높다**는 장점이 있다. 하지만 droplet 단절 현상에 대한 연구 및 제어 기술이 아직 제한적이다.
그림4 flow focusing
## droplet 생성 방식
microfluidic 기반의 droplet 생성 방식은 실험 조건에 따라 다양한 생성 패턴(regime)을 나타낸다. 주요 패턴은 다음과 같다:
- **스퀴징(squeezing)**: droplet이 채널의 전체 너비를 차지하는 **플러그(plug) 형태**로 생성됨. 분산상과 연속상의 유량 비율에 의해 크기 조절 가능.
- **드리핑(dripping)**: droplet이 채널의 너비와 유사한 **구형 형태**로 생성되며, 점성 전단력(viscous shear force)에 의해 단절됨. 작은 방울이 일정하게 생성되는 패턴
- **제팅(jetting)**: droplet이 두 유체의 교차점에서 떨어진 곳에서 **고속으로 생성**되며, 매우 작은 크기의 droplet을 높은 빈도로 생성됨
- **안정적인 co-flow**: 두 유체가 서로 섞이지 않고 나란히 흐르는 패턴
그림5 Droplet 생성 패턴
## Drop-Seq 기술 개요
그림 6 Droplet 생성Fluigent Droplet Starter Pack
Drop-Seq과 In-Drop 기술은 micro유체학을 이용하여 **단일 세포를 droplet 내에 캡슐화하여 동시에 수천 개의 세포를 분석**할 수 있도록 한다. 이 기술은 DNA 및 RNA 발현을 연구하는 데 필수적인 도구로, 암, 자가면역질환, 당뇨병 등의 질환 연구에 활용될 수 있다.
## micro유체 기반의 dPCR 최신 연구 동향
디지털 PCR(dPCR)은 기존 PCR 대비 높은 민감도와 정량적 분석이 가능한 기술로, micro유체학과 결합하여 단일 세포 및 PCR 혼합물을 micro droplet 내에 캡슐화 할 수 있다. 이 방식은 **고속 droplet 생성 빈도와 적은 시약 소비량**을 통해 **대량 증폭과 비용 절감**을 동시에 실현할 수 있다.
그림 7 Single Cell encapsulation in droplets
### Fluigent Droplet 생성 패키지
그림8 Fluigent Droplet Starter Pack System
Fluigent의 droplet 생성 패키지는 **droplet 크기 및 생성 빈도를 제어할 수 있는 통합 솔루션**을 제공한다. 패키지에는 다음과 같은 구성품이 포함된다:
- **압력 컨트롤러**: Flow EZ
- **유량 센서**: Flow Unit
- **droplet 생성 칩**: Fluigent EZ-Drop
- **계면활성제가 포함된 연속상**: dSURF
- **튜빙 및 리저버**
## 복합 에멀전 생성 플랫폼
Fluigent의 복합 에멀전 생성 플랫폼은 **이중 에멀전(double emulsion), 키토산 micro캡슐, PLGA micro캡슐, UV-중합 micro캡슐** 등 다양한 복합 구조를 제어하며 생성할 수 있도록 설계된 전용 시스템이다. 패키지에는 다음과 같은 구성품이 포함된다:
- 압력 컨트롤러: Flow EZ
- 유량 센서: Flow Unit
- droplet 생성 칩: Raydrop
- 초고속 카메라
- 튜빙 및 리저버
그림9 Fluigent Complex emulsion production platform
[Fluigent 액적 및 입자 생성 제품에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
[Fluigent 액적 및 입자 생성 기술에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
**이 사용하기 쉬운 플랫폼은 다수의 응용 프로그램을 대상으로 드롭 생성 및 제어를 가능하게 합니다:**
### 이중 에멀전
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
### 키토산 마이크로캡슐
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
### PLGA 마이크로캡슐
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
### UV 경화 마이크로캡슐
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
## Scientific references
\[1\] Jean-Christophe Galas, Denis Bartolo and Vincent Studer, « Active connectors for microfluidic drops on demand », New Journal of Physics, n°11, 075027, 2009
\[2\] M. C. Jullien, et al., “Droplet breakup in microfluidic Tjunctions at small capillary numbers”, Physics of fluids, n°21, 072001, 2009
\[3\] Macosko et al, “Highly Parallel Genome-Wide Expression Profiling of Individual Cells Using Nanoliter Droplets, n° ,pp 1202-1214, 2015
\[4\] L. Yu, M. C. W. Chen, K. C. Cheung, “Droplet-based microfluidic system for multicellular tumor spheroid formation and anticancer drug testing”, Lab Chip, n°10, pp. 2424-2432, 2010
\[5\] Shembekar et al, « Droplet-based microfluidics in drug discovery » Lab Chip, n°16, pp. 1314-1331, 2016
\[6\] Ralf Seemann et al, « Droplet based micro?uidics », 2011
\[7\] Tomasz Glawdela, Caglar Elbuken and Carolyn L. Ren, « Droplet Generation in Microfluidics », 2013
\[8\] Pingan Zhuab and Liqiu Wang, « Passive and active droplet generation with microfluidics: a review » , Lab Chip, n°17, pp. 34-75, 2017
\[9\] G F Christopher and S L Anna, « Microfluidic methods for generating continuous droplet streams », 2007
\[10\] Pingan Zhu · Xin Tang · Liqiu Wang « Droplet generation in co?flow microfluidic channels with vibration », 2016
\[11\] C. Cramer, P. Fischer, and E. J. Windhab, 2004. “Drop formation in a co–flowing ambient fluid,” *Chemical Engineering Science*, vol. 59, pp. 3045–3058
\[12\] Y. Hong and F. Wang, 2007. “Flow rate effect on droplet control in a co-flowing microfluidic device,” *Microfluidics and Nanofluidics*, vol. 3, pp. 341–346
\[13\] R. Xiong, M. Bai, and J. Chung, 2007. “Formation of bubbles in a simple co–flowing microchannel,” *Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering*, vol. 17, pp. 1002–1011,
\[14\] Shelley L. Anna, Nathalie Bontoux and Howard A. Stone, « Formation of dispersions using ‘‘?ow focusing’’ in microchannels », 2002
\[15\] A. M. Ganan-Calvo and J. M. Gordillo “Perfectly monodisperse microbubbling by capillary flow focusing,” *Physical Review Letters*, vol. 87, p. 274501, , 2001
\[16\] T. Thorsen, Richard W. Roberts, Frances H. Arnold et S.R. Quake : Dynamic pattern formation in a vesicle-generating microfluidic device. Physical Review Letters, 86(18):4163–4166, 2001
\[17\] Tomasz Glawdel • Carolyn L. Ren , « Global network design for robust operation of micro?uidic droplet generators with pressure-driven ?ow », 2012
\[18\] Evandro Piccin, Davide Ferraro, Paolo Sartori , Enrico Chiarello, Matteo Pierno, Giampaolo Mistura, « Generation of water-in-oil and oil-in-water microdroplets in polyester-toner microfluidic devices », 2014
\[19\] Qiang Liao, Shu-Zhe Li, Rong Chen, Hong Wang, Xun Zhu, Wei Zhang, and Xue-Feng He, « Coalescence with droplets caused acceleration of the liquid movement in microchannels »,2015
---
### [마이크로유체 블로그](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/)
**Published:** March 11, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### Microfluidic(미세유체) Droplet 생성 방법
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidic%eb%af%b8%ec%84%b8%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-droplet-%ec%83%9d%ec%84%b1-%eb%b0%a9%eb%b2%95/)
- [
### 세포 및 조직의 미세 피펫 흡인
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/micropipette-aspiration/)
- [
### 마이크로유체역학 개요: 역사와 정의
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/what-is-microfluidics/)
- [
### 약물 전달 분야의 마이크로플루이딕스: 정밀 의학의 새로운 시대
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-drug-delivery/)
- [
### 마이크로유체칩: 작동 원리 및 올바른 칩 선택 방법
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [
### 왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 오간온어칩 연구에서의 압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
- [
### 미세유체 관류 최적화: 모범 사례와 혁신
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/)
- [
### 신뢰성 있는 드롭렛 생성을 위한 10가지 팁
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/10-tips-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 미세유체에서의 흐름 제어 기술: 신뢰할 수 있는 결과를 위한 적절한 펌프 선택
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
- [
### 첨단 오가노이드 모델링에서 마이크로유체공학의 역할: 정적 환경에서 동적 환경으로
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
- [
### 현대 신약 개발 및 테스트에서의 장기온칩 플랫폼
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/organ-on-chip-in-drug-development/)
---
### [응용 및 전문 기술](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/)
**Published:** March 5, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
**마이크로유체 기술 (Microfluidics)** 은 마이크로미터 규모에서 유체 흐름을 연구하는 과학으로, 수십에서 수백 마이크로미터 규모에서 유체와 재료를 조작하는 일련의 기술 도구를 대표합니다. **Fluigent** 는 기존의 주사기 펌프 및 페리스탈틱 펌프와 구별되는 **압력 구동 유량 제어 기술**을 마이크로유체 연구 시장에 처음 도입한 기업입니다. 마이크로유체 분야의 선구자로서, 저희는 마이크로유체 제어의 기술 표준을 확립했으며 항상 과학의 최전선에 서 있도록 헌신하고 있습니다.
저희는 마이크로유체의 핵심 개념, 물리적 원리 및 기초 지식, 마이크로유체 시스템의 구성 요소, 기존 방법 대비 압력식 유량 컨트롤러의 장점, 그리고 **장기 칩 (Organ-on-chip)**, 세포 배양, 마이크로캡슐화, 액적 및 입자 생성 등 응용 분야에서의 실험 연구를 중심으로 풍부한 전문 콘텐츠를 제작했습니다. 또한, 마이크로유체 세포 생물학 분야에서 최신이자 가장 혁신적인 기술과 과학계에서 참고할 수 있는 비교 연구 결과도 확인하실 수 있습니다.
## **마이크로유체 블로그**
[****자세히 보기****](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/)
## **마이크로유체 응용 설명**
[****자세히 보기****](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/application-notes/)
---
### [스마트 미세유체](https://www.fluigent.com/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 연구 & 산업
미세유체 및 나노유체 분야에 사용할 수 있는 Fluigent의 광범위한 솔루션은 보다 뛰어난 제어, 자동화, 정밀도와 사용 편의성을 제공합니다. 고정밀 시린지 펌프 또는 다른 기존 기기의 교체를 원하는 경우 생산성을 높여주는 최신 미세유체 시스템 및 구성요소를 제공합니다.
당사의 혁신적인 압력 기반 미세유체 제어기는 랩온어칩 장치 및 다양한 미세유체 기술과 호환되므로 설정이 아닌 과학에 집중할 수 있게 해줍니다.
산업 응용분야를 위한 유체 처리 자동화 방법.
당사에서는 압력 및 미세유체 관련 지식과 전문성을 바탕으로 구성요소, 통합, 및 주문형 엔지니어링 서비스를 제공합니다.
## 연구
- [
### 고유량제어를위한미세유체
발견하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 액적생성을위한미세유체기술
발견하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
발견하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 체학응용분야를위한미세유체
발견하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
## 산업
산업 응용분야를 위한 유체 처리 자동화 방법.
당사에서는 압력 및 미세유체 관련 지식과 전문성을 바탕으로 구성요소, 통합, 및 주문형 엔지니어링 서비스를 제공합니다.
[
Combining Microfluidics and Spectroscopy Read](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/microfluidics-and-spectroscopy/)
[
Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications Read
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
### 제품
[
### 액체용 압력 컨트롤러
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/pressure-controllers-for-liquids/)
[
### OEM 미세유체 구성 요소
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/oem-microfluidic-components/)
[
### 완전 맞춤형 미세유체 장치
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## 주요 특징
### F-OEM 시리즈: 기기와 장치를 위한 최첨단 압력 및 유체 제어
당사의 **F-OEM**은 미세유체 및 나노유체 분야(마이크로채널, 나노채널, 모세관, 랩온어칩 등)를 비롯한 가장 까다로운 **산업 응용분야**를 지원할 수 있는 **최고의 성능**, 효율성, **가장 넓은 압력 및 유량 범위**를 제공합니다. 복잡한 유체 작업을 수행하는 **독립형 모듈식 플랫폼**입니다.
[더 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/pressure-controllers-for-liquids/)
## 마이크로유체 시장 및 응용 분야
생명과학부터 식품 산업에 이르기까지 주요 마이크로유체 시장을 살펴보고, 관련 응용 분야가 이 기술로부터 어떤 혜택을 얻는지 알아보세요.
[자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%ec%8b%9c%ec%9e%a5-%eb%b0%8f-%ec%9d%91%ec%9a%a9%eb%b6%84%ec%95%bc/)
## 당사와 협력해야 하는 이유
미세유체 연구실과 업계에서는 유체 제어 측면에서 요구되는 수준과 정밀도로 연구를 수행하고 장비를 개발하는 데 어려움을 겪고 있었습니다.
압력 펌프라는 혁신적인 기술을 도입하여 이 문제를 해결한 최초의 회사가 바로 Fluigent였습니다. 미세유체 및 나노유체 분야에 사용할 수 있는 Fluigent 고유의 광범위한 솔루션은 보다 뛰어난 제어, 자동화, 정밀도, 사용 편의성으로 유량을 완벽하게 제어하고 오염을 최소화합니다.
Fluigent는 전 세계 수백 개의 고객사에 수천 개의 특허받은 압력 유량 제어 시스템을 공급해 왔습니다.
[회사 소개](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%ed%9a%8c%ec%82%ac/)
**10개의**
국적
**60명의**
전 세계 직원
**20건의**
특허
**2개의**
자회사
**12개의**
유통업체
## 당사 뉴스
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company newsInsights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics July 16, 2024
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
---
### [시장 및 응용분야](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 생명 과학
미세유체 장치는 높은 시공간 정밀도로 세포 미세 환경을 제어하고 생리학적으로 보다 적절한 맥락에서 세포에 기계적 신호와 생화학적 신호를 인가할 수 있는 기능을 제공합니다.
- **현미경 검사 및 세포 생물학**: 유동 세포 또는 미세유체 칩을 유체 관류 시스템 및 현미경 검사법과 함께 사용하면 DNA 또는 RNA 부합법, 약물 병합 투여 및 장기 관류, 또는 면역염색법을 비롯한 여러 응용분야에서 진전을 이룰 수 있습니다.
- **세포 배양 및 장기 칩**: 이 기술은 인간 장기 기능의 기저를 이루는 분자 규모 및 세포 규모의 활동을 연구하고 *생체 외에서* 새로운 치료 표적을 확인하는 데 이상적인 미세 환경을 제공합니다.
- **디지털 PCR**: 미세유체 dPCR은 정량적 PCR(qPCR)에 비해 새로운 차원의 정밀도를 제공합니다. 액적 기반 미세유체 장치는 시료를 분획할 수 있는 탁월한 솔루션입니다.
## 제약
**약물 전달**: 미세입자와 유화액(emulsion)은 정맥 내, 근육 내, 안구 또는 경구로 전달되는 화합물을 비롯한 다양한 의약품에 사용됩니다. 유화액은 또한 고분자 미세입자, 지질 나노입자, 또는 마이크로캡슐의 템플릿으로도 사용됩니다. 후자는 약물 전달에 사용되며, 유화액은 약리활성물질(API) 자체이거나 병용 투여를 위한 보조제로 사용됩니다.
## 식품 산업
- **유화액 생산**: 액적이 다양한 크기 분포를 가지도록 생성되었을 때, 열역학적으로 안정적인 분산제로서의 고유한 특성으로 인해 유화액은 식품 산업의 여러 응용분야에 적합합니다.
- **식품 분석**: 식품 안전성 분석은 식품 오염과 품질을 관리하는 데 중요합니다. 현장에서 빠르고 정확한 식품 안전성 감지를 위한 효과적인 방법을 구축하는 것이 필요합니다. 미세유체 기반 분석 시스템은 분석 속도와 적은 시료 용량이라는 고유한 특성으로 인해 매력적인 선택입니다.
## 화장품
액적 기반 미세유체 장치는 화장품에 많은 장점을 제공합니다. 시약이 액적에 캡슐화되어 도포 순간까지 유효 성분을 보존할 수 있습니다. 액적은 피부에 직접 도포할 때까지 파열되지 않아 감각적인 체험과 보다 효율적인 보습을 제공합니다.
미세유체 장치는 기존의 일괄 방법과 비교할 수 없는 단순분산성을 제공하는 동시에 액적 크기, 제형 및 미감(색상, 색소)에 대한 뛰어난 제어 기능을 제공합니다. 제조업체는 브랜드 고유의 시각적, 감각적 느낌을 가진 맞춤형 제품을 개발할 수 있습니다.
## 수질 분석
물 안보(water security)는 많은 국제기구에 의해 21세기의 가장 큰 도전 과제 중 하나로 인식되고 있습니다. 사람과 동물의 소비를 위한, 담수, 해수, 하수, 식수 등 수자원에 대한 지속적인 모니터링은 반드시 필요합니다.
기존의 수질 모니터링은 주로 실험실 기기 또는 현장 분석을 위한 정교하고 값비싼 휴대형 프로브를 기반으로 합니다. 이를 위해서는 숙련된 인력이 필요하며 많은 시간이 소요될 수 있습니다.
미세유체 장치는 원격 위치에서 분석을 수행할 수 있는 방법을 제공하여 시료 채취 장소에서 제자리 분석을 가능하게 합니다. 미세유체 장치를 소형화된 화학 시스템에 통합할 경우 측정 시간 단축, 감도 개선, 선택성 향상, 높은 반복성 등의 이점을 얻을 수 있습니다.
### Fluigent는 유체 관리에 대한 강력한 전문성과 결합된 업계 최고 수준의 연구 기기와 산업용 제품 및 시스템을 제공하여 연구자와 산업을 지원합니다.
## 연구 솔루션
당사의 혁신적인 압력 기반 미세유체 제어기는 랩온어칩 장치 및 다양한 미세유체 기술과 호환되므로 설정이 아닌 과학에 집중할 수 있게 해줍니다.
[자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/)## 산업 솔루션
**산업 응용분야를 위한 유체 처리 자동화 방법.**
당사에서는 압력 및 미세유체 관련 지식과 전문성을 바탕으로 구성요소, 통합, 및 주문형 엔지니어링 서비스를 제공합니다.
[자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/)
---
### [OEM 응용분야 ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/)
**Published:** June 24, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### 미세유체 응용을 위한 F-OEM 밸브 자동화
자세히 읽어보고 적용 사례, 유체 밸브 자동화의 과제, F-OEM 유량 제어 플랫폼 사용 시 얻을 수 있는 이점에 대해 알아보세요.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/miseyucheoem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
- [
### 멀티플렉싱을 위한 국소화 현미경 검사 및 유량 제어
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/miseyucheoem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
---
### [최고의 유체 제어 시스템을 위한 미세유체 압력 컨트롤러 비교 ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 적합한 미세유체 흐름 제어 시스템 선택 방법
**비용 효과적인 압력
컨트롤러** **중간 압력
컨트롤러** **프리미엄 압력
컨트롤러(Fluigent)** ****정확성**** 중간 좋음 우수함 ****안정성**** 낮음~중간 중간 우수함 **응답 시간 및
감압** ++++++****센서 보정**** 사용 불가 사용 불가 사용 가능 **PID/알고리즘
성능** 아니요(아날로그 I/O 전용) 좋음 우수함 ****사용 준비 완료**** 아니요(DAQ) 아니요예****유량 센서 통합**** 사용 불가 사용 불가 사용 가능 ****유량 조절**** 아니요 아니요 예, Fluigent
알고리즘 사용 ****미세유체 밸브
통합 및 자동화**** 아니요 아니요 예 ****소음 없음**** 아니요 예 예 ****가격**** 낮음 중간 중간~높음 ****미세유체학 응용
분야와의 호환성**** 낮음 중간 높음 ****전형적인 응용 분야**** 일정한 압력 공급:
퀘이크(Quake) 밸브, 반도체 세포 배양 및 기본적인
액적 미세유체학 액적 미세유체학, 세포 배양(OOAC),
고급 형광 현미경 검사,
미세유체 분광법
*표 1: 미세유체 응용을 위한 압력 컨트롤러 비교*
미세유체 기술은 학술 연구에서 생명 과학, 화학, 식품 분야의 다양한 응용 분야에서 널리 사용됩니다. 이 기술은 분석 장치 및 생물반응기 산업에서도 점점 더 인기를 끌고 있고, 새로운 수준의 분석을 제공하며 더 신뢰할 수 있는 결과를 도출하고 시약 소비를 최소화하는 등 여러 이점을 제공합니다.
오늘날 널리 사용되는 확장된 응용 분야에는 세포 생물학, 정밀 관류 및 칩 상의 장기 연구를 위한 미세유체 기술이나 생물학적 캡슐화(디지털 PCR, 오가노이드)를 위한 액적 미세유체 기술이 포함됩니다.
## 산업용 유체 제어의 이점
미세유체 기술에 있어 신뢰할 수 있는 결과를 얻기 위해서 흐름 제어가 필수적입니다. 시장에는 시린지 펌프, 연동 펌프, 압력 컨트롤러를 포함한 여러 기술이 있습니다.
압력 제어는 시린지 펌프에 비해 일반적으로 더 높은 성능과 신뢰성을 제공하기 때문에 미세유체 기술에서 선호되는 기술입니다. 그러나 시장에 나와 있는 모든 압력 컨트롤러가 동등하지 않으며, 그 중 일부는 미세유체 기술에 적합하지 않습니다.
각각의 유형은 다양한 예산 제약과 연구 요구 사항에 맞춘 고유한 기능과 능력을 갖추고 있습니다. 사용자의 요구 사항에 따라, 높은 성능과 신뢰성을 우선시하는 경우가 많으며 이는 종종 높은 비용을 수반합니다. 반면 다른 경우에는 성능이 다소 저하될 수 있지만 가격을 합리적입니다.
## 다양한 압력 컨트롤러와 조절 장치가 넘쳐나는 시장에서 미세유체를 위한 최적의 압력 조절기는 무엇일까요?
### 압력 조절기에는 어떤 유형이 있나요?
시장에서 사용자들이 선택할 수 있는 3가지 유형의 압력 컨트롤러를 선정해 가성비와 품질 측면에서 비교했습니다.
- 비용 효율적인 압력 컨트롤러는 가장 기본적이고 저렴한 옵션입니다. 일반적으로 중급 및 프리미엄급 옵션에 비해 성능이 낮습니다.
- 중급 압력 컨트롤러는 가격과 성능 사이의 균형을 제공합니다. 비용 효율적인 압력 컨트롤러에 비해 개선된 성능을 제공하지만 여전히 합리적인 가격을 갖춥니다.
- 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러는 이름이 시사하듯 최고 수준의 정확성과 안정성을 제공합니다. 미세유체학 분야와 같이 정밀도와 신뢰성이 매우 중요한 응용 분야에서 주로 사용되도록 설계되었습니다. 여기에서 사용되는 압력 컨트롤러는 Fluigent Flow EZ 및 F-OEM입니다.
먼저, 3개의 압력 컨트롤러를 성능(정확도, 안정성, 응답 시간) 측면에서 비교한 후, 사용 용이성과 통합 가능성에 초점을 맞춰 살펴보겠습니다. 마지막으로 각 장치에서 구현 가능한 응용 분야에 대해 논의했습니다.
### 성능 기반의 압력 컨트롤러 선택
압력 컨트롤러를 선택할 때, 제품 데이터시트나 사용자 매뉴얼과 같은 제품 기술 문서에 나열된 사양을 비교하는 것이 일반적입니다. 제품의 정확도, 재현성, 또는 응답 시간과 같은 여러 중요한 매개변수들을 고려해야 합니다.
명백하게 사양을 벗어난 제품을 제거하는 것은 좋은 방법이지만, 일부 제조업체는 압력 컨트롤러를 구성하는 센서나 밸브에 근거한 사양을 제공하는 반면, 다른 제조업체는 실제 테스트에 근거한 데이터를 제공하는 경향이 있어서 이것은 복잡한 작업입니다.
사양뿐만 아니라 조절 알고리즘으로 인해 압력 컨트롤러의 일반적인 성능이 결정됩니다. 사실, 기본 압력 컨트롤러는 전압에 기반한 아날로그 통신만을 제공하는 반면, 일부는 실시간 피드백 루프를 제공하고 압력 센서의 피드백에 따라 압력을 조절할 수 있는 PID 컨트롤러를 제공할 수 있습니다. 이는 궁극적으로 압력 안정성, 정확도, 응답 시간 및 압력 변환에 영향을 미칩니다.
여기서는 0~1bar의 압력 범위를 가진 비용 효율적인 중간 범위 및 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러에 대해 정확성, 응답 시간 및 압력 전환을 기준으로 미세유체 압력 컨트롤러를 비교합니다.
### 사용 중인 압력 컨트롤러는 얼마나 정확하고 안정적인가요?
정확도는 압력 컨트롤러를 선택할 때 고려해야 할 중요한 요소입니다. 높은 정확도를 가진 압력 컨트롤러는 원하는 압력 설정점을 달성하도록 보장합니다. 또한, 많은 응용 분야에서 안정적인 가압 과정에 의존하고 있기 때문에 압력 안정성은 압력 컨트롤러를 선택할 때 고려해야 할 중요한 요소입니다.
750mbar의 압력을 설정하고, 외부에서 교정된 압력 센서로 측정한 후, 10시간 이상 해당 압력을 유지하면서 정확도 및 안정성 분석을 수행합니다.
이러한 접근 방식을 통해 연속적인 운영 조건에서 장치의 작동을 파악하고, 장기간 운영을 통해 드러나는 드리프트나 안정성 문제를 감지할 수 있습니다.
**그림 1: 비용 효율적인, 중간 및 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 이용한 정확도 및 안정성 비교**
그림 1은 비용 효율적인, 중간 및 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러의 정확도와 안정성을 보여줍니다. 평균을 보면 비용 효율적인 컨트롤러와 중간 압력 컨트롤러 모두 목표 값인 750mbar에 비해 2mbar 이상의 정확도 차이를 보이는 것을 볼 수 있습니다. 이는 두 제품 모두 실시간 교정 기능이 없어 목표 값에 비해 변화를 유발하고 결국 소음을 발생시키는 것과 관련이 있습니다(그림 2 참조).
## 프리미엄 시스템을 통한 장기적인 안정성과 정확성 향상
프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 경우 평균값은 749.81mbar +/- 0.082mbar입니다. 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러는 목표값과 비교하여 0.2mbar 미만의 변화를 보이는 가장 정확한 장치로, 정확도 측면에서 가장 성능이 뛰어난 제품입니다.
여기서 안정성에 대한 분석 결과도 확인할 수 있습니다. 비용 효율적인 시스템으로 실험 시작 시 750mbar를 달성하지만 1시간 미만으로 압력이 변화하는 것을 관찰할 수 있으며, 대략 30분 후에는 749mbar로, 몇 시간 후에는 748mbar로 변화합니다. 중간 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 때도 비슷한 압력 변화를 관찰하지만 그 정도는 더 낮습니다(747.5~747mbar).
프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용하면 약 749.8mbar의 압력이 8시간 이상 안정적으로 유지되며 어떠한 변화도 나타나지 않습니다. 또한 필요한 압력 범위 내에서 일관되게 유지되는 높은 안정성으로 인해 장기간에 걸쳐 향상된 안정성과 정확성을 관찰할 수 있습니다.
### 응답 시간: 압력을 얼마나 빠르게 변경하려고 합니까?
응답 시간은 압력 컨트롤러를 선택할 때 고려해야 할 또 다른 중요한 요인입니다. 성능이 우수한 압력 컨트롤러는 압력 변화에 신속하게 반응하고 안정성을 유지할 수 있습니다.
압력 컨트롤러의 응답 시간은 미세유체 시스템 내의 공정이 정밀하고 섬세하기 때문에 중요한 요소입니다. 빠르고 정확한 응답 시간을 가진 압력 컨트롤러는 설정값이나 외부 조건이 변경될 때 시스템이 신속하게 적응하고 최소한의 오버슈트나 진동으로 원하는 압력을 유지할 수 있도록 보장합니다. 실험이나 과정의 무결성을 유지하는 것이 필수적입니다. 압력 조정의 지연이나 부정확함으로 인해 데이터 손상, 비효율적인 유체 제어, 민감한 미세유체 부품의 잠재적 손상을 초래할 수 있습니다.
여기서 두 가지의 응답 시간 테스트, 즉 압력 증가(400mbar -> 500mbar) 및 압력 감소(500mbar -> 400mbar) 테스트를 수행합니다.
응답 시간을 목표 값의 98%에 도달하고 목표 값의 2% 허용 오차 내에 유지되는 시간으로 정의합니다. 비용 효율적인 압력 컨트롤러에서는 이 테스트를 수행할 수 없습니다. 해당 컨트롤러는 아날로그 I/O만으로 제어되며 PID를 포함하고 있지 않기 때문입니다.
*그림 3: 중간 압력 컨트롤러와 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용한 응답 시간*
**응답 시간
400~500mbar**
**응답 시간
500~400mbar**
******중간 압력 컨트롤러****** *0.8 s**0.7 s*******프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러****** *0.8 s**0.1 s*
*표 2: 미세유체 응용을 위한 압력 컨트롤러 비교*
## 프리미엄 유체 컨트롤러를 사용한 더 나은 응답 시간
그림 3은 중간 압력 컨트롤러와 프리미엄 컨트롤러를 사용한 가압 및 감압을 보여줍니다. 중간 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 때, 가압 시 목표 값의 98%에 도달하는 데 걸리는 시간은 0.8초입니다. 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 때도 0.8초입니다. 감압 시 목표 값의 98%에 도달하는 데 걸리는 시간은 0.7초이며, 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 경우 0.1초입니다.
이는 중간 압력 컨트롤러와 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러가 100mbar에서의 전환을 위한 가압 시 유사한 반응 시간을 가지며, 감압의 경우 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러가 약 10배 더 빠르다는 것을 보여줍니다.
또한, 중간 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 때 안정된 단계에 도달한 후에도 약간의 압력 변동과 오버슈트가 발생하는 것을 관찰할 수 있는데, 이는 조절 알고리즘의 성능에서 기인합니다.
또한, 유체 프로토콜을 중단해야 할 때, 감압 시간은 사용된 압력 컨트롤러에 따라 달라질 것입니다. 그림 4는 중간 및 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용하여 500mbar에서 400mbar로 감압하는 데 걸리는 시간을 보여줍니다. 중간 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 때 0.7초, 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 때는 0.1초가 걸리는 것을 확인할 수 있습니다.
*그림 4: 중간 압력 컨트롤러와 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용한 응답 시간*
감압 시간은 미세유체 프로토콜에 큰 영향을 미치는데, 실험이 종료된 후에도 감압 시간 동안 액체가 계속 주입되기 때문입니다. 감압 시간 동안 주입된 귀중한 액체가 낭비되며, 이는 궁극적으로 실험 비용에 영향을 미치게 됩니다. 사용된 시스템 및 관련 유체 저항에 따라 감압 시간이 수십 초 이상 걸릴 수 있습니다!
### 더 부드럽게 할수록 좋음: 제품 알고리즘과 PID는 최종적으로 성능에 영향을 미침
위의 문단에서 언급했듯이, 제품 사양만으로는 충분하지 않습니다. PID와 알고리즘 또한 성능에 영향을 미칩니다. 그림 5는 중간 압력 컨트롤러에서 더 높은 압력으로 전환하는 동안의 압력 곡선을 보여줍니다. 100mbar로 전환할 때 일부 떨림 현상이 관찰되는데, 이는 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러 사용 시에는 나타나지 않습니다(그림 5 참조).
그림 5 경제적인 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러를 사용한 감압 시간 비교
압력 컨트롤러 간 비교 분석을 통해 정확성과 안정성 측면에서 성능에 눈에 띄는 차이를 관찰하였습니다. 비용 효율적인 압력 컨트롤러는 더 큰 변동을 보였으며 평형 상태에 도달하기 위해서 더 긴 시간이 필요했습니다. 또한, 이는 동급 제품에 비해 덜 정밀한 압력 범위 안에서 안정화되었습니다.
반면에, 프리미엄 제품은 훨씬 더 부드럽고 안정적인 전환 프로파일을 나타냈습니다. 원하는 정밀도 수준에 밀접하게 맞춰 효율적이면서도 신속하게 안정성을 달성했습니다.
다양한 조건에서 일관된 압력 제어를 유지하는 탁월한 성능은 프리미엄 제품의 첨단 엔지니어링 및 설계를 부각시킵니다.
정확한 압력 제어가 결과의 정확성과 무결성에 결정적인 영향을 미치는데, 미세유체 응용 분야에서 이러한 특성은 특히 중요합니다.
그림 6 중간 압력 컨트롤러와 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러 간의 압력 변화 비교
### 미세유체 기술에서는 통합을 위한 전문 지식 요구
#### 시장 출시 시간: 압력 컨트롤러가 사용할 준비가 되어 있고 통합이 용이합니까?
간단한 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 때, 일반적으로 즉시 사용 가능한 소프트웨어나 고급 기능이 포함되어 있지 않습니다. 저렴한 중간 범위 모델의 경우, 적절한 데이터 수집 및 해석을 위해 아날로그-디지털 통신 변환기가 필요했습니다.
이 추가적인 단계는 내부 개발의 추가적인 부분과 시장 출시 시간 측면에서 고려되어야 합니다. 아래에는 즉시 사용 가능한 기능을 기준으로 한 미세유체 압력 컨트롤러의 비교를 제시합니다.
- 비용 효율적인 압력 컨트롤러: 시스템을 제어하기 위한 추가적인 DAQ 장치 개발이 필요합니다. 아날로그-디지털 변환기가 필요 없다는 것은 더 발전되고 통합된 설계를 나타내며, 최신 디지털 인터페이스 및 표준과 더 잘 맞습니다.
- 중간 범위 압력 컨트롤러: 추가적인 DAQ(모든 내부 전자 부품이 장치에 통합됨)가 필요하지 않음에도 불구하고, 측정을 시작하기 위한 맞춤형 소프트웨어 인터페이스 개발이 필요합니다.
- 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러: 여러 언어(Python, C++, C#)에서 사용할 수 있는 고급 전용 SDK가 포함되어 사용할 준비가 된 소프트웨어
## 미세유체 환경 마스터: 유량 제어, 밸브 관리 및 자동화를 위한 압력 컨트롤러
### 유량 제어와 압력 제어의 차이점은 무엇입니까?
미세유체학에서 많은 공정에서는 유량의 정밀한 모니터링과 조절이 필요하며, 복잡한 작업 흐름을 자동화하기 위한 밸브의 통합을 통해 재현성과 신뢰도를 보장합니다.
효율적인 유량 모니터링은 정확한 부피 주입을 용이하게 하며, 밸브 자동화는 시료 준비, 멀티플렉싱 또는 세척 공정과 같은 작업에 필수적입니다.
유체 밸브 자동화의 도전과제와 F-OEM 유량 제어 플랫폼이 제공하는 이점에 대한 인사이트를 얻기 위해 기사를 탐색해 보세요.
기존의 압력 컨트롤러와 달리 고급 조절 기능을 달성하기 위해서는 통합하고 제어하는 데 미세유체 유량 센서 및 밸브에서 전자공학, 기계공학, 미세유체학 분야의 전문 지식이 요구됩니다.
모든 미세유체 구성 요소 간의 동기화는 원활한 자동화를 위해 핵심적입니다. 기존 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 경우, 미세유체 전문가가 통합 작업을 해야 하며 이는 잠재적으로 비용이 많이 들고, 시간이 많이 소요되며, 자원에 의존하는 과정이 될 수 있습니다. 이는 제품 출시 시간에 영향을 미치고 최종 시스템의 신뢰성을 저하시킬 수 있습니다.
당사의 프리미엄 미세유체 압력 컨트롤러는 사내에서 개발한 미세유체 유량 센서 및 밸브와의 원활한 인터페이스로 부각됩니다. 이러한 구성 요소를 제어하는 데에는 전용 소프트웨어 및 SDK를 통해 추가 개발이 필요하지 않으며, 출시 시간을 저해하지 않으면서도 효율성과 신뢰성을 향상시키는 간소화된 솔루션을 제공합니다.
- 비용 효율적인 압력 컨트롤러: 개발 필요
- 중간 범위 압력 컨트롤러: 개발 필요
- 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러: Fluigent 유량 센서 및 밸브와 함께 즉시 사용 가능
## 위의 압력 컨트롤러로 달성할 수 있는 일반적인 응용 분야는 무엇입니까?
위에서 볼 수 있듯이, 각 압력 컨트롤러는 매개변수에 따라 성능이 불량/중간, 우수에 이르기까지 다양합니다. 미세유체 응용 분야는 일반적으로 매우 높은 수준의 유체 성능을 요구합니다. 그 결과, 여기서 논의된 모든 압력 컨트롤러가 미세유체 응용 분야의 전체 목록을 다루지는 않습니다.
- 비용 효율적인 압력 컨트롤러: 비용 효율적인 압력 컨트롤러는 정확도나 안정성 면에서 평균적으로 낮은 성능을 보입니다. 또한, PID를 사용할 수 없습니다. 이로 인해 시간에 따라 빠른(몇 초 이내의) 압력 변화 없이 압력이 매우 안정적이지 않아야 하는 응용 분야에서만 제품을 사용할 수 있게 됩니다. 이는 분당 백 밀리리터 이상의 유량을 가진 저정밀 분석 장치에 적합합니다. 일반적인 예시로는 가스 크로마토그래피와 반도체 공정이 있습니다. 미세유체학의 경우, 퀘이크(Quake) 밸브 공정과 같이 밸브를 열고 닫기 위한 압력 주입에서 사용될 수 있습니다.
- 중간 범위 압력 컨트롤러: 중간 압력 컨트롤러는 정확도와 안정성 측면에서 평균 이상에서 훌륭한 성능을 나타냅니다. 덜 까다로운 미세유체 응용 분야에 유용할 수 있는 기본 PID가 제공됩니다. 미세유체 세포 관류 및 배양에 유용하며, 생산이 안정적이어야 하고 유량 변화가 자주 일어나지 않는 액적 미세유체의 경우에도 유용할 수 있습니다. 그러나 복잡한 미세유체 프로토콜이나 시료 시약을 최소한으로 사용해야 하는 과정에는 한계가 있습니다.
- 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러: Fluigent의 프리미엄 압력 컨트롤러는 모든 미세유체 응용 분야의 요구 사항을 충족하기 위해서 개발되었습니다. 그 결과, 정확성, 안정성 및 응답 시간을 포함한 전반적인 성능이 우수합니다. 특허를 받은 조절 알고리즘을 통해 어떤 미세유체 프로토콜에서도 압력을 세밀하게 조절할 수 있으며, 유량 센서 및 밸브 통합이 기본적으로 구현되어 복잡한 미세유체 프로토콜을 수행할 수 있습니다. 디지털 PCR 및 캡슐화 응용을 위한 액적 미세유체부터, 칩 상의 장기 및 세포 배양을 위한 세포 생물학, 세포 분류 및 유세포 분석, 이전 시료 시약을 절약하면서 모든 멀티플렉싱 프로토콜을 자동화해야 하는 고급 형광 현미경 검사에 이르기까지 다양한 용도로 활용할 수 있습니다.
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### [미세유체 응용 분야에서 OEM 시린지 펌프보다 OEM 압력 컨트롤러를 선택해야 하는 5가지 이유 ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 1. 비교할 수 없는 성능을 위한 압력 제어
안정적이고 정밀한 유량과 빠른 안정화 시간을 가진 것은 종종 액적 미세유체학, 약물 스크리닝, 세포 분석 또는 세포생물학 및 현미경 검사를 위한 동적 세포 배양과 같은 미세유체 및 밀리유체 응용 분야에서 필수적입니다.
### 향상된 안정성과 안정화 시간을 위한 압력 제어
안정적이고 정밀한 유량과 빠른 안정화 시간을 가진 것은 종종 액적 미세유체학, 약물 스크리닝, 세포 분석 또는 세포생물학 및 현미경 검사를 위한 동적 세포 배양과 같은 미세유체 및 밀리유체 응용 분야에서 필수적입니다.
미세유체 액적을 생성하는 시스템에서, 빠른 안정화 시간(즉각적인 압력 변화의 특정 비율(예: 95%)에 도달하기까지의 시간으로 정의됨)은 일반적으로 목표 유량에 직접 도달하고, 그 후 그와 관련된 필요한 액적 크기에 도달하는 데 필요합니다. 이는 고가의 시약이나 세포를 포함할 수 있는 생성된 액적을 활용될 수 없는 과도기 단계를 최소화하는 데 도움이 되며, 궁극적으로는 미세유체 프로토콜의 낭비와 비용을 줄입니다. 반면에 안정적인 유량은 균일한 액적 크기를 보장하며, 프로토콜의 장기적인 신뢰성을 확보합니다.
#### a. 안정화 시간: 시스템의 실제 유량은 얼마입니까?
**OEM 시린지 펌프 및 안정화 시간**
산업용 시린지 펌프는 스테퍼 모터에 의해 유도되는 간단한 선형 운동의 원천으로, 이 모터가 피스톤이 구동되는 속도를 제어합니다. 유량은 피스톤의 속도와 단면적으로 직접 계산됩니다. 안정화 시간은 시린지 펌프의 기계적 특성뿐만 아니라 미세유체 시스템의 유체 저항에도 의존합니다. 설정된 유량을 구현하거나 수정할 때 유체 시스템 내의 압력이 증가하여 액체를 밀어내기보다는 시스템을 변형시킵니다.
시스템의 유체 저항과 탄성에 따라 안정화 시간은 밀리초의 1/100에서 몇 분까지 다양합니다. 산업용 시린지 펌프에 유량을 설정할 때 설정된 유량 값이 표시되지만, 실제 유량이나 그 유량에 도달하기까지의 필요 시간에 대한 정보는 제공되지 않습니다. 미세유체 장치에서 실제 유량에 대한 정보 부족은 실험 및 프로토콜 실패의 주된 원인 중 하나입니다.
****OEM 압력 컨트롤러를 통한 가장 빠른 응답 시간****
압력 컨트롤러를 사용하면 액체가 들어있는 저장소나 탱크에 압력을 가할 수 있습니다. 압력 컨트롤러를 사용할 때, 압력이 거의 즉각적으로 저장소에 적용됩니다. 예를 들어, Fluigent 기기에 사용되는 밸브는 응답 시간이 30밀리초 미만으로, 시린지 펌프에 사용되는 모터보다 낮습니다. F-OEM 및 FASTAB 기술과 같은 반응형 시스템은 안정화 시간이 빠릅니다. 아래 그래프는 표준 시린지 펌프와 함께 사용한 Fluigent F-OEM 압력 컨트롤러의 응답 시간을 보여줍니다. 대부분의 유체 시스템에서는 목표 압력이 몇 초 이내에 달성됩니다(주로 압력 소스와 관련된 가스 유량, 가압될 공압 부피에 따라 다름).
***그림 1: 압력 기반 유량 컨트롤러 간 응답 시간***
#### b. 정밀하게 조정된 압력으로 인해 비교할 수 없는 안정성
시린지 펌프의 유동 안정성은 모터가 제공하는 최소한의 기계적 단계에 기인합니다. 피스톤의 증분이 주입된 부피와 상관관계가 있기 때문에 이 최소한의 움직임은 최소한의 주입 부피를 유도합니다. 스테퍼 모터는 외부 요인이 아닌 기술과 관련된 낮은 유량에서 펄스 또는 진동을 유발할 수 있습니다. 그 결과, 시장에 출시된 대부분의 시린지 펌프는 0.35% 이하의 안정성을 달성하기 어렵습니다. 이에 반해, 고급 시린지 펌프는 작은 직경의 저용량 시린지(약 10ml)를 사용함으로써 안정성을 향상시킬 수 있지만, 이는 주입해야 할 액체의 부피와 펌프가 달성할 수 있는 최대 유량에 영향을 미치게 됩니다.
저장소나 탱크를 압력 컨트롤러로 가압할 때, 시료가 미세유체 시스템으로 원활하게 주입됩니다. 이 기술은 일반적으로 솔레노이드 밸브를 사용하여 적용 압력을 매우 정밀하게 조정할 수 있습니다. 유체와 접촉하는 기계적 부품이 없기 때문에 압력 컨트롤러는 가장 정밀한 시린지 펌프로도 달성할 수 없는 무맥동 흐름을 생성할 수 있습니다. Fluigent 컨트롤러를 사용하면 0.1% 미만의 CV로 압력 안정성을 얻을 수 있습니다. 이를 통해 새로운 응용분야에 요구되는 새로운 수준의 안정성을 확보할 수 있습니다.
***그림 2: 압력 안정성을 기반으로 하는 유량 컨트롤러***
#### c. 유량 센서를 사용한 더 높은 액체 유량의 정확도 및 조절 능력: 압력 구동 유량 제어
**빠르고 정확한 유량 모니터링 및 조절을 위한 인라인 유량 센서**
유량을 직접 측정하고자 할 때는 시스템에 액체 유량 센서를 추가할 수 있습니다. 유량 센서는 유체 프로토콜의 정상적인 작동을 보장하고, 유량/부피 모니터링이나 프로토콜 실패의 식별 및 예방에도 유용합니다. 유량 센서는 알고리즘이 적용되어 압력을 통해 유량을 조절하는 “피드백 루프” 시스템을 개발할 수 있도록 압력 컨트롤러를 보완합니다. Fluigent는 특허받은 “자가 학습” 알고리즘을 통한 압력 기반 유량 조절을 제공하여 실험이 진행 중일 때도 시료 부피의 분배와 시료 유량을 조절할 수 있습니다. 아래 그래프는 Fluigent의 압력 기반 유량 제어와 표준 OEM 시린지 펌프의 유량 안정성을 비교합니다. 조절 알고리즘과 유량 센서를 결합하여 < 5%의 유량 안정성을 달성할 수 있으며, 시린지 펌프에서는 약 10%까지의 안정성이 관찰됩니다.
***그림 3: OEM 시린지 펌프(회색)와 OEM 압력 기반 유량 컨트롤러(파란색) 비교***
**유체 라인에 유량 센서 없이 고성능 압력 구동 유량 제어가 필요합니까?
미세유체를 활용하는 생물학 응용 분야가 성장함에 따라, 유체 라인에서 완전히 멸균되고 일회용 환경에 대한 필요성이 점점 더 커지고 있습니다. Fluigent는 **비침습적 유량 센서**를 유체 응용 분야에 전용으로 제공하는 유일한 회사입니다.
Fluigent의 표준 OEM 압력 기반 유량 제어 솔루션은 고정밀 압력 컨트롤러(Fluigent PX 또는 F-OEM)와 비침습적 유량 센서를 포함하여, 유체 경로의 요소나 유체 교정 없이도 탁월한 유량 조절 능력을 제공합니다. NIFS는 비접촉 실시간 유량 모니터링 및 조절을 가능하게 합니다.
이 독특한 시스템으로 인해 Fluigent는 다른 미세유체 압력 구동 유량 제어 공급업체들과 산업용 시린지 펌프 공급업체들보다 앞서 나가고 있습니다.
***그림 4: 시린지 펌프 시스템 대 Fluigent 압력 기반 유량 제어 시스템***
******Fluigent 압력 컨트롤러****** ******OEM 시린지 펌프****** ******정확성****** < 0.1% CV 전체 스케일(FS) ~ 1% ******압력 분해능
(최소 압력 스텝)****** 0.03% FS N/A ****응답 시간**** 압력 컨트롤러: < 30ms N/A ****안정화 시간**** 압력: < 2초
유량: < 5초유체 시스템에 따라 몇 초에서 몇 분 소요 ****출구 압력 범위**** 양의 범위: 0~25mbar, 0~69mbar, 0~345mbar, 0~1000mbar, 0~2000mbar, 0~7000mbar
음의 범위: 0~-25mbar, 0~-69mbar, 0~-345mbar, 0~-800mbar
푸시-풀: -800 ~ +1000mbar N/A ****액체 유량 범위**** 0~10 mL/분 > 200 mL/분****주입량**** 최대 1L < 140mL(최대 시린지 크기로 제한됨) ****유량 모니터링 및 조절**** 유량 센서 사용: < 5% 측정값 실시간 모니터링 없음 ****멸균 환경과의 호환성/오염 위험**** 적합함
멸균 저장소 있음. 액체와 접촉하는 기계 부품 없음
NIFS를 사용하여 유체 라인에 별도의 시스템 없이도 유량 제어 가능 가능함
일회용 플라스틱 시린지 사용 가능하나 성능이 저하됨
유리 시린지: 각 실험마다 멸균/세척 단계 필요 ****장기 프로토콜과의 호환성**** 적합함
안정적인 압력 공급 시린지 저장소로 인한 제한
사용된 시린지 펌프와 시린지는 시간에 따라 불안정성 발생 가능함 ******유지보수****** 필요 없음 시린지 정렬, 씰 유지보수 ## 2. 더 이상 큰 주입량을 위해 안정성을 타협하지 않아도 됩니다. 구현 및 재충전 시간을 절약하세요.
위에서 설명한 바와 같이, 시린지의 부피(더 정확히는 단면적)가 클수록 유량의 안정성은 낮아집니다. 그 결과, 시린지 펌프 사용자는 주입을 위해 안정성과 최소 부피 사이에서 선택해야 하며, 이는 대상 응용 분야에 따라 항상 가능한 것은 아닙니다. 게다가, 미세유체 산업용으로 특화된 대부분의 시린지 펌프는 60mL를 초과하지 않아 완충용액이 필요한 응용 분야에 큰 제약이 될 수 있습니다.
압력 컨트롤러 사용 시 더 큰 용기를 사용할 수 있습니다. Fluigent 압력 시스템을 사용하면 압력으로 인한 우수한 유량 안정성에 영향을 주지 않고 최대 1L 용량의 병을 사용할 수 있습니다. 압력 기반 시스템을 사용한 충전 및 재충전 과정이 간단합니다.
## 3. 미세유체 시스템을 위한 비용 효율적인 솔루션
처음에는 압력 구동 유량 제어 시스템이 압력 소스와 유량 센서(필요한 경우)의 추가로 인해 시스템 전체의 비용을 고려할 때 시린지 펌프 시스템보다 비용이 더 많이 소요되는 것처럼 보일 수 있습니다. 하지만 압력 컨트롤러의 일부 장점과 지속적인 기술 개선은 궁극적으로 시스템의 최종 비용에 다음과 같은 영향을 미칩니다.
- 여러 저장소에 공급하는 한 개의 채널
한 개의 압력 컨트롤러를 사용하여 여러 저장소에 압력을 가하는 것이 가능합니다. 이 작업은 시린지 펌프로는 유량이 균등하게 분배되지 않기 때문에 실현 가능성이 낮습니다.
- 더 나은 반응 시간 덕분에 시약 소비와 낭비 절감
위에서 설명한 바와 같이, 유량이 안정되지 않은 과도기에는 데이터를 이용할 수 없으며, 이 시기에 사용된 시약은 손실됩니다. 이 과도기를 최소화함으로써 시약 소비를 최적화하고 실험 비용을 줄일 수 있습니다.
- 전체 비용을 절감하기 위한 올인원 압력 소스 및 제어
Fluigent가 개발한 최신 기술인 소형 올인원 미세유체 마이크로펌프는 가벼우면서도 컴팩트한 형태(L\*l\*H = 7\*5\*4cm)로 통합된 압력 공급 및 제어(양압 및 음압)를 제공하며, 저렴한 비용으로 독특한 수준의 소형화를 실현하는 비용 효율적인 기술입니다.
## 4. 청소 문제 및 오염으로 인한 위험 감소
고정밀 시린지 펌프 사용 시 플라스틱 시린지의 변형성이 안정성에 영향을 미치기 때문에 일회용이 아닌 유리, 강철, 세라믹 시린지가 필요합니다. 일회용이 아닌 시린지는 일반적으로 멸균 처리되어 배송되지 않습니다. 이는 유체 경로가 반드시 멸균되어야 하는 많은 생물학적 응용 분야에서 한계점입니다. 또한, 재사용 가능한 시린지를 사용할 경우에는 번거로운 청소 과정이 필요하며, 이는 실험 실패로 이어질 수 있는 추가적인 오염 위험을 더욱 증가시킵니다.
압력 컨트롤러 사용 시 기계적 부품이 액체와 접촉하지 않습니다. 필요에 따라 멸균된 표준 일회용 튜브나 저장소를 사용할 수 있습니다. 따라서 OEM 시린지 펌프 대비 압력 컨트롤러를 사용함으로써 오염 위험을 완화시킬 수 있습니다.
## 5. 압력 컨트롤러로 유지보수 감소
액체 처리 구성 요소를 통합한 미세유체 시스템을 개발할 때는 모든 부품의 수명 주기와 함께 시스템의 수명을 연장하기 위해 필요한 유지보수를 고려하는 것이 중요합니다. 시린지 펌프를 사용할 경우, 성능 저하나 프로토콜 실패를 방지하기 위해 시간이 많이 소요되는 유지보수 절차가 필요합니다.
- 정렬 단계: 시린지의 잘못된 정렬 및 설치는 정밀도와 정확도에 모두 영향을 미칩니다. 또한, 과도한 설치력으로 인해 시린지 씰 손상의 원인이 됩니다. 시린지를 교체할 때마다 정렬을 수행해야 합니다.
- 씰링 유지보수: 시간이 지나도 펌프 씰이 적절하게 유지 관리되지 않으면 누출이 발생할 수 있으며 분배 정확도가 떨어질 수 있습니다. 플런저 씰에는 사용 및 유체 노출로 인해 시간이 지남에 따라 마모되는 실리콘 오일 윤활제의 얇은 막이 종종 포함되어 있습니다. 성능 문제나 손상을 방지하기 위해 주기적으로 재윤활이 필요합니다.
압력 컨트롤러를 사용하면 유체와 접촉하지 않아 유지보수가 크게 줄어듭니다. 깨끗한 압력 소스를 확보하는 것만으로도 보통 압력 컨트롤러가 몇 년 동안 제대로 작동하는 데 충분합니다. 산업용 시린지 펌프와 달리, 프로토콜을 시작하기 전에 정렬이나 교정 단계가 필요하지 않습니다. 압력 컨트롤러는 시스템의 수명을 연장시켜 Fluigent 지원에 소요되는 시간을 줄여줍니다.
정확한 액체 제어 및 자동화 분야에서 전문가이자 선두주자인 Fluigent는 생명 과학부터 진단에 이르기까지 제조업체에 혁신적인 OEM 기기와 맞춤형 서비스를 제공합니다.
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### [미세유체OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
**Published:** December 15, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 미세유체OEM: 자동화된액체처리솔루션
본 브로슈어를 다운로드하여 고정밀 유체 제어 기술의 잠재력을 실현하는 방법을 확인해 보세요.
저희는 생명과학부터 진단 분야에 이르기까지 다양한 제조업체에 정밀한 액체 제어 및 자동화 솔루션을 제공하는 미세유체 기술 선도 기업입니다.
[**OEM Fluigent 브로셔**](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/09/fluigent-oem-brochure.pdf)
## 미세유체기능성
+ 추가 기능: 히터, 셰이커, 피펫팅 로봇, 기포 제거기 등
## 액체용압력컨트롤러
산업 시스템에서 유체를 처리하기 위한[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/)최첨단 모듈식 통합형 미세유체 OEM 모듈입니다. 현장에서 입증된 액체 처리 모듈에 대해 알아보세요.
- [
### OEM 미세유체 구성 요소
발견하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/oem-microfluidic-components/)
## 미세유체구성요소
유체 관리를 자동화하고 완벽한 미세유체 시스템을 구축할 수 있는[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/)최첨단 모듈식 통합형 미세유체 OEM 모듈입니다.
- [
### 流体压力控制器
발견하기](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products/pressure-controllers-for-liquids/)
## 완전히통합된시스템개발
### 장치의 비전을 실현하세요
요구 사항에 따라 완벽하게 작동하는 장치를 완벽하게 개발합니다. 당사의 미세유체 OEM 전문 지식과 고유한 첨단 기술 포트폴리오를 활용하여 시장 출시 기간을 단축할 수 있습니다.
[
### 완전 맞춤형 미세유체 장치
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## 귀하의미세유체응용분야강화
액적 미세유체부터 살아있는 세포 영상에 이르기까지, 당사의 전문가들이 귀하의 응용분야에 대한 가치 있는 인사이트를 제공할 것입니다.
미세유체가 산업 공정의 결과, 생산, 수율을 촉진하는 응용분야를 살펴보세요.
“제품의 품질에 깊은 인상을 받았습니다. 특히 Fluigent 팀의 명확하고 개방적인 커뮤니케이션, 매끄러운 관리 스타일, 그리고 훌륭한 R&D 작업을 강조하고 싶습니다.”
## 미세유체 **OEM** 시스템을위한신뢰할수있는파트너
지난 10년 동안 전 세계 기업에 1500개 이상의 미세유체 OEM 모듈과 시스템을 제공했습니다. R&D 팀은 회사의 30% 이상을 차지하며 20개 이상의 특허를 획득했습니다.
## 65
전 세계 OEM/산업 고객 수
## 20
혁신의 선두에 설 수 있도록 한 특허 수
## 15
다양한 완전 통합 OEM 시스템 개발 수
## 1500**+**
제공된 OEM 시스템 및 구성 요소 수
## 10
OEM 실험실 자동화 분야에서의 경력 기간(년)
## 최고품질표준및규정준수 **– ISO 9001**
당사는 제품 및 프로세스의 품질을 지속적으로 개선하여 OEM 미세유체 솔루션의 규정 준수를 보장합니다. 당사는 품질에 대한 약속을 지키기 위해 ISO 9001 인증을 유지하고 있습니다. 또한 여러 외부 감사를 성공적으로 완료했으며 UL 또는 IP65와 같은 추가 인증을 받은 구성 요소와 시스템을 효과적으로 제공합니다.
고객만족을위해최선을다하고있으며고객의요구에맞는최상의솔루션을개발하기위해장기적인지원을제공합니다
자세한 정보 또는 기술 상담
---
### [체학 기술을 위한 고급 솔루션](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 자동 순차 주입 시스템: Aria
Fluigent는 정밀한 세포 관류 또는 타이밍을 고려한 주입 프로토콜에 맞춘 자동 순차 주입 시스템인 Aria를 선보입니다. Aria를 사용하면 사용자가 개인화된 프로토콜에 따라 최대 10가지 다른 용액을 챔버나 미세유체 칩으로 자동 전달할 수 있습니다.
배양된 세포의 장기 영상촬영에서 통제된 환경 조건을 유지하는 것이 매우 중요합니다. Aria는 배양 배지의 지속적인 유체 흐름 주입을 용이하게 하여 세포에 최적의 생리적 조건을 제공합니다. 영양분을 지속적으로 공급하고 pH를 제어하여 이상적인 환경을 조성하는 동시에 세포 파편이 쌓이는 것을 방지합니다.
당사의 다기능 유체 주입 시스템은 세포에 가해지는 전단 응력을 최소화하여 여러 유체 간 원활한 전환을 가능하게 하고 압력 변화에도 불구하고 지속적인 배지 흐름을 보장합니다. 유량 센서를 포함한 추가 구성 요소는 유량을 정밀하게 제어하고 매체 스위치를 원활하게 실행할 수 있도록 보장합니다.
### Aria의 특징
- **최대 10개 용액 전달: Aria는 40µL부터 수백 mL에 이르는 다양한 용량을 장기간에 걸쳐 전달할 수 있어 다목적으로 사용됩니다. Aria의 소프트웨어는 각 용액의 정확한 전달 시간을 포함하여 사용자에게 중요한 정보를 제공합니다. 또한 프로토콜을 원활하게 실행하기 위해 각 저장소에 필요한 최소 용량을 사용자에게 알려줍니다.
- **프로토콜 자동화:** Aria의 사용자 친화적 소프트웨어를 통해 사용자는 몇 번의 클릭만으로 프로토콜을 쉽게 설계할 수 있습니다. 작업자는 주입 프로토콜의 각 단계에 대해 배양 시간, 유량, 분배된 부피와 같은 매개변수를 정의할 수 있습니다. 프로토콜을 기록하여 사용자 간에 쉽게 공유할 수 있습니다.
- **변동성 감소:** Aria는 실험 간 변동성을 약 0.5%로 대폭 줄임으로써, 피펫 사용 시 일반적으로 관찰되는 작업자 내 변동성 5.1% 및 작업자 간 변동성 8.1%에 비해 현저한 개선을 이루었습니다.
- **시료 무결성 유지: 프로토콜 내내 오염 위험 없이 시료를 취급하고 그대로 유지하므로 수작업으로 인한 오염 가능성을 줄일 수 있습니다.
- **영상 연구에 최적화:** Aria는 TTL 신호를 통해 다양한 현미경과 동기화될 수 있습니다. 이 기능은 장치가 TTL 신호를 송수신할 수 있게 하여, 영상촬영 주기를 시작하거나 영상촬영 주기 완료 후 Aria 주입 프로토콜을 재개하게 합니다.
[Aria Datsheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-aria-ko.pdf)
### Aria 2-스위치 대 Aria M-스위치
사용자가 단일 채널이나 다중 채널을 관류하고자 할 때, 다양한 스위치 밸브와 결합된 Aria를 사용할 수 있습니다. 2-스위치를 사용하면 1개의 채널을 관류할 수 있으며, M-스위치를 사용하면 최대 9개 채널까지 관류할 수 있습니다. 액체 유속 범위는 사용된 유량 단위에 따라 3.2µL/min에서 1mL/min까지입니다.
Aria는 수동 피펫팅과 하나의 특정 응용분야 전용으로 현미경, 특정 칩 유형 및 주어진 용액 세트를 통합한 올인원 시스템 사이의 완벽한 절충안입니다. 여러 용액을 공급하는 모든 프로토콜을 자동화할 수 있어 과학자는 시간을 절약할 수 있고 수동 절차에 비해 실험 간 변동성을 줄일 수 있습니다.
### Aria를 사용한 적용 사례
이 연구에서 Radtke 등(1)은 자동화된 순차적 관류 시스템 ARIA의 자동화 기능을 선보였습니다. 이들은 자동화된 다중 항체 라벨링을 위해 광시야 현미경과 원활하게 동기화되는 것을 보여주었습니다. ARIA는 TTL 신호를 송수신함으로써 영상 획득 주기의 시작과 관류 프로토콜의 완료 후 재개를 가능하게 하여 다양성을 보여줍니다.
이 강력한 기법은 반복적인 염색 및 표백 방법을 활용하여 고해상도 영상을 확보하고 65개 이상의 매개변수를 평가할 수 있습니다. IBEX(Iterative Bleaching Extends Multiplexing) 프로토콜로 알려진 이 방법은 건강한 장기, 감염된 장기 또는 종양 미세 환경과 같은 복잡한 조직 내에서 포괄적인 세포 분석 및 공간 검사를 수행하기 위한 신뢰할 수 있고 일관된 방법론을 제공합니다.
그림 2와 3은 인간 조직에서 자동화된 IBEX 방법을 사용하여 얻은 영상의 몇 가지 예를 보여줍니다.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/03/expertise-review-ibex-aria-jejunum-2-1.png)*그림 2: 인간의 빈 창자 영상(6개 주기, 24개 매개변수 중 16개 표시). 스케일 막대: 200µm(왼쪽), 50µm(청록색 상자), 25µm(빨간색 상자)(1).*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/03/expertise-review-ibex-aria-skin-1.png)*그림 3: 인간 피부 영상(5개 주기, 19개 매개변수 중 15개 표시). 스케일 막대: 200µm(왼쪽), 25µm(인셋). 케라틴 10(K10), 케라틴 14(K14)(1).*
또한 ARIA의 자동화는 DNA-paint, OligoSTORM, 용량/반응 연구, 자동화된 다중 면역 형광 실험 또는 동적 펄스 추적 실험과 같은 다양한 응용분야에 이르기까지 다양한 실험 시나리오에 걸쳐 자동화된 솔루션을 제공합니다.
[Aria Datsheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-aria-ko.pdf)
## 살아있는 세포 영상촬영 챔버: Focht 챔버 시스템 2
FCS2는 다양한 현미경 기법과 호환되는 정밀한 온도 및 유량 조절 기능을 갖춘, 정밀한 미세 환경 제어를 위해 설계된 다용도의 즉시 사용 가능한 솔루션을 제공합니다. 이 시스템은 높은 N.A.와 호환되며 균일한 온도 제어가 가능한 미세 유동 셀을 통합하고 있으며, 도립형 현미경에 맞게 설계된 맞춤형 시료 영역을 갖추고 있습니다.
### FCS2 챔버의 특징
- **영상촬영 호환성:** 모든 현미경 모드와 호환이 가능하여 다양한 용도로 사용할 수 있습니다. 특히 고해상도 영상에 매우 적합하여 최적의 성능을 제공합니다.
- **완벽한 유량 제어:** 광학 캐비티 내의 부피를 정밀하게 관리할 수 있습니다. 시스템은 층류 또는 사용자 정의 유량 패턴을 제공합니다. 사용자는 자신의 요구에 따라 유량 채널의 프로파일과 전단 응력을 완전히 제어할 수 있습니다.
- **온도 제어:** 온도 조절은 0.2도의 좁은 범위 내에서 유지됩니다. 이 챔버는 시편 평면을 전체적으로 아우르는 유일한 균일 온도 제어 챔버로 자리매김하고 있습니다. 이 시스템은 매우 효율적인 빠른 온도 안정화 능력을 자랑합니다. 또한, 주변 조건보다 높거나 낮은 온도를 조절하는 기능을 제공합니다.
- **세포 영상촬영:** 이 시스템은 부착 세포, 조직, 또는 부유 세포를 수용하며, 다양한 유형의 시료를 다룰 수 있는 융통성을 제공합니다.
### Aria를 사용한 적용 사례
파스퇴르 연구소의 생체재료 및 미세유체 단위의 소장인 Samy GOBAA와 BMcf의 연구 엔지니어인 Heloïse Mary와 협력하여, 첨단 자동 순차 주입 시스템(ARIA)과 Bioptechs FCS2 영상촬영 챔버를 통합한 새로운 자동화 면역형광(IF) 프로토콜을 소개합니다.
*그림 4: Aria 및 FCS2 챔버를 사용한 자동 면역형광 프로토콜 설정.*
*그림 5: F-액틴 시각화를 위해 팔로이딘-AF488, 내피 세포의 막 마커로 UEA1-렉틴-DyLight, 핵 염색을 위해 DAPI로 염색된 HUVEC 세포.*
당사는 자동화된 면역형광 절차에 ARIA 및 FCS2 영상촬영 챔버를 사용하는 이점을 보여주었습니다(그림 5). 연구 결과, 이 방법은 처리 시간을 획기적으로 단축하여 4시간 30분 만에 절차를 완료할 수 있었습니다. 이는 일반적으로 최대 6시간이 걸리는 기존의 수동 피펫팅 방식에 비해 상당한 시간 절약 효과를 나타냅니다.
이 과정을 자동화함으로써 연구자들은 멀티태스킹을 할 수 있으며, 그들의 시간과 자원을 최적화할 수 있습니다. 또한 이 적응형 프로토콜은 미세유체 칩의 세포나 조직뿐만 아니라 커버슬립의 세포에도 적합하여 세포 및 분자 생물학 연구를 발전시키는 데 유용한 도구로 활용될 수 있습니다.
[Fluigent 체학 전문성에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
## Reference
1. Radtke, A.J., Chu, C.J., Yaniv, Z. et al. IBEX: an iterative immunolabeling and chemical bleaching method for high-content imaging of diverse tissues. Nat Protoc 17, 378–401 (2022). [https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00644-9 ](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00644-9)
---
### [체학응용분야를위한미세유체](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## ****체학이란무엇입니까?****
체학(Omics)은 세포, 조직 또는 유기체 내의 생물학적 거대분자의 포괄적인 분석에 초점을 맞춘 학문을 의미합니다. 이러한 분야는 생물학적 시스템을 종합적으로 이해하기 위해 일반적으로 분자 수준에서 다양한 생물학적 구성 요소를 대규모로 분석하는 작업을 포함합니다. 이러한 포괄적인 분석을 위해서는 생물학적 실험과 생물정보학 접근법을 통한 데이터 분석을 위한 특정 도구를 사용해야 합니다.
다음은 몇 가지 주요 체학 분야입니다.
- **유전체학:** 유기체의 전체 DNA(게놈)를 연구하여 그 구조, 기능, 변이, 유전자 간의 상호작용을 이해합니다.
- **전사체학:** 세포 내의 RNA 분자의 종류, 양, 유전자 발현 패턴의 변화 등을 조사합니다.
- **단백질체학:** 세포 내의 전체 단백질 집합을 연구하여 기능, 구조, 변형, 상호 작용, 풍부함을 조사합니다.
- **대사체학:** 세포 대사에 관여하는 저분자 또는 대사산물의 전체 집합을 분석하여 대사 경로와 생리적 변화에 대한 인사이트를 제공합니다.
- **후성유전체학:** DNA 메틸화 및 히스톤 변형과 같이 DNA 서열 외부의 요인으로 인한 유전자 발현의 변형과 변화를 탐구합니다.
- **메타게놈학:** 환경 샘플에서 직접 채취한 유전 물질에 초점을 맞춰 미생물 군집과 그 유전적 다양성에 대한 인사이트를 제공합니다.
*그림 1: “체학 혁명” – 시스템 과학의 발전과 인간 질병 진단 및 치료를 위해 유전체학, 전사체학, 단백질체학, 대사체학, 플럭소믹스를 결합한 통합적인 “체학” 접근법(1).*
체학 분석 방법은 생명과학 분야의 연구를 근본적으로 변화시키고 있습니다. 세포 집단 내의 평균 상태를 평가하는 것이 아니라 개별 세포의 게놈, 전사체 또는 단백질체를 평가할 수 있는 능력은 암 생물학, 신경과학, 신경 줄기세포 치료제 등 다양한 분야에서 중요한 도약을 의미합니다.
## ****체학분야에서사용되는주요기법****
이러한 체학 분야에서는 대규모 데이터 세트를 생성하기 위해 첨단 기법과 처리량이 많은 기법을 사용합니다. 연구자들은 이러한 데이터 세트를 통합하고 분석함으로써 복잡한 생물학적 과정과 질병 메커니즘을 이해하고, 바이오마커를 식별하며, 개인 맞춤형 의약품과 표적 치료법을 개발하는 길을 열 수 있습니다.
체학 기법은 널리 사용되고 있으며, 탐구하는 특정 체학 분야에 따라 다릅니다.
- **PCR(중합효소연쇄반응):** 유전체학에서 특정 DNA 서열을 증폭시켜 분석 및 식별을 가능하게 하는 기법입니다.
- **차세대염기서열분석(NGS):** 유전체학 및 전사체학에서 DNA와 RNA의 염기서열을 분석하여 유전체, 유전자 발현, 돌연변이, 변이를 대규모로 분석할 수 있도록 하는 데 사용됩니다.
- **질량분석법(MS):** 단백질체학 및 대사체학에서 시료 내의 단백질 또는 대사산물을 식별하고 정량화하여 구조, 변형, 상호 작용, 농도에 대한 인사이트를 제공하는 데 사용됩니다.
- **영상촬영기법:** 형광 현미경, 전자 현미경, 영상 질량 분석법 등 세포나 조직 내의 분자 구조나 분포를 시각화하기 위해 다양한 분야에 적용됩니다.
- **마이크로어레이:** 유전체학 및 전사체학에서 수천 개의 유전자 또는 RNA의 발현 수준을 동시에 분석하는 데 사용되며, 높은 처리량의 스크리닝과 유전자 발현 패턴의 비교를 가능하게 합니다.
- **크로마토그래피:** 대사체학에서 대사체의 복잡한 혼합물을 화학적 특성에 따라 분리하고 분석하여 식별 및 정량화를 지원하는 데 사용됩니다.
- **생물정보학도구**: 체학 기법으로 생성된 방대한 양의 데이터를 처리, 분석, 해석하는 데 필수적인 도구로 계산 분석, 통계 모델링, 데이터 통합이 포함됩니다.
*그림 2: 미세소관 관련 단백질 2(녹색)와 핵(파란색)을 염색한 신경 세포의 면역 형광. 영상은 10배율의 Nikon 공초점 현미경으로 획득했습니다.*
특히 이러한 기법은 지속적으로 진화하고 첨단 기법과 결합하여 생물학적 시스템을 포괄적으로 이해하고 생명과학 분야의 혁신을 주도하는 데 기여하고 있습니다.
## **정밀한유체처리및체학분야에대한 Fluigent의기여**
체학 분야의 혁명은 일반적으로 세포를 액적, 마이크로채널 또는 마이크로웰로 분리한 후 원하는 체학 분석을 수행하는 미세유체 기반 기법에 크게 기인합니다.
정밀한 유체 처리는 DNA, RNA, 단백질, 대사 산물과 관련된 다양한 분석 프로세스의 기본입니다. 이는 시료의 정확한 피펫팅, 희석, 혼합이 필요한 시료 준비와 같은 단계에서 매우 중요합니다. 자동화와 정밀한 유체 처리를 결합하면 유전체학, 전사체학, 단백질체학에 사용되는 고처리량 스크리닝이 용이해져 대량의 시료를 효율적으로 처리할 수 있습니다.
전반적으로 시료 준비, 분리, 분석에서 정확성과 재현성을 보장하는 것은 신뢰할 수 있는 데이터를 생성하는 데 매우 중요하며 분자 수준에서 생물학적 시스템을 이해하는 데 크게 기여합니다.
Fluigent에서는 특히 체학 기술이라는 역동적인 분야에서 이 분야를 발전시키기 위한 다양한 제품을 제공함으로써 과학의 지평을 넓힌다는 핵심 사명을 추구하고 있습니다.
[여기에서 당사의 제품들을 살펴보세요. ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics/)
## References
1. Nielsen J, Oliver S. The next wave in metabolome analysis. Trends Biotechnol. 2005;23:544-6. Medline:16154652 doi:10.1016/j. tibtech.2005.08.005
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### [장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Flow-EZ 압력 유량 컨트롤러
Flow EZ는 정밀 유체 처리 분야에서 혁신적인 솔루션을 제시합니다. 원활한 통합과 정밀한 제어를 위해 설계된 이 압력 구동식 유량 컨트롤러는 다양한 애플리케이션, 특히 세포 배양 및 장기 온칩 응용분야를 위한 유체 관리에서 비교할 수 없는 다용도성과 신뢰성을 제공합니다. 사용자 친화적인 인터페이스와 컴팩트한 디자인을 갖춘 Flow EZ는 실험을 간소화하여 연구자가 탁월한 정확도로 유속과 압력을 손쉽게 조작할 수 있도록 해줍니다. 이 장비는 정밀한 유체 제어를 달성하고 세포 생물학 및 제약 연구와 같은 분야의 다양한 실험을 촉진하는 데 필수적인 도구입니다.
### FlowEZ의 특징
- **최대 12개 모듈까지 확장 가능:** 작업 흐름이 확장됨에 따라 Flow EZ™ 시스템은 비교할 수 없는 확장성을 제공하여 최대 12개 모듈까지 무리 없이 통합할 수 있습니다. 각 미세유체 유량 조절기는 독립적인 전용 압력 채널로 작동하여 실험에서 최적의 제어와 유연성을 보장합니다.
- **압력 및 진공 제어:** Flow EZ™ 모듈 제품군을 사용하면 정밀한 압력 및 진공 조절이 쉬워집니다. -800mbar에서 7bar까지의 압력을 정밀하게 조정하여 실험을 위한 최적의 조건을 보장합니다.
- **로컬 수동 제어:** PC에 연결하지 않고도 명령을 내릴 수 있습니다. Flow EZ™ 하드웨어 인터페이스를 사용하면 로컬 제어가 가능하므로 모듈을 통해 직접 설정을 조작할 수 있습니다.
- **정밀한 유체 공급:** FLOW UNIT이 장착된 시스템은 유량을 정밀하게 제어하고 용량을 정확하게 분배할 수 있어 실험의 요구 사항에 맞는 동적 범위를 제공합니다.
- **적응형 저장소 옵션:** Flow EZ™는 2mL부터 1L까지 다양한 실험실 병 크기의 저장소를 수용합니다. 잦은 리필의 번거로움 없이 장시간 안정적으로 유량이 유지되므로 며칠 동안 실험을 중단 없이 진행할 수 있습니다.
### FlowEZ를 사용한 적용 사례
MIT의 Roger D. Kamm 및 그의 팀(1)은 인간의 혈액-뇌 장벽(BBB)을 시뮬레이션하는 고급 미세유체 모델을 개발하였으며, 이는 Fluigent의 Flow-EZ 압력 컨트롤러와 통합되어 있습니다. 이 설정을 통해 혈관 투과성을 정량적으로 분석할 수 있습니다. Nature Protocols에 소개된 이들의 미세유체 장치는 혁신적인 인간 BBB 모델로 자리매김하고 있습니다. 이 장치는 포괄적인 연구에 필수적인 혈관 형태, 적절한 세포 조직, 수송 능력, 관련 유전자/단백질 발현 프로파일을 모방합니다.
Nat Protoc 17, 95–128 (2022). [https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w "https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w")
*그림 BBB MVN에서의 세포 접착VE cadherin 및 밀착ZO 1 접합 단백질에 대한 면역형광 염색1*
## 자동화된 장기 온칩 플랫폼
Fluigent의 자동화된 장기 온칩 플랫폼인 Omi는 장기 온칩 기술 분야에 가장 최근에 추가된 제품입니다. 이 플랫폼은 과학자와 연구자의 연구 프로세스를 간소화하고 개선할 수 있도록 지원합니다.
Omi는 다양한 매개변수를 자동으로 제어함으로써 연구자들이 복잡한 생리 환경을 정확히 모방할 수 있도록 권한을 부여합니다. 사용자 친화적인 인터페이스와 정밀한 유체 제어 기능을 갖춘 이 플랫폼은 세포 상호작용, 질병 모델링, 약물 테스트 등에 대한 심층적인 연구를 가능하게 합니다.
모듈식 설계와 높은 적응성을 갖춘 이 플랫폼은 다양한 장기 온칩을 번거로움 없이 재현할 수 있도록 지원하여 유연성과 확장성을 제공합니다. 실험적 워크플로우를 최적화하기 위해 설계된 이 기술은 효율적이고 재현 가능한 결과를 보장합니다. 복잡한 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 프로토콜 생성을 간소화하는 방식으로 장기적인 유체 재순환, 주입, 샘플링이 가능합니다.
### 자동화된 장기 온칩 플랫폼 Omi의 특징
- **다용도성:** Omi는 관류, 재순환, 주입, 샘플링을 포함한 맞춤형 프로토콜을 정확하고 쉽게 제공합니다. 또한 포함된 어댑터 덕분에 모든 종류의 미세유체 칩에 적합합니다.
- **컴팩트하고 휴대성이 뛰어남:** Omi는 인큐베이터와 현미경 아래에 잘 맞습니다. 흐름을 계속 유지하면서 인큐베이터, 후드, 현미경 사이의 쉬운 전환이 가능합니다.
- **원격 제어:** WIFI 연결 및 iOS/Android Omi 응용분야를 통해 프로토콜을 설정하고 모니터링할 수 있어 궁극의 편의성과 제어를 제공합니다.
- **자율성:** 2시간 배터리 수명을 통해 인큐베이터에서 영상촬영 시스템으로의 원활한 전환을 가능하게 하여 끊김없는 실험 및 분석을 돕습니다.
- **데이터 저장:** 클라우드에서 이루어져 접근성이 더욱 용이합니다.
[Omi Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-omi-ko.pdf)
## 고처리량 세포 관류 팩
Fluigent가 제공하는 고처리량 연구용 장기 온칩 관류 패키지는 생물의학 연구 분야에서 중요한 진보를 나타냅니다. 이 패키지는 다중화 및 고처리량 실험을 개발함으로써 장기 온칩 연구를 한 단계 더 발전시키기 위해 설계되었습니다. 여러 장기 온칩 모델에 대한 동시 관류 제어가 가능합니다.
사용자 친화적인 인터페이스를 특징으로 하여, 다양한 실험에 걸쳐 유량, 압력, 시료 수집을 정밀하게 조작할 수 있으며, 최적의 칩 관류를 보장합니다.
이 팩에는 Fluigent의 MFCS-EX 미세유체 유량 컨트롤러, 양방향 유량 유닛 센서, BeOnChip 미세유체 칩, 인큐베이터 호환 저장소 홀더 시스템이 포함되어 있습니다.
### 고처리량 세포 관류 팩의 특징
- **안정적이고 복잡한 흐름 패턴:** 세포 관류 팩을 사용하면 대동맥 압력 변동과 같은 복잡한 흐름 패턴을 효과적으로 복제하여 탁월한 반응성을 달성할 수 있습니다. 이러한 정밀한 제어는 일관되고 재현 가능한 실험 환경을 보장하여 실험 변수를 크게 줄입니다.
- **프로토콜 자동화 및 사용자 친화적인 인터페이스:** 매개변수를 최적화한 후 프로토콜을 자동화하는 것은 시간 효율성, 오염 감소, 변동성 최소화를 위한 핵심 단계입니다. Fluigent 유량 컨트롤러는 사용자 친화적인 소프트웨어(OxyGEN)를 사용하여 프로토콜을 원활하게 조립하고 자동화할 수 있는 기능을 제공하며, 모든 프로토콜, 밸브 또는 압력 설정의 자동화를 가능하게 합니다.
- **다용도 및 맞춤 설정 가능:** 이 설정은 모든 유형의 미세유체 칩 및 모든 종류의 응용분야에 사용할 수 있습니다. 세포 관류 패키지의 모듈성은 연구자들이 그들의 독특한 연구 질문에 맞춤화된 실험을 설계할 수 있게 해줍니다.
### 플랫폼을 이용한 적용 사례
이 설정을 통해 보다 현실적인 생리적 맥락에서 잠재적인 약물 후보를 평가할 수 있습니다. 높은 처리량으로 여러 약물 화합물을 동시에 스크리닝할 수 있어 신약 개발 일정을 단축하고 비용을 절감할 수 있습니다.
이 적용 사례에서 Chakrabarty 등(2)은 환자의 치료 반응을 평가하기 위해 새로운 미세유체 암 온칩 플랫폼을 개발했습니다. 이 플랫폼은 종양 조직 조각의 성장 조건을 제어하여 유방암 및 전립선 종양 모델의 치료 결과를 정확하게 예측할 수 있습니다. 놀랍게도 조직 품질에 영향을 주지 않으면서 배양 기간을 최대 14일까지 연장할 수 있어 장시간 실험을 위한 견고함을 보여주었습니다.
*그림; 조직 슬라이스를 향한 확산과 관류를 보여주는 암 온칩의 단면도. CoC 플랫폼은 전체 배양 기간 동안 Fluigent의 고처리량 세포 관류 팩에 연결됩니다(2).*
## 세포 배양용 미세유체 칩 및 장기 온칩 모델
미세유체는 세포 미세환경을 정밀하게 제어하여 세포가 기계적 및 생화학적 신호를 매우 정밀하게 수신할 수 있도록 한다는 점에서 두드러집니다. 장기 온칩은 인간 장기 기능을 지배하는 분자 및 세포 역학을 조사하는 데 이상적인 환경을 조성하고, 통제된 체외 환경에서 잠재적인 치료 표적 발견을 촉진합니다.
Fluigent는 세포 배양, 장기 온칩, 화학성 분석 등과 같은 다양한 응용분야에 특화된 광범위한 미세유체 칩을 제공합니다. 이들은 현미경용 표준 흐름 세포부터 3D 세포 배양 장치에 이르기까지 다양합니다.
- Be-flow: 2D 및 3D 세포 배양용
- Be-doubleFlow: 이는 다공성 막을 통해 연결된 두 개의 관류 가능한 채널로 구성됩니다.
- Be-gradient 배리어 프리: 3D 세포 배양에 전기화학 구배를 적용하기 위해 설계되었습니다.
- Be-transFlow: 다공성 막을 통해 배양 웰과 미세유체 채널을 연결하여 복잡한 배양 구성을 연구할 수 있습니다. 공기 액체 인터페이스(ALI) 배양, 내피/상피 장벽, 누화 연구를 위한 최적의 장치입니다.
- Focht 챔버 시스템 2(FCS2®): 이는 폐쇄형 시스템으로서 살아있는 세포를 미세하게 관찰할 수 있는 챔버입니다. 균일한 온도 제어와 사용자가 정의할 수 있는 관류 능력을 갖추고 있으며, 모든 현미경 모드와 완벽하게 호환됩니다.
[장기 온칩 응용분야를 위한 미세유체 기술](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/)
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### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## References
1. Nat Protoc 17, 95–128 (2022).
2. Chakrabarty S, Quiros-Solano WF, Kuijten MMP, Haspels B, Mallya S, Lo CSY, Othman A, Silvestri C, van de Stolpe A, Gaio N, Odijk H, van de Ven M, de Ridder CMA, van Weerden WM, Jonkers J, Dekker R, Taneja N, Kanaar R, van Gent DC. A Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform Predicts Drug Response Using Organotypic Tumor Slice Culture. Cancer Res. 2022 Feb 1;82(3):510-520. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-21-0799. Epub 2021 Dec 6. PMID: 34872965; PMCID: PMC9397621.
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### [장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 장기온칩이란무엇인가요?
장기 온칩(OOC) 기술(그림 1)은 미세유체 칩 내에서 세포(2D 또는 3D) 또는 조직 부분을 사용하여 인간 장기 수준의 기능이나 질병을 복제하는 것을 포함합니다. 미세유체 기술은 세포 환경을 정밀하게 제어하여, 세포에게 더욱 정확한 기계적 및 생화학적 신호를 제공합니다(1). 소량의 유체를 조작함으로써 이러한 모델들이 확장 가능하고 역동적인 세포 상호작용을 용이하게 합니다. 미세유체 기술과 OOC 기술을 결합함으로써 인간 장기 기능을 재현하고 인간 생리학 및 질병을 연구할 수 있습니다.
미세유체 칩 설계의 최근 발전은 길이 척도, 농도 구배, 유체 유도 기계적 힘과 같은 생리적 조건을 모방하기 위해 기하학적 형상과 구조를 활용합니다. 이러한 생체모방 플랫폼은 전통적인 조직 배양 모델의 많은 한계를 극복합니다.
***그림 1: 살아있는 장기에서 장기 온칩까지(1).***
## 장기온칩기술의응용분야
### 치료개발
장기 온칩 모델은 혁신적인 엔지니어링 방법과 재료를 통해 약물 스크리닝 및 개발에서 뛰어난 유연성을 제공합니다. 인간 유도 만능 줄기 세포(hiPSC)를 사용하여 개인 맞춤형 장기 모델을 만드는 연구에서 중요한 추세가 나타나고 있습니다. 이 모델들은 다공성 막을 사용하여 배양 웰을 미세유체 채널과 연결함으로써 복잡한 배양 설정 탐색을 용이하게 합니다. 이 구성은 공기-액체 인터페이스(ALI) 배양, 내피/상피 장벽, 그리고 세포 간 커뮤니케이션을 연구하는 데 이상적인 도구로 자리 잡고 있습니다.
### 신약개발
체외 장기 온칩 모델의 발전은 새로운 약물 후보물질에 대한 인간 반응 예측에 있어 유망합니다. 이러한 OOC 모델은 잠재적 약물로 인한 인체 독성을 정밀하게 예측하고 세부적으로 조사할 수 있는 길을 열어줍니다. 또한 관찰된 독성 효과에 대응하기 위한 새로운 치료 전략을 모색하는 데도 도움이 됩니다. 신약 개발 과정에서 이러한 모델에서 얻은 인사이트는 선도 화합물의 조기 식별, 수정 및 최적화를 지원하여 임상시험에서 성공 가능성이 높은 안전한 약물의 개발을 촉진합니다.
### 개인맞춤형의약품
장기 온칩 모델은 잠재적인 약물 관련 인간 독성을 정확하게 예측하고 조사하는 데 귀중한 자원입니다. 이를 통해 다양한 화학물질이 환자별 인체 조직에 미치는 영향을 심층적으로 평가할 수 있습니다. 또한 이러한 화합물과 관련하여 관찰된 유해한 영향에 대응할 수 있는 새로운 치료 방법을 모색할 수 있는 길을 열어줍니다. 신약 개발 여정에서 이러한 모델에서 얻은 인사이트는 조기 식별에 도움이 될 뿐만 아니라 선도 화합물의 수정 및 최적화를 가능하게 합니다. 궁극적으로 이러한 접근 방식은 더 안전한 약물의 개발을 촉진하여 엄격한 임상시험에서 성공 가능성을 높입니다.
## 장기온칩응용분야를위한정밀유체조작
정확한 유체 처리는 생리적 조건의 정확한 시뮬레이션을 보장하고 다양한 실험 설정을 가능하게 하는 장기 온칩 응용분야의 핵심 요소입니다. OOC 응용분야에서 정밀한 유체 조작을 달성하기 위해, 마이크로 펌프, 밸브, 미세유체 채널과 같은 미세유체 구성 요소를 사용합니다. 이러한 시스템을 통해 연구자들은 유량, 구배, 유체 구성의 동적 변화를 제어할 수 있어 칩에서 장기와 조직을 연구할 때 보다 생리적으로 관련성이 높은 환경을 제공할 수 있습니다.
### OOC 모델에서 정밀한 유체 조작이 왜 중요한가요?
#### 생리적 조건 모방
장기 온칩 장치는 인간 장기의 동적인 미세환경을 정확히 복제하기 위해 유체 흐름에 대한 정밀한 제어가 필요합니다. 이러한 제어를 통해 세포가 인체와 유사한 유체 전단 응력과 구배를 경험할 수 있습니다.
#### 세포 상호작용 연구 및 조직공학
정확한 유체 조작을 통해 질병과 약물 반응을 이해하는 데 필수적인 내피-상피 상호작용이나 혈뇌 장벽과 같은 세포 상호작용 연구가 가능합니다. 또한 칩 내에서 영양소나 신호 분자의 구배를 만들어내어, 공학적으로 조성된 조직의 성장과 성숙을 촉진하는 데 있어 중요합니다.
#### 약물 테스트 및 개발
적절한 유체 처리는 특정 농도와 비율로 약물이나 화합물을 전달함으로써, 정밀한 약물 테스트와 효과 및 독성 검사를 가능하게 합니다.
#### 자동화 및 대량 처리 스크리닝
정확한 유체 조작 시스템은 자동화될 수 있으며, 이를 통해 대량 처리 실험 및 화합물이나 조건의 스크리닝이 가능해집니다.
### OOC 모델 예시
### 폐 온칩 – 최초의 OoC
혁신적인 인간 폐 온칩(그림 2)은 세포 또는 조직 기능에 주로 초점을 맞춘 이전 모델을 뛰어넘어 통합된 생리적 및 병리 생리학적 반응을 복제함으로써 장기 온칩(OoC) 기술을 재정의했습니다. 이 선구적인 장기 모델은 미세 다공성 막으로 분리된 두 개의 병렬 마이크로채널(하나는 인간 폐 상피 세포로, 다른 하나는 인간 내피 세포로 구성)을 갖추고 있습니다.
세포 융합이 이루어지면 상피 구획에 공기가 유입되어 공기-액체 인터페이스가 생성되어 폐포의 공기 공간 내벽을 모방합니다. 이러한 구획화된 마이크로 디바이스 설계를 통해 상피와 내피에 대한 유체 흐름, 세포 전달, 영양분 분배를 독립적으로 정밀하게 조작할 수 있습니다.
그림 2: 생물학적으로 영감을 받은 인간 호흡 폐 칩 마이크로 디바이스 설계(2).
#### 장 온칩
소장과 대장 모두에 대해 기저 내피가 있거나 없는 장 상피 세포를 활용하는 몇 가지 혁신적인 장기 온칩(OoC) 기술 모델이 개발되었습니다. 이 모델들은 다양한 질병을 재현하고 약물 대사 및 독성을 연구하는 두 가지 목적을 가지고 있습니다.
소장 온칩에서 동적 유체 흐름은 융모 형성과 잔 세포 생성을 촉진하는 핵심 요소로 확인되었으며, 대장 칩에서 보호 점액층 형성을 촉진하는 것으로도 밝혀졌습니다. 또한 최적의 조직 분화를 위해서는 연동 운동과 유사한 기계적 움직임을 모방하는 것이 중요합니다. 예를 들어, 대장 온칩 모델에서 주기적인 기계적 스트레칭과 유체 흐름 개선은 이질 박테리아를 예로 들어 박테리아 성장을 지원했습니다.
#### 종양 온칩
종양 온칩 모델은 종양학 연구에서 강력한 도구로 빠르게 부상하고 있습니다. 이러한 혁신적인 시스템은 생화학적 구배, 틈새 인자, 복잡한 세포 상호 작용, 종양과 기질 세포로 구성된 복잡한 조직 구조 등 종양 미세환경(TME)의 중요한 요소를 효과적으로 복제합니다(3). 종양 온칩 설계는 조직 간 인터페이스를 재창조하는 것을 목표로 하며, 암의 침입과 전이 동안 복잡한 상호작용을 복제하는 데 있어 핵심적입니다. 예를 들어, 대사 구배에 대한 세포 반응을 조사하는 등 TME를 조작하고 종양 세포의 행동을 탐구하기 위해 수많은 모델이 고안되었습니다. *생체 내* 저산소 환경에서 종양 세포의 대사와 약물 내성을 이해하는 것도 TOC 모델 사용의 관심을 보여주는 또 다른 예입니다. 이 혁신적인 플랫폼은 종양 행동의 중요한 측면을 밝히고 관련 과제를 극복하기 위한 전략을 고안할 수 있는 가능성을 제공합니다.
## OOC 분야에대한 Fluigent의기여
Fluigent의 사명은 특히 역동적인 장기 온칩 기술 분야에서 과학적 진보를 촉진하는 데 있습니다. 선두에 서서 연구를 발전시킬 수 있는 새로운 방법을 지속적으로 모색하고 과학적 탐구의 경계를 재정의하는 혁신적인 솔루션을 개척하기 위해 노력하고 있습니다.
또한 장기 온칩 환경을 혁신하는 발전을 주도하기 위해 노력하고 있습니다. 연구자들이 생물학적 시스템을 더욱 정밀하고 효율적으로 탐구할 수 있도록 지원하는 혁신적인 솔루션을 소싱하고 제공하는 데 전념하고 있습니다.
[장기 온칩 분야용 제품 살펴보기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/)
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### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
## References
- Wu, Q.; Liu, J.; Wang, X.; Feng, L.; Wu, J.; Zhu, X.; Wen, W.; Gong, X. Organ-on-a-chip: Recent breakthroughs and prospects. Biomed. Eng. Online 2020, 19, 9.
- Huh, D. et al. Reconstituting Organ-Level Lung Functions on a Chip. Science (1979) 328, 1662– 1668 (2010).
- Imparato, G., Urciuolo, F. & Netti, P. A. Organ on Chip Technology to Model Cancer Growth and Metastasis. Bioengineering 9, 28 (2022)
---
### [액적 생산을 위한 고급 솔루션](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 액적 플랫폼
### FACS용 캡슐화 플랫폼
Secoya가 Fluigent의 유량 제어 장비 및 Secoya의 유화(Emulsion) 기술을 사용하여 개발 및 생산한 **FACS(Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting)용 세포 캡슐화 플랫폼**은 **복잡하고 개별적인 세포를** 일관성이 높은 이중 유화액에 고속으로 캡슐화하기 위한 완전한 시스템으로, 후속 분석을 위해 충분히 작은 액적(<90µm)에서 사용됩니다.
[FACS용 캡슐화 플랫폼 Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-platform-for-facs-ko.pdf)
**이 빠르고 간편한 시스템은 수용성 코어**(예: 배지, PBS) **및 오일 쉘**(예: HFE 7500) **이중 유화액에서 세포를 캡슐화하는 것을 허용하여** 생화학 및 세포 실험에 유용한 도구로 작용합니다. 이 플랫폼은 각 세포를 마이크로 반응기 내에서 분리하여 그 특성을 강조하고 측정 가능한 수준으로 신호를 집중시켜 의미 있는 생물학적인 데이터를 달성할 수 있도록 합니다.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/cell-encapsulation-set-up-ko.png)**표준 세포 캡슐화 플랫폼.**
**유세포 분석을 위한 세포 캡슐화 플랫폼의 특징:**
- **Fluigent의 정밀도와 유연성**: Fluigent의 압력 기반 유량 컨트롤러와 Raydrop을 사용하여 견고하고 고도로 단분산된 유화액을 생산하면서 액적의 크기와 쉘 두께를 정확하게 제어할 수 있습니다.
- **바로 시작 가능한 유화액 생산:** 이 시스템은 설정 시간이 거의 없이 이중 유화액을 생성할 수 있는 완비된 장비이며, 장착 및 제어가 가능합니다.
- **완벽하고 사용이 간편한 엔지니어링 시스템**: 당사의 체계적인 시스템은 더 나은 성능을 위해 간단한 프라이밍 및 청소 과정이 필요합니다. 이 시스템에는 고주파에서 액적을 최적화하여 시각화하기 위한 전용 광학 장비가 포함되어 있습니다.
- **세포 분석을 위해 혁신적이고 널리 사용되는 방법:** 이 시스템은 고처리량 스크리닝 및 FACS 실험과 호환되는 이중 유화액 액적 내 단일 세포 캡슐화를 쉽게 생성할 수 있는 플랫폼입니다.
**FACS용 캡슐화 플랫폼을 통해 다음을 수행할 수 있습니다.**
- **교차 오염의 위험을 제거**
- **액적 내부에서 시약을 빠르고 효율적으로 혼합**
- **채취하기 어려운 세포로 작업 가능**
### 적용 예시
**캡슐화 플랫폼은 FACS 분류 기술과 함께 사용되어 형광성 대장균을 캡슐화하는 작은 액적을 분리했습니다.\[1\]** 단백질 또는 효소 분비 기반의 생물학적 분석에서 형광 신호의 분산을 방지하고 단일 세포 분석을 수행하기 위해서 박테리아를 작은 액적에 가둬야 합니다.
**수중유중수 이중 유화액**은 **효율적인 박테리아 성장을 위한 미생물반응기** 역할을 담당하며, 오일 중간상이 형광 누출을 방지하여 세포 활동 및 신호의 격리도 효과적으로 수행합니다.
**플랫폼으로 생성된 W/O/W 액적은 좋은 단분산성을 보였고** 낮은 생물학적 시료 소모로 짧은 시간 내에 대량의 액적을 생성하는 플랫폼 능력(30분 안에 200mL의 이중 유화액 생산)이 이 용도로 유용했습니다.
 **형광성 대장균을 포함하는 이중 유화액의 (A) BF + GFP 현미경 영상 스택에 대한 미세 관찰 및 분석, (B) 코어 영역 찾기, (C) 표준 편차를 포함한 평균 코어 직경 값; 스케일바 = 20µm**
**정렬 영역(B)에 대한 확대를 포함하여 정렬(A)을 위해 사용되는 FACS 기계, (C) 세포 계측 분석 및 게이팅**
[FACS용 캡슐화 플랫폼 Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-platform-for-facs-ko.pdf)
---
### 미세유체 복합 유화액 플랫폼
**모든 종류의 유화액과 액적에 대해 사용할 준비가 된 플랫폼**
**이 복합 유화액 생산 플랫폼은 단일 유화액 및 이중 유화액과 같은 유화 공정을 수행하기 위한 빠르고 간편한 스크리닝 시스템입니다**. 이 통합되고 조직적이고, 사용할 준비가 된 플랫폼을 통해서 시간을 절약하고 빠르게 단분산 복합 유화액을 생산할 수 있습니다.
**미세유체 복합 유화액 플랫폼**
**복합 유화액 플랫폼의 특징:**
- **바로 시작 가능한 유화액 생산:** 이 시스템은 복합 유화액, 미세입자 및 미세캡슐 생산 공정을 구축하기 위한 장비가 완비되어 제어되는 도구입니다.
- **엔지니어링된 시스템:** 체계화된 시스템으로 취급이 간소화되었습니다.
- 높은 견고함을 달성하기 위한 간편한 프라이밍 및 청소 과정
- **최적화된 액적 시각화를 위한 전용 고주파 광학 장치**, 기포 문제 해결을 위한 홀더
- **Fluigent 정밀도**: Fluigent의 압력 기반 흐름 컨트롤러와 Raydrop을 사용하여 견고하면서 고도로 단분산된 유화액을 생산할 수 있습니다.
### 적용 예시
**단일 액적 내 다중 유화액의 캡슐화**
단일 쉘 내에 다중 유화액을 캡슐화하는 것은 복합 유화액 생산 플랫폼에서 두 개의 Raydrop 장치를 직렬로 사용함으로써 시연되었습니다.\[2\] 내부상의 유량을 조정하여 캡슐화된 코어의 수를 제어할 수 있습니다. **“직렬로 연결된 두 칩” 플랫폼 구조와 이중 유화액 Raydrop 장치의 사용을 결합함으로써, 단일 액적 내 이중 유화액의 다중 캡슐화를 포함하여 더욱 복잡한 유화액을 생산할 수 있습니다**. 이와 같이 유망한 성과는 시너지 효과를 낼 수 있는 전달 시스템 또는 **호환되지 않는 API나 화학물질을 위한 화학 마이크로반응기로 사용될 수 있습니다**.
***단일 액적 내 코어 수를 변화시키기 위해 다양한 유량에서 얻은 여러 유화액의 이미지***
**직렬로 배치된 두 개의 RayDrop**
## Microfluidic Packs a traduire
### PLGA 미세입자 생산 팩
**단분산 PLGA 미세입자 생산**
**PLGA 미세입자 생산 스테이션은 폴리머 미립자를 균일하고 완전히 통제된 방식으로 생성하는 견고하면서도 고성능의 솔루션입니다.** **RayDrop 액적 생성기가 제공하는 성능**은 캡슐화 폴리머로서의 폴리(락틱-코-글리콜산)와 용매로서의 에틸아세테이트의 조합을 통해 **위험도와 강수 시간을 모두 낮추는 생체 적합 솔루션을 제공합니다.** 생물학적 응용 분야에 적합한 RayDrop과 스테이션은 실험실과 클리닉에서 사용되는 가장 성공적인 약물 전달 시스템 중 하나에 대한 반자동 솔루션을 제공합니다. **액적 제어 및 생성은 배치 유화 방법에 비해 매우 단분산이며, 안정적이고 지속적인 생산을 가능하게 합니다.**
[PLGA 미세입자 생산 팩 Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-plga-microparticle-ko.pdf)
**PLGA 미세입자 생산 팩의 특징:**
- **완전한 시스템**: PLGA 팩을 사용하면 PLGA 미세입자를 생성하기 시작하는 데 필요한 모든 구성 요소를 갖추게 됩니다.
- **엔지니어링된 솔루션**: 액적의 크기와 생성 속도에서 최대한의 유연성을 제공하도록 적절한 압력 조절기, 미세유체 칩 및 밸브를 사용하여 패키지를 구성했습니다.
- **전용 프로토콜:** 실험을 설정하고 시작하는 데 유용한 프로토콜을 제공합니다.
- **사용자 지정 가능:** 사용자의 요구 사항(액적 크기, 생성 속도, 이중 유화)에 맞게 PLGA 미세입자 생산 표준 팩을 조정할 수 있습니다.
### 적용 예시
**직경이 15~50µm인 PLGA 마이크로비드의 성공적인 생산이 입증되었습니다**.\[3\] 시중에 나와 있는 다른 기술과 비교할 때 PLGA 미세입자 생산 팩은 재현성과 단분산도(CV 2%)를 크게 높였습니다. 이를 통해 조사에 사용할 수 있는 PLGA 미세입자를 중단 없이 장기간 생성할 수 있습니다.
**RayDrop을 이용한 PLGA 미세입자 생산**
[PLGA 미세입자 생산 팩 Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-plga-microparticle-ko.pdf)
---
### Alginate 비드 생성 팩
**단분산성 Alginate 비드 생산 시스템**
**Fluigent Alginate 비드 생성 팩은 뛰어난 단분산 Alginate 비드를 생산하기 위한 견고하고 완전한 시스템입니다**. 이 팩은 유연하여 생산을 중단하지 않고 Alginate 비드가 수백 밀리초 내에 입자 크기를 변경할 수 있습니다.
**생성 팩은 Fluigent의 LineUP 미세유체 펌프와 고품질 입자 및 비드 생산을 위한 획기적인 기술인 RayDrop 장치로 구동됩니다.**
**Alginate 비드 생성 팩의 특징:**
- **완전한 시스템:** 이 패키지에는 Alginate 액적 생성을 시작하는 데 필요한 모든 구성 요소가 포함되어 있습니다.
- **엔지니어링된 솔루션**: 이 패키지는 액적 크기와 생성 속도를 맞춤 설정할 수 있는 압력 컨트롤러, 미세유체 칩, 밸브로 구성되어 있습니다.
- **전용 프로토콜:** 실험을 설정하고 시작하는 데 유용한 프로토콜을 제공합니다.
- **사용자 지정 가능**: 사용자의 요구 사항(액적 크기, 생성 속도)에 맞게 패키지를 조정할 수 있습니다.
### 적용 예시
Alignate 마이크로비드는 생체 적합성, 무독성, 생분해성 및 비용 효율성을 갖춘 가장 널리 연구된 세포 캡슐화 재료 중 하나입니다.\[4\]
**Alginate 비드는 RayDrop을 사용하여 액적 크기를 정밀하게 제어하며 성공적으로 생성할 수 있습니다. 95-160µm 직경의 마이크로비드는 물에 용해된 Alginate 용액으로 생성되었습니다.**
이 설정 및 프로토콜은 포유류 세포, 박테리아 및 다른 시약을 Alginate 비드로 캡슐화하는 데 사용될 수 있습니다.
*RayDrop을 이용한 Alginate 비드 생산*
## 미세유체 칩
### 드롭-시퀀스 실험용 PDMS 드롭-시퀀스 칩
드롭-시퀀스 칩
**드롭-시퀀스 칩은 Silane 소수성 코팅을 포함한 22가지 작동 설계가 포함된 PDMS 칩입니다.**
**드롭 시퀀스 칩의 특징:**
- **드롭 시퀀스 전용**: 각각의 액적 생성 장치는 최신 McCarroll 연구소 드롭-시퀀스 프로토콜에서 권장하는 설계를 기반으로 하여 최상의 성공 가능성을 보장합니다.
- **칩당 22개 이상의 실험**: 칩당 22개의 액적 생성 장치가 지속 가능한 칩에서 가치를 제공합니다. 한 장치의 수명이 다하면 간단히 다음 장치로 이동하면 됩니다. 또한, 드롭-시퀀스 칩은 고처리량 시퀀싱에 적합한 라이브러리를 빠르게 생성합니다.
- **전사체 라이브러리의 효율적인 생산: 각 세포에서 나온 라이브러리는 고유하게 바코드화되며, 실험당 백만 개 이상의 세포에 대해 실질적으로 바코드를 부여할 수 있습니다. 라이브러리 생성 및 바코딩 작업 흐름은 빠르고 단순하며, 견고하고 강력합니다.
- **우수한 디자인은 구성 유체의 최적 혼합을 촉진합니다**, 이를 통해 비드의 절단이나 세포의 조기 용해 및 mRNA 방출을 최소화합니다.
### 적용 예시
**세포 하위 집단의 식별**
드롭-시퀀스 칩의 주요 응용 분야 중 하나는 세포 집단의 연구 및 세포 하위 집단의 식별입니다. **개별 세포의 전사체 프로파일을 분석함으로써 연구자들은 유사한 유전자 발현 패턴을 가진 세포를 식별하고 하위 집단으로 분류할 수 있습니다**. 이는 뇌나 면역 체계와 같은 복잡한 조직에서 세포의 다양성과 기능을 이해하는 데 유용할 수 있습니다.
**세포 분화 분석
드롭-시퀀스의 또 다른 응용 분야는 발달 과정 연구입니다. 발달 단계가 다른 개별 세포를 분리하고 시퀀싱함으로써, 연구자들은 시간에 따른 유전자 발현의 변화와 세포가 어떻게 다른 세포 유형으로 분화하는지를 이해할 수 있습니다. **이는 생물체가 어떻게 발달하고 다양한 세포 유형이 어떻게 형성되는지에 대한 인사이트를 제공할 수 있습니다.**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/01/dropseq1-1.png)*드롭-시퀀스 방법의 주요 단계 \[1\]*
---
### 간편한 액적 생성 칩 EZ Drop
완벽하게 조정된 액체 취급 솔루션과 다양한 액세서리를 사용하면 실험 과정을 최대한 원활하고 쉽게 만들 수 있습니다**. EZ Drop을 사용하면 단분산성과 안정성이 높은 미세유체 액적을 쉽게 생성할 수 있어 정밀하고 정확한 실험이 가능합니다**.
**EZ Drop의 특징:**
- **다양한 액적 생성 속도 범위**: 최대 1,200Hz에서의 유중수 액적
- **맞춤형 액적 크기**: 유량을 조절함으로써 액적의 크기를 쉽게 조정할 수 있어, 생성되는 액적의 크기를 정밀하게 제어할 수 있습니다. 20µm에서 100µm 범위의 액적을 생성할 수 있습니다.
- **사용자 친화적인 미세유체 칩**: 액적 크기를 결정하는 마커가 통합된 PDMS 미세유체 칩 – 역류 방지를 위한 내장 저항
### 적용 예시
**EZ Drop 칩은 예시적인 디지털 PCR 분석에서 계면활성제의 사용 가능성을 보여주기 위해 사용되었습니다**. \[6\] 생성된 액적은 형태와 크기가 균일했습니다. 실험의 재현 가능성 또한 확인되었습니다. 동일한 매개변수로 액적을 생성하면 액적의 크기와 품질이 동일하게 나타납니다.
**액적 생성 과정. 적하와 분사 사이의 전환 모드에서 작동하는 액적 생성기. 액적의 크기 및 균일성과 마찬가지로 작동 모드에서 유의미한 차이는 인식되지 않습니다.**
[액적생성을위한미세유체기술](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
## Reference
(1) Macosko, E. Z. et al. Highly parallel genome-wide expression profiling of individual cells using nanoliter droplets. Cell 161, 1202–1214 (2015).
---
### [액적생성을위한미세유체기술](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 유화액과 액적이란 무엇입니까?
**유화액은적어도하나의비혼화성액체가다른액체에액적형태로분산된이질적인시스템입니다.** 유화되지 않으면, 밀도가 낮고 상이 밀도가 높은 상 위에 위치하게 됩니다**. 샐러드드레싱은유화액의흔한예시입니다**. 수성상(식초)과 유성상(올리브 오일)으로 이루어진 비네그레트는 유화되지 않으면 두 상이 분리됩니다. 비네그레트 병을 흔들면 식초가 기름진 연속상으로 분산되어 유화액을 만들 수 있습니다. **유화액에서는한액체(분산상이라고함)가다른액체(연속상이라고함)로분산됩니다.**
오일 액적 속의 물
## 유화액의 일반적인 응용 분야는 무엇입니까?
고분자 내 생체분자 캡슐화 \[1\]
**제약:** 유화액은 정맥 내, 근육 내, 안구용 또는 경구용 제품을 포함한 다양한 의약품에 사용됩니다. **유화액은고분자미세입자, 지질나노입자또는미세캡슐의템플릿으로도사용됩니다.** 여기에서는 유화액이 활성 약제 성분(API) 자체이거나 병용 투여를 위한 보조제로서 약물 전달에 사용될 수 있습니다.
**식품산업:** 다양한 크기의 액적 분포로 생성될 때 열역학적으로 안정된 분산체로서 유화액의 독특한 특성으로 인해 유화액은 식품 산업의 여러 응용 분야에 적합하게 됩니다.
비타민의 표적 전달 및 조절된 방출을 위한 유망한 접근법으로서 나노 캡슐화 \[2\]
미세유체 기술을 이용해 개발된 화장품 제품입니다.
**화장품:** 화장품에서 유화액 기반 제품은 사용 시 섬세한 질감과 부드러운 촉감을 제공하며, 활성 물질의 느리고 지속적인 방출을 위해 시판됩니다. 유화액 기반 제품은 **불용성물질의용해나용해도를개선할수도있습니다.** 최근에는 “밀리-유체” 장치가 시장에 등장하여 육안으로 관찰할 수 있는 유제를 만들 수 있게 되면서 시각적으로 매력이 높고 독창적인 제품을 개발할 수 있게 되었습니다.
## 왜 액적 미세유체 기술을 사용해야 할까요?
### 1) 전통적인방식의액적생성에대한한계점
**액적생산의표준방법**에는 고속 믹서기, 고압 밸브 균질기, 콜로이드 밀과 같은 기계적 장치가 포함됩니다. 액적 분리는 일반적으로 수동/기계적인 교반에 의해 발생하는 전단 또는 충격 응력을 사용하여 발생합니다. 이러한 조건 하에서, 발생하는 응력은 보통 시스템 전반에 걸쳐 균일하지 않습니다. 그 결과로, **생성된유화액은크기면에서다분산성을보입니다. 유화액의안정성이크기에의존하기때문에많은응용분야에서심각한제한이될수있습니다.**
a) 배치 방식과 b) 미세유체 방식을 사용한 마이크로 유화액 생성
### 2) 제어된유화액생성을위한미세유체장치
**단분산성이매우중요한응용분야를위해미세유체시스템을이용한액적생산이도입되었습니다**. 마이크로미터 크기의 채널에서는 한 번에 한 방울씩 생성되어, 균일한 크기의 액적을 생산할 수 있습니다. **이러한수준의제어를통해** 디지털 PCR 및 액적 내 단일 세포 포집과 같이 이전에는 불가능했던 응용 분야가 등장하게 되었습니다. 또한, **비싼 API(활성제약성분)를사용하는응용분야에있어탁월한방법입니다**, 왜냐하면 이 방법은 폐기물을 적게 발생시키기 때문입니다. 전형적인 미세유체 시스템에서는 미세유체 칩이 하나 이상의 흐름 컨트롤러에 연결되어 내부로 유체를 주입합니다. **액적의크기는주로미세유체채널의크기, 유체의특성(점도), 사용된유량에의존합니다.**
미세유체 기반의 액적 생성 및 제어를 통해 다음이 가능하게 됩니다.
- **매우균일한분포**(<2% 크기 변동)를 가진 액적 생산을 배치 유화액 방식과 달리 상대적으로 높은 빈도로 달성할 수 있습니다.
- **높은재현성을가진복잡한구조**(다중 유화액, 다중 코어 유화액 등)
- 개별 pL 규모의 생화학 반응기로서 **단일액적조작**이 가능합니다.
- **생산및생체분석장치의소형화**
## 액적 칩에서 재료와 표면 처리의 한계를 극복하는 방법
**대부분의상업용미세유체액적생성기는평면흐름‑집중구성**을 폴리머 또는 유리 칩에 적용하여 사용합니다. **이기하학적형태는많은제한사항이있습니다**, 예를 들어 **특정코팅이나전용계면활성제가필요합니다**. 반면, 유리 모세관‑기반 액적 생산 장치는 분산 상이 외부 모세관의 벽(a,b)과 접촉하지 않기 때문에 큰 개선이 이루어졌습니다.
모세관의 중심을 맞추는 것(모세관 중심화)이 구현하기 어려웠고, 시중에 나와 있는 설계는 액적 생산에 있어 유연성이 떨어집니다(직경 > 100µm, 생성 속도 < 1kHz). **두개의원형모세관을사각형외부흐름모세관(c,d)에삽입함으로써중심맞추기를단순화할수있지만, 관련제조방식은대량생산을제한하고**, 고처리량 모세관 기반 액적 생산은 아직까지 이루어지지 않았습니다**. 추출튜브를주입튜브앞에배치하여주변을구속하지않는새로운구성(e)은유망한대안을제시합니다**. 하지만 이 시스템은 **액적의단일분산성을보장하지않는분사체제에서만작동하고** 드리핑 체제와도 관련이 있습니다.
사용 가능한 모세관 기반 축 대칭 설계의 액적 생성기
## Raydrop: 비내장형 공동 집중 미세유체 액적 생성기
**Fluigent와 Secoya는후자의구성을기반으로새로운시스템을개발했지만,** **이시스템은추출모세관보다작은직경의주입모세관을사용하여강제로액적을생성하는방식을적용합니다**. 이것은 최신 기계 가공 및 3D 프린팅 기법의 개선된 조합으로 이루어집니다. 이 비내장형 디자인은 **공동흐름및흐름집중구성의특성을모두나타내고** “비내장형 공동 집중” 디자인으로 설명됩니다. 이 구성은 미세유체 액적 생성기의 설계 배열에서의 공백을 메웁니다.
(a) Raydrop의 분해도 및 (b)조립도 (c) 주입 및 추출 유리 모세관이 장착된 Raydrop (d) 연속상으로 채워진 챔버 내 정렬된 두 모세관의 상단 창을 통해 확대한 모습 (e) 모세관 기반 액적 생성 영역을 확대한 모습
*PLGA 마이크로비드의 예시*
## Raydrop은사용하기쉽고상업적으로구입가능한미세유체칩으로, 우수한단분산성을가진액적을생성할수있도록해줍니다.
Raydrop®을 사용하면 코팅 처리 없이 **단순유화액**(수중유 및 유중수)과 **이중유화액**(유중수중유 또는 수중유중수)을 생산할 수 있습니다.
이중 유화액은 단일 유화액에 비해 많은 장점이 있습니다. 이중 유화액은 일반적으로 더 안정적이며 응집하기 쉽지 않고, 취급하고 분석하기가 더 용이합니다. **이중유화액**은 수성 연속상에서 쉽게 분산될 수 있습니다(단, 생명 과학 분야에서 단일 유화액은 그렇지 않은 경우가 많습니다). 이를 통해 **형광활성화세포분류(FACS)와같은자동화된세포분류**로 특성화하고 분류할 수 있습니다. 또한, **이중유화액은쉘을경화시켜마이크로캡슐을제조하는훌륭한템플릿입니다.**
*PLGA(*왼쪽*)* 및키토산*(*오른쪽*)* 마이크로캡슐의예시
## 액적 생성에서 유량이 어떤 역할을 합니까?
**유량의안정성은반복가능한반응기부피와재현가능한결과를위해서매우중요합니다.** 시린지 펌프는 미세유체 실험에서 액적 생성에 흔히 사용됩니다. 시린지 펌프는 사용 중인 모델에 따라 유량 제어가 제한됩니다. 그러므로 유량에 비례하는 액적 크기에 영향을 받습니다. 이러한 장치로 실제 유량을 모니터링할 수 없습니다. 장치에는 유량 값이 표시되지만, 설정된 유량에 도달하는 데 필요한 시간에 대한 정보는 제공되지 않습니다(유량 평형에 이르는 시간은 미세유체 설정에 따라 다를 수 있고, 기기에 따라 유량이 달라질 수 있음). **시린지펌프의대안으로는당사의 Flow EZ 압력을기반으로하는유량컨트롤러가있습니다. 이러한컨트롤러를사용하면고정밀유량제어, 빠른반응시간, 유량모니터링이가능합니다.** 시린지 펌프와 비교하여 안정적이고 반복 가능한 흐름이 생성되었습니다.
[당사의 액적 제품 및 솔루션에 대해서 더 자세히 알아보세요.](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
## References
1. Iqbal, M., Zafar, N., Fessi, H., & Elaissari, A. (2015). Double emulsion solvent evaporation techniques used for drug encapsulation. International Journal of Pharmaceutics. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.10.057
2. Katouzian, I., Jafari, S.M., Nano-encapsulation as a promising approach for targeted delivery and controlled release of vitamins, Trends in Food Science & Technology (2016), https://doi: 10.1016/j.tifs.2016.05.002
---
### [정밀 유체 제어를 위한 미세유체 솔루션 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 미세유체 압력 기반 유량 컨트롤러
**Fluigent는 미세유체 내에서 유체를 처리하기 위한 미세유체 압력 기반 유량 컨트롤러를 도입한 최초의 회사입니다**. 압력 구동식 유량 제어 시스템에 의한 유체 작동은 시료가 들어 있는 저장소를 가압하여 미세유체 장치에 빠르게 주입하는 것으로 구성됩니다.
특허받은 FASTABTM 기술을 기반으로 하는 **당사의 컨트롤러는 안정적이고 흔들림 없는 유량을 보장하여 실험의 정확성과 재현성을 향상시킵니다.** 압력을 사용하므로 응답 시간이 빨라지고 비용이 절감됩니다.
**두 가지 주요 제품 라인, 즉 진화하고 컴팩트하며 적응력이 뛰어난 작동을 위한 LineUpTM 시리즈와 현장에서 입증된 맞춤형 경험을 위한 MFCS 시리즈로 제공됩니다**.
### MFCS
MFCS™, 즉 미세유체 유량 제어 시스템은 압력 기반의 미세유체 유량 컨트롤러입니다. 미세유체 실험을 위해 다양한 압력 범위로 4채널 또는 8채널을 사용할 수 있습니다. MFCS™는 일정한 압력 기반 유량을 생성하여 신뢰할 수 있고 반복 가능한 실험을 가능하게 합니다.
**MFCS의 특징**
- **독립 채널:** 각 채널은 독립적으로 제어되며, 유체를 처리하기 위해 특정한 압력이나 진공을 제공할 수 있습니다. 사용 가능한 압력 범위는 진공 흡인의 경우 -800mbar부터 압력의 경우 최대 7bar까지입니다.
- **우수한 결과 신속하게 제공**: 압력 목표에 빠르게 도달하고 실험을 즉시 시작할 수 있습니다. 현장에서 입증된 기술을 통해 실험에서 신뢰할 수 있고 우수한 결과를 빠르게 얻을 수 있습니다.
- **신뢰할 수 있고 재현 가능한 결과**: MFCS™는 기기와 시약 간에 직접 접촉이 없어 교차 오염을 방지합니다. 압력 구동 기술로 구현되는 흔들림 없는 정밀한 제어는 많은 응용분야에서 반복 가능한 결과를 얻기 위해 매우 중요합니다.
- **완전히 사용자 정의 가능:** MFCS™의 설계는 사용자의 필요에 따라 달라집니다. 기기의 채널 수(4개 또는 8개)를 선택할 수 있으며, 각 채널의 범위는 -800mbar~7bar이고, 압력 또는 진공 소스를 기기 내부에 통합하는 옵션도 있습니다.
---
### LineUP
당사의 LineUp™ 제품군은 차세대 미세유체 시스템입니다.
- **Flow EZ™ 또는 푸시-풀 모듈을 사용하면 압력 및 진공을 정밀하게 조절하고 제어할 수 있으며,** **LINK 및 LINK COM 모듈은 컴퓨터** 또는 외부 기기에 TTL 포트, USB 케이블 또는 직렬 포트 통신을 사용하여 통신을 제공합니다.
- **Adapt는 추가 압력 소스 없이도 압력 범위가 다른 Flow EZ™ 모듈을 연결하는 데 사용**됩니다. **P-SWITCH를 사용하면 시스템의 출구를 늘릴 수 있고, SWITCH EZ는 미세유체 밸브를 제어합니다**. 전체 시스템은 로컬 제어를 사용하여 PC 없이도 제어할 수 있으며, Fluigent 소프트웨어로 모니터링하여 기능을 확장하고 자동화의 이점을 누릴 수 있습니다.
필요한 모듈을 선택하여 결합할 수 있습니다.
[Flow EZ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-flow-ez-ko.pdf)
**FlowEZ와 MFCS를 사용한 적용 사례:**
AMMS(베이징) 생물정보학 센터의 **Hongjuan Wei 등** 연구진은 **mRNA 제품의 간소화된 온디맨드 준비**를 위한 해당 제어 시스템을 갖춘 **범용 통합 플랫폼을 개발하는 데 성공**했습니다. 압력 구동 **컨트롤러(FlowEZ)와 유량 센서(FlowUnit)**를 사용하여 스태거드 헤링본 마이크로믹싱 칩을 기반으로 하는 mRNA 캡슐화 모듈이 **이 플랫폼에 통합**되었습니다. **\[1\]**
mRNA 캡슐화 모듈.
## 미세유체 센서
**Fluigent의 미세유체 센서 세트를 사용하면 유량을 직접 제어하고 모니터링하거나 설치 시 압력/진공 측정 범위를 확장할 수 있습니다.** 이를 통해 모든 유체 응용분야에서 유량을 측정하고/또는 제어하는 솔루션을 제공합니다**. 당사의 미세유체 센서는 액체 유량 조절, 시약 및 시료 사용 최소화, 신속한 분석, 시스템 소형화 및 병렬화, 폐기물 발생 감소 등의 이점을 제공합니다.**
### 유량 센서
**FLOW UNIT 및 FLOW UNIT+는 양방향 미세유체 유량 센서**로, Line Up™ 컨트롤러 또는 Flowboard 허브를 사용하는 MFCS™ 시리즈와 같은 기타 미세유체 제어 시스템과 함께 독립적으로 사용할 수 있습니다.
다양한 저유량 범위에서 사용 가능한 FLOW UNIT 및 FLOW UNIT+ 미세유체 유량
[Flow Unit Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/datasheet-flow-unit-ko.pdf)
**Flow Unit의 특징:**
- **다양한 액체에 대한 측정 조정** 유량 센서가 보정되는 유체가 아닌 다른 유체를 취급할 때 FLOW UNIT과 결합하면 측정값에 배율을 추가할 수 있습니다. 유기 용액의 경우 FLOW UNIT 모델 S, M+, L+에 이소프로필 알코올을 사용한 두 번째 교정 기능이 내장되어 있습니다.
- **유량 측정:** FLOW UNIT 및 FLOW UNIT+는 유체의 초저 유량을 빠르고 정확하게 측정할 수 있게 해줍니다.
- **다양한 유량 범위에 대한 정밀도:** 다양한 FLOW UNIT 모델은 7nL/min ~ 5mL/min 범위에서 사용자의 요구에 가장 적합한 광범위한 유량 범위를 제공합니다.
- **실험 모니터링 및 제어**
---
### 압력 센서
**PRESSURE UNIT은 유체 경로에서의 압력을 연속적으로 측정하는 독립형 미세유체 인라인 압력 센서입니다**. 당사의 미세유체 인라인 압력 센서를 사용하면 안정적이고 흔들림 없이 반응하는 방식으로 압력을 정확하게 모니터링하고 제어할 수 있습니다. 측정하고자 하는 압력 범위에 따라 세 가지 다른 고정밀 압력 센서(S, M, XL)를 이용할 수 있습니다.
**Flow Unit의 특징:**
- **광범위한 감지 범위: PRESSURE UNIT은 -1000mbar부터 7bar 범위 내에서 압력 및 진공을 정확하게 측정할 수 있는 미세유체 인라인 압력 센서입니다. 당사의 압력 감지기는 다양한 유량을 측정할 수 있는 넓은 범위를 제공합니다.
- **실시간 표시: Fluigent의 OxyGEN 소프트웨어를 사용하여 압력 측정값을 그래픽으로 모니터링할 수 있습니다. 전용 소프트웨어를 통해 사용자는 PC에서 직접 데이터 수집을 제어할 수 있습니다.
- **허브 불필요: 센서를 PC에 직접 연결하여 압력 검출을 위한 컴팩트 솔루션의 이점을 활용하세요. 미세유체 인라인 압력 센서는 귀하의 미세유체 시스템 어디에나 (인라인으로) 연결될 수 있습니다.
- **압력 제어: 사용자는 미세유체 압력 감지기와 당사의 압력 컨트롤러 시스템을 결합하여 정밀한 압력 제어를 달성할 수 있습니다.
**유량 장치 적용 사례**
텍사스 대학교 오스틴 캠퍼스 기능 광학 이미징 연구실의 **Colin Sullender 등** 연구진은 시린지 펌프와 압력 구동식 유량 컨트롤러에서 생성되는 **유량의 불확실성을 정량화하는 데 성공**했습니다. MFCS-EZ 컨트롤러를 사용하여 시린지 펌프와 비교하여 안정적이고 반복 가능한 유량이 생성되었습니다. 얻은 결과를 바탕으로 **시린지 펌프 시스템에서 압력 구동식 컨트롤러로 전환하는 것은 유량 관련 오류를 제거하고 보다 신뢰할 수 있는 측정 및 영상 유량 기법을 생성하기 위한 핵심 요소**입니다. 이 접근 방식은 영상촬영 기법을 정확하게 평가하고 비교하는 측면에서 새로운 기회를 열어줍니다(이 논문에서 레이저 LSCI와 다중 노출 스페클 영상을 비교하여 입증된 바와 같이). \[2\]
*미세유체 유량 평가 설정의 개략도.*
**이상적인 사전 정의 유량(검정색)과 비교한 시린지 펌프(파란색) 및 압력 구동식(빨간색) 유량 시스템의 유량 센서 측정값**
## 미세유체 밸브
마이크로밸브라고도 불리는 미세유체 밸브는 **미세유체 장치에서 다양한 밸브 포트를 통해 액체를 처리하는 데 사용되는 기본 구성 요소**입니다.
**Fluigent 미세유체 밸브를 사용하면 사용자가 실험의 유체 경로를 복잡하게 만들 수 있습니다.** 이 밸브는 PC가 없어도 설정에 쉽게 통합하고 실시간으로 제어할 수 있습니다.
**당사의 미세유체 밸브는 시약 소비를 최소화하여 실험 비용을 절감하고 내부 부피가 작다는 특징이 있습니다**. 또한 교차 오염과 바이오필름 형성의 위험을 방지하여 불용액을 방지합니다. 최적화된 재질로 기계적 움직임에 대한 안정성이 뛰어나고 화학적 호환성이 높습니다.
**Fluigent 밸브의 특징:**
- **소형 장치**
- **자동화 기능**
- **적응성 및 다용도성**
- **양방향 유량**
- **낮은 내부 부피**
- **빠른 작동 시간**
---
### L-SWITCH™ 주입 밸브 6포트/2포지션
**L-SWITCH™는 다양한 밸브 포트를 통해 액체를 처리하는 데 사용되는 6포트/2포지션 양방향 미세유체 주입 밸브입니다**. 이 밸브는 유체 라인에서 시료 주입을 자동화할 수 있으므로 정밀한 정량 주입 또는 다른 유체 간 전환에 이상적입니다.
L-SWITCH™ 재순환 밸브 6포트/2포지션
**L-SWITCH™ 재순환 밸브는 다양한 밸브 포트를 통해 액체를 처리하는 데 사용되는 6포트/2포지션 양방향 미세유체 재순환 밸브입니다**. 장기간 단방향 재순환 유량을 수행할 수 있어 세포 배양 응용분야의 액체 재순환에 이상적입니다.
---
### M-SWITCH™ 11포트/10포지션 양방향 밸브
**M-SWITCH™는 최대 10가지의 다양한 유체 또는 칩을 주입하거나 선택하기 위한 11포트/10포지션 미세유체 양방향 밸브입니다**. 유체는 밸브에서 양방향으로 흐릅니다. 이 장치는 멀티플렉싱 또는 디멀티플렉싱 목적으로 분배기 또는 셀렉터로 사용할 수 있습니다.
---
### 2-SWITCH™ 샘플링 밸브 3포트/2웨이
**2-SWITCH™는 소형 3포트/2웨이 미세유체 샘플링 밸브입니다. 표준 피팅을 사용하여 모든 미세유체 설정에 통합할 수 있습니다**. 독특하고 컴팩트한 디자인 덕분에 사용자는 2-SWITCH™ 장치를 결합하여 벤치탑 공간을 절약할 수 있습니다.
---
**L-Switch 적용 사례**
세포가 생체 내에서 실험하는 **유량 조건을 재현하는 데 적합한 기기를 선택하는 것은 세포의 생존, 확산, 표현형 및 유전자 발현 확장에 영향을 미치기 때문에 매우 중요**합니다.
**이 기술의 핵심적인 측면 중 하나는 사용되는 관류 시스템의 유형입니다**. 이러한 관점에서 제어 장기 온칩 응용분야를 위한 압력 기반 유량 컨트롤러로 재순환 시스템을 구축하여 기존 시린지 펌프와 비교했습니다. 두 개의 Flow EZ 장치가 두 개의 저장 탱크에 연결되었습니다. 튜브는 매체 재순환을 허용하는 L-SWITCH, 유량 장치, 미세유체 장치를 통과했습니다.
**Flow EZ와 L-Switch를 사용한 결과, 2% 미만의 유량 변화(시린지 펌프의 경우 40%에 비해)로 안정적인 유속이 관찰되었습니다**. 이는 내피 세포의 생존과 생리적 표현형의 유지를 촉진했습니다.
**연동 펌프 및 압력 기반 미세유체 제어 시스템을 사용한 시간 함수로서의 유량.**
## References
1. Wei, H.; Rong, Z.; Liu, L.; Sang, Y.; Yang, J.; Wang, S. Streamlined and On-Demand Preparation of mRNA Products on a Universal Integrated Platform. Microsyst Nanoeng 2023, 9 (1), 97. .
2. Sullender, C. T.; Santorelli, A.; Richards, L. M.; Mannava, P. K.; Smith, C.; Dunn, A. K. Using Pressure-Driven Flow Systems to Evaluate Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging. J. Biomed. Opt. 2023, 28 (03). .
---
### [미세유체 연구 장비](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
**Published:** December 7, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
### 어떤연구응용분야가가능한가요?
당사의 미세유체 연구 장비는 모든 연구 분야에서 최적화되고 유망한 결과를 도출할 수 있도록 해줍니다.
미세유체 분야에서 당사의 제품은 높은 재현성을 가진 실험을 수행할 수 있게 해줍니다. 미세유체 칩이나 장치와 같은 마이크로미터 채널 내부의 흐름의 물리학과 근본적인 거동을 분석하기 위해서는 정밀한 유체 제어가 중요합니다.
[Fluigent의 미세유체 기술 전문성에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
[Fluigent 미세유체 제품 제안에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
장기 온칩 및 세포 배양 연구에서 미세유체는 높은 시공간적 정밀도로 세포 미세 환경을 제어하고 보다 생리적으로 관련된 맥락에서 세포에 기계적 및 생화학적 신호를 제시할 수 있는 고유한 능력을 가능하게 합니다.
[ Fluigent의 세포 배양 및 장기 온칩 전문성에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
[Fluigent 세포 배양 및 장기 온칩 제품에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
액적 및 입자 생성에서 당사의 연구용 미세유체 장비를 사용하면 높은 단분산도와 재현성이 요구되는 실험(디지털 PCR, 액적 내 단일 세포 캡슐화 등)을 수행할 수 있을 뿐만 아니라 고가의 API를 사용하는 경우에도 폐기물을 크게 줄일 수 있습니다.
[Fluigent 액적 및 입자 생성 기술에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
[Fluigent 액적 및 입자 생성 제품에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
체학, 특히 공간 체학 분야에서 미세유체 기술의 결합은 생물학 연구에서의 혁신적인 돌파구를 의미합니다. 공간 체학은 생물학적 분자를 공간적 규모로 분석하는 반면, 미세유체는 정밀도와 효율성을 향상시킵니다. 이러한 통합은 특히 암 생물학과 같은 분야에서 조직의 분자 상호 작용에 대한 상세한 인사이트를 제공합니다. 미세유체는 시약 사용을 줄이고 실험 속도를 높여 연구의 효율성을 증진시키고, 질병 이해의 진전을 가속화하여 진단 및 치료 개선에 기여합니다.
[Fluigent 체학 전문성에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
[Fluigent 체학 제품에 대해 자세히 알아보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics/)
---
### [문의하기](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- 판매 지원
- 기타 연락처
## 고객 서비스
Fluigent에서는 작동하지 않는 시스템이 연구실의 시간 손실을 의미한다는 것을 알고 있습니다. Fluigent의 고객 지원 팀은 시의적절하고 비용 효율적인 수리를 수행하기 위해 최선을 다하고 있습니다. 고객이 가능한 한 빨리 실험을 재개할 수 있도록 미세유체 조언에서 장치의 수리에 이르기까지 다양한 지원을 제공합니다.
[FAQ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/ "FAQ")에서 답변을 찾지 못한 경우 전담 팀에 문의해 주십시오. 24시간 이내 답변을 보장하며 필요 시 원격 진단 또는 현장방문을 통한 진단이 이어집니다.
### 유럽 및 기타 세계
**Maya Ballet**
contact@fluigent.com
电话号码: +33 6 37 67 56 79
电话: +33(0)1 7701 8268
### 북아메리카
****James Lazich****
fluigentinc@fluigent.com
电话号码: +1 978-926-3307
电话: +1 978-268-0347
## 판매 지원
당사의 기술에 관심이 있으십니까? 설정에 대한 조언이 필요하십니까? 미세유체 장치를 시작하기를 원하십니까?
메시지를 보내주십시오! 언제든지 환영합니다.
### 유럽 및 기타 세계
**Alain Crampon**
alain.crampon@fluigent.com or
contact@fluigent.com
电话号码: +33(0)6 08641242
电话: +33(0)1 82 39 43 81
### 북아메리카
**Fernando Ferreira**
fernando.ferreira@fluigent.com or
fluigentinc@fluigent.com
电话号码: +1 781-796-7920
电话: +1 978-306-6988
## 기타 연락처
### 고객 서비스
FLUIGENT
contact@fluigent.com
电话: +33(0)1 7701 8268
### 표준 모바일
电话: +33(0)1 82 39 43 81
---
---
### [고유량제어를위한미세유체](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 미세유체는어떻게작동하나요?
미세유체는 **작은부피와공간을사용하여매우정밀한유체제어**를 다룹니다. 미세유체 칩은 미세채널이 성형되거나 패턴화된 미세유체 연구에 사용되는 장치입니다. **마이크로채널은유체가서로다른채널을통과하여** 한 위치에서 다른 위치로 이동할 수 있도록 연결됩니다. 이 네트워크는 입구 및 출구 포트를 통해 외부 환경과 연결됩니다. **액체또는가스는수동방식또는외부능동시스템(압력컨트롤러, 시린지펌프또는연동펌프)을사용하여미세유체칩에서주입, 관리또는제거됩니다.**
채널은 일반적으로 5~500μm 범위의 다양한 내경을 가질 수 있으며, 해당 네트워크는 사용될 응용분야와 수행될 분석에 맞게 특별히 설계되어야 합니다. 따라서 **미세유체칩을사용하면일반적으로실험실전체가필요한여러기능을하나의마이크로크기장치에통합**할 수 있습니다.
*미세유체 칩 예시*
## 마이크로미터단위에서유체에는어떤변화가일어나나요?
마이크로미터 단위에서는 유체의 거동이 변화하고 **빠른열전달, 표면대부피비율증가, 층류, 확산혼합가능성** 등 여러 가지 이점을 제공합니다. 또한 미세유체는 **시료및시약소비를크게줄이고** **실험시간을단축하며** **응용분야의전반적인비용을절감합니다**.
마이크로전자 기술의 발전과 트랜지스터의 소형화 덕분에 이 개념은 “랩온어칩”(LoC) 원리와 “마이크로 전체 분석 시스템”(μTAS) 도입을 통해 생의학 및 화학 분야로 전환되었습니다. 미세유체 칩의 초기 사례 중 하나로, 1979년 S. Terry 등은 가스 크로마토그래프의 기능을 소형화한 실리콘 웨이퍼 칩을 개발했습니다. 이 선구적인 연구 이후 **미세유체는폭발적인성장을거듭하여학계연구자와산업계모두에게없어서는안될도구가되었습니다.**
*미세유체의 발전*
## 미세유체의장점은무엇입니까?
미세유체의장점 \[1\]
**미세유체과관련된핵심개념은일반적으로실험실전체가필요한간단한마이크로크기의시스템작동에통합하는것입니다**. 현재 **미세유체시스템에서기존의스케일업은멀티플렉싱으로대체되고있는데**, 이는 장치의 크기가 작아져 배합에서 생산까지 걸리는 시간을 획기적으로 단축할 수 있기 때문입니다. 이로 인해 **미세유체기술은분석목적뿐만아니라공정산업, 특히정밀화학, 식품, 환경, 제약분야의대규모제조에도채택되고있습니다**. 최근 몇 년 동안 미세유체 장치는 생화학 및 분자 생물학 응용분야에서 분석 도구로 광범위하게 채택되었습니다.
**미세유체시스템은또한우수한데이터품질과향상된매개변수제어기능을제공하여** 성능을 유지하면서 프로세스를 자동화할 수 있습니다. 미세유체 시스템은 약간의 시료 처리만으로 시료를 처리하고 분석할 수 있는 능력을 갖추고 있습니다. **미세유체칩과유체처리시스템**을 정교하게 연결하여 통합된 자동화를 통해 **사용자가낮은수준의전문지식으로많은기능을필요로할때다단계반응을생성**할 수 있도록 합니다.
예를 들어, **미세유체는기존방식에비해수질분석의감도가향상**되어 더 낮은 농도의 오염 물질을 감지할 수 있습니다. 분석 시간이 크게 줄어들어 실시간 모니터링을 가능하게 하고 매우 적은 양의 시료를 사용함으로써 효율성을 높이고 물 낭비를 방지합니다.
또한 **미세유체기술은고품질의세심한규제를받는의료제품에대한수요를충족하기때문에향후나노의약품제조** 및 치료제와 진단의 투여에 중요한 역할을 할 것으로 기대됩니다.
## 미세유체의이러한이점을활용하는방법.
**미세유체에서는마이크로미터단위의다양한유량제어기술에대한숙달**이 미세유체 실험의 성공적인 수행을 위해 점점 더 중요해지고 있습니다. 예를 들어, 시스템에 적용되는 유속은 생성된 액적의 크기를 정의하거나 세포에 특정 전단 응력을 발생시켜 세포의 성장, 공간 조직 및 단백질 분비에 영향을 미치는 등 강력하고 재현 가능한 데이터를 생성하려면 **유량매개변수에대한정밀한제어가필요**합니다. 시스템에 적용되는 유량의 오차는 다산성 액적, 불안정한 시스템, 세포 손상, 더 일반적으로는 실험의 실패로 이어질 수 있습니다. **따라서모든미세유체시스템에서는완벽하고안정적인유량제어가필수적입니다.**
## 미세유체에서유량을전달하는데가장많이사용되는시스템은무엇인가요?
### 시린지펌프
**시린지펌프는소량주입에적합하지만, 특히매우낮은유속에서는압력펌프보다정밀도가떨어집니다**. 다양한 품질과 가격대의 제품이 시중에 나와 있습니다.
미세유체 유량 제어에서 시린지 펌프는 스테퍼 모터에 의해 작동되는 기계 시스템을 기반으로 하며, 이는 시린지를 정밀한 비율로 밀어내어 다양한 유량 범위를 가능하게 합니다. 그러나 **기계식작동은특히기포, 점성이있는액체및준수튜브가있는경우유량맥동을생성하고응답및침전시간이길어질수있습니다**. 또한 시스템 내의 실제 유량은 모니터링되지 않으므로 누출, 막힘 또는 잘못된 설정으로 인해 유량 주문에 도달하지 못할 경우 결과 편향이 발생할 수 있습니다. **압력도제어되지않으며**, 마이크로 시스템이 막히면 압력이 손상 수준까지 상승할 수 있습니다. 이 텍스트는 특히 미세입자를 사용할 때 정기적으로 막힘을 점검하고 실험을 자동화할 때 기술의 잠재적 한계를 인식할 것을 사용자에게 조언합니다.
*시린지 펌프 반응 시간 그래프*
### 연동펌프
연동 펌핑은 유연한 튜브의 압축과 이완을 기반으로 합니다. 회전하는 롤러가 펌프 내부에 장착된 튜브를 따라 지나가면서 압축하여 튜브에 진공을 만들고 유체를 끌어당깁니다. 이 유체 작동 방식은 미세유체 실험실에서 사용될 수 있으며 비용이 비교적 저렴합니다.
**미세유체유량제어에서, 연동펌핑은유체재순환뿐만아니라대량의유량과높은유속을처리하는데적합한옵션입니다. 그러나튜브의압축은유량에펄스를유도하므로유량정밀도가중요한대부분의미세유체응용분야에는적합하지않습니다**. 또한 튜브 손상을 방지하기 위해 플렉시블 튜브를 정기적으로 교체해야 합니다.
### 압력컨트롤러솔루션
압력 구동식 유량 컨트롤러에 의한 유체 작동은 시료가 들어 있는 저장소를 가압하여 미세유체 장치에 빠르게 주입하는 것으로 구성됩니다. 이 저장소의 크기는 1.5/2ml Eppendorf 튜브부터 15/50ml Falcon 바이알, 심지어 수백 밀리리터의 대형 병에 이르기까지 매우 다양합니다.
미세유체 유량 제어를 위해 제어된 가스 압력이 유체를 밀어내고, 이 유체는 저장소 배출구를 통해 흐르게 됩니다**. 가스압력컨트롤러가제공하는탁월한조절기능덕분에이러한시스템은나노리터/분미만에서수십밀리리터/분까지매우안정적인유량을달성할수있습니다.**
Fluigent의 MFCS와 FLOW EZ 압력 컨트롤러
**Fluigent는 7×10-3bar의낮은분해능을제공하는 MFCS-EZ™ 및 LineUp™ 압력구동컨트롤러를선보입니다.** 예를 들어, **모든시리즈는최저 100ms의안정화시간과 0.03% 풀스케일(압력센서분해능)의분해능, 측정값에대한 0.1% CV의안정성을제공합니다**.
유량 센서를 압력 컨트롤러와 결합하면 사용자가 직접 유량을 제어할 수 있습니다. **압력은 Fluigent의 Oxygen과같은강력한알고리즘을통해조정됩니다**. 또한 압력 컨트롤러에 연결된 밸브를 통해 유체 재순환이 가능합니다.
**압력펌프의또다른장점은사용자가단하나의압력채널로여러개의저장소에압력을가할수있다는것입니다.** 따라서 여러 솔루션을 순차적으로 주입하려는 경우 설정 비용을 크게 절감할 수 있습니다. 이러한 장점으로 인해 **압력기반유량컨트롤러는매개변수(크기, 혼합, 유량등)에대한높은수준의제어및정밀도가요구되는응용분야에사용됩니다**. 액적 생성, ddPCR, 세포 배양 및 세포 관류, 장기 온칩 연구, 나노 입자 합성, 마이크로캡슐, 마이크로비드와 관련된 실험에서 탁월한 결과를 제공합니다.
[미세유체용 제품 및 솔루션 살펴보기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
## Reference
1- Bahnemann, J.; Grünberge, A. Microfluidics in Biotechnology: Overview and Status Quo. Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology book series, 2022, ABE,volume 179.
---
### [Fluigent 뉴스레터](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigent-newsletter/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
---
### [Fluigent Newsletter](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigent-newsletter/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
---
### [关于我们](https://www.fluigent.com/company/about-us/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
**10个**
国籍
**60名**
遍布全球的员工
**20项**
专利
**2家**
子公司
**12个**
分销商
## 为什么选择Fluigent？
微流控实验室和业界正致力于研究和开发出达到流体控制水平和精度要求的设备。因此，市场需要更快、更稳定和更精确的微尺度流体处理技术。传统的注射泵或蠕动泵难以达到这种性能水平，无法满足市场需求。
Fluigent公司是第一家通过引入创新技术（压力泵）来解决这一问题的公司。Fluigent独特的解决方案，可广泛应用于微流控和纳米流控中，从而不仅可以更优的控制性、自动化、精确性、易用性来完全控制流速，还能将污染降到最低。Fluigent已向全球数百家客户提供了数千套获得专利的压力流量控制器系统。
Fluigent的产品设计和制造活动不仅仅是简单的组装工作，同时需要掌握算法、机械、电子、气动和微流控领域的专业知识。
## Fluigent在快速增长的微流控领域处于全球领先地位
### 什么是微流控？
微流控是一门操纵和控制流体的科学，通常流体的量级在微升（10-6）到皮升（10-12）范围内，而流体流动通道的尺寸在几十到几百微米之间。这一学科起源于20世纪90年代初，并迅速发展。微流控技术被视为生命科学研究或更广泛意义上——生物技术领域中的一种重要工具。
对于学术研究人员和工业团体来说，这是一项非常有吸引力的技术，因为可以带来以下好处：
- 开发新的定制治疗方案
- 通过缩短时间和降低成本，加速新药和疫苗的发现
- 减少动物试验
- 对环境影响较小
- 在微观尺度上再现活体人体器官的机械特性
Fluigent独特的解决方案提供了更优的控制性、自动化、精确性、易用性。
## 我们的愿景
改善日常的现实问题，让世界变得更安全，让生命因加速发展的科学进步和探索而受益
## 我们的发展故事
Fluigent公司于2005年由巴黎居里研究所的研究人员创立。Fluigent是率先将压力驱动式流量控制设备引入微流控研究市场的公司，此设备与传统的注射泵和蠕动泵截然不同。
## 我们的价值观
### 创新
作为微流控领域的先驱，Fluigent已经设定了微流控的标准，并努力走在该学科的前沿。创新是公司业务的核心，无论是在产品还是过程方面，都是如此。
### 以客户为中心
除了产品性能，Fluigent还注重产品的易用性，并提供最高水平的技术支持以优化客户体验。我们的专门团队可以随时为您提供帮助，并且承诺在24小时内进行回复。
### 团队合作
我们来自不同的背景和文化，但作为一个团队共同成长。我们的团队充分利用工程和商业方面不同的观点，开发出符合客户需求的高质量和创新型产品。
## Fluigent遍及世界各地
Fluigent在全球范围内设有办事处和分销商，其中包括欧洲、北美、亚洲和中东地区，公司70%的营业额通过出口实现。2021年，Fluigent在亚洲市场取得强劲增长，展示了其跨越国界发展的雄心抱负
---
### [公司新闻](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
---
### [公司](https://www.fluigent.com/company/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 关于我们
微流控实验室和业界正致力于研究和开发出达到流体控制水平和精度要求的设备。Fluigent公司是第一家通过引入创新技术（压力泵）来解决这一问题的公司。Fluigent独特的解决方案，可广泛应用于微流控和纳米流控中，从而不仅可以更优的控制性、自动化、精确性、易用性来完全控制流速，还能将污染降到最低。
研究实验室可以将这些现成仪器广泛应用于流体控制至关重要的领域中。
此外，工业公司还可以通过整合Fluigent的技术来增强和改进其产品。
[了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e5%85%ac%e5%8f%b8/about-us/)
## 了解我们的团队
我们的团队成员来自世界各地，拥有不同的背景，每天都热衷于解决各种挑战。了解团队创建产品背后的精彩故事
[了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e5%85%ac%e5%8f%b8/team/)
## 公司新闻
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company newsInsights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics July 16, 2024
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
[
Company newsNavigating Success: A Year in Review at Fluigent – Client Chronicles and Company HighlightsDecember 14, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/a-year-in-review-at-fluigent-2023/)
[
Company newsFluigent: Ambassador for ‘Made in Val-de-Marne’December 1, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-ambassador-for-made-in-val-de-marne/)
[
Company newsAlain’s Experience at MedicaNovember 21, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/medica-2023/)
[
Company newsWelcome Alain Crampon!October 13, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/welcome-alain-crampon/)
[
Company newsMeet Karolina Sobeczek, Fluigent Germany’s Business Development Manager for Eastern EuropeSeptember 28, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/karolina-sobeczek/)
[
Company newsElevating Collaboration and Inspiration: Unforgettable Team Building Event with Breathtaking Paris ViewsJune 27, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/team-building-2023/)
[
Company newsFrance Hamber interview about SLAS EUROPE 2023June 20, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-ceo-slas-europe-2023/)
[
Company newsLet us celebrate the 9th anniversary of FLUIGENT Germany together! May 17, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/9th-anniversary-fluigent-germany/)
[
Product newsDevelopment of an in-vitro eye model with the Flow EZMarch 31, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/in-vitro-eye-model/)
[
Company newsFluigent’s new organ-on-chip platform, OmiMarch 17, 2023
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-omi/)
[
Company newsMicrofluidics & Organ-On-Chips Panel Discussion 2022October 18, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/microfluidics-organ-on-chips-panel-discussion/)
[
Company newsGerman Website LaunchOctober 6, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/german-website-launch/)
[
Company newsJournées du Patrimoine, 2022May 21, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/journees-du-patrimoine-2022/)
[
Company newsFLUIGENT Germany celebrates 8 years!April 29, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-germany-celebrates-8-years/)
[
Company newsThought Leader: France HamberApril 19, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/thought-leader-france-hamber/)
[
Product newsFluigent product ARIA highlighted in last issue of Nature MethodsMarch 18, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-product-aria-highlighted-in-last-issue-of-nature-methods/)
[
Company newsOur CEO, one of the 20 Sup’Excellence laureatesMarch 9, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/our-ceo-one-of-the-20-supexcellence-laureates/)
[
Organ-On-ChipNew Application Notes : A human gut-on-chip modelMarch 4, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-application-notes-a-human-gut-on-chip-model/)
[
Product newsFluigent introduces you the F-OEM SeriesMarch 4, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-introduces-you-the-f-oem-series/)
[
Product newsFluigent product ARIA highlighted in last issue of Nature ProtocolsFebruary 16, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/aria-on-the-cover-of-nature-protocols/)
[
Company newsFluigent, a leader in the growing microfluidics market, is looking for passionate new collaboratorsFebruary 16, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-a-leader-in-the-growing-microfluidics-market-is-looking-for-passionate-new-collaborators/)
[
Product news2022 Research and Industrial product catalogJanuary 12, 2022
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/2022-research-and-industrial-product-catalog/)
[
Company newsIle-de-France exporter of the yearDecember 6, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/ile-de-france-exporter-of-the-year/)
[
Fluigent expertiseDroplet-based microfluidicsNovember 15, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/droplet-based-microfluidics/)
[
Company newsFluigent 15th year anniversary celebrationOctober 22, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-15th-year-anniversary-celebration/)
[
Product newsNew Software | OxyGENOctober 19, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-software-oxygen/)
[
Company newsProudly made in FranceJuly 5, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/proudly-made-in-france/)
[
Company newsLunar New YearFebruary 12, 2021
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/lunar-new-year/)
[
Company newsCOVID-19 updateMarch 20, 2020
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/covid-19-update/)
[
Fluigent expertiseMicrofluidic setup Flow Rate ad Pressure CalculatorOctober 2, 2019
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/microfluidic-setup-flow-rate-ad-pressure-calculator/)
[
Product newsIntroducing Fluigent New 2-SwitchFebruary 4, 2019
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/introducing-fluigent-new-2-switch/)
[
Product newsNew Pressure Based Flow Controller for IndustryDecember 18, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-pressure-based-flow-controller-for-industry/)
[
Company news\[FRENCH\] La start-up qui réinvente l’analyse médicaleAugust 10, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/french-la-start-up-qui-reinvente-lanalyse-medicale/)
[
Company newsFluigent provides automated fldic platfrom to BIOART-Lung 2020 projectJuly 13, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-provides-automated-fldic-platfrom-to-bioart-lung-2020-project/)
[
Product newsSmart Microfluidic has arrivedJune 22, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/smart-microfluidic-has-arrived/)
[
Company newsFluigent is growing!March 8, 2018
Découvrir](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-is-growing/)
[
Product newsFlow EZ™ : the future of microfluidicsApril 27, 2017
Découvrir
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/flow-ez-the-future-of-microfluidics/)
## 公司活动
Fluigent在微流控行业拥有强大的影响力。我们参加了各种重要会议，展示了各种最新的产品和应用。此外，我们还举办自己的微流体研讨会和网络研讨会。
[随时向我通报即将举行的活动](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e5%85%ac%e5%8f%b8/fluigent-newsletter/)
---
### [Fluigent 新闻简报](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigent-newsletter/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
---
### [Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
I Have a Product Inquiry
Talk to an Expert
I Need Support
[ 
Explore our Resources
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/)
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- Support Services
- Other contact
## Customer Service
At Fluigent, we understand that a non-functioning system means time lost in the lab. Fluigent’s customer support team is dedicated to performing timely, cost-effective repairs. Our support ranges from microfluidic advice to device repair to make sure you are back working on your experiments as soon as possible.
If you didn’t find a response from our [FAQ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/ "FAQ"), contact our dedicated team. We guarantee a response in less than 48 hours followed if necessary by a diagnosis through a remote session or on-site visit.
### EUROPE
& REST OF THE WORLD
**Maya Ballet**
support@fluigent.com
Direct Line: +33 6 37 67 56 79
Phone:+33(0)1 7701 8268
### AMERICAS
**James Lazic**h
fluigentinc@fluigent.com
Direct Line: +1 978-926-3307
Phone: +1 978-268-0347
## Sales Support
You are interested in our technologies? You need an advice on your setup? You want to start microfluidics? Send us a message at :
### EUROPE
& REST OF THE WORLD
**Alain Crampon**
contact@fluigent.com
Mobile: +33(0)6 08641242
Phone: +33(0)1 82 39 43 81
### AMERICAS
**Bruno Ribeiro**
fluigentinc@fluigent.com
Mobile: +1 585-285-1912
Phone: +1 978-306-6988
## Other contact
### CUSTOMER SERVICE
FLUIGENT
contact@fluigent.com
Phone: +33(0)1 7701 8268
### GENERAL
Phone: +33(0)1 82 39 43 81
---
---
### [현대 신약 개발 및 테스트에서의 장기온칩 플랫폼 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/organ-on-chip-in-drug-development/)
**Published:** July 10, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 오가노이드, 장기온칩 및 미세생리학적 시스템 간의 차이
미세생리학적 시스템이라는 신 분야를 탐구할 때, 용어를 이해하고 본질적인 차이점을 파악하는 것은 어려울 수 있습니다. 첨단 시험관 내(in vitro) 모델링에는 오가노이드, 장기온칩(OOC) 시스템, 미세생리학적 시스템(MPS)과 같은 여러 상호 보완적인 기술이 포함되며, 각각은 생물학적 및 공학적 복잡성과 응용 분야에서 차이가 있습니다.
그림 1 오가노이드 OOC 및 MPS 간의 차이 AI 생성
### 오가노이드
오가노이드는 내재적 발달 프로그램에서 비롯된 3차원 자체 조직화 줄기세포 유래 미니 장기입니다. 유도만능줄기세포(iPSCs), 배아줄기세포 또는 성체줄기세포에서 생성될 수 있으며, 종종 뇌 오가노이드에서 발견되는 피질층과 같이 조직 특이적 구조를 나타냅니다. 오가노이드는 높은 생물학적 복잡성을 제공하지만 일반적으로 관류(perfusion)가 제한적이며 기계적 자극이 부족합니다.
오가노이드는 종종 스페로이드(spheroids) 및 튜머로이드(tumoroids)와 혼동되지만, 이러한 3D 모델은 서로 다른 수준의 복잡성을 나타내며 별개의 실험 목적을 위해 사용됩니다:
- **스페로이드**는 저접착 조건(예: 행잉 드롭 플레이트, 초저접착 플레이트 또는 스너 배양)에서 자체 조립되는 하나 이상의 세포 유형으로 구성된 단순한 3D 응집체입니다. 고통량 약물 스크리닝에 널리 사용됩니다.
- **튜머로이드**는 환자 유래 종양 오가노이드로, 1차 종양 조직에서 생성된 오가노이드의 전문화된 하위 집합입니다. 이들은 종양 이질성, 유전자 변이를 보존하며, 경우에 따라 미세환경적 특징도 유지하여 정밀 종양학(precision oncology)에 가치 있는 도구입니다 \[1\].
[*오가노이드 모델링에 대해 더 알아보고, 정적 배양에서 동적 배양으로 전환하는 방법을 확인하세요.* ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/ "오가노이드 모델링에 대해 더 알아보고, 정적 배양에서 동적 배양으로 전환하는 방법을 확인하세요. ")
### 장기온칩 (Organ-on-Chip)
장기온칩 장치는 인간 세포, 제어된 미세유체 흐름 및 기계적 단서를 결합하여 장기 수준의 구조, 기능 및 미세환경적 힘을 재현하는 미세공학 시스템입니다. 오가노이드에 비해 OOC는 영양분 공급, 노폐물 제거 및 전단 응력(shear stress), 호흡 운동 또는 연동운동과 같은 동적 생리학적 조건 재현을 위해 흐름 제어에 크게 의존합니다.
### 미세생리학적 시스템 (Microphysiological Systems, MPS)
미세생리학적 시스템(MPS)은 조직, 장기 또는 다중 장기 규모에서 인간 생리학적 기능을 재현하는 모든 시험관 내(in vitro) 모델을 포괄하는 총칭입니다. MPS에는 다음이 포함됩니다:
- 장기온칩 시스템
- 오가노이드
- 관류되는 튜머로이드 또는 스페로이드
- 합성 바이오 프린팅 미세조직
- 정적 트랜스웰 공동배양
- 다중 장기 “바디온칩(body-on-chip)” 플랫폼
### MPS의 복잡성 계층 구조
첨단 시험관 내 모델은 기본 3D 배양에서 시작하여 인간 생리학을 더 밀접하게 재현하는 동적 미세공학 시스템으로 진행되는 광범위한 복잡성 펙트럼을 포괄합니다.
**스페로이드 → 튜머로이드 → 오가노이드 → 장기온칩 → 완전한 미세생리학적 시스템**
*그림 2 시험관 내 시스템의 복잡성*
**특징** **스페로이드****튜머로이드** **오가노이드****장기온칩** ******3D 구조****** 단순 구형 환자 유래 구조 장기 유사 공학적 미세환경 ******세포 공급원****** 세포주/혼합 1차 종양 줄기세포 1차 또는 iPSC 유래 ******구조****** 최소 종양 특이적 조직 특이적 장치 정의 ******관류****** ❌ 없음 ❌ 없음 ❌ 없음 (하이브리드 제외) ✅ 제어됨******기계적 힘****** ❌ 없음 ❌ 없음 ❌ 없음 ✅ 생리학적 ******약물 테스트****** 중규모 환자 특이적 질병 특이적 기계적 PK/PD ******전단 응력****** ❌ 없음 ❌ 없음 ❌ 최소 완전 조정 가능 ******개인화****** 낮음 매우 높음 높음 중간~높음 **재현성** 양호 중간 중간~높음 높음 ## 신약 개발 및 테스트에서 동물 모델의 한계
신약 개발은 여전히 잘 알려진 ‘번역 격차(translation gap)’에 직면해 있습니다. 즉, 쥐 모델에서의 유망한 전임상 결과가 인간 임상 시험에서는 재현되지 않는 현상입니다. 대부분의 실패는 후보 물질이 동물 연구에서 인간 시험으로 넘어갈 때 효능 부족이나 예상치 못한 독성 때문에 발생합니다 \[3\]. 또한, 동물 실험 감축을 위한 FDA의 2025년 로드맵은 알츠하이머병 및 염증성 질환과 같은 분야에서 동물 기반 데이터가 성공 예측 인자로 특히 부적합했음을 강조합니다 \[4\].
주요 한계 중 하나는 화합물이 동물에게는 안전해 보이지만 인간에게는 심각한 해를 끼칠 수 있다는 점입니다. 이는 종 간에 대사, 면역 반응, 수용체 생물학 및 조직 감수성이 현저히 다르기 때문입니다. 잘 문서화된 사례로는 항바이러스제인 피알루리딘(FIAU)이 있습니다. 이 약물은 동물 실험을 통과했지만 인간 임상 시험에서 치명적인 간부전과 젖산 산증(lactic acidosis)을 유발했습니다 \[5\].
### 반대 시나리오: 위음성(False Negatives)
반대로, 특정 동물 종에서의 독성 때문에 잠재적으로 효과적인 약물이 잘못 거부되는 경우도 발생합니다. 고전적인 사례는 페니실린으로, 인간에게는 안전하고 생명을 구하는 약이지만 기니피그에게는 치명적일 수 있습니다 \[6\]. 이러한 ‘위음성’ 사례는 인간 안전 결정을 solely 동물 반응에만 근거할 때 내재된 위험을 보여줍니다.
### 인간 질병 메커니즘 모델링
안전성 평가를 넘어, 동물 모델은 질병에 대한 초기 기계론적 이해에도 영향을 미치며, 이는 표적 식별 및 신약 발견 전략을 형성합니다. 그러나 인간의 질병 생물학이 동물에서 관찰된 것과 크게 다를 경우, 전체 발견 프로그램이 오해의 소지가 있는 가정에 기반하여 구축될 수 있습니다. 대표적인 사례가 알츠하이머병(AD)입니다. 수십 년간의 쥐 연구는 임상적 이점으로 일관되게 연결되지 않는 기계론적 가설을 만들어냈습니다 \[2\]. 최근 연구 리뷰들은 현재 쥐 모델들이 알츠하이머병의 임상적 이질성을 자주 포착하지 못하며, 많은 모델들이 인간에서 주로 불규칙한 질병 부담과 비교했을 때 가족성 돌연변이 주도 메커니즘을 과도하게 대표한다고 주장합니다 \[7\].
**그림 3 알츠하이머병 모델 및 비교 일러스트레이션 8**
## 약물 테스트를 위해 장기온칩 기술이 제공하는 향상된 인간 관련성
OOAC(장기온칩) 분야의 최근 분석에 따르면, 단일 및 다중 장기 칩은 복잡한 질병을 모델링하고, 임상 약물 반응의 측면을 재현하며, 기존 모델이 놓치는 인간 특이적 생물학을 포착할 수 있습니다 \[9\]. 그러나 이러한 전환은 FDA 현대화법 2.0(FDA Modernization Act 2.0, 2022)과 같은 지원 정책 변화를 따르고 있으며, 완전한 규제 및 업계 채택을 위해서는 몇 가지 과제가 해결되어야 합니다. 이는 의무적인 동물 실험 대신 비동물 방법을 사용할 수 있도록 허용한 미국의 첫 번째 입법입니다 \[10\].
OOC는 정적 2D 배양 시스템에서는 달성할 수 없는 공학적 미세환경을 제공합니다. 접시 기반 assays와 달리, 장기온칩은 현실적인 장기 기능에 필수적인 생리학적 조건을 유지할 수 있습니다. 이는 다음을 포함합니다:
- 3D 구조 또는 3D 유사 조직화 공동배양
- [영양분 공급](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/ "영양분 공급"), 노폐물 제거 및 조직 수준 약동학을 위한 지속적 관류
- 제어된 생화학적 구배(산소, 사이토카인, 약물)
- 기능적 조직-조직 인터페이스(예: 상피-내피)
- 동적 기계적 힘([전단 응력](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/ "전단 응력"), 기계적 압축/스트레칭)
OOC는 생리학적으로 관련성 있는 기계적 및 생화학적 단서 하에서 인간 세포를 활용하므로, 종 특이적 생물학과 같은 동물 실험의 주요 실패 지점을 극복하는 것을 목표로 합니다.
OOAC/MPS 시스템의 “인간 우위”에 대한 가장 명확한 증거 중 일부는 종양학 및 면역종양학 분야에서 나옵니다. 여기서 목표는 독성 테스트뿐만 아니라 환자 특이적 치료 반응을 예측하는 것입니다. 최근 리뷰들은 미세생리학적 시스템이 혈관, 기질 상호작용 및 면역 구성 요소를 포함하는 인간 종양 미세환경의 요소를 재현하여, 동물 모델이나 정적 배양에서는 실현하기 어려운 방식으로 면역요법 및 종양-면역 역학을 평가할 수 있다고 강조합니다 \[11\].
## 신약 개발 및 테스트 파이프라인에서의 장기온칩
신약 개발은 아래 그림에 설명된 대로 표적 검증부터 임상 시험 및 최종 승인에 이르는 전통적인 파이프라인을 통해 볼 수 있듯, 길고 비용이 많이 들며 실패하기 쉬운 과정입니다. 각 단계에서 수천 개의 약물 후보군이 점차 필터링되어 소수만이 인간 시험에 진입하고, 극소수만이 시장에 출시됩니다. 제약 R&D가 인간 관련 전임상 방법으로 전환함에 따라, 장기온칩 시스템은 신약 개발 파이프라인의 여러 단계에 점점 더 통합되고 있습니다. 그 가치는 인간 생물학과 실시간 분석을 결합하여 오랜 번역적 과제를 해결하는 데 독특하게 적합하다는 데 있습니다. OOC는 전통적인 동물 연구가 종종 놓치는 ADME(흡수, 분포, 대사, 배설), 독성 및 질병 모델링에서 인간 특이적 반응을 재현할 수 있습니다 \[9\].
**그림 4 약물 테스트 파이프라인**
### 초기 발견: 질병 모델링 및 표적 식별
신약 개발의 가장 초기 단계에서 연구자들은 질병 메커니즘을 이해하고 처리 가능한 약물 표적을 식별하려고 합니다. OOC는 제어된 미세환경 조건 하에서 인간 병태생리학을 모델링함으로써 이러한 통찰력을 가능하게 합니다.
이 단계에서 OOC의 추가 가치는 염증, 저산소증, 기계적 스트레스 또는 조절 장애된 장벽 기능과 같은 질병 특이적 단서를 재현할 수 있는 능력입니다. 인간 중심 모델은 특히 iPSC 유래 세포나 1차 환자 세포를 파종할 때 환자 이질성을 더 잘 반영합니다. 예를 들어, 종양온칩 모델은 전이 행동 및 약물 저항 메커니즘을 포함하는 3D 종양 미세환경을 재현합니다. 또한 염증성 장질환(IBD), 장벽 기능 장애 및 마이크로바이옴 상호작용과 같이 인간으로부터 정확한 기계론적 반응이 필요한 질병은 장온칩(gut-on-chip) 기술을 사용하여 모델링할 수 있습니다.
### 리드 최적화: 시험관 내 ADME 및 약동학
표적이 식별되면, 리드 화합물은 흡수, 분포, 대사 및 배설(ADME)에 대해 스크리닝되어야 합니다. 이때 다중 장기 OOC 플랫폼이 두각을 나타냅니다.
- 이들은 인간 유사 PK(약동학) 궤적을 재현하는 장-간-신장과 같은 연결된 장기 시스템을 지원합니다.
- 제어된 흐름은 약물 노출의 정밀한 조절을 가능하게 하여 농도-시간 곡선의 더 정확한 예측을 가능하게 합니다.
- 장기온칩은 임상 결과와 상관관계가 있는 대사체 프로파일링과 같은 인간 관련 지표를 생성할 수 있습니다.
예를 들어, 간-신장 미세유체 루프는 담즙 배출 및 신장 배설을 시뮬레이션합니다. 여러 연구에서는 OOC가 경구 흡수율 및 약물-약물 상호작용 예측을 포함하여 쥐 모델보다 인간 PK 행동을 더 정확하게 재현할 수 있음을 입증했습니다 \[9\].
### 전임상 안전성 평가: 독성학 및 오프-타겟 효과
독성은 임상 시험 실패의 가장 흔한 원인입니다. OOC 플랫폼은 동물 또는 임상 시험 전에 인간 특이적 독성 효과를.flagging(식별)하는 데 탁월합니다. 이는 인간 세포 조건 하에서 장기 특이적 독성 assays를 허용합니다. 예를 들어, 3D 소엽 구조를 갖춘 간 칩은 간 대사 동안 약물-약물 상호작용 독성을 연구하는 데 사용되었습니다. 다중 장기 시스템은 온-타겟 및 오프-타겟 독성을 동시에 모니터링할 수 있습니다. 한 설계는 간 칩과 심장 칩을 바이오센서와 통합하여 대사된 암 약물이 간독성과 심장독성을 모두 유발한다는 것을 보여주었습니다.
이러한 칩 테스트는 동물 연구에서 보이지 않았던 독성 liabilities를 올바르게 식별했습니다. 중요하게도, 인간 OOC는 동물이 놓치는 부작용(예: 임상적으로 관찰된 심장 또는 신장 독성)을 드러낼 수 있습니다. 따라서 OOC는 임상 시험 전에 인간 특이적 독성을 가진 후보군을 걸러내는 후기 전임상 안전성 평가 도구로构想됩니다.
### 번역적 PK/PD 및 정밀 의학
OOC는 개인 환자 반응을 예측하고 emerging field인 맞춤형 의학을 지원하는 데 특히 유망합니다. 이들은 종양 생검 및 ex-vivo 미세조직 테스트를 포함하여 환자 유래 세포의 사용을 허용합니다. 이러한 시스템은 여러 치료 요법을 ex vivo에서 테스트하는 데 사용될 수 있습니다. 예를 들어, SliceChip 설정은 마우스 췌장 섬의 장기 배양을 가능하게 했으며, 두 챔버 모두에서 비교 가능한 포도당 동역학과 낮은 전단 응력을 제공했고, 세포 외 전기생리학 및 인슐린 분비 분석을 결합할 수 있게 했습니다. 제어된 관류는 포도당 및 아미노산 자극 테스트를 가능하게 하여, 이 시스템을 당뇨병 약물 개발에 관련성 있게 만들었습니다.
## 신약 개발에서 장기온칩 채택을 위한 규제 및 정책 환경
글로벌 규제 환경은 인간 관련성 높은 비동물 테스트 방법으로 역사적인 전환을 겪고 있으며, OOC 플랫폼은 이 변환의 중심에 있습니다. OOC가 아직 동물 연구를 완전히 대체하지는 않지만, 법적 및 정책 환경은 이제 신약 개발 및 테스트 파이프라인으로의 통합을 강력히 권장합니다.
### 미국: 비동물 테스트로의 정책 모멘텀
최근 미국의 입법 및 FDA 조치는 MPS(OOC 포함)로의 전환을 가속화했습니다. 2022년 12월 29일에 서명된 \*\*FDA 현대화법 2.0(FDA Modernization Act 2.0)\*\*은 약물 스폰서가 전임상 안전 기준을 충족하기 위해 동물 실험에 의존해야 한다는 수십 년 된 요구 사항을 제거합니다 \[12\]. 이 법률 하에서, OOC, 오가노이드, iPSC 유래 조직 및 계산 모델을 포함한 \*\*새로운 접근 방법론(NAMs, New Approach Methodologies)\*\*은 전임상 안전성 및 효능 데이터 생성을 위해 명시적으로 허용됩니다. 이 법안을 시행하기 위해 FDA는 2022년 NAMs 프로그램을 설립하여 비동물 기술을 평가하고 자격을 부여하기 위해 직원, 인프라 및 자금을 투입했습니다.
**신약을 위한 혁신적 과학 및 기술 접근법(ISTAND)** 프로그램은 특정 규제 사용 맥락에서 새로운 방법론의 자격을 얻도록 설계되었습니다. 2024년의 조치 중 하나는 약물 유발 간 손상(DILI)을 예측하도록 설계된 장기온칩 기술의 수용이었습니다 \[13\].
2025년, FDA는 단클론항체 및 기타 치료제의 동물 실험 요구 사항을 단계적으로 폐지하는 다년간 계획을 공개적으로 발표하며 다음과 같이 명시했습니다:
“첨단 세포 기반 모델, 오가노이드 및 장기온칩 시스템은 전임상 개발 내에서 과학적으로 정당화된 대안으로 통합될 것입니다.” — FDA 보도자료, 2025 \[14\]
이 로드맵은 스폰서가 사용 맥락별 자격 획득, 기존 assays와의 교차 검증 및 OOC 생성 안전 데이터 제출 증가로 시작하여 전임상 패키지의 일부로 OOC를 통합하기 위한 단계별 전략을 제공합니다.
### 유럽 연합: 비동물 접근법으로의 전환 가속화
EU는 오랫동안 윤리적이고 과학적으로 견고한 동물 실험 대안 발전을 선도해 왔습니다. 규제 기관들은 연구 및 안전 평가에서 동물 사용 퇴출을 위한 장기 전략의 일환으로 OOC, 오가노이드 및 MPS의 통합을 점점 더 촉진하고 있습니다. 유럽 법령은 동물 실험의 대체(Replacement), 감소(Reduction) 및 개선(Refinement)인 **3Rs 원칙**을 의무화합니다. 이 법적 기반은 장기온칩 시스템을 포함한 새로운 접근 방법론(NAMs)을 통합하기 위한 EU 차원의 이니셔티브를 뒷받침합니다.
2021년, 유럽 의회는 과학, 농업 및 규제 안전에서 동물 실험을 제거하기 위한 조정된 EU 수준 로드맵을 촉구하는 결의안을 통과시켰습니다.
이 지침은 다음의 신속한 채택을 촉구했습니다:
- 미세생리학적 시스템
- 오가노이드
- 시험관 내 NAMs
- 첨단 계산 모델링
2023년 말, 유럽 의약품청(EMA)은 안전성 테스트 및 3Rs 방법에 대한 규제 가이드라인 업데이트를 제안하는 개념 논문을 발행했습니다. 이 문서는 OOC와 오가노이드를 NAM 기반 제출을 위한 후보 플랫폼으로 명시적으로 언급합니다.
EMA는 또한 다음을 지원합니다:
- NAM 개발자를 안내하기 위한 과학적 조언 회의
- MPS 및 OOC assays를 위한 자발적 자격 경로
- 글로벌 수용을 장려하기 위한 국제 기관과의 규제 정렬
2025년, 유럽 제약 산업 협회 연합(EFPIA)은 다음을 권장하는 전략 문서를 발표했습니다:
- NAM 채택을 위한 규제 인센티브
- EMA, FDA 및 PMDA 간의 조화
동물 실험으로부터의 전환을 가속화하기 위한 업데이트된 가이드라인
## 미래 전망
앞으로 장기온칩 분야는 의미 있는 변환기를 겪고 있습니다. 그러나 3Rs 프레임워크나 현재 입법이 긴 신약 개발 여정에서 동물 모델이 오늘날 완전히 대체되고 있음을 의미하지는 않는다는 점을 강조하는 것이 중요합니다. OOC 및 기타 NAMs는 이미 신약 개발에서 동물 모델과 함께 사용되고 있는 강력하지만 보완적인 도구를 나타냅니다. 규제 모멘텀과 기술 성숙도는 이제 더 광범위한 OOC 채택을 점점 더 실현 가능하게 만들기 위해 수렴하고 있습니다.
압력 기반 흐름 시스템 전문 지식으로, 우리는 장기온칩의 성공이 단순히 공학적 우수성 이상에 달려 있음을 매일 목격합니다. 이는 제약사, 학술 연구자, 규제 기관 및 기술 제공업체 간의 일관된 협력을 통해 지원되는 다중 장기 통합 및 자동화를 필요로 합니다. 이러한 협력 생태계는 OOC가 혁신적인 연구 장치에서 전임상 워크플로우의 표준 구성 요소로 얼마나 빠르게 진화할지를 결정할 것입니다.
미래를 형성하는 주요 힘 중 하나는 전신 미세생리학적 시스템(whole-body microphysiological systems)으로의 전환입니다. 장, 간, 신장, 혈관 및 면역 모듈을 연결하면 인간 전신 반응을 더 잘 반영하는 방식으로 약물 ADME를 연구할 수 있습니다. 동시에, 향후 10년은 분명히 자동화 및 산업화를 향한 결정적인 추진력을 가져올 것입니다. 장기온칩 관류, 실시간 모니터링 및 표준화된 칩 형식은 재현 가능하고 GLP(우수실험실관리기준) 준비가 된 워크플로우를 가능하게 할 것입니다. 운영 복잡성을 줄임으로써, 자동화는 제약 팀이 발견, ADME 테스트 및 전임상 독성학에 OOC를 통합하는 장벽을 낮추어, 제약 채택에 필요한 예측 가능성과 견고성을 제공합니다.
마지막으로, 아마도 가장 중요한 동인은 규제 채택입니다. FDA 현대화법 2.0, NAMs 프로그램, ISTAND 및 EMA 내의 병렬 발전은 새로운 규제 시대의 공식적인 시작을 표시합니다. 이러한 정책은 동물 실험을 제거하지 않지만, 제출물에 OOC 데이터를 포함하고 정의된 사용 맥락에 대해 칩 기반 assays를 검증하기 위한 명확한 경로를 수립합니다.
진화하는 환경에서 산업계와 학계에 대한 조언은 명확합니다: 대상 영역에서 OOC 통합을 시작하십시오. 내부 전문성을 구축하고, 비교 데이터셋을 생성하며, 검증 노력에 참여하십시오. 신약 개발의 미래는 어느 한 이해관계자에 의해 형성되는 것이 아니라, 동물 모델 의존도를 줄이고 인간 관련성을 높이라는 공통 목표를 공유하는 생물학자, 엔지니어, 규제 기관 및 기술 개발자 간의 집단적 정렬에 의해 형성될 것입니다.
Fluigent의 정밀 압력 기반 흐름 시스템은 장기 연구를 위한 신뢰할 수 있고 자동화된 관류를 통해 장기온칩 연구를 지원해 왔습니다. 워크플로우에 OOC를 통합하는 것을 고려하고 있다면,
**[저희에게 연락하여](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/ "저희에게 연락하여")** 설정을 어떻게 지원할 수 있는지 논의하세요.
## 관련 제품
- [
### 정밀 유체 제어를 위한 미세유체 솔루션
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
## 관련 전문 지식
- [
### 오간온어칩 연구에서의 압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
- [
### 왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 미세유체에서의 흐름 제어 기술: 신뢰할 수 있는 결과를 위한 적절한 펌프 선택
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
- [
### 첨단 오가노이드 모델링에서 마이크로유체공학의 역할: 정적 환경에서 동적 환경으로
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 고유량제어를위한미세유체
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
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\[9\] D. E. Ingber, “Human organs-on-chips for disease modelling, drug development and personalized medicine,” *Nat Rev Genet*, vol. 23, no. 8, pp. 467–491, Aug. 2022, doi: 10.1038/s41576-022-00466-9.
\[10\] C. M. Leung *et al.*, “A guide to the organ-on-a-chip,” *Nat Rev Methods Primers*, vol. 2, no. 1, p. 33, May 2022, doi: 10.1038/s43586-022-00118-6.
\[11\] A. Y. Peng and B. E. Lee, “Microphysiological Systems for Cancer Immunotherapy Research and Development,” *Adv Biol (Weinh)*, vol. 8, no. 8, p. e2300077, Aug. 2024, doi: 10.1002/adbi.202300077.
\[12\] J. J. Han, “FDA Modernization Act 2.0 allows for alternatives to animal testing,” *Artif Organs*, vol. 47, no. 3, pp. 449–450, Mar. 2023, doi: 10.1111/aor.14503.
\[13\] C. for D. E. and Research, “FDA’s ISTAND Pilot Program accepts a submission of first organ-on-a-chip technology designed to predict human drug-induced liver injury (DILI),” *FDA*, Sep. 2025, Accessed: Feb. 09, 2026. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fdas-istand-pilot-program-accepts-submission-first-organ-chip-technology-designed-predict-human-drug
\[14\] O. of the Commissioner, “FDA Announces Plan to Phase Out Animal Testing Requirement for Monoclonal Antibodies and Other Drugs,” FDA. Accessed: Feb. 09, 2026. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-announces-plan-phase-out-animal-testing-requirement-monoclonal-antibodies-and-other-drugs
---
### [现代药物开发与测试中的器官芯片平台 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/微流体博客/organ-on-chip-in-drug-development/)
**Published:** July 9, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 类器官、器官芯片与微生理系统的区别
在探索微生理系统这一新兴领域时，理清专业术语并理解它们之间的核心区别往往是一个挑战。先进的体外建模包含了几种互补的技术，如类器官（organoids）、器官芯片（OOC）系统和微生理系统（MPS），它们在生物学复杂性、工程学复杂性以及应用场景上各不相同。
图1类器官器官芯片与微生理系统MPS的区别AI生成
### 类器官（Organoids）
类器官是三维、自组织的、由干细胞衍生的微型器官，其形成基于细胞内在的发育程序。它们可以由诱导多能干细胞（iPSCs）、胚胎干细胞或成体干细胞培养而成，通常展现出组织特异性的结构，例如脑类器官中存在的皮层结构。类器官提供了极高的生物学复杂性，但通常灌流能力有限，且缺乏机械刺激。
类器官经常与细胞球（spheroids）和肿瘤类器官（tumoroids）混淆，尽管这些3D模型代表着不同程度的复杂性并服务于不同的实验目的：
- 细胞球（Spheroids）是由一种或多种细胞类型组成的简单3D聚集体，在低粘附条件（例如悬滴培养板、超低吸附板或旋转培养）下自组装形成。它们被广泛应用于高通量药物筛选。
- 肿瘤类器官（Tumoroids）源自患者个体肿瘤，是由原发性肿瘤组织培养而成的类器官的一个特定亚群。它们保留了肿瘤的异质性、基因突变，有时还保留了微环境特征，这使得它们在精准肿瘤学中极具价值 \[1\]。
[了解更多关于类器官建模的信息，以及如何从静态培养转向动态培养。 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/ "了解更多关于类器官建模的信息，以及如何从静态培养转向动态培养。 ")
### 器官芯片（Organ-on-Chip）
器官芯片设备是微工程系统，它将人类细胞、受控的微流控流体和机械线索结合在一起，以重现器官水平的结构、功能和微环境受力。与类器官相比，器官芯片高度依赖流体控制来进行营养物质输送、废物清除，以及重现如剪切应力、呼吸运动或肠道蠕动等动态生理条件。
### 微生理系统（Microphysiological Systems, MPS）
微生理系统（MPS）是一个统称，涵盖所有能在组织、器官或多器官尺度上重现人体生理功能的体外模型。
- 器官芯片系统
- 类器官（Organoids）
- 可灌注的肿瘤类器官或细胞球
- 合成的生物3D打印微组织
- 静态Transwell共培养模型
- 多器官的“人体芯片（body-on-chip）”平台
### MPS的复杂性层级
先进体外模型跨越了广泛的复杂性谱系，从基础的3D培养开始，逐步向能更真实重现人体生理的动态微工程系统发展。
**细胞球 → 肿瘤类器官 → 类器官 → 器官芯片 → 完整的微生理系统**
*图2体外系统的复杂性*
**特征** **细胞球** **肿瘤类器官** **类器官** **器官芯片** ****3D结构**** 简单球体 源自患者的结构 类器官结构 工程化微环境 ****细胞来源**** 细胞系/混合 原发肿瘤 干细胞 原代细胞或iPSC衍生 ****架构**** 极简 肿瘤特异性 组织特异性 设备定义 ****灌流**** ❌ 无 ❌ 无 ❌ 无（除非混合模型） ✅ 受控 ****机械力**** ❌ 无 ❌ 无 ❌ 无 ✅ 生理级 ****药物测试**** 中通量 患者特异性 疾病特异性 机制性PK/PD ****剪切应力**** ❌ 无 ❌ 无 ❌ 极小 完全可调 ****个性化程度**** 低 极高 高 中等-高 **可重复性** 良好 中等 中等-高 高 ## 药物开发与测试中动物模型的局限性
药物开发持续面临着一个众所周知的转化鸿沟：在啮齿类动物模型中令人鼓舞的临床前结果，往往无法在人体临床试验中重现。当候选药物从动物研究进入人体测试阶段时，大多数失败是由于疗效不足或出现了意料之外的毒性 \[3\]。此外，FDA在2025年关于减少动物测试的路线图中也强调，在阿尔茨海默病和炎症性疾病等领域，基于动物的数据在预测临床成功率方面表现得尤为糟糕 \[4\]。
一个关键的局限性在于，某种化合物在动物身上可能显得安全，但却对人体造成严重伤害，这是因为不同物种之间的代谢、免疫反应、受体生物学和组织易感性存在显著差异。一个记录详实的例子是非阿尿苷（FIAU），这是一种抗病毒化合物，它顺利通过了动物测试，但在人体试验中却引起了致命的肝功能衰竭和乳酸酸中毒 \[5\]。
### 相反的情境：假阴性
反之亦然，也会出现相反的问题：某些潜在有效的药物，可能会因为在特定动物物种中表现出毒性而被错误地淘汰。一个经典的案例是青霉素，它对人类来说是安全且能挽救生命的，但对豚鼠却是致命的 \[6\]。这些“假阴性”说明了仅凭动物的反应来做出人类用药安全决策的内在风险。
### 人类疾病机制建模
除了安全性评估之外，动物模型还会影响我们对疾病早期机制的理解，进而塑造靶点识别和药物发现策略。然而，当人类疾病生物学与在动物身上观察到的情况存在巨大差异时，整个药物发现项目都可能建立在误导性的假设之上。一个著名的案例是阿尔茨海默病（AD）：数十年的小鼠研究产生了许多机制假说，但这些假说并不能持续转化为临床效益 \[2\]。最近的研究综述指出，目前的小鼠模型经常无法捕捉到阿尔茨海默病的临床异质性，并且与人类中主要为散发性的疾病负担相比，许多模型过度代表了由家族性突变驱动的发病机制 \[7\]。
图3阿尔茨海默病模型的插图与比较
## 为什么器官芯片技术能为药物测试提供更好的人体相关性
近期对器官芯片领域的分析表明，单器官和多器官芯片能够模拟复杂的疾病，重现部分临床药物反应，并捕捉到传统模型所忽略的人体特异性生物学特征。然而，在实现全面的监管和行业采纳之前，还需克服几项挑战。这一转变正紧随支持性政策的变化而来，例如2022年的《FDA现代化法案2.0》，这是美国首部允许使用非动物替代方法取代强制性动物测试的立法 \[10\]。
器官芯片提供了静态2D培养系统无法实现的工程化微环境。与基于培养皿的检测不同，器官芯片可以维持实现真实器官功能所必需的生理条件，包括：
- 3D结构或类3D组织的共培养
- [用于营养输送](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/ "用于营养输送")、废物清除及组织层面药代动力学的连续灌流
- 受控的生化梯度（氧气、细胞因子、药物）
- 功能性组织-组织界面（如上皮-内皮界面）
- 动态机械力（[剪切应力](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/ "剪切应力")、机械压缩/拉伸）
由于器官芯片在生理相关的机械和生化线索下利用人类细胞，它们旨在克服动物测试的关键失败点，例如物种特异性生物学差异。
在肿瘤学和免疫肿瘤学领域，能够最清晰地展示器官芯片/微生理系统的“人类优势”。在这里，其目标不仅仅是毒性测试，还包括预测特定患者的治疗反应。近期的综述强调了微生理系统如何重现人类肿瘤微环境的关键元素，包括血管系统、基质相互作用和免疫成分，从而以动物模型或静态培养无法实现的方式来评估免疫疗法和肿瘤-免疫动力学 \[11\]。
## 器官芯片在药物开发与测试管线中的应用
药物开发是一个漫长、昂贵且极易失败的过程，正如下方图表所示，该图概述了从靶点验证、临床测试到最终获批的传统管线。在每一个阶段，成千上万的候选药物被逐步筛选，最终只有极少数能进入人体试验，能上市的更是寥寥无几。随着制药研发逐渐向与人体高度相关的临床前方法转变，器官芯片系统正在越来越多地被整合到药物开发管线的多个阶段中。它们的价值在于将人类生物学与实时分析相结合，使其独特地适用于解决长期存在的转化难题。器官芯片可以在ADME、毒性测试和疾病建模方面重现人体特异性反应，而这些往往是传统动物研究容易忽略的 \[9\]。
图4药物测试管线
### 早期发现：疾病建模与靶点识别
在药物开发的最早阶段，研究人员致力于理解疾病机制并寻找可操作的药物靶点。器官芯片通过在受控的微环境条件下模拟人类病理生理学，帮助研究人员获取这些洞察。
器官芯片在此阶段的附加价值在于，能够重现疾病特异性线索，如炎症、缺氧、机械应激或屏障功能失调。尤其是当植入iPSC衍生的细胞或患者原代细胞时，以人类为中心的模型能更好地反映患者的异质性。例如，肿瘤芯片模型能够复制3D肿瘤微环境，包括转移行为和耐药机制；而对于需要精确人类机制反应的疾病，如炎症性肠病（IBD）、屏障功能障碍及微生物群落相互作用等，则可以使用肠道芯片技术进行建模。
### 候选化合物优化：体外ADME与药代动力学
一旦确定了靶点，就必须筛选候选化合物的吸收、分布、代谢和排泄（ADME）特性。这正是多器官芯片平台脱颖而出的地方。
- 它们支持互联的器官系统，例如“肠-肝-肾”连接，从而重现类似人体的药代动力学（PK）轨迹。
- 受控的流体允许对药物暴露进行精确调节，从而能更准确地预测浓度-时间曲线。
- 器官芯片可以产生与临床发现相关的人体相关指标，如代谢物谱分析。
例如，肝-肾微流控循环回路可以模拟胆汁清除和肾脏排泄。多项研究表明，器官芯片在重现人体PK行为方面比啮齿类动物模型更准确，包括对口服吸收率和药物-药物相互作用的预测。
### 临床前安全性评估：毒理学与脱靶效应
毒性问题仍然是临床试验失败最常见的原因。器官芯片平台非常擅长在进行动物或临床测试之前，标记出人体特异性的毒性作用。它们允许在人类细胞条件下进行针对特定器官的毒性分析。例如，具有3D小叶结构的肝脏芯片已被用于研究肝脏代谢过程中的药物相互作用毒性。多器官系统可以同时监测在靶和脱靶毒性：一项设计将肝脏和心脏芯片与生物传感器整合在一起，证明了某种代谢后的抗癌药物同时引起了肝毒性和心脏毒性。这种芯片测试准确识别出了在动物研究中未被发现的潜在毒性风险。重要的是，人类器官芯片能够揭示动物无法表现出的不良反应（如临床观察到的心脏或肾脏毒性）。因此，器官芯片被设想为晚期临床前安全性评估的工具，在进入临床试验前筛除具有人体特异性毒性的候选药物。
### 转化PK/PD与精准医疗
器官芯片在预测个体患者反应方面极具潜力，有力支持了新兴的个性化医疗领域。它们允许使用源自患者的细胞，包括肿瘤活检和体外微组织测试。这些系统可用于在体外测试多种治疗方案。例如，SliceChip 装置实现了小鼠胰岛的长期培养，在两个培养室中均保持了相当的葡萄糖动力学和低剪切应力，并允许结合进行细胞外电生理和胰岛素分泌分析。受控灌流技术能够测试葡萄糖和氨基酸刺激，使得该系统非常适用于糖尿病药物开发。
## 器官芯片在药物开发应用中的监管与政策环境
全球监管环境正经历着向采用人体相关、非动物测试方法的历史性转变，而器官芯片平台正是这场变革的核心。尽管器官芯片目前还不能完全取代动物研究，但现行的法律和政策环境已强烈鼓励将其纳入药物开发与测试管线中。
### 美国：迈向非动物测试的政策势头
最近美国的立法和FDA的行动加速了向微生理系统（包括器官芯片）的过渡。于2022年12月29日签署的《FDA现代化法案2.0》取消了数十年来要求药物申办方必须依赖动物测试来满足临床前安全标准的硬性规定 \[12\]。根据该法案，明确允许使用新方法学（NAMs），包括器官芯片、类器官、iPSC衍生组织以及计算模型，来生成临床前安全性和有效性数据。为实施该法案，FDA于2022年成立了NAMs项目，配置专职人员、基础设施和资金用于评估和认证非动物技术。
新药创新科技方法（ISTAND）项目旨在为特定监管使用场景下的新型方法学提供认证。在2024年的一项行动中，接受了旨在预测药物性肝损伤（DILI）的器官芯片技术\[13\]。
在2025年，FDA公开宣布了一项多年计划，旨在逐步取消对单克隆抗体及其他疗法的动物测试要求，并明确指出：
先进的基于细胞的模型、类器官和器官芯片系统将被作为科学合理的替代方案纳入临床前开发中。”
——FDA 2025年新闻稿\[14\]
这一路线图为申办方将器官芯片作为临床前资料的一部分提供了一个逐步实施的策略：从特定使用场景的资格认证开始，到与现有检测方法的交叉验证，再到增加器官芯片安全性数据的提交。
### 欧盟：加速向非动物方法转变
欧盟长期以来在推动符合伦理且科学严谨的动物测试替代方案方面处于领导地位。监管机构日益推动器官芯片、类器官和MPS的整合，将其作为逐步淘汰研究和安全性评估中动物使用长期战略的一部分。欧洲立法强制执行动物实验的“替代、减少和优化”（3Rs）原则。这一法律基础支撑了全欧盟范围内引入包括器官芯片系统在内的新方法学倡议。
2021年，欧洲议会通过了一项决议，呼吁制定一个协调一致的欧盟层面路线图，以消除在科学、农业和监管安全性中的动物测试。
该指令敦促快速采用：
- 微生理系统（Microphysiological Systems, MPS）
- 类器官（Organoids）
- 体外新方法学（NAMs）
- 先进计算建模
在2023年底，欧洲药品管理局（EMA）发布了一份概念文件，提议更新安全性测试和3Rs方法的监管指南。
EMA进一步支持：
- 旨在指导NAM开发者的科学咨询会议
- 针对MPS和器官芯片检测的自愿认证途径
- 与国际机构在监管上保持一致，以鼓励全球认可
在2025年，欧洲制药工业协会联合会（EFPIA）发布了一份战略文件，建议：
- 为采用NAM提供监管激励
- EMA、FDA和PMDA（日本药品医疗器械局）之间的协调统一
- 更新指南以加速摆脱动物测试的过渡
## 未来展望
展望未来，器官芯片领域正经历一段意义深远的转型期。然而，必须强调的是，无论是3Rs框架还是现行立法，都不意味着动物模型在当今漫长的药物开发旅程中已被完全取代。器官芯片及其他NAM技术代表了强大且互补的工具，它们已经与动物模型一道应用于药物开发中。监管推动力和技术成熟度正在交汇，使得更广泛地采纳器官芯片技术变得越来越可行。
凭借在基于压力的流体系统方面的专业经验，我们每天都能看到，器官芯片的成功绝不仅仅依赖于卓越的工程设计。它还需要多器官整合与自动化，而这需要制药公司、学术研究人员、监管机构以及技术提供商之间的持续合作来支持。这种协作生态系统将决定器官芯片从创新的研究设备演变为临床前工作流程标准组件的速度。
塑造未来的一个主要力量是向全身微生理系统过渡。连接肠、肝、肾、血管和免疫模块，使得研究药物ADME的方式能够更好地反映人体的系统性反应。与此同时，未来十年必将迎来[向自动](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/automation-in-microfluidics/ "向自动")化和工业化方向的决定性推动。[器官芯片灌流](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/ "器官芯片灌流")、实时监测和标准化的芯片格式，将促成可重复且符合GLP（良好实验室规范）要求的工作流程。通过降低操作复杂性，自动化降低了制药团队将器官芯片纳入早期发现、ADME测试和临床前毒理学研究的门槛，提供了制药行业采纳所需的预测性和稳健性。
最后，也许最重要的驱动力是监管机构的接纳。《FDA现代化法案2.0》、NAMs项目、ISTAND以及EMA内部的同步进展，标志着一个全新监管时代的正式开启。这些政策并未消除动物测试，但它们为在提交资料中纳入器官芯片数据，以及在明确的使用场景中验证基于芯片的检测方法建立了清晰的路径。
在这个不断演变的环境中，对工业界和学术界的建议很明确：开始在特定领域整合器官芯片技术。建立内部专业知识储备，生成对比数据集，并积极参与验证工作。药物开发的未来不会由任何单一的利益相关者主导，而是取决于生物学家、工程师、监管者和技术开发者之间的集体协作，大家有着共同的目标：在减少对动物模型依赖的同时，提高人体相关性。
Fluigent精密的基于压力的流体系统，以其可靠且自动化的灌流技术，为器官芯片的长期研究提供了坚实的支持。如果您正在考虑将器官芯片整合到您的工作流程中，
[请联系我们](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/ "请联系我们")，探讨我们如何为您的系统搭建提供支持。
## 相关产品
- [
### 用于进行精确流体控制的微流控解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 液滴生产的先进解决方案
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
## 相关专业知识
- [
### 面向高流量控制的微流控技术
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 为什么要在细胞生物学中控制剪切应力？
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 微流控流体控制技术：为可靠结果选择合适的泵
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
- [
### 微流控自动化：实时监测与反馈回路
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/automation-in-microfluidics/)
- [
### 技术在高级类器官模型中的作用：从静态到动态
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
- [
### 使用微流控技术在微珠中进行前列腺类器官培养
阅读更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/application-expertise/%e5%be%ae%e6%b5%81%e4%bd%93%e5%8d%9a%e5%ae%a2/microbead-prostate-organoid-culture/)
## References
\[1\] J. Zuo, Y. Fang, R. Wang, and S. Liang, “High-throughput solutions in tumor organoids: from culture to drug screening,” *Stem Cells*, vol. 43, no. 1, p. sxae070, Oct. 2024, doi: 10.1093/stmcls/sxae070.
\[2\] V. Carvalho, M. Bañobre-López, G. Minas, S. F. C. F. Teixeira, R. Lima, and R. O. Rodrigues, “The integration of spheroids and organoids into organ-on-a-chip platforms for tumour research: A review,” *Bioprinting*, vol. 27, p. e00224, Aug. 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.bprint.2022.e00224.
\[3\] D. Sun, W. Gao, H. Hu, and S. Zhou, “Why 90% of clinical drug development fails and how to improve it?,” *Acta Pharm Sin B*, vol. 12, no. 7, pp. 3049–3062, Jul. 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.02.002.
\[4\] “US – Research – Roadmap to Reducing Animal Testing in Preclinical Safety Studies | Animal Legal & Historical Center.” Accessed: Feb. 06, 2026. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.animallaw.info/administrative/us-research-roadmap-reducing-animal-testing-preclinical-safety-studies
\[5\] S. S. Bale, L. Moore, M. Yarmush, and R. Jindal, “Emerging In Vitro Liver Technologies for Drug Metabolism and Inter-Organ Interactions,” *Tissue Engineering Part B: Reviews*, vol. 22, no. 5, pp. 383–394, Oct. 2016, doi: 10.1089/ten.teb.2016.0031.
\[6\] G. A. Van Norman, “Limitations of Animal Studies for Predicting Toxicity in Clinical Trials,” *JACC Basic Transl Sci*, vol. 4, no. 7, pp. 845–854, Nov. 2019, doi: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2019.10.008.
\[7\] A. Granzotto, B. Vissel, and S. L. Sensi, “Lost in translation: Inconvenient truths on the utility of mouse models in Alzheimer’s disease research,” *eLife*, vol. 13, p. e90633, doi: 10.7554/eLife.90633.
\[8\] S. Sreenivasamurthy, M. Laul, N. Zhao, T. Kim, and D. Zhu, “Current progress of cerebral organoids for modeling Alzheimer’s disease origins and mechanisms,” *Bioeng Transl Med*, vol. 8, no. 2, p. e10378, Aug. 2022, doi: 10.1002/btm2.10378.
\[9\] D. E. Ingber, “Human organs-on-chips for disease modelling, drug development and personalized medicine,” *Nat Rev Genet*, vol. 23, no. 8, pp. 467–491, Aug. 2022, doi: 10.1038/s41576-022-00466-9.
\[10\] C. M. Leung *et al.*, “A guide to the organ-on-a-chip,” *Nat Rev Methods Primers*, vol. 2, no. 1, p. 33, May 2022, doi: 10.1038/s43586-022-00118-6.
\[11\] A. Y. Peng and B. E. Lee, “Microphysiological Systems for Cancer Immunotherapy Research and Development,” *Adv Biol (Weinh)*, vol. 8, no. 8, p. e2300077, Aug. 2024, doi: 10.1002/adbi.202300077.
\[12\] J. J. Han, “FDA Modernization Act 2.0 allows for alternatives to animal testing,” *Artif Organs*, vol. 47, no. 3, pp. 449–450, Mar. 2023, doi: 10.1111/aor.14503.
\[13\] C. for D. E. and Research, “FDA’s ISTAND Pilot Program accepts a submission of first organ-on-a-chip technology designed to predict human drug-induced liver injury (DILI),” *FDA*, Sep. 2025, Accessed: Feb. 09, 2026. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fdas-istand-pilot-program-accepts-submission-first-organ-chip-technology-designed-predict-human-drug
\[14\] O. of the Commissioner, “FDA Announces Plan to Phase Out Animal Testing Requirement for Monoclonal Antibodies and Other Drugs,” FDA. Accessed: Feb. 09, 2026. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-announces-plan-phase-out-animal-testing-requirement-monoclonal-antibodies-and-other-drugs
---
### [Fluigent's Distributors](https://www.fluigent.com/company/distributors/)
**Published:** April 3, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Find a Fluigent Distributor Near You
Fluigent partners with trusted distributors worldwide to provide local expertise, support, and access to our cutting-edge microfluidic solutions. Explore our global network to find a distributor in your region and get the best guidance for your microfluidic projects.
## Australia
**Website:**
SDR Scientific Pty Ltd
Equipment, Support, Results
Unit 206 / 354 Eastern Valley Way
Chatswood NSW 2067 AUSTRALIA
**Contact:**
(E-mail):
Phone*:* [+61 2 9882 2882](tel:61298822882)
## China
**Website:** [http://www.microblox.cn/Contact\_us](http://www.microblox.cn/Contact_us)
Microblox Technologies (Beijing) Co., Ltd
Headquarter Address: West 7th Floor, Block A2, R&D Center, Jiuxianqiao Electronic City, Chaoyang District, Beijing, CHINA
**Contact:**
(E-mail)
Phone: 15810110035（彭工）
## India
**Website:**
Knowteq Info LLP
7th Floor NCC Urban Windsor, Bellary Road, Yashoda Nagar, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka, INDIA
**Contact:**
(E-mail) ****
Phone: +886-2-6600-8500
## Italy
**Website:**
CRISEL INSTRUMENTS S.R.L.
VIA MATTIA BATTISTINI, 177
00167 ROMA – ITALY
**Contact:**
*Niko Viggianiello, Ph.D.*
*Biology Application Specialist*
(E-mail):
Phone: +39 06 35402933
Mobile: +39 366 8338301
## Israel
**Website:**
Bi-Pol Electro-Optics
20 Hata’as, 4442520 Kfar Saba, ISRAEL
**Contact:**
(E-mail) ****
Phone: [+972-9-749-2225](tel:+972-9-749-2225)
Phone: [+972-525877759](tel:+972525877759)
## Japan
**Website:**
ASICON Tokyo Ltd.
1-15-20-602 Sakurazaka Chuoku Fukuoka 810-0024 JAPAN
**Contact:**
(E-mail) [**asicon-tokyo@asicon-tokyo.com**](mailto:asicon-tokyo@asicon-tokyo.com)
## Poland
Website:
Company name: Tespol Sp. z o.o.
Address: ul. Klecińska 125, 54-413 Wrocław, Poland
General email: [tespol@tespol.com.pl ](tespol@tespol.com.pl "tespol@tespol.com.pl ")
Phone: [+48 71 783 63 60](http://+48717836360 "+48717836360")
## Singapore
**Website:**
APP Systems Services
11 Toh Guan Road East
\#03-01 APP Enterprise Building
Singapore 608603
**Contact:**
(E-mail) ****
Phone: [+65 6425 6611]()
## South Korea
**Website:**
SCINCO
\#627, BONGEUNSA-RO, GANGNAM-GU, SEOUL, KOREA
**Contact:**
(E-mail) [**scinco@scinco.com**](mailto:scinco@scinco.com)
Phone: 82-2-2143-8200
## Taiwan
**Website:**
SCINCO
Taipei Office : 11494, 8F-4, No. 200, Gangchuan Road, Neihu District, Taipei City, TAIWAN.
**Contact:**
(E-mail) ****
Phone: +886-2-6600-8500
---
### [5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
**Published:** April 18, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 1. Pressure control for unmatched performance
A **stable** **and precise flow rate,** with a fast **settling time,** is often a prerequisite in microfluidic and millifluidic applications such as [droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/), [drug screening](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/drug-discovery/), [cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/), or [dynamic cell culture](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) for [cell biology and microscopy](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/).
### Pressure control for improved stability and settling time
In a system that generates microfluidic droplets, a fast [settling time](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/) (defined as the amount of time for the output signal to reach a certain percentage – for instance, 95% – of an instantaneous pressure change) is generally needed to directly reach the [targeted flow rate](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/), and subsequently, the required droplet size related to it. This allows for the minimizing of the transient phase, where generated droplets (that can contain expensive reagents or cells) cannot be exploited. This ultimately reduces waste and costs of the microfluidic protocol. On the other hand, a stable flow rate ensures homogeneous droplet size, ensuring the long-term reliability of your protocol. .
#### a. **Settling time: what is the real flow rate in your system?**
***OEM Syringe pump and settling time***
Industrial syringe pumps consist of a simple source of linear motion induced by a stepper motor that controls the speed at which the piston is driven. The flow rate is directly deduced by the piston velocity and section. The settling time not only depends on the mechanics of the syringe pump but also on the fluidic resistance of the microfluidic system. When implementing or modifying the ordered flow rate, the internal pressure increases in the fluidic system and deforms it instead of pushing the liquid.
Depending on the system’s fluidic resistance and elasticity, the settling time varies from a hundredth of a millisecond to several minutes. When implementing a flow rate on the syringe pump for industrial applications, the ordered flow rate value is displayed, but there is no information on the actual flow rate, or the time required to reach it. **The microfluidic device’s lack of information on the real flow rate is one of the main sources of experimental and protocol failure.**
***Fastest response time with OEM pressure controller***
Pressure controllers allow for the pressurizing of the reservoir or tank that contains your liquids. When using a pressure controller, pressure is almost instantaneously applied to the reservoir. For instance, valves used in Fluigent instruments usually have **response times below 30 milliseconds,** which is lower than motors used in syringe pumps. Reactive systems such as the F-OEM and its FASTAB technology have fast settling times. The graph below shows the response times of a Fluigent [F-OEM pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/) with a standard syringe pump. Targeted pressure is achieved in less than a few seconds for the majority of fluidic systems (depends mainly on the pressure source and related gas flow rate, and the pneumatic volumes to be pressurized). the pneumatic volumes to be pressurized).
*Figure 1: Response time between pressure –based flow controller*
#### b. **Unmatched stability thanks to finely adjusted pressure**
The [flow stability](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) of a syringe pump is inherent to the minimal mechanical step supplied by its motor. Because the piston’s increment is correlated to the volume injected, this minimal movement induces a minimal injected volume. The stepper motor will induce pulses or oscillations at low flow rates that are related to the technology and not due to external parameters. Consequently, most syringe pumps on the market cannot reach a stability lower than 0.35%, which is already for high-end syringe pumps that make use of low-volume syringes as a smaller diameter and – ~10 ml syringes – improve stability (but inevitably affect volumes to be injected and maximum flow rates that can be reached).
When a reservoir or a tank is pressurized using a pressure controller, the sample is smoothly injected into your microfluidic system. This technology generally makes use of solenoid valves, allowing for extremely fine-tuning of the pressure applied. As there are no mechanical parts in contact with the fluids, pressure controllers can establish pulseless flows that cannot be obtained with even the most accurate syringe pump. Using Fluigent controllers, pressure stability with < 0.1% CV is obtained. This allows a new level of stability that is required for emerging applications.
*Figure 2: Pressure stability pressure –based flow controller*
#### c. **Higher liquid flow rate accuracy and regulation capabilities with a flow sensor: pressure-driven flow control**
***Inline flow sensors for fast, accurate flow rate monitoring & regulation***
If one wants to directly measure the flow rate, a liquid flow sensor can be added to the system. Flow sensors are also useful to ensure a fluidic protocol’s proper functioning, permitting **flow/volume monitoring**, or **protocol failure identification** and prevention. Flow sensors are complementary to pressure controllers as they permit to develop a **“feedback loop”** system, regulating the flow rate through pressure if an algorithm is implemented. Fluigent offers **pressure-based flow rate regulation** due to its patented [“self-learning” algorithm](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/), allowing the flow rate to be adjusted while an experiment is running to control the sample volume dispensed and/or the sample flow rate. The graph below compares flow rate stability between Fluigent pressure-based flow control and a standard OEM syringe pump. Using our regulation algorithm coupled with a flow sensor, a flow rate stability of < 5% is achieved, while ~10% stability is observed with a syringe pump.
*Figure 3: comparison between an OEM syringe pump (grey) & an OEM pressure-based flow controller (blue)*
***Need high-performance pressure-driven flow control without having a flow sensor on the fluidic line?***
With the growth of biological applications that make use of microfluidics, the need for a **fully sterile**,and**disposable environment** on the fluidic line is intensely growing. **Fluigent is the only company to provide a non-invasive flow sensordedicated to fluidic applications.**
Fluigent’s standard OEM pressure-based flow control solution, which consists of a **high-precision pressure controller** (Fluigent PX or F-OEM) and a Non-Invasive Flow Sensor, brings **excellent flow rate regulation** **without requiring elements on the fluidic path or fluid calibration**. The NIFS allows **contactless live flow rate monitoring and regulation**.
This unique system keeps Fluigent a step ahead of other microfluidic pressure-driven flow control providers as well as industrial syringe pump suppliers.
*Figure 4: syringe pump system vs Fluigent pressure-based flow control system*
**Fluigent Pressure Controllers****OEM Syringe Pump****Accuracy**< 0.1% CV Full Scale (FS) ~ 1% **Pressure Resolution**
**(Minimum pressure steps)** 0.03% FS N/A **Response time** Pressure controller: < 30 ms N/A **Settling time** Pressure: < 2 s
Flow rate: < 5 sFrom a few seconds to minutes depending on the fluidic system **Outlet pressure range**
**Positive range:** 0 to 25 mbar, 0 to 69 mbar, 0 to 345 mbar, 0 to 1000 mbar, 0 to 2000 mbar, 0 to 7000 mbar
**Negative range:** 0 to -25 mbar, 0 to -69 mbar, 0 to -345 mbar, 0 to -800 mbar
**Push-Pull:** -800 to +1000 mbar N/A **Liquid Flow Rate Range** 0 to 10 mL/min > 200 mL/min **Injection volumes** Up to 1 L < 140 mL (Limited by max. syringe size)**Flow rate monitoring & regulation** Using a flow sensor: < 5% m.v. No live monitoring. **Compatibility with sterile environments / Contamination risks** Suitable
Sterile reservoirs and no mechanical parts in touch with the liquids
Flow rate control possible without any system on the fluidic line with the NIFS Possible
Disposable plastic syringes OK, but decreased performance
Glass syringes: Needs sterilization/cleaning step for each experiment **Compatibility with long-term protocols** Suitable
Stable pressure supply Limited by syringe reservoir
Prone to instability over time depending on the syringe pump and syringe used **Maintenance**Not required Syringe alignment, seal maintenance ## 2. No need to compromise stability for larger injection volumes anymore. Gain time on implementation and refills.
As explained above, the larger the syringe volume (more specifically, the section), the lower the flow rate stability. Consequently, syringe pump users need to choose between stability and minimum volume in order to be injected, which is not always possible depending on the targeted application. In addition, most syringe pumps dedicated to microfluidic industrial application do not exceed 60 mL volume, which can be a strong limitation for any applications that need buffer solutions.
When using pressure controllers, it is possible to use larger reservoirs. With Fluigent pressure systems, bottles of up to 1 L can be used without affecting the excellent flow stability provided by pressure. Filling and refilling processes are straightforward using pressure-based systems.
## 3. A Cost-effective solution for your microfluidic system
At first sight, a pressure-driven flow control system can look more costly than a syringe pump system, as the addition of a pressure source and flow sensors (if required) add up to the cost of the overall system. However, some advantages of pressure controllers and continuous technology improvement ultimately affect the final cost of your system, including:
- **One channel to feed several reservoirs**
It is possible to pressurize several reservoirs using one pressure controller, which is less feasible with syringe pumps as flow rates are not likely evenly separated.
- **Better response time means less reagent consumption and waste**
As explained above, during the transient phase where flow rates are not stable, data cannot be exploited, and reagents used during this phase are lost. Minimizing this transient phase allows for optimizing reagent consumption thus reducing experimental costs.
- **All-in-one pressure source and control to reduce the overall cost
The latest technology developed by Fluigent: a [Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/) offers integrated pressure supply and control (positive and negative pressure) in a light and compact format (L\*l\*H = 7\*5\*4 cm), a cost-effective technology with a unique level of compactness at a reduced cost.
## 4. Reducing hazards due to cleaning issues and contamination
Using a high-precision syringe pump requires non-disposable glass, steel, or ceramic syringes as plastic syringe deformability impacts stability. Those non-disposable syringes are generally not delivered sterilized. This is a limitation for many biological applications where sterility on the fluidic path is mandatory. In addition, when using reusable syringes, cleaning is required, which in addition to being a tedious step, is more importantly an additional risk of contamination that could lead to experimental failure.
When using pressure controllers, no mechanical parts are in contact with the liquid. One can use standard disposable tubes or reservoirs that can come sterilized if needed. Contamination risks are thus mitigated using a pressure controller compared to an OEM syringe pump.
## 5. Cut down maintenance with pressure controllers
When developing a microfluidic system integrating liquid handling components, it is important to consider the lifecycle of all parts as well as the required maintenance needed to extend the lifetime of your system. When using syringe pumps, time-consuming maintenance steps are required to avoid degraded performance or protocol failure:
- Alignment steps: An incorrect syringe alignment and installation would impact both precision and accuracy. It is also a source of damaging syringe seals due to excessive installation forces. This must be done after every syringe replacement.
- Sealing maintenance: if pump seals are not properly maintained over time, leakage can occur and would lead to less accurate dispensing. Plunger seals often also contain a thin film of silicon oil lubricant that wears away over time as a result of use and exposure to fluids. Re-lubricating maintenance is periodically necessary to avoid performance issues or damage.
Maintenance is drastically reduced when using pressure controllers as they are not in contact with fluids. Securing a clean pressure source is usually enough for your pressure controller to work properly for several years. No alignment or calibration steps are needed before starting a protocol, unlike syringe pumps for industrial applications. Pressure controllers ensure a prolonged system lifetime, reducing time spent with Fluigent support.
As an expert and leader in accurate liquid control and automation, Fluigent provides innovative OEM instruments and customization services for manufacturers from Life Sciences to Diagnostics.
## Related Products
- [
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Management Unit
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
- [
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Related Ressources
- [
### Key considerations for fluidic system integration ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [
### Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
- [
### Contamination-free Liquid Handling System](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
---
### [Microfluidics for Pharmaceutical Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/)
**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Microfluidics in Pharmaceutics
### Drug delivery
Microparticles and emulsions are used for a wide variety of pharmaceutical products including intravenous, intramuscular, ocular, or orally delivered compounds. [**Emulsions** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)are also used as templates for polymer microparticles, [**lipid nanoparticles**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/), or microcapsules. These are later used for drug delivery, with the emulsion being the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) itself, or as an adjuvant for co-administration.
[Droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/) technology produces multiunit drug delivery systems with precise dosage control, targeted release, and homogeneous distribution. Conventional methods struggle to achieve monodispersity (<5%) required for efficient drug delivery. Our technology revolutionizes drug delivery, offering improved treatment options and personalized therapies and advancing pharmaceutical development and patient care.
To learn more about droplet microfluidics for pharmaceutical applications, read our white paper about [droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/).
### Disease modeling and characterization
Animal studies are the current standard for evaluating potential treatments, but they often struggle to correlate with human outcomes due to physiological differences and genetic variations. These studies are costly, time-consuming, and raise ethical concerns. Human clinical studies face challenges due to individual diversity and research complexity. Microfluidic models in an [organ-on-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/how-to-reproduce-active-biomimetic-stimulation-in-vitro/) format offer a promising alternative, providing an efficient, cost-effective, and ethical approach for drug discovery and personalized medicine. This technology advances the field of pharmaceutics by enabling the development of predictive methods to evaluate new compounds and therapeutics. It then helps in disease modeling and characterization, enhancing the drug discovery and development process.
To delve deeper into the topic of microfluidics for pharmaceutical applications using organ-on-chip systems, read our [OOC white paper.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
## Industrial applications
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
## Research applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Related Ressources
- [
### Microfluidics for vaccine development
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-for-vaccines-research-and-development/)
- [
### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [
### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [
### Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [
### Webinar – Liver–Kidney OOC Model to Investigate Drug Disposition
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-liver-kidney-ooc-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [
### Webinar- Flow Control in Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-control-in-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
## Related products
### Research field
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
### Industrial field
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Looking for another market?
From the life sciences to the food industry, many applications require the use of fluids driven at flow rates from nanoliters to milliliters per minute. At such low flows, the success of these applications strongly depends on the level of control and automation of the fluidic operations.
These applications require flow control systems that are adapted for ensuring their success.
[All Market & Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/)
[Go to research field](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
[Go to industrial field](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/)
---
### [Microfluidics in Life Science](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/)
**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A new level of technology
### Microscopy and cell biology
Flow cells or microfluidic chips combined with a fluid perfusion system and microscopy are compatible with a variety of applications, including DNA and RNA hybridization, drug combination and long-term perfusion, and immunostaining.
### Cell culture and Organ-on-a-chip
This area is an ideal microenvironment to study molecular and cellular-scale activities that underlie human organ function as well as identify new therapeutic targets *in vitro*.
### Digital PCR
[**Microfluidic dPCR**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/digital-pcr/) offers a new level of insight compared to quantitative PCR (qPCR). Droplet-based microfluidics is an excellent solution for partitioning a sample.
Want to learn more about the capabilities of microfluidics in life science? See [**Fluigent’s CEO France Hamber discuss microfluidic disruptive discoveries**](https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220411/What-does-the-Future-of-Microfluidics-within-Research-Look-Like.aspx)
## Research applications
## Industrial applications
## Microfluidics in biology and medicine
Microfluidics has emerged as a transformative technology, revolutionizing various areas of research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. By enabling precise manipulation and control of small volumes of fluids at the microscale level, microfluidic devices, also known as lab-on-a-chip, have opened up new possibilities in the study of cells, diagnostics, DNA sequencing, and drug discovery. In biology, microfluidics allows researchers to analyze and manipulate individual cells, paving the way for advancements in cell biology and single-cell genomics. In medicine, microfluidic platforms offer portable, rapid, and cost-effective point-of-care diagnostics, bringing healthcare to resource-limited settings, e.g. by using organ-on-chip platforms.
As an example, microfluidics in life science has accelerated RNA sequencing technologies, enabling high-throughput sequencing at reduced costs. In the application note linked below, Fluigent presents the Drop-Seq method, a high-throughput method that enables sequencing of the mRNA from a large number of cells. The Drop-Seq method pairs barcoded beads and cells in droplets, capturing cell-specific RNA on beads. Tagged cDNA is generated, amplified, sequenced, and bioinformatically analyzed. Barcode sequences identify cells, and transcript sequences are mapped to a reference genome, forming cell-specific gene-expression profiles.
[To learn more about this technology, read the application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
## Microfluidic tools for cell biological research
Cellular biology plays a crucial role in the field of medical science and drives innovation. A comprehensive understanding of how cells react during infections and pathological conditions is instrumental in the discovery of novel disease treatments. Essential to the analysis and visualization of cellular behavior are microscopy and imaging technologies. In the realm of cell biology, the integration of precise fluid flow control within microfluidic systems has revolutionized the study of cells by providing an automated platform that mimics their natural environment.
**Microfluidics facilitates the delivery of fluids at controlled flow rates**, minimizing errors. It finds applications in diverse areas such as RNA and DNA hybridization, enabling real-time imaging of gene expression in living cells. Microfluidics also contributes to drug combination therapies, long-term perfusion studies, and improved immunostaining protocols. By replacing traditional methods, microfluidics in life science offers several advantages including **enhanced control, sensitivity, throughput, cost-effectiveness, and reduced material consumption**. Its potential impact extends to cancer diagnosis, enhancing our understanding of cancer biology, and driving advancements in medical research.
## Advantages of pressure-based flow controllers for life science experiments
Pressure-based flow controllers offer several advantages over peristaltic pumps and syringe pumps in microfluidics for life science applications. Firstly, it provides precise and accurate control of flow rates, allowing for better reproducibility and control of experimental conditions. Secondly, the pressure-based system is less prone to pulsations and variations in flow, resulting in more stable and consistent flow profiles. Additionally, using pressure-based controllers in life sciences allows researchers to work with much smaller volumes, which is useful when the samples to be studied are expensive or rare.
Finally, using pumps like the Flow EZ allows for use of various accessories such as reservoir mixers or block heaters, which can reproduce the physiological conditions of cells, for example, and keep the sample homogeneous, which is much more complex, if not impossible, with other types of pumps.
## Organ-on-chip studies for life science
Organs-on-chips (OoC) are microdevices that mimic organ functions. They use microfluidics and 3D culture to replicate human physiology. OoC models show that dynamic culture conditions affect system maturation. They aim to recreate tissue barriers, parenchymal tissues, and inter-organ interactions. An OoC system includes a microfluidic chip with cell culture chambers, fluid channels, and optional components like membranes or gels. Biosensors and bio-actuators may be added. This technology is very useful for microfluidics in life science applications, as it offers more realistic lab modeling of organs and tissues. To that end, Fluigent has created Omi, a versatile and automated platform for organ-on-chip studies.
Omi allows for long-term cell culture with controlled shear stress conditions through continuous flow. It offers customizable and automated protocols for various functions, such as perfusion, recirculation, sampling and injection. This platform caters to the requirements of both novice cell culture researchers and experienced organ-on-chip researchers, addressing their needs for automation and reproducibility.
## Microfluidic in Life Science Case Study
**Hans-Knöll-Institut, New Antibiotics, Cultivation in Droplets**
This project focuses on how Fluigent’s customers use microfluidics to achieve outstanding results in their technology experiments.
Our speakers are Prof. Dr. Miriam Agler-Rosenbaum (Head of Bio Pilot Plant Department), Dr. Sundar Hengoju, Dr. Dede Man from the Bio Pilot Plant Department of the Leibniz Institut for Natural Products Research and Infection Biology (Hans Knöll Institute).
- How are they trying to find new antibiotics?
- Why is this important for infection biology?
- How do they research natural products?
- What are these products exactly?
- How does microfluidics allow them to cultivate microbes in droplets?
- How does the technology increase their efficiency millions of times over?
- In which cases are pressure pumps better than syringe pumps?
- How can microfluidic droplets be stabilized?
Watch this episode to find out – and note that this is just one story told. There are many possible applications for microfluidics.
## Related products
### Research field
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
### Industrial field
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Related Expertises
- [
### Webinar – Liver–Kidney OOC Model to Investigate Drug Disposition
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-liver-kidney-ooc-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [
### Webinar- Flow Control in Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-control-in-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## Looking for another market?
From the life sciences to the food industry, many applications require the use of fluids driven at flow rates from nanoliters to milliliters per minute. At such low flows, the success of these applications strongly depends on the level of control and automation of the fluidic operations.
These applications require flow control systems that are adapted for ensuring their success.
[All Market & Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%ec%8b%9c%ec%9e%a5-%eb%b0%8f-%ec%9d%91%ec%9a%a9%eb%b6%84%ec%95%bc/)
[Go to research field](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/research-ko/)
[Go to industrial field](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/)
---
### [Microfluidics in Life Science](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/)
**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A new level of technology
### Microscopy and cell biology
Flow cells or microfluidic chips combined with a fluid perfusion system and microscopy are compatible with a variety of applications, including DNA and RNA hybridization, drug combination and long-term perfusion, and immunostaining.
### Cell culture and Organ-on-a-chip
This area is an ideal microenvironment to study molecular and cellular-scale activities that underlie human organ function as well as identify new therapeutic targets *in vitro*.
### Digital PCR
[**Microfluidic dPCR**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/digital-pcr/) offers a new level of insight compared to quantitative PCR (qPCR). Droplet-based microfluidics is an excellent solution for partitioning a sample.
Want to learn more about the capabilities of microfluidics in life science? See [**Fluigent’s CEO France Hamber discuss microfluidic disruptive discoveries**](https://www.news-medical.net/news/20220411/What-does-the-Future-of-Microfluidics-within-Research-Look-Like.aspx)
## Research applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## Industrial applications
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
## Microfluidics in biology and medicine
Microfluidics has emerged as a transformative technology, revolutionizing various areas of research, diagnostics, and therapeutics. By enabling precise manipulation and control of small volumes of fluids at the microscale level, microfluidic devices, also known as lab-on-a-chip, have opened up new possibilities in the study of cells, diagnostics, DNA sequencing, and drug discovery. In biology, microfluidics allows researchers to analyze and manipulate individual cells, paving the way for advancements in cell biology and single-cell genomics. In medicine, microfluidic platforms offer portable, rapid, and cost-effective point-of-care diagnostics, bringing healthcare to resource-limited settings, e.g. by using organ-on-chip platforms.
As an example, microfluidics in life science has accelerated RNA sequencing technologies, enabling high-throughput sequencing at reduced costs. In the application note linked below, Fluigent presents the Drop-Seq method, a high-throughput method that enables sequencing of the mRNA from a large number of cells. The Drop-Seq method pairs barcoded beads and cells in droplets, capturing cell-specific RNA on beads. Tagged cDNA is generated, amplified, sequenced, and bioinformatically analyzed. Barcode sequences identify cells, and transcript sequences are mapped to a reference genome, forming cell-specific gene-expression profiles.
[To learn more about this technology, read the application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
## Microfluidic tools for cell biological research
Cellular biology plays a crucial role in the field of medical science and drives innovation. A comprehensive understanding of how cells react during infections and pathological conditions is instrumental in the discovery of novel disease treatments. Essential to the analysis and visualization of cellular behavior are microscopy and imaging technologies. In the realm of cell biology, the integration of precise fluid flow control within microfluidic systems has revolutionized the study of cells by providing an automated platform that mimics their natural environment.
**Microfluidics facilitates the delivery of fluids at controlled flow rates**, minimizing errors. It finds applications in diverse areas such as RNA and DNA hybridization, enabling real-time imaging of gene expression in living cells. Microfluidics also contributes to drug combination therapies, long-term perfusion studies, and improved immunostaining protocols. By replacing traditional methods, microfluidics in life science offers several advantages including **enhanced control, sensitivity, throughput, cost-effectiveness, and reduced material consumption**. Its potential impact extends to cancer diagnosis, enhancing our understanding of cancer biology, and driving advancements in medical research.
## Advantages of pressure-based flow controllers for life science experiments
Pressure-based flow controllers offer several advantages over peristaltic pumps and syringe pumps in microfluidics for life science applications. Firstly, it provides precise and accurate control of flow rates, allowing for better reproducibility and control of experimental conditions. Secondly, the pressure-based system is less prone to pulsations and variations in flow, resulting in more stable and consistent flow profiles. Additionally, using pressure-based controllers in life sciences allows researchers to work with much smaller volumes, which is useful when the samples to be studied are expensive or rare.
Finally, using pumps like the Flow EZ allows for use of various accessories such as reservoir mixers or block heaters, which can reproduce the physiological conditions of cells, for example, and keep the sample homogeneous, which is much more complex, if not impossible, with other types of pumps.
## Organ-on-chip studies for life science
Organs-on-chips (OoC) are microdevices that mimic organ functions. They use microfluidics and 3D culture to replicate human physiology. OoC models show that dynamic culture conditions affect system maturation. They aim to recreate tissue barriers, parenchymal tissues, and inter-organ interactions. An OoC system includes a microfluidic chip with cell culture chambers, fluid channels, and optional components like membranes or gels. Biosensors and bio-actuators may be added. This technology is very useful for microfluidics in life science applications, as it offers more realistic lab modeling of organs and tissues. To that end, Fluigent has created Omi, a versatile and automated platform for organ-on-chip studies.
Omi allows for long-term cell culture with controlled shear stress conditions through continuous flow. It offers customizable and automated protocols for various functions, such as perfusion, recirculation, sampling and injection. This platform caters to the requirements of both novice cell culture researchers and experienced organ-on-chip researchers, addressing their needs for automation and reproducibility.
## Microfluidic in Life Science Case Study
**Hans-Knöll-Institut, New Antibiotics, Cultivation in Droplets**
This project focuses on how Fluigent’s customers use microfluidics to achieve outstanding results in their technology experiments.
Our speakers are Prof. Dr. Miriam Agler-Rosenbaum (Head of Bio Pilot Plant Department), Dr. Sundar Hengoju, Dr. Dede Man from the Bio Pilot Plant Department of the Leibniz Institut for Natural Products Research and Infection Biology (Hans Knöll Institute).
- How are they trying to find new antibiotics?
- Why is this important for infection biology?
- How do they research natural products?
- What are these products exactly?
- How does microfluidics allow them to cultivate microbes in droplets?
- How does the technology increase their efficiency millions of times over?
- In which cases are pressure pumps better than syringe pumps?
- How can microfluidic droplets be stabilized?
Watch this episode to find out – and note that this is just one story told. There are many possible applications for microfluidics.
## Related products
### Research field
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
### Industrial field
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Related Expertises
- [
### Webinar – Liver–Kidney OOC Model to Investigate Drug Disposition
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-liver-kidney-ooc-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
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### Webinar- Flow Control in Microfluidics
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
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---
### [Fluigent Newsletter](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigent-newsletter/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
---
### [미세유체에서의 흐름 제어 기술: 신뢰할 수 있는 결과를 위한 적절한 펌프 선택 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/flow-control-technologies-comparison/)
**Published:** December 11, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 미세유체에서의 흐름 제어 기술 개요
### 왜 흐름을 정밀하게 제어해야 할까요?
미세유체에서는 수백 마이크로미터 이하의 미세 채널을 통해 유체의 흐름을 [제어하여 단일 크기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/microfluidic%eb%af%b8%ec%84%b8%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-droplet-%ec%83%9d%ec%84%b1-%eb%b0%a9%eb%b2%95/ "제어하여 단일 크기") [방울 생성이나 장기칩(Organ-on-a-chip)](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/ "방울 생성이나 장기칩(Organ-on-a-chip)") 연구와 같은 다양한 실험을 수행합니다.
신뢰할 수 있고 재현 가능한 데이터를 생성하려면 흐름 매개변수에 대한 정밀한 제어가 필수적입니다. 예를 들어, 시스템에 적용되는 유속은 생성되는 방울의 치수를 결정하거나 세포에 특정 전단응력을 가하여 세포의 성장, 공간적 조직화 및 단백질 분비에 영향을 미칩니다. 시스템에 적용된 유속의 오차는 다중 크기 방울의 생성, 시스템 불안정, 세포 손상 등을 초래하며, 궁극적으로 실험의 실패로 이어질 수 있습니다. 따라서 모든 미세유체 시스템에서 완전하고 신뢰할 수 있는 흐름 제어가 필수적입니다.
흐름 기반 미세유체 실험에서 최적의 결과를 얻기 위해서는 다음 요소들을 고려해야 합니다:
- 필요로 하는 유속 또는 압력 범위
- 유속을 설정하거나 변경하는 데 필요한 속도
- 유속의 안정성 요구 수준
## 주요 미세유체 흐름 제어 방법
다양한 기술들이 서로 다른 작동 원리를 기반으로 미세유체 채널 내 유체 주입을 가능하게 합니다. 그러나 이 기술들은 모두 동일한 수준의 제어를 제공하지 않으며, 서로 다른 물리적 원리에 의존합니다.
### 1. 실린지 펌프 및 peristaltic 펌프 (체적 변위 방식)
이러한 펌프들은 기계적 운동을 이용해 유체를 이동시킵니다. 실린지 펌프는 사용이 간단하여 널리 쓰이지만, 특히 점성이 높은 유체나 공기 방울이 존재할 경우 맥동(pulsation)을 발생시키고 반응 시간이 길다는 단점이 있습니다. 또한 실시간 모니터링 및 압력 제어 기능이 부족하여 실험 결과가 일관되지 않거나 시료가 손상될 수 있습니다.
peristaltic 펌프는 저렴하고 대용량 처리에 적합하지만, 흐름이 불안정하고 맥동이 발생하기 때문에 정밀한 제어가 요구되는 응용 분야에는 부적합합니다.
미세유체 분야에서의 실린지 펌프는 장단점이 있습니다. 그 예는 다음과 같습니다 \[1\] \[2\]：
**미세유체 실린지 펌프의 장점**
- 높은 압력 한계 (실린지 재질에 따라 다름)
- 실린지 이동 속도가 일정함
**미세유체 실린지 펌프의 단점**
- 맥동성 흐름(pulsatile flow) 발생
- 막힌 채널(dead-end channel) 내 흐름 제어 불가능
- 미세유체 구성 요소 내 정확한 압력 측정이 어려움
### 2. 압력 기반 흐름 제어기
압력 구동 시스템은 가스 압력을 이용해 저장조 내 액체를 미세유체 채널로 부드럽게 밀어냅니다. 이 방식은 빠른 반응 속도, 높은 안정성, 맥동 없는 흐름(pulse-free flow)을 보장합니다. 통합된 유량 센서와 지능형 알고리즘(예: Fluigent의 DFC)을 통해 압력과 유속을 실시간으로 정밀하게 제어할 수 있습니다. 이는 특히 생물학적 실험이나 방울 기반(droplet-based) 실험과 같이 민감한 응용 분야에서 재현성을 크게 향상시킵니다.
압력 펌프의 주요 장점은 하나의 압력 채널만으로 여러 저장조를 가압할 수 있다는 점입니다. 이를 통해 다양한 용액을 순차적으로 주입하는 경우 시스템 구성 비용을 크게 절감할 수 있습니다.
예를 들어, 당사의 모든 MFCS™ 시리즈는 정착 시간(settling time)이 최대 100ms에 불과하며, 압력 센서 해상도는 전체 범위(full scale)의 0.03%에 달하고, 측정값의 안정성은 변동계수(CV) 기준 0.1%에 이릅니다.
미세유체 분야에서의 압력 펌프 역시 장단점이 있습니다.
**미세유체 압력 펌프의 장점**
- 맥동 없는 흐름 제어: 흐름의 진동 없음
- 하나의 장치로 압력 및 유속 제어 가능
- 매우 높은 안정성: 0.005%
- 막힌 채널(dead-end channel) 내 흐름 제어 가능
- 미세유체 구성 요소 내 정확한 압력 측정 가능
**미세유체 압력 펌프의 단점**
- 최대 압력이 8바(bar)로 제한됨
- 다중 입구를 가진 유량 스위치는 역류(back flow)를 유발할 가능성이 있음
## 미세유체 흐름 제어: 각 유형의 미세유체 펌프의 장단점 비교
연동 펌프 (Peristaltic Pump) 실린지 펌프 (Syringe Pump) 압력 구동 펌프 (Pressure-driven Pump) **흐름 안정성** 열악함 중간 우수함 **반응 속도** 느림 느림 우수함 **정밀도** 열악함 中等 우수함 **주입 가능한 유체량 제한** 없음 (개방형 저장조 사용 가능) 있음 (실린지 용량에 의존) 없음 (대용량 병 사용 가능) **유체 순환 가능 여부** 가능 불가능 불가능 (단, L-스위치(순환 밸브) 사용 시 가능) **소량 시료 주입** 열악함 우수함 (극소량 사용 가능) 중간 (10µL 이하 주입 어려움) **가스 주입 가능 여부** 불가능 불가능 가능 **시료 교반** 가능 (시료가 분리된 저장조에 있음) 불가능 가능 (시료가 분리된 저장조에 있음) **시료 온도 제어 (T°C)** 가능 (저장조를 온수욕에 두면 됨) 불가능 가능 (저장조를 온수욕에 두면 됨) **복잡한 흐름 프로파일 생성/프로그래밍 가능 여부** 불가능 불가능 가능 (LineUp 시리즈 등) **흐름 압력 제어** 불가능 불가능 가능 **유속 제어** 가능 (교정 필요) 가능 불가능 (유량 센서 추가 시 가능) **고유속 적용 가능성** 가능 부적합 (실린지 재충전 어려움) 가능 **정방향 및 역방향 흐름** 가능 가능 (모델에 따라 다름) 가능 (출구에도 압력을 가해야 함) **수압 영향 (Hydrostatic pressure)** 없음 없음 있음 (회피를 위한
## 요약 및 활용 가이드
- peristaltic 펌프: 저비용, 대용량 흐름에 적합하지만 정밀도와 안정성이 낮아, 정량적 실험이 아닌 대량 흐름 또는 비생물학적 응용에 적합합니다.
- 실린지 펌프: 소량 시료 주입에 강점이 있고 구조가 간단하지만, 맥동과 느린 반응 속도로 인해 정밀한 미세유체 실험(예: 방울 생성, 세포 분석)에는 부적합합니다.
- 압력 구동 펌프: 높은 안정성, 실시간 압력/유속 제어, 복잡한 프로파일 프로그래밍, 온도 제어 및 가스 주입 등 다기능성을 제공하여 생물학적 연구, 방울 생성, Organ-on-a-chip, 고정밀 실험에 최적입니다. 단, 고압 제한과 수압 보정이 필요할 수 있습니다.
✅ 추천: 정밀한 미세유체 실험을 수행한다면 압력 구동 펌프가 가장 신뢰할 수 있는 선택입니다.
⚠️ 주의: 실린지 펌프는 소량 시료에 유리하지만, 흐름 불안정성으로 인해 생물학적 결과의 재현성에 위험을 초래할 수 있습니다.
## 더 나은 성능을 위한 실용 팁
미세유체 분야에서는 시스템 및 압력 펌프를 모니터링하고 제어하기 위한 다양한 솔루션이 제공됩니다. Fluigent는 모듈식 시스템 구축을 위해 다양한 제품을 개발하여 사용자의 필요에 맞춰 유연하게 구성할 수 있도록 지원합니다.
다음과 같은 목표를 달성하려면 다음과 같은 장치와 기술을 활용하세요:
- 정밀한 유속 모니터링 및 제어: 유량 센서를 추가하여 실제 유속을 정확히 측정하고 제어할 수 있습니다. 일부 소프트웨어 패키지는 원하는 유속에 도달할 때까지 압력을 자동으로 조절해 주며, 이는 실험의 재현성을 극대화합니다.
- 미세유체 칩 내 흐름 정지: 밸브를 시스템에 통합하면, 역류나 잔류 유체 없이도 미세유체 장치 내 흐름을 빠르게 정지시킬 수 있습니다.
- 유체 교환 및 순환을 위한 미세유체 스위치/밸브 사용: 다양한 포트 수와 기능을 갖춘 미세유체 밸브를 활용하면, 샘플 교체, 분류(sorting), 순환(recirculation) 등 복잡한 유체 조작을 간편하게 구현할 수 있습니다.
- 입구 압력 제어: 압력 펌프에 압력 생성기를 추가하면, 미세유체 시스템의 입력 압력을 정밀하게 제어할 수 있습니다.
- 단일 크기 방울(monodispersed droplets) 생성: 샘플에 계면활성제를 첨가하면, 장기적인 방울 안정성을 확보하고 방울 생성 빈도를 높일 수 있습니다.
- 기포 방지: 버블 트랩 또는 탈기장치 사용: 액체 샘플 내 기포는 미세유체 실험에서 흔히 발생하는 문제로, 장비 손상, 생물학적 시료 손상, 실험 오류의 주요 원인이 됩니다. Fluigent의 버블 트랩 키트(Bubble Trap Kit)나 탈기장치(Degasser)와 같은 전용 액세서리를 활용해 기포를 효과적으로 제거하세요.
- 소프트웨어를 통한 실험 자동화: 모든 호환 장치를 실시간으로 모니터링하고 제어할 수 있는 전용 소프트웨어를 통해 실험을 자동화하면, 결과의 일관성과 재현성을 크게 향상시킬 수 있습니다. 실시간 데이터 시각화 및 프로그래밍 가능한 흐름 프로파일 기능은 복잡한 실험 설계를 단순화합니다.
## 미세유체 칩에 적합한 재료 선택
미세유체 기술은 도입 이후 지속적으로 발전하며, 특히 생물학 및 의료 분야에서의 응용이 주요 연구 초점이 되고 있습니다. 재료 측면에서는 유리와 실리콘이 여전히 중요한 역할을 하지만, 고분자 재료가 현재 미세유체 분야의 주류 재료로 자리 잡았습니다.
각 재료는 고유한 장단점을 지니고 있으며, 아직도 PDMS가 마이크로패브리케이션에 가장 널리 사용되는 기판 재료이지만, 대량 생산에 적합하고 가격이 저렴하며 내구성과 기능성이 향상된 새로운 고분자 및 복합재료들이 지속적으로 개발되고 있습니다.
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### 마이크로유체칩: 작동 원리 및 올바른 칩 선택 방법
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/choosing-a-microfluidic-chip/)
## 결론
정밀도, 빠른 반응 속도, 신뢰할 수 있는 결과를 추구하는 사용자에게 압력 기반 흐름 제어기는 전통적인 실린지 펌프나 peristaltic 펌프보다 훨씬 우수한 성능을 제공합니다. 압력 펌프는 맥동 없는, 안정적이며 실시간 제어가 가능한 흐름을 제공하여, 방울 생성, 장기칩(Organ-on-a-chip), 세포 배양 등 최신 미세유체 연구 및 응용 분야에 이상적인 솔루션입니다.
결론적으로, 압력 기반 제어 시스템은 현대 미세유체 실험의 표준이 되었으며, 과학적 정확성과 실험 재현성의 핵심 요소입니다.
마이크로플루идics가 어떻게 연구를 한 단계 끌어올릴 수 있는지 궁금하신가요? 저희 솔루션이 어떻게 가장 야심찬 설계를 현실로 실현할 수 있도록 도와드리는지 함께 알아보세요.
[👉 전문가와 상담하기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[마이크로플루идics 기술에 대한 무료 리뷰를 다운로드하세요](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
## 관련 전문 지식
- [
### 정밀 유체 제어를 위한 미세유체 솔루션
발견](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/microfluidic-solutions/)
- [
### 액적 생산을 위한 고급 솔루션
발견](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/solutions-for-droplet-production/)
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
발견](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 오간온어칩 연구에서의 압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
- [
### 신뢰성 있는 드롭렛 생성을 위한 10가지 팁
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/10-tips-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 고유량제어를위한미세유체
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 액적생성을위한미세유체기술
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## References
1. Beebe, D. J., Mensing, G. A., & Walker, G. M. (2002). Physics and applications of microfluidics in biology. *Annual review of biomedical engineering*, *4*(1), 261-286.s. Lab on a Chip, 2008
2. Li et al, Lab Chip 2014, 14, 744
---
### [Careers](https://www.fluigent.com/company/careers/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Why join Fluigent:
1. Working in an scale-up company and being a key contributor to our rapid growth
2. Accessing to many exciting challenges with a real opportunity to make an impact and be involved with today’s societal issues
3. Having the Opportunity to work and grow with passionate and brilliant colleagues.
We are always on the lookout for talented people to join our team and we have many open positions.
Do you want to know more about our passionate and hard-working team?
[Know more about us](https://www.fluigent.com/company/team/)
### Fluigent, is recruiting for the export!
On Tuesday, June 28, 2022, our CFO Sabine Mercier has been interviewed by [Le Moci](https://www.lemoci.com) during a web conference dedicated to recruitment and export.
The web conference was realized and organized by Le Moci in conjunction with Enjeux RH.
[Watch the full version (French)](https://www.lemoci.com/replay-webconference-recruter-pour-lexport/)
EN subtitles
### Fluigent, a leader in the growing microfluidics market, is looking for passionate new collaborators
This Tuesday, February 15, 2022, our CEO France Hamber intervened yesterday in the BFM Business program to present the positions to be filled at Fluigent France and in our subsidiaries!
She also highlights Fluigent’s mission and objectives in the rapidly expanding field of microfluidics.
(French version only)
[Watch the interview](https://www.bfmtv.com/economie/replay-emissions/soixante-minutes-business/vous-recrutez-fluigent-gitguardian-15-02_VN-202202150268.html)
[](https://www.bfmtv.com/economie/replay-emissions/soixante-minutes-business/vous-recrutez-fluigent-gitguardian-15-02_VN-202202150268.html)
## What we offer
**A friendly & bright workplace**
**Qualitative equipment (in IT, for R&D Lab, for Production workshop)**
**3 min from Parisian Metro**
**Digital Health Insurance**
**Company Canteen & external patio**
## You want to join the experience?
Feel free to look our job opportunities
Or send us your spontaneous application to
---
### [미세유체 관류 최적화: 모범 사례와 혁신 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/마이크로유체-블로그/optimising-microfluidic-perfusion/)
**Published:** October 13, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 미세유체 관류란 무엇인가
**‘미세유체 관류(microfluidic perfusion)’의 정의와 일반적인 연속 유동과의 차이점:**
관류(perfusion)란 일반적으로 조직이나 채널 같은 구조를 통해 유체를 제어하여 공급하는 과정으로, 주로 의학적 용어에 기반한다. 미세유체학에서의 관류는 미세 채널을 통한 유체의 연속적 흐름을 의미하며, 이는 주로 조직이나 반응 구역을 가리킨다. \[1\]\[2\]
이 분야가 지속적으로 발전함에 따라, 미세유체 관류는 생세포 분석, 장기칩(organ-on-a-chip) 플랫폼, 단일 분자 검출(single-molecule detection)과 같은 고감도 분석에서 핵심적인 역할을 담당하게 되었다. 관류가 연속적, 다중(multiplexed), 혹은 순차적(sequential)으로 구현되더라도, 유동 속도, 층류(laminar)와 난류(turbulent)의 차이, 흐름 방향성과 같은 유체 역학을 정밀하게 제어하는 것이 필수적이다.
**표 1. 생명과학 연구에서 미세유체 관류의 중요성**
**응용 분야****활용****장기칩 / 동적 세포 배양** 영양분·산소 교환, 노폐물 제거, 전단 응력(shear stress) 등 생리학적으로 중요한 유동 조건을 모사하기 위해 배지를 지속적으로 관류하여 생체 내 유사 미세환경을 구현함. **실시간 세포 이미징 / 장기 현미경 관찰** 이미징 세션 동안 영양분 및 시약을 공급하여 세포 생존력을 유지하고, 세포 과정을 실시간으로 관찰 가능하게 함. **약물 반응 테스트** 약리학적 물질을 동적으로 주입 및 샘플링하여 농도 의존적 세포 반응을 평가, 이를 통해 고속 스크리닝과 독성 평가를 지원함. **관류 바이오리액터 및 세포 분리** 세포, DNA, 엑소좀 등 생물학적 시약을 대량 생산하고 이를 분리 및 검증하기 위해 지속적 관류를 적용한 확장형 시스템.
장기칩 연구에서 관류는 정적 배양(static culture)과 달리 생체 내와 유사한 미세환경을 조성한다. 관류는 반복적인 수동 조작과 환경 변동을 피함으로써 무균적이고 안정적인 환경을 제공한다. 이러한 안정성은 실시간 세포 이미징, 칼슘 수송체 모니터링, 약물 테스트와 같은 장기적 실험을 가능하게 한다. 관류 시스템은 세포 생존율을 장기간 향상시키고, 여러 화합물에 대해 정밀하고 용량 제어된 노출을 가능하게 한다.
*그림 1. 장기칩(OoC) 시스템에서의 미세유체 관류 (개방 루프와 폐쇄 루프, 즉 재순환 방식)*
## 미세유체 관류의 모범 사례
효과적인 관류는 적절한 재료, 정밀한 채널 구조, 그리고 생물학적 또는 화학적 응용을 지원하는 설계 전략의 통합에 달려 있다.
### 응용 요구사항에 따른 재료 선택
응용 분야에 따라, 미세유체 칩의 재료 선택은 기계적 특성, 화학적 호환성, 가스 투과성 등의 변수에 영향을 받으며, 이는 특정 응용에 맞게 조정될 수 있다. 이러한 선택은 연구와 목표로 하는 생물학적 모델링에 의해 결정된다.
**다양한 미세유체 칩 재료:**
- **PDMS**(폴리디메틸실록산): 가스 투과성이 있어 산소 공급 목적에 선택되지만, 소수성 분자를 흡수할 수 있어 약물 독성 검사에 영향을 줄 수 있음 \[3\].
- **유리 및 열가소성 수지(PMMA, COC 등):** 화학적으로 안정적이고 흡착이 적으며, 용출(leaching)을 최소화해야 하는 응용에 적합.
- **하이드로겔:** 완전히 유연한 미세유체 시스템에서 생체적합성 지지체로 부상 중이며, 특히 조직 모사 및 3D 배양 환경에서 활용됨 \[4\].
인체의 각 조직은 기능과 형태가 다르므로 생체 모사 모델은 이러한 차이를 고려해야 한다. 예를 들어, 뼈(Young’s modulus ~20 GPa)를 모사하는 데 적합한 재료는 뇌 조직(Young’s modulus ~2 kPa) \[5\]\[6\]을 모사하는 재료와 크게 다르다. 저산소 환경에서는 유리나 저투과성 열가소성이 선호되며, 연조직 모델링에는 유연한 막이나 하이드로겔이 더 적합하다.
재료 선택 외에도, 원하는 생물학적 기능을 지원하기 위해 내부 표면에 다양한 처리를 할 수 있다:
- 세포 부착력 향상: ECM 단백질(피브로넥틴, 콜라겐 등) 코팅.
- 비특이적 흡착 방지: PEGylation, BSA 코팅, 기타 항오염 코팅 적용 \[7\].
- 플라즈마 산화 또는 화학적 기능화를 통해 친수성과 젖음성을 향상시킬 수 있음.
### 칩의 기하학적 구조와 치수 최적화
채널 설계는 미세유체 시스템 내 유체 역학과 세포 반응에 영향을 미친다. 미세환경의 구조는 세포가 받는 기계적 신호에 영향을 주며 \[8\], 채널의 치수와 부피는 시약 확산 및 이후 생물학적 상호작용에 영향을 미친다.
- **[전단 응력(shear stress)](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/ "전단 응력(shear stress)")**은 세포의 형태, 이동, 유전자 발현 등 핵심적인 세포 반응에 영향을 미친다. 유동 조건은 [채널의 기하학적 구조와 유속을 고려하여](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/resources-support/support-tools-ko/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/ "채널의 기하학적 구조와 유속을 고려하여"), 세포 유형에 따라 생체 내와 유사한 전단 응력 범위(보통 1–20 dyn/cm²)에 맞추어야 한다.
- **관류 채널의 치수는 시약 확산과 샘플 노출 시간에 영향을 준다.** 확산은 분자의 이동에 기여하지만, 관류 분석에서 세포 반응에 지배적인 요인은 시약의 대류 흐름이다 \[9\]. 채널 치수와 유속을 정밀하게 제어해야 세포가 정의된 시약 농도와 시간적 프로필에 노출된다. 채널 치수의 변동은 유속과 체류 시간을 바꾸어 불균일한 시약 전달이나 확산 지배적 수송을 유발하고, 이는 농도 구배를 흐리게 하여 분석의 재현성을 떨어뜨린다. 시약 관류를 최적화하도록 채널을 설계하면, 정량적 생물학적 분석에 필수적인 재현 가능한 세포 반응을 확보할 수 있다.
- 미세유체 장치를 적절히 밀봉하는 것은 제어된 유체 환경을 유지하는 데 필수적이다. 개방된 포트, 잘못 접합된 층, 덮이지 않은 막 등에서 발생한 누출은 원치 않는 유동 경로나 교차 오염, 시약 손실을 초래할 수 있다. 이는 유체 역학을 교란시킬 수 있으므로, 누출을 감지하고 방지하는 것이 중요하다. 적절한 접착제, 접합 기술, 기계적 클램프를 사용한 정밀한 밀봉은 장치의 무결성을 보장하며, 특히 다층 칩이나 공동 배양 칩에서 공간적 분리가 필수적인 경우에 중요하다. 또한, 적절한 밀봉은 멸균 작업을 용이하게 하고, 공기 유입을 막아 기포 생성을 줄인다.
**! 미세유체 장치 사용 시 참고사항:**
**상용 미세유체 칩이나 유동 셀을 사용할 때는, 시스템 설정을 보정하고 재료의 광학적·화학적·물리적 특성을 고려해야 한다. 예를 들어, PDMS는 소수성 분자를 흡수하여 용량 정확성에 영향을 줄 수 있으며, 하이드로겔 기반 칩에서는 막 누출이나 변형 문제가 관류 전 멸균성과 밀봉을 저해할 수 있다.**
### 균일한 흐름을 위한 기포 방지
기포는 연속 흐름을 방해하는 요인이 될 수 있다. 3D 세포 배양에서는 세포 손상을 일으키고, 분석에서는 유동 프로필의 균일성을 방해한다.
- 일정한 온도 유지: 온도 변동은 용해된 가스가 기포로 핵생성되게 할 수 있다. 예를 들어, 섭씨 몇 도의 온도 상승만으로도 가스 용해도가 낮아져 기포 형성이 유도될 수 있다 \[10\].
- 기포 방지 전략에는 사용 전에 배지를 탈기하거나, 버블 트랩이나 인라인 탈기 막을 사용하여 관류를 방해할 수 있는 기포를 포획·제거하는 방법이 있다. 칩 내에 버블 트랩이나 탈기 막을 통합하면, 민감한 세포 배양 영역에 도달하기 전에 물리적으로 기포를 제거할 수 있다.
*그림 2. 미세유체 채널에서 기포 핵생성의 열영상*
### 유동 제어를 위한 적절한 관류 펌프 선택
적절한 펌프 유형과 유동 제어 방식 선택은 기술적 사양 정의에 달려 있다. 미세유체 관류에는 여러 장비가 사용된다:
- 압력 구동 펌프는 빠른 응답 시간과 함께 정밀하고 프로그래밍 가능한 유동 프로필을 제공하여, 안정적이고 낮은 맥동 유동이 필요한 민감한 응용에 이상적이다. 이러한 안정성은 층류(laminar flow)를 유지하는 데 도움이 되며, 생체 내 전단 응력 재현에 필수적이다.
- 실린지 펌프는 약 0.25%의 정확도로 일정한 유속을 제공하지만, 수동 리필 과정에서 흐름이 중단되고 맥동이 발생하여 민감한 세포나 반응에 영향을 줄 수 있다.
- 맥동 펌프는 사용이 편리하지만, 본질적으로 맥동 유동을 생성하여 세포에 스트레스를 주고 정량적 분석을 복잡하게 만든다. 이는 세포 생존율에 큰 영향을 준다.
[유체 제어 기술에 대한 포괄적인 검토는 다음과 같습니다.](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/ "유체 제어 기술에 대한 포괄적인 검토는 다음과 같습니다.")
적절한 관류 기술 선택 외에도, 정기적으로 보정과 청소를 하는 것이 중요하다. 예를 들어, 유동 센서에 바이오필름이 쌓이면 측정이 드리프트되고, 작은 유속 편차만으로도 전단 응력과 세포 반응이 크게 달라져 데이터 신뢰성에 영향을 줄 수 있다.
그림 3. 압력 구동 유동 제어기와 실린지 펌프의 성능 비교
## 미세유체 연속 흐름의 혁신
### 자동화된 다중화 시스템
미세유체에서 유동을 다중화하는 혁신적인 접근은, 다수의 입력 및 시약을 정밀하게 관리하고 병렬 채널에서 안정적인 액체 분배를 보장하는 과제를 해결한다. 다중 포트를 제어할 수 있는 압력 구동 미세유체에서는 특정 매니폴드를 설계하여 병렬 시약 공급과 배지 재순환이 가능하다.
최대 10종의 시약을 순차적으로 전달하기 위해 Aria를 사용하면 칩에 최대 10가지 시약을 관류할 수 있으며, 해당 소프트웨어는 자동 주입을 지원한다.
*그림 4. 3D-VoC 모델 기반 유동 보드 자동화 흐름도*
### 통합 실시간 감지
칩 내 또는 인라인 센서(광학·전기화학 프로브, 염증 마커용 바이오센서 등)의 통합이 연구에 사용되어 실험 결과를 분석하고 측정한다. 폐쇄 루프 제어는 이러한 센서가 배양 환경을 실시간으로 지속적으로 모니터링하고, 데이터를 사용하여 관류 매개변수를 자동 조정할 수 있게 한다. 이는 세포 건강과 재현성에 필수적인 안정적 생리 조건을 보장한다. 한 예로, 흐르는 배지 내 pH와 용존 산소를 추적하기 위해 개발된 소형 광학 센서 배열이 있으며, 이는 관류 중 목표 조건을 유지하기 위한 동적 조정을 가능하게 한다 \[11\].
*그림 5. 광학 센서가 통합된 조직 칩 (a. 작동 원리 개략도, b. 층별 분해도, c. 외형 상단도)*
### 장기칩 배지 관류
장기칩 기술의 채택이 증가하면서, 모델의 생리학적 요구를 충족시키기 위한 기술적 적응이 이루어졌다. 폐쇄 루프 재순환은 무균성 보장, 장기 재순환, 시약 비용 절감, 관심 있는 세크레톰(secretome) 증폭 등의 이점을 제공한다.
[Fluigent의 Omi ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/ "Fluigent의 Omi ")플랫폼과 같은 연속 미세유체 관류 시스템은 정밀하고 프로그래밍 가능한 유동 제어를 제공하여, 장벽 무결성, 조직 구조, 장기적 생존력을 유지함으로써 조직 특이적 환경을 재현하도록 설계되었다. 이는 반복 투여와 장기 배양을 지원하여 약물 스크리닝 분석의 예측 능력을 향상시킨다. TissUse의 압력 장치는 이들이 자체 OoC를 조작할 수 있게 한다.
**장기칩 유체 플랫폼 Omi의 기능에 대해 더 알아보기**
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
*그림 6. 광학 현미경 하의 Omi 시스템*
## 미세유체 관류의 발전
미세유체 관류는 개별 시스템에서 고도로 통합되고, 지능적이며, 확장 가능한 플랫폼으로 발전하고 있다. 앞으로 이 분야를 변화시킬 몇 가지 새로운 경향이 나타나고 있다:
- **복잡한 다중 장기 통합 및 폐쇄 루프 시스템:**
“바디온칩(body-on-a-chip)” 생태계, 즉 전신 생리학적 상호작용을 모사하기 위해 상호 연결된 조직 칩 네트워크의 증가가 예상된다. 이는 누출과 기포를 방지하기 위해 무관 연결 매니폴드 인터페이스와 결합될 수 있다.
- **신소재 및 적층 제조:** 스마트 폴리머와 3D 프린팅의 발전은 정교한 맞춤형 구조를 가능하게 하여 더 다양한 생체역학적 시뮬레이션과 유동 제어를 가능하게 할 것이다.
- **규제 진전 및 표준화:**
관류된 미세생리학 시스템(예: 장기칩)이 규제 승인을 얻음에 따라, 표준화된 플랫폼이 약물 개발 파이프라인에 진입할 것이다. 미국 FDA 현대화법 2.0에서 OoC 채택은 장기칩 연구가 임상 응용으로 번역될 수 있게 허용한다.
****여러 과제가 해결되어야 한다: 지속적 혁신을 위한 주요 초점 영역:****
- 기포 형성과 유동 안정성: 기포 핵생성 문제는 여전히 지속된다. 개선된 탈기 기술과 실시간 기포 검출이 필수적이다.
- 장기적 무균성과 시스템 견고성: 장기간의 실험은 효과적인 여과, 탄력적인 밀봉, 미생물 오염 방지를 위한 중복 설계를 갖춘 폐쇄 시스템을 요구한다.
- 제조 규모 확대와 비용: 실험실 프로토타입에서 상업적 제품으로 전환하기 위해서는 내구성 있고 사용하기 편리하며, 복잡성과 경제성을 균형 있게 유지하는 시스템이 필요하다. 이는 모듈식 및 재구성 가능한 장치로 가능할 수 있다.
***미래 비전: 이러한 경향과 솔루션이 융합됨에 따라, 미세유체 관류 시스템은 지능적이고 신뢰할 수 있으며 접근 가능한 도구로 발전할 것이다. 그 채택은 전문 연구소를 넘어, 주류 생물의학 연구, 약물 개발, 맞춤 의학으로 확대되며, 역동적이고 생리학적으로 관련된 새로운 시험관 내 모델링 시대를 열 것이다.***
## 관련 솔루션
- [
### 장기 온칩 연구를 위한 첨단 솔루션
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/solutions-for-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### 체학 기술을 위한 고급 솔루션
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/solutions-for-omics/)
- [
### 왜 세포 생물학에서 전단 응력을 제어해야 할까요?
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/why-control-shear-stress/)
- [
### 장기온칩응용분야를위한미세유체기술
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 체학응용분야를위한미세유체
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
- [
### 오간온어칩 연구에서의 압력 제어 마이크로유체 기술
자세히 보기](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/application-expertise/%eb%a7%88%ec%9d%b4%ed%81%ac%eb%a1%9c%ec%9c%a0%ec%b2%b4-%eb%b8%94%eb%a1%9c%ea%b7%b8/pressure-controlled-microfluidics-in-ooac/)
## References
1. Horowitz LF, Rodriguez AD, Ray T, et al. Microfluidics for interrogating live intact tissues. Microsystems & Nanoengineering. 2020;6:69. doi:10.1038/s41378-020-0164-0 [nature.com](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41378-020-0164-0)
2. Hattori K, Sugiura S, Kanamori T. Pressure-driven microfluidic perfusion culture device for integrated dose-response assays. J Lab Autom. 2013 Dec;18(6):437–45. doi:10.1177/2211068213503155 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24014544/)
3. Sønstevold L, Koza P, Czerkies M, Andreassen E, McMahon P, Vereshchagina E, et al. Prototyping in polymethylpentene to enable oxygen-permeable on-a-chip cell culture and organ-on-a-chip devices suitable for microscopy. Micromachines. 2024;15(7):898. doi:10.3390/mi15070898 [doi.org](https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15070898)
4. Nie J, Fu J, He Y. Hydrogels: The next generation body materials for microfluidic chips? Small. 2020 Nov;16(46):e2003797. doi:10.1002/smll.202003797 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103353/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
5. Rho JY, Ashman RB, Turner CH. Young’s modulus of trabecular and cortical bone material: ultrasonic and microtensile measurements. J Biomech. 1993;26(2):111–19. doi:10.1016/0021-9290(93)90042-D [researchgate.net](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387715355_EMG-Based_Variable_Impedance_Control_for_Enhanced_Haptic_Feedback_in_Real-Time_Material_Recognition?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
6. Budday S, Nay R, de Rooij R, Steinmann P, Wyrobek T, Ovaert TC, et al. Mechanical properties of gray and white matter brain tissue by indentation. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater. 2015;46:318–30. doi:10.1016/j.jmbbm.2015.02.024 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25819199/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
7. Choi Y, Tran H-V, Lee TR. Self-assembled monolayer coatings on gold and silica surfaces for antifouling applications: a review. Coatings. 2022;12(10):1462. doi:10.3390/coatings12101462 [mdpi.com](https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6412/12/10/1462?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
8. Sun B, Xie K, Chen T-H, Lam RHW. Preferred cell alignment along concave microgrooves. RSC Adv. 2017;7:6788–94. doi:10.1039/c6ra26545f [pubs.rsc.org](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2017/ra/c6ra26545f?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
9. Huber D, Oskooei A, Casadevall i Solvas X, de Mello AJ, Kaigala GV. Hydrodynamics in cell studies. Chem Rev. 2018;118(4):2042–79. doi:10.1021/acs.chemrev.7b00317 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29420889/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
10. Pereiro I, Fomitcheva Khartchenko AF, Petrini L, Kaigala GV. Nip the bubble in the bud: a guide to avoid gas nucleation in microfluidics. Lab Chip. 2019;19(14):2296–2314. doi:10.1039/c9lc00211a [pubs.rsc.org](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2019/lc/c9lc00211a?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
11. Azimzadeh M, Khashayar P, Amereh M, Tasnim N, Hoorfar M, Akbari M. Microfluidic-based oxygen (O₂) sensors for on-chip monitoring of cell, tissue and organ metabolism. Biosensors. 2021 Dec 22;12(1):6. doi:10.3390/bios12010006 [pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8774018/)
---
### [Kontakt](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
- Kundenbetreuung / Vertriebsunterstützung
- Anderer Kontakt
## Kundenbetreuung
Wir bei Fluigent wissen, dass ein nicht funktionierendes System Zeitverlust im Labor bedeutet. Das Kundenserviceteam von Fluigent ist bestrebt, zeitnahe und kostengünstige Reparaturen durchzuführen. Unser Support reicht von mikrofluidischer Beratung bis hin zur Gerätereparatur, um sicherzustellen, dass Sie so schnell wie möglich wieder an Ihren Experimenten arbeiten können.
Wenn Sie in unseren [FAQ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/ "FAQ") keine Antwort gefunden haben, wenden Sie sich an unser engagiertes Team. Wir garantieren Ihnen eine Antwort in weniger als 24 Stunden, gegebenenfalls gefolgt von einer Diagnose durch eine Fernsitzung oder einen Besuch vor Ort.
### EUROPA & REST DER WELT
**Maya Ballet**
contact@fluigent.com
Durchwahl: +33 6 37 67 56 79
Mobil: +33(0)1 7701 8268
### AMERICA
****James Lazich****
fluigentinc@fluigent.com
Durchwahl: +1 978-926-3307
Mobil: +1 978-268-0347
## Vertriebsunterstützung
Sie sind an unseren Technologien interessiert? Sie brauchen eine Beratung für Ihren Aufbau? Sie möchten mit der Mikrofluidik beginnen?
Schicken Sie uns eine Nachricht! Wir freuen uns immer, von Ihnen zu hören.
### EUROPA & REST DER WELT
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contact@fluigent.com
Durchwahl: +33(0)6 08641242
Mobil: +33(0)1 82 39 43 81
### AMERICA
**Fernando Ferreira**
fluigentinc@fluigent.com
Durchwahl: +1 781-796-7920
Mobil: +1 978-306-6988
## Anderer Kontakt
### KUNDENBETREUUNG
FLUIGENT
contact@fluigent.com
Mobil: +33(0)1 7701 8268
### GENERAL
Mobil: +33(0)1 82 39 43 81
---
---
### [Center Partners](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/center-partners/)
**Published:** December 12, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## The IPGG Technology platform
The [IPGG technology platform](https://www.plateformeipgg.fr/) is a set of rooms with an area of 550m² which offers all the technologies necessary for the creation of microfluidic devices, their characterization and their use. It is part of the SBPC network which brings together all the clean rooms in central Paris.
It is led by a team of 6 engineers who manage the equipment fleet, support users (advice and training), and develop new processes.
The platform is conditionally accessible to anyone who requests it, whether academics or businesses.
## About the Pierre-Gilles de Gennes Institute for Microfluidics (IPGG)
The Pierre-Gilles de Gennes Institute (IPGG), or Pierre-Gilles de Gennes Institute for Microfluidics, is a French research center dedicated to microfluidics and its applications at PSL University.
The institute brings together sixteen research teams attached to the Institut Curie, Chimie ParisTech, the École Normale Supérieure and ESPCI Paris, all four members of PSL University.
Based on rue Jean-Calvin in Paris, it is named after the French physicist and Nobel Prize winner in physics Pierre-Gilles de Gennes. Double winner of the 2010 Investments for the Future (Équipex and Labex PSL), the building housing the IPGG was inaugurated on March 14, 2016 in the presence of the President of the French Republic François Hollande and the Mayor of Paris Anne Hidalgo.
This building accommodates eight of the sixteen IPGG teams, the ESPCI Paris PC’up incubator, a 150-seat amphitheater and a microfabrication technological platform.
Directed from 2010 to 2018 by Patrick Tabeling, the IPGG has been directed since January 1, 2019 by Lydéric Bocquet.
The IPGG has built an M2 level training course dedicated to microfluidics, its concepts, applications and innovations. This training is carried out in partnership with the Masters in Physics of Complex Systems (Paris-Saclay University, University of Paris, Sorbonne University) and Materials Science and Engineering (PSL University).
## Fluigent Setup
## Testimonial on Fluigent
### Dr. Bertrand Cinquin, Platform Director
*“A few years ago, arriving at IPGG platform with poor knowledge in microfluidics I was worried at first that it will be a difficult task. I got promptly reassured starting using the MCFS system as it was very much accessible and reliable. Developing courses for many new researchers and engineers, being able to master the experimental setups is a must and Fluigent deliver perfectly with a comprehensible interface. On top of that, the software all-in-one Oxygen for automation gives the opportunity to create complex protocols. More important, we can also easily interface microscopes, pressure controller, and many other devices under the same coding language and that can provide tremendous amount of new experiments.”*
## Celebrating Innovation
### Highlights from IPGG User Day 2024
Reflecting on the inspiring IPGG Platform User Day, Fluigent is proud to have been a part of this milestone event. Our participation underscored our commitment to the microfluidics community, as we awarded €500 to the most innovative presentation. This gathering in Paris not only showcased cutting-edge research but also strengthened our partnership with the IPGG Platform, reinforcing our dedication to advancing the field. Stay tuned for captivating moments and breakthroughs from the event!
### IPGG User Day 2025
On March 19th, we had the pleasure of sponsoring the second edition of the Plateforme Technologique IPGG (UAR 3750) User Day—a fantastic celebration of science and community! The event featured inspiring presentations from PhD students at Université PSL, representing ESPCI Paris – PSL, Institut Curie, Chimie ParisTech – PSL, École normale supérieure, and Mines Paris – PSL, highlighting cutting-edge research in microfluidics and biophysics.
Congratulations to Miguel Sambrano Lopez from Institut Curie, the winner of the *PhD Contest MT250’s*!
We’re thrilled to have witnessed such remarkable innovation and enthusiasm. The day was filled with engaging discussions and unforgettable moments shared with the scientific community.
## Useful Links
- IPGG Platform:
- IPGG website:
- IPGG Wikipedia: [https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Institut\_Pierre-Gilles\_de\_Gennes](https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Institut_Pierre-Gilles_de_Gennes)
- IPGG LinkedIn:
## Discover more Academic Partners
- [
### Brand Ambassadors
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/)
---
### [Microfluidic recirculation system ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/)
**Published:** March 22, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Benefit from the best performance and Fluigent’s expertise for your project
- High performance: pressure-based flow control allows for [highly responsive](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/) and [stable pulseless flow](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- Versatility: perform any protocol including injection, uni-directional recirculation, sampling, or perfusion
- Transportability: compactly packaged, the [pressure source](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/), [pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/), [flow rate sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/), and fluidic paths – the entire unit can be customized with injection molding techniques
- Sterility: does not require users to manipulate the chip or the system
## Microfluidic recirculation system: technology description
### Pressure-based flow control for stable pulseless recirculation
Recirculation may be accomplished with a peristaltic pump or [pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/). The latter has the advantage of providing a [more accurate and stable flow profile](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/). The flow from the peristaltic pump leads to pulsatile flow rates with oscillations of more than 40% of the set value (50 µL/min, see graph below). Fluigent pressure controllers have a negligible flow variation with improved response time. Using a peristaltic pump can increase the risk of cell detachment, loss of membrane integrity, and/or cell dysfunction due to pulsation. Pressure-based flow controllers offer [minimal shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/de/resources-support/expertise-de/application-notes-de/fluid-recirculation-for-cell-perfusion-with-reduced-shear-stress/) comparable to that in an in vivo environment.
For [microfluidic recirculation using pressure-based flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/de/resources-support/expertise-de/application-notes-de/fluid-recirculation-for-cell-perfusion-with-reduced-shear-stress/), one requires a pressure source, a pressure controller with 2 channels, a 2-position 6-port valve, and a flow rate sensor. This allows for flow between two reservoirs while maintaining a continuous unidirectional flow rate in the chamber.
Although this solution is functional and offers highly improved performance, additional efforts should be made in order to mitigate the limitations of using such systems compared to a peristaltic pump, including the additional liquid volume required for this setup, the complexity and footprint, and the overall system cost.
*Figure 1 Comparison between a peristaltic pump and a pressure controller*
### Fluigent’s new technology allows for automatic refills so that perfusion can be performed continuously
The microfluidic recirculation system directly monitors the volume left in the reservoirs and **integrates all components** needed in a functional microfluidic recirculation system **in** [**one compact device**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/) (that can be used with a microscope or in an incubator): pressure source, pressure-based flow controller, flow sensor (for flow rate regulation), reservoirs, all the tubing and electrical connections necessary, and a user interface (touchscreen). Users only have to provide the microfluidic module with the needed chip for their application.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/techno-omi-classical-recirculation-setup.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/techno-omi-fluigent-all-integrated-system.png)
*Figure 2: Recirculation classical setup vs Fluigent all-integrated system*
In this configuration, there is no need for a 2-position valve. Instead, there are two fluidic paths: one that goes through the chip or chamber, and one that directly links the reservoirs. In each path, the flow is feeding through in one direction with the use of **valves**. These enable the system to have flow going from one reservoir to the other only when required.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/techno-omi-recirculation-2-steps.png)*Figure 3 Fluid recirculation steps with check valves*
### Optical detection for long-term flow rate reliability
To automate the recirculation process, the device requires the ability to know the liquid level when the inlet reservoir is almost empty, or the outlet reservoir is almost full. The solution, developed by Fluigent, is based on optical level sensors (patented), it detects the presence or the absence of liquid in the reservoir.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/04/techno-omi-optical-level-sensor1.png)*Figure 4 Optical detection principle for a microfluidic recirculation system*
One, or several sensors can be mounted at different heights to detect the level of liquid for which the reservoir is considered “in need of refill”. Fluigent algorithms then adjust the pressure applied to the outlet recirculation reservoir to reach the check valve’s threshold and ensure a fast refill from the outlet reservoir to the inlet reservoir while interrupting the pressure applied to the inlet reservoir for this short while.
The liquid volumes measured by the optical sensors allow users to ensure the correct flow rates are measured with the flow sensors. The volume of solution in the reservoir, according to the measured flow rate and elapsed time, is compared to the information given by the flow sensor. If a drift is detected, the flow sensor will be automatically recalibrated.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/techno-omi-recirculation-module.png)**Figure 5 Recirculation module with internal valves**
### Unpluggable cartridge
Fluigent developed disposable cartridges to be used in microfluidic recirculation systems. They allow sterility and reproducibility for biological applications that require a contamination-free environment. Fluigent can also provide disposable and micro-patterned polymer-based fluidic parts that can be packaged and sterilized for medical applications.
The fabrication technology consists of a multiplayer bonding of plastic parts that can be either molded or machined to include valves to prevent backflow in the recirculation path (patented).
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/techno-omi-cartridge-dessin.png)*Figure 6 Integration of the disposable cartridge in a microfluidic recirculation system*
These components are easily integrated into a larger module with a one-click interconnection and locking technology (patented). Through an ingenious system,the cartridge can be placed and locked in its position or unlocked and removed easily. When the cartridge is in place, it is leakly-tight connected to the base manifold. Thus, neither air nor liquid can flow throughout the gasket.
*Figure 7 Cartridge locking procedure*
### Automation and software integration
The software can manage several recirculation modules from individual users and teams.
Users can directly write protocols via the interface as it is equipped with predefined steps such as injection, perfusion, sampling, or recirculation that help users build protocols. These steps are editable, and users have the ability to choose parameters such as volumes, flow rates, durations, or flow patterns.
The data can be visualized and analyzed via graphs in real time and afterward.
Fluigent developed a solution for remote control of the microfluidic recirculation system using WI-FI connectivity. It is possible for us to design a custom Android app to edit protocols, pair, and register devices, monitor experiments, and visualize results. These functionalities can also be implemented in a [web interface](https://omi.fluigent.com/login) so that it is reachable from any device that supports a browser.
For those who prefer on-site control or want more control, Fluigent can make an embedded touchscreen included in the microfluidic recirculation system with a dedicated interface with access to basic controls.
As for data management, Fluigent provides a cloud service to collect and store data that can be retrieved when needed.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/techno-omi-single-perfusion.jpg)*Figure 8 Example of single perfusion mode*
## Performance of Fluigent microfluidic recirculation system
With a set perfusion flow rate of 500 µL/min, the recirculation module can maintain a constant flow rate with regular refill steps for days without any offset or issue related to the emptying of the reservoirs. On the graph above, one can see the evolution of the flow rate during 7-hour portions of a 4-day experiment.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/techno-omi-graph-2.png)*Figure 9 Recirculation performed over several hours with Fluigent microfluidic recirculation system*
## Microfluidic applications related to microfluidic recirculation system
### Dynamic cell culture
Long-term culture of cells requires the continuous perfusion of medium and thus recirculation in the fluidic path. It is interesting to have an automated and maintenance-free solution for days-long or weeks-long processes. This process must be efficient to guarantee the conservation of cells in an environment with the right amount of reagents for the entire duration of the manipulation. \[1\]\[2\]\[3\]
### Live cell imaging and bioanalysis
To optically analyze live cells, scientists must keep the cells in given physiological conditions during the analysis while minimizing manual manipulations required for reagent injection, media exchange, or sample collection. Therefore, they need a module that is compact enough to be compatible with screening devices that also integrates a cell media microfluidic recirculation system to maintain the cells in the desired state over the longer term. \[3\]\[4\]\[5\]
### Organ-on-a-chip
The combination of a microfluidic recirculation system with microfluidic devices can model liquid/liquid or liquid/air interfaces and mimic physiological behaviors of different human organs such as gut, lung, or heart cells inside a microchip, which is useful for drug discovery and diagnostics.
- For organ-on-a-chip-based drug discovery, recirculating media allows continuous perfusion that reproduces natural phenomena in the human body. When looking for treatment against diseases, the technology is useful to study the organs’ response to drugs in the preclinical stage to identify and validate them and prevent clinical failures later on. \[6\]\[7\]
- [Organ-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/ "Organ-on-a-chip") development also paves the way for applications related to immunoassays, nucleic acid, or cell testing with automation, parallelization, and miniaturization of the processes. This is beneficial for point-of-care diagnostics, as the use of microfluidic recirculation permits rapid biomarker detection and thus, diagnosis of infectious diseases from sera extracted from blood with reduced costs. \[8\]\[9\]
## Related products
- [
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies with this automated and fully integrated system (Shear stress, flow rate, and pressure control).
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
- [
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Ressources
- [
### Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics
Read](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [
### The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics
Read](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [
### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Read](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology?
Read](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
## References
\[1\] A. R. Dixon, S. Rajan, C.-H. Kuo, T. Bersano, R. Wold, N. Futai, S. Takayama, G. Mehta, “Microfluidic device capable of medium recirculation for non-adherent cell culture”, *Biomicrofluidics*, 2014
\[2\] K. B. Chang, A.-S. Kameel, Y.-K. Cho, T. Shuichi, “Pumps for microfluidic cell culture”, *Electrophoresis*, 2014
\[3\] N. Futai, W. Gu, J. W. Song, S. Takayama, “Handheld recirculation system and customized media for microfluidic cell culture”, *Lab Chip*, 2006
\[4\] C. M. Puleo, H. C. Yeh, K. J. Liu, T. H. Wang, “Coupling confocal fluorescence detection and recirculating microfluidic control for single particle analysis in discrete nanoliter volumes”, *Lab Chip*, 2008
\[5\] F. Cantoni, G. Werr, L. Barbe, A. M. Porras, M. Tenje, “A microfluidic chip carrier including temperature control and perfusion system for long-term cell imaging”, *HarwareX*, 2021
\[6\] D. R. Taft, “The Isolated Perfused Rat Kidney Model: A Useful Tool for Drug Discovery and Development”, *Current Drug Discovery Technologies*, 2004
\[7\] E. W. Esch, A. Bahinski, D. Huh, “Organs-on-chips at the frontier of drug discovery”, *Nature Reviews Drug Discovery*, 2015
\[8\] J. Ducrée, “Next-generation microfluidic lab-on-a-chip platforms for point-of-care diagnostics and systems biology”, *Procedia Chemistry*, 2009
\[9\] N. Garg, D. Vallejo, D. Boyle, I. Nanayakkara, A. Teng, J. Pablo, X. Liang, D. Camerini, A. P. Lee, P. Felgner, “Integrated On-Chip Microfluidic Immunoassay for Rapid Biomarker Detection”, *Procedia Engineering*, 2016
---
### [Terms & Conditions of Sale](https://www.fluigent.com/legal-notices/)
**Published:** December 21, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## FLUIGENT
Okabé Bureau
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94270 LE KREMLIN BICETRE
FRANCE
Phone: +33 (0)1 77 01 82 68
Fax: +33 (0)1 77 01 82 70
Email : [contact@fluigent.com](https://fluigent.voll-gmbh.de/contact-us/)
## **1/ Scope of the terms and conditions of sale**
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All purchases of Products from Fluigent by Customer are subject to and expressly conditioned (i) upon these T&Cs that were communicated to Customer prior to the placement of its order, and (ii) upon Customer’s unconditional acceptance thereto. Acceptance by Customer may be evidenced by (i) the written or verbal consent by Customer or of any representative of Customer, (ii) Customer’s acceptance of delivery of the Products or payment of purchase price for the first instalment of the Products (if applicable), or any such acceptance by any representative of Customer, or (iii) other conduct by Customer or any representative of Customer consistent with acceptance of the T&Cs.
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## **3/ Products’ changes**
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## **5/ Delivery – Shipping**
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## **6/ Inspection – Return of Products**
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## **7/ Prices**
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## **8/ Payment**
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## **9/ IP Right – License – Technical services**
### **a/ IP Rights ownership**
Fluigent reserve all right, title and interest in all IP Rights pertaining to in all Products, Software and Documentation provided or made available to Customer. Customer shall not contest, either directly or indirectly by assisting a third party, Fluigent’s sole and exclusive rights, including ownership rights, in and to the IP rights. Furthermore, Customer shall not challenge Fluigent’s title to the IP Rights or otherwise do or cause to be done anything which contradicts with such sole and exclusive ownership of Fluigent.
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### **b/ License**
Subject to these T&Cs, including without limitation the specific limitations contained herein, and in consideration of Customer’s payment of the price of the Product, Fluigent grants Customer a limited, fully-paid, non-transferable, non-exclusive license,right to use, without any right to sublicense,the Software in machine-readable form, only in combination with or as part of the Products for which the Software has been provided, solely for so long as the Product is owned by Customer and its successors and permitted assigns.
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Customer’s rights under these T&Cs are conditional upon Customer not performing any actions that may require any Software, Products and/or any derivative work thereof, to be licensed under open source software license terms that may, for example, require disclosing source code, granting a license under IP Rights, such as granting a permission to develop derivative works, or granting other rights or assuming responsibilities commonly associated with open source software.
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If Customer is in default of any of the terms herein, Customer’s license will automatically terminate. Customer shall indemnify Fluigent against and hold Fluigent harmless from any damage or costs arising from or in connection with any violation or breach of the provisions of this Section 9.2 and Customer shall reimburse all costs and expenses incurred by Fluigent in defending any claim, demand, suit or proceeding arising from or in connection with such violation or breach, as set forth in Section 11.
For any third-party software licensed by Fluigent from other licensors that have been identified to Customer in writing in advance, such applicable licensor is a thirty-party beneficiary to the T&Cs with the right to enforce the obligations set forth herein and, for the purposes hereof, any such software shall be deemed Software.
### **c/ Technical services**
Fluigentshall provide technical assistance to Customer and conduct corrective maintenance for the Product to correct, within a reasonable time, incidents detected by the Supplier or on Customer’s reasonable request.
The Customer Support Service can be contacted by phone \[•\], by email to or via the contact form on Fluigent’s website.
Upon receipt of Support request from the Customer, Fluigent undertakes to use all reasonable endeavours during the Standard Service Hours to make such support, corrections, repairs or adjustments to or replace such parts of the Products as may be necessary to restore the Products to their proper operating condition. Whether this can be achieved remotely, at Fluigent facilities or by an on-site visit by a Fluigent engineer will be determined by the Service Offering provided in the quotation or with the Product, as the case may, or by Fluigent at its own discretion in any other cases.
Fluigent also make available to the Customer, updates and new versions of the Software and Firmware, whether this relates to updates or new versions intended to implement corrective patches, integrate new functions or technical improvements in the Product.
Customer shall agree to come back, on Fluigent’s recommendation, to a previous version to avoid regression in the performance of the Products or in case of non-compatibility of updates and new versions with the parameters for the Software or the Firmware.
Progressive maintenance services may also be performed on the request of the Customer, according to the conditions set forth in the specific quotation which will be issued by Fluigent and accepted by Customer.
## 10/ **Warranty**
### **a/ Quality and conformity**
Fluigent warrants to Customer that for a period of one (1) year following delivery of the Product to Customer, the Products, and the Software embedded, shall be free from defects in material or workmanship and shall substantially conform to Fluigent’s specifications for such Products and Software.
If a defect is reported to Fluigent during the one-year period following delivery of the Product to Fluigent, Fluigent’s sole and exclusive obligation, and Customer’s sole and exclusive right, with respect to claims under this warranty shall be limited, at Fluigent’s option, either (i) repair or replace the Product or Software or (ii) provide Customer with a refund of the portion of the applicable price paid by Customer to Fluigent for such Product.
Customer may ship Products returned under warranty claims to Fluigent’s designated facility only so long as the returns are in conformance with Fluigent’s then-current return material authorization policy and are accompanied by a duly completed return material authorization form issued by Fluigent. Where warranty adjustment is made, Fluigent will pay for freight expenses. Customer shall pay for returned Products that are not found to be defective or non-conforming together with the freight, testing and handling costs associated therewith. The non-conforming or defective Products shall become Fluigent’s property as soon as they have been replaced or credited for.
Notwithstanding the above, Fluigent shall have no obligations for breach of warranty if the alleged defect or non-conformance is found to have occurred as a result of: abnormal or unusual physical or electrical stress or environmental conditions, misuse, neglect, improper installation, accident, improper repair, alteration, modification, improper storage, improper transportation or improper handling, operation or use of the Products, after the risk of loss in the Products has passed to Customer.
The warranty term for a spare part used in repairing Productsis ninety (90) days from its installation in the Product or the remainder of the warranty term for the Product into which it is installed, whichever is longer. For the avoidance of doubt, the warranty term of a Product is not extended after its repair or replacement.
In case of replacement, Customer will pay Fluigent for a replacement part or Product when the replaced part or Product is not returned by Customer to Fluigent within ten (10) days after the date the replacement part or Product was delivered to Customer by Fluigent. Prices of the part replaced will be according to the current standard price in the Territory accessible on Fluigent’s website or communicated by Fluigent on Customer’s request.
Fluigent may provide an extension of warranty upon Customer’s request at additional cost. As the case may be, this extension of warranty will be mentioned in the order confirmation and in the Customer’s invoice. Each extension of warranty sold to Customer is related to one Serial Number (SN) of the concerned product. No extension of warranty will be accepted after the purchase of a Product.
**b/ Non infringement**
Fluigent, at its expense, shall: (i) defend against a claim in a legal proceeding brought by a third party against Customer that any Product or Software as furnished by Fluigent hereunder directly infringes the claimant’s patent or copyright; and (ii) hold Customer harmless against damages and costs awarded by final judgment in such proceeding (or agreed upon in a settlement to which Fluigent consents) to the extent directly and solely attributable to infringement by the Product or Software.
Fluigent shall have no obligation or liability to Customer under Section 10.2: (1) if Fluigent is not: (i) promptly notified in writing of the claim, (ii) given the sole right to control the defence and settlement of such claim, including the selection of counsel, and (iii) given full reasonable assistance and cooperation by Customer in such defence and settlement; (2) if the claim is made more than one (1) years after the date of delivery of the Product; (3) to the extent that any such claim arises from: (i) modification of the Product, (ii) design, specifications or instructions furnished by Customer, or (iii) the combination or use of the Product with any other product, software, service or technology; (4) for unauthorized use or distribution of the Product or use beyond the specifications of the Product; (5) to the extent that any such claim arises from Customer’s use, sale, offer for sale or importation of the Product after Fluigent’s notice to Customer that Customer should cease any such activity because the Product is, or is reasonably likely to become, the subject of a claim of infringement; (6) for any costs or expenses incurred by Customer without Fluigent’s prior written consent; (7) for infringement of any third party’s intellectual property rights with respect to which Fluigent has informed Customer or has published a statement that a separate license has to be obtained or that no license is granted or implied.
If any claim of infringement is brought against Fluigent as a result of Customer’s actions in connection with items (3) to (7) of this Section 10.2, Customer shall indemnify Fluigent against and hold Fluigent harmless from any damages or costs arising from or connected with such claim of infringement and shall reimburse all costs incurred by Fluigent in defending any claim, demand, suit or proceeding for such infringement, provided Fluigent gives Customer prompt notice in writing of any such suit or proceeding for infringement.
If any Product is, or in Fluigent’s opinion is likely to become, the subject of a claim of infringement, Fluigent shall have the right, without obligation and at its sole option, to: (i) procure for Customer the right to continue to use or sell such Product, (ii) replace or modify such Product in such a way as to make the modified Product non-infringing, (iii) ask Customer to return all such Products in Customer’s possession and upon such return credit Customer the sum paid to Fluigent by Customer for such Products, less appropriate depreciation.
### **c/ Warranty limitations**
No contractor, consultant, reseller, agent or employee of fluigent is authorized to make any modifications, extensions or additions to the limited warranties hereof. except as provided in sections 10.1 and 10.2 hereof, Fluigent’s product and software are provided “as is”, and all other express or implied conditions, representations and warranties, including without limitation any implied warranty of merchantability, warranty of fitness for a particular purpose (even if informed of such purpose), warranty for hidden defect, or warranty arising from a course of dealing, usage or trade practice, are hereby excluded to the fullest extent allowed by applicable law.
No warranty is made that Fluigent’s product or software will meet customer’s requirements, or that the operation of Fluigent’s product or software will be uninterrupted or error-free.
certain third-party software may be provided to customer along with certain Fluigent’s software. This third party software is provided “as is” and all limitations of warranties set forth herein apply to such third party software.
## **11/ Liability**
Customer shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Fluigent and its subsidiaries, Affiliates, successors, and assigns and their respective directors, officers, shareholders, and employees from and against any loss, injury, death, damage, liability, claim, deficiency, action, judgment, interest, award, penalty, fine, cost, fees (including import and export customs fees), or expense (including reasonable attorney and professional fees and costs, and the cost of enforcing any right to indemnification hereunder and the cost of pursuing any insurance providers) (“Claims”) arising out of or occurring in connection with the negligence or willful misconduct of Customer or its employees or agents, including but not limited to: (i) any misuse or modification of the Products by Customer or its employees or agents, (ii) any act (or failure to act) by Customer or its employees or agents in contravention of these T&Cs or any safety procedures or instructions that Fluigent provides to Customer or its employees or agents, or (iii) the failure to store, install, operate, or maintain the Products in accordance with Fluigent’s instructions.
Fluigent shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless Customer and its subsidiaries, affiliates, successors, and assigns and their respective directors, officers, shareholders, and employees (collectively, **“Customer Indemnitees”**) from and against any Claims brought against them by any third party and arising out of or relating to (1) the infringement of any third-party’s intellectual property rights, subject to the conditions and limitations of Section 10.2 hereof; (2) damage to property or bodily injury caused by the use of the Product in accordance with Fluigent’s Documentation, if, and only if, such Product have not been altered or modified by Customer or any third party; or (3) any negligence or willful misconduct of Fluigent; excluding in any of the foregoing cases, any Claim attributable to any Customer Indemnitee’s negligence, willful misconduct or breach of its obligations hereunder.
In no event shall fluigent or its licensors be liable for indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages (including lost profits, savings or data) whether based on contract, tort, product liability, or any other legal theory, even if fluigent has been advised of the possibility of such damages (except with respect to third party claims for which indemnification to customer is provided under section 10.2 hereof). subject to the foregoing exception, in no event shall company’s or its licensors’ liability under t&cs exceed the amount paid by customer for the products and software giving rise to the claim. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the terms and conditions, in the case where no amount was paid, company and its licensors shall have no liability for any damages whatsoever. The existence of more than one customer claim, or customer claims involving more than one product, shall not enlarge or extend the above specified limits.
In addition, all claims from customer must be brought within one (1) year of delivery, regardless of their nature. any claim brought after that one (1) year term will be deemed invalid, customer expressly waiving its right to introduce such a claim once such one (1) year term is over.
The limitations and exclusions set forth above in this Section 11 shall only apply to the extent permitted by applicable mandatory law.
## **12/ Confidentiality**
Customer shall, at all time, maintain as confidential all Confidential Information and shall exercise the same degree of care to protect them from disclosure that it uses to protect its own confidential information.
Customer shall not, without Fluigent’s prior written consent, disclose or make any Confidential Information available in any form to any person, except its employees, consultants, or permitted operators, whose access is necessary to enable Customer to exercise its rights under the T&Cs and who have been advised of the confidential nature of such Confidential Information.
Customer shall only use the Confidential Information as necessary to perform its obligations hereunder and shall return or destroy it at the request of Fluigent.
Customer shall be permitted to make such disclosures to the public or to any governmental authority to the extent required by a court order or if otherwise required by law, provided that Customer gives Fluigent prior written notice of the disclosure and uses reasonable legal efforts to resist disclosing the Confidential Information.
Any violation of these confidentiality obligations shall entitle Fluigent to claim for the payment of any damage, loss or expense, including legal fees and procedural costs, resulting from the breach of the obligations provided for in this Section 12.
Customer acknowledges that a breach of the obligations set forth in this Section 12 may cause irreparable harm to Fluigent, for which damages may be difficult to ascertain, and therefore Customer hereby agrees that Fluigent shall be entitled to seek equitable relief by means of mandatory injunctions. This right of equitable relief is in addition to any other rights (such as right to damages and interest) that may be available to Fluigent.
The confidentiality obligations and restrictions on use arising from this Section 12 shall remain in force for a period of five (5) years after the termination of the relationship between the Parties for any reason whatsoever.
## **13/ Compliance with laws**
Each party hereto represents that it is duly authorized to enter into these T&Cs and represents that with respect to its performance hereunder, it will comply with all applicable national, federal, state and local laws.
If the delivery of Products under these T&Cs is subject to the granting of an export or import license by a government and/or any governmental authority under any applicable law or regulation, or otherwise restricted or prohibited due to export or import control laws or regulations, Fluigent may suspend its obligations and Customer’s rights regarding such delivery until such license is granted or for the duration of such restriction and/or prohibition, respectively, and Fluigent may even cancel the order related to such Products, without incurring any liability towards Customer. As an example, The \[Importer/Buyer\] shall not sell, export or re-export, directly or indirectly, to the Russian Federation or for use in the Russian Federation any goods supplied under or in connection with this Agreement that fall under the scope of Article 12g of Council Regulation (EU) No 833/2014.
Furthermore, if an end-user statement is required, Fluigent shall inform Customer immediately thereof and Customer shall provide Fluigent with such document upon Fluigent’s first written request; if an import license is required, Customer shall inform Fluigent immediately thereof and Customer shall provide Fluigent with such document as soon as it is available.
By accepting Fluigent’s offer and/or accepting any Products, Customer agrees that it will not deal with the Products and/or Software and/or Documentation related thereto in violation of any applicable export or import control laws and regulations.
## **14/ Miscellaneous**
### **a/ Assignment**
No rights or obligations of Customer hereunder or arising out of the T&Cs may be assigned without the prior written consent of Fluigent. Any such assignment without Fluigent’s prior written consent shall be null and void.
Fluigent’s duties, rights and obligations hereunder may be assigned, and Fluigent’s duties hereunder may be delegated, to any one or more of its Affiliates in whole or in part. Fluigent reserves the right to assign, and Customer acknowledges and consents to any assignment of, the accounts receivable resulting from the T&Cs to one or more third parties as part of a factoring arrangement or otherwise.
The T&Cs shall be binding upon, inure to the benefit of, and be enforceable by, the permitted successors and assigns.
### **b/ Notices**
All payments by check, correspondence and notices hereunder shall be in writing and given by registered or certified mail, postage and registration fees prepaid, return receipt requested, or overnight mail by an internationally recognized courier service, and shall be deemed given when so mailed or sent to Customer at the address set forth in the order confirmation or such other address as either party may notify the other Party pursuant to this Section 14.2.
In case of notification by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt, it will be deemed to have been validly notified on the day of the first presentation of the registered letter. Rejection or other refusal to accept or the inability to deliver because of changed address of which no notice was given shall be deemed to constitute receipt of the notice, consent or communication sent.
### **c/ Force Majeure event**
Fluigent shall not be deemed to be in default of its contractual obligations whilst performance thereof is prevented by a Force Majeure Event. Events of Force Majeure are events beyond the control of the Party and which were not reasonably foreseeable and avoidable. It is expressly agreed between the Parties that Force Majeure Event shall include(without being limited to)delays and non-deliveries or non-acceptance caused by strikes, work stoppages, riots, wars, fires, acts of God, accidents, governmental orders and regulations, curtailment of or failure in obtaining sufficient electric power, lack of transportation or distributive facilities, any governmental restrictions to travel, transport and work in response to the outbreak of any coronavirus pandemic or other pandemic, and other contingencies beyond Fluigent’s reasonable control.
### **d/ Severability**
If any provision of the T&Cs shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions shall not be affected or impaired thereby. The paragraph headings herein are for convenience only; they form no part of the T&Cs and shall not affect their interpretation.
### **e/ Waiver**
Fluigent’s failure to enforce any term or condition of the T&Cs or to exercise any right arising hereunder shall not constitute a waiver of Fluigent’s right to enforce such terms or conditions or exercise such right thereafter. All rights and remedies under this order are cumulative and are in addition to any other rights and remedies Fluigent may have at law or in equity. Any waiver of default by Customer hereunder shall be in writing and shall not operate as a waiver of any other default or of the same default thereafter.
### **f/ Governing law and jurisdiction**
The T&Cs shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the law of the country where Fluigent has its head office, excluding (a) any conflicts of law rules or principles that might refer the governance or construction of the T&Cs to the laws of any jurisdiction other than the French Republic.
In case of a dispute arising from the existence, the validity, the interpretation, the performance or the termination for whatever cause of these T&Cs or based on any right arising out of these T&Cs or on the commercial relationship between the Parties, the Parties shall make every effort to reach a settlement.
If a settlement cannot be reached within three (3) months of the date of the initial notification relating to the dispute, the dispute shall be referred to the competent courts of the country where Fluigent has its head office. Such relevant courts shall also have jurisdiction on interim measures including for purposes of protective measures as well as summary procedures, ex parte procedures, impleader or multiplicity of defendants.
---
### [Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
**Published:** October 18, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Content:**
**This technology can be integrated in any custom project. Users will receive the following benefits:**
- **Contact-free:** suitable for use when sterility is required
- **No calibration needed:** liquid-independent
- **Suitable for Industrial use:** can be integrated into many devices and systems
- **High precision and accuracy:** Fluigent regulation control
## How does our non-intrusive liquid handling system work?
### Fluigent expertise for fluid flow rate adapted to gas flow rate
Thanks to Fluigent’s expertise, including [**“self-learning” algorithms**](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/?page_id=43585) and **calibrations,** our non-intrusive flow sensing technology determines the fluid flow rate from gas flow rate measurements. Using **internally developed software**, the input pressure is automatically adjusted by our pressure controller to **monitor or control the liquid fluid flow rate in real-time**.
*Figure 1 Non intrusive flow sensing technology principle*
*Fig 2 Fluigent engineered technology*
The **technology** consists of a **uniquely engineered assembly** of **sensing**, **pneumatic** and **electronic** elements that allow for precise volumetric flow rate measurement. Thanks to the conception of a **zero leakage** (completely sealed) system, the gas flow rate is proportional to the fluid flow rate.
### No contact with the fluidic path
As described in figure 3, the **technology is located at the pneumatic part of the system**, between **the regulated pressure controller** and the **fluidic reservoir** (for more information about pressure-based flow control, see our [**expertise page**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/)). The flow sensing technology is never in contact with fluids.
*Fig 3 Non intrusive flow sensing Integration Principle*
### No fluid-calibration needed
Traditional microfluidic flow sensing technologies are based on a calorimetric measurement principle and depend on fluid properties. They are generally calibrated for aqueous fluids, and additional calibrations need to be performed by the user. As explained above, with the new device, the fluid flow rate is determined by measuring the gas flow rate and is independent of the fluid properties (density, viscosity, surface tension, etc.). It makes this non-intrusive flow sensing technology universal and fluid calibration-free.
**This is a technology of choice if one:**
- Is working in a sterile/contamination-free environment
- Is working with several types of fluid: aqueous fluids (e.g. as water, media, PBS), blood, plasma, oils, surfactants, alcohols …
- Performs continuous operations with slow flow response time needs
## A contamination-free flow sensing technology unlocking new features
- Technical specifications
- Schematics
- Comparison NIFS and FS series
**PERFORMANCE**
**Calibrated media**Air**Range**100 μL/min to 10 mL/min**Accuracy**5% reading**Lowest detectable flow increment**5 μL/min**Response time**10 s for reading
10 to 30 seconds for regulation (depends on the volume to control and the setup)
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions (L\*W\*H)**99.85 x 45.00 x 33.50 mm**Weight**117 g**Maximum pressure**2 bar**Penumatic connector ports**4 mm OD**Length of the electrical cable**1 m
**COMPATIBILITY**
**Products**FOEM: via micro-USB or via USB-A connected to computer
POEM/PX: via USB-A connected to computer
NOT COMPATIBLE WITH Flowboard OEM**Accessories**2 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
15 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
50 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
Use with F OEM
Use with PX series
**Product****NIFS**[**FS series**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)**Invasiveness**Noninvasive: connected to the pneumatic pathInvasive: connected to the fluidic path**Calibration**Not requiredRequired for fluids with different viscosity than water**Flow rate range**100 µL/min to 10 mL/min75 nL/min to 10 mL/min**Maximum pressure**2 bar15 bar**Response time**10 to 30 sec\*< 1 sec\***Flow stability**ExcellentExcellent**Recommended use**– Control of different liquid (no calibration/cleaning steps)
– Long-term processes that risk contamination or clogging (non-intrusive)– Manipulation of aqueous fluids only (no calibration step)
– Processes with many flow rate changes (excellent response time and stability at low flow rates)\*Depends on the volume to control and the setup
---
## Applications of the non-invasive liquid handling system
Emerging applications make use of more complex fluidic operations and require compact systems. Our technology is fit for such applications as it is fully connected, compact, and provides excellent fluidic performance.
- **Cell biology**: biological applications such as cell culture under perfusion, immunostaining, organoid culture, organ-on-a-chip, [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/drug-discovery/), [single-cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/), cell cytometry and other applications that require a sterile environment. When using fluids such as culture media, PBS, buffers, blood, or plasma, every component in the fluidic path should be disposable, or able to be sterilized. Fluigent’s new non-intrusive flow sensing technology is ideal for such applications as it is not in contact with the fluids in play.
- **Microfluidic droplet generation**: When generating droplets, several types of fluids with different properties are used (aqueous solutions, oil, surfactants, alcohols). Using traditional flow sensing technology requires fluid calibration to be performed for every fluid. This step should be repeated periodically as fluid properties can differ from one batch to another. Inaccurate calibration affects the flow rate and the size of the droplets. The **new sensing technology** is ideal as **no fluid calibration step is required**, allowing one to **precisely control flow rate** for all types of liquids.
- **(bio)chemical and molecular analysis**: Chemical and molecular components can be screened using droplet microfluidic technology for drug, enzyme, or food analysis. The advantages of using this non-intrusive flow sensing technology are listed above.
- **Quality monitoring and system failure prevention**: flow sensors monitor fluidic protocol in real-time and warn the user of unexpected flow rate fluctuations.
## Expertises & resources
- [
### Contamination-free Liquid Handling System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Microfluidic Drug Discovery
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
## Related products
---
### [Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
**Published:** October 18, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Content:**
**This technology can be integrated in any custom project. Users will receive the following benefits:**
- **Contact-free:** suitable for use when sterility is required
- **No calibration needed:** liquid-independent
- **Suitable for Industrial use:** can be integrated into many devices and systems
- **High precision and accuracy:** Fluigent regulation control
## How does our non-intrusive liquid handling system work?
### Fluigent expertise for fluid flow rate adapted to gas flow rate
Thanks to Fluigent’s expertise, including [**“self-learning” algorithms**](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/) and **calibrations,** our non-intrusive flow sensing technology determines the fluid flow rate from gas flow rate measurements. Using **internally developed software**, the input pressure is automatically adjusted by our pressure controller to **monitor or control the liquid fluid flow rate in real-time**.
*Figure 1 Non intrusive flow sensing technology principle*
*Fig 2 Fluigent engineered technology*
The **technology** consists of a **uniquely engineered assembly** of **sensing**, **pneumatic** and **electronic** elements that allow for precise volumetric flow rate measurement. Thanks to the conception of a **zero leakage** (completely sealed) system, the gas flow rate is proportional to the fluid flow rate.
### No contact with the fluidic path
As described in figure 3, the **technology is located at the pneumatic part of the system**, between **the regulated pressure controller** and the **fluidic reservoir** (for more information about pressure-based flow control, see our [**expertise page**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/)). The flow sensing technology is never in contact with fluids.
*Fig 3 Non intrusive flow sensing Integration Principle*
### No fluid-calibration needed
Traditional microfluidic flow sensing technologies are based on a calorimetric measurement principle and depend on fluid properties. They are generally calibrated for aqueous fluids, and additional calibrations need to be performed by the user. As explained above, with the new device, the fluid flow rate is determined by measuring the gas flow rate and is independent of the fluid properties (density, viscosity, surface tension, etc.). It makes this non-intrusive flow sensing technology universal and fluid calibration-free.
**This is a technology of choice if one:**
- Is working in a sterile/contamination-free environment
- Is working with several types of fluid: aqueous fluids (e.g. as water, media, PBS), blood, plasma, oils, surfactants, alcohols …
- Performs continuous operations with slow flow response time needs
## A contamination-free flow sensing technology unlocking new features
- Technical specifications
- Schematics
- Comparison NIFS and FS series
**PERFORMANCE**
**Calibrated media**Air**Range**100 μL/min to 10 mL/min**Accuracy**5% reading**Lowest detectable flow increment**5 μL/min**Response time**10 s for reading
10 to 30 seconds for regulation (depends on the volume to control and the setup)
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions (L\*W\*H)**99.85 x 45.00 x 33.50 mm**Weight**117 g**Maximum pressure**2 bar**Penumatic connector ports**4 mm OD**Length of the electrical cable**1 m
**COMPATIBILITY**
**Products**FOEM: via micro-USB or via USB-A connected to computer
POEM/PX: via USB-A connected to computer
NOT COMPATIBLE WITH Flowboard OEM**Accessories**2 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
15 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
50 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
Use with F OEM
Use with PX series
**Product****NIFS**[**FS series**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)**Invasiveness**Noninvasive: connected to the pneumatic pathInvasive: connected to the fluidic path**Calibration**Not requiredRequired for fluids with different viscosity than water**Flow rate range**100 µL/min to 10 mL/min75 nL/min to 10 mL/min**Maximum pressure**2 bar15 bar**Response time**10 to 30 sec\*< 1 sec\***Flow stability**ExcellentExcellent**Recommended use**– Control of different liquid (no calibration/cleaning steps)
– Long-term processes that risk contamination or clogging (non-intrusive)– Manipulation of aqueous fluids only (no calibration step)
– Processes with many flow rate changes (excellent response time and stability at low flow rates)\*Depends on the volume to control and the setup
---
## Applications of the non-invasive liquid handling system
Emerging applications make use of more complex fluidic operations and require compact systems. Our technology is fit for such applications as it is fully connected, compact, and provides excellent fluidic performance.
- **Cell biology**: biological applications such as cell culture under perfusion, immunostaining, organoid culture, organ-on-a-chip, [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/drug-discovery/), [single-cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/), cell cytometry and other applications that require a sterile environment. When using fluids such as culture media, PBS, buffers, blood, or plasma, every component in the fluidic path should be disposable, or able to be sterilized. Fluigent’s new non-intrusive flow sensing technology is ideal for such applications as it is not in contact with the fluids in play.
- **Microfluidic droplet generation**: When generating droplets, several types of fluids with different properties are used (aqueous solutions, oil, surfactants, alcohols). Using traditional flow sensing technology requires fluid calibration to be performed for every fluid. This step should be repeated periodically as fluid properties can differ from one batch to another. Inaccurate calibration affects the flow rate and the size of the droplets. The **new sensing technology** is ideal as **no fluid calibration step is required**, allowing one to **precisely control flow rate** for all types of liquids.
- **(bio)chemical and molecular analysis**: Chemical and molecular components can be screened using droplet microfluidic technology for drug, enzyme, or food analysis. The advantages of using this non-intrusive flow sensing technology are listed above.
- **Quality monitoring and system failure prevention**: flow sensors monitor fluidic protocol in real-time and warn the user of unexpected flow rate fluctuations.
## Expertises & resources
- [
### Contamination-free Liquid Handling System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Microfluidic Drug Discovery
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Management Unit
P-OEM
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
- [
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
---
### [Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
**Published:** October 18, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Content:**
**This technology can be integrated in any custom project. Users will receive the following benefits:**
- **Contact-free:** suitable for use when sterility is required
- **No calibration needed:** liquid-independent
- **Suitable for Industrial use:** can be integrated into many devices and systems
- **High precision and accuracy:** Fluigent regulation control
## How does our non-intrusive liquid handling system work?
### Fluigent expertise for fluid flow rate adapted to gas flow rate
Thanks to Fluigent’s expertise, including [**“self-learning” algorithms**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/weiliukong-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/) and **calibrations,** our non-intrusive flow sensing technology determines the fluid flow rate from gas flow rate measurements. Using **internally developed software**, the input pressure is automatically adjusted by our pressure controller to **monitor or control the liquid fluid flow rate in real-time**.
*Figure 1 Non intrusive flow sensing technology principle*
*Fig 2 Fluigent engineered technology*
The **technology** consists of a **uniquely engineered assembly** of **sensing**, **pneumatic** and **electronic** elements that allow for precise volumetric flow rate measurement. Thanks to the conception of a **zero leakage** (completely sealed) system, the gas flow rate is proportional to the fluid flow rate.
### No contact with the fluidic path
As described in figure 3, the **technology is located at the pneumatic part of the system**, between **the regulated pressure controller** and the **fluidic reservoir** (for more information about pressure-based flow control, see our [**expertise page**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/)). The flow sensing technology is never in contact with fluids.
*Fig 3 Non intrusive flow sensing Integration Principle*
### No fluid-calibration needed
Traditional microfluidic flow sensing technologies are based on a calorimetric measurement principle and depend on fluid properties. They are generally calibrated for aqueous fluids, and additional calibrations need to be performed by the user. As explained above, with the new device, the fluid flow rate is determined by measuring the gas flow rate and is independent of the fluid properties (density, viscosity, surface tension, etc.). It makes this non-intrusive flow sensing technology universal and fluid calibration-free.
**This is a technology of choice if one:**
- Is working in a sterile/contamination-free environment
- Is working with several types of fluid: aqueous fluids (e.g. as water, media, PBS), blood, plasma, oils, surfactants, alcohols …
- Performs continuous operations with slow flow response time needs
## A contamination-free flow sensing technology unlocking new features
- Technical specifications
- Schematics
- Comparison NIFS and FS series
**PERFORMANCE**
**Calibrated media**Air**Range**100 μL/min to 10 mL/min**Accuracy**5% reading**Lowest detectable flow increment**5 μL/min**Response time**10 s for reading
10 to 30 seconds for regulation (depends on the volume to control and the setup)
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions (L\*W\*H)**99.85 x 45.00 x 33.50 mm**Weight**117 g**Maximum pressure**2 bar**Penumatic connector ports**4 mm OD**Length of the electrical cable**1 m
**COMPATIBILITY**
**Products**FOEM: via micro-USB or via USB-A connected to computer
POEM/PX: via USB-A connected to computer
NOT COMPATIBLE WITH Flowboard OEM**Accessories**2 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
15 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
50 mL reservoir + P-CAP screw
Use with F OEM
Use with PX series
**Product****NIFS**[**FS series**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)**Invasiveness**Noninvasive: connected to the pneumatic pathInvasive: connected to the fluidic path**Calibration**Not requiredRequired for fluids with different viscosity than water**Flow rate range**100 µL/min to 10 mL/min75 nL/min to 10 mL/min**Maximum pressure**2 bar15 bar**Response time**10 to 30 sec\*< 1 sec\***Flow stability**ExcellentExcellent**Recommended use**– Control of different liquid (no calibration/cleaning steps)
– Long-term processes that risk contamination or clogging (non-intrusive)– Manipulation of aqueous fluids only (no calibration step)
– Processes with many flow rate changes (excellent response time and stability at low flow rates)\*Depends on the volume to control and the setup
---
## Applications of the non-invasive liquid handling system
Emerging applications make use of more complex fluidic operations and require compact systems. Our technology is fit for such applications as it is fully connected, compact, and provides excellent fluidic performance.
- **Cell biology**: biological applications such as cell culture under perfusion, immunostaining, organoid culture, organ-on-a-chip, [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/drug-discovery/), [single-cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/), cell cytometry and other applications that require a sterile environment. When using fluids such as culture media, PBS, buffers, blood, or plasma, every component in the fluidic path should be disposable, or able to be sterilized. Fluigent’s new non-intrusive flow sensing technology is ideal for such applications as it is not in contact with the fluids in play.
- **Microfluidic droplet generation**: When generating droplets, several types of fluids with different properties are used (aqueous solutions, oil, surfactants, alcohols). Using traditional flow sensing technology requires fluid calibration to be performed for every fluid. This step should be repeated periodically as fluid properties can differ from one batch to another. Inaccurate calibration affects the flow rate and the size of the droplets. The **new sensing technology** is ideal as **no fluid calibration step is required**, allowing one to **precisely control flow rate** for all types of liquids.
- **(bio)chemical and molecular analysis**: Chemical and molecular components can be screened using droplet microfluidic technology for drug, enzyme, or food analysis. The advantages of using this non-intrusive flow sensing technology are listed above.
- **Quality monitoring and system failure prevention**: flow sensors monitor fluidic protocol in real-time and warn the user of unexpected flow rate fluctuations.
## Expertises & resources
- [
### Contamination-free Liquid Handling System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Microfluidic Drug Discovery
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
## Related products
---
### [Brand Ambassadors](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/)
**Published:** March 3, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Want to visit Fluigent’s products in your university? Contact Fluigent’s brand ambassador!
In need of help, don’t hesitate to contact Fluigent’s corresponding sales representative.
Ambassador may reject the product visit request from the researchers who are out of Ambassador’s own university.
[Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us)
Dr. Colin J Chu
University College London
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador1)
Prof. Artem Mishchenko
University of Manchester
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador2)
Dr. Huizhi Wang
Imperial College London
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador3)
Dr. Mootaz Salman
University of Oxford
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador4)
Dr. Alexandre Grassart
Institut Pasteur de Lille
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador5)
Prof. Nunzio Denora
University of Bari “Aldo Moro”
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador6)
Dr. Anthony Treizebre
University of Lille
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador7)
Dr. Felix Kurth
CSEM
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador8)
Dr Thanh Duc MAI
Université Paris-Saclay
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador9)
Prof. Philip Davies
University of Birmingham
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador10)
Prof. Jinyao Tang
University of Hong Kong
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador11)
Dr Cécile MONTEUX
ESPCI Paris-PSL
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/#ambassador12)
## University College London, UK
[Visit personal page](https://iris.ucl.ac.uk/iris/browse/profile?upi=CHUXX55)
[Laboratory](https://colinchulab.com/)
### Dr Colin J Chu
Colin is an academic ophthalmologist at UCL Institute of Ophthalmology funded by the Wellcome Trust as a Clinical Research Career Development Fellow.
He was an undergraduate at the University of Cambridge prior to medical school at Oxford University and undertook his PhD at UCL with Prof Robin Ali. Subsequently he moved to the University of Bristol as a NIHR Academic Clinical Lecturer working with Prof Andrew Dick.
He has spent time in the US at the University of Rochester hosted by Dr Jesse Schallek and as a Fulbright scholar at the National Institutes of Health working with Dr Ron Germain on advanced tissue imaging approaches.
His ongoing research spans gene therapy and in vivo imaging of immune cells using adaptive optics, OCT and fluorescent dye labelling to better understand ocular inflammation.
He is an Honorary Consultant Ophthalmologist at Moorfields Eye Hospital with his clinical practice in Uveitis.
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
“As a clinician and immunologist with an interest in imaging, I was involved in developing a new technique for multiplexed immunohistochemistry. We wanted to automate the process by adding a microfluidic solution, but I had no experience with this technology. The ARIA system fit our needs and was incredibly simple and intuitive to use. The software is well-designed and readily interfaced with our microscope. Fluigent provided support throughout setup and transformed what seemed a large undertaking, into an incredibly simple task.”
**Colin Chu, University College London**
## University of Manchester, UK
[Visit personal page](https://research.manchester.ac.uk/en/persons/artem.mishchenko)
[Laboratory](https://www.2dmatters.com/)
### Prof. Artem Mishchenko
Artem Mishchenko is a professor of condensed matter physics, Faculty of Science and Engineering, University of Manchester. He got PhD in Molecular Electronics in 2010 at the Faculty of Science, Bern University, Switzerland. He is a leading expert in physics of van der Waals materials. His research is centred on quantum phenomena in a large variety of systems: from quantum transport in van der Waals materials to molecules and ion transport to the structure of water in confined geometries.
He has published over 100 papers, nearly half in high-profile journals such as Science, Nature and Nature group, PNAS, Nano Letters, and PRL. His h-index is 49, with >27000 citations, according to Google Scholar.
He has been selected Highly Cited Researcher by Clarivate Analytics for the past five years – from 2018 to 2022. He has been recognised internationally – he received the prestigious EMFL Prize in 2018 and the Blavatnik Award for Young Scientists in 2021, for “Revealing unusual quantum phenomena in vertical, multilayer stacks of two-dimensional materials, in particular those that hold great potential in the development of novel electronic transistors for light-emitting diodes (LEDs), high-speed electronics, and information storage.” He has secured major external funding, including the highly prestigious ERC Consolidator Grant (2020-2025), and EPSRC Early Career Fellowship (2016-2021).
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
“We are really happy with Flugent microfluidics control systems: they are very EZ to use; they are also robust and reliable. We want to highlight in particular the user-friendliness of the software (OxyGEN), and the ease with which one can implement their own third-party programs to embed Fluigent controllers to a bigger setup comprising multiple units from different manufacturers. .”
**Prof. Artem Mischenko, University of Manchester**
## Imperial College London, UK
[Visit personal page](https://www.imperial.ac.uk/people/huizhi.wang)
### Dr. Huizhi Wang
Huizhi Wang is a senior lecturer in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and a member of the Electrochemical Science & Engineering Group. She received her PhD in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Hong Kong in 2012. She then worked at the University of Hong Kong as a postdoctoral fellow until 2014. Prior to joining Imperial College, she was an assistant professor in the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences at Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh.
Her research interest lies in electrochemical energy engineering with a particular focus on the thermofluid aspects of electrochemical energy conversion and storage systems including fuel cells, batteries and electrolysers. She is also interested in advanced manufacturing (e.g., microfluidic-based fabrication, additive manufacturing) and diagnostic techniques for electrochemical energy applications.
She has over 100 journal publications and 8 patents. Her research is supported by EPSRC, EU H2020, Scottish Funding Council and industrial sponsors.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
“We came to Fluigent when we were building an automated microfluidic platform for screening chemical reactions. Fluigent products are powerful in precise control of the flow conditions and can guarantee the performance of our platform. The pump system is user-friendly and can be extended to complex experimental systems where multiple pumps are needed. The above merits have made our experimental design process smooth and easy.”
**Dr. Huizhi Wang, Imperial College London**
## University of Oxford, UK
[Visit personal page](https://www.dpag.ox.ac.uk/team/mootaz-salman)
[Kavli Institute page ](https://kavli.web.ox.ac.uk/people/mootaz-salman)
### Dr. Mootaz Salman
After graduating with a Bachelor of Pharmacy with Honours (BPharm(Hons)) from the University of Mosul, I studied for Masters and Doctoral degrees at Sheffield Hallam University. Working with Professor Nicola Woodroofe and Dr Matthew Conner, my PhD project investigated the mechanisms of water channel translocation in human brain cells. I discovered a novel pharmacological framework for developing new drugs to treat traumatic brain injury, brain oedema and stroke.
I held my first postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s Hospital working with Professor Tom Kirchhausen. The project was in collaboration with Biogen®. I aimed to understand the cellular physiology of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) in order to exploit the mechanisms involved in improving the effectiveness of therapeutic antibodies. The project involved developing an in vitro microphysiological 3D model that can be used for multiple high-resolution imaging modalities. I used transmission electron microscopy (TEM), 3D live fluorescence imaging, spinning disk confocal microscopy and advanced lattice light sheet microscopy (LLSM) to study the trans-BBB trafficking of fluorescently-labelled therapeutic proteins and antibodies.
I joined the Wade-Martins group in late 2020. As part of Oxford Parkinson’s Disease Centre (OPDC), the aim of my project was to contribute to the development of novel therapeutic target discovery for Parkinson’s. I used CRISPR/Cas9 genome engineering of highly physiologically-relevant human iPSC lines from Parkinson’s patients differentiated into dopaminergic neurons to investigate molecular disease mechanisms and validate new therapeutic hits. The project was in collaboration with GSK® which offered an exciting opportunity to work at the translational interface of academic and industry target discovery and drug development.
**Research Interests**
I am a Research Lecturer and Leverhulme Trust Fellow. I am interested in investigating mechanisms of blood-brain barrier (dys)function in neurodegenerative diseases using patient-derived stem cells, gene editing (CRISPR-Cas 9) and organ-on-a-chip technologies.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
## Institut Pasteur de Lille, INSERM / CIIL, FR
[Visit personal page](https://www.insb.cnrs.fr/fr/personne/alexandre-grassart)
[Visit Institute page ](https://pasteur-lille.fr/)
### Dr. Alexandre GRASSART
At the borders between microbiology, mechanobiology and bioengineering, my research aims to determine the role of physical forces during host-microbe interactions. As an ATIP-Avenir laureate and INSERM researcher, we established our laboratory on the campus of the Institut Pasteur of Lille within the Center for Infection and Immunity of Lille. We are using extensively microfluidics, live-cell imaging, and stem cells-based approaches to develop state-of-the-art in vitro models biomimicking the microenvironment of human organs on a chip. These innovative microphysiological systems allow us to decipher new mechanistic pathways used by pathogens to infect human intestinal and respiratory tissues.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
Precision, robustness, and fidelity are essential in our research on organ-on-chip technologies developed in the lab. Using EZ pressure controllers for many years, I keep being amazed by Fluigent for delivering all these qualities in their pressure-based microfluidics products. On top of this excellence, EZ lines are very user friendly!
**Dr. Alexandre GRASSART, Institut Pasteur de Lille**
## University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Department of Pharmacy – Pharmaceutical Sciences, IT
[Visit personal page](https://www.facebook.com/phartecolab)
[More about Phartecolab](https://instagram.com/phartecolab?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==)
### Prof. Nunzio Denora
Nunzio Denora received a degree in Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Technology at the University of Bari “Aldo Moro” in 2001 and obtained his PhD in Pharmaceutical Technology from the University of Palermo in 2004. After a postdoctoral position at the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry of Kansas University, US (2005-2006), under the supervision of Prof. Valentino J. Stella, he was appointed as an assistant professor and research scientist in Pharmaceutical Technology at the Department of Pharmacy – Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of Bari.
Since 2023 he is a full professor in Pharmaceutical Technology heading a research laboratory of advanced drug delivery systems. He is a Scientific Advisor Board Member for pharmaceutical companies and for the European Paediatric Translational Research Infrastructure – EPTRI. He is the Coordinator of the Industrial PhD Course in “Sustainable technologies for medicines and diagnostics development” and is a board member for the Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and other journals in the pharmaceutics field.
His research concerns the development of drug delivery systems by using innovative technologies such as 3D printing, prilling technology and microfluidics techniques.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
## University of Lille, CNRS IEMN, HCS Pharma, FR
[Visit the university of Lille](http://nonlineaire.univ-lille1.fr/AIVBS/membres/17/)
[More about CNRS IEMN](https://www.iemn.fr/la-recherche/les-groupes/biomems/members)
[More about HCS Pharma]()
### Dr. Anthony TREIZEBRE
Dr Anthony TREIZEBRE is an assistant professor at University of Lille 1 and researcher at the IEMN CNRS Institute begin 2007. After a first research topic dedicated to the signature of biological entities by high frequency spectroscopy (THz) in microfluidic environment. He has developed a track record expertise on micro-fabrication in clean room of instrumented microfluidic components with sensors and actuators.
During the last four years, he has acquired a real expertise on the conception of endothelial barrier on chip to study the interactions cellular and the development of “Organ on Chip” on the scope of many pathologies like Cancer, Diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
I’ve been using Fluigent systems on a daily basis for ten years now, in a wide range of applications (oncology, metabolism, pharmaceuticals), and I really appreciate their ease of use, robustness and precision. As a “fan” of this equipment, I was able to test the entire product range (pumps (EZ, MFCS), switches, flow Sensors) as well as platforms such as ARIA and the new OMI. An important point is the training of students, and to this end I’ve been running practical microfluidic work with flow equipment for the past 3 years, with extremely positive feedback from students. Last but not least, I’d like to emphasize the quality of the technical support and customer care provided by the Fluigent teams, which is extremely pleasant.
**Dr. Anthony TREIZEBRE, University of Lille**
## CSEM, CH
[Visit the innovation center page](https://www.csem.ch/)
### Dr. Felix Kurth
Felix is group leader at CSEM, a Swiss technology innovation center. The group Biosystems Engineering integrates the fields of single cell technologies, functional hydrogels & polymers, and printed electronics into systems for life sciences.
He received his PhD at ETH Zürich in Switzerland and continued a postdoctoral fellowship with Prof. Dittrich at ETH Zürich in Basel. Academic work included single cell mechanobiological studies as well as liposomes and cell derived vesicles for biosensing applications and regenerative medicine in close collaboration with the National University of Singapore.
After joining CSEM as R&D engineer and project manager, Felix focused on the development of electrochemical sensing systems for biomonitoring, organ-on-chip technologies, and exosome analysis development. The single cell technology activities complement the broad spectrum CSEM works on in the field of systems for life sciences that cover high-precision liquid handling, biosensing, 3D cell microsystems, and AI for life sciences among others.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
The development for our partners is never alike, with the result that we can hardly leverage previously developed technology details for new challenges. Any instrumentation we use must thus be extremely versatile and adaptable to any equipment of ever-changing suppliers. We employ the Flow EZ system for a multitude of applications, for instance, droplet microfluidics, automated in vitro sampling modules, and even miniaturized setups for the validation of pressure resistance of medical implants. The system’s accuracy and precision as well as the high resolution of the set pressure thereby helps us to meet the requirements of our customers. For the automation of electrochemical sensor arrays we are working with the Aria system as it provides – once programmed – fully autonomous and automated test cycles. This helped us to tremendously decrease the amount of user training for our in-house development.
**Dr. Felix Kurth, CSEM**
## Université Paris-Saclay – Institut Galien Paris Saclay (CNRS UMR 8612)
[Theses](https://www.theses.fr/261811347)
[Personal page](https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Thanh-Mai-3)
### Dr. Thanh Duc MAI
Thanh Duc MAI is an associate professor of Analytical Chemistry at the Université Paris-Saclay. After his PhD in Analytical Chemistry (instrumental design and development) at the University of Basel (Switzerland), he continued his postodoral research at different institutions in France.
He was the founder and manager of the scientific platform CE-Vietnam to promote the research and training on capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection at different universities and institutions in Vietnam.
His current research activities focus on development of novel electrokinetic preconcentration and separation methods, conception of purpose-made microfluidic capillary electrophoresis instrumentation, magneto-immunoassays and lab-on-droplet. His research is towards sensitive and selective detection of biomarkers in biological matrices and characterisation of nanoparticles and bio-nano entities.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
## University of Birmingham
[Citations](https://scholar.google.co.uk/citations?user=dAAUZMEAAAAJ&hl=en)
[Personal page](https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/staff/profiles/civil/davies-philip)
### Prof. Philip Davies
Philip Davies has over 35 years of academic and industrial research experience. The aim of his current research is to achieve sustainable treatment and utilization of water resources in arid regions. His research areas include: desalination and water re-use, solar-powered cooling using seawater, seawater greenhouse technology, and negative emissions technologies. These areas contribute to the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals.
Philip participates in several international collaborations in regions including North Africa, the Middle East and the Indian sub-continent.
In 2018, his work gained the Green Gown ‘Research with Impact’ Award, for studies that led to the development of cooling and desalination technologies to create seawater greenhouses that are enabling food to be grown sustainably in arid world regions.
He is currently Principal Investigator in eight research projects, including bIo-mimetic and phyto-techNologies DesIgned for low-cost purificAtion and recycling of water, which he is coordinating. For more information on this project, please visit the India-H2O website.
## University of Hong Kong
[Citations](https://scholar.google.com.hk/citations?user=FLEhTkIAAAAJ&hl=en)
[Personal page](https://www.scifac.hku.hk/people/tang-jinyao)
[Tang Group](https://tanglab.hku.hk/)
### Prof. Jinyao Tang
Current Research in “Study novel Nanorobot and artificial nanomotors”, “Develop new Energy Nanomaterials and Nanodevices”
Awards and Honours in “Outstanding Young Researcher of the University of Hong Kong in 2016/2017”, “Early Career Award 2014-2015, University Grants Committee , Hong Kong”
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
## ESPCI Paris-PSL
[Citations](https://scholar.google.fr/citations?user=XUZ-UG8AAAAJ&hl=fr)
[Personal page](https://blog.espci.fr/cecilemonteux/)
### Dr Cécile MONTEUX
Interfacial materials, such as foams, emulsions, are composed of many bubbles and drops, stabilized either by surfactants, polymers or colloids. The question we tackle is : « how do molecular interactions and interfacial dynamics in the surfactant layers control the macroscopic properties of foams, emulsions or capsules? ».
We have a special interest in « reactive » systems, whose interfacial dynamics such as adsorption/desorption fluxes can be actively controled by an external parameter.
Examples include photoswitchable surfactants or thermoresponsive colloids. From a fundamental point of view, these reactive systems are molecular tools that enable to study how a tiny modification at the molecular scale has consequences at the mesoscopic and macroscopic scales.
Another topic of interest is the study of interfaces and wetting situations in which mass transfers and/or phase transitions occur, such as solidification by freezing, cross-linking, complexation, evaporation.
These solidification processes lead to local modifications of the interfacial tension or the viscosity at the nanometric scale, which have a huge impact on macroscopic interfacial behaviours.
## Discover more Academic Partners
- [
### Center Partners
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/center-partners/)
- [
### Scientific Partners
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/scientific-partners/)
---
### [Über uns](https://www.fluigent.com/company/about-us/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
**10**
Nationalities
**60**
Workers worldwide
**20**
Patents
**2**
Subsidiaries
**12**
Distributors
## Warum Fluigent?
Die Mikrofluidik-Labors und die Industrie hatten Schwierigkeiten, ihre Forschungen durchzuführen und Geräte zu entwickeln, die das erforderliche Niveau und die erforderliche Präzision in Bezug auf die Flüssigkeitskontrolle aufweisen. Daher bestand ein Bedarf an einer schnelleren, stabileren und präziseren Technologie für die Flüssigkeitshandhabung im Mikromaßstab. Herkömmliche Spritzen- oder peristaltische Pumpen können dieses Leistungsniveau nur schwer erreichen und den Marktanforderungen nicht gerecht werden.
Fluigent war das erste Unternehmen, das dieses Problem durch die Einführung einer innovativen Technologie löste: Druckpumpen. Die einzigartige breite Palette von Lösungen von Fluigent für den Einsatz in mikrofluidischen und nanofluidischen Anwendungen gewährleistet eine vollständige Kontrolle der Durchflussraten mit einer größeren Kontrolle, Automatisierung, Präzision, Benutzerfreundlichkeit und minimiert auch die Kontamination. Fluigent hat bereits Tausende von patentierten Druck-Durchfluss-Steuerungssystemen an Hunderte von Kunden weltweit geliefert.
Fluigent’s Produktdesign und Herstellungsaktivitäten gehen über einfache Montagetätigkeiten hinaus. Fluigent beherrscht algorithmische, mechanische, elektronische, pneumatische und mikrofluidische Ketten. Forschungslabors können unsere einsatzbereiten Instrumente für ein breites Spektrum von Anwendungen nutzen, bei denen die Kontrolle von Flüssigkeiten entscheidend ist.
Industrieunternehmen sind in der Lage, die Technologie von Fluigent zu integrieren, um ihre eigenen Produkte zu erweitern und zu verbessern.
## Im schnell wachsenden Mikrofluidik-Sektor ist Fluigent ein weltweit führender Anbieter.
### Was ist Mikrofluidik?
Mikrofluidik ist die Wissenschaft von der Manipulation und Kontrolle von Flüssigkeiten, in der Regel im Bereich von Mikrolitern (10-6) bis Pikolitern (10-12), in Netzwerken von Kanälen mit Abmessungen von zehn bis hundert Mikrometern. Diese Disziplin hat ihren Ursprung in den frühen 1990er Jahren und ist seitdem exponentiell gewachsen. Sie wird als ein wesentliches Instrument für die biowissenschaftliche Forschung oder in größerem Umfang für die Biotechnologie angesehen.
Diese Technologie ist sowohl für akademische Forscher als auch für Industriekonzerne sehr attraktiv, da sie die Entwicklung neuer, maßgeschneiderter Therapien ermöglicht:
- die Entwicklung neuer maßgeschneiderter therapeutischer Behandlungen
- die Entdeckung neuer Medikamente und Impfstoffe durch Zeit- und Kosteneinsparungen zu beschleunigen
- die Reduzierung von Tierversuchen
- eine geringe Umweltbelastung
- die mechanischen Eigenschaften eines lebenden menschlichen Organs im mikroskopischen Maßstab zu reproduzieren
Die breite Palette der Lösungen von Fluigent bietet mehr Kontrolle, Automatisierung, Präzision und Benutzerfreundlichkeit.
## Unsere vision
Den Alltag verbessern, die Welt sicherer machen und Leben retten, indem wir den wissenschaftlichen Fortschritt und die Forschung beschleunigen.
## Unsere Geschichte
Fluigent wurde 2005 von Forschern des Institut Curie in Paris gegründet. Fluigent war das erste Unternehmen, das im Gegensatz zu herkömmlichen Spritzen- und Peristaltikpumpen eine druckgesteuerte Durchflusskontrolle auf dem Mikrofluidik-Forschungsmarkt einführte.
## Unsere Werte
### Innovation
Als Pionier auf dem Gebiet der Mikrofluidik hat Fluigent den Standard in der Mikrofluidiksteuerung gesetzt und ist bestrebt, in diesem Bereich an vorderster Front zu bleiben. Innovation steht im Mittelpunkt aller Aktivitäten des Unternehmens, von Produkten bis hin zu Prozessen.
### Kundenorientiert
Neben der Produktleistung konzentriert sich Fluigent auf die Benutzerfreundlichkeit und die Bereitstellung von technischem Support auf höchstem Niveau, um die Kundenerfahrung zu optimieren. Unser engagiertes Team kann Ihnen jederzeit helfen. Wir sind bestrebt, alle Fragen innerhalb von 24 Stunden zu beantworten.
### Teamarbeit
Wir haben unterschiedliche Hintergründe und Kulturen, aber wir wachsen als ein Team. Unsere Gruppe von Ingenieuren und Geschäftsleuten arbeitet daran, das Beste aus unseren unterschiedlichen Ansichten herauszuholen, um unseren Kunden hochqualitative und innovative Instrumente zu bieten, die ihren Bedürfnissen gerecht werden.
## Unsere soziale Verantwortung als Unternehmen
Die Ziele für nachhaltige Entwicklung sind die Blaupause für eine bessere und nachhaltigere Zukunft für alle. Im Mittelpunkt stehen die 17 Ziele für nachhaltige Entwicklung (Sustainable Development Goals, SDGs), die einen dringenden Aufruf zum Handeln aller Länder – Industrie- und Entwicklungsländer – im Rahmen einer globalen Partnerschaft darstellen.
Da Innovation im Mittelpunkt unserer Aktivitäten steht, hat sich Fluigent an diesem globalen Projekt beteiligt. Konkret haben wir uns zu Ziel 9.5 des Ziels 9 INDUSTRIE, INNOVATION UND INFRASTRUKTUR verpflichtet.
Die Zielvorgabe 9.5 fordert die Unternehmen auf, Innovationen zu fördern, die Zahl der Beschäftigten in der wissenschaftlichen Forschung und Entwicklung deutlich zu erhöhen und die technologischen Fähigkeiten der Industriesektoren in allen Ländern zu verbessern.
**Im Jahr 2020 haben die mikrofluidischen Lösungen von Fluigent den Forschern in Forschung und Entwicklung 25.470 F&E Stunden erspart.**
Die soziale Verantwortung von Fluigent zeigt sich auch in unserem Herstellungsprozess. Unsere Produkte werden in unserer Produktionsstätte in der Nähe von Paris hergestellt. Aufgrund der Qualität unserer Produkte und unseres französischen Know-hows wurden wir ausgewählt, #MadeInFrance während der großen Ausstellung im Elysée-Palast im Juli 2021 zu vertreten.
- Begrenzung unseres ökologischen Fußabdrucks
- Nachhaltiges Mobilitätspaket (Fahrrad, Fahrgemeinschaften, …)
- Installation von Videokonferenzsystemen in unseren Büros zur Reduzierung der verkehrsbedingten CO2-Emissionen
- Recycling von Computerabfällen
- Begrenzung des Papierverbrauchs: kein eigener Drucker
## Fluigent überall auf der Welt
Mit einer globalen Präsenz, die Niederlassungen und Vertriebspartner in Europa, Nordamerika, Asien und dem Nahen Osten umfasst, erzielt Fluigent 70 % seines Umsatzes im Export. Mit einem starken Wachstum auf dem asiatischen Markt im Jahr 2021 beweist Fluigent sein Bestreben, über nationale Grenzen hinauszugehen.
## Kommen Sie zu uns
Kommen Sie zu uns und werden Sie Teil eines führenden mikrofluidischen Scale-up-Unternehmens!
---
### [회사 소개](https://www.fluigent.com/company/about-us/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
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## Fluigent를 선택해야 하는 이유
미세유체 연구실과 업계에서는 유체 제어 측면에서 요구되는 수준과 정밀도로 연구를 수행하고 장비를 개발하는 데 어려움을 겪고 있었습니다. 그 결과 미세한 규모의 유체 처리를 위해 더 빠르고 안정적이며 정밀한 기술이 필요했습니다. 기존의 시린지나 연동 펌프는 이러한 수준의 성능을 제공하는 데 어려움을 겪고 있으며 시장의 요구를 충족시키지 못했습니다.
압력 펌프라는 혁신적인 기술을 도입하여 이 문제를 해결한 최초의 회사가 바로 Fluigent였습니다. 미세유체 및 나노유체 분야에 사용할 수 있는 Fluigent 고유의 광범위한 솔루션은 보다 뛰어난 제어, 자동화, 정밀도, 사용 편의성으로 유량을 완벽하게 제어하고 오염을 최소화합니다. Fluigent는 전 세계 수백 개의 고객사에 수천 개의 특허받은 압력 유량 제어 시스템을 공급해 왔습니다.
Fluigent의 제품 설계 및 제조 활동은 단순한 조립 활동 그 이상입니다. Fluigent는 알고리즘, 기계, 전자, 공압, 미세유체 체인을 마스터합니다.
## Fluigent, 빠르게 성장하는 미세유체 분야의 글로벌 리더
### 미세유체란?
미세유체는 수십에서 수백 마이크로미터 크기의 채널 네트워크에서 일반적으로 마이크로리터(10-6)에서 피코리터(10-12) 범위의 유체를 조작하고 제어하는 과학입니다. 미세유체 기술은 1990년대 초에 처음 등장한 이후로 기하급수적인 성장을 이루었습니다. 현재 이 기술은 생명 과학 연구와 생명 공학 분야에서 필수적인 도구로 자리잡고 있습니다.
학계 연구자와 산업계 전문가 모두에게 매우 매력적인 기술로 받아들여지고 있으며, 다음과 같은 놀라운 가능성을 제공합니다.
- 새로운 맞춤형 치료법 개발
- 시간과 비용을 줄여 신약 및 백신의 발견 가속화
- 동물 실험 감소
- 환경에 미치는 영향 감소
- 생체 장기의 기계적 특성을 미세한 규모에서 재현
Fluigent의 광범위한 솔루션은 보다 뛰어난 제어, 자동화, 정밀도와 사용 편의성을 제공합니다.
## 비전
과학적 진보와 발견을 가속화하여 일상의 현실을 개선하고, 세상을 더 안전한 곳으로 만들며, 생명을 구합니다.
## 회사연혁
파리의 퀴리 연구소 연구원들이 2005년에 설립한 Fluigent는 기존의 시린지 및 연동 펌프 대신 압력 구동 유량 제어를 미세유체 연구 시장에 최초로 도입한 회사입니다.
## 핵심 가치
### 혁신
미세유체의 선구자인 Fluigent는 미세유체 제어의 표준을 세웠으며, 이 분야의 선두를 유지하기 위해 끊임없이 노력하고 있습니다. 혁신은 제품부터 공정에 이르기까지 회사가 하는 모든 일의 핵심입니다.
### 고객 중심
Fluigent는 제품 성능뿐만 아니라 사용 편의성과 최고 수준의 기술 지원을 제공하여 고객 경험을 최적화하는 데 중점을 두고 있습니다. 전담 팀이 언제든지 도움을 드릴 수 있으며, 모든 질문에 24시간 이내에 답변해 드리기 위해 최선을 다하고 있습니다.
### 팀워크
Fluigent는 다양한 배경과 문화에서 왔지만, 하나의 팀으로 성장합니다. 엔지니어와 비즈니스 전문가로 구성된 그룹은 다양한 관점을 최대한 활용하여 고객의 요구에 부응하는 고품질의 혁신적인 도구를 제공하기 위해 노력합니다.
## 전 세계에 진출한 Fluigent
유럽, 북미, 아시아, 중동에 지사와 유통업체를 두고 전 세계에 진출한 Fluigent는 매출의 70%를 수출을 통해 달성하고 있습니다. 2021년 아시아 시장에서의 강력한 성장은 Fluigent의 국경을 넘어선 야망을 증명하고 있습니다.
Fluigent Distributors WorldMap
---
### [Unternehmen](https://www.fluigent.com/company/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Über uns
Die mikrofluidischen Labore und die Industrie stießen auf Herausforderungen bei der Durchführung ihrer Forschungen und der Entwicklung von Geräten, die das erforderliche Maß an Flusssteuerung und Präzision aufweisen. Fluigent war das Vorreiterunternehmen, das dieses Hindernis durch die Einführung einer innovativen Technologie löste: Druckpumpen.
Fluigent bietet eine breite Reihe von Lösungen für den Einsatz in mikrofluidischen und nanofluidischen Anwendungen. Unsere Produkte ermöglichen eine präzise Kontrolle der Durchflussraten sowie eine verbesserte Automatisierung und Benutzerfreundlichkeit. Durch unsere Technologie wird außerdem die Kontamination minimiert, was eine zuverlässige und effiziente Durchführung Ihrer Experimente gewährleistet.
Forschungslabore können unsere einsatzbereiten Instrumente für eine Vielfalt von Anwendungen nutzen, bei denen die Kontrolle von Flüssigkeiten entscheidend ist.
Industrieunternehmen können die Technologie von Fluigent integrieren, um ihre eigenen Produkte zu erweitern und zu optimieren.
[Entdecken ](/de/company/about-us/)
## Das Team
Unsere Teammitglieder kommen aus aller Welt, bringen unterschiedlichste Erfahrungen und sind mit Leidenschaft dabei, jeden Tag innovative Herausforderungen zu meistern. Entdecken Sie die erstaunlichen Geschichten der Menschen, die hinter unseren Produkten stehen.
[Entdecken](/de/team/)
## Our news
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company newsInsights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics July 16, 2024
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
---
### [智能微流控技术](https://www.fluigent.com/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 研究 & 工业
Fluigent独特的解决方案，可广泛应用于微流控和纳米流控中，从而提供更优的控制性、自动化、精确性、易用性。如果您正在寻求替代高精度注射泵或其他传统仪器的设备，我们提供的现代微流控系统和组件可助您提高生产力。
我们创新的压力微流控控制器与芯片实验室设备和多种微流控技术兼容，可助您专注科学而不是设置。
实现工业应用中流体处理自动化的方法。
根据压力和微流控知识和专业技能，我们可提供组件、集成和按需选择的工程服务。
[研究](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/)
[工业](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-oem/)
- [
### 面向高流量控制的微流控技术
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-high-flow-control/)
- [
### 适用于器官芯片应用的微流控技术
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### 用于液滴生成的微流控技术
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-droplet-generation/)
- [
### 面向组学应用的微流控技术
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-research-equipment/microfluidics-for-omics-applications/)
- [
### 使用F-OEM打造适用于微流控应用的阀自动化
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/weiliukong-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
- [
### 用于复用的定位显微技术和流量控制
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/weiliukong-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
- [
### 比较微流控压力控制器，选择您最理想的终极流体控制系统
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
- [
### 为微流控应用选择OEM压力控制器而非OEM注射泵的五大理由
了解更多](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
## 合作优势
微流控实验室和业界正致力于研究和开发出达到流体控制水平和精度要求的设备。
Fluigent公司是第一家通过引入创新技术（压力泵）来解决这一问题的公司。Fluigent独特的解决方案，可广泛应用于微流控和纳米流控中，从而不仅可以更优的控制性、自动化、精确性、易用性来完全控制流速，还能将污染降到最低。
Fluigent已向全球数百家客户提供了数千套获得专利的压力流量控制器系统
[关于我们](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/公司/)
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## 公司新闻
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company newsInsights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics July 16, 2024
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
---
### [OEM 기술](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/)
**Published:** July 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### 최고의 유체 제어 시스템을 위한 미세유체 압력 컨트롤러 비교
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
- [
### 미세유체 응용 분야에서 OEM 시린지 펌프보다 OEM 압력 컨트롤러를 선택해야 하는 5가지 이유
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
---
### [OEM技术](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/)
**Published:** July 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### 比较微流控压力控制器，选择您最理想的终极流体控制系统
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
- [
### 为微流控应用选择OEM压力控制器而非OEM注射泵的五大理由
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
---
### [Mikrofluidik für hohe Flusskontrolle](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-hohe-flusskontrolle/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Wie funktioniert die Mikrofluidik?
Die Mikrofluidik befasst sich mit der **sehr präzisen Steuerung von Flüssigkeiten auf kleinstem Raum und Volumen.** Mikrofluidik-Chips sind Geräte, die in mikrofluidischen Studien verwendet werden und in denen Mikrokanäle geformt oder gemustert wurden. **Die Mikrokanäle sind so miteinander verbunden, dass Flüssigkeiten durch die verschiedenen Kanäle fließen** und sich von einem Ort zum anderen bewegen können. Dieses Netzwerk ist über Einlass- und Auslassöffnungen mit der äußeren Umgebung verbunden. **Die Flüssigkeiten oder Gase werden über passive Wege oder externe aktive Systeme (Druckregler, Spritzenpumpen oder Peristaltikpumpen) in den Mikrofluidik-Chip injiziert, gesteuert oder aus ihm entfernt.**
Beispiel für einen mikrofluidischen Chip
Die Kanäle können unterschiedliche Innendurchmesser haben, die in der Regel zwischen 5 und 500 μm liegen und ihr Netzwerk muss speziell für die jeweilige Anwendung und die durchzuführende Analyse ausgelegt sein. Daher ermöglichen **mikrofluidische Chips die Integration mehrerer Funktionen, für die normalerweise ein ganzes Labor benötigt wird,** in einem einzigen Gerät in Mikrogröße.
## Was ändert sich für Flüssigkeiten im mikrometrischen Maßstab?
Im mikrometrischen Maßstab ändert sich das Verhalten von Flüssigkeiten und bietet mehrere Vorteile: eine **schnelle Wärmeübertragung, ein größeres Verhältnis von Oberfläche zu Volumen, ein laminarer Fluss und eine mögliche Diffusionsmischung.** Darüber hinaus **verringert die Mikrofluidik den Proben- und Reagenzienverbrauch erheblich, verkürzt die Versuchsdauer und reduziert die Gesamtkosten der Anwendungen.**
Dank der Entwicklung der Mikroelektronik und der Miniaturisierung von Transistoren wurde dieses Konzept mit der Einführung des “Lab-on-Chip”-Prinzips (LoC) und des “Micro Total Analysis System” (μTAS) auf den biomedizinischen und chemischen Bereich übertragen. Zu den ersten Beispielen für mikrofluidische Chips gehörten S. Terry et al., die 1979 einen Chip auf einem Silizium-Wafer entwickelten, der die Funktionen eines Gaschromatographen miniaturisierte. Seit dieser Pionierarbeit erlebte die **Mikrofluidik ein explosionsartiges Wachstum und wurde zu einem unverzichtbaren Werkzeug sowohl für akademische Forscher als auch für Industrieunternehmen.**
*Die Entwicklung der Mikrofluidik*
## Was sind die Vorteile der Mikrofluidik?
*Vorteile der Mikrofluidik* \[1\]
Das Schlüsselkonzept der **Mikrofluidik ist die Integration von Vorgängen, für die normalerweise ein ganzes Labor benötigt wird, in ein einfaches, mikrokleines System.** Derzeit wird das **herkömmliche Scale-up in mikrofluidischen Systemen** durch Multiplexing **ersetzt**, da die kompakte Größe des Geräts die Zeit von der Formulierung bis zur Produktion drastisch verkürzt. Dies führt dazu, dass **mikrofluidische Technologien nicht nur für analytische Zwecke, sondern auch in der Prozessindustrie**, insbesondere in der Feinchemie, der Lebensmittel-, Umwelt- und Pharmaindustrie **für die Herstellung in großem Maßstab eingesetzt werden.** In den letzten Jahren wurden mikrofluidische Geräte auch in großem Umfang als Analyseinstrumente für biochemische und molekularbiologische Anwendungen eingesetzt.
**Mikrofluidische Systeme bieten außerdem eine hervorragende Datenqualität und eine verbesserte Parameterkontrolle**, die eine Prozessautomatisierung unter Beibehaltung der Leistung ermöglicht. Sie sind in der Lage, Proben mit geringem Aufwand sowohl zu verarbeiten als auch zu analysieren. **Die Verbindung zwischen dem mikrofluidischen Chip und dem Fluid-Handling-System** ist so konzipiert, dass die eingebaute Automatisierung es dem **Benutzer ermöglicht, mehrstufige Reaktionen durchzuführen, die ein geringes Maß an Fachwissen** und eine Vielzahl von Funktionen **erfordern.**
So **bietet die Mikrofluidik beispielsweise eine höhere Empfindlichkeit bei der Wasseranalyse** im Vergleich zu herkömmlichen Methoden und die Möglichkeit, geringere Schadstoffkonzentrationen zu erkennen. Die Analysezeit wird drastisch verkürzt, was eine Überwachung in Echtzeit und eine höhere Effizienz ermöglicht und gleichzeitig eine Wasserverschwendung durch sehr kleine Proben verhindert.
Darüber hinaus **wird erwartet, dass mikrofluidische Technologien in Zukunft eine wichtige Rolle bei der Herstellung und Verabreichung von therapeutischen Produkten und Diagnostika im Bereich der Nanomedizin spielen werden**, da sie die Nachfrage nach qualitativ hochwertigen und sorgfältig regulierten medizinischen Produkten erfüllen.
## Wie man diese Vorteile der Mikrofluidik nutzen kann.
**In der Mikrofluidik wird die Beherrschung verschiedener Technologien zur Flusskontrolle im Mikrometermaßstab immer wichtiger** für die erfolgreiche Durchführung von Mikrofluidikexperimenten. Um robuste und reproduzierbare Daten zu erhalten, ist eine **präzise Kontrolle der Flussparameter erforderlich.** So bestimmen die im System angewendeten Flussraten beispielsweise die Größe der erzeugten Tröpfchen oder erzeugen eine spezifische Scherbeanspruchung der Zellen, die sich auf ihr Wachstum, ihre räumliche Organisation und ihre Proteinsekretion auswirkt. Ein Fehler bei den Flussraten des Systems kann zu polydispersen Tröpfchen, instabilen Systemen, beschädigten Zellen und ganz allgemein zum Scheitern des Experiments führen. **Eine vollständige und zuverlässige Flusskontrolle ist daher in jedem mikrofluidischen System unerlässlich.**
## Welche Systeme werden in der Mikrofluidik am häufigsten für die Flusskontrolle eingesetzt?
### Spritzenpumpen
**Spritzenpumpen eignen sich gut für die Injektion kleiner Volumina, sind aber weniger präzise als Druckpumpen**, insbesondere bei sehr niedrigen Flussraten. Auf dem Markt gibt es eine große Auswahl an Qualität und Preisen.
Bei der mikrofluidischen Flusskontrolle basieren Spritzenpumpen auf einem mechanischen System, das von einem Schrittmotor angetrieben wird, der eine Spritze mit einer präzisen Geschwindigkeit vorschiebt und eine große Bandbreite an Flussraten ermöglicht. **Die mechanische Betätigung kann jedoch Flusspulsationen erzeugen und lange Reaktions- und Einschwingzeiten haben**, insbesondere bei Vorhandensein von Luftblasen, viskosen Flüssigkeiten und nachgiebigen Schläuchen. Darüber hinaus wird die tatsächliche Flussrate im System nicht überwacht, was zu einer Verzerrung des Ergebnisses führen kann, wenn die geforderte Flussrate aufgrund von Leckagen, Verstopfungen oder einer falschen Einstellung nicht erreicht wird. **Auch der Druck wird nicht kontrolliert**, und wenn das Mikrosystem verstopft ist, kann der Druck auf ein schädliches Niveau ansteigen. Es wird den Nutzern geraten, regelmäßig auf Verstopfungen zu achten, insbesondere bei der Verwendung von Mikropartikeln, und sich der möglichen Grenzen der Technologie bei der Automatisierung von Experimenten bewusst zu sein.
*Diagramm der Ansprechzeit einer Spritzenpumpe*
### Peristaltische Pumpe
*Peristaltische Pumpe*
Die peristaltische Pumpe basiert auf der Kompression und Entspannung eines flexiblen Schlauchs. Rotierende Rollen laufen an dem in der Pumpe angebrachten Schlauch entlang und komprimieren ihn, wodurch ein Vakuum im Schlauch entsteht und die Flüssigkeit mitgerissen wird. Diese Methode der Flüssigkeitsbetätigung kann in mikrofluidischen Labors eingesetzt werden und ist relativ kostengünstig.
**Bei der mikrofluidischen Flusskontrolle ist die peristaltische Pumpe eine gute Option für große Volumina und hohe Flussraten** sowie für die Rückführung von Flüssigkeiten. **Die Kompression der Schläuche führt jedoch zu Impulsen im Fluss, was für die meisten mikrofluidischen Anwendungen**, bei denen die Flussgenauigkeit wichtig ist, nicht geeignet ist. Außerdem sollten die flexiblen Schläuche regelmäßig ausgetauscht werden, um eine Beschädigung der Schläuche zu vermeiden.
### Druckregler-Lösung
Bei der Flüssigkeitsbetätigung mit druckgesteuerten Flussreglern werden Behälter, die die Probe enthalten, unter Druck gesetzt, so dass sie schnell in ein mikrofluidisches Gerät injiziert wird. Die Größe dieses Behälters ist sehr flexibel und reicht von 1,5/2 ml Eppendorf-Röhrchen über 15/50 ml Falcon-Fläschchen bis hin zu größeren Flaschen von mehreren hundert Millilitern.
Um eine mikrofluidische Flusskontrolle zu erreichen, drückt der kontrollierte Gasdruck die Flüssigkeit, die dann durch den Auslass des Reservoirs fließt. **Aufgrund der ausgezeichneten Regulierung durch Gasdruckregler können diese Systeme hochstabile Flussraten von bis zu einigen zehn Milliliter/min erreichen.**
*Fluigent’s MFCS und FLOW EZ Druckregler*
**Bei Fluigent präsentieren wir die druckgesteuerten MFCS-EZ™- und LineUp™-Regler, die eine Auflösung von nur 7×10-3 bar haben. So bieten alle unsere Serien Einschwingzeiten von bis zu 100 ms und eine Auflösung von 0,03 % des Skalenendwerts (Auflösung des Drucksensors) sowie eine Stabilität von 0,1 % CV auf die Messwerte.**
Wenn ein Flusssensor mit dem Druckregler gekoppelt ist, kann der Anwender die Flussmenge direkt steuern. **Der Druck wird über leistungsstarke Algorithmen wie Fluigent’s Oxygen eingestellt.** Zusätzlich kann eine Flüssigkeitsrückführung durch die Verbindung unserer Ventile mit dem Druckregler erfolgen.
**Ein weiterer Vorteil von Druckpumpen ist, dass der Benutzer mehrere Behälter mit nur einem Kanal unter Druck setzen kann.** Dies kann die Kosten Ihrer Anlage erheblich reduzieren, wenn Sie verschiedene Lösungen nacheinander injizieren möchten. Aufgrund dieser Vorteile werden **unsere druckbasierten Flussregler in Anwendungen eingesetzt, bei denen ein hohes Maß an Präzision und Kontrolle über die Parameter** (Größe, Mischung, Flussraten usw.) erforderlich ist. Sie bieten hervorragende Ergebnisse bei Experimenten im Zusammenhang mit der Tröpfchenerzeugung, ddPCR, Zellkultur und Zellperfusion, Organ-on-a-Chip-Studien, Synthese von Nanopartikeln, Mikrokapseln und Mikroperlen.
[Entdecken Sie unsere Produkte und Lösungen für die Mikrofluidik](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-hohe-flusskontrolle/mikrofluidische-losungen/)
## Referenzen
1- Bahnemann, J.; Grünberge, A. Microfluidics in Biotechnology: Overview and Status Quo. Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology book series, 2022, ABE,volume 179.
---
### [Mikrofluidik für die Tröpfchenerzeugung](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-die-troepfchenerzeugung/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Was sind Emulsionen und Tröpfchen?
**Eine Emulsion ist ein heterogenes System, das aus mindestens einer nicht mischbaren Flüssigkeit besteht, die in einer anderen in Form von Tröpfchen dispergiert ist.** Wenn nicht emulgiert wird, werden die beiden Flüssigkeiten getrennt, wobei die weniger dichte Phase auf der dichteren Phase liegt. **Salatdressings sind gängige Beispiele für Emulsionen.** In einer Vinaigrette, die aus einer wässrigen Phase (dem Essig) und einer öligen Phase (Olivenöl) besteht, werden die beiden Phasen getrennt, wenn sie nicht emulgiert werden. Durch Schütteln der Vinaigretteflasche wird der Essig in der kontinuierlichen Ölphase verteilt, so dass eine Emulsion entsteht. **Bei einer Emulsion wird eine Flüssigkeit (die sogenannte dispergierte Phase) in der anderen (der kontinuierlichen Phase) dispergiert.**
Wasser in Öltröpfchen
## Was sind die häufigsten Anwendungen von Emulsionen?
Verkapselung von Biomolekülen in Polymeren \[1\]
**Pharmazie**: Emulsionen werden für eine Vielzahl pharmazeutischer Produkte verwendet, darunter intravenöse, intramuskuläre, okuläre oder orale Produkte. **Emulsionen werden auch als Vorlagen für Polymer-Mikropartikel, Lipid-Nanopartikel oder Mikrokapseln verwendet.** Letztere können z. B. für die Verabreichung von Arzneimitteln verwendet werden, wobei die Emulsion selbst der aktive pharmazeutische Wirkstoff (API) oder ein Adjuvans für die gleichzeitige Verabreichung ist.
**Lebensmittelindustrie**: Durch die einzigartige Natur von Emulsionen als thermodynamisch stabile Dispersionen, die mit einer Größenverteilung unterschiedlich großer Tröpfchen erzeugt werden, sind sie für verschiedene Anwendungen in der Lebensmittelindustrie geeignet.
Die Nanoencapsulation, in diesem Beispiel ein vielversprechender Ansatz für die gezielte Abgabe und kontrollierte Freisetzung von Vitaminen. \[2\]
Kosmetische Produkte, die mit Hilfe der Mikrofluidik-Technologie entwickelt wurden.
**Kosmetik**: Produkte auf Emulsionsbasis in Kosmetik bieten eine feine Textur und ein angenehmes Gefühl beim Auftragen. Sie **können auch die Löslichkeit von relativ schwach löslichen Stoffen verbessern**. In letzter Zeit sind “Millifluidik”-Geräte auf den Markt gekommen, mit denen Emulsionen erzeugt werden können, die mit bloßem Auge sichtbar sind, was die Entwicklung einzigartiger Produkte mit hoher optischer Attraktivität ermöglicht.
## Warum die Tropfen-mikrofluidik?
### 1) Die Grenzen der herkömmlichen Methoden zur Tropfenerzeugung
**Zu den Standardmethoden für die Tropfenerzeugung** gehören mechanische Geräte wie Hochgeschwindigkeitsmischer, Hochdruckhomogenisatoren und Kolloidmühlen.
Das Aufbrechen von Tropfen erfolgt in der Regel durch Scher- oder Stoßbelastungen, die durch manuelles/mechanisches Rühren erzeugt werden. Unter solchen Bedingungen sind die erzeugten Spannungen in der Regel nicht gleichmäßig über das System verteilt. Infolgedessen haben **die erzeugten Emulsionen eine polydisperse Größe. Dies kann bei vielen Anwendungen eine starke Einschränkung darstellen, da die Stabilität von Emulsionen von der Größe abhängt.**
Herstellung von Mikroemulsionen mittels a) Batch-Verfahren und b) mikrofluidischem Verfahren
### 2) Mikrofluidische Geräte für kontrollierte Emulsionen
**Die Tropfenerzeugung mit mikrofluidischen Systemen wurde für Anwendungen eingeführt, bei denen die Monodispersität von großer Bedeutung ist.** In mikrometergroßen Kanälen wird jeweils ein Tropfen erzeugt, was die Herstellung monodisperser Tropfen ermöglicht. **Mit einem solchen Maß an Kontrolle** sind Anwendungen möglich geworden, die vorher nicht möglich gewesen wären, wie z. B. die digitale PCR und die Verkapselung einzelner Zellen in Tröpfchen. Es ist auch eine h**ervorragende Methode für Anwendungen, die teure API** (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) verwenden, da weniger Abfall anfällt. In einem typischen mikrofluidischen System ist der mikrofluidische Chip mit einem oder mehreren Fluidikreglern verbunden, die die Flüssigkeiten in den Chip injizieren. **Die Tropfenerzeugung hängt hauptsächlich von der Größe der mikrofluidischen Kanäle, den Flüssigkeitseigenschaften (Viskosität) und den verwendeten Durchflussraten ab.**
Mikrofluidik-basierte Tropfenerzeugung und -kontrolle ermöglicht :
- **Hochgradig monodisperse** (<2% Größenvariation) Tropfenproduktion, im Gegensatz zu Batch-Emulsionsmethoden, mit relativ hoher Frequenz
- **Hochgradig reproduzierbare komplexe Strukturen** (Mehrfachemulsionen, Emulsionen mit mehreren Kernen …)
- **Manipulation eines einzelnen Tropfen** als individueller biochemischer Reaktor im pL-Maßstab.
- **Miniaturisierung von Produktions- und bioanalytischen Geräten**
## Überwindung der Beschränkungen bei den Materialien und der Oberflächenbehandlung von Dropletchips.
**Die meisten handelsüblichen mikrofluidischen Tropfengeneratoren basieren auf einer planaren, strömungsfokussierenden Konfiguration,** die in Polymer- oder Glas-Chips implementiert ist. **Diese Geometrie hat viele Einschränkungen**, wie die Notwendigkeit **spezifischer Beschichtungen oder die Verwendung spezieller Tenside.**
Im Gegensatz dazu stellen auf Glaskapillaren basierende Geräte für die Tropfenerzeugung eine große Verbesserung dar, da die dispergierte Phase nie mit den Wänden der äußeren Kapillare in Kontakt kommt (a,b).
Sie sind schwierig zu implementieren (Zentrierung der Kapillare), und kommerziell verfügbare Designs haben sich als wenig flexibel für die Tropfenproduktion erwiesen (> 100 µm Durchmesser, < 1 kHz Erzeugungsrate). **Die Zentrierung kann vereinfacht werden, indem zwei kreisförmige Kapillaren in eine quadratische äußere Strömungskapillare eingesetzt werden ( c,d), aber die damit verbundenen Herstellungsverfahren schränken die Produktion in großem Maßstab ein**, und eine kapillarbasierte Tropfenproduktion mit hohem Durchsatz ist noch nicht erreicht worden. **Eine neue Konfiguration bietet eine vielversprechende Alternative, bei der das Extraktionsrohr vor dem Injektionsrohr platziert wird, ohne dass die Umgebung eingeschlossen wird** (e). Dieses System **funktioniert jedoch nur im Jetting-Regime, was nicht die Monodispersität der Tropfen garantiert,** die mit dem Dripping-Regime verbunden ist.
Verfügbare kapillarbasierte achsensymmetrische Designs von Tröpfchengeneratoren.
## Raydrop: Ein nicht eingebetteter mikrofluidischer Tropfengenerator mit Co-Flow-Fokussierung
**Fluigent und Secoya haben ihr Fachwissen gebündelt, um ein neues System zu entwickeln**, das auf der letztgenannten Konfiguration basiert, **bei dem jedoch das Tropfsystem durch die Verwendung einer Injektionskapillare mit einem kleineren Durchmesser als die Extraktionskapillare erzwungen wird.** Erreicht wird dies durch eine verbesserte Kombination aus modernsten Bearbeitungs- und 3D-Drucktechniken. Dieses Design weist sowohl die **Merkmale einer Co-Flow- als auch einer Flow-Focusing-Konfiguration** auf und wird als “ Co-Flow-Focusing-Design” bezeichnet. Diese Konfiguration füllt die Lücke in der Designpalette der mikrofluidischen Tropfengeneratoren.
*a) Explosionszeichnung und b) zusammengesetzte Ansicht des Raydrop. (c) Der Raydrop mit den* *Injektions- und Extraktionskapillaren aus Glas. (d) Zoom durch das obere Fenster der beiden* *Kapillaren, die in der mit der kontinuierlichen Phase gefüllten Kammer angeordnet sind. (e) Zoom* *auf den kapillarbasierten Tropfen-erzeugungsbereich.*
**Beispiele von PLGA-Mikroperlen**
## Der Raydrop ist ein einfach zu bedienender, kommerziell erhältlicher mikrofluidischer Chip, der es ermöglicht, Tropfen mit hervorragender Monodispersität zu erzeugen.
Der Raydrop® ermöglicht die Herstellung von **einfachen Emulsionen** (Öl-in-Wasser und Wasser-in-Öl) sowie von **Doppelemulsionen** (Öl-in-Wasser-in-Öl oder Wasser-in-Öl-in-Wasser) ohne Beschichtung.
Doppelemulsionen haben im Vergleich zu einfachen Emulsionen viele Vorteile. Sie sind in der Regel stabiler, neigen weniger zur Koaleszenz und sind einfacher zu handhaben und zu analysieren. Da sich **Doppelemulsionen** leicht in einer wässrigen kontinuierlichen Phase dispergieren lassen (was bei Einfachemulsionen im Bereich der Biowissenschaften weniger der Fall ist), können sie mit automatischer **Zellsortierung wie der fluoreszenzaktivierten Zellsortierung (FACS) charakterisiert und sortiert werden.** Darüber hinaus **eignen sich Doppelemulsionen hervorragend zur Herstellung von Mikrokapseln durch Verfestigung der Hülle.**
*Beispiele von PLGA- (links) und Chitosan-Mikrokapseln (rechts)*
*Beispiele von PLGA- (links) und Chitosan-Mikrokapseln (rechts)*
## Welche Rolle spielt die Durchflussrate bei der Tröpfchenbildung?
**Die Stabilität der Durchflussrate ist entscheidend für wiederholbare Reaktorvolumina und reproduzierbare Ergebnisse.** Spritzenpumpen werden häufig für die Erzeugung von Tröpfchen in mikrofluidischen Experimenten verwendet. Je nach Modell haben Spritzenpumpen eine begrenzte Durchflusskontrolle. Daher wird die Tröpfchengröße, die proportional zur Durchflussrate ist, beeinflusst. Die tatsächliche Durchflussrate kann mit solchen Geräten nicht überwacht werden. Der Wert der Flussrate wird auf dem Gerät angezeigt, aber es gibt keine Informationen über die Zeit, die benötigt wird, um eine bestimmte Flussrate zu erreichen (die Zeit für das Gleichgewicht der Durchflussrate kann je nach mikrofluidischem Aufbau variieren, und die Durchflussrate kann je nach Gerät schwanken). Eine **Alternative zu Spritzenpumpen sind unsere druckbasierten Flow EZ-Druckregler. Diese zeigen, dass eine hochpräzise Flusskontrolle, eine hohe Reaktionszeit und eine Flussüberwachung möglich sind.** Im Vergleich zur Spritzenpumpe wurde ein stabiler und wiederholbarer Fluss erzeugt.
[Erkunden Sie unsere Produkte und Lösungen für Tröpfchen](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-die-troepfchenerzeugung/mikrofluidische-losungen-tropfchenproduktion/)
## Referenzen
1. Iqbal, M., Zafar, N., Fessi, H., & Elaissari, A. (2015). Double emulsion solvent evaporation techniques used for drug encapsulation. International Journal of Pharmaceutics.
2. Katouzian, I., Jafari, S.M., Nano-encapsulation as a promising approach for targeted delivery and controlled release of vitamins, Trends in Food Science & Technology (2016), [https://doi](https://doi/): 10.1016/j.tifs.2016.05.002
---
### [Mikrofluidik für Organ-on-Chip-Anwendungen](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-organ-on-chip-anwendungen/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Was sind Organ-on-Chip?
Bei der Organ-on-Chip (OOC)-Technologie (Abbildung 1) werden Funktionen oder Krankheiten auf der Ebene menschlicher Organe mit Hilfe von Zellen (in 2D oder 3D) oder Gewebeschnitten in einem mikrofluidischen Chip nachgebildet. Die Mikrofluidik ermöglicht eine präzise Kontrolle der zellulären Umgebung und bietet den Zellen genauere mechanische und biochemische Hinweise (1). Durch die Manipulation kleiner Flüssigkeitsvolumina können diese Modelle skalierbare, dynamische Zellinteraktionen ermöglichen. Die Kombination von Mikrofluidik und OOC-Technologie ermöglicht die Nachbildung menschlicher Organfunktionen zur Untersuchung der menschlichen Physiologie und Krankheit.
Jüngste Fortschritte bei mikrofluidischen Chipdesigns nutzen Geometrien und Strukturen, um physiologische Bedingungen wie Längenskalen, Konzentrationsgradienten und flüssigkeitsinduzierte mechanische Kräfte zu simulieren. Diese biomimetischen Plattformen überwinden viele Einschränkungen, mit denen herkömmliche Gewebekulturmodelle konfrontiert sind.
****Abbildung 1: Von lebenden Organen zu Organen auf dem Chip .****
## Anwendungen der Organ-on-chip-Technologie
### Entwicklung von Therapien
Organ-on-Chip-Modelle bieten eine bemerkenswerte Vielseitigkeit für das Screening und die Entwicklung von Medikamenten durch innovative technische Methoden und Materialien.
Ein bedeutender Trend zeichnet sich in der Forschung ab, bei der humane induzierte pluripotente Stammzellen (hiPSC) zur Schaffung personalisierter Organmodelle eingesetzt werden. Diese Modelle erleichtern die Erforschung komplexer Kulturaufbauten, indem sie ein Kulturgefäß mit einem mikrofluidischen Kanal unter Verwendung einer porösen Membran verbinden. Diese Konfiguration ist ein ideales Werkzeug für die Untersuchung von Luft-Flüssigkeits-Grenzflächen-Kulturen (ALI), Endothel-/Epithelbarrieren und interzellulärer Kommunikation.
### Entdeckung von Arzneimitteln
Die Weiterentwicklung von In-vitro-Organ-on-Chip-Modellen ist vielversprechend für die Vorhersage menschlicher Reaktionen auf neue Arzneimittel. Diese OOC-Modelle bereiten den Weg für präzise Prognosen und detaillierte Untersuchungen der durch potenzielle Arzneimittel verursachten Vergiftungen beim Menschen. Darüber hinaus erleichtern sie die Erforschung neuer therapeutischer Strategien zur Bekämpfung der beobachteten toxischen Wirkungen. Im Rahmen der Arzneimittelforschung ermöglichen die Erkenntnisse aus diesen Modellen die frühzeitige Identifizierung, Modifizierung und Optimierung von Leitwirkstoffen und fördern so die Entwicklung sichererer Arzneimittel mit höheren Erfolgsaussichten in klinischen Studien.
### Personalisierte Medizin
Organ-on-Chip-Modelle sind unschätzbare Ressourcen für die präzise Vorhersage und Untersuchung potenzieller arzneimittelbezogener Toxizitäten beim Menschen. Sie ermöglichen eine umfassende Analyse der Auswirkungen verschiedener Chemikalien auf patientenspezifisches menschliches Gewebe. Darüber hinaus ebnen sie den Weg für die Erforschung neuer therapeutischer Möglichkeiten, um den beobachteten schädlichen Wirkungen dieser Substanzen entgegenzuwirken. Im Rahmen der Arzneimittelentdeckung helfen die aus diesen Modellen gewonnenen Erkenntnisse nicht nur bei der frühzeitigen Identifizierung, sondern ermöglichen auch die Modifizierung und Optimierung von Leitsubstanzen. Letztlich fördert dieser Forschungsansatz die Entwicklung von sichereren Medikamenten und erhöht deren Erfolgsaussichten in strengen klinischen Studien.
## Präzises Fluidhandeling für Organ-on-chip-Anwendungen
Präzises Fluidhandeling ist ein entscheidender Aspekt von Organ-on-Chip-Anwendungen, da es die genaue Simulation physiologischer Bedingungen gewährleistet und verschiedene Konstellationen ermöglicht. Um ein präzises Fluidhandling bei OOC-Anwendungen zu erreichen, werden mikrofluidische Komponenten wie Mikropumpen, Ventile und mikrofluidische Kanäle eingesetzt. Diese Systeme ermöglichen es den Forschern, Durchflussraten, Gradienten und dynamische Veränderungen der Flussszusammensetzung zu steuern und so eine physiologisch relevante Umgebung für die Untersuchung von Organen und Geweben auf einem Chip zu schaffen.
### Warum ist das präzise Fluidhandeling in OOC-Modellen so wichtig?
#### Nachahmung physiologischer Bedingungen
Organ-on-Chip-Geräte erfordern eine präzise Steuerung der Flussströmung, um die dynamische Mikroumgebung menschlicher Organe genau nachzubilden. Diese Kontrolle stellt sicher, dass die Zellen ähnlichen Scherspannungen und Gradienten ausgesetzt sind, wie im menschlichen Körper.
#### Studien zu zellulären Wechselwirkungen und Tissue Engineering
Die genaue Handhabung von Fluiden ermöglicht die Untersuchung zellulärer Interaktionen, wie zum Beispiel der Interaktionen zwischen Endothel und Epithel oder der Blut-Hirn-Schranke, die für das Verständnis von Krankheiten und Arzneimittelreaktionen von wesentlicher Bedeutung sind. Sie ist auch entscheidend für die Schaffung von Nährstoffgradienten oder Signalmolekülen innerhalb des Chips, die das Gewebewachstum und die Reifung in künstlich hergestellten Geweben fördern.
#### Arzneimitteltests und -entwicklung
Das richtige Fluidhandeling erleichtert die Verabreichung von Medikamenten oder Verbindungen in bestimmten Konzentrationen und Raten und ermöglicht so präzise Medikamententests und Screenings auf Wirksamkeit und Schädlichkeit.
#### Automatisierung und Hochdurchsatzverfahren
Präzise Fluid-Handling-Systeme können automatisiert werden und ermöglichen Experimente und Screening von Substanzen oder Bedingungen im Hochdurchsatzverfahren.
### Beispiele für OOC-Modelle
### Lung-on-chip – Das erste OoC
Die innovative menschliche Lungenalveole auf einem Chip (Abbildung 2) definiert die Organ-on-Chip (OoC)-Technologie neu, indem sie integrierte physiologische und pathophysiologische Reaktionen nachbildet und damit frühere Modelle übertrifft, die sich hauptsächlich auf Zell- oder Gewebefunktionen konzentrierten. Dieses bahnbrechende Organmodell besteht aus zwei parallelen Mikrokanälen, von denen einer mit menschlichen Lungenepithelzellen und der andere mit menschlichen Endothelzellen ausgekleidet ist, die durch eine mikroporöse Membran voneinander getrennt sind.
Nach Erreichen der Zellkonfluenz entsteht durch die Einführung von Luft in das Epithelkompartiment eine Luft-Flüssigkeits-Grenzfläche, die die Auskleidung des alveolären Luftraums nachahmt. Dieses kompartimentierte Mikrogerätedesign ermöglicht eine präzise Steuerung des Flusses, der Zellzufuhr und der Nährstoffverteilung unabhängig von Epithel und Endothel.
*Abbildung 2: Biologisch inspiriertes Design einer atmenden menschlichen Lunge auf einem Mikrochip (2).*
#### Darm-auf-Chip
Sowohl für den Dünn- als auch für den Dickdarm wurden mehrere innovative Modelle der Organ-on-Chip (OoC)-Technologie entwickelt, bei denen Darmepithelzellen mit oder ohne darunter liegendes Endothel verwendet werden. Diese Modelle dienen einem doppelten Zweck: der Nachbildung verschiedener Krankheiten und der Untersuchung des Arzneimittelstoffwechsels und der Toxizität.
Im Dünndarm-Chip wurde die dynamische Flüssigkeitsströmung als Schlüsselfaktor identifiziert, der die Zottenbildung und die Produktion von Becherzellen fördert, während er gleichzeitig den Aufbau einer schützenden Schleimschicht in Dickdarm-Chips begünstigt. Darüber hinaus ist die Nachahmung von peristaltikähnlichen mechanischen Bewegungen für eine optimale Gewebedifferenzierung entscheidend. So förderten zyklische mechanische Dehnungen und die Verbesserung des Flüssigkeitsflusses in Colon-on-Chip-Modellen das Wachstum von Bakterien, zum Beispiel von Shigella-Bakterien.
#### Tumor-auf-Chip
Tumor-on-Chip-Modelle entwickeln sich rasch zu leistungsfähigen Instrumenten in der Onkologieforschung. Diese innovativen Systeme bilden entscheidende Elemente der Tumormikroumgebung (TME) wirksam nach, darunter biochemische Gradienten, Nischenfaktoren, komplizierte Zellinteraktionen und komplexe Gewebestrukturen aus Tumor- und Stromazellen (3). Tumor-on-Chip-Designs zielen auf die Nachbildung von Gewebe-Gewebe-Schnittstellen ab und sind von zentraler Bedeutung für die Nachbildung der komplexen Interaktionen während der Krebsinvasion und Metastasierung. Zahlreiche Modelle wurden entwickelt, um die Tumor-Umgebung zu untersuchen und das Verhalten von Tumorzellen zu erforschen. Zum Beispiel die Reaktion von Zellen auf Stoffwechselgradienten. Ein weiteres Beispiel ist der Einsatz von TOC-Modellen, die das Verständnis des Stoffwechsels und der Arzneimittelresistenz von Tumorzellen in einer hypoxischen Umgebung in vivo erleichtern. Diese innovative Plattform ist vielversprechend, um entscheidende Aspekte des Tumorverhaltens zu entschlüsseln und Strategien zur Bewältigung der damit verbundenen Herausforderungen zu entwickeln.
## Fluigents Beitrag zum OOC-Bereich
Bei Fluigent dreht sich alles um die Förderung des wissenschaftlichen Fortschritts, insbesondere auf dem dynamischen Gebiet der Organ-on-Chip-Technologie. An vorderster Front suchen wir ständig nach neuen Wegen, um die Forschung voranzutreiben, und streben danach, innovative Lösungen zu entwickeln, die die Grenzen der wissenschaftlichen Erforschung neu definieren.
Unser Ziel ist es, neue Entwicklungen voranzutreiben, die die Organ-on-chip-Landschaft revolutionieren. Wir haben uns der Beschaffung und Bereitstellung innovativer Lösungen verschrieben, die es Forschern ermöglichen, biologische Systeme mit größerer Präzision und Effizienz zu erforschen.
[Entdecken Sie unsere Produkte für den Bereich Organ-on-Chip](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-organ-on-chip-anwendungen/losungen-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Referenzen
- Wu, Q.; Liu, J.; Wang, X.; Feng, L.; Wu, J.; Zhu, X.; Wen, W.; Gong, X. Organ-on-a-chip: Recent breakthroughs and prospects. Biomed. Eng. Online 2020, 19, 9.
- Huh, D. et al. Reconstituting Organ-Level Lung Functions on a Chip. Science (1979) 328, 1662– 1668 (2010).
- Imparato, G., Urciuolo, F. & Netti, P. A. Organ on Chip Technology to Model Cancer Growth and Metastasis. Bioengineering 9, 28 (2022)
---
### [Mikrofluidik für Omics-Anwendungen](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-omics-anwendungen/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Was sind Omics?
“Omics” bezieht sich auf Disziplinen, die sich mit der umfassenden Analyse biologischer Makromoleküle in einer Zelle, einem Gewebe oder einem Organismus befassen. Diese Disziplinen beinhalten die Analyse verschiedener biologischer Komponenten in großem Maßstab, typischerweise auf molekularer Ebene, um ein umfassendes Verständnis biologischer Systeme zu erlangen. Diese umfassende Analyse erfordert den Einsatz spezifischer Werkzeuge sowohl für biologische Experimente als auch für die Datenanalyse durch bioinformatische Ansätze.
Hier sind einige Schlüsseldisziplinen der Omics :
- **Genomik**: untersucht den gesamten DNA-Satz eines Organismus (Genom), um dessen Struktur, Funktion, Variationen und Wechselwirkungen zwischen den Genen zu verstehen.
- **Transkriptomik**: untersucht RNA-Moleküle innerhalb einer Zelle, einschließlich ihrer Arten, Häufigkeit und Veränderungen in den Genexpressionsmustern.
- Proteomik: untersucht die Gesamtheit der Proteine in einer Zelle, ihre Funktionen, Strukturen, Veränderungen, Wechselwirkungen und Häufigkeit.
- **Metabolomik**: analysiert die Gesamtheit der kleinen Moleküle oder Metaboliten, die am zellulären Stoffwechsel beteiligt sind, und liefert Erkenntnisse über Stoffwechselwege und physiologische Veränderungen.
- **Epigenomik**: erforscht Modifikationen und Veränderungen der Genexpression, die durch Faktoren außerhalb der DNA-Sequenz verursacht werden, wie DNA-Methylierung und Histon-Modifikationen.
- **Metagenomik**: konzentriert sich auf das genetische Material, das direkt aus Umweltproben gewonnen wird, und bietet Einblicke in mikrobielle Gemeinschaften und ihre genetische Vielfalt.
Abbildung 1: Die “Omics-Revolution” – ein integrierter umfassender “Omics”-Ansatz, der Genomik, Transkriptomik, Proteomik, Metabolomik und Fluxomik zur Förderung der systemischen Wissenschaften und zur Diagnose und Behandlung menschlicher Krankheiten kombiniert (1).
Omics-Analysemethoden sind dabei, die Forschung in den Biowissenschaften radikal zu verändern. Ihre Fähigkeit, die Genome, Transkriptome oder Proteome einzelner Zellen zu bewerten, statt durchschnittliche Zustände innerhalb von Zellpopulationen zu beurteilen, stellt einen bedeutenden Sprung in verschiedenen Bereichen dar. So zum Beispiel in der Krebsbiologie, den Neurowissenschaften, der Therapie mit neuralen Stammzellen und anderen Gebieten.
## Schlüsseltechniken der Omics-Disziplinen
Diese Omics-Disziplinen setzen fortschrittliche Technologien und Hochdurchsatztechniken ein, um große Datensätze zu erzeugen. Durch die Integration und Analyse dieser Datensätze können Forscher komplexe biologische Prozesse und Krankheitsmechanismen verstehen, Biomarker identifizieren und den Weg für eine personalisierte Medizin und gezielte Therapien ebnen.
Omics-Techniken sind weit verbreitet und variieren je nach dem spezifischen Omics-Bereich, der erforscht wird.
- **PCR (Polymerase-Kettenreaktion)**: wird in der Genomik zur Vervielfältigung spezifischer DNA-Sequenzen verwendet und ermöglicht deren Analyse und Identifizierung.
- **Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)**: wird in der Genomik und Transkriptomik zur Sequenzierung von DNA und RNA verwendet und ermöglicht die Analyse von Genomen, Genexpression, Mutationen und Variationen in großem Maßstab.
- **Massenspektrometrie (MS)**: wird in der Proteomik und Metabolomik eingesetzt, um Proteine oder Metaboliten in einer Probe zu identifizieren und zu quantifizieren, was Einblicke in ihre Strukturen, Veränderungen, Wechselwirkungen und Konzentrationen ermöglicht.
- **Bildgebende Verfahren**: werden in verschiedenen Bereichen eingesetzt, um molekulare Strukturen oder Verteilungen in Zellen oder Geweben sichtbar zu machen, zum Beispiel Fluoreszenzmikroskopie, Elektronenmikroskopie und bildgebende Massenspektrometrie.
- **Microarrays**: werden in der Genomik und Transkriptomik eingesetzt, um die Expressionsniveaus von Tausenden von Genen oder RNAs gleichzeitig zu analysieren, was ein Screening mit hohem Durchsatz und einen Vergleich der Genexpressionsmuster ermöglicht.
- **Chromatographie**: wird in der Metabolomik zur Trennung und Analyse komplexer Stoffwechselgemische auf der Grundlage ihrer chemischen Eigenschaften verwendet und hilft bei ihrer Identifizierung und Quantifizierung.
- **Bioinformatik-Tools**: Entscheidend für die Verarbeitung, Analyse und Interpretation der riesigen Datenmengen, die durch Omics-Techniken generiert werden, einschließlich rechnerischer Analyse, statistischer Modellierung und Datenintegration.
*Abbildung 2: Immunfluoreszenz von Neuronenzellen, gefärbt für Mikrotubuli assoziiertes Protein 2 (grün) und für Zellkerne (blau). Die Bilder wurden mit einem konfokalen Mikroskop von Nikon bei 10-facher Vergrößerung aufgenommen.*
Diese und andere Techniken entwickeln sich ständig weiter und verschmelzen mit fortschrittlichen Technologien, was zu einem umfassenden Verständnis biologischer Systeme beiträgt und Innovationen in den Biowissenschaften vorantreibt.
## Präzise Flusshandhabung und der Beitrag von Fluigent für Omics
Die Revolution des Omics-Bereichs ist zu einem großen Teil den auf Mikrofluidik basierenden Techniken zu verdanken, bei denen die Zellen in Tröpfchen, Mikrokanäle oder Mikrozellen aufgeteilt werden, bevor sie der gewünschten Omics-Analyse unterzogen werden.
Die präzise Handhabung von Flüssen ist von grundlegender Bedeutung für verschiedene analytische Prozesse, die mit DNA, RNA, Proteinen und Metaboliten zu tun haben. Sie ist von entscheidender Bedeutung bei Schritten wie der Probenvorbereitung, bei der ein genaues Pipettieren, Verdünnen und Mischen der Proben erforderlich ist. Die Kombination von Automatisierung und präzisem Fluidhandeling erleichtert das Hochdurchsatz-Screening in der Genomik, Transkriptomik und Proteomik und ermöglicht die effiziente Verarbeitung großer Probenmengen.
Insgesamt ist die Gewährleistung von Genauigkeit und Reproduzierbarkeit bei der Probenvorbereitung, -trennung und -analyse entscheidend für die Generierung zuverlässiger Daten, die wesentlich zum Verständnis biologischer Systeme auf molekularer Ebene beitragen.
Fluigent hat sich zum Ziel gesetzt, die Grenzen der Wissenschaft zu erweitern, insbesondere im dynamischen Bereich der Omics-Technologien, und bietet eine Reihe von Produkten an, die diesen Bereich voranbringen.
[Erkunden Sie unsere Produkte hier](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-omics-anwendungen/losungen-fur-die-omics-technologie/)
## Referenzen
1. Nielsen J, Oliver S. Die nächste Welle der Metabolomanalyse. Trends Biotechnol. 2005;23:544-6. Medline:16154652 doi:10.1016/j. Tibtech.2005.08.005
---
### [Mikrofluidische Forschungsgeräte](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
**Published:** December 7, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Was sind die möglichen Forschungsanwendungen?
Mit unseren mikrofluidischen Forschungsgeräten können wir in allen Forschungsbereichen optimale und vielversprechende Ergebnisse liefern.
Im Bereich der Mikrofluidik ermöglichen unsere Produkte die Durchführung hoch reproduzierbarer Experimente. Eine präzise Durchflussteuerung ist wichtig, um die Physik und das grundlegende Verhalten der Strömung in mikrometrischen Kanälen wie mikrofluidischen Chips oder Geräten zu analysieren.
[Erfahren Sie mehr über das mikrofluidische Fachwissen von Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-hohe-flusskontrolle/)
[Erfahren Sie mehr über das Mikrofluidik-Produktangebot von Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-hohe-flusskontrolle/mikrofluidische-losungen/)
Bei Organ-on-a-Chip- und Zellkulturstudien bietet die Mikrofluidik die Möglichkeit, die zelluläre Mikroumgebung mit hoher räumlicher und zeitlicher Präzision zu kontrollieren. Des Weiteren können die Zellen mit mechanischen und biochemischen Signalen in einem physiologisch relevanten Kontext versorgt werden.
[Erfahren Sie mehr über die Zellkultur- und Organ-on-Chip-Expertise von Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-organ-on-chip-anwendungen/)
[Erfahren Sie mehr über das Fluigent Zellkultur- und Organ-on-Chip-Produkt](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-organ-on-chip-anwendungen/losungen-organ-on-a-chip/)
Im Bereich der Tröpfchen- und Partikelerzeugung ermöglichen unsere mikrofluidischen Geräte für Forschungszwecke die Durchführung von Experimenten bei denen eine hohe Monodispersität und Reproduzierbarkeit erforderlich sind (digitale PCR, Verkapselung von Einzelzellen in Tröpfchen usw.). In Fällen, wo ein teurer Wirkstoff verwendet wird, verringert sich der Abfall erheblich.
[Erfahren Sie mehr über die Tröpfchen-und Partikelerzeugung von Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-die-troepfchenerzeugung/)
[Erfahren Sie mehr über die Fluigent-Produkte zur Tröpfchen- und Partikelerzeugung](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-die-troepfchenerzeugung/mikrofluidische-losungen-tropfchenproduktion/)
Im Bereich der Omics, insbesondere der räumlichen Omics, stellt die Mikrofluidik-Technologie einen Durchbruch in der biologischen Forschung dar. Spatial Omics analysiert biologische Moleküle in einem räumlichen Maßstab, während die Mikrofluidik die Präzision und Effizienz erhöht. Diese Integration ermöglicht detaillierte Einblicke in molekulare Interaktionen in Geweben, insbesondere in Bereichen wie der Krebsbiologie. Die Mikrofluidik reduziert den Reagenzienverbrauch, beschleunigt die Experimente und damit einhergehend das Verständnis von Krankheiten für eine bessere Diagnose und Behandlung.
[Erfahren Sie mehr über die Omics-Expertise von Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-omics-anwendungen/)
[Erfahren Sie mehr über das Omics-Produkt von Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-omics-anwendungen/losungen-fur-die-omics-technologie/)
---
### [OEM Industrielle Anwendungen](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/)
**Published:** November 22, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### Lokalisierungsmikroskopie und Flussratenkontrolle für Multiplexing
Die Industrie der Mikroskopie und Bildverarbeitung entwickelt sich ständig weiter, und die Entwicklung sowie Verbesserung von Techniken bringen eine ganze Reihe neuer Anwendungen in der Zellbiologie mit sich. Für einige dieser Anwendungen ist eine stabile und reproduzierbare Flussratenkontrolle erforderlich. Die Mikrofluidik ist hierbei eine häufig verwendete Technologie, da sie zu einem leistungsstarken Multiplexing beiträgt. Erfahren Sie, was Lokalisierungsmikroskopie ist und wie Fluigent sie unterstützt.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/mikrofluidik-oem/oem-microfluidic-applications/localization-microscopy/)
- [
### Ventilautomatisierung mit dem F-OEM für mikrofluidische Anwendungen
Read more to discover application examples, the challenges of fluidic valve automation, and the benefits of using our F-OEM flow control platform.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/mikrofluidik-oem/oem-microfluidic-applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
---
### [OEM Technologien](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/)
**Published:** July 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### 5 Gründe für die Wahl von OEM-Druckreglern anstelle von OEM-Spritzenpumpen für mikrofluidische Anwendungen
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Ein Vergleich von Mikrofluidik-Druckreglern für Ihr maßgeschneidertes System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
---
### [Nachrichten](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
---
### [About us](https://www.fluigent.com/company/about-us/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
**10**
Nationalities
**60**
Workers worldwide
**20**
Patents
**2**
Subsidiaries
**12**
Distributors
## Why Fluigent?
The microfluidic laboratories and industry were struggling to perform their research and develop equipment to the level and precision required in terms of fluid control. As a result there was a need for **faster, more stable and precise technology for fluid handling at the microscale**. Traditional syringe or peristaltic pumps are struggling to deliver this level of performance and could not meet the market needs.
**Fluigent** was the **first company** to solve this problem by introducing an **innovative technology: pressure pumps**. Fluigent’s unique broad range of solutions for use in microfluidic and nanofluidics applications ensure **full control of flow rates with a greater control, automation, precision, ease of use and also minimize contamination.** Fluigent has delivered thousands of patented pressure-flow controllers systems to hundreds of customers worldwide.
Fluigent’s product design and manufacturing activities go **beyond simple assembly activities.** Fluigent masters algorithmic, mechanical, electronical, pneumatic and microfluidic chains.
Research lab can use our **ready to go instruments** for a broad range of applications where fluid control is critical. Industrial companies are able to **integrate Fluigent’s technology** to enhance and improve their own products.
## In the rapidly growing microfluidic sector, Fluigent is a global leader
### What is microfluidics?
Microfluidics is the science of manipulating and controlling fluids, usually in the range of microliters (10-6) to picoliters (10-12), in networks of channels with dimensions from tens to hundreds of micrometers. This discipline takes its origins in the early 1990’s and has grown exponentially. It is viewed as an essential tool for life science research or in a larger way in biotechnologies.
It is a very attractive technology for both academic researchers and industrial groups since it allows:
- The development of new custom therapeutic treatment
- To accelerate the discovery of new medicine and vaccine by reducing time and cost
- To reduce animal testing
- To have a low environmental impact
- To reproduce the mechanical properties of a living human organ at a microscopic scale
Fluigent’s broad range of solutions offer greater control, automation, precision, and ease of use.
- [
### Microfluidics overview: History and Definition
Learn more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
- [
### Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition
Learn more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
## Our vision
Improve everyday reality, make the world a safer place, save lives by accelerating scientific progress and discovery
## They trust us
“The Microfluidics Laboratory of the ESPCI has used the Fluigent equipment for almost 10 years. Pressure-driven fluid handling brought a lot of flexibility and robustness in our daily experiments. The MFCS™-EZ is a strong and reliable device, able to adapt to all types of microfluidic experiments. \[…\] Our laboratory trust Fluigent products, engineers, software developers as well as the entire team that makes every day a great job”
**Fabrice Monti / MMN Laboratory, IPGG**
[See our customer testimonials](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertises/interviews-testimonials/)
“\[…\] We use the pressure-based pumps from Fluigent for experiments that require swift responsiveness when manipulating fluids, and fine tuning at low flow rates. We use the Fluigent systems during the fabrication and running of the microfluidic chips. The ability to pump in air at high precision makes the Fluigent pressure-based systems ideally suited to selectively coat and functionalize micro-channels within a microfluidic network. After coating, we then fill the devices with the experimental solutions and use the pressure controls to move fluids around, open and close valves and carefully time the introduction of small molecules in the experiments.“
**Kareem Al Nahas, University of Cambridge, UK**
## Our Story
Fluigent was founded in 2005 by researchers from the Institute Curie in Paris. Fluigent was the first company to introduce pressure-driven flow control to the microfluidic research market, as opposed to conventional syringe and peristaltic pumps.
## Our values
### Innovation
As pioneers in microfluidics, Fluigent has set the standard in microfluidic control and strives to stay in the forefront of the discipline. Innovation is at the core of what the company does from products to processes.
### Customer focused
In addition to the product performance, Fluigent focuses on ease of use and providing the highest level of technical support to optimize customer experience. Our dedicated team can help you at any time. We are determined to reply to any questions within 24 hours.
### Team work
We come from diverse backgrounds and cultures, but we grow as one team. Our group of engineers and business people work to get the most from our different views to provide our customers with highly qualitative and innovative instruments to respond to their need.
## Our Corporate Social Responsibility
The Sustainable Development Goals are the blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for all. At its heart are the 17 [Sustainable Development Goals](https://sdgs.un.org/) (SDGs), which are an urgent call for action by all countries – developed and developing – in a global partnership.
With innovation at the heart of our activities, Fluigent has been part of this global project. Specifically, we have committed to **Target 9.5** of the Goal 9 INDUSTRIES, INNOVATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE.
Target 9.5 calls upon companies to encourage innovation and substantially enhance scientific research and development workers, upgrade the technological capabilities of industrial sectors in all countries.
In 2020, Fluigent’s microfluidic solutions saved 25,470 hours for R & D researchers.
Fluigent’ s corporate social responsibility can also be seen in our Manufacturing process. Our products are manufactured in our production workshop near Paris. We have been selected to represent #MadeInFrance during the Great Exhibition at the Elysée Palace in July 2021, for the quality of our products and our French expertise.
- Limiting our carbon footprint
- Sustainable mobility transport package (personal bike, carpool, …)
- Installation of video conference systems in our offices to reduce transport-related CO2 emissions
- Recycling of computer waste
- Paper usage limitation: no individual printer
[**Charte Régionale des Valeurs de la République et de la Laïcité**](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/08/charte-regionale.pdf)
## Fluigent all over the world
With a global presence that includes offices and distributors in Europe, North America, Asia, and the Middle East, Fluigent does 70% of its turnover through exports. With a strong growth in the Asian Market in 2021, Fluigent proves its ambition to go further than national borders
fluigent distribution map## Fluigent hires!
Join us and be part of a leading microfluidic scale-up!
---
### [Mikrofluidik OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
**Published:** December 15, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Mikrofluidik OEM: Automatisierte Lösungen für die Handhabung von Flüssigkeiten
Fluigent industrial baut auf 15 Jahre Erfahrung in der druckbasierten Durchflusskontrolle und auf firmeneigene Technologien, um vielseitige, kosteneffiziente und anpassbare mikrofluidische OEM-Produkte und -Systeme für globale Anwender anzubieten.
## Fertigungsmöglichkeiten für Industrieunternehmen
Die OEM-Produkte von Fluigent basieren auf unserer 15-jährigen Erfahrung im Bereich der druckbasierten Flusssteuerung und unseren firmeneigenen Technologien, um vielseitige, kostengünstige und anpassbare mikrofluidische OEM-Fluidhandling-Produkte und -Systeme für Hersteller von Biowissenschaften und Diagnosegeräten anzubieten.
[OEM-Fluigent-Broschüre ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/09/fluigent-oem-brochure.pdf)
## Mikrofluidische Funktionalitäten
+ Zusätzliche Funktionalitäten: Heizelement, Schüttelapparat, Pipettierroboter, Luftblasenentferner, …
## Druckregler für Flüssigkeiten
Hochmoderne, modulare und integrierbare mikrofluidische OEM-Module zur Handhabung von Flüssigkeiten in industriellen Systemen. Entdecken Sie unsere praxiserprobten Module zur Handhabung von Flüssigkeiten.
[Finden Sie Ihren Druckminderer](https://www.fluigent.com/de/industrie/industrie-produkte/druckregler-fur-flussigkeiten/)
## Mikrofluidik-Komponenten
Hochmoderne, modulare und integrierbare mikrofluidische OEM-Module zur Automatisierung des Flüssigkeitsmanagements und zum Aufbau Ihres kompletten mikrofluidischen Systems.
[Finden Sie Ihre mikrofluidischen OEM-Module](https://www.fluigent.com/de/industrie/industrie-produkte/oem-mikrofluidik-komponenten/)
## Vollständig integrierte Systementwicklung
### *Erwecken Sie die Vision Ihres Geräts zum Leben*
Komplette Entwicklung eines voll funktionsfähigen Geräts auf der Grundlage Ihrer Anforderungen. Profitieren Sie von unserer mikrofluidischen OEM-Expertise und unserem einzigartigen Portfolio an Spitzentechnologien, um die Zeit bis zur Marktreife zu verkürzen.
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## Wir unterstützen Ihre mikrofluidische Anwendung
Von der Tröpfchenmikrofluidik bis zur Abbildung von lebenden Zellen – unsere Experten liefern wertvolle Erkenntnisse für Ihre Anwendung.
Entdecken Sie Anwendungsbereiche, in denen die Mikrofluidik die Ergebnisse, die Produktion und die Ausbeute industrieller Prozesse katalysiert.
“Ich war beeindruckt von der Qualität des Produkts. Besonders hervorheben möchte ich die klare und offene Kommunikation des Fluigent-Teams, den reibungslosen Managementstil und natürlich die großartige F&E-Arbeit.”
## Ein zuverlässiger Partner für Ihr mikrofluidisches OEM-System
In den letzten 10 Jahren haben wir mehr als 1.500 mikrofluidische OEM-Module und -Systeme für Unternehmen weltweit geliefert. Unser Forschungs- und Entwicklungsteam macht mehr als 30 % des Unternehmens aus und hat uns zu mehr als 20 Patenten verholfen.
## 65
OEM/Industriekunden auf der ganzen Welt
## 20
Patente bringen uns an die Spitze der Innovation
## 15
Verschiedene voll integrierte OEM-Systeme entwickelt
## 1500**+**
OEM-Systeme und Komponenten geliefert
## 10
Jahre Erfahrung in der OEM-Laborautomatisierung
## Höchste Qualitätsstandards und Konformität – ISO 9001
Wir verbessern kontinuierlich die Qualität unserer Produkte und Prozesse, um die Konformität unserer OEM-Mikrofluidiklösungen sicherzustellen. Wir verpflichten uns zu Qualität und sind nach ISO 9001 zertifiziert. Darüber hinaus haben wir mehrere externe Audits erfolgreich abgeschlossen und bieten Komponenten und Systeme mit zusätzlichen Zertifizierungen wie UL oder IP65 an.
**Wir engagieren uns für die Zufriedenheit unserer Kunden und bieten langfristige Unterstützung, um die besten Lösungen für die Bedürfnisse unserer Kunden zu entwickeln.**
Für weitere Informationen oder ein technisches Gespräch.
---
### [Fortschrittliche Lösungen für die Organ-on-a-Chip-Forschung ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-organ-on-chip-anwendungen/losungen-organ-on-a-chip/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Flow-EZ Druckflussregler
Der Flow EZ stellt eine innovative Lösung für die präzise Handhabung von Flüssigkeiten dar. Dieser druckgesteuerte Durchflussregler wurde für eine nahtlose Integration und präzise Steuerung entwickelt und bietet eine unvergleichliche Vielseitigkeit und Zuverlässigkeit im Fluidmanagement für verschiedene Anwendungen, insbesondere für Zellkultur- und Organ-on-a-Chip-Anwendungen.
Mit seiner benutzerfreundlichen Oberfläche und seinem kompakten Design vereinfacht der Flow EZ die Durchführung von Experimenten und ermöglicht es Forschern, Durchflussraten und Drücke mühelos und mit außergewöhnlicher Genauigkeit zu manipulieren. Dieses Instrument ist ein unverzichtbares Werkzeug für die präzise Kontrolle von Flüssigkeiten und erleichtert verschiedene Experimente in Bereichen wie der Zellbiologie und der pharmazeutischen Forschung.
### Merkmale des FlowEZ
- **Erweiterbar auf bis zu 12 Module**: Wenn Sie Ihren Arbeitsablauf erweitern, bietet das thFlow EZ™-System eine beispiellose Skalierbarkeit und ermöglicht die nahtlose Integration von bis zu **12 Modulen**. Jeder mikrofluidische Durchflussregler fungiert als unabhängiger und dedizierter Druckkanal, der optimale Kontrolle und Flexibilität bei Ihren Experimenten gewährleistet.
- **Druck- und Vakuumkontrolle**: Mit den Modulen der Flow EZ™-Reihe wird die präzise Druck- und Vakuumregelung zum Kinderspiel. Stellen Sie Drücke von **-800 mbar bis 7 bar** präzise ein, um optimale Bedingungen für Ihre Experimente zu gewährleisten.
- **Lokale manuelle Steuerung**: Übernehmen Sie das Kommando, ohne an einen PC gebunden zu sein! Die Flow EZ™-Hardwareschnittstelle ermöglicht die lokale Steuerung, so dass Sie die Einstellungen direkt über das Modul vornehmen können.
- **Präzision bei der Flüssigkeitszufuhr**: Das System mit einer FLOW UNIT bietet eine hohe Kontrolle über die Durchflussraten und eine präzise Volumendosierung und bietet einen dynamischen Bereich, der auf die Anforderungen Ihres Experiments zugeschnitten ist.
- **Anpassbare Reservoir-Optionen**: Das Flow EZ™ eignet sich für ein Spektrum von Reservoirgrößen, von **2 mL bis zu Ein-Liter-Laborflaschen**. Der Durchfluss ist über längere Zeiträume stabil, ohne dass häufiges Nachfüllen erforderlich ist, und gewährleistet so tagelanges, ununterbrochenes Experimentieren.
### Beispiel einer Anwendung mit FlowEZ
Roger D. Kamm vom MIT und sein Team (1) haben ein fortschrittliches mikrofluidisches Modell entwickelt, das die menschliche Blut-Hirn-Schranke (BHS) simuliert und mit dem Flow-EZ-Druckregler von Fluigent integriert ist. Dieser Aufbau ermöglicht quantitative Analysen der Gefäßpermeabilität. Ihr mikrofluidisches Gerät, das in Nature Protocols vorgestellt wurde, ist ein innovatives Modell der menschlichen BHS. Es ahmt die vaskuläre Morphologie, die entsprechende zelluläre Organisation, die Transportfähigkeiten und die relevanten Gen-/Proteinexpressionsprofile nach, die für eine umfassende Forschung unerlässlich sind.
Nat Protoc 17, 95–128 (2022). [https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w "https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-021-00635-w")
*Abbildung Immunfluoreszenzfärbung für Adherens VE Cadherin und Tight Junction Proteine ZO 1 in den MVNs der BHS 1*
## Automatisierte Organ-on-a-Chip-Plattform
Omi, die automatisierte Organ-on-a-Chip-Plattform von Fluigent, ist die neueste Ergänzung auf dem Gebiet der Organ-on-a-Chip-Technologie. Sie ermöglicht die Rationalisierung und Verbesserung des Forschungsprozesses für Wissenschaftler und Forscher.
Omi bietet eine automatisierte Kontrolle über verschiedene Parameter, die es den Forschern ermöglicht, komplexe physiologische Umgebungen genau nachzuahmen. Mit seiner benutzerfreundlichen Oberfläche und der präzisen Fluidiksteuerung ermöglicht diese Plattform eingehende Untersuchungen zellulärer Interaktionen, Krankheitsmodellierung, Medikamententests und vieles mehr.
Mit ihrem modularen Design und ihrer hohen Anpassungsfähigkeit unterstützt die Plattform die problemlose Nachbildung verschiedener Organ-on-Chip-Modelle und bietet Flexibilität und Skalierbarkeit. Sie wurde entwickelt, um experimentelle Arbeitsabläufe zu optimieren, und gewährleistet effiziente und reproduzierbare Ergebnisse. Sie ermöglicht die langfristige Rezirkulation, Injektion und Entnahme von Flüssigkeiten auf eine Weise, die die Erstellung von Protokollen für komplexe Organ-on-a-Chip-Studien vereinfacht.
### Merkmale der automatisierten Organ-on-a-Chip-Plattform, Omi
- **Vielseitigkeit**: Omi bietet anpassbare Protokolle, einschließlich Perfusion, Rezirkulation, Injektion und Probenahme mit Präzision und Leichtigkeit. Dank des mitgelieferten Adapters ist es auch für jede Art von mikrofluidischem Chip geeignet.
- **Kompakt und tragbar**: Omi passt in Inkubatoren und unter das Mikroskop. Er ermöglicht einen einfachen Wechsel zwischen Inkubator, Haube und Mikroskop, ohne dass der Fluss unterbrochen wird.
- **Ferngesteuert**: über WIFI-Verbindung und die Omi-Anwendung für iOS/Android, die die Einrichtung und Überwachung von Protokollen ermöglicht und ultimativen Komfort und Kontrolle bietet.
- **Autonomie**: mit einer Batterielebensdauer von 2 Stunden, die einen reibungslosen Übergang vom Inkubator zu den Bildgebungssystemen für unterbrechungsfreie Experimente und Analysen ermöglicht.
- **Datenspeicherung** in der Cloud für leichteren Zugriff.
[Omi Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-omi-de.pdf)
## Zellperfusionspaket für hohen Durchsatz
Das von Fluigent angebotene Organ-on-Chip-Perfusionspaket für die Hochdurchsatzforschung stellt einen bedeutenden Fortschritt auf dem Gebiet der biomedizinischen Forschung dar. Dieses Paket wurde entwickelt, um die Organ-on-Chip-Forschung durch Multiplexing und Entwicklung von Hochdurchsatz-Experimenten einen Schritt weiter zu bringen! Es ermöglicht die Perfusionskontrolle für mehrere Organ-on-a-Chip-Modelle gleichzeitig.
Mit seiner benutzerfreundlichen Schnittstelle gewährleistet es die präzise Steuerung von Durchflussraten, Drücken und Probenentnahme bei mehreren Experimenten und maximaler Chip-Perfusion.
Das Paket enthält den Fluigent MFCS-EX Microfluidic Flow Controller, Sensoren für bidirektionale Durchflusseinheiten, den BeOnChip Microfluidic Chip und ein Inkubator-kompatibles Reservoir-Haltersystem.
### Merkmale des Hochdurchsatz-Zellperfusionspakets
- **Stabile und komplexe Flussmuster:** Mit dem Cell Perfusion Pack sind wir in der Lage, eine beispiellose Reaktionsfähigkeit zu erreichen und komplizierte Flussmuster, wie zum Beispiel Druckschwankungen in der Aorta, effektiv zu reproduzieren. Diese präzise Steuerung garantiert ein konsistentes und verlässliches experimentelles Umfeld und reduziert die experimentelle Variabilität erheblich.
- **Protokollautomatisierung und eine benutzerfreundliche Schnittstelle:** Nach der Optimierung der Parameter wird die Automatisierung der Protokolle zum entscheidenden Schritt für Zeiteffizienz, Kontaminationsreduzierung und Minimierung der Variabilität. Fluigent-Durchflusssteuerungen bieten die Möglichkeit, Protokolle mithilfe einer benutzerfreundlichen Software (OxyGEN) nahtlos zusammenzustellen und zu automatisieren, wodurch die Automatisierung beliebiger Protokolle, Ventile oder Druckeinstellungen ermöglicht wird.
- **Vielseitig & anpassbar:** Diese Einrichtung kann mit jeder Art von mikrofluidischem Chip und für jede Art von Anwendung verwendet werden. Die Modularität des Zellperfusionspakets ermöglicht es Forschern, Experimente zu entwerfen, die auf ihre individuellen Forschungsfragen zugeschnitten sind.
### Beispiel für eine Anwendung der Plattform
Dieser Aufbau ermöglicht die Evaluierung potenzieller Arzneimittelkandidaten in einem realistischeren physiologischen Kontext. Seine Hochdurchsatzfähigkeiten erleichtern das gleichzeitige Screening mehrerer Wirkstoffe, wodurch sich die Fristen für die Arzneimittelentdeckung verkürzen und die Kosten senken lassen.
In diesem Anwendungsbeispiel entwickelten Chakrabarty et al. (2) eine neuartige mikrofluidische Cancer-on-a-Chip-Plattform zur Bewertung des Ansprechens von Patienten auf eine Behandlung. Diese Plattform gewährleistet kontrollierte Wachstumsbedingungen für Tumorgewebeschnitte und ermöglicht eine genaue Vorhersage der Behandlungsergebnisse für Brust- und Prostatatumor-Modelle. Bemerkenswerterweise konnte die Kulturdauer auf bis zu 14 Tage ausgedehnt werden, ohne die Gewebequalität zu beeinträchtigen, was die Robustheit der Plattform für längere Experimente unter Beweis stellt.
 *Abbildung: Querschnitt des Cancer-on-a-Chip, der die Diffusion und Perfusion zum Gewebeschnitt zeigt. Die CoC-Plattform ist für die gesamte Kulturdauer an das Hochdurchsatz-Zellperfusionspaket von Fluigent angeschlossen (2).*
## Mikrofluidik-Chips für Zellkulturen & Organ-on-chip-Modelle
Die Mikrofluidik zeichnet sich durch eine präzise Kontrolle der zellulären Mikroumgebung aus und ermöglicht es den Zellen, mechanische und biochemische Signale mit außergewöhnlicher Präzision zu empfangen. Organ-on-Chip schafft ein optimales Umfeld für die Untersuchung der molekularen und zellulären Dynamik, die die menschliche Organfunktion bestimmt, und erleichtert die Entdeckung potenzieller therapeutischer Ziele in einer kontrollierten In-vitro-Umgebung.
Fluigent bietet eine breite Palette von Mikrofluidik-Chips für verschiedene Anwendungen wie Zellkultur, Organ-on-Chip, Chemotaxis-Assays usw. an. Sie reichen von Standard-Flusszellen für die Mikroskopie bis hin zu 3D-Zellkulturgeräten.
- **Be-flow**: für 2D- und 3D-Zellkulturen
- **Be-doubleFlow**: Es besteht aus zwei durchströmbaren Kanälen, die über eine poröse Membran verbunden sind
- **Be-gradient Barrier Free**: Entwickelt für die Anwendung von elektrochemischen Gradienten in 3D-Zellkulturen
- **Be-transFlow**: Ermöglicht die Untersuchung komplexer Kulturkonfigurationen durch die Verbindung eines Kulturraums mit einem mikrofluidischen Kanal über eine poröse Membran. Dies ist das optimale Gerät für Air Liquid Interface (ALI)-Kulturen, Endothel/Epithel-Barriere und Crosstalk-Studien.
- **Focht Chamber System 2 (FCS2®)**: Es handelt sich um ein geschlossenes System für die Mikrobeobachtung von lebenden Zellen. Neben der gleichmäßigen Temperaturregelung und der benutzerdefinierbaren Perfusionsfunktion ist sie mit allen Mikroskopieverfahren kompatibel.
[Mikrofluidik für Organ-on-Chip-Anwendungen ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fur-organ-on-chip-anwendungen/)
## Referenzen
1. Nat Protoc 17, 95–128 (2022).
2. Chakrabarty S, Quiros-Solano WF, Kuijten MMP, Haspels B, Mallya S, Lo CSY, Othman A, Silvestri C, van de Stolpe A, Gaio N, Odijk H, van de Ven M, de Ridder CMA, van Weerden WM, Jonkers J, Dekker R, Taneja N, Kanaar R, van Gent DC. A Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform Predicts Drug Response Using Organotypic Tumor Slice Culture. Cancer Res. 2022 Feb 1;82(3):510-520. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-21-0799. Epub 2021 Dec 6. PMID: 34872965; PMCID: PMC9397621.
---
### [Smart Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Unsere Expertise
Unsere Lösungen haben sich in einem breiten Spektrum von Branchen bewährt: (Biowissenschaften, Wassermanagement, Kosmetik, Lebensmittel und Getränke…)
Erfahren Sie mehr über diese zukunftsweisende Technologie in unserem Artikel Warum eine druckbasierte Lösung die beste Pumpmethode für Ihre Anwendung sein kann ?
[Forschung](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/)
[Industriell](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidik-oem/)
### Forschung
- [
### Mikrofluidik für hohe Flusskontrolle
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-hohe-flusskontrolle/)
- [
### Mikrofluidik für die Tröpfchenerzeugung
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-die-troepfchenerzeugung/)
- [
### Mikrofluidik für Organ-on-Chip-Anwendungen
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-organ-on-chip-anwendungen/)
- [
### Mikrofluidik für Omics-Anwendungen
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-omics-anwendungen/)
### Industriell
- [
### Lokalisierungsmikroskopie und Flussratenkontrolle für Multiplexing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/mikrofluidik-oem/oem-microfluidic-applications/localization-microscopy/)
- [
### Ventilautomatisierung mit dem F-OEM für mikrofluidische Anwendungen
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/mikrofluidik-oem/oem-microfluidic-applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
- [
### 5 Gründe für die Wahl von OEM-Druckreglern anstelle von OEM-Spritzenpumpen für mikrofluidische Anwendungen
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Ein Vergleich von Mikrofluidik-Druckreglern für Ihr maßgeschneidertes System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
## Warum mit uns arbeiten?
Fluigent war das erste Unternehmen, das druckbasierte Lösungen für die Durchflussregelung eingeführt hat. Es hat sich gezeigt, dass die druckbasierten Lösungen den Anwendern im Vergleich zu herkömmlichen Technologien (Spritzen- und Schlauchpumpen) grundlegende Vorteile in Bezug auf die erreichbare Durchflussgenauigkeit, Zuverlässigkeit und Automatisierungsoptionen bieten.
[Über uns](/de/company/about-us/)
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## Nachrichten
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company newsInsights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics July 16, 2024
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
---
### [Fortschrittliche Lösungen für die Omics-Technologie](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-omics-anwendungen/losungen-fur-die-omics-technologie/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Automatisiertes sequenzielles Injektionssystem: Aria
Fluigent stellt Aria vor, unser automatisiertes sequenzielles Injektionssystem, das für präzise Zellperfusion oder zeitgesteuerte Injektionsprotokolle maßgeschneidert ist. Mit Aria können Anwender die Zufuhr von bis zu 10 verschiedenen Lösungen in eine Kammer oder einen mikrofluidischen Chip automatisieren und dabei personalisierte Protokolle einhalten.
Bei der Langzeitbildgebung von kultivierten Zellen ist die Aufrechterhaltung kontrollierter Umgebungsbedingungen entscheidend. Aria ermöglicht eine kontinuierliche Flüssigkeitszufuhr des Mediums und gewährleistet so optimale physiologische Bedingungen für die Zellen. Die kontinuierliche Zufuhr von Nährstoffen und der kontrollierte pH-Wert schaffen eine ideale Umgebung und verhindern gleichzeitig die Ansammlung von Zellrückständen.
Unser multifunktionales Flüssigkeitsinjektionssystem minimiert den Scherstress auf die Zellen, ermöglicht einen nahtlosen Wechsel zwischen mehreren Flüssen und gewährleistet einen kontinuierlichen Medienfluss trotz Druckschwankungen. Zusätzliche Komponenten, einschließlich Durchflusssensoren, gewährleisten eine präzise Kontrolle der Durchflussraten und die reibungslose Durchführung von Medienwechseln.
### Merkmale von Aria
- **Abgabe von bis zu 10 Lösungen**: Aria ist vielseitig, da es die Abgabe von Volumina von 40 µL bis zu mehreren hundert ml über längere Zeiträume ermöglicht. Die Software des Aria liefert dem Benutzer wichtige Informationen, einschließlich der genauen Abgabezeiten für jede Lösung. Außerdem informiert sie die Benutzer über das Mindestvolumen, das in jedem Reservoir erforderlich ist, um ihre Protokolle nahtlos auszuführen.
- **Automatisierung der Protokolle**: Mit der benutzerfreundlichen Software von Aria lassen sich Protokolle mit nur wenigen Klicks erstellen. Die Benutzer können für jeden Schritt des Injektionsprotokolls Parameter wie Inkubationszeit, Flussrate und dosiertes Volumen festlegen. Die Protokolle können aufgezeichnet werden, was den Austausch unter den Anwendern erleichtert.
- **Reduzierung der Variabilität**: Aria minimiert die Variabilität zwischen den Experimenten auf etwa 0,5 %, was eine bemerkenswerte Verbesserung im Vergleich zu den 5,1 % Intraoperator-Variabilität und 8,1 % Interoperator-Variabilität darstellt, die normalerweise bei der Verwendung einer Pipette beobachtet werden.
- **Erhalt der Probenintegrität**: Die Probe wird ohne Kontaminationsrisiko gehandhabt und bleibt während des gesamten Protokolls unberührt, wodurch die Gefahr einer Kontamination durch manuelle Bedienung verringert wird.
- **Ideal für bildgebende Studien**: Aria kann über TTL-Signale mit verschiedenen Mikroskopen synchronisiert werden. Dadurch kann das Gerät sowohl TTL-Signale senden als auch empfangen und einen Bildgebungszyklus einleiten oder das Aria-Injektionsprotokoll nach Abschluss des Bildgebungszyklus wieder aufnehmen.
[Aria Datsheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-aria-de.pdf)
### Aria 2-Schalter vs. Aria M-Schalter
Unabhängig davon, ob ein Kanal oder mehrere Kanäle, kann Aria in Kombination mit verschiedenen Switch-Ventilen verwendet werden. Mit dem 2-Switch kann ein Kanal perfundiert werden, mit dem M-Switch können bis zu 9 Kanäle perfundiert werden. Die Durchflussraten liegen zwischen 3,2 µL/min und 1 mL/min, je nach verwendeter Durchflusseinheit.
Aria ist der perfekte Kompromiss zwischen manuellem Pipettieren und All-in-One-Systemen, die für eine spezifische Anwendung bestimmt sind und ein Mikroskop, einen speziellen Chiptyp und einen bestimmten Lösungssatz integrieren. Jedes Protokoll mit mehrfacher Lösungszufuhr kann automatisiert werden, was dem Wissenschaftler Zeit spart und die Variabilität zwischen den Experimenten im Vergleich zu manuellen Verfahren verringert.
### Beispiel einer Anwendung mit Aria
In dieser Studie haben Radtke et al. (1) die Automatisierungsmöglichkeiten unseres automatisierten sequentiellen Perfusionssystems Aria vorgestellt. Sie demonstrierten dessen reibungslose Synchronisierung mit einem Weitfeldmikroskop für die automatisierte und multiplexe Antikörper-Markierung. Aria zeichnet sich durch seine Vielseitigkeit aus, da es TTL-Signale sendet und empfängt und so die Einleitung von Bilderfassungszyklen und die Wiederaufnahme von Perfusionsprotokollen nach deren Abschluss ermöglicht.
Diese robuste Technik nutzt eine iterative Färbe- und Bleichmethode, um eine hochauflösende Bildgebung zu erreichen, die die Bewertung von über 65 Parametern ermöglicht. Das “Iterative Bleaching Extends Multiplexing-Protocol (IBEX)” bietet eine zuverlässige und konsistente Methode zur Durchführung umfassender zellulärer Analysen und räumlicher Untersuchungen in komplizierten Geweben wie gesunden Organen, infizierten Organen oder Tumormikroumgebungen.
Abbildung 2 und 3 zeigen einige Beispiele von Bildern, die mit der automatisierten IBEX-Methode in menschlichem Gewebe gewonnen wurden.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/03/expertise-review-ibex-aria-jejunum-2-1.png)*Abbildung 2: Bilder aus dem menschlichen Jejunum (sechs Zyklen, 16 von 24 Parametern gezeigt). Skalenbalken: 200 µm (links), 50 µm (cyanfarbener Kasten), 25 µm (roter Kasten) (1).*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/03/expertise-review-ibex-aria-skin-1.png)*Abbildung 3: Bilder von menschlicher Haut (fünf Zyklen, 15 von 19 Parametern gezeigt). Skalenbalken: 200 µm (links), 25 µm (Einschübe). Keratin 10 (K10), Keratin 14 (K14) (1).*
Darüber hinaus erstreckt sich die Automatisierung von Aria auf verschiedene Anwendungen wie DNA-Paint, OligoSTORM, Dosis-/Wirkungsstudien, automatisierte Multiplex-Immunfluoreszenzexperimente oder dynamische Pulse-Chase-Experimente und bietet automatisierte Lösungen für verschiedene experimentelle Szenarien.
[Aria Datsheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-aria-de.pdf)
## Kammer für Lebendzell-Bildgebung: Focht Chamber System 2
Das FCS2 ist eine vielseitige, gebrauchsfertige Lösung, die für eine präzise Kontrolle der Mikroumgebung entwickelt wurde und eine präzise Temperatur- und Flussregelung bietet, die mit verschiedenen Mikroskopietechniken kompatibel ist. Dieses System integriert eine hochgradig N.A.-kompatible, gleichmäßig temperierte mikroskopische Durchflusszelle mit einem anpassbaren Probenbereich, der für inverse Mikroskope konzipiert ist.
### Merkmale der FCS2-Kammer
- **Kompatibilität mit der Bildgebung**: Sie ist mit allen Arten der Mikroskopie kompatibel, was ihre Vielseitigkeit in der Anwendung gewährleistet. Sie ist besonders gut für hochauflösende Bildgebung geeignet und bietet optimale Leistung.
- **Vollständige Flusskontrolle:** Eine präzise Steuerung des Volumens innerhalb des optischen Hohlraums ist gewährleistet. Das System bietet entweder eine laminare Strömung oder anpassbare Strömungsmuster. Der Benutzer hat die volle Kontrolle über das Profil des Strömungskanals und die Scherspannung entsprechend seinen Anforderungen.
- **Temperaturregelung**: Die Temperaturregelung erfolgt innerhalb eines engen Bereichs von 0,2 Grad. Es ist die einzige einheitliche Temperierkammer auf dem Markt, die die Probenebene umfassend abdeckt. Das System verfügt über hocheffiziente, schnelle Temperaturstabilisierungsfunktionen. Darüber hinaus bietet es eine Temperaturregelung sowohl über als auch unter den Umgebungsbedingungen.
- **Zellbildgebung**: Das System eignet sich für adhärente Zellen, Gewebe oder suspendierte Zellen und ist somit vielseitig in der Handhabung verschiedener Probentypen.
### Beispiel einer Anwendung mit Aria
In Zusammenarbeit mit Samy GOBAA (Leiter der Abteilung für Biomaterialien und Mikrofluidik am Institut Pasteur) und Heloïse Mary (Forschungsingenieurin am BMcf) stellen wir ein neuartiges automatisiertes Immunfluoreszenzprotokoll (IF) vor, das das automatisierte sequenzielle Injektionssystem (Aria) und die FCS2-Bildgebungskammer von Bioptechs integriert.
*Abbildung 4: Automatisiertes Immunfluoreszenzprotokoll mit Aria und der FCS2-Kammer.*
*Abbildung 4: HUVEC-Zellen, gefärbt mit Phalloidin-AF488 zur Visualisierung von F-Aktin, UEA1-Electin-DyLight als Membranmarker für Endothelzellen und DAPI zur Färbung der Zellkerne.*
Wir haben die Vorteile des Einsatzes von Aria und der FCS2-Imaging-Kammer für automatisierte Immunfluoreszenzverfahren aufgezeigt (Abbildung 5). Unsere Studie zeigt, dass diese Methode die Verarbeitungszeit drastisch verkürzt und das Verfahren in nur 4 Stunden und 30 Minuten abgeschlossen werden kann. Dies bedeutet eine erhebliche Zeitersparnis gegenüber der traditionellen manuellen Pipettiermethode, die in der Regel bis zu 6 Stunden dauert.
Die Automatisierung dieses Prozesses ermöglicht es den Forschern, Multitasking zu betreiben und so ihre Zeit und Ressourcen zu optimieren. Darüber hinaus eignet sich dieses anpassungsfähige Protokoll sowohl für Zellen auf Deckgläsern als auch für Zellen oder Gewebe in mikrofluidischen Chips und stellt somit ein wertvolles Instrument für die Weiterentwicklung der Forschung in der Zell- und Molekularbiologie dar.
## Referenzen
- Radtke, A.J., Chu, C.J., Yaniv, Z. et al. IBEX: an iterative immunolabeling and chemical bleaching method for high-content imaging of diverse tissues. Nat Protoc 17, 378–401 (2022).
---
### [Fortschrittliche Lösungen für die Tröpfchenproduktion ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-die-troepfchenerzeugung/mikrofluidische-losungen-tropfchenproduktion/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Tröpfchen-Plattformen
### Verkapselungsplattform für FACS
Secoyas **Zellverkapselungsplattform für FACS** nutzt Flusskontrollgeräte von Fluigent und Emulsionstechnologie von Secoya. Das **System ermöglicht die Hochdurchsatzverkapselung komplexer und einzelner Zellen in hochmonodispersen Doppelemulsionströpfchen** (<90 µm), die für weitere Analysen geeignet sind.
[plattform für FACS Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-encapsulation-platform-for-facs-de.pdf)
**Dieses schnelle und einfache System ermöglicht die Verkapselung von Zellen in einem wässrigen Kern** (z. B. Medium, PBS) **und einer Ölemulsion** (z. B. HFE 7500), die als leistungsfähiges Werkzeug für biochemische und zelluläre Assays dient. Die Plattform ermöglicht die Isolierung jeder Zelle in Mikroreaktoren, die Hervorhebung ihrer Eigenschaften und die Konzentration der Signale auf messbare Werte, um aussagekräftige biologische Daten zu erhalten.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/cell-encapsulation-set-up-cn.png)Standard-Plattform für die Verkapselung von Zellen
**Merkmale der Zellkapselungsplattform für die Flusszytometrie:**
- **Fluigents Präzision und Flexibilität**: Produzieren Sie robuste und hochgradig monodisperse Emulsionen mit Fluigents druckbasierten Flussreglern und Raydrop, indem Sie die Größe der Tröpfchen und die Hüllendicke präzise steuern.
- **Beginnen Sie sofort mit der Emulsionsproduktion**: Das System ist ein vollständig ausgestattetes, montiertes und kontrolliertes Werkzeug zur Herstellung von Doppelemulsionen mit geringer Einrichtungszeit.
- **Vollständiges und einfach zu bedienendes System**: Für bessere Leistung, erfordert unser System einfache Reinigungsprozesse. Es beinhaltet eine spezielle Optik für eine optimierte Tröpfchenvisualisierung bei hoher Frequenz.
- **Innovative Anwendung für die Zellanalyse**: Das System ist eine einfach zu bedienende Plattform zur Herstellung von Einzelzellverkapselungen in Doppelemulsionströpfchen, die mit Hochdurchsatz-Screening und FACS-Experimenten kompatibel sind.
**Die Verkapselungsplattform für FACS ermöglicht:**
- **Eliminierung des Risikos einer Kreuzkontamination**
- **Schnelles und effizientes Mischen der Reagenzien in den Tröpfchen.**
- **Fähigkeit, mit Zellen von begrenzter Verfügbarkeit zu arbeiten.**
### Beispiel für Anwendungen
**Die Verkapselungsplattform wurde in Verbindung mit der FACS-Sortiertechnologie eingesetzt, um kleine Tröpfchen mit fluoreszierenden E. coli-Bakterien auszusortieren.\[1\]** Es ist unerlässlich, Bakterien in kleinen Tröpfchen einzuschließen, um Einzelzellanalysen durchzuführen und die Streuung von Fluoreszenzsignalen bei Bioassays, die auf der Sekretion von Proteinen oder Enzymen beruhen, zu minimieren.
**Wasser-in-Öl-in-Wasser-Doppelemulsionen** spielen effizient die Rolle eines **Mikrobioreaktors für effizientes Bakterienwachstum**, zelluläre Aktivität und Signaleinschluss, da die Ölhüllenphase ein Austreten der Fluoreszenz verhindert.
**Die mit der Plattform erzeugten W/O/W-Tröpfchen wiesen eine gute Monodispersität auf,** und die Fähigkeit der Plattform, große Mengen an Tröpfchen in kurzer Zeit und bei geringem Verbrauch an biologischer Probe zu erzeugen (200 ml Doppelemulsion in <30 Minuten), war für diese Anwendung hilfreich.
**Mikroskopische Beobachtung und Analyse der fluoreszierende E-Coli enthaltenden Doppelemulsion mit (A) BF + GFP mikroskopischem Bildstapel, (B) dem Kernflächenbefund und (C) dem mittleren Kerndurchmesserwert mit der Standardabweichung; Skalenbalken = 20µm**
**FACS-Maschine für die Sortierung (A) mit einem Zoom auf den Sortierbereich (B) und (C) Zytometrie-Analyse und Gating**
[plattform für FACS Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-encapsulation-platform-for-facs-de.pdf)
---
### Mikrofluidische Plattform für komplexe Emulsionen
**Eine gebrauchsfertige Plattform für alle Arten von Emulsionen und Tröpfchen**
**Diese Plattform zur Herstellung komplexer Emulsionen ist ein schnelles und einfaches Screening-System zur Durchführung von Emulgierprozessen** wie Einfach- und Doppelemulsionen. Sparen Sie Zeit mit einer integrierten, organisierten, sofort einsatzbereiten Plattform und erhalten Sie schnell monodisperse komplexe Emulsionen.
Mikrofluidische Plattform für komplexe Emulsionen
**Merkmale der komplexen Emulsionsplattform:**
- **Sofortiger Beginn der Emulsionsproduktion**: Das System ist ein vollständig ausgestattetes, montiertes und kontrolliertes Werkzeug zur Einrichtung komplexer Emulsions-, Mikropartikel- und Mikrokapselproduktionsprozesse.
- **Ein ausgereiftes System:** Vereinfachte Handhabung durch ein organisiertes System.
- **Einfache Vorbereitung- und Reinigungsprozesse** für mehr Robustheit.
- **Spezielle Optik für optimierte Tröpfchenvisualisierung** bei hohen Frequenzen und Halter für die Fehlersuche bei Luftblasen.
- **Fluigent Präzision:** Produzieren Sie robuste, hoch monodisperse Emulsionen mit druckbasierten Flussreglern von Fluigent und dem Raydrop.
### Beispiele für Anwendungen
**Verkapselung von mehreren Emulsionen in einem einzigen Tröpfchen**
Die Verkapselung mehrerer Emulsionen in einer einzigen Hülle wurde durch die Verwendung von zwei Raydrop-Geräten in einer Reihe auf der komplexen Emulsionsproduktionsplattform demonstriert\[2\]. Durch die Abstimmung der Flussraten der Kernphase kann die Anzahl der verkapselten Kerne gesteuert werden.
**Durch die Integration der Plattformstruktur “zwei Chips in einer Reihe” mit einem Raydrop-Tropfengenerator für Doppelemulsionen ist es möglich, komplexere Emulsionen zu erzeugen. Dies schließt die Verkapselung mehrerer Doppelemulsionen in einem einzigen Tropfen ein.** Diese vielversprechenden Ergebnisse könnten als synergistisches Verabreichungssystem oder als **chemischer Mikroreaktor für inkompatible Wirkstoffe oder Chemikalien dienen.**
**Bilder von Mehrfachemulsionen, die bei unterschiedlichen Flussraten*
*aufgenommen wurden, um die Anzahl der Kerne in einem einzelnen Tropfen zu variieren**
**Zwei RayDrop in einer Reihe angeordnet**
## Mikrofluidische Packung
### PLGA-Mikropartikel-Produktionspackung
**Herstellung von monodispersen PLGA-Mikropartikeln**
**Die PLGA-Mikropartikel-Produktionsstation ist eine robuste, leistungsstarke Lösung zur Herstellung von Polymer-Mikropartikeln** in homogener und vollständig kontrollierter Weise. **Die Leistung des RayDrop-Tropfengenerators** in Verbindung mit der Kombination von Poly(milch-co-glykolsäure) als Verkapselungspolymer und Ethylacetat als Lösungsmittel **bietet eine biokompatible Lösung, die sowohl das Gefahrenrisiko als auch die Ausfällungszeit verringert**.
Der RayDrop und seine Station eignen sich für biologische Anwendungen und bieten eine halbautomatische Lösung für eines der erfolgreichsten Arzneimittelverabreichungssysteme in Labors und Kliniken. **Die Steuerung und Erzeugung von Tröpfchen ermöglicht eine hochgradig monodisperse, stabile und kontinuierliche Produktion im Vergleich zu Batch-Emulsionsverfahren.**
[PLGA-Mikropartikel-Produktionspackung Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-plga-microparticle-de.pdf)
**Merkmale des PLGA-Mikropartikel-Produktionspakets:**
- **Ein komplettes System:** Mit dem PLGA-Pack erhalten Sie alle Komponenten, die Sie für die Herstellung von PLGA-Mikropartikeln benötigen.
- **Eine technisch ausgereifte Lösung**: Wir haben das Paket mit Druckreglern, mikrofluidischen Chips und Ventilen zusammengestellt, um Ihnen maximale Flexibilität in Bezug auf Tröpfchengröße und Generierungsrate zu bieten.
- **Ein spezielles Protokoll:** Es steht ein Protokoll zur Verfügung, das Sie beim Einrichten und Starten Ihrer Experimente unterstützt.
- **Individuelle Anpassung möglich:** Wir können das Standardpaket zur Herstellung von PLGA-Mikropartikeln an Ihre Bedürfnisse anpassen (Tröpfchengröße, Erzeugungsrate, Doppelemulsion).
### Beispiele für Anwendungen
**Die erfolgreiche Herstellung von PLGA-Mikropartikeln mit Durchmessern zwischen 15 und 50 µm wurde bereits nachgewiesen**\[3\]. Im Vergleich zu anderen auf dem Markt erhältlichen Technologien ermöglicht das PLGA-Mikropartikel-Produktionspaket eine hohe Reproduzierbarkeit und eine deutlich erhöhte Monodispersität (CV 2%). Sie ermöglicht eine ununterbrochene, langfristige Produktion von PLGA-Mikropartikeln für den Einsatz in Untersuchungen.
**Herstellung von PLGA-Mikropartikeln mit RayDrop**
[PLGA-Mikropartikel-Produktionspackung Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-plga-microparticle-de.pdf)
---
### Paket zur Erzeugung von Alginatpartikel
**Ein System zur Herstellung monodisperser Alginatpartikel.**
**Das Fluigent Alginatpartikel Generation Pack ist ein robustes und komplettes System für die Herstellung hervorragender monodisperser Alginatpartikel.** Das Generierungspaket ist flexibel, so dass die Alginatpartikel ihre Partikelgröße in Hunderten von Millisekunden ändern können, ohne die Produktion zu unterbrechen.
**Das Generierungspaket wird von den mikrofluidischen LineUP-Pumpen von Fluigent und dem RayDrop-Gerät angetrieben, einer bahnbrechenden Technologie für die Herstellung hochwertiger Partikel und Perlen.**
**Merkmale von Alginatpartikel Generation Pack:**
- **Vollständiges System**: Dieses Paket enthält alle Komponenten, die für die Herstellung von Alginatpartikel erforderlich sind.
- **Ausgereifte Lösung:** Das Paket wurde mit Druckreglern, mikrofluidischen Chips und Ventilen ausgestattet, die in Bezug auf die Tröpfchengröße und die Erzeugungsrate angepasst werden können.
- **Spezielles Protokoll:** Es steht ein Protokoll zur Verfügung, das Sie beim Einrichten und Starten Ihrer Experimente unterstützt.
- **Anpassungen möglich**: Wir können das Paket an Ihre Bedürfnisse anpassen (Tröpfchengröße, Erzeugungsrate).
### Beispiele für Anwendungen
Alginatpartikel sind eines der am meisten untersuchten Materialien zur Verkapselung von Zellen, da sie biokompatibel, ungiftig, biologisch abbaubar und kostengünstig sind\[4\].
**Alginatpartikel können mit dem RayDrop bei präziser Kontrolle der Tröpfchengröße erfolgreich hergestellt werden. Mit einer Alginatlösung in Wasser wurden Partikel mit einem Durchmesser von 95-160µm erzeugt.**
Dieser Aufbau und dieses Protokoll können für die Verkapselung von Säugetierzellen, Bakterien und anderen Reagenzien in Alginatpartikel verwendet werden.
*Verzahnte Perlenproduktion mit RayDrop*
## Microfluidic chips
### PDMS Drop-seq chip for Drop-seq experiments
Drop-seq chip
**Unser Drop-seq-Chip ist ein PDMS-Chip mit 22 operativen Designs einschließlich einer hydrophoben Silanbeschichtung.**
**Merkmale des Drop-seq-Chips:**
- **peziell für Drop-seq:** Jedes Droplet Generation Device basiert auf dem Design, das im neuesten Drop-seq-Protokoll des McCarroll-Labors empfohlen wird, um die besten Erfolgsaussichten zu gewährleisten.
- **Mehr als 22 Experimente pro Chip:** 22 Droplet Generation Devices pro Chip bieten ein optimales Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis in einem langlebigen Chip. Wenn die Lebensdauer eines Geräts erschöpft ist, wechseln Sie einfach zum nächsten Gerät. Außerdem erstellt unser Drop-Seq-Chip schnell Bibliotheken, die für die high throughput bereit sind.
- **Effiziente Produktion von Transkriptbibliotheken:** Die Bibliotheken aus jeder Zelle werden mit einem eindeutigen Strichcode versehen, und es können praktisch über eine Million Zellen pro Experiment mit einem Strichcode versehen werden. Der Arbeitsablauf für die Bibliotheksgenerierung und das Barcoding ist schnell, einfach, robust und widerstandsfähig.
- **Das überlegene Design fördert die optimale Durchmischung der Komponentenflüssigkeiten** und minimiert so das Abscheren der Beads oder die vorzeitige Lyse von Zellen und die Freisetzung von mRNA.
### Beispiele für Anwendungen
**Identifizierung von Zellsubpopulationen**
Eine der Hauptanwendungen des Drop-seq-Chips ist die Untersuchung von Zellpopulationen und die Identifizierung von Zellsubpopulationen. **Durch die Analyse der transkriptomischen Profile einzelner Zellen können Forscher Zellen mit ähnlichen Genexpressionsmustern identifizieren und sie in Subpopulationen einordnen.** Dies kann nützlich sein, um die Vielfalt und Funktion von Zellen in komplexen Geweben wie dem Gehirn oder dem Immunsystem zu verstehen.
**Analyse der Zelldifferenzierung**
Eine weitere Anwendung von Drop-seq ist die Untersuchung von Entwicklungsprozessen. Durch die Isolierung und Sequenzierung einzelner Zellen in verschiedenen Entwicklungsstadien können Forscher verstehen, wie sich die Genexpression im Laufe der Zeit verändert und wie sich Zellen in verschiedene Zelltypen differenzieren. **Dies kann Aufschluss darüber geben, wie sich Organismen entwickeln und wie verschiedene Zelltypen gebildet werden.**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/01/dropseq1-1.png)**Die wichtigsten Schritte der Drop-seq-Methode** (1)
---
### Einfacher Chip zur Tropfenerzeugung EZ Drop
Eine vollständig angepasste Liquid-Handling-Lösung und eine Vielzahl von Zubehör machen Ihren Experimentierprozess so reibungslos und einfach wie möglich. **Mit dem EZ Drop können Sie problemlos mikrofluidische Tropfen mit hoher Monodispersität und Stabilität herstellen, die präzise und genaue Experimente ermöglichen.**
**Merkmale von EZ Drop :**
- **Großer Bereich von Tropfenerzeugungsraten** : Wasser-in-Öl-Tropfen mit bis zu 1 200 Hz
- **Anpassbare Tropfengröße**: Die Tropfengröße lässt sich durch die Steuerung der Flussrate leicht anpassen und ermöglicht so eine präzise Steuerung der erzeugten Tropfengröße. Es können Tropfen mit einer Größe von 20 µm bis 100 µm erzeugt werden.
- **Ein benutzerfreundlicher Mikrofluidik-Chip:** PDMS-Mikrofluidik-Chips mit Markierungen zur Bestimmung der Tropfengröße – Integrierter Widerstand zur Vermeidung von Rückfluss.
### Beispiel für Anwendungen
**Der EZ Drop Chip wurde verwendet, um die Verwendbarkeit von Tensiden für einen beispielhaften digitalen PCR-Test zu demonstrieren.** \[6\] Die erzeugten Tropfen waren homogen in Form und Größe. Die Reproduzierbarkeit der Experimente wurde ebenfalls bestätigt. Die Tropfenenerzeugung mit identischen Parametern führt zu identischer Tropfengröße und -qualität.
*Prozess der Tropfenerzeugung.*
*Der Tropfengenerator arbeitet im Übergangsmodus zwischen Tropf- und Strahlbetrieb. Es sind keine signifikanten Unterschiede in der Betriebsweise sowie in den Tropfengrößen und der Größengleichmäßigkeit zu erkennen.*
## Referenzen
(1) Macosko, E. Z. et al. Highly parallel genome-wide expression profiling of individual cells using nanoliter droplets. Cell 161, 1202–1214 (2015).
---
### [Mikrofluidische Lösungen für präzise Flusskontrolle](https://www.fluigent.com/de/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/mikrofluidik-fuer-hohe-flusskontrolle/mikrofluidische-losungen/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Mikrofluidischer druckbasierter Flussregler
**Fluigent war das erste Unternehmen, das mikrofluidische druckbasierte Flussregler für die Handhabung von Fluiden in der Mikrofluidik eingeführt hat.** Druckgesteuerte Flusssteuerungssysteme arbeiten, indem Behälter mit Proben unter Druck gesetzt und zügig in ein mikrofluidisches Gerät injiziert werden.
Unsere Steuerungen, basierend auf der patentierten FASTABTM-Technologie, sichern einen **stabilen und pulsationsfreien Fluss, was die Genauigkeit und Reproduzierbarkeit der Experimente verbessert**. Die Verwendung von Druck ermöglicht eine schnelle Reaktionszeit und reduziert die Kosten.
**Erhältlich in zwei Hauptproduktlinien: die LineUpTM-Serie für einen evolutiven, kompakten und anpassungsfähigen Betrieb und die MFCS-Serie für kundenspezifische und praxiserprobte Erfahrungen.**
### MFCS
Das MFCS™, oder **Microfluidic Flow Control System**, ist ein druckbasierter mikrofluidischer Flussregler. Es sind entweder 4 oder 8 Kanäle mit verschiedenen Druckbereichen für mikrofluidische Experimente verfügbar. Das MFCS™ erzeugt eine konstante druckgesteuerte Flussrate, die zuverlässige und wiederholbare Experimente ermöglicht.
**Merkmale des MFCS**
- **Unabhängige Kanäle**: Jeder Kanal kann unabhängig gesteuert werden und einen bestimmten Druck oder ein bestimmtes Vakuum zur Handhabung von Flüssigkeiten liefern. Die verfügbaren Druckbereiche reichen von -800 mbar für Vakuumansaugung bis zu 7 bar für Druck.
- **Erzielen Sie schnell hervorragende Ergebnisse:** Erreichen Sie Ihre Druckziele schnell und starten Sie Ihr Experiment sofort. Die praxiserprobte Technologie ermöglicht es Ihnen, schnell zuverlässige und hervorragende Ergebnisse für Ihre Experimente zu erzielen.
- **Zuverlässige und reproduzierbare Ergebnisse:** Das MFCS™ vermeidet Kreuzkontaminationen, da es keinen direkten Kontakt zwischen dem Gerät und den Reagenzien gibt. Die pulslose und präzise Steuerung, die durch unsere druckgesteuerte Technologie ermöglicht wird, ist für wiederholbare Ergebnisse bei vielen Anwendungen entscheidend.
- **Vollständig anpassbar:** Das Design des MFCS™ richtet sich nach Ihren Bedürfnissen. Sie können die Anzahl der Kanäle im Gerät wählen (4 oder 8), wobei jeder Kanal von -800 mbar bis 7 bar reicht. Sie haben ebenfalls die Möglichkeit, eine Druck- oder Vakuumquelle in das Gerät zu integrieren.
---
### LineUP
Unsere LineUp™-Produktreihe ist die nächste Generation von Mikrofluidiksystemen:
- **Mit den Flow EZ™- oder Push-Pull-Modulen lassen sich Druck und Vakuum präzise regeln und steuern, die LINK- und LINK COM-Module ermöglichen die Kommunikation mit einem Computer** oder einem externen Instrument über TTL-Ports, USB-Kabel oder serielle Schnittstelle.
- **Der Adapter wird verwendet, um Flow EZ™-Module mit unterschiedlichen Druckbereichen zu verbinden,** ohne dass zusätzliche Druckquellen erforderlich sind. **Der P-SWITCH ermöglicht die Vervielfachung der Ausgänge des Systems und der SWITCH EZ steuert Mikrofluidikventile.** Das gesamte System ist über eine lokale Steuerung ohne PC-Verbindung steuerbar und kann zusätzlich von der Fluigent-Software überwacht werden, um die Funktionalität zu erweitern und von Automatisierungsvorteilen zu profitieren.
Wählen Sie die Module, die Sie benötigen, und kombinieren Sie sie.
[Flow EZ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-flow-ez-de.pdf)
**Beispiel einer Anwendung mit FlowEZ und MFCS:**
**Hongjuan Wei *et al.*** vom Bioinformatikzentrum der AMMS (Peking) **ist es gelungen, eine universell integrierte Plattform** mit einem entsprechenden Steuerungssystem **für die rationelle und bedarfsgerechte Herstellung von mRNA-Produkten zu entwickeln**. Unter Verwendung unserer druckgesteuerten **Regler (FlowEZ) und Flusssensoren (FlowUnit) wurde ein mRNA-Verkapselungsmodul** auf der Basis eines gestaffelten Fischgräten-Mikromischchips **in diese Plattform integriert. \[1\]**
mRNA-Kapselungsmodul
## Mikrofluidische Sensoren
**Die mikrofluidischen Sensoren von Fluigent ermöglichen eine direkte Kontrolle und Überwachung der Flussrate oder eine Erweiterung der Druck-/Vakuummessung** im Aufbau und bieten somit eine Lösung für die Messung und/oder Kontrolle von Flussraten für alle fluidischen Anwendungen. **Unsere mikrofluidischen Sensoren zeichnen sich durch einen kontrollierten Fluss, eine minimale Verwendung von Reagenzien und Proben, schnelle Analysen, kompakte Bauweise, Systemparallelisierung sowie eine reduzierte Abfallproduktion aus.**
### Flusssensoren
**FLOW UNIT und FLOW UNIT+ sind bidirektionale mikrofluidische Flusssensoren,** die für den eigenständigen Einsatz mit dem Line Up™-Controller oder anderen mikrofluidischen Steuerungssystemen wie der MFCS™-Serie unter Verwendung des Flowboard-Hubs kompatibel sind.
Die mikrofluidischen Flusssensoren FLOW UNIT und FLOW UNIT+ sind in mehreren Low-Rate-Bereichen erhältlich.
[Flow Unit Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/datasheet-flow-unit-v8-de.pdf)
**Merkmale der Flusseinheiten:**
- **Abstimmen von Messungen für verschiedene Flüssigkeiten:** In Verbindung mit einer FLOW UNIT kann ein Skalierungsfaktor zu Ihren Messungen hinzugefügt werden, insbesondere wenn Sie mit Flüssigkeiten arbeiten, für die der Flusssensor nicht spezifisch kalibriert ist. Für organische Lösungen ist bei den FLOW UNIT Modellen S, M+ und L+ eine zweite Kalibrierung mit Isopropylalkohol integriert.
- **Messung der Flussrate:** Die FLOW UNIT und FLOW UNIT+ ermöglichen schnelle und genaue Messungen von sehr kleinen Flussraten.
- **Präzision für verschiedene Flussratenbereiche:** Die verschiedenen FLOW UNIT-Modelle bieten eine große Auswahl an Flussbereichen, um Ihren Anforderungen im Bereich von 7nL/min bis 5mL/min optimal gerecht zu werden.
- **Überwachung und Steuerung von Experimenten**
---
### Drucksensoren
**Die PRESSURE UNIT ist ein eigenständiger mikrofluidischer In-Line-Drucksensor für die kontinuierliche Messung des Drucks in einem fluidischen Pfad.** Mit unserem mikrofluidischen In-Line-Druckdetektor können Sie den Druck stabil, pulslos und reaktionsschnell überwachen und steuern. Es sind drei verschiedene hochpräzise Drucksensoren erhältlich (S, M und XL), je nach dem Druckbereich, den Sie messen möchten.
**Merkmale der Flusseinheiten:**
- **Breiter Erfassungsbereich:** Die PRESSURE UNIT ist ein mikrofluidischer In-Line-Drucksensor, der die genaue Messung von Druck und Vakuum im Bereich von -1000 mbar bis 7 bar ermöglicht. Unser Druckdetektor verfügt über einen breiten Bereich von Messwerten.
- **Anzeige in Echtzeit:** Überwachen Sie die Druckmessung grafisch mit der OxyGEN-Software von Fluigent. Unsere spezielle Software ermöglicht es dem Benutzer, die Datenerfassung direkt auf einem PC zu steuern.
- **Es wird kein Hub benötigt:** Schließen Sie den Sensor direkt an einen PC an und profitieren Sie von einer kompakten Lösung für die Druckerfassung. Der mikrofluidische Inline-Drucksensor kann überall (inline) in Ihrem mikrofluidischen Aufbau angeschlossen werden.
- **Druckkontrolle:** Durch die Kombination eines beliebigen mikrofluidischen Druckdetektors mit unserem Druckkontrollsystem können Anwender eine präzise Druckkontrolle erreichen.
**Beispiel für die Anwendung von Flusseinheiten**
**Colin Sullender *et al.*** vom Functional Optical Imaging Laboratory (University of Texas at Austin) **gelang es, die Unsicherheit des von einer Spritzenpumpe und unserem druckgesteuerten Flussregler erzeugten Flusses zu quantifizieren.** Mit unserem MFCS-EZ-Controller wurde im Vergleich zur Spritzenpumpe ein stabiler und wiederholbarer Fluss erzeugt.
Auf der Grundlage der erzielten Ergebnisse ist der **Wechsel von Spritzenpumpensystemen zu unseren druckgesteuerten Reglern ein Schlüsselparameter, um Flussbedingte Fehler zu beseitigen und zuverlässigere Mess- und Bildgebungsverfahren** für den Fluss zu entwickeln.
Dieser Ansatz eröffnet neue Möglichkeiten in Bezug auf die genaue Bewertung und den Vergleich von Bildgebungsverfahren (wie auch in dieser Arbeit durch den Vergleich von Laser LSCI und Multi-Exposure Speckle Imaging bewiesen wurde). \[2\]
**Schematische Darstellung des mikrofluidischen Flussmessaufbaus.**
**Flusssensormessungen für die Spritzenpumpe (blau) und druckgesteuerte (rot) Flusssysteme* *Vergleich zum idealen vordefinierten Fluss (schwarz)**
## Mikrofluidische Ventile
Mikrofluidikventile, auch Mikroventile genannt, **sind grundlegende Komponenten, die in mikrofluidischen Geräten verwendet werden, um Flüssigkeiten durch verschiedene Ventilanschlüsse zu leiten.**
**Fluigent Mikrofluidik-Ventile ermöglichen es dem Benutzer, den Fluidikpfad eines jeden Experiments zu komplexisieren.** Die Ventile lassen sich leicht in den Aufbau integrieren und in Echtzeit steuern, auch ohne PC.
**Unsere mikrofluidischen Ventile bieten einen minimalen Reagenzienverbrauch, senken die Kosten des Experiments und zeichnen sich durch ein geringes Innenvolumen aus.** Sie verhindern das Risiko von Kreuzkontaminationen und Biofilmbildung und vermeiden Totvolumen. Ihre optimierten Materialien sorgen für eine hohe Stabilität gegenüber mechanischen Bewegungen und eine hohe chemische Verträglichkeit.
**Merkmale der Ventile von Fluigent:**
- **Kompakte Geräte**
- **Automatisierungsmöglichkeiten**
- **Anpassungsfähigkeit und Vielseitigkeit**
- **Bidirektionaler Fluss**
- **Geringes internes Volumen**
- **Schnelle Betätigungszeit**
---
### L-SWITCH™ Einspritzventil 6-fach/2-fach
**Das L-SWITCH™ ist ein bidirektionales Mikrofluidik-Injektionsventil mit 6 Anschlüssen und 2 Positionen, das für die Handhabung von Flüssigkeiten über verschiedene Ventilanschlüsse verwendet wird.** Es ist ideal für eine präzise Volumeninjektion oder für das Umschalten zwischen verschiedenen Flüssigkeiten, da es die Automatisierung der Probeninjektion in Ihrer Flüssigkeitsleitung ermöglicht.
L-SWITCH™ Rezirkulationsventil 6-fach/2-fach
**Das L-SWITCH™ Rezirkulationsventil ist ein bidirektionales mikrofluidisches Rezirkulationsventil mit 6 Anschlüssen und 2 Positionen, das zur Handhabung von Flüssigkeiten über verschiedene Ventilanschlüsse verwendet wird.** Es ist ideal für die Flüssigkeitsrezirkulation in Zellkulturanwendungen und ermöglicht einen langfristigen unidirektionalen Rezirkulationsfluss.
---
### M-SWITCH™ bidirektionales Ventil mit 11 Anschlüssen und 10 Positionen
**Das M-SWITCH™ ist ein mikrofluidisches bidirektionales Ventil mit 11 Ports/10 Positionen für die Injektion oder Auswahl von bis zu 10 verschiedenen Flüssigkeiten oder Chips.** Der Fluss im Ventil ist bidirektional. Das Gerät kann als Verteiler oder als Selektor für Multiplexing- oder Demultiplexing-Zwecke verwendet werden.
---
### 2-SWITCH™ Probenahmeventil 3-Anschluss/2-Wege
**Das 2-SWITCH™ ist ein kompaktes mikrofluidisches 3-Anschluss/2-Wege-Probenahmeventil. Mit Standardanschlüssen kann es in jede mikrofluidische Einrichtung integriert werden.** Sein einzigartiges und kompaktes Design ermöglicht es dem Benutzer, 2-SWITCH™-Geräte zu kombinieren, um Platz auf dem Arbeitstisch zu sparen.
---
**Beispiel für die Anwendung von L-Switch**
Die Wahl des richtigen Geräts zur Reproduktion **der Strömungsbedingungen, unter denen Zellen in vivo experimentieren, ist von großer Bedeutung,** da sie sich auf das Überleben, die Ausbreitung und den Phänotyp der Zellen auswirken und ihre genetische Expression erweitern.
**Ein entscheidender Aspekt dieser Technologie ist die Art des verwendeten Perfusionssystems.** Unter diesem Gesichtspunkt wurde ein Rezirkulationssystem mit druckbasierten Flussreglern für die Steuerung von Organen auf Chips gebaut und mit klassischen Spritzenpumpen verglichen. Zwei Flow EZ-Geräte wurden an zwei Reservoirs angeschlossen. Die Schläuche führten durch den L-SWITCH (der die Rezirkulation der Medien ermöglicht), eine Flusseinheit und das mikrofluidische Gerät.
**Mit dem Flow EZ und dem L-Switch wurde eine stabile Flussrate mit weniger als 2 % Flussschwankung (im Vergleich zu 40 % bei den Spritzenpumpen) beobachtet.** Sie förderte das Überleben der Endothelzellen und die Aufrechterhaltung eines physiologischen Phänotyps.
**Flussrate als Funktion der Zeit unter Verwendung einer Peristaltikpumpe und eines druckbasierten mikrofluidischen Kontrollsystems.**
## Referenzen
1. Wei, H.; Rong, Z.; Liu, L.; Sang, Y.; Yang, J.; Wang, S. Streamlined and On-Demand Preparation of mRNA Products on a Universal Integrated Platform. Microsyst Nanoeng 2023, 9 (1), 97. .
2. Sullender, C. T.; Santorelli, A.; Richards, L. M.; Mannava, P. K.; Smith, C.; Dunn, A. K. Using Pressure-Driven Flow Systems to Evaluate Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging. J. Biomed. Opt. 2023, 28 (03). .
---
### [Ein Vergleich von Mikrofluidik-Druckreglern für Ihr maßgeschneidertes System ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Wie ist das richtige mikrofluidische Flusskontrollsystem zu wählen?
**Kostengünstiger**
**Druckregler** **Standardmodell**
**Druckregler** ****Premium****
****Druckregler (FLUIGENT)**** ****Genauigkeit**** Mittel Gut Ausgezeichnet****Stabilität**** Schlecht bis mittel Mittel Ausgezeichnet **Reaktionszeit und**
**Druckentlastung** ++++++****Sensor-Kalibrierung**** Nicht verfügbar Nicht verfügbar Available **PID/Algorithmus**
**Leistung** Nein (nur analoge E/A) Gut Ausgezeichnet ****Betriebsbereit**** Nein (DAQ) Nein Ja ****Integration von Flusssensoren**** Nicht verfügbar Nicht verfügbar Available ****Regelung der Flussmenge**** Nein Nein Ja, durch den
Fluigent-Algorithmus **Mikrofluidisches Ventil**
**Integration und Automatisierung** Nein Nein Ja ****Rauschfrei**** Nein Ja Ja ****Preis**** Niedrig Mittel Mittel bis hoch **Kompatibilität mit**
**Mikrofluidik-Anwendungen** Gering Mittel Hoch ****Typische Anwendungen**** Versorgung mit konstantem Druck:
Bebenventile, Halbleiter Zellkultur und grundlegende
Tröpfchen-Mikrofluidik Tröpfchenmikrofluidik, Zellkultur (OOAC),
fortgeschrittene Fluoreszenzmikroskopie, mikrofluidische Spektroskopie
*Tabelle 1: Vergleich von Druckreglern für mikrofluidische Anwendungen*
Die **Mikrofluidik-Technologie** wird in der **akademischen Forschung** für eine Vielzahl von Anwendungen in den Biowissenschaften, der Chemie und der Lebensmittelindustrie eingesetzt. Auch in der Industrie für Analysegeräte und Bioreaktoren wird sie **immer beliebter**, da sie eine neue Ebene der Analyse eröffnet und mehrere Vorteile bietet, darunter **zuverlässigere Ergebnisse** bei gleichzeitiger **Minimierung des Reagenzienverbrauchs**.
Die Mikrofluidik spielt eine wichtige Rolle bei Anwendungen, wie z.B. für die Zellbiologie, die präzise Perfusion und Organ-on-a-Chip-Studien, digitale PCR, Organoide oder die Tröpfenerzeugung für Doppelemulsion.
## Vorteile der Fluidkontrolle für die Industrie
In der Welt der Mikrofluidik ist die **Flusskontrolle für zuverlässige Ergebnisse unerlässlich**. Auf dem Markt sind verschiedene Technologien erhältlich, darunter **Spritzenpumpen, peristaltische Pumpen und Druckregler**.
Druckregler sind in der Mikrofluidik bevorzugte Technologien, da sie im Vergleich zu Spritzenpumpen eine höhere Leistung und Zuverlässigkeit bieten. Allerdings sind **nicht** alle auf dem Markt erhältlichen Druckregler **gleich**, und einige von ihnen sind **nicht für die Mikrofluidik geeignet.**
Jeder Gerätetyp verfügt über eine Reihe von Merkmalen und Fähigkeiten, die unterschiedlichen Budgetvorgaben und Forschungsanforderungen gerecht werden.
## Der passende Druckregler für die Mikrofluidik?
### Übersicht Druckregler von FLUIGENT
Wir haben 3 verschiedene Arten von Druckreglern identifiziert, die auf dem Markt erhältlich sind und aus denen die Benutzer wählen können. Die folgenden Vergleiche beziehen sich auf ihre Kosteneffizienz und Qualität.
- **Kostengünstige Druckregler** sind die einfachste und günstigste Option. Sie haben in der Regel eine geringere Leistung im Vergleich zu dem Standardmodell und hochwertigeren Optionen.
- **Standardmodell:** bieten ein ausgewogenes Verhältnis zwischen Preis und Leistung.
- **Premium-Druckregler** bieten ein Höchstmaß an Genauigkeit und Stabilität. Sie sind für Anwendungen konzipiert, bei denen Präzision und Zuverlässigkeit von größter Bedeutung sind. Die hier verwendeten Druckregler sind der Fluigent Flow EZ und der F-OEM.
Zunächst vergleichen wir die 3 Druckregler in Bezug auf ihre **Leistung** (Genauigkeit, Stabilität, Reaktionszeit), ihre **Benutzerfreundlichkeit** und die **Integrationsmöglichkeiten**. Abschließend diskutieren wir die möglichen Anwendungen für jedes Gerät.
### Auswahl eines Druckreglers anhand der Leistung
Bei der Auswahl eines Druckreglers vergleicht man die technischen Spezifikationen. Es gibt mehrere wichtige Parameter, die zu berücksichtigen sind, wie z. B. die **Produktgenauigkeit**, **die Reproduzierbarkeit des Experiments oder die Reaktionszeit des Gerätes.**
Einige Hersteller geben Informationen basierend auf dem Sensor oder Ventil an, aus dem der Druckregler besteht, während andere die Daten auf der Grundlage von Praxistests bereitstellen.
Neben den technischen Daten ist für die allgemeine Leistung eines Druckreglers auch sein Regelungsalgorithmus entscheidend. Einfache Druckregler bieten nur eine analoge Kommunikation auf der Grundlage von Spannungen. Während einige PID-Regler die Möglichkeit bieten, Live-Feedback-Schleifen zu geben und den Druck auf der Grundlage des Drucksensor-Feedbacks anzupassen. Dies wirkt sich letztlich auf die Druckstabilität, die Genauigkeit, die Reaktionszeit und die Druckübergänge aus.
Hier vergleichen wir kostengünstige, Standardmodelle und hochwertige mikrofluidische Druckregler hinsichtlich ihrer Genauigkeit, Ansprechzeit und Druckveränderungen im Bereich von 0-1 bar.
### Wie genau und stabil ist Ihr Druckregler?
Die **Genauigkeit** ist ein entscheidender Faktor bei der Auswahl eines Druckreglers. Ein Druckregler mit **hoher Genauigkeit gewährleistet, dass der gewünschte Drucksollwert erreicht wird**. Darüber hinaus ist die **Druckstabilität** ein entscheidender Faktor bei der Auswahl eines Druckreglers, da viele Anwendungen auf einen stabilen Fluss angewiesen sind.
Wir führen eine **Genauigkeits**– und **Stabilitätsanalyse** durch, indem wir einen Druck von 750 mbar einstellen. Es wird mit einem externen kalibrierten Drucksensor gemessen und der eingestellte Druck von 750 mbar mehr als 10 Stunden stabil gehalten.
Auf diese Weise können wir feststellen, wie sich die Geräte unter kontinuierlicher Inbetriebnahme verhalten, um mögiche Drift- oder Stabilitätsprobleme zu erkennen, die erst bei längerem Betrieb sichtbar werden.
**Abbildung 1: Vergleich von Genauigkeit und Stabilität bei Verwendung von kostengünstigen, mittleren und hochwertigen Druckreglern**
Abbildung 1 zeigt die **Druckgenauigkeit und -stabilität** für die kostengünstigen, Standardmodelle und hochwertigen Druckregler. Betrachtet man den Mittelwert, so kann man feststellen, dass sowohl die kostengünstigen als auch die Standardmodelle im Vergleich zum Zielwert von 750 mbar eine Abweichung von mehr als 2 mbar aufweisen. Dies hängt wahrscheinlich damit zusammen, dass beide Produkte keine Möglichkeit zur Live-Kalibrierung haben, was zu einer Verschiebung gegenüber dem Zielwert führt und letztlich Rauschen erzeugt (siehe Abbildung 2).
Abbildung 2 Inhärentes Rauschen eines Mitteldruckreglers ohne verfügbare Kalibrierung
## Mit Premium-System: Verbesserte Stabilität und Genauigkeit auf lange Sicht
Mit dem Premium-Druckregler liegt der Durchschnittswert bei **749,81 mbar**, +/- 0,082 mbar. Der Premium-Druckregler ist **das genaueste Gerä**t mit einer Abweichung von weniger als 0,2 mbar gegenüber dem Sollwert und damit das leistungsfähigste Produkt in Bezug auf die Genauigkeit.
Ein weiterer Parameter, den wir hier analysieren können, ist die Stabilität. Wir stellen fest, dass mit dem kostengünstigen System zu Beginn des Experiments **750 mba**r erreicht werden, aber in weniger als einer Stunde können wir eine Verschiebung des angelegten Drucks beobachten. Nach zusätzlichen 30 min werden 749 mbar gemessen. Nach mehreren Stunden sind es 748 mbar. Mit dem Standardmodell wird ein ähnlicher Druckabfall, allerdings in geringerem Ausmaß (747,5 bis 747 mbar) beobachtet.
Bei Verwendung des Premium-Druckreglers bleibt der Druck von ca. 749,8 mbar über 8 Stunden lang stabil, ohne dass es zu Abweichungen kommt. Darüber hinaus beobachten wir eine verbesserte Stabilität und Genauigkeit auf lange Sicht, da der Druck konstant und mit lobenswerter Stabilität innerhalb des erforderlichen Druckbereichs gehalten wird.
### Reaktionszeit: Wie schnell wollen Sie den Druck ändern?
Die Reaktionszeit ist ein weiterer wichtiger Faktor, der bei der Auswahl eines Druckreglers zu berücksichtigen ist. Ein Druckregler mit guter Leistung ist in der Lage, **schnell auf Druckänderungen zu reagieren und die Stabilität zu wahren.**
Die Reaktionszeit eines Druckreglers ist ein kritischer Faktor in der Mikrofluidik, da die Prozesse in diesen Systemen präzise und oft heikel sind. Ein Druckregler mit einer **schnellen** und **genauen** Reaktionszeit **stellt sicher, dass sich das System bei Änderungen der Sollwerte oder externen Bedingungen schnell anpassen** und den gewünschten Druck mit minimalen Überschreitungen oder Schwingungen aufrechterhalten kann. Dies ist für die **Aufrechterhaltung der Integrität von Experimenten** oder Prozessen von entscheidender Bedeutung, da Verzögerungen oder Ungenauigkeiten bei der Druckanpassung zu beeinträchtigten Daten, unwirksamer Flüssigkeitssteuerung und möglicherweise zur Beschädigung empfindlicher mikrofluidischer Komponenten führen können.
Wir führen hier **2 Reaktionszeittests** durch: Druckanstieg (400 mbar -> 500 mbar) und Druckabfall (500 mbar -> 400 mbar).
Wir definieren die Ansprechzeit als die Zeit, die benötigt wird, um 98 % des Zielwerts zu erreichen und innerhalb einer Toleranz von 2 % des Zielwerts zu bleiben. *Beachten Sie, dass wir diesen Test nicht mit dem kostengünstigen Druckregler durchführen können, da er nur über analoge E/A gesteuert wird und kein PID-System enthält.*
***Abbildung 3: Reaktionszeit mit Mitteldruckregler und Premium-Druckregler***
***Ansprechzeit***
***400 bis 500 mbar*** ***Ansprechzeit***
***500 bis 400 mbar*** *********Standardmodell-Controller********* *0.8 s**0.7 s**********Premium-Druckcontroller********* *0.8 s**0.1 s*
*Tabelle 2: Vergleich von Druckreglern für mikrofluidische Anwendungen*
## Schnellere Reaktionszeit mit dem Premium-Druckregler
Abbildung 3 zeigt die Druckbeaufschlagung und Druckentlastung mit dem Standardmodell und dem Premiumregler. Bei Verwendung des **Standardmodells** beträgt die Zeit bis zum Erreichen von 98 % des Zielwerts 0,8 Sekunden, bei Verwendung des **Premium-Druckreglers** 0,8 Sekunden. Bei der Druckentlastung beträgt die Zeit bis zum Erreichen von 98 % des Zielwerts **0,7 Sekunden,** bei Verwendung des **Premium-Druckreglers** 0,1 Sekunden.
Dies zeigt, dass das Standardmodell und der Premium-Druckregler eine ähnliche Reaktionszeit bei der Druckbeaufschlagung für einen Übergang bei 100 mbar haben, während die Druckentlastung mit dem Premium-Druckregler etwa 10 Mal schneller erfolgt.
Darüber hinaus sind beim Standardmodell nach Erreichen einer stabilen Phase geringfügige Druckschwankungen zu beobachten, die ebenfalls auf die Leistung des Regelalgorithmus zurückzuführen sind.
Wenn ein Fluidikprotokoll gestoppt werden muss, hängt die Druckentlastungszeit außerdem vom verwendeten Druckregler ab. Abbildung 4 zeigt die Druckentlastungszeit von 500 mbar auf 400 mbar bei Verwendung des mittleren und des hohen Druckreglers. Es ist zu erkennen, dass das Standardmodell 0,7 s und der Premium-Druckregler 0,1 s benötigt.
****Abbildung 4: Reaktionszeit bei Verwendung eines Standardmodells und eines Premium-Druckreglers****
Die Druckentlastungszeit hat einen großen Einfluss auf mikrofluidische Protokolle, da während der Druckentlastungszeit weiterhin Flüssigkeiten eingespritzt werden, obwohl das Experiment beendet ist. Wertvolle Flüssigkeiten, die während der Druckentlastungszeit injiziert werden, werden verschwendet, was sich letztlich auf die Kosten des Experiments auswirkt. Je nach verwendetem System und dem damit verbundenen Strömungswiderstand kann die Druckentlastungszeit mehr als eine Zehntelsekunde betragen!
### Je stabiler, desto besser: Produktalgorithmus und PID beeinflussen letztendlich die Leistung
Wie in den obigen Abschnitten erwähnt, sind die Produktspezifikationen nicht alles. PID und Algorithmen wirken sich ebenfalls auf die Leistung aus. Abbildung 5 zeigt die Druckkrümmung während eines Übergangs von einem höheren Druck für den Mitteldruckregler. Beim Übergang auf 100 mbar ist ein gewisses Rütteln zu beobachten, das beim Premium-Druckregler nicht auftritt (Abbildung 5).
Abbildung 5 Vergleich der Druckentlastungszeit bei Verwendung des kostengünstigen und des hochwertigen Druckreglers
Bei unserer vergleichenden Analyse zwischen den Druckreglern stellten wir deutliche Leistungsunterschiede fest, insbesondere in Bezug auf die Genauigkeit und Stabilität. Beide kostengünstigeren Druckregler wiesen stärkere Schwankungen auf und benötigten eine längere Reaktionszeit. Außerdem stabilisierten sie sich im Vergleich zu ihrem Gegenstück in einem weniger präzisen Druckbereich.
Das **Premium-Produkt hingegen wies ein bemerkenswert gleichmäßigeres** und **stabileres** Übergangsprofil auf. Es erreicht effizienter und stabiler, die gewünschten Werte.
Diese überlegene Leistung bei der Aufrechterhaltung einer stabilen Druckkontrolle unter verschiedenen Bedingungen unterstreicht die fortschrittliche Technik und das Design des Premiumprodukts.
Diese Eigenschaften sind besonders wichtig bei Mikrofluidik-Anwendungen, bei denen eine exakte Druckkontrolle entscheidend für die Integrität und Genauigkeit der Ergebnisse ist.
Abbildung 6 Vergleich der Druckübergänge zwischen einem Standardmodell und einem Premium Druck Controller
### Mikrofluidik erfordert Fachwissen für die Integration
#### Zeit bis zur Markteinführung: Ist Ihr Druckregler einsatzbereit und leicht zu integrieren?
Bei einfachen Druckreglern sind in der Regel keine gebrauchsfertige Software und High-Level-Funktionen vorhanden. Für die preisgünstigen und Standardmodelle war eine Umwandlung von analogen zu digitalen Daten notwendig, um eine ordnungsgemäße Datenerfassung und -auswertung zu ermöglichen.
Dieser zusätzliche Schritt muss im Hinblick auf die interne Entwicklung und die Markteinführungszeit berücksichtigt werden. Im Folgenden wird ein Vergleich der mikrofluidischen Druckregler auf der Grundlage ihrer Einsatzfähigkeit vorgestellt:
- **Kostengünstiger Druckregler:** Es muss ein zusätzliches DAQ-Gerät für die Steuerung des Systems entwickelt werden. Die Tatsache, dass kein Analog-Digital-Wandler erforderlich ist, deutet auf ein fortschrittlicheres und integriertes Design hin, das sich besser an moderne digitale Schnittstellen und Standards anpassen lässt.
- **Standardmodell Druckregler:** Obwohl kein zusätzliches Messgerät erforderlich ist (die gesamte interne Elektronik ist in das Gerät integriert), muss eine kundenspezifische Software-Schnittstelle entwickelt werden, um die Messungen zu starten.
- **Premium-Druckregler**: Gebrauchsfertige Software mit fortschrittlichem SDK, das in verschiedenen Sprachen (Python, C++, C#) verfügbar ist.
## Die mikrofluidische Umgebung: Druckregler für Flusskontrolle, Ventilmanagement und Automatisierung
### Was ist der Unterschied zwischen Flussregelung und Druckregelung?
Viele Prozesse in der Mikrofluidik erfordern eine präzise Überwachung und Regelung der Flussraten sowie die **Integration von Ventilen zur Automatisierung komplexer Arbeitsabläufe**, um **Wiederholbarkeit** und **Zuverlässigkeit** zu gewährleisten.
Eine effiziente Überwachung der Flussrate ermöglicht präzise Volumeninjektionen, während die Automatisierung von Ventilen für Aufgaben wie die Probenvorbereitung, das Multiplexing oder Reinigungsprozesse unerlässlich ist.
In unserem Artikel erfahren Sie mehr über die Herausforderungen der Automatisierung von Fluidikventilen und die Vorteile unserer F-OEM-Flusssteuerungsplattform.
Im Gegensatz zu herkömmlichen Druckreglern **erfordert** die **Integration** und **Steuerung** von mikrofluidischen Flusssensoren und -ventilen fortschrittliche Regelungsfähigkeiten, die Fachwissen in den Bereichen Elektronik, Mechanik und Mikrofluidik erfordern.
Die Synchronisierung zwischen allen mikrofluidischen Komponenten ist entscheidend für eine reibungslose Automatisierung. Bei klassischen Druckreglern muss die Integration vom Mikrofluidik-Experten vorgenommen werden, was zu einem potenziell **kostspieligen**, **zeitaufwändigen** und **ressourcenabhängigen Prozess** führt. Dies kann sich auf die Markteinführungszeit auswirken und die Zuverlässigkeit des endgültigen Systems beeinträchtigen.
Unser erstklassiger mikrofluidischer Druckregler zeichnet sich durch eine nahtlose Schnittstelle zu hauseigenen mikrofluidischen Flusssensoren und Ventilen aus. Die Steuerung dieser Komponenten erfordert **keine zusätzliche Entwicklung durch spezielle Software und SDK** und bietet eine optimierte Lösung, die die Effizienz und Zuverlässigkeit erhöht, ohne die Markteinführungszeit zu beeinträchtigen.
- **Kostengünstiger Druckregler:** Entwicklung erforderlich
- **Standardmodell:** Entwicklung erforderlich
- **Hochwertiger Druckregler:** Sofort einsatzbereit mit Fluigent-Flusssensoren und -Ventilen + Software
## Was sind die typischen Anwendungen, die mit den oben genannten Druckreglern durchgeführt werden können?
Wie oben dargestellt, weist jeder Druckregler eine unterschiedliche Leistung auf, die je nach Parameter von schlecht/mittel bis hervorragend reicht. Die **Regelung von mikrofluidischen Flüssen** geht mit einigen **Herausforderungen und umfasst viele verschiedene Anwendungen.** Die folgende Übersicht befasst sich mit ein paar dieser Anwendungen.
- **Kostengünstiger Druckregler:** Der kostengünstige Druckregler hat eine durchschnittliche bis schlechte Leistung in Bezug auf Genauigkeit oder Stabilität. Außerdem ist keine PID-Regelung verfügbar. Dadurch ist das Produkt auf Anwendungen beschränkt, bei denen der Druck nicht sehr stabil sein braucht. Es eignet sich für Analysegeräte mit geringer Präzision und Flussraten von mehr als hundert Millilitern pro Minute. Typische Anwendungen sind Gaschromatographie und Halbleiterprozesse. In der Mikrofluidik kann er für die Beaufschlagung von Druck zum Öffnen/Schließen von Ventilen verwendet werden, wie z.B. quake valve processes.
- **Standardmodell:** Das Standardmodell hat eine durchschnittliche bis gute Leistung in Bezug auf Genauigkeit und Stabilität. Es steht ein einfacher PID-Regler zur Verfügung, der für weniger anspruchsvolle mikrofluidische Anwendungen nützlich sein kann. Er kann für die mikrofluidische Zellperfusion und -kultur sowie in einigen Fällen der Tröpfchenmikrofluidik nützlich sein, wo die Produktion stabil und ohne häufige Änderungen der Flussrate bleiben sollte. Er ist jedoch auf komplexe mikrofluidische Protokolle beschränkt oder auf Prozesse, die einen minimalen Einsatz von Probenreagenzien erfordern.
- **Premium Druckregler:** Der Premium-Druckcontroller von Fluigent wurde entwickelt, um alle Anforderungen von Mikrofluidik-Anwendungen zu erfüllen. Folglich ist die allgemeine Leistung hervorragend, einschließlich ausgezeichneter Genauigkeit, Stabilität und Reaktionszeit. Sein patentierter Regelalgorithmus ermöglicht die Einstellung des Drucks während jedes mikrofluidischen Protokolls, und die Integration von Flusssensor und Ventil ist standardmäßig implementiert, so dass komplexe mikrofluidische Protokolle durchgeführt werden können. Zu den Anwendungen gehören unter anderem die Tröpfchenmikrofluidik für digitale PCR- und Verkapselungsanwendungen, die Zellbiologie für Organ-on-a-Chip und Zellkulturen, die Zellsortierung und Flusszytometrie sowie die fortschrittliche Fluoreszenzmikroskopie, bei der alle Multiplexing-Protokolle automatisiert werden müssen, während die bisherigen Probenreagenzien eingespart werden.
---
### [5 Gründe für die Wahl von OEM-Druckreglern anstelle von OEM-Spritzenpumpen für mikrofluidische Anwendungen](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 1. Drucksteuerung für unübertroffene Leistung
Eine **stabile und präzise Durchflussrate** mit einer schnellen **Einschwingzeit** ist häufig eine Voraussetzung für mikrofluidische und millifluidische Anwendungen wie Tröpfchenmikrofluidik, Wirkstoffscreening, Zellanalyse oder dynamische Zellkultur für Zellbiologie und Mikroskopie.
### **Druckkontrolle für verbesserte Stabilität und Einschwingzeit**
Eine **stabile und präzise Durchflussrate** mit einer schnellen **Einschwingzeit** ist häufig eine Voraussetzung für mikrofluidische und millifluidische Anwendungen wie Tröpfchenmikrofluidik, Wirkstoffscreening, Zellanalyse oder dynamische Zellkultur für Zellbiologie und Mikroskopie.
In einem System, das mikrofluidische Tröpfchen erzeugt, ist in der Regel eine schnelle Einschwingzeit (definiert als die Zeit, die das Ausgangssignal benötigt, um einen bestimmten Prozentsatz – z. B. 95 % – einer momentanen Druckänderung zu erreichen) erforderlich, um die angestrebte Durchflussrate und die damit verbundene erforderliche Tröpfchengröße zu erreichen. Dadurch kann die Übergangsphase, in der die erzeugten Tröpfchen (die teure Reagenzien oder Zellen enthalten können) nicht verwendet werden können, minimiert werden. Auf diese Weise werden der Abfall und die Kosten des mikrofluidischen Protokolls reduziert. Eine stabile Durchflussrate wiederum gewährleistet eine homogene Tröpfchengröße und damit die langfristige Zuverlässigkeit Ihres Protokolls.
#### A. Einschwingzeit: Wie hoch ist die tatsächliche Durchflussmenge in Ihrem System?real flow rate in your system?
***OEM-Spritzenpumpe und Einschwingzeit***
Industrielle Spritzenpumpen bestehen aus einer einfachen linearen Bewegungsquelle, die von einem Schrittmotor angetrieben wird, der die Geschwindigkeit steuert, mit der der Kolben angetrieben wird. Die Durchflussmenge ergibt sich direkt aus der Kolbengeschwindigkeit und dem Kolbenquerschnitt. Die Einschwingzeit hängt nicht nur von der Mechanik der Spritzenpumpe ab, sondern auch vom Strömungswiderstand des mikrofluidischen Systems. Bei der Einführung oder Änderung des geordneten Durchflusses erhöht sich der Innendruck im Fluidiksystem und verformt es, anstatt die Flüssigkeit zu fördern.
Je nach Strömungswiderstand und Elastizität des Systems variiert die Einschwingzeit zwischen einer Hundertstel Millisekunde und mehreren Minuten. Bei der Implementierung einer Durchflussrate auf der Spritzenpumpe für industrielle Anwendungen wird der gewünschte Wert der Durchflussrate angezeigt, doch es gibt weder Informationen über die tatsächliche Durchflussrate noch über die erforderliche Zeit, um diese zu erreichen. **Das Fehlen von Informationen über die tatsächliche Flussrate des mikrofluidischen Geräts ist eine der Hauptursachen für das Scheitern von Experimenten und Protokollen.**
*****Schnellste Reaktionszeit mit OEM-Druckregler*****
Druckregler ermöglichen die Druckbeaufschlagung des Behälters oder Tanks, der Ihre Flüssigkeiten enthält. Bei der Verwendung eines Druckreglers wird der Druck fast sofort auf das Reservoir ausgeübt. Die in Fluigent-Instrumenten verwendeten Ventile haben in der Regel eine **Reaktionszeit von weniger als 30 Millisekunden**, was unter den in Spritzenpumpen verwendeten Motoren liegt. Reaktive Systeme wie das F-OEM und seine FASTAB-Technologie haben schnelle Einschwingzeiten. Das folgende Diagramm zeigt die Reaktionszeiten eines Fluigent F-OEM-Druckreglers mit einer Standard-Spritzenpumpe. Der angestrebte Druck wird
Der Solldruck wird in den meisten Fluidiksystemen in Sekundenschnelle erreicht (hängt hauptsächlich von der Druckquelle und der damit verbundenen Gasdurchflussrate sowie von den zu beaufschlagenden Pneumatikvolumina ab).
**Abbildung 1: Reaktionszeit zwischen druckbasierten Durchflussreglern**
#### B. Unerreichte Stabilität durch fein abgestimmten Druck
Die Flussstabilität einer Spritzenpumpe ergibt sich aus dem minimalen mechanischen Schritt, den der Motor macht. Da der Schritt des Kolbens mit dem injizierten Volumen korreliert ist, führt diese minimale Bewegung zu einem minimalen injizierten Volumen. Der Schrittmotor erzeugt bei niedrigen Flussraten Impulse oder Schwingungen, die mit der Technologie zusammenhängen und nicht auf externe Parameter zurückzuführen sind. Folglich können die meisten Spritzenpumpen auf dem Markt eine Stabilität von weniger als 0,35 % nicht erreichen, was bereits für High-End-Spritzenpumpen gilt. Da Spritzenkörper geringere Durchmesser aufweisen, sind geringere Volumina möglich. Das hat eine Auswirkung auf die erreichbaren Flussraten.
Wenn ein Reservoir oder ein Tank mit Hilfe eines Druckreglers unter Druck gesetzt wird, wird die Probe gleichmäßig in Ihr mikrofluidisches System injiziert. Bei dieser Technologie kommen in der Regel Magnetventile zum Einsatz, die eine sehr feine Einstellung des Drucks ermöglichen. Da es keine mechanischen Teile gibt, die mit den Flüssigkeiten in Berührung kommen, können Druckregler pulslose Flüsse erzeugen, die selbst mit der genauesten Spritzenpumpe nicht erreicht werden können. Mit den Druckreglern von Fluigent wird eine Druckstabilität von < 0,1 % CV erreicht. Dies ermöglicht ein neues Maß an Stabilität, das für neue Anwendungen erforderlich ist.
**Abbildung 2: Druckstabilität druckbasierter Durchflussregler**
#### C. Höhere Genauigkeit des Flüssigkeitsdurchflusses und bessere Regelungsmöglichkeiten mit einem Durchflusssensor: druckgesteuerte Durchflussregelung
*****Inline-Durchflusssensoren für schnelle, genaue Durchflussüberwachung und -regelung*****
Möchte man die Durchflussmenge direkt messen, kann ein Flüssigkeitsdurchflusssensor in das System eingebaut werden. Durchflusssensoren sind außerdem nützlich, um das ordnungsgemäße Funktionieren eines Fluidikprotokolls zu gewährleisten, indem sie die **Überwachung** des **Durchflusses/Volumens** oder die **Erkennung** und **Vermeidung** von **Protokollfehlern** ermöglichen. Durchflusssensoren ergänzen Druckregler, da sie es ermöglichen, ein System mit “**Rückkopplungsschleife**” zu entwickeln, das die Durchflussmenge über den Druck regelt, wenn ein Algorithmus implementiert ist. Fluigent bietet dank seines patentierten “selbstlernenden” Algorithmus eine **druckbasierte Durchflussregelung**, die es ermöglicht, die Durchflussrate während eines laufenden Experiments anzupassen, um das abgegebene Probenvolumen und/oder die Durchflussrate der Probe zu steuern. Die unten stehende Grafik vergleicht die Stabilität der Flussrate zwischen der druckbasierten Flusskontrolle von Fluigent und einer Standard-OEM-Spritzenpumpe. Mit unserem Regelungsalgorithmus in Verbindung mit einem Durchflusssensor wird eine Stabilität der Durchflussrate von < 5 % erreicht, während mit einer Spritzenpumpe eine Stabilität von ~ 10 % beobachtet wird.
**Abbildung 3: Vergleich zwischen einer OEM-Spritzenpumpe (grau) & einem druckbasierten Durchflussregler (blau)**
*******Benötigen Sie eine leistungsstarke druckgesteuerte Durchflussregelung, ohne einen Durchflusssensor in der Fluidikleitung zu haben?*******
Mit der Zunahme biologischer Anwendungen, die Mikrofluidik nutzen, steigt der Bedarf an einer **vollständig sterilen Einweg-Umgebung** in der Fluidikleitung stark an. **Fluigent ist das einzige Unternehmen, das einen nicht-invasiven Durchflusssensor speziell für fluidische Anwendungen anbietet.**
Die von Fluigent angebotene OEM-Standardlösung für die druckbasierte Durchflussregelung, bestehend aus einem **hochpräzisen Druckregler** (Fluigent PX oder F-OEM) und einem nicht-invasiven Durchflusssensor, ermöglicht eine **hervorragende Durchflussregelung ohne fluidische Pfadelemente oder fluidische Kalibrierung**. Der NIFS ermöglicht eine **berührungslose Live-Durchflussüberwachung und -regelung.**
Mit diesem einzigartigen System ist Fluigent anderen Anbietern von mikrofluidischen, druckgesteuerten Durchflusssteuerungen sowie Anbietern von industriellen Spritzenpumpen einen Schritt voraus.
***Abbildung 4: Spritzenpumpensystem vs. druckbasiertes Durchflussregelungssystem von Fluigent***
****Fluigent Druckregler**** ****OEM-Spritzenpumpe**** ****Genauigkeit**** < 0,1% CV Skalenendwert (FS)~ 1%**Druckauflösung**
**(Minimale Druckschritte)** 0.03% FS K.A. **Ansprechzeit** Druckregler: < 30 ms K.A. **Einschwingzeit** Druck: < 2 s
Durchflussmenge: < 5 s Von einigen Sekunden bis zu Minuten, je nach Fluidiksystem **Ausgangsdruckbereich****Positiver Bereich:** 0 bis 25 mbar, 0 bis 69 mbar, 0 bis 345 mbar, 0 bis 1000 mbar, 0 bis 2000 mbar, 0 bis 7000 mbar
**Negativer Bereich**: 0 bis -25 mbar, 0 bis -69 mbar, 0 bis -345 mbar, 0 bis -800 mbar
**Push-Pull**: -800 bis +1000 mbar K.A. **Bereich der Flüssigkeitsdurchflussrate** 0 bis 10 mL/min > 200 mL/min **Injektionsvolumen** Bis zu 1 L < 140 mL (begrenzt durch die maximale Spritzengröße) **Überwachung und Regulierung der Durchflussrate** Verwendung eines Durchflusssensors: < 5% m.V. Keine Live-Überwachung. **Kompatibilität mit sterilen Umgebungen / Kontaminationsrisiken** Geeignet
Sterile Reservoirs und keine mechanischen Teile, die mit den Flüssigkeiten in Berührung kommen
Kontrolle der Durchflussrate ohne System in der Fluidikleitung mit dem NIFS möglich Möglich
Einwegspritzen aus Kunststoff OK, aber verminderte Leistung
Glasspritzen: Sterilisations-/Reinigungsschritt für jedes Experiment erforderlich **Kompatibilität mit Langzeitprotokollen** Geeignet
Stabile Druckversorgung Begrenzt durch das Spritzenreservoir
Anfällig für Instabilität im Laufe der Zeit, abhängig von der verwendeten Spritzenpumpe und Spritze ****Wartung**** Nicht erforderlich Spritzenausrichtung, Wartung der Dichtungen ## 2. Die Stabilität muss bei größeren Injektionsmengen nicht mehr beeinträchtigt werden. Gewinnen Sie Zeit bei der Implementierung und beim Nachfüllen.
Wie oben erläutert, ist die Stabilität der Flussrate umso geringer, je größer das Spritzenvolumen (genauer gesagt, der Abschnitt) ist. Folglich müssen die Benutzer von Spritzenpumpen zwischen Stabilität und Mindestvolumen für die Injektion wählen, was je nach Zielanwendung nicht immer möglich ist. Darüber hinaus überschreiten die meisten Spritzenpumpen für mikrofluidische industrielle Anwendungen ein Volumen von 60 ml nicht, was für Anwendungen, die Pufferlösungen benötigen, eine erhebliche Einschränkung darstellen kann.
Bei der Verwendung von Druckreglern ist es möglich, größere Reservoirs zu verwenden. Mit den Drucksystemen von Fluigent können Flaschen mit einem Volumen von bis zu 1 l verwendet werden, ohne dass die ausgezeichnete Flussstabilität, die durch den Druck gewährleistet wird, beeinträchtigt wird. Befüllungs- und Nachfüllvorgänge sind bei druckbasierten Systemen unkompliziert.
## 3. Eine kosteneffiziente Lösung für Ihr mikrofluidisches System
Auf den ersten Blick kann ein druckgesteuertes Durchflusskontrollsystem kostspieliger sein als ein Spritzenpumpensystem, da die zusätzliche Druckquelle und die Durchflusssensoren (falls erforderlich) die Kosten für das Gesamtsystem in die Höhe treiben. Einige Vorteile von Druckreglern und die kontinuierliche Verbesserung der Technologie wirken sich jedoch letztlich auf die Endkosten Ihres Systems aus, darunter:
- **Ein Kanal für mehrere Reservoirs**
Mit Hilfe eines Druckreglers können mehrere Reservoirs mit Druck beaufschlagt werden, was bei Spritzenpumpen weniger praktikabel ist, da die Durchflussraten nicht gleichmäßig verteilt sind.
- **Bessere Reaktionszeit bedeutet weniger Reagenzienverbrauch und Abfall**
Wie oben erläutert, können während der Übergangsphase, in der die Flussraten nicht stabil sind, die Daten nicht ausgewertet werden, und die in dieser Phase verwendeten Reagenzien gehen verloren. Die Minimierung dieser Übergangsphase ermöglicht eine Optimierung des Reagenzienverbrauchs und damit eine Reduzierung der Versuchskosten.
- **Druckquelle und Steuerung in einem, um die Gesamtkosten zu senken**
Die neueste von Fluigent entwickelte Technologie, eine kompakte All-In-One-Mikrofluidik-Mikropumpe, bietet eine integrierte Druckversorgung und -steuerung (Über- und Unterdruck) in einem leichten und kompakten Format (L\*l\*H = 7\*5\*4 cm). Eine kosteneffiziente Technologie mit einem einzigartigen Maß an Kompaktheit.
## 4. Verringerung der Gefahren aufgrund von Reinigungsproblemen und Kontamination
Die Verwendung einer hochpräzisen Spritzenpumpe erfordert Einwegspritzen aus Glas, Stahl oder Keramik, da die Verformbarkeit von Kunststoffspritzen die Stabilität beeinträchtigt. Diese Einwegspritzen werden im Allgemeinen nicht sterilisiert geliefert. Dies stellt eine Einschränkung für viele biologische Anwendungen dar, bei denen Sterilität auf dem Flüssigkeitsweg zwingend erforderlich ist. Darüber hinaus ist bei der Verwendung von Einwegspritzen eine Reinigung erforderlich, die nicht nur mühsam ist, sondern auch ein zusätzliches Kontaminationsrisiko darstellt, das zu Versuchsfehlern führen kann.
Bei der Verwendung von Druckreglern kommen keine mechanischen Teile mit der Flüssigkeit in Berührung. Es können normale Einwegschläuche oder -behälter verwendet werden, die bei Bedarf sterilisiert werden können. Das Kontaminationsrisiko wird also bei der Verwendung eines Druckreglers im Vergleich zu einer OEM-Spritzenpumpe verringert.
## 5. Geringerer Wartungsaufwand mit Druckcontrollern
Bei der Entwicklung eines mikrofluidischen Systems mit Komponenten für das Liquid Handling ist es wichtig, den Lebenszyklus aller Teile sowie die erforderliche Wartung zu berücksichtigen, um die Lebensdauer Ihres Systems zu verlängern. Bei der Verwendung von Spritzenpumpen sind zeitaufwändige Wartungsschritte erforderlich, um Leistungseinbußen oder Protokollausfälle zu vermeiden:
- Ausrichtungsschritte: Eine falsche Spritzenausrichtung und -installation würde sowohl die Präzision als auch die Genauigkeit beeinträchtigen. Außerdem können dadurch die Spritzendichtungen aufgrund übermäßiger Installationskräfte beschädigt werden. Dies muss nach jedem Spritzenwechsel durchgeführt werden.
- Wartung der Dichtungen: Wenn Pumpendichtungen im Laufe der Zeit nicht ordnungsgemäß gewartet werden, kann es zu Leckagen kommen, die zu einer weniger genauen Dosierung führen. Kolbendichtungen enthalten oft einen dünnen Film aus Silikonöl, der sich im Laufe der Zeit durch den Gebrauch und den Kontakt mit Flüssigkeiten abnutzt. Eine Nachschmierung ist regelmäßig erforderlich, um Leistungsprobleme oder Schäden zu vermeiden.
Bei der Verwendung von Druckreglern ist der Wartungsaufwand drastisch reduziert, da sie nicht mit Flüssigkeiten in Berührung kommen. Die Sicherstellung einer sauberen Druckquelle reicht in der Regel aus, damit Ihr Druckregler mehrere Jahre lang ordnungsgemäß funktioniert. Im Gegensatz zu Spritzenpumpen für industrielle Anwendungen sind vor dem Start eines Protokolls keine Ausrichtungs- oder Kalibrierungsschritte erforderlich. Druckregler gewährleisten eine lange Lebensdauer des Systems und reduzieren den Zeitaufwand für den Fluigent-Support.
Als Experte und Marktführer im Bereich der präzisen Flüssigkeitssteuerung und -automatisierung bietet Fluigent innovative OEM-Instrumente und kundenspezifische Dienstleistungen für Hersteller aus den Bereichen Life Sciences und Diagnostik.
---
### [团队介绍 ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/team/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 认识我们的团队
我们的团队成员来自全球各地，背景多元，每天面对挑战时都充满激情。Fluigent汇聚了来自不同文化、年龄、性别和学术背景的人才，形成了一个多元化的大家庭，由两位卓越女性领导。我们邀请您深入了解那些给我们的产品注入灵魂的人们的故事。在Fluigent，我们不断书写成功故事，众多实习生和学徒在合同结束后成功转为正式员工。通过与世界各地的博士生合作，我们Fluigent的技术始终站在微流控领域的最前沿。
### 我们在中国的合作伙伴
**[Micro-blox Technologies](http://www.microblox.cn/ "Micro-blox Technologies") (Beijing) Co., Ltd (Micro-blox)**
### 微信公众号
微纳立方科技（北京）有限公司专注于为客户提供全面的微流控实验（Lab-on-a-chip）解决方案。我们致力于把微流控技术转化为高效的试验系统和准确的数据，进而将这些系统转化为创新产品，广泛应用于实验室、企业、医院乃至家庭环境中。通过引入模块化设计理念，我们将微流控系统细分为进样、操控、芯片和分析四大模块，别称为立方块（Blox），这些模块进一步细化为微立方块（Micro-blox）和纳立方块（Nano-blox），借此实现了系统的简化、小型化和成本效益化。
我们团队由在微流控领域拥有超过十年工作和研发经验的资深成员组成，在微流控芯片设计与加工、化学合成、石油开采、细胞与器官培养、以及数字PCR应用等方面积累了深厚的理论和实践经验。
微纳立方还建立了一套完善的微流控实验室设施（Microblox\_Lab），配备了先进的微流控综合实验台、单细胞操控及给药系统、细胞培养系统和微滴制备系统等多种实验平台。这些设施不仅支持我们的技术团队进行创新产品的研发，也为众多研究机构提供了执行各种微流控实验的能力。
## Micro-blox 团队
---
### [Team](https://www.fluigent.com/company/team/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Entdecken Sie das Team
Unsere Teammitglieder kommen aus der ganzen Welt, haben unterschiedliche Hintergründe und sind leidenschaftlich daran interessiert, jeden Tag spannende Herausforderungen zu lösen. Fluigent ist ein Mosaik aus Kulturen, Altersgruppen, Geschlechtern und akademischen Hintergründen. Unser Vorstand ist zu 100% weiblich und wird von zwei Frauen geleitet! Entdecken Sie die spannenden Geschichten der Menschen hinter unseren Produkten. Fluigent hat auch viele Erfolgsgeschichten innerhalb des Unternehmens, da mehrere Praktikanten und Auszubildende am Ende ihrer befristeten Verträge eingestellt wurden. Fluigent arbeitet auch mit Doktoranden aus der ganzen Welt zusammen, was unsere Technologien an der Spitze der Mikrofluidikindustrie hält.
## Unternehmensnachrichten
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
Mehr sehen
---
### [팀](https://www.fluigent.com/company/team/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
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**Our Partner in Korea** – **SCINCO Co. Ltd.**
## 팀 소개
우리 팀 구성원들은 전 세계에서 온 사람들로, 각기 다른 배경을 가지고 있으며 매일 흥미로운 도전을 해결하려는 열정을 가지고 있습니다. Fluigent는 문화, 연령, 성별 및 학문적 배경이 모두 다른 다양한 모자이크입니다. 저희의 경영진은 100% 여성으로 구성되어 있으며 두 명의 여성이 이끌고 있습니다! 제품만큼 흥미로운 사람들의 이야기를 소개합니다. Fluigent는 인턴과 수습 직원들이 계약 종료 후 채용된 여러 성공 사례를 가지고 있습니다. 또한 Fluigent는 전 세계의 박사과정 학생들과 협력하며 미세 유체 분야에서 선도적인 기술 수준을 유지하고 있습니다.
[](https://scinco.com/default.asp)
[](https://scinco.com/default.asp)
## SCinentific INstrument COmpany
1990년 설립된 (주)신코는 국내에서는 당시로써 불모지나 다름없는 첨단 분석기기 제조 분야에 뛰어들어 이제는 국내 과학 발전에 일조하는 기업으로 자리매김하였습니다.
1994년 PDA UV-Vis Spectrophotometer 개발과 출시를 시작으로 Color Spectrophotometer, Fluorescence Spectrometer, Thermal Analyzer 그리고 최근에 출시한 Double Beam UV-Vis Spectrophotometer 등의 분석기기를 제공하고 있는 국내 최고의 분석기기 전문 기업입니다.
신코는 세계 유수의 분석기기 회사들의 제품과 이에 걸맞은 최상급의 서비스를 제공하고 있으며, 응용분야에 따라 5개의 사업부로 나누어 첨단 제품을 제공 및 응용 지원하고 있습니다.
**SID(Scinco Instrument Division)**
신코 기술로 제조한 분석기기 분야 UV-Vis, Fluorescence, Color, etc.
**AID(Analytical Instrument Division)**
분석과 관련된 다양한 분야 FT-IR, Raman, LC-MS, XRF, Residual Gas, Dissolution, etc.
**SED(Semiconductor Equipment Division)**
반도체 응용분야 Mask Aligner, Spin Coater, Wafer Bonder, etc.
**L&B (Life & Biotechnology)**
생명공학, 바이오 관련 분야 Microfluidics, Organ-on-a-Chip, Pipette, incubator, etc.
1995년 설립된 (주)신코 중앙연구소는 2005년 5월에 첨단 과학의 메카인 대덕연구단지로 확장 이전하여, 핵심기술 개발에 관한 끊임없는 연구와 투자를 통해 국내외 고객들에게 도움이 되는 분석기기 및 서비스를 제공함으로써 고객과 함께 성장해가고 있습니다.
해외시장 진출에 있어서는 미국, 중국과 대만에 현지 법인을 설립, 운영하며 탄탄한 기반을 확보하는데 성공하였고, 동남아, 인도, 유럽 등 전 세계 60여 개국에 신코 브랜드의 제품을 수출하는 등 세계 최고의 분석기기 전문 기업으로 성장하기 위한 글로벌 역량을 갖추고 있습니다.
앞으로도 신코는 세계 최고의 제품, 우수한 고객지원 그리고 우수한 인재육성 및 끊임없는 도전과 신기술 개발이라는 기업경영 이념 하에 고객의 소리에 귀 기울이며 세계 일류의 분석기기 업체로 다가서기 위해 항상 더 나은 모습으로 찾아뵐 것을 약속드립니다.
**Feel free to contact** SCINCO Co. Ltd.
\#627, BONGEUNSA-RO, GANGNAM-GU, SEOUL, KOREA
Tel : +82-2-2143-8200
Fax : +82-2-2143-8355
E-mail :
[Website](https://scinco.com/default.asp)
---
### [Team](https://www.fluigent.com/company/team/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Discover the team
Our team members come from all over the world, have different backgrounds, and are passionate about solving exciting challenges every day. Fluigent is a mosaic of cultures, ages, gender, and academic background. Our Managing board is 100% female with two women leading it! Discover the exciting stories of the people behind our products. Fluigent has also a lot of success stories within the company with several interns and apprentices hired at the end of their temporary contracts. Fluigent also collaborates with Ph.D. students from all around the world which keeps our technologies at the leading edge of the microfluidic industry.
## Company news
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company newsInsights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics July 16, 2024](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
[
Company newsNavigating Success: A Year in Review at Fluigent – Client Chronicles and Company HighlightsDecember 14, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/a-year-in-review-at-fluigent-2023/)
[
Company newsFluigent: Ambassador for ‘Made in Val-de-Marne’December 1, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-ambassador-for-made-in-val-de-marne/)
[
Company newsAlain’s Experience at MedicaNovember 21, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/medica-2023/)
[
Company newsWelcome Alain Crampon!October 13, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/welcome-alain-crampon/)
[
Company newsMeet Karolina Sobeczek, Fluigent Germany’s Business Development Manager for Eastern EuropeSeptember 28, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/karolina-sobeczek/)
[
Company newsElevating Collaboration and Inspiration: Unforgettable Team Building Event with Breathtaking Paris ViewsJune 27, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/team-building-2023/)
[
Company newsFrance Hamber interview about SLAS EUROPE 2023June 20, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-ceo-slas-europe-2023/)
[
Company newsLet us celebrate the 9th anniversary of FLUIGENT Germany together! May 17, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/9th-anniversary-fluigent-germany/)
[
Product newsDevelopment of an in-vitro eye model with the Flow EZMarch 31, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/in-vitro-eye-model/)
[
Company newsFluigent’s new organ-on-chip platform, OmiMarch 17, 2023](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-omi/)
[
Company newsMicrofluidics & Organ-On-Chips Panel Discussion 2022October 18, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/microfluidics-organ-on-chips-panel-discussion/)
[
Company newsGerman Website LaunchOctober 6, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/german-website-launch/)
[
Company newsJournées du Patrimoine, 2022May 21, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/journees-du-patrimoine-2022/)
[
Company newsFLUIGENT Germany celebrates 8 years!April 29, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-germany-celebrates-8-years/)
[
Company newsThought Leader: France HamberApril 19, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/thought-leader-france-hamber/)
[
Product newsFluigent product ARIA highlighted in last issue of Nature MethodsMarch 18, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-product-aria-highlighted-in-last-issue-of-nature-methods/)
[
Company newsOur CEO, one of the 20 Sup’Excellence laureatesMarch 9, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/our-ceo-one-of-the-20-supexcellence-laureates/)
[
Organ-On-ChipNew Application Notes : A human gut-on-chip modelMarch 4, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-application-notes-a-human-gut-on-chip-model/)
[
Product newsFluigent introduces you the F-OEM SeriesMarch 4, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-introduces-you-the-f-oem-series/)
[
Product newsFluigent product ARIA highlighted in last issue of Nature ProtocolsFebruary 16, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/aria-on-the-cover-of-nature-protocols/)
[
Company newsFluigent, a leader in the growing microfluidics market, is looking for passionate new collaboratorsFebruary 16, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-a-leader-in-the-growing-microfluidics-market-is-looking-for-passionate-new-collaborators/)
[
Product news2022 Research and Industrial product catalogJanuary 12, 2022](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/2022-research-and-industrial-product-catalog/)
[
Company newsIle-de-France exporter of the yearDecember 6, 2021](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/ile-de-france-exporter-of-the-year/)
[
Fluigent expertiseDroplet-based microfluidicsNovember 15, 2021](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/droplet-based-microfluidics/)
[
Company newsFluigent 15th year anniversary celebrationOctober 22, 2021](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-15th-year-anniversary-celebration/)
[
Product newsNew Software | OxyGENOctober 19, 2021](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-software-oxygen/)
[
Company newsProudly made in FranceJuly 5, 2021](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/proudly-made-in-france/)
[
Company newsLunar New YearFebruary 12, 2021](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/lunar-new-year/)
[
Company newsCOVID-19 updateMarch 20, 2020](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/covid-19-update/)
[
Fluigent expertiseMicrofluidic setup Flow Rate ad Pressure CalculatorOctober 2, 2019](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/microfluidic-setup-flow-rate-ad-pressure-calculator/)
[
Product newsIntroducing Fluigent New 2-SwitchFebruary 4, 2019](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/introducing-fluigent-new-2-switch/)
[
Product newsNew Pressure Based Flow Controller for IndustryDecember 18, 2018](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/new-pressure-based-flow-controller-for-industry/)
[
Company news\[FRENCH\] La start-up qui réinvente l’analyse médicaleAugust 10, 2018](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/french-la-start-up-qui-reinvente-lanalyse-medicale/)
[
Company newsFluigent provides automated fldic platfrom to BIOART-Lung 2020 projectJuly 13, 2018](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-provides-automated-fldic-platfrom-to-bioart-lung-2020-project/)
[
Product newsSmart Microfluidic has arrivedJune 22, 2018](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/smart-microfluidic-has-arrived/)
[
Company newsFluigent is growing!March 8, 2018](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/fluigent-is-growing/)
[
Product newsFlow EZ™ : the future of microfluidicsApril 27, 2017
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/flow-ez-the-future-of-microfluidics/)
[See the blog](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/)
## Work with us
We are always on the lookout for talented people to join our team.
[Discover our job offers](https://www.fluigent.com/company/career/)
---
### [Company](https://www.fluigent.com/company/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## About us
The microfluidic laboratories and industry were struggling to perform their research and develop equipment to the level and precision required in terms of fluid control. Fluigent was the first company to solve this problem by introducing an innovative technology: pressure pumps. Fluigent’s unique broad range of solutions for use in microfluidic and nanofluidics applications ensure full control of flow rates with a greater control, automation, precision, ease of use and also minimize contamination.
Research lab can use our ready-to-go instruments for a broad range of applications where fluid control is critical.
Industrial companies are able to integrate Fluigent’s technology to enhance and improve their own products.
[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/about-us/)
## Work with us
We are a company of enthusiasts who are eager to share, collaborate and innovate in order to change everyday reality, make the world a safer place, save lives by accelerating scientific progress and discovery.
[Join us](https://www.fluigent.com/company/career/)
## You want to join the experience?
Feel free to look our job opportunities
## Meet the team
Our team members come from all over the world, have different backgrounds, and are passionate about solving exciting challenges every day. Discover the amazing stories of the people behind our products
[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/team/)
## Our news
[
Company newsCollaboration with RAN BiotechnologiesApril 9, 2026
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/collaboration-with-ran-biotechnologies/)
[
Company newsmicro-Gut Modeling With Omi in the July’s issue of Lab on a ChipSeptember 1, 2025
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/gut-modeling-with-omi/)
[
Company newsA Look Into Our Quality Process: Maintaining Fluigent Pressure Controllers August 30, 2024
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/quality-process-pressure-controllers/)
[
Company newsInsights from Fluigent’s Innovator in Microfluidics July 16, 2024
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/interview-innovator-in-microfluidics/)
[See all news](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/)
## Our next events
Fluigent has a strong presence in the microfluidic industry. We attend all the major conferences to showcase our most recent products and applications. We also host our own microfluidics workshops and webinars.
---
- Event Cat See allEventsWebinars
[
20 Years of Microfluidics. Your Work in the SpotlightAugust 7, 2026
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/20-years-of-microfluidics/)
[
Webinar-Spheroid Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads Using Microfluidics March 31, 2026
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-spheroid/)
[
Our Leading Microfluidics Events in 2026February 3, 2026
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/microfluidics-events-in-2026/)
[
Webinar – Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip: focusing on Vessel-on-Chip ModelsFebruary 19, 2026
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-importance-of-flow-in-organ-on-a-chip/)
[See all events](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/)
---
### [Microfluidic OEM Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/)
**Published:** August 24, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
- [
### Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
- [
### Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Liquid Stirring Solutions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/liquid-stirring-solutions/)
- [
### Microfluidic Temperature Control module
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/)
- [
### Microfluidic recirculation system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/)
- [
### Localization microscopy and flow control for multiplexing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
---
### [Microfluidic OEM Technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/)
**Published:** July 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
- [
### Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
- [
### Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Liquid Stirring Solutions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/liquid-stirring-solutions/)
- [
### Microfluidic Temperature Control module
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/)
- [
### Microfluidic recirculation system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/)
---
### [Microfluidic OEM Technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/)
**Published:** July 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
- [
### Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
- [
### Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Liquid Stirring Solutions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/liquid-stirring-solutions/)
- [
### Microfluidic Temperature Control module
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/)
- [
### Microfluidic recirculation system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/)
---
### [Fluigent's Academic Partners](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/)
**Published:** December 12, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
Born from the Institute Curie, Fluigent keeps maintaining scientific genes in its company profile. We work closely with the valued researchers in the microfluidics field to better follow the latest Microfluidics industry development.
Fluigent offers high-performance microfluidics instruments to better serve Academic Partners’ research needs. Parallelly, researchers return their latest scientific feedback for Fluigent’s future R&D advancements.
We believe such scientific collaborations contribute to both parties’ breakthroughs. Let’s move forward together in the Microfluidics world!
- [
### Brand Ambassadors
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/fluigents-brand-ambassadors/)
- [
### Center Partners
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/center-partners/)
---
### [A Microfluidic Pressure Controller Comparison for Your Ultimate Fluid Control System](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
**Published:** December 6, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## How to choose the right microfluidic flow control system
**Cost-effective pressure**
**controller****Medium pressure**
**controller****Premium pressure**
**controller (Fluigent)****Accuracy**MediumGoodExcellent**Stability**Poor to mediumMediumExcellent**Response time and**
**depressurization**++++++**Sensor calibration** Not availableNot availableAvailable**PID/Algorithm**
**performance**No (analog I/O only)GoodExcellent**Ready to use**No (DAQ)NoYes**Flow sensor integration**Not availableNot availableAvailable**Flow rate regulation**NoNoYes, through the
Fluigent algorithm**Microfluidic valve**
**integration and automation**NoNoYes**Noise-free**NoYesYes**Price**LowMediumMedium to High**Compatibility with**
**microfluidics applications**LowMediumHigh**Typical applications**Constant pressure supply:
quake valves, semiconductorsCell culture and basic
droplet microfluidicsDroplet microfluidics, cell culture (OOAC),
advanced fluorescence microscopy,
microfluidic spectroscopy
*Table 1: Pressure controller comparison for microfluidic applications*
**Microfluidic technology** is widely used in **academic research** for a myriad of applications in life sciences, chemistry, and food. It is also becoming **increasingly popular** in analytical device and bioreactor industries, as it brings a new level of analysis and offers several benefits, including **more reliable results** while **minimizing reagent consumption**.
Popular scaled applications today include microfluidics for cell biology, fine perfusion, and organ on a chip studies, or droplet microfluidics for biological encapsulation (digital PCR, organoids).
## Advantages of Fluid Control for Industries
In the world of microfluidics, **flow control is essential for reliable results**. Several technologies are available on the market, including **syringe pumps, peristaltic pumps, and pressure controllers**.
[Pressure control](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/) is a technology of choice in microfluidics as it usually offers higher performance and reliability [compared to syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/). Yet all pressure controllers available on the market are **not equal,** with some of them **not adapted to microfluidics**.
Each type has its own set of features and capabilities, catering to different budget constraints and research requirements. Depending on the user requirements, one will prioritize higher performance and reliability, which often comes with higher costs, while the other will optimize price at the cost of reduced performance.
## In the crowded jungle of pressure controllers and regulators, what is the best pressure controller for microfluidics?
### What are the different pressure controllers?
We identified 3 different types of pressure controllers available in the market for users to choose from. We compared them in terms of cost-effectiveness and quality.
- **Cost-effective pressure controllers** are the most basic and affordable option. They typically have lower performance compared to the medium and premium options.
- **Medium pressure controllers** offer a balance between affordability and performance. They provide improved performance compared to cost-effective pressure controllers, but still find
- **Premium pressure controllers**, as the name suggests, offer the highest level of accuracy and stability. They are designed for applications where precision and reliability are of utmost importance, which is usually the case in microfluidics. Here the pressure controllers used are the Fluigent [Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) and [F-OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
Firstly, we compare the 3 pressure controllers in terms of **performance (accuracy, stability, response time**), and next focus on **usability** and **integration capabilities**. We finally discussed the achievable applications for each device.
### Choosing a pressure controller based on performance
When choosing a pressure controller, a common practice is comparing specifications listed on product technical documentation such as product datasheet or user manual. There are several important parameters to consider such as **product accuracy, repeatability, or response time.**
Although a good approach to eliminate products that are beyond doubt out of specifications, it is a complex exercise as some manufacturers give specifications based on the sensor or valve that compose the pressure controller, while others tend to provide data based on real tests.
In addition to specifications, what makes the general performance of a pressure controller is its regulation algorithm. In fact, basic pressure controllers only provide analog communication based on voltage, while some can provide PID controllers that allow giving live feedback loops and adjusting the pressure based on the pressure sensor feedback. It ultimately affects pressure stability, accuracy, response time, and pressure transitions.
We here do a microfluidic pressure controller comparison based on accuracy, response time, and pressure transitions for cost-effective, medium-range, and premium pressure controllers with a pressure range of 0-1 bar.
### How accurate and stable is your pressure controller
**Accuracy** is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a pressure controller. A pressure controller with **high accuracy ensures that the desired pressure setpoint is achieved**. In addition, **pressure stability** is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a pressure controller, as many applications rely on stable pressurization processes.
We perform **accuracy** and **stability** analysis by ordering a pressure of 750 mbar, measuring with an external calibrated pressure sensor, and keeping the ordered pressure of 750 mbar for more than 10 hours.
This approach allows us to identify how the devices behave under continuous operating conditions and to detect any drift or stability issues that only become apparent during prolonged operations.
*Figure 1: Accuracy and stability comparison using cost-effective, medium, and premium pressure controllers*
Figure 1 shows pressure **accuracy and stability** for the cost-effective, medium, and premium pressure controllers. Looking at the average, it is possible to see that both cost-effective and medium-pressure controllers show a shift in accuracy compared to the targeted value of 750 mbar with a difference of more than 2 mbar. This is likely linked to the fact that both products do not have live calibration capabilities, inducing a shift compared to the targeted value, ultimately generating noise (see figure 2).
Figure 2 Inherent noise of a medium pressure controller without available calibration
## Enhanced stability and accuracy over the long term with the premium system
Using the premium pressure controller, the average value is **749.81** mbar, +/- 0.082 mbar. The premium pressure controller is t**he most accurate device** with less than 0.2 mbar shift compared to the targeted value, making it the most performant product in terms of accuracy.
Another parameter we can analyze here is stability. We observe that with the cost-effective system, **750** mbar is achieved at the start of the experiment but in less than an hour we can observe a shift in the applied pressure, transitioning from 749 mbar after ~30 min and 748 mbar after a few hours. We observe similar pressure drift with the medium pressure controller, with a lower degree of magnitude (747.5 to 747 mbar).
Utilizing the premium pressure controller, the pressure of approximately 749.8 mbar remains stable for over 8 hours without exhibiting any drifts. Additionally, we observe enhanced stability and accuracy over the long term, as it is consistently maintained within the required pressure range with commendable stability.
### Response time: how fast do you want to change pressure?
Response time is another important factor to consider when choosing a pressure controller. A pressure controller with good performance will be able to q**uickly respond to changes in pressure and maintain stability.**
The response time of a pressure controller is a critical factor in microfluidics due to the precise and often delicate nature of processes within these systems. A pressure controller with a **quick** and **accurate** response time **ensures that when setpoints or external conditions change**, the system can adapt rapidly and maintain the desired pressure with minimal overshot or oscillations. This is **essential for maintaining the integrity** **of experiments** or processes, as delays or inaccuracies in pressure adjustment can result in compromised data, ineffective fluid control, and potentially damage sensitive microfluidic components.
We here perform **2 response time tests**: pressure increase (400 mbar -> 500 mbar) and pressure decrease (500 mbar -> 400 mbar).
We define the response time as the time to reach 98% of the targeted value and remain in a tolerance of 2% of the targeted value. *Note that we cannot perform this test on the cost-effective pressure controller as it is controlled through analog I/O only and does not include a PID.*
*Figure 3: Response time using medium pressure controller and premium pressure controller*
***Response time***
***400 to 500 mbar***
***Response time***
***500 to 400 mbar***
***Medium Pressure Controller****0.8 s**0.7 s****Premium Pressure Controller****0.8 s**0.1 s*
*Table 2: Pressure controller comparison for microfluidic applications*## A Better response time with the premium fluid controller
Figure 3 shows pressurization and depressurization using the medium pressure controller and premium controller. When using the **medium pressure controller**, for pressurization we observe the time to reach 98% of the targeted value is 0.8 seconds while using the **premium pressure controller** 0.8 seconds. For depressurization we observe the time to reach 98% of the targeted value is **0.7 seconds** while using the **premium pressure controller** 0.1 seconds.
This shows the medium pressure controller and premium pressure controller have similar response time for pressurization for a transition at 100 mbar, while depressurization is about 10 times faster with the premium pressure controller.
In addition, with the medium pressure controller, we can observe minor pressure oscillations and overshoots after reaching a stable phase, which also originates from the regulation algorithm performance.
Additionally, when one needs to stop a fluidic protocol, depressurization time will depend on the pressure controller used. Graph 4. shows the depressurization time from 500 mbar to 400 mbar using the medium and premium pressure controllers. We can observe it takes 0.7 s and 0.1 s using the medium and premium pressure controllers respectively.
*Figure 4: Response time using medium pressure controller and premium pressure controller*
Depressurization time has a great impact on microfluidic protocols, as during the depressurization time liquids are still injected even though the experiment has ended. Precious liquids injected during the depressurization time are wasted, which ultimately has an impact on experiment costs. Depending on the system used and the related fluidic resistance, depressurization time can take more than tenths of seconds!
### The smoother the better: Product algorithm and PID ultimately affect performance
As mentioned in the above paragraphs, product specifications do not make it all. PID and algorithms also have an impact on performance. Figure 5 shows the pressure curvature during a transition from a higher pressure for the medium pressure controller. We can observe some jabbering when transitioning to 100 mbar, which is not observed using the premium pressure controller (figure 5).
Figure 5 Comparison of depressurization time using the cost effective and premium pressure controllers
In our comparative analysis between pressure controllers, we observed noticeable differences in performance, particularly in terms of accuracy and stability. Both cost-effective pressure controllers exhibited more pronounced fluctuations and required a longer duration to achieve a state of equilibrium. Additionally, it stabilized within a less precise pressure range compared to its counterpart.
On the other hand, the **premium product demonstrated a remarkably smoother** and **more stable** transition profile. It efficiently and rapidly attained stability, aligning closely with the desired precision levels.
This superior performance in maintaining consistent pressure control under varying conditions underscores the premium product’s advanced engineering and design.
Such characteristics are particularly vital in microfluidics applications where exact pressure control is crucial for the integrity and accuracy of the results.
Figure 6 Comparison of pressure transitions between a medium pressure controller and a premium pressure controller
### Microfluidics require expertise for integration
#### Time to market: Is your pressure controller ready to use and easy to integrate?
When using simple pressure controllers, they generally do not come with ready-to-use software and high-level functions. For the low-cost and medium-range models, an analog-to-digital communication converter was required to facilitate proper data acquisition and interpretation.
This additional step needs to be considered in terms of additional internal development and time to market. We present below a microfluidic pressure controller comparison based on ready-to-use capability:
- **Cost-effective pressure controller:** needs to develop an additional DAQ device for commanding the system. The absence of a need for an analog-to-digital converter indicates a more advanced and integrated design, aligning better with modern digital interfaces and standards.
- **Medium range pressure controller**: Although there is no need for an additional DAQ (all internal electronics integrated into the device), it is required to develop a custom software interface to start measurements.
- **Premium pressure controller:** Ready-to-use software with advanced dedicated SDK available in several languages (Python, C++, C#)
## Mastering the microfluidic environment: pressure controllers for flow rate control, valve management, and automation
### What is the difference between flow control and pressure control?
Many processes in microfluidics demand precise monitoring and regulation of flow rates, along with the **integration of valves to automate complex workflows**, ensuring **repeatability** and **reliability**.
Efficient flow rate monitoring facilitates precise volume injections, while [valve automation](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/) proves essential for tasks such as sample preparation, multiplexing, or cleaning processes.
Explore our article for insights into the challenges of [fluidic valve automation](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/), and the advantages offered by our F-OEM flow control platform.
In contrast to traditional pressure controllers, **achieving advanced regulation capabilities** by **integrating** and **controlling** microfluidic flow sensors and valves demands expertise in electronics, mechanics, and microfluidics.
Synchronization among all microfluidic components is pivotal for seamless automation. With classical pressure controllers, integration should be done by the microfluidic expert resulting in a potentially **costly, time-consuming, and resource-dependent process.** This could impact time to market and compromise the final system’s reliability.
Our premium microfluidic pressure controller stands out by seamlessly interfacing with in-house microfluidic flow sensors and [valves](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/). Commanding these components requires **no additional development, through dedicated software and SDK,** offering a streamlined solution that enhances efficiency and reliability without sacrificing time to market.
- **Cost-effective pressure controller:** development needed
- **Medium range pressure controller**: development needed
- **Premium pressure controller:** Ready-to-use with Fluigent flow sensors and valves
## What are the typical applications achievable with the above pressure controllers?
As seen above, each pressure controller has distinctive performance, ranging from poor/medium to excellent depending on the parameter. Microfluidic applications most generally **require highly demanding fluidic performance**. Consequently, all pressure controllers discussed here do not cover the complete list of microfluidic applications.
- **Cost-effective pressure controller:** The cost-effective pressure controller has average to poor performance in terms of accuracy, or stability. In addition, PID is not available. It makes the product limited to applications where pressure should not be highly stable, without any fast (a few seconds) pressure changes over time. It is suitable for low-precision analytical devices with flow rates higher than a hundred milliliters per minute. Typical applications include gas chromatography and semiconductor processes. In microfluidics, it can be used for injecting pressure for opening/closing valves, such as in quake valve processes.
- **Medium range pressure controller**: The medium pressure controller has average to great performance in terms of accuracy and stability. A basic PID is available which can be useful for less demanding microfluidic applications. It can be useful for microfluidic cell perfusion and culture, and in some cases of droplet microfluidics where production should remain stable and without frequent flow rate changes. It is however limited to complex microfluidic protocols, or where processes require minimal use of sample reagents.
- **Premium pressure controller:** The premium pressure controller from Fluigent was developed to meet all microfluidic application requirements. Consequently, general performance is excellent, including excellent accuracy, stability, and response time. Its patented regulation algorithm allows to finely adjust pressure during any microfluidic protocol, and flow sensor and valve integration is implemented by default, allowing complex microfluidic protocols to perform. Applications include amongst others [droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/) for [digital PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/) and [encapsulation](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/) applications, cell biology for [organs on chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) and cell culture, cell sorting and flow cytometry, and [advanced fluorescence microscopy](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/) where all multiplexing protocols must be automated while saving previous sample reagents.
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/)
[
### Sample injection and recirculation microfluidic valve for industry
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-l-x/)
[
### 3-port/2-way bidirectional valve for industry
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-2-x/)
## Expertise & resources
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [
### Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
---
### [Microfluidic OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
**Published:** December 15, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Manufacturing capabilities for industrials
Fluigent’s OEM products build on our 15 years of pressure-based flow control expertise and proprietary technologies to bring versatile, cost-effective, and customizable microfluidic OEM fluid handling products and systems to life science and diagnostic equipment manufacturers.
[OEM Fluigent Brochure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/09/fluigent-oem-brochure.pdf)
## Microfluidic Functionalities
+Additional functionalities: heater, shaker, pipetting robot, …
## Pressure controllers for liquids
State of the art, modular, and integrable microfluidic OEM modules[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/ " OEM modules ")to handle fluids in industrial systems. Discover our field-proven liquid handling modules.
---
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Management Unit
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
## Microfluidic components
State of the art, modular, and integrable microfluidic OEM modules[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/ " OEM modules ")to automate fluid management and to build your complete microfluidic system.
---
[
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
[
### 3-port/2-way bidirectional valve for industry
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-2-x/)
[
### Sample injection and recirculation microfluidic valve for industry
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-l-x/)
[
### Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/)
## Fully integrated system development
### Bring the vision of your device to life
[Complete development](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/) of a fully operational device based on your requirements. Benefit from our microfluidic OEM expertise and unique portfolio of cutting-edge technologies to accelerate time to market.
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## We empower your microfluidic application
From droplet microfluidics to live-cell imaging, our experts will provide valuable insights for your application.
Explore areas of [applications](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/) where microfluidics catalyzes the results, production and yield of industrial processes.
[
### Combining Microfluidics and Spectroscopy
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/microfluidics-and-spectroscopy/)
[
### Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
[
### Localization microscopy and flow control for multiplexing
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
[
### Contamination-free Liquid Handling System
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
[
### Microfluidic Drug Discovery
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
[
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
“I was impressed with the quality of the product. In particular, I would like to highlight the Fluigent team’s clear and open communication, their smooth management style, and of course, great R&D work.”
## A trusted partner for your microfluidic OEM system
Over the past 10 years, we’ve provided more than 1, 500 microfluidic OEM modules and systems to businesses worldwide. Our R&D team represents more than 30% of the company, leading us to earning more than 20 patents.
## 65
OEM/Industrial customers around the world
## 20
Patents put us at the forefront of innovation
## 15
Different fully integrated OEM systems developped
## 1500**+**
OEM systems and components delivered
## 10
Years of experience in OEM lab automation
## Highest quality standards and compliance – ISO 9001
We continuously improve the quality of our products and processes to ensure compliance with our OEM microfluidic solutions. We have a commitment to quality and remain ISO 9001 certified. In addition, we’ve successfully completed several external audits and effectively provide components and systems with additional certifications such as UL, or IP65
We are committed to **customer satisfaction and provide long-term support to develop the best solutions for our customer’s needs**
---
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/)### [OEM expertise](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/)
Read about microfluidic OEM and liquid handling on the blog
[](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/technologies/)### [Fluigent technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/technologies/)
Discover our portfolio of cutting-edge technologies.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/)### [Next events](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/)
Meet our experts at upcoming events.
---
### [Microfluidic Research Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
---
### [Events & Webinars](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
---
### [Microfluidic Temperature Control module](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fluigent has developed microfluidic temperature control modules that can be coupled to microfluidic systems to maintain microfluidic components at any desired temperature. Visit our technology webpage to learn more about the working principles of our temperature control module and how it can be integrated into your microfluidic system.
**This technology can be integrated into any custom project.**
- **High performance:** stability +/- 0,2°C
- **User friendly:** easily switch between heating and cooling modes
- **Versatile:** can be integrated into Fluigent’s protocols and communicate with other modules in a larger microfluidic setup
## How does our microfluidic temperature regulation system work?
### Fluigent’s microfluidic temperature control module
The temperature controller is based on direct conversion of the electric current into thermal energy. It allows the temperature to be close to 0°C on one side of a thermoelectric device. On the other side, a straight-fin heat sink helps with heat dissipation. The goal of the heat sink is to maximize the surface within a fixed volume to optimize the heat exchange between the device and ambient air. It can be coupled with a fan to be more efficient. Sensors are placed on each side to monitor the temperature change.
***Fig 1 Operating principle Temperature control module can heat or cool according to instructions and interact with other modules via software integration***
*Fig 2 Example of Fluigents microfluidic temperature control module that can be integrated into a microfluidic system*
### Microfluidic temperature control benefits of Peltier elements
The Peltier effect is used as a solid-state method of inducing small temperature increases in devices known as thermoelectric plates or Peltier elements. When DC current flows through, heat is transferred from one side of the device to the other. The scheme below shows how cooling works in these systems. In contact with the cooled surface, samples are maintained at low temperatures, while on the other side of the device, resistive heating generated by current flow leads to emission of heat. \[1\]
Using semiconductors in a thermoelectric plate saves power, consuming only 10% of the power needed by a traditional air conditioner to achieve the same temperature. Moreover, thanks to its compact and lightweight form factor, it is a cooling technique well suited to microfluidic applications. Lastly, it is durable, has no mechanical moving parts, and does not require contact with fluids. \[2\]
***Fig 3 Functional diagram of a thermoelectric module***
### Fluigent’s microfluidic temperature management expertise equals performance
#### Stability and accuracy
The use of ventilation enables the temperature control module to reach the set temperature, and the PID controller prevents overrunning and oscillations. With the right adjustment of air speed and control loop parameters, the temperature control module stays within a margin of error of 0.2°C of the set value once the transition phase is complete.
#### Response Time
The set temperature is reached in less than 7 minutes, depending on air circulation. Applications usually do not require a specific response time, but it could be improved with greater intensity of the electric current, stronger ventilation and/or calibration of the PID controller in the microfluidic temperature control module.
*Fig 4 Temperature measured after the transition phase for a setpoint value of* 5°C
F**ig 5 Testing different fan speeds for a setpoint value of 2°C for the cold part without PID controller**
**Fig 6 Testing different fan speeds for a setpoint value of 2°C with PID controller**
## Applications requiring microfluidic temperature regulation
- ****Cell encapsulation****
[Cell encapsulation](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/) is used to improve the recovery of viable cells, a highly temperature-dependent process. As refrigeration is the preferred method for short-term storage of cells, it is crucial to maintain the samples before encapsulation below 5°C during the entire duration of the experiment in order to preserve them. \[3\]\[4\]
- **Live cell imaging**
At ambient temperatures, [fluorescent microscopy](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/) may be affected by photo-bleaching for certain specific experiments. However, this drawback is reduced at low temperatures. The number of photons emitted by fluorescent molecules can also increase, and the signal to noise ratio of fluorescence imaging can improve. \[5\]\[6\]
Moreover, the ability to quickly and reversibly heat cells is useful in the study of the cell cytoskeleton, which plays an essential role in several cellular processes, because its dynamic microtubule responds to temperature changes in the range of 2-50°C induced by Peltier elements. \[7\]\[8\]\[9\]
- ****Droplet Production****
Temperature impacts various parameters during [microfluidic-based droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/). For instance, the size and frequency of formation of droplets increase with temperature. The regularity of their shape and the flow regime also depends on the microfluidic temperature control of the dispersed and continuous phases.
- **Temperature gradient focusing**
With two Peltier elements separated by a small gap, one can create a temperature gradient across a microchannel or a capillary. Combined with an applied electric current and an appropriate buffer, it can concentrate analytes by balancing the electrophoretic velocity of the analytes against the bulk flow. It can also separate them, thanks to the electrophoretic velocity gradient generated by the temperature gradient. \[12\]\[13\]
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Management Unit
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
- [
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
- [
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
## Expertises & resources
- [
### From idea to production
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### High Throughput Single Cell Analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
## References
\[1\] S. B. Riffat, X. Ma, “Improving the coefficient of performance of thermoelectric colling systems: a review”, *International Journal of Energy Research*, 2004
\[2\] S. Kumar, A. Gupta, G. Yadav, H. P. Singh, “Peltier Module for Refrigeration and Heating using Embedded system”, *International Conference on Recent Developments in Control, Automation and Power Engineering*, 2015
\[3\] S. Swioklo, A. Constantinescu, C. J. Connon, “Alginhate-Encapsulation for the Improved Hypothermic Preservation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells”, *Stem Cells Translational* Medecine, 2016
\[4\] A. Z. Khan, T. P. Utheim, C. J. Jackson, K. A. Tonseth, J. R. Eidet, “Concise Review: Considering Optimal Temperature for Short-Term Storage of Epithelial Cells”, *Frontiers in Medecine*, 2021
\[5\] J. S. H. Danial, Y. Aguib, M. H. Yacoub, “Advanced fluorescence microscopy techniques for the life sciences”, *Global Cardiology Science & Practice*, 2016
\[6\] R. Kaufmann, C. Hagen, K. Grünewald, “Fluorescence cryo-microscopy: current challenges and prospects”, *Current Opinion in Chemical Biology*, 2014
\[7\] G. Velve-Casquillas, J. Costa, F. Carlier-Grynkorn, A. Mayeux, P. T. Tran, “A Fast Microfluidic Temperature Control Device for Studying Microtubule Dynamics in Fission Yeast”, *Methods in Cell Biology*, 2010
\[8\] G. Velve-Casquillas, C. Fu, J. Cramer,S. Meance, A. Plecis, D. Baigl, J-J. Greffet, Y. Chen, M. Piel, P. T. Tran, “Fast microfluidic temperature control for high resolution live cell imaging”, *Lab on a Chip*, 2011
\[9\] F. Cantoni, G. Werr, L. Barbe, A. M. Porras, M. Tenje, A microfluidic chip carrier including temperature control and perfusion system for long-term cell imaging”, *HarwareX*, 2021
\[10\] F. Jiang, Y. Xu, J. Song, H. Lu, « Numerical Study on the Effect of Temperature on Droplet Formation inside the Microfluidic Chip”, *Journal of Applied Fluid Mechanics*, 2018
[**\[**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)11\] B. Riechers, F. Wittbarcht, A. Hütten, T. Koop, “The homogeneous ice nucleation rate of water droplets produced in a microfluidic device and the role of temperature uncertainty” *Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics*, 2013
\[12\] D. Ross, L. E. Locascio, “Microfluidic Temperature Gradient Focusing”, *Analytical Chemistry*, 2002
\[13\] T. Matsui, J. Franzke, A. Manz, D. Janasek, “Temperature gradient focusing in a PDMS/glass hybrid microfluidic chip”, *Electrophoresis*, 2007
---
### [Microfluidic Temperature Control module](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
Fluigent has developed microfluidic temperature control modules that can be coupled to microfluidic systems to maintain microfluidic components at any desired temperature. Visit our technology webpage to learn more about the working principles of our temperature control module and how it can be integrated into your microfluidic system.
**This technology can be integrated into any custom project.**
- **High performance:** stability +/- 0,2°C
- **User friendly:** easily switch between heating and cooling modes
- **Versatile:** can be integrated into Fluigent’s protocols and communicate with other modules in a larger microfluidic setup
## How does our microfluidic temperature regulation system work?
### Fluigent’s microfluidic temperature control module
The temperature controller is based on direct conversion of the electric current into thermal energy. It allows the temperature to be close to 0°C on one side of a thermoelectric device. On the other side, a straight-fin heat sink helps with heat dissipation. The goal of the heat sink is to maximize the surface within a fixed volume to optimize the heat exchange between the device and ambient air. It can be coupled with a fan to be more efficient. Sensors are placed on each side to monitor the temperature change.
***Fig 1 Operating principle Temperature control module can heat or cool according to instructions and interact with other modules via software integration***
*Fig 2 Example of Fluigents microfluidic temperature control module that can be integrated into a microfluidic system*
### Microfluidic temperature control benefits of Peltier elements
The Peltier effect is used as a solid-state method of inducing small temperature increases in devices known as thermoelectric plates or Peltier elements. When DC current flows through, heat is transferred from one side of the device to the other. The scheme below shows how cooling works in these systems. In contact with the cooled surface, samples are maintained at low temperatures, while on the other side of the device, resistive heating generated by current flow leads to emission of heat. \[1\]
Using semiconductors in a thermoelectric plate saves power, consuming only 10% of the power needed by a traditional air conditioner to achieve the same temperature. Moreover, thanks to its compact and lightweight form factor, it is a cooling technique well suited to microfluidic applications. Lastly, it is durable, has no mechanical moving parts, and does not require contact with fluids. \[2\]
***Fig 3 Functional diagram of a thermoelectric module***
### Fluigent’s microfluidic temperature management expertise equals performance
#### Stability and accuracy
The use of ventilation enables the temperature control module to reach the set temperature, and the PID controller prevents overrunning and oscillations. With the right adjustment of air speed and control loop parameters, the temperature control module stays within a margin of error of 0.2°C of the set value once the transition phase is complete.
#### Response Time
The set temperature is reached in less than 7 minutes, depending on air circulation. Applications usually do not require a specific response time, but it could be improved with greater intensity of the electric current, stronger ventilation and/or calibration of the PID controller in the microfluidic temperature control module.
*Fig 4 Temperature measured after the transition phase for a setpoint value of* 5°C
F**ig 5 Testing different fan speeds for a setpoint value of 2°C for the cold part without PID controller**
**Fig 6 Testing different fan speeds for a setpoint value of 2°C with PID controller**
## Applications requiring microfluidic temperature regulation
- ****Cell encapsulation****
[Cell encapsulation](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/) is used to improve the recovery of viable cells, a highly temperature-dependent process. As refrigeration is the preferred method for short-term storage of cells, it is crucial to maintain the samples before encapsulation below 5°C during the entire duration of the experiment in order to preserve them. \[3\]\[4\]
- **Live cell imaging**
At ambient temperatures, [fluorescent microscopy](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/research/applications/%e7%bb%86%e8%83%9e%e7%94%9f%e7%89%a9%e5%ad%a6%e6%98%be%e5%be%ae%e9%95%9c/) may be affected by photo-bleaching for certain specific experiments. However, this drawback is reduced at low temperatures. The number of photons emitted by fluorescent molecules can also increase, and the signal to noise ratio of fluorescence imaging can improve. \[5\]\[6\]
Moreover, the ability to quickly and reversibly heat cells is useful in the study of the cell cytoskeleton, which plays an essential role in several cellular processes, because its dynamic microtubule responds to temperature changes in the range of 2-50°C induced by Peltier elements. \[7\]\[8\]\[9\]
- ****Droplet Production****
Temperature impacts various parameters during [microfluidic-based droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/research/applications/%e6%b6%b2%e6%bb%b4%e7%b2%92%e5%ad%90%e7%94%9f%e6%88%90/). For instance, the size and frequency of formation of droplets increase with temperature. The regularity of their shape and the flow regime also depends on the microfluidic temperature control of the dispersed and continuous phases.
- **Temperature gradient focusing**
With two Peltier elements separated by a small gap, one can create a temperature gradient across a microchannel or a capillary. Combined with an applied electric current and an appropriate buffer, it can concentrate analytes by balancing the electrophoretic velocity of the analytes against the bulk flow. It can also separate them, thanks to the electrophoretic velocity gradient generated by the temperature gradient. \[12\]\[13\]
## Related products
## Expertises & resources
- [
### From idea to production
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### High Throughput Single Cell Analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
## References
\[1\] S. B. Riffat, X. Ma, “Improving the coefficient of performance of thermoelectric colling systems: a review”, *International Journal of Energy Research*, 2004
\[2\] S. Kumar, A. Gupta, G. Yadav, H. P. Singh, “Peltier Module for Refrigeration and Heating using Embedded system”, *International Conference on Recent Developments in Control, Automation and Power Engineering*, 2015
\[3\] S. Swioklo, A. Constantinescu, C. J. Connon, “Alginhate-Encapsulation for the Improved Hypothermic Preservation of Human Adipose-Derived Stem Cells”, *Stem Cells Translational* Medecine, 2016
\[4\] A. Z. Khan, T. P. Utheim, C. J. Jackson, K. A. Tonseth, J. R. Eidet, “Concise Review: Considering Optimal Temperature for Short-Term Storage of Epithelial Cells”, *Frontiers in Medecine*, 2021
\[5\] J. S. H. Danial, Y. Aguib, M. H. Yacoub, “Advanced fluorescence microscopy techniques for the life sciences”, *Global Cardiology Science & Practice*, 2016
\[6\] R. Kaufmann, C. Hagen, K. Grünewald, “Fluorescence cryo-microscopy: current challenges and prospects”, *Current Opinion in Chemical Biology*, 2014
\[7\] G. Velve-Casquillas, J. Costa, F. Carlier-Grynkorn, A. Mayeux, P. T. Tran, “A Fast Microfluidic Temperature Control Device for Studying Microtubule Dynamics in Fission Yeast”, *Methods in Cell Biology*, 2010
\[8\] G. Velve-Casquillas, C. Fu, J. Cramer,S. Meance, A. Plecis, D. Baigl, J-J. Greffet, Y. Chen, M. Piel, P. T. Tran, “Fast microfluidic temperature control for high resolution live cell imaging”, *Lab on a Chip*, 2011
\[9\] F. Cantoni, G. Werr, L. Barbe, A. M. Porras, M. Tenje, A microfluidic chip carrier including temperature control and perfusion system for long-term cell imaging”, *HarwareX*, 2021
\[10\] F. Jiang, Y. Xu, J. Song, H. Lu, « Numerical Study on the Effect of Temperature on Droplet Formation inside the Microfluidic Chip”, *Journal of Applied Fluid Mechanics*, 2018
[**\[**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)11\] B. Riechers, F. Wittbarcht, A. Hütten, T. Koop, “The homogeneous ice nucleation rate of water droplets produced in a microfluidic device and the role of temperature uncertainty” *Physical Chemistry Chemical Physics*, 2013
\[12\] D. Ross, L. E. Locascio, “Microfluidic Temperature Gradient Focusing”, *Analytical Chemistry*, 2002
\[13\] T. Matsui, J. Franzke, A. Manz, D. Janasek, “Temperature gradient focusing in a PDMS/glass hybrid microfluidic chip”, *Electrophoresis*, 2007
---
### [Microfluidics in Water analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/water-treatment/)
**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Why is water testing important?
As water is consumed by every living being every day, it is a critical resource that needs to be monitored closely. Whether for human consumption, livestock, or agriculture, water quality must be assessed and ensured at all times to **prevent mass contamination** and **maintain the health of human** and **animal** populations and soils. This testing can be done by different actors, from governmental organizations to individual consumers, making it essential to have fast, easy-to-use, and reliable solutions. To respond to these needs, **microfluidics in water analysis is a cost-effective and efficient solution** for water testing.
## Industrial applications
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
## Research applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## How does conventional water analysis work?
Multiple different steps are needed for conventional water testing. They typically include sample collection and preservation if the test needs to be done remotely (since some devices are only available in specific locations), followed by **filtration** to separate solid particles from the liquid before being analyzed. During analysis, various methods can be used to **determine the concentration of contaminants or parameters** of interest like turbidity, pH, heavy metals, or bacteria concentration. The results are then compared to established guidelines or regulations to determine whether the water meets regulatory requirements.
## Microfluidics as a solution to current limitations on water quality monitoring
Conventional water monitoring is mainly based on laboratory instruments or sophisticated and expensive handheld probes for on-site analysis. This requires trained personnel and can be time-consuming. Microfluidics in water analysis is field-deployable, providing a way to perform scanning at remote or hard-to-reach locations directly at the point of sampling. Microfluidics also provides increased sensitivity, with the ability to detect lower contaminant concentrations than with traditional methods. The analysis time is drastically reduced, allowing for real-time monitoring and increased efficiency while preventing water waste through the use of very small samples. Reduced measurement times, improvements in sensitivity, enhancement of selectivity, and high repeatability are all advantages of [**using microfluidic devices**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/) when integrated into miniaturized chemical systems for water quality analysis.
## Related products
### Research field
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
### Industrial field
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Expertise & resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics overview: History and Definition
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
## Looking for a new market?
From the life sciences to the food industry, many applications require the use of fluids driven at flow rates ranging from nanoliters to milliliters per minute. At low flow rates like these, the success of such applications strongly depends on the level of control and automation of fluidic operations.
These applications require flow control systems designed to ensure their success.
[All Market & Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/)
[Go to research field](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
[Go to industrial field](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/)
---
### [Microfluidics in Cosmetics](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/cosmetics/)
**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Offering totally new visual and sensorial experiences.
### Advantages of Microfluidics in cosmetics
With [**Microfluidic Droplet Generation**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/), cosmetics companies can offer **high-quality product customization**. More specifically, emulsions can use surfactants to mix and homogenize multiple immiscible oils with high accuracy and reproducibility, opening new and unprecedented product development possibilities. In addition, microfluidics technology is used in cosmetics research laboratories to study how formulations interact with the skin and skin capillaries at the micrometer level, while also enabling researchers to reduce or eliminate animal experiments in cosmetics through the use of microfluidic chips. Formulation development time is shortened through the use of microfluidic systems to rapidly develop new formulations and test them in high-throughput screening, significantly reducing the time required to bring new products to market. Microfluidics also make it possible to operate with very small volumes of materials, reducing waste and minimizing the costs associated with raw materials.
### Advantages of droplet-based microfluidics for the cosmetics industry
[**Droplet-based microfluidics**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) offer significant benefits to the cosmetics industry. With reagents encapsulated in highly monodispersed droplets at the millimeter scale, active ingredients can be preserved and protected from the environment up until the moment of application. Different types of emulsions can be generated for the needs of the individual product, each with different purposes. Droplets do not burst until they are applied directly to the skin, providing a visual and sensory experience along with improved product efficacy and better moisturization or drug absorption.
### Unmatched droplet homogeneity
In cosmetics, microfluidics offer high control over an immense range of parameters, including droplet size, formulation, and aesthetics (colors, pigments), while also providing unmatched consistency compared to traditional batch methods. Manufacturers can develop **custom products with visual and sensory feels specific to their brand** – a must in the cosmetics industry. The ability to precisely monitor droplet size allows for direct control of drug loading capacity and product functionality. Microfluidic systems can be scaled up or down and automated with a high degree of reproducibility to meet specific production needs, making them adaptable to both small-scale laboratory research and large-scale manufacturing.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
## Advantages of emulsions for the cosmetics industry
- Fine control over parameters like droplet size & shape
- High homogeneity
- Lower droplet size dispersion (CV: less than 2%)
- Scale-up capabilities
[Thousands of micro-emulsions for cosmetics](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/08/micro-emulsions_cosmetic-innovation-fluigent_eng.pdf)
## Related products
### Research field
- [
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
- [
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Double Emulsion Generation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
- [
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Platform for emulsions & droplets
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
### Industrial field
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Expertise & resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos### DROPLET STARTER package – Make DROPLETS within minutes!
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/droplet-starter-package-make-droplets-within-minutes/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Generating a water emulsion in an oil solution using a droplet generator chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/production-of-water-in-oil-emulsions-using-a-droplet-generator-chip/)
## Looking for a new market?
From life sciences to the food industry, many applications require the use of fluids driven at flow rates ranging from nanoliters to milliliters per minute. At low flow rates like these, the success of such applications strongly depends on the level of control and automation of fluidic operations.
These applications require flow control systems designed to ensure their success.
[All Market & Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/)
[Go to research field](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
[Go to industrial field](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/)
---
### [Microfluidic Research Equipment](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
**Published:** December 7, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Fluigent microfluidic research equipment presents OxyGEN
Interact with your instruments through an [**all-in-one screen**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/) to control and monitor pressures, flow rates, valve positions and more in real time. Other capabilities include the ability to build time-based protocols and automate any experiment.
### [Research products](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/)
### [Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/)
### [Expertise reviews](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/)
- [version="1.0"?
Videos Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/)
- [ Interviews & Testimonials Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/)
## Which instruments and packages to choose to replace old setups ?
The wide variety of solutions offered by Fluigent for use in microfluidic and nanofluidic applications provide more control, automation, precision, and usability. If you’re looking to replace [**high-precision syringe pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) or other conventional devices, we provide cutting-edge microfluidic systems and components that increase productivity.
Our innovative [**pressure-based microfluidic controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) are compatible with lab on a chip device and a wide variety of microfluidic technologies that will allow users to focus on the science, not on the setup.
Our microfluidic research equipment has been tested in a large number of applications in various industries ([**life science**](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/), [**water management**](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/water-treatment/), [**cosmetics** ](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/cosmetics/), [**food**](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/), etc.). We offer flow and pressure controllers that ensure results with high precision and reproducibility due to their pulseless flow, sensors that control and monitor flow rate directly, microfluidic valves, vacuum and pressure sources, microfluidic chips for droplet generation and for organ-on-a-chip studies, and various accessories perfect for your set up.
[Browse all](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/)
- [ Microfluidic Pressure Based Flow Controller Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/)
- [ Microfluidic Sensors Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/)
- [ Microfluidic Valves Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/)
- [ Pressure Control Reservoirs Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/)
- [ Microfluidic Pressure Sources Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/)
- [ Microfluidic Chips Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/)
- [ Microfluidic Accessories Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/)
- [ Microfluidic Packs Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/)
[
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
[
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
[
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
[
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## What are the research applications possible?
Fluigent was the first company to introduce **pressure-driven flow control** to the microfluidic research market as opposed to conventional syringe and peristaltic pumps.
As a pioneer in microfluidics, we set the standard for microfluidic control and strive to stay on the cutting edge of science. **We created content on microfluidics, microfluidic devices, comparison, and much more to share with the**[ **scientific community**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/)**.**
Our microfluidic research equipment allows us to obtain **optimal and promising results in** [**all fields of research**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/)**.** In [cellular analysis,](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/) flow control is a very important parameter, allowing **non-invasive studies** at the single-cell level and improving precision.
In [organ-on-a-chip & cell culture studies](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/), microfluidics enables one the unique ability to control a cellular microenvironment with high spatiotemporal precision and to present cells with mechanical and biochemical signals in a more physiologically relevant context.
In [cell biology](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/), precise flow control, combined with microscopy tools and cell biology experiments, allows for the creation of an automated environment where the cell can grow in the relevant physiological environment.
In [droplet & particle generation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/), our microfluidic equipment for research application allows users to carry out experiments where **high monodispersity and reproducibility** are required (digital PCR, single-cell encapsulation in droplets etc.), as well as in cases where an expensive API is used, as it greatly reduces waste.
[Browse all](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/)
---
### [Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
**Published:** July 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
**This technology can be integrated in any custom project.
Benefit from the best performance and Fluigent expertise for your project.**
- **Free Standing:** all-in-one pressure controller and supply powered by battery or line voltage.
- **Light and compact:** weighing in less than 170 g and with a volume of 140 cm3
- **Unmatched performance:** excellent stability and response time thanks to Fluigent pressure and liquid handling expertise
- **Silent operation:** < 20 dB
## Technology of our microfluidic micropump
### luigent’s most compact and miniaturized pressure-based liquid handling technology
Pressure-based flow control offers [unequaled flow stability and response times](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/), with most pressure controllers requiring a regulated pressure source.
Although an [external pressure supply](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products-zh-hans/standard-industrial-components-zh-hans/fluigent-rx/) allows users to work over large pressure ranges (generally up to 7 bar) and high gas flow rates, it can be cumbersome, and integration into a device is challenging. Point of care devices needing a small footprint can have engineering challenges.
***Fig 1: (left) A pressure supply and pressure controller vs our new microfluidic micropump (right)***
Fluigent’s microfluidic micropump is a pressure-based technology that offers an integrated **pressure supply and control (positive and negative pressure)** in a light (< 170 g) and compact format (L\*l\*H = 7\*5\*4). The **technology** consists of a **uniquely engineered assembly** of **electronics**, **sensors** integrated with a micropump, and pneumatics to provide high performance.
***Fig 2: (left) Pneumatic schematic of a standard fluidic system using pressure to move fluids (right) Pneumatic schematic of Fluigent new technology***
### Portable or connected
The technology is powered by an embedded rechargeable battery to facilitate portability. It can support a **wide range of connections** (Wi-Fi, BLE, IoT, USB, industrial bus), and embedded protocols. For point-of-care applications, a touch screen can be developed and integrated in our microfluidic micropump based on your needs. A flow sensor can directly be connected to the engineered device.
## Fluigent expertise on microfluidic micropump equals performance
### Unmatched pressure and flow stability
Fluigent’s (patent pending) powerful pressure regulation algorithm is based on physical equations and self-learning routines that offer several benefits for our microfluidic micropump:
- No overshoot/undershoot, allowing for an immediate highly accurate and stable flow
- Useful over a wide pressure or vacuum range (up to 600 mbar, -400 mbar vacuum, standalone pressure/vacuum regulation capability)
- Adapts to any reservoir size
By directly connecting a [flow rate sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products-zh-hans/standard-industrial-components-zh-hans/fs-series/), it is possible to monitor or control flow rate in real time. The algorithm includes a continuous optimization of the parameters that allows it to adapt to the interactions between microfluidic channels in complex situations.
***Fig 3 Pressurization profile of a 50 mL reservoir as a function of time using Fluigents microfluidic micropump technology***
**Fig 4 Fluigents technology connected with a flow rate sensor for pressure based flow control**
### Stop & Go, pressure/vacuum capabilities
When using a gas micropump alone, pressure drops are slow, (see Fig. 5) as compared to Fluigent’s solution with a standalone gas micropump. In fact, the micropump will take more than a minute to reach zero pressure.
***Fig 5 Pressure drop comparison between a standalone micropump and Fluigent microfluidic micropump technology***
**Fig 6 Pressure profile comparison between a micropump equipped with a leakage valve**
Using a pressure leakage or a valve in complement to the pump is a way to circumvent this limitation. With the addition of a pressure leakage component, the pressure drop now takes about 5 seconds (see Fig. 6). However, adding such leakage components influence the overall performance: the maximum pressure that can be reached has now decreased by about 15% (from 375 mbar to 310 mbar illustrated in the graph Fig. 6).
To ensure excellent response time while guaranteeing the best performance, the technology of our microfluidic micropump makes use of proportional valves. Using this engineered solution, pressure drop takes less than a second, and the maximum pressure reachable has not deteriorated (see graph). This allows users to perform operations that require fast response time, or require fast change between applied positive pressure and vacuum.
## Comparing our microfluidic micropump to standard pressure control
**Compact pressure/flow control technology****Standard pressure controllers**
**(e.g. Fluigent PX, P-OEM, F-OEM)****Compactness**– All in one microfluidic micropump for pressure source and control
– Optimized footprintNeed to be connected to an external pressure source and power supply**Pressure/flow stability**Excellent
(~0,3% on the measured value)Excellent
(< 0,1% on the measured value)****Pressure response time****Excellent (a few seconds)Excellent (a few seconds)****Gas flow rate****Up to 2 L/min depending on the model.
Examples:
– 2 L/min using a 0-200 mbar pressure range
– 750 mL/min using 0-380 mbar pressure range
150 mL/min using 0-800 mbar pressure rangeUp to 3.5 L/min depending on the model
Examples:
– 3.5 L/min using Fluigent
F-OEM 0-7000 mbar
– 800 mL/min using Fluigent
F-OEM 0-1000 mbar
– 550 mL/min using Fluigent
PX 0-1000 mbar****Pressure range****– Pressure: Up to 600 mbar (for a single pump)
– Vacuum: Up to -400 mbar– Pressure: Up to 7 bar
– Vacuum: Up to -800 mbar**Lifespan**~ 5 000 h (maintenance can be performed)Lifetime## Related applications that could use a microfluidic micropump
Emerging point of care applications make use of more complex fluidic operations and require compact systems. Our microfluidic micropump is fit for such applications as it is fully connected and provides excellent fluidic performance while being compact.
- **Life Sciences – Point of Care testing and diagnostics**
Point of Care (PoC) testing allows one to diagnose diseases at or near the patient site. Point of care tests such as blood analysis, glucose monitoring, infectious disease testing, cholesterol testing, or cardiac markers are marketed1. A new generation of point of care diagnostic devices has been recently developed for providing higher sensitivity diagnostics, such as nucleic acid amplification tests. These often require more bulky equipment as the internal technology is more advanced.
- **Environmental – water and soil analysis**
Continuous monitoring of water resources such as freshwater, seawater, and, in particular, wastewater and drinking water, for human and animal consumption, is essential2. Conventional water monitoring is based on laboratory instruments that are generally sophisticated and expensive. As the equipment is not easily portable, samples can be compromised during travel. As an alternative, microfluidic-based portable devices have been developed for on-site analysis. Our engineered microfluidic micropump tackles these limitations by bringing a cost-effective solution with a highly reduced footprint.
- **Other Industrial applications**
Complex pressure and flow distribution can be eliminated as the unit can be placed at the location where pressure, vacuum, or flow control is needed.
## Related products
## Expertise and resources
## References
1\. Sachdeva, S., Davis, R. W. & Saha, A. K. Microfluidic Point-of-Care Testing: Commercial Landscape and Future Directions. *Front. Bioeng. Biotechnol.* **8**, 1–14 (2021).
2\. Janire, S., Raquel, C.-C., R\_oisín, M. O. & Lourdes, Basabe-Desmonts Fernando, B.-L. Microfluidics and materials for smart water monitoring: A review. **1186**, (2021).
**Websites:**
---
### [Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
**Published:** July 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
**This technology can be integrated in any custom project.
Benefit from the best performance and Fluigent expertise for your project.**
- **Free Standing:** all-in-one pressure controller and supply powered by battery or line voltage.
- **Light and compact:** weighing in less than 170 g and with a volume of 140 cm3
- **Unmatched performance:** excellent stability and response time thanks to Fluigent pressure and liquid handling expertise
- **Silent operation:** < 20 dB
## Technology of our microfluidic micropump
### luigent’s most compact and miniaturized pressure-based liquid handling technology
Pressure-based flow control offers [unequaled flow stability and response times](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/), with most pressure controllers requiring a regulated pressure source.
Although an [external pressure supply](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/) allows users to work over large pressure ranges (generally up to 7 bar) and high gas flow rates, it can be cumbersome, and integration into a device is challenging. Point of care devices needing a small footprint can have engineering challenges.
***Fig 1: (left) A pressure supply and pressure controller vs our new microfluidic micropump (right)***
Fluigent’s microfluidic micropump is a pressure-based technology that offers an integrated **pressure supply and control (positive and negative pressure)** in a light (< 170 g) and compact format (L\*l\*H = 7\*5\*4). The **technology** consists of a **uniquely engineered assembly** of **electronics**, **sensors** integrated with a micropump, and pneumatics to provide high performance.
***Fig 2: (left) Pneumatic schematic of a standard fluidic system using pressure to move fluids (right) Pneumatic schematic of Fluigent new technology***
### Portable or connected
The technology is powered by an embedded rechargeable battery to facilitate portability. It can support a **wide range of connections** (Wi-Fi, BLE, IoT, USB, industrial bus), and embedded protocols. For point-of-care applications, a touch screen can be developed and integrated in our microfluidic micropump based on your needs. A flow sensor can directly be connected to the engineered device.
## Fluigent expertise on microfluidic micropump equals performance
### Unmatched pressure and flow stability
Fluigent’s (patent pending) powerful pressure regulation algorithm is based on physical equations and self-learning routines that offer several benefits for our microfluidic micropump:
- No overshoot/undershoot, allowing for an immediate highly accurate and stable flow
- Useful over a wide pressure or vacuum range (up to 600 mbar, -400 mbar vacuum, standalone pressure/vacuum regulation capability)
- Adapts to any reservoir size
By directly connecting a [flow rate sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/), it is possible to monitor or control flow rate in real time. The algorithm includes a continuous optimization of the parameters that allows it to adapt to the interactions between microfluidic channels in complex situations.
***Fig 3 Pressurization profile of a 50 mL reservoir as a function of time using Fluigents microfluidic micropump technology***
**Fig 4 Fluigents technology connected with a flow rate sensor for pressure based flow control**
### Stop & Go, pressure/vacuum capabilities
When using a gas micropump alone, pressure drops are slow, (see Fig. 5) as compared to Fluigent’s solution with a standalone gas micropump. In fact, the micropump will take more than a minute to reach zero pressure.
***Fig 5 Pressure drop comparison between a standalone micropump and Fluigent microfluidic micropump technology***
**Fig 6 Pressure profile comparison between a micropump equipped with a leakage valve**
Using a pressure leakage or a valve in complement to the pump is a way to circumvent this limitation. With the addition of a pressure leakage component, the pressure drop now takes about 5 seconds (see Fig. 6). However, adding such leakage components influence the overall performance: the maximum pressure that can be reached has now decreased by about 15% (from 375 mbar to 310 mbar illustrated in the graph Fig. 6).
To ensure excellent response time while guaranteeing the best performance, the technology of our microfluidic micropump makes use of proportional valves. Using this engineered solution, pressure drop takes less than a second, and the maximum pressure reachable has not deteriorated (see graph). This allows users to perform operations that require fast response time, or require fast change between applied positive pressure and vacuum.
## Comparing our microfluidic micropump to standard pressure control
**Compact pressure/flow control technology****Standard pressure controllers**
**(e.g. Fluigent PX, P-OEM, F-OEM)****Compactness**– All in one microfluidic micropump for pressure source and control
– Optimized footprintNeed to be connected to an external pressure source and power supply**Pressure/flow stability**Excellent
(~0,3% on the measured value)Excellent
(< 0,1% on the measured value)****Pressure response time****Excellent (a few seconds)Excellent (a few seconds)****Gas flow rate****Up to 2 L/min depending on the model.
Examples:
– 2 L/min using a 0-200 mbar pressure range
– 750 mL/min using 0-380 mbar pressure range
150 mL/min using 0-800 mbar pressure rangeUp to 3.5 L/min depending on the model
Examples:
– 3.5 L/min using Fluigent
F-OEM 0-7000 mbar
– 800 mL/min using Fluigent
F-OEM 0-1000 mbar
– 550 mL/min using Fluigent
PX 0-1000 mbar****Pressure range****– Pressure: Up to 600 mbar (for a single pump)
– Vacuum: Up to -400 mbar– Pressure: Up to 7 bar
– Vacuum: Up to -800 mbar**Lifespan**~ 5 000 h (maintenance can be performed)Lifetime## Related applications that could use a microfluidic micropump
Emerging point of care applications make use of more complex fluidic operations and require compact systems. Our microfluidic micropump is fit for such applications as it is fully connected and provides excellent fluidic performance while being compact.
- **Life Sciences – Point of Care testing and diagnostics**
Point of Care (PoC) testing allows one to diagnose diseases at or near the patient site. Point of care tests such as blood analysis, glucose monitoring, infectious disease testing, cholesterol testing, or cardiac markers are marketed1. A new generation of point of care diagnostic devices has been recently developed for providing higher sensitivity diagnostics, such as nucleic acid amplification tests. These often require more bulky equipment as the internal technology is more advanced.
- **Environmental – water and soil analysis**
Continuous monitoring of water resources such as freshwater, seawater, and, in particular, wastewater and drinking water, for human and animal consumption, is essential2. Conventional water monitoring is based on laboratory instruments that are generally sophisticated and expensive. As the equipment is not easily portable, samples can be compromised during travel. As an alternative, microfluidic-based portable devices have been developed for on-site analysis. Our engineered microfluidic micropump tackles these limitations by bringing a cost-effective solution with a highly reduced footprint.
- **Other Industrial applications**
Complex pressure and flow distribution can be eliminated as the unit can be placed at the location where pressure, vacuum, or flow control is needed.
## Related products
- [
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
- [
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## Expertise and resources
- [### The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [### Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [### Key considerations for fluidic system integration
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
## References
1\. Sachdeva, S., Davis, R. W. & Saha, A. K. Microfluidic Point-of-Care Testing: Commercial Landscape and Future Directions. *Front. Bioeng. Biotechnol.* **8**, 1–14 (2021).
2\. Janire, S., Raquel, C.-C., R\_oisín, M. O. & Lourdes, Basabe-Desmonts Fernando, B.-L. Microfluidics and materials for smart water monitoring: A review. **1186**, (2021).
**Websites:**
---
### [Microfluidics in Food Industry: Food Testing & Agriculture](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/)
**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What are the advantages of Microfluidics in Food Industry?
The rapidly growing global population demands more advanced technologies in food processing to produce [**more functional and safer food**](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/).
### Emulsion production
In foods, the most common application of microfluidic systems is in the [**preparation of emulsions**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/). These provide accurate control over droplet size and the shape of internal structures. Microfluidic devices can be used to produce different types of microstructures depending on the final product, adding some characteristics such as texture or dispersion.
### Microfluidics for Food Analysis
Food safety analysis is important to control food contamination and quality. Constructing effective methods for fast and accurate food safety sensing on-site is needed. Microfluidic systems can quickly and accurately analyze food samples for contaminants, pathogens, chemical residues, and other quality control parameters, reducing the time required for testing and analysis.
### Microfluidics for agriculture
Microfluidics in food industry can be used for precision agriculture, allowing for the precise and controlled delivery of nutrients, fertilizers, and pesticides to crops, minimizing waste, and maximizing crop yields.
On-site soil analysis can also be performed thanks to microfluidics, allowing to rapidly identify soil parameters such as nutrient concentration. This allows for better fertilizer consumption and less unnecessary soil pollution.
### Industrial applications
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
### Research applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
## Microfluidics to recognize fake honey
**Doing PhD with Fluigent 2021: Research on Honey by Daniel Kraus \[Jena, Germany\]**
One example of using Microfluidics in Food Industry:
One of our PhD students Daniel is doing his postgraduate research on honey at the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology. Using the **microfluidic set-up, including microfluidic chip and Fluigent pressure pumps**, Daniel can **examine the pollens** to find out whether the origin of honey is natural or faked.
The high-throughput microfluidic technique enables honey particles to pass with the **same velocity** through the microfluidic channel, which makes for a **better more efficient analysis** that goes beyond the state of the art.
## Related products
### Research field
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
### Industrial field
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Expertise & resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos### DROPLET STARTER package – Make DROPLETS within minutes!
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/droplet-starter-package-make-droplets-within-minutes/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Generating a water emulsion in an oil solution using a droplet generator chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/production-of-water-in-oil-emulsions-using-a-droplet-generator-chip/)
## Looking for another market?
From the life sciences to the food industry, many applications require the use of fluids driven at flow rates from nanoliters to milliliters per minute. At such low flows, the success of these applications strongly depends on the level of control and automation of the fluidic operations.
These applications require flow control systems that are adapted for ensuring their success.
[All Market & Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/)
[Go to research field](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
[Go to industrial field](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/)
---
### [Microfluidic Markets & Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What are the main advantages of microfluidics?
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/) refers to the scientific field dedicated to managing and directing fluids, typically within the microliter (10-6) to picoliter (10-12) range, through intricate networks of channels ranging in size from tens to hundreds of micrometers. The discipline emerged in the early 1990s and has experienced explosive growth since then, becoming an indispensable tool in life science research and broader biotechnology applications.
Microfluidics holds many significant advantages that make it an attractive option for microfluidic markets. Its ability to operate at such small volumes can significantly reduce the consumption of reagents and samples, while also shortening experiment times and cutting overall costs for microfluidic applications.
## What are the different microfluidic technologies existing?
Nowadays, [three types of microfluidic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) exist.
### Peristaltic pumps
These pumps use a series of rollers or squeezing elements to compress a flexible tubing, creating a pulsatile flow into the microfluidic device.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
### Syringe pumps
These pumps use a syringe driven by a motor or a manual control to deliver continuous fluid flow into the microfluidic device.
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
### Pressure controllers
They use compressed air or gas to generate targeted pressure and drive the fluid flow in the microfluidic device.
Each of these microfluidic pumps has its [advantages and disadvantages](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-flow-control-technologies-strengths-and-weaknesses/), and the choice of the pump depends on the specific requirements of the application and microfluidic markets, such as flow rate, accuracy, precision, compatibility, and ease of use.
The main advantage of [pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/) are their unmatched performance in terms of [stability](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/), accuracy and [response time](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/).
- [
### Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### MFCS™ series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### F-OEM
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
- [
### Fluigent PX
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
## Life Science
Microfluidics is the technology of choice for many applications in the[ **life sciences** ](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/)as it provides the ability to control cellular microenvironments with high spatiotemporal precision and presents cells with mechanical and biochemical signals in a more physiologically relevant context. Microfluidic markets & applications include super-resolution microscopy, (single) cell analysis, cell culture under perfusion or organs on a chip, molecular diagnostics, and more.
[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/)
## Pharmaceutics
Microfluidic technologies are expected to play an important part in future nanomedicine manufacturing and administration of therapeutic products and diagnostics as it meets the demand for **high-quality and meticulously regulated medical products**. Discover the main microfluidic markets in pharmaceutics, including drug development, drug screening, drug encapsulation and more below.
[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/)
## Food Industry
The rapidly growing global population demands more advanced technologies in food processing to **produce more and safer food products**. [**Microfluidic droplet generation systems**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) are currently used for food processing, emulsification, and food safety measurements2. Discover the microfluidic markets in the food industry.
[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/)
## Cosmetics
The **highly uniform and large droplets** produced during a microfluidic emulsion can sometimes provide a sensual component to existing cosmetics.. In the case of preparing a monodisperse emulsion with a diameter of 1 mm, giant droplets can be visually pleasing3. From the perspective of performance and applicability, technological advances in engineering emulsion interfaces are strongly required. Discover the microfluidic markets for cosmetics.
[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/cosmetics/)
## Water Analysis
Microfluidic devices provide a way to perform analyses at remote locations, enabling in situ measurement at the point of sampling. **Reduced analysis times**, **sensitivity improvements, selectivity enhancement, and high repeatability** are advantages of microfluidic devices when integrated into miniaturized chemical systems. Discover the microfluidic markets for water analysis.
[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/water-treatment/)
## Fluigent helps researchers and industry partners by providing best-in-class research instruments as well as industrial products and systems combined with strong expertise in fluid management.
### Research Solutions
Our innovative, pressure-based microfluidic controllers are compatible with lab-on-a-chip devices and a wide variety of microfluidic technologies that will allow you to focus on the science for your microfluidic applications, not on the setup.
[Learn more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/)### Industrial OEM Solutions
****The way to automate your fluid handling for industrial applications.****
We offer components, integration, and on-demand engineering services based on our pressure and microfluidic knowledge and expertise.
[Learn more](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/)
## Resources & Expertises
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
## References
1\. *Microfluidics Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Technology (Medical, Non-medical), By Application (Lab-on-a-chip, Organs-on-chips), By Material (Polymer, Silicon, Glass, PDMS), By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2021 – 2028*. https://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/microfluidics-market (2019).
2\. He, S., Joseph, N., Feng, S., Jellicoe, M. & Raston, C. L. Application of microfluidic technology in food processing. *Food and Function* vol. 11 5726–5737 Preprint at https://doi.org/10.1039/d0fo01278e (2020).
3\. Are ‘microfluidics’ the next big beauty trend? *Fashion Network* (2017).
4\. Park, D., Kim, H. & Kim, J. W. Microfluidic production of monodisperse emulsions for cosmetics. *Biomicrofluidics* vol. 15 Preprint at https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0057733 (2021).
---
### [DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
**Published:** October 18, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
**This algorithm is integrated into every custom project and users will benefit from Fluigent’s expertise throughout the experiment.**
- **Unmatched performance:** excellent accuracy, stability and responsiveness
- **Versatile:** easy switch between pressure and flow rate control
- **No manual calibration needed:** automated adjustment of the parameters for lasting efficiency
## Microfluidic flow rate control algorithm : technology description
*Fig 1 Progress of Fluigents algorithms*
Fluigent’s first software (2010) had an integrated PID: a control loop mechanism that maintains a desired flow rate with minimal delay and overshoot by altering the pressure applied to a setup.
Fluigent’s first flow rate control scheme (2011) was improved to include an automated calibration procedure to calculate optimized PID parameters according to the hydrodynamic resistance of the system, i.e. the microfluidic channel dimension and the viscosity of the liquid. This meant that manual adjustments for flow rate response time and stability were no longer necessary to control the flow.
As microfluidic design increased in complexity, finding the calculation of the required pressure for the desired flow rate became difficult. The Flow Rate Control Module, or FRCM (2012), was the first microfluidic flow control algorithm that permitted pressure-based flow rate control on complex microfluidic channel networks like multi-channel setups, by predicting and automatically adjusting pressure(s) to reach the flow rate set point(s). The algorithm internally modeled a microfluidic system with any design and linked each flow rate to a combination of pressure orders. It was useful for droplet generators, double encapsulation systems or mass parallel systems.
### Fluigent’s latest microfluidic flow rate control algorithm technology update (FASTAB2): Direct Flow Control
The DFC “self-learning” algorithm (2017) offers two major upgrades: (1) no calibration is needed and (2) it performs in a system where hydrodynamic resistance evolves along the experiment. This improvement to the auto tuned PID and the FRCM includes a continuous adjustment of the algorithm parameters based on the current response time and stability. Its improved reactivity allows it to counter the interactions between microfluidic channels in complex situations. Advantages of direct flow control algorithm include:
- Adapting to experiments with resistance variations like cell culture growth: the flow rate control algorithm, being a microfluidic self-learning algorithm, adjusts its model to the setup resistance in real-time
- Saving samples or reagents: reduced time to reach desired flow rate uses less liquid during a calibration step
- Saving time: no calibration required and a reduced settling time
*Fig 2 Operating principle of the microfluidic flow rate control algorithm Both pressure and flow rates can be measured and the DFC is able to automatically adjust pressures to reach the pressure or flow rate set points*
## Microfluidic flow rate control algorithm performances
Optimizing an algorithm is time consuming. In microfluidic liquid handling, stability (no unbounded oscillation) and response time are prerequisites. Fluigent’s new direct flow control algorithm aims at achieving the best performances for each, providing a completely automated microfluidc system.
### Maintaining the flow stability
When used with flow rate sensors, [microfluidic pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products-zh-hans/customized-products-zh-hans/) maintain a highly stable flow rate. This achieves the same functionality as a [syringe pump](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/), with a more stable and reliable output for flow control. Increasing the stability of the flow rate improves the reproducibility of microfluidic experiments. This factor is essential in biological and chemical applications for reliable results. Flow rate stability is also essential to [control cell shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/): the tangential component of frictional forces generated at a surface by the flow of a viscous fluid, as it affects the physiology of the cells.
***Fig 3 Comparison of flow rate stability between Fluigent flow controller using our microfluidic flow rate control algorithm and syringe pumps***
**Fig 4 Comparison of response time between Fluigent pressure control and syringe pumps**
### Providing excellent response time
Response time is the time required to reach an ordered value given an error margin. Pressure based Microfluidic Flow Controllers display major benefits in terms of [responsiveness](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/) compared to other types of liquid handling solutions such as syringe or peristaltic pumps. The Flow Controllers reduce the elapsed time between the command and the desired flow rate and prevent the waste of samples. Thanks to our FASTAB2 patented flow control algorithm, the response time to reach the ordered value with 5% error is 2 seconds, which is more than twice as fast as the FRCM. This technology is over 10 times faster than the most advanced [syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/) available on the market, as shown on the graphs below.
### Pressure & liquid flow control
By combining both pressure and flow rate control/monitoring, Fluigent overcomes one major drawback of pressure pumps: the lack of having optimized direct control of flow rates. In just one click, a Fluigent pump can switch from pressure to flow rate control. This allows users to control either parameter with the best flow stability and response time available on the market, without the need for additional settings and complex microfluidic channel configurations. Unlike syringe pumps, flow sensors and Fluigent’s microfluidic flow control algorithm can predict pressure values and apply set flow rates.
**Fig 5 Flow rate control response to 5µLmin increasing steps each 30 seconds**
## Related applications that could use our microfluidic flow rate control algorithm
### Drug testing
Flow rate control is used for determining the time of exposure or for applying a chemical concentration gradient. Compared to conventional [drug screening methods](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/), a microfluidic-based system presents advantages in terms of sample consumption, responsiveness and cost. \[1\]\[2\]
### Droplet microfluidics
The flow rate determines droplet size, frequency, and monodispersity. With the level of control provided by a microfluidic flow control algorithm, applications like digital PCR or single-cell encapsulation within droplets have emerged. \[3\]\[4\]
### Cell culture experiments
High flow rates can lead to shear-stress, which impacts cell shape and growth, because dragging frictional force stimulates the release of vasoactive substances and modifies gene expression, cell metabolism and cell morphology. \[5\]\[6\] For more information on shear stress and its impact on cell viability, see our [**mechanical stimulation expertise webpage**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/). If you want to calculate the applied shear stress with your system, see our [**shear stress calculator**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/resources-support/support-tools-zh-hans/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/).
## Related products
## Related content
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References
\[1\] L. Yu, M. C. W. Chen, K. C. Cheung, “Droplet-based microfluidic system for multicellular tumor spheroid formation and anticancer drug testing”, *Lab on a Chip*, 2010
\[2\] Q. Sun, S. H. Tan, Q. Chen, R. Ran, Y. Hui, D. Chen, C. Zhao, “Microfluidic Formation of Coculture Tumor Spheroids with Stromal Cells As a Novel 3D Tumor Model for Drug Testing”, *ACS Biometer. Sci. Eng*., 2018
\[3\] R. Seemann, M. Brinkmann, T. Pfohl, S. Herminghaus, “Droplet based microfluidics”, *Reports on Progress in Physics*, 2012
\[4\] G. Pohl, leM. Shih, “Principle and applications of digital PCR”, *Expert Rev. Mol. Diagn.*, 2004
\[5\] N. Ashammakhi, R. Nasiri, N. R. de Barros, P. Tebon, J. Thakor, M. Goudie, A. Shamloo, M. G. Martin, A. Khademhosseni, “Gut-on-a-chip: Current progress and future opportunities”, *Biomaterials*, 2020
\[6\] S. Halldorsson, E. Lucumi, R. Gómez-Sjöberg, R. M. T. Fleming, “Advantages and challenges of microfluidic cell culture in polydimethylsiloxane devices”, *Biosens Bioelectron*, 2015
---
### [DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
**Published:** October 18, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
**This algorithm is integrated into every custom project and users will benefit from Fluigent’s expertise throughout the experiment.**
- **Unmatched performance:** excellent accuracy, stability and responsiveness
- **Versatile:** easy switch between pressure and flow rate control
- **No manual calibration needed:** automated adjustment of the parameters for lasting efficiency
## Microfluidic flow rate control algorithm : technology description
*Fig 1 Progress of Fluigents algorithms*
Fluigent’s first software (2010) had an integrated PID: a control loop mechanism that maintains a desired flow rate with minimal delay and overshoot by altering the pressure applied to a setup.
Fluigent’s first flow rate control scheme (2011) was improved to include an automated calibration procedure to calculate optimized PID parameters according to the hydrodynamic resistance of the system, i.e. the microfluidic channel dimension and the viscosity of the liquid. This meant that manual adjustments for flow rate response time and stability were no longer necessary to control the flow.
As microfluidic design increased in complexity, finding the calculation of the required pressure for the desired flow rate became difficult. The Flow Rate Control Module, or FRCM (2012), was the first microfluidic flow control algorithm that permitted pressure-based flow rate control on complex microfluidic channel networks like multi-channel setups, by predicting and automatically adjusting pressure(s) to reach the flow rate set point(s). The algorithm internally modeled a microfluidic system with any design and linked each flow rate to a combination of pressure orders. It was useful for droplet generators, double encapsulation systems or mass parallel systems.
### Fluigent’s latest microfluidic flow rate control algorithm technology update (FASTAB2): Direct Flow Control
The DFC “self-learning” algorithm (2017) offers two major upgrades: (1) no calibration is needed and (2) it performs in a system where hydrodynamic resistance evolves along the experiment. This improvement to the auto tuned PID and the FRCM includes a continuous adjustment of the algorithm parameters based on the current response time and stability. Its improved reactivity allows it to counter the interactions between microfluidic channels in complex situations. Advantages of direct flow control algorithm include:
- Adapting to experiments with resistance variations like cell culture growth: the flow rate control algorithm, being a microfluidic self-learning algorithm, adjusts its model to the setup resistance in real-time
- Saving samples or reagents: reduced time to reach desired flow rate uses less liquid during a calibration step
- Saving time: no calibration required and a reduced settling time
*Fig 2 Operating principle of the microfluidic flow rate control algorithm Both pressure and flow rates can be measured and the DFC is able to automatically adjust pressures to reach the pressure or flow rate set points*
## Microfluidic flow rate control algorithm performances
Optimizing an algorithm is time consuming. In microfluidic liquid handling, stability (no unbounded oscillation) and response time are prerequisites. Fluigent’s new direct flow control algorithm aims at achieving the best performances for each, providing a completely automated microfluidc system.
### Maintaining the flow stability
When used with flow rate sensors, [microfluidic pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/) maintain a highly stable flow rate. This achieves the same functionality as a [syringe pump](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/), with a more stable and reliable output for flow control. Increasing the stability of the flow rate improves the reproducibility of microfluidic experiments. This factor is essential in biological and chemical applications for reliable results. Flow rate stability is also essential to [control cell shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/): the tangential component of frictional forces generated at a surface by the flow of a viscous fluid, as it affects the physiology of the cells.
***Fig 3 Comparison of flow rate stability between Fluigent flow controller using our microfluidic flow rate control algorithm and syringe pumps***
**Fig 4 Comparison of response time between Fluigent pressure control and syringe pumps**
### Providing excellent response time
Response time is the time required to reach an ordered value given an error margin. Pressure based Microfluidic Flow Controllers display major benefits in terms of [responsiveness](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/) compared to other types of liquid handling solutions such as syringe or peristaltic pumps. The Flow Controllers reduce the elapsed time between the command and the desired flow rate and prevent the waste of samples. Thanks to our FASTAB2 patented flow control algorithm, the response time to reach the ordered value with 5% error is 2 seconds, which is more than twice as fast as the FRCM. This technology is over 10 times faster than the most advanced [syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/) available on the market, as shown on the graphs below.
### Pressure & liquid flow control
By combining both pressure and flow rate control/monitoring, Fluigent overcomes one major drawback of pressure pumps: the lack of having optimized direct control of flow rates. In just one click, a Fluigent pump can switch from pressure to flow rate control. This allows users to control either parameter with the best flow stability and response time available on the market, without the need for additional settings and complex microfluidic channel configurations. Unlike syringe pumps, flow sensors and Fluigent’s microfluidic flow control algorithm can predict pressure values and apply set flow rates.
**Fig 5 Flow rate control response to 5µLmin increasing steps each 30 seconds**
## Related applications that could use our microfluidic flow rate control algorithm
### Drug testing
Flow rate control is used for determining the time of exposure or for applying a chemical concentration gradient. Compared to conventional [drug screening methods](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/), a microfluidic-based system presents advantages in terms of sample consumption, responsiveness and cost. \[1\]\[2\]
### Droplet microfluidics
The flow rate determines droplet size, frequency, and monodispersity. With the level of control provided by a microfluidic flow control algorithm, applications like digital PCR or single-cell encapsulation within droplets have emerged. \[3\]\[4\]
### Cell culture experiments
High flow rates can lead to shear-stress, which impacts cell shape and growth, because dragging frictional force stimulates the release of vasoactive substances and modifies gene expression, cell metabolism and cell morphology. \[5\]\[6\] For more information on shear stress and its impact on cell viability, see our [**mechanical stimulation expertise webpage**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/). If you want to calculate the applied shear stress with your system, see our [**shear stress calculator**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/).
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Management Unit
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
- [
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
- [
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## Related content
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References
\[1\] L. Yu, M. C. W. Chen, K. C. Cheung, “Droplet-based microfluidic system for multicellular tumor spheroid formation and anticancer drug testing”, *Lab on a Chip*, 2010
\[2\] Q. Sun, S. H. Tan, Q. Chen, R. Ran, Y. Hui, D. Chen, C. Zhao, “Microfluidic Formation of Coculture Tumor Spheroids with Stromal Cells As a Novel 3D Tumor Model for Drug Testing”, *ACS Biometer. Sci. Eng*., 2018
\[3\] R. Seemann, M. Brinkmann, T. Pfohl, S. Herminghaus, “Droplet based microfluidics”, *Reports on Progress in Physics*, 2012
\[4\] G. Pohl, leM. Shih, “Principle and applications of digital PCR”, *Expert Rev. Mol. Diagn.*, 2004
\[5\] N. Ashammakhi, R. Nasiri, N. R. de Barros, P. Tebon, J. Thakor, M. Goudie, A. Shamloo, M. G. Martin, A. Khademhosseni, “Gut-on-a-chip: Current progress and future opportunities”, *Biomaterials*, 2020
\[6\] S. Halldorsson, E. Lucumi, R. Gómez-Sjöberg, R. M. T. Fleming, “Advantages and challenges of microfluidic cell culture in polydimethylsiloxane devices”, *Biosens Bioelectron*, 2015
---
### [Liquid Stirring Solutions](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/liquid-stirring-solutions/)
**Published:** February 3, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
**This technology can be integrated in any custom project. Benefit from the best performance and Fluigent expertise for your project.**
- **Tailor-made:** different types of motion, intensities of stress, volumes handled
- **Compatible with temperature control:** stirring and heating/cooling modules are easily combined
- **Versatile:** can be integrated into Fluigent’s protocols and communicate with other microfluidic setup modules
## Liquid/liquid dispersion modules: technology description
Fluigent has developed fluid agitation solutions based on several different technologies. The stirring module can be coupled to a [**temperature control module**](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/), as both require a platform to which the reservoirs are attached. Since control of these components is integrated into the software, Fluigent systems allow the user to manipulate certain parameters. For example, three different speeds can be implemented, allowing for different modes of liquid stirring with the same module.
**Fig 1 Integration of Fluigents fluid stirring module with a heatingcooling module**
### Magnetic induction stirrer: a motor-less agitation method
The technology designed by Fluigent works similarly to standard magnetic stirrers generally used in chemistry applications, and consists of two elements: a magnetic stir bar (immersed in the fluid) and a coil (placed under the container, off-center). When AC current flows through the coil, the magnetic field is alternately generated, turned off, and inverted, causing the stir bar to vibrate or spin and stirring the liquid in the sample. By adjusting the current, this method can provide gentle to strong agitation. This magnetic induction stirrer presents a number of advantages over traditional motorized magnetic stirrers: it does not generate heat that may interfere with temperature-sensitive experiments and it is quiet and compact, making it readily adaptable to the small volumes used in microfluidics. It is the preferred technology to integrate fluid stirring into a very compact system.
**Fig 2 Magnetic induction stirrer principle front and top views**
### Orbital shaker: a stable platform for consistent vial-to-vial homogeneity
Fluigent has also developed contactless fluid agitation technologies. Orbital shakers usually consist of a large plate that provides soft orbital motion in a horizontal plane. However, the movement can be implemented differently so that the platform oscillates with any desired trajectory. Unlike the magnetic stirrer, this solution is non-intrusive and can consistently handle multiple reservoirs with the same device. The benefits of the orbital shaker compared to other shakers like the platform shaker or the vortexer are that it generates no vibrations, produces less heat, and is able to aerate the samples and evenly distribute cells. This technology has been developed for customers who do not need much capacity but require external sterile liquid stirring that avoids sedimentation and cell damage. The platform is also optimized to integrate temperature control.
*Fig 3 Orbital shaker principle*
### Vortex mixer: a solution for intense shear stress
*Fig 4 Vortexer principle*
The vortex mixer is similar to the orbital shaker in terms of its motion. The differences are orbital diameter, agitation frequency range and means of contact. While the orbital shaker usually has a larger diameter and a lower frequency, the vortex mixer typically has a smaller diameter and a higher frequency. As a result, vortex mixers allow for more intense liquid stirring. In addition, vials are placed on a plate on an orbital shaker, whereas the vortexer has a cup-shaped, slightly off-center rubber piece vertically attached to the motor drive shaft that transmits its rotary movement to the vial or the foam rack with several tubes attached to it. This creates a vortex in the liquid.
## Comparison between liquid agitation technologies
Each method has its own advantages that make it more appropriate for certain applications. Here are some variables that may be taken into account when choosing the best liquid stirring solution for your project: \[1\]
**Magnetic stirrer****Orbital plate****Vortex mixer****Agitation level**Locally gentle to intense shearIntermediate-level stressMost intense overall stress**Frequency range (rpm)**60-140060-300500-3200**Invasiveness**Invasive but the stir bar is coated (PTFE) to be chemically inertNon invasiveNon invasive**Durability**No moving external parts subject to breaking or wearing out Motorized mechanical deviceMotorized mechanical device****Noise level**** QuietNoisyNoisy**Volume**Compact, useful for small volumes due to the size of the bar and the absence of a motor Plate of adjustable size that can fit multiple reservoirsRack of adjustable size that can fit multiple reservoirs****Used for**** Low-viscosity laboratory mixingHomogeneous distribution of cells and nutrients throughout the flaskVigorous mixing, resuspension of samples## Microfluidic applications related to liquid/liquid dispersion
**Drug production**
Homogeneous mixing is a prerequisite in biopharmaceutical manufacturing operations like drug production. These operations are performed in stirred vessels that use magnetic stirrers because they are gentle enough to prevent protein damage despite the shear stress they can cause. Magnetic stirring can also be used to produce drug nanosuspensions to enhance their dissolution rate and improve safety for the patient. \[2\]\[3\]
**Cell culture**
The cultivation of mammalian cells in suspension is essential for protein synthesis in clinical and pharmaceutical research. The traditional cultivation method uses spinner flasks, but they require substantial effort to clean and sterilize. Another approach is to agitate Erlenmeyer flasks or a multiwell plate on an orbital shaker. This method allows for superior cell growth, high reproducibility in performance, good cell viability, low cost, and easy cleaning and handling of the bottles, making it a viable liquid stirring solution for the culture of mammalian cells in suspension. \[4\]\[5\]
**DNA extraction for PCR**
Many applications of DNA technology, such as detection of fungal pathogens by PCR, require extraction methods that isolate uncontaminated DNA suitable for amplifications. Several methods are available to achieve this, and most of them have a reagent mixing step that uses a vortex mixer for maximum efficiency. \[6\]\[7\]
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Management Unit
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
- [
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
- [
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
## Expertise and resources
- [
### Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads
Microbead-based microfluidics is a powerful technique for the generation of organoid cultures in 3D matrices to mimic the complex in-vivo environment that supports cell physiological and pathological behaviors.
Learn more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [
### High-throughput cell DNA screening using digital PCR
Thanks to droplet microfluidic, Michael Ryckelynck and his team are able to isolate single DNA molecules and analyze the enzymes and proteins resulting from their expression.
Learn more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/high-throughput-cell-dna-screening-using-digital-pcr/)
## References
\[1\] G. Bai, J. S. Bee, J. G. Biddlecombe, Q. Chen, W. T. Leach, “Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) insights into agitation stress methods in biopharmaceutical development”, *International Journal of Pharmaceutics,* 2012
\[2\] T. Ladner, S. Odenwald, K. Kerls, G. Zieres, A. Boillon, J. Boeuf, “CFD Supported Investigation of Shear Induced by Bottom-Mounted Magnetic Stirrer in Monoclonal Antibody Formulation”, *Pharmaceutical Research*, 2018
\[3\] P. Kocbek, S. Baumgartner, J. Kristl, “Preparation and evalutation of nanosuspensions for enhancing the dissolution of poorly soluble drugs”, *International Journal of Pharmaceutics*, 2006
\[4\] M. Micheletti, T. Barrett, S. D. Doig, F. Baganz, M. S. Levy, J. M. Woodley, G. J. Lye, “Fluid mixing in shaken bioreactors: Implications for scale-up predictions from microlitre-scale microbial and mammalian cell cultures”, *Chemical Engineering Science*, 2006
\[5\] N. Muller, P. Girard, D. L. Hacker, M. Jordan, F. M. Wurm, “Orbital Shaker Technology for the Cultivation of Mammalian Cells in Suspension”, *Biotechnology and Bioengineering*, 2005
\[6\] J. C. Colosi, B. A. Schaal, “Tissue grinding with ball bearings and vortex mixer for DNA extraction”, *Nucleic Acids research*, 1993
\[7\] D. N. Fredricks, C. Smith, A. Meier, “Comparison of Six DNA Methods for Recovery of Fungal DNA as Assessed by Quantitative PCR”, *Journal of Clinical Microbiology*, 2005
---
### [Liquid Stirring Solutions](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/liquid-stirring-solutions/)
**Published:** February 3, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
**This technology can be integrated in any custom project. Benefit from the best performance and Fluigent expertise for your project.**
- **Tailor-made:** different types of motion, intensities of stress, volumes handled
- **Compatible with temperature control:** stirring and heating/cooling modules are easily combined
- **Versatile:** can be integrated into Fluigent’s protocols and communicate with other microfluidic setup modules
## Liquid/liquid dispersion modules: technology description
Fluigent has developed fluid agitation solutions based on several different technologies. The stirring module can be coupled to a [**temperature control module**](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/), as both require a platform to which the reservoirs are attached. Since control of these components is integrated into the software, Fluigent systems allow the user to manipulate certain parameters. For example, three different speeds can be implemented, allowing for different modes of liquid stirring with the same module.
**Fig 1 Integration of Fluigents fluid stirring module with a heatingcooling module**
### Magnetic induction stirrer: a motor-less agitation method
The technology designed by Fluigent works similarly to standard magnetic stirrers generally used in chemistry applications, and consists of two elements: a magnetic stir bar (immersed in the fluid) and a coil (placed under the container, off-center). When AC current flows through the coil, the magnetic field is alternately generated, turned off, and inverted, causing the stir bar to vibrate or spin and stirring the liquid in the sample. By adjusting the current, this method can provide gentle to strong agitation. This magnetic induction stirrer presents a number of advantages over traditional motorized magnetic stirrers: it does not generate heat that may interfere with temperature-sensitive experiments and it is quiet and compact, making it readily adaptable to the small volumes used in microfluidics. It is the preferred technology to integrate fluid stirring into a very compact system.
**Fig 2 Magnetic induction stirrer principle front and top views**
### Orbital shaker: a stable platform for consistent vial-to-vial homogeneity
Fluigent has also developed contactless fluid agitation technologies. Orbital shakers usually consist of a large plate that provides soft orbital motion in a horizontal plane. However, the movement can be implemented differently so that the platform oscillates with any desired trajectory. Unlike the magnetic stirrer, this solution is non-intrusive and can consistently handle multiple reservoirs with the same device. The benefits of the orbital shaker compared to other shakers like the platform shaker or the vortexer are that it generates no vibrations, produces less heat, and is able to aerate the samples and evenly distribute cells. This technology has been developed for customers who do not need much capacity but require external sterile liquid stirring that avoids sedimentation and cell damage. The platform is also optimized to integrate temperature control.
*Fig 3 Orbital shaker principle*
### Vortex mixer: a solution for intense shear stress
*Fig 4 Vortexer principle*
The vortex mixer is similar to the orbital shaker in terms of its motion. The differences are orbital diameter, agitation frequency range and means of contact. While the orbital shaker usually has a larger diameter and a lower frequency, the vortex mixer typically has a smaller diameter and a higher frequency. As a result, vortex mixers allow for more intense liquid stirring. In addition, vials are placed on a plate on an orbital shaker, whereas the vortexer has a cup-shaped, slightly off-center rubber piece vertically attached to the motor drive shaft that transmits its rotary movement to the vial or the foam rack with several tubes attached to it. This creates a vortex in the liquid.
## Comparison between liquid agitation technologies
Each method has its own advantages that make it more appropriate for certain applications. Here are some variables that may be taken into account when choosing the best liquid stirring solution for your project: \[1\]
**Magnetic stirrer****Orbital plate****Vortex mixer****Agitation level**Locally gentle to intense shearIntermediate-level stressMost intense overall stress**Frequency range (rpm)**60-140060-300500-3200**Invasiveness**Invasive but the stir bar is coated (PTFE) to be chemically inertNon invasiveNon invasive**Durability**No moving external parts subject to breaking or wearing out Motorized mechanical deviceMotorized mechanical device****Noise level**** QuietNoisyNoisy**Volume**Compact, useful for small volumes due to the size of the bar and the absence of a motor Plate of adjustable size that can fit multiple reservoirsRack of adjustable size that can fit multiple reservoirs****Used for**** Low-viscosity laboratory mixingHomogeneous distribution of cells and nutrients throughout the flaskVigorous mixing, resuspension of samples## Microfluidic applications related to liquid/liquid dispersion
**Drug production**
Homogeneous mixing is a prerequisite in biopharmaceutical manufacturing operations like drug production. These operations are performed in stirred vessels that use magnetic stirrers because they are gentle enough to prevent protein damage despite the shear stress they can cause. Magnetic stirring can also be used to produce drug nanosuspensions to enhance their dissolution rate and improve safety for the patient. \[2\]\[3\]
**Cell culture**
The cultivation of mammalian cells in suspension is essential for protein synthesis in clinical and pharmaceutical research. The traditional cultivation method uses spinner flasks, but they require substantial effort to clean and sterilize. Another approach is to agitate Erlenmeyer flasks or a multiwell plate on an orbital shaker. This method allows for superior cell growth, high reproducibility in performance, good cell viability, low cost, and easy cleaning and handling of the bottles, making it a viable liquid stirring solution for the culture of mammalian cells in suspension. \[4\]\[5\]
**DNA extraction for PCR**
Many applications of DNA technology, such as detection of fungal pathogens by PCR, require extraction methods that isolate uncontaminated DNA suitable for amplifications. Several methods are available to achieve this, and most of them have a reagent mixing step that uses a vortex mixer for maximum efficiency. \[6\]\[7\]
## Related products
## Expertise and resources
## References
\[1\] G. Bai, J. S. Bee, J. G. Biddlecombe, Q. Chen, W. T. Leach, “Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) insights into agitation stress methods in biopharmaceutical development”, *International Journal of Pharmaceutics,* 2012
\[2\] T. Ladner, S. Odenwald, K. Kerls, G. Zieres, A. Boillon, J. Boeuf, “CFD Supported Investigation of Shear Induced by Bottom-Mounted Magnetic Stirrer in Monoclonal Antibody Formulation”, *Pharmaceutical Research*, 2018
\[3\] P. Kocbek, S. Baumgartner, J. Kristl, “Preparation and evalutation of nanosuspensions for enhancing the dissolution of poorly soluble drugs”, *International Journal of Pharmaceutics*, 2006
\[4\] M. Micheletti, T. Barrett, S. D. Doig, F. Baganz, M. S. Levy, J. M. Woodley, G. J. Lye, “Fluid mixing in shaken bioreactors: Implications for scale-up predictions from microlitre-scale microbial and mammalian cell cultures”, *Chemical Engineering Science*, 2006
\[5\] N. Muller, P. Girard, D. L. Hacker, M. Jordan, F. M. Wurm, “Orbital Shaker Technology for the Cultivation of Mammalian Cells in Suspension”, *Biotechnology and Bioengineering*, 2005
\[6\] J. C. Colosi, B. A. Schaal, “Tissue grinding with ball bearings and vortex mixer for DNA extraction”, *Nucleic Acids research*, 1993
\[7\] D. N. Fredricks, C. Smith, A. Meier, “Comparison of Six DNA Methods for Recovery of Fungal DNA as Assessed by Quantitative PCR”, *Journal of Clinical Microbiology*, 2005
---
### [Resources and Support](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/)
**Published:** December 7, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Discover
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Videos Discover
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Discover
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Microfluidic Application Notes Discover
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Microfluidics Case Studies Discover
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- [ Interviews & Testimonials Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Discover
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/)
## A strong expertise on microfluidics
Fluigent was the first company to introduce pressure-driven flow control to the microfluidic research market, as opposed to conventional syringe and peristaltic pumps. As one of the pioneers in microfluidics, we have set the standard in microfluidic control and strive to stay in the forefront of the science. We created content on microfluidics, microfluidic devices, comparison and more to share with the scientific community our knowledge and expertise on this important and relevant growing technology.
[See our expertise](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/)
## Looking for a specific document?
Datasheets, user manuals, Fluigent catalog, and more are available on our Download page.
[See our documents](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/)
---
### [White paper: Organ on Chip](https://www.fluigent.com/white-paper-organ-on-chip/)
**Published:** October 14, 2022
**Author:**
---
### [뉴스](https://www.fluigent.com/company/news/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
---
### [Support & Tools](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Microfluidic calculators
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[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/)
## Downloads
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[Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/)
## Softwares
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Curabitur arcu erat, accumsan id imperdiet et, porttitor at sem.
[Discover](/research/instruments/software-solutions/)
---
## Products
### [Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## ALI cell culture chip features
### High optical clarity
Thanks to its design, the Be-transflow chip can be used for a wide range of applications and with any type of optical microscopy. In addition, its slide format has been chosen to ensure easy and efficient handling, particularly when used under a microscope.
### Easy to connect
The cell culture chip is compatible with all Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers. In fact, it is possible to apply a flowrate connecting any Fluigent’s flow controller with the chip using patented inlet/outlets that avoid the entrance of bubbles to the channel.
### No unspecific absorption
Unlike in other PDMS devices, the air liquid interface cell culture chip is made of lipophobic thermoplastic materials. Due to that feature, it does not present unspecific drug absorption issues. This enables a wide range of applications, including for instance immunohistochemistry with fluorescent detection.
### Cell recovery
The air liquid interface cell cultures used in the Beonchip device can be easily recovered for further experimentation. Indeed, with its channel outlet, the culture medium can then be efficiently isolated and studied, while limiting losses and contamination.
### Easy to implement
The wells of the chip are positioned in standard positions of a 96 well plate to facilitate its use, in particular in automated microscopes. In addition to that, their volume is identical to the one of those wells in order to ease the transition to the transflow device, while avoiding loss of cells or media.
## Air liquid interface culture models
**Perform ALI experiments on a 2D or 3D culture** with automatic culture medium replacement for systems such as epithelial cultures, toxicity tests, absorption test and much more.
*Be Transflow cell culture in 2D or 3D*
*Creation of* a *endothelium epithelium barrier for ALI cell culture in 2D or 3D*
Create the perfect endothelium endothelium-epithelium barrier: Use the upper well for the 2D or 3D epithelial culture and seed the endothelial cells in the perfusable channel underneath. Most common applications are [Blood Brain Barrieer (BBB)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/ "Blood Brain Barrieer (BBB)"), gut, skin, lung and many more.
Crosstalk studies (prototype): Explore the cross-talk of two cultures in an automated and simple way using the Be-Transflow option that connects two wells in the same channel. Most common application are indirect toxicity studies. This air liquid interface cell culture chip is a prototype and is available at a higher price than the normal Be-Transflow.
*Crosstalk studies in 2D or 3D*
## Be-Transflow cell culture chip Applications
Be-Transflow has been designed with ALI in mind. Its an ideal chip for ALI [cell culture](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) and coculture research (skin, cornea, gut, lung). However, its simplicity to use makes it also a very useful tool for any coculture research and crosstalk experiments.
**Epidermis/dermis coculture:** Recreation of the epidermis and dermis in the well of the Be-Transflow device. In the upper part of the image and marked in blue are the nuclei of the keratinocytes (HEKa) forming the epidermis. The HEKa cells were cultured for 21 days in the ALI air liquid interface to create a mature epidermis. Underneath the epidermis we can see the fibroblasts in red embedded in a collagen matrix, mimicking the dermis. The scale bar marks 100 µm.
*Microscopic view of the Epidermisdermis coculture*
*Microscopic view of the bone on chip study*
**Bone on chip:** Beonchip participates in the Eurostars project BONAFIDE. This project is devoted to the production of a human bone-on-chip platform that will simulate bone growth, resorption and remodeling for future evaluation of (anti-osteoporosis) drugs and biomaterials (e.g. bone cements).
The air liquid interface cell culture well represents the catabolic side (bone resorption) where the osteoclasts rest in contact with a bonelike scaffold. The lower channel represents the anabolic side of the bone model. This channel is seeded with osteocytes and osteoblast that form a 2D tissue.
This tissue is mechanically stimulated by the controlled laminar flux applied in the channel, mimicking the physiological environment of the bone. The bone remodeling process is automatically analyzed using image analysis software and biomarker analysis.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Schematic
- Tutorial
**PERFORMANCE**
**Height****Width****Length****Total volume****Channel**375 µm1.5 mm45 mm44 µL**Well**6 mm5.7 mm5.7 mm195 µL**Inlet/outlet**7 mmUNF 1/4″ – 28 UNF 1/4″ – 28 130 µL**Medium reservoir**7 mm3.6 mm8.8 mm185 µL**Membrane pore size**1 µm 1 µm 1 µm 1 µm
**Getting Started**
Cell culture
[](https://youtu.be/fTzss-34fOE)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets BE-Transflow datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-transflow-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic Leakage Testing Pack
A complete and ready-to-use test bench for leakage testing
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-leakage-testing-pack/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Cell Culture, Organ on a chip and Microscopy
---
### [Flow Gradient Chip for 3D Cell Culture](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## What is a flow gradient microfluidic chip ?
A flow gradient chip is a device that combines [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) and electrochemical techniques to create controlled and precise [biochemical environments](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/) for various applications, such as chemical analysis, cell studies, drug testing, and more.
It utilizes electrochemical reactions to create concentration gradients of specific chemical within the microfluidic channels. A concentration gradient is a gradual change in the concentration of a substance across a distance. This gradient is created by introducing different concentrations of the chemicals at different locations on the chip and allowing them to diffuse and mix within the microfluidic channels.
## 3D cell culture models with gradients
Apply an electrochemical gradient to your 3D cell culture. First mix your cells in a liquid hydrogel and seed them into the central chamber. After hydrogel polymerization has been completed, perfuse culture media with different concentrations of a chemical compound through the lateral channels and monitor the effect in real time.
## Be-gradient Features
### High optical clarity
The chip is compatible with any type of optical microscopy and its slide format has been chosen for easy handling under a microscope.
### Easy to Connect
The Beonchip device is compatible with all Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers
### No Unspecific Absorption
Unlike in other PDMS devices, Be -Gradient is made of lipophobic thermoplastic materials and does not present unspecific drug absorption issues. It allows immunohistochemistry with fluorescent detection
### Cell Recovery
The cell cultures used in the chip can be easily recovered for further experimentation.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
[
### Digital High-speed Microscope
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
## Applications with a flow gradient microfluidic chip
The flow gradient chip is a [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) designed with a very specific function in mind, studying a 3D cell culture under an electrochemical gradient. This device allows experiments that can never be done in a petri dish such as the application of nutrient, oxygen or drug gradient, the study of cell migration under these conditions, angiogenesis studies and much more.
### Chemotactic migration studies
The video shows a Multicellular spheroid embedded in collagen and introduced to the microchamber. A gradient of fetal bovine serum (FBS) was established across the central chamber by addition of growth media containing serum into one of the lateral channels.
We observe that spheroids of oral squamous carcinoma cells OSC–19 invade collectively in the direction of the gradient of FBS. This invasion is more directional and aggressive than that observed for individual cells in the same experimental setup. In contrast to spheroids of OSC–19, U87-MG multicellular spheroids migrate as individual cells.
A study of the exposure of spheroids to the chemoattractant shows that the rate of diffusion into the spheroid is slow and thus, the chemoattractant wave engulfs the spheroid before diffusing through it.
The control of the chemotactic gradient across the microchamber, coupled to the ability to observe and closely monitor the system over time, makes BE-Gradient a powerful technique for the study of the chemotactic process. In fact, 3D matrices can mimic in vivo conditions and thus serve as precious tools for cell migration and chemotaxis studies.
In recent years, collective invasion has been proposed as the dominant migration mode during epithelial tumor development. Using the flow gradient chip enables 3D cell culture process to be observed and analyzed in vitro.
### Necrotic core generation within the microdevice
HCT-116 cells were embedded in collagen hydrogel in the central microchamber of the BEOnChip device. 40 million HCT-116 cells/ml were confined in the central microchamber and cell viability was evaluated at the indicated times using calcein (CAM) to stain viable cells green and propidium iodide (PI) to stain dead cells red.
The graphs show CAM or PI fluorescence intensity profile along the delimited region in the images. Position of the pillars is delimited by a grey dashed line. The width of the necrotic core after 6 days was measured as the distance between those positions in the microchamber that reached 50% of the maximum PI fluorescence intensity (blue dashed horizontal line). Necrotic core width was 1643 ± 9 μM, p-value < 0.05. Scale bar is 400 μm.
### Glucose gradient
Green fluorescent glucose analogue (NBDG, 200 μ M) was perfused through the left lateral channel of the flow gradient microfluidic chip and the diffusion profile was studied in the absence or presence of cells.
The graph shows the NBDG diffusion profile across the central microchamber after 90 min, demonstrating that NBDG was able to penetrate through the collagen hydrogel. The diffusion profile slope was calculated in the absence of cells or in the presence of HCT-116 or U-251 MG cells. Scale bar is 400 μm.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Flow gradient Chip Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Schematic
- Tutorial
**Dimensions**
**Height****Width****Length****Total volume****Central chamber**200 µm3 mm4.5 mm6.2 µL**Channel**200 µm1 mm50 mm10 µL**Inlet/outler**7 mmUNF 1/4″ – 28UNF 1/4″ – 28130 µL**Medium Reservoir**5 mm 3.6 m 8.8 mm 185 µL
### 3D cell culture with gradients
**Getting Started**
[](https://youtu.be/ORuIb698L-A)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets BE-Gradient datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-gradient-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- [
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- [
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
BE-Doubleflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
- [
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Be-Transflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
- [
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies with this automated and fully integrated system (Shear stress, flow rate, and pressure control).
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
- [
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Cell Culture, Organ on a chip and Microscopy
---
### [Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the microfluidic cell culture chip
### High optical clarity
The Be-Flow perfused cell culture chip is compatible with all kinds of optical microscopy and has the dimensions of a microscope slide, making it easy to handle under a microscope.
### Easy to connect
Be-Flow is compatible with all Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers and can easily be coupled to flow sensors and valves.
### No unspecific absorption
In contrast to PDMS devices, there is no non-specific absorption of chemical agents with Be-Flow, allowing for precise control of chemicals inside the chip. In fact, the chip is made of lipophobic thermoplastic materials.
### Cell recovery
The cell cultures used in the Be-Flow can be easily recovered for further experimentation.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
## What cell culture models are possible?
Perform 2D culture experiments under flow, controlling mechanical shear stress on the cells in two independent channels.
The Be-Flow perfused cell culture chip allows 2D culture on all walls of the device: top, bottom, etc. (see technical note). Co-culture with monolayers of two different cell types is also possible.
Investigate the effect of circulating particles such as circulating tumor cells, immune system cells, bacteria, fungi, viruses, and many more in a 2D culture.
## What applications are possible with this microfluidic cell culture device?
Be-Flow is the ideal device for research on the effect of flow and mechanical stress on a cell culture. Some of the most common applications include mechanical shear stress studies, interstitial flow on 3D cultures, rolling and adhesion, or circulating particle experiments.
**Vascular research:** Because the Be-flow microfluidic cell culture chip was designed for vascular research, some of the most common applications of the Be-Flow device are related to this field of knowledge. Endothelial vascular cells like HUVEC or HAEC are influenced by various forces in the human body due to blood flow. Using the Be-Flow, it is possible to precisely control shear stress and transmural pressure at the same time. These forces play an important role in the gene expression of HUVEC cells and their proper development. In addition, these forces can be modified to a disease level to study phenomena such as thrombosis, atherosclerosis or rolling adhesion of circulating particles in the endothelial tissues.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Tutorial
**Chip dimensions**
**Height****Width****Length****Total volume****Channel**375 µm1.5 mm43 mm28.5 µL**Inlet/outlet**7 mmUNF 1/4″ – 28 UNF 1/4″ – 28 130 µL**Medium reservoir**5 mm3.6 mm8.8 mm185 µL
**Getting Started**
Coating and cell culture
[](https://youtu.be/LTYK4Ucw7uI)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets BE-flow datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-flow-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- [
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies with this automated and fully integrated system (Shear stress, flow rate, and pressure control).
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Cell Culture, Organ on a chip and Microscopy
---
### [Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of our microfluidic reservoirs
### Pressurize standard lab vials
The P-CAPs fit standard 1.5 mL, 2 mL (eppendorf), 15 mL and 50 mL (falcon) lab vials.
### No wetted material
There is no contact between the metal tube caps and the samples. Only disposable materials are wetted.
### Reservoir accessibility
The vials can be agitated while delivering fluids, without decreasing the flow stability.
### Free sample access
Easy refill using a syringe or a pump, even during the experiment with the multiple port version (50mL only), to make your cell culture or organ-on-a-chip experiments last longer.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Working principle
- Schematic
**OPERATING CONDITIONS**
**Working pressure**Up to 7 bar (up to 4 bar for 50 mL versions)**Working Temperature** -5°C to 60 °C
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Tubing compatibility**1/16” and 1/32” OD capillaries**Pressure inlet connector**4mm OD**Reservoir size compatibility**1.5 mL, 2 mL, 15 mL, 50 mL
**MATERIAL**
**Cap and ring**Aluminium**Seal**NBR**Speed fit**Nickel-plated brass
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
Pressure controllers such as MFCS™ series or LineUp™ series instruments allow for pressurization of vials to handle fluids.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Cambridge: Microfluidic GUV production and testing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### P-CAP 2 mL tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/p-cap-2ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### P-CAP 15 mL tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/p-cap-15ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### P-CAP 50 mL tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/p-cap-50ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Pressure Control Reservoirs
---
### [Airtight pressurized bottle caps](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/bottle-cap-series/)
**Published:** February 1, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features
### Pressurize standard lab bottles
The Bottle-CAP is compatible with all standard lab bottles with a GL-45 thread. This allows for handling of large volumes of liquids (>1L), with a refill option to make your experiments last even longer.
### Pressure compatibility
The pressurized bottle cap can support pressures up to 2 bar. We strongly recommend that you not exceed this pressure.
### Reservoir accessibility
The Bottle-CAP can be heated while handling the fluids, and is compatible with autoclaving and magnetic agitation.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
## What is bottle pressure?
In the context of microfluidics, “bottle pressure” refers to the internal pressure of the bottle. In other words, it is the force exerted by the fluids contained in the bottle.
This pressure can depend on different parameters, including not only the type of fluid but also the temperature and volume inside the bottle.
In microfluidic experiments, it is often useful to regulate this pressure in order to control the flow rate and behavior of the fluid in the setup. This can be done using pressure-based flow controllers from Fluigent, for example, as well as pressure control bottle caps.
The bottle pressure and the pressure exerted by the flow controller are two different things: the bottle pressure refers to the inherent pressure inside the bottle and the pressure exerted by the flow controller is the pressure needed to handle the fluid. The second type of pressure can nevertheless have an influence on the first.
## How does pressure work with pressurized bottle caps?
The bottle caps are equipped with two main components: a pressure-based valve and a pressure chamber. The valve allows you to control the fluid and its flow, while the pressure chamber helps to control the pressure.
A pressure-based flow controller allows you to pressurize the bottle by increasing the pressure in the chamber, which then causes the valve to open by the action of a force. The fluid will then be able to flow from the bottle to the external circuit by passing through the pressure control bottle cap. Conversely, by reducing the pressure, the force on the valve decreases, the valve closes and the flow of fluid stops.
Fluigent bottle caps provide a convenient and efficient method for controlling fluid flow in microfluidic setups, offering precise pressure-based regulation to achieve the desired experimental conditions.
## Applying pressure with pressure control bottle caps
To apply pressure to a bottle using the bottle cap, you must first ensure that the cap is properly sealing the bottle. Then the cap has to be connected to a pressure-based flow controller like the MFCS or the FlowEZ and to the microfluidic circuit with the appropriate tubing and fittings. The desired pressure is then selected on the pressure controller, corresponding to the pressure applied to the pressure chamber of the pressurized bottle cap. The pressure is then applied to the system, including the cap, which causes its valve to open and allows the fluid contained in the bottle to flow to the rest of the setup. The pressure can be regulated during the experiment by changing it on the pressure controller, or by programming it directly in the software in the case of the LineUp series.
## What happens to the pressure when you open the cap?
When the bottle is opened, the pressure inside will equalize with the surrounding atmospheric pressure. The pressures inside and outside the bottle will then be similar and the valve will be closed.
In other words, opening the bottle will break the seal, and the fluid flow will no longer be controlled or regulated by the pressure-based flow controller and the pressure control bottle cap.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
**PERFORMANCE**
**Working pressure**from -800 mbar to 2000 mbar **(/!\\ do not exceed 2 bar)**
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Inlet pressure fitting**Luer or 4mm OD**Outlet / Inlet fluidic port(s)**1/4”-28 thread**Material**Body: PTFE
Seal: Expanded PTFE
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Accessories
- [
### Bottle-CAP Kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/tubing-fitting-kit-for-bottle-cap-2-ports/)
**Catégories de produit:** Pressure Control Reservoirs
---
### [Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the reservoirs
### Pressurize standard lab vials for microfluidic experiments
The 1-Channel version of Fluiwell fits standard 15- and 50-mL lab vials. The 4-Channel version can be used with Micrew reservoirs of 0.5 and 2 mL.
### High pressure compatibility
The pressurized fluid reservoirs can support pressures up to 7 bar.
### Reservoir accessibility
The vials can be heated or agitated while handling the fluids.
### No wetted materials
No contact between the cap and the sample. Only disposable materials are wetted.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Working principle
- Schematic
**PERFORMANCE**
**Working pressure**Up to 7 bar (100 psi)
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Tubing compatibility**1/16” and 1/32” OD capillaries**Pressure inlet connector**4 mm OD**Reservoir size compatibility**0.5 mL, 2 mL, 15 mL, 50 mL
**MATERIAL**
**Cap and support**Delrin**Seal**NBR**Speedfit**Nickel-plated brass
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
The **Fluiwell series** is a tool for pressurizing liquida inside the vials in order for the fluids to flow through a microfluidic system. Caps are made of **Delrin®**, making them **autoclavable.** The reservoirs and caps are available with different **volume sizes**, **channel numbers,** and **pressurization levels**
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### Fluiwell 4-C tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/fluiwell-4c-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### Fluiwell-1C 15 mL tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/fluiwell-1c-15-ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### Fluiwell 1-C 50 mL tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/fluiwell-1c-50-ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Pressure Control Reservoirs
---
### [Microfluidic In-Line Pressure Sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/pressure-unit/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the Pressure Unit
### Wide Range of Detection
The PRESSURE UNIT is a microfluidic in-line pressure sensor that allows the accurate measurement of pressure and vacuum within the range -1000 mbar to 7 bar. Our pressure detector or disposes of a wide range of reading flow rates.
### Display in Real-Time
Graphically monitor the pressure measurement using Fluigent’s OxyGEN software. Our dedicated software and its allows users to control the data acquisition directly on a pc.
### No Hub Is Needed
Directly plug the sensor to a PC and benefit from a compacte solution for pressure detection. The microfluidic in-line pressure sensor can be plugged anywhere (inline) in your microfluidic setup.
### Pressure Control
Users can achieve precise pressure control by combining any microfluidic pressure detector with our **pressure controller system.**
### Compatible with Both Liquids and Gases
This pressure sensor is designed to accurately measure pressure in fluidic systems, whether the medium is liquid or gas.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## How to Use the Pressure Sensor in my Microfludic Setup ?
The PRESSURE UNIT is a stand-alone pressure sensor allowing a fast and accurate measure of the pressure applied in a fluidic path. To do this, connect the in-line pressure sensor to the computer using a USB connection. You will need the connectics and tubing kit provided by Fluigent to integrate the pressure detector into the fluidic path. It’s important to note that the fluid can flow in either direction, indicated by the arrow on the PRESSURE UNIT or in the opposite direction, without affecting the accuracy of the pressure measurements.
To monitor the Fluigent pressure controllers, you can either use the LineUpTM local control or use the Fluigent dedicated software on a computer. In both cases, you will be able to directly access the measured pressure in the fluidic path by the in-line pressure sensor through the Fluigent OxyGEN software interface.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**PERFORMANCE**
**Product range****S****M****XL****Part number**EIPS345EIPS1000EIPS7000**Pressure range** (measurement)-345 mbar to 345 mbar-1000 mbar to 1000 mbar -1000 to 7000 mbar**Maximum overpressure**1380 mbar3100 mbar13800 mbar**Accuracy mean** (% of max range)2 to 3 mbar
0.6% typ. to 0.9%10 to 20 mbar
1.0% typ. to 2.0%16 to 40 mbar
0.3% typ. to 0.6%**Zero shift**6.9 mbar
(2% span)10 mbar
(1% span)70 mbar
(1% span)**Repeatability / Hysterisis**1.4 mbar
(0.4% span)2.0 mbar
(0.2% span)14 mbar
(0.2% span)**Measurement sampling**40 ms40 ms40 ms
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Internal volume**22 µL**Inner diameter**500 µm**Compensated temperature range**0 to 50°C**Connection fittings**1/4’’-28 Flat bottom**Recommended tubing**1/16’’ OD**Materials**PEEK, EPDM, Silicon**Maximum operating altitude**Up to 2000 m**Maximum relative humidity**80% (0°C to 31°C)
50% (until 50°C)**Dimensions**50 x 30 x 20 mm**Weight**59 g
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Voltage range (direct current)**5 V**Maximal power**10 mW
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual PRESSURE UNIT User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/pressure-unit-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets PRESSURE UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/pressure-unit-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### PRESSURE UNIT tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/pressure-unit-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Sensors
---
### [Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the Fluigent Pressure Generator
### FLPG+ Standard version
The standard low-pressure source is a version with a high pressurization capacity that can supply up to 8 channels at 2 bar or 16 channels at 1 bar.
### Local control and display
Manually adjust the output pressure with the dial and check the value on the LCD screen.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
## What are the advantages of a portable pressure source compared to a lab-integrated generator?
A benchtop low pressure generator, also known as a portable low pressure generator, offers several advantages over a generator built into the lab:
- Portability: A benchtop pressure generator is typically small and portable, meaning it can be easily moved from one location to another.
- Cost: A portable pressure supply is generally less expensive than a generator built into the lab. This can be an important consideration for laboratories with limited budgets.
- Flexibility: The portable device can typically provide a range of different pressures, making them useful for a variety of tests and calibrations. Lab-integrated generators, on the other hand, are often designed for a specific pressure range and are less accurate.
- Maintenance: A mobile pressure source is generally easier to maintain than a laboratory integrated generator. Parts can be replaced or repaired more easily and quickly, reducing downtime.
Overall, a benchtop low pressure generator can provide a convenient, flexible, and cost-effective alternative to a lab-integrated generator for laboratories that perform pressure and calibration testing.
## How to use the FLPG+ with a Flow EZ 1000mbar?
The [LineUp range](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) of modules is the new generation of [microfluidic systems](https://www.fluigent.com/research/): easily adaptable, economical and locally controllable with the local control dial. Since these flow controllers do not have an integrated pressure source, Fluigent offers the FLPG+, a low pressure source designed to work with modules like the [Flow EZ.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) The first step is to install the FLPG+ on a stable horizontal surface, leaving the vents unobstructed. After plugging in the generator and turning it on, it must be unlocked by pulling the knob (an orange ring then becomes visible). Next, the input pressure must be selected according to the power supply required for the type of pressure-based controller you are using.
The [LineUp range](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) of modules is the new generation of [microfluidic systems,](https://www.fluigent.com/research/) easily adaptable, economical and locally controllable with the local control dial. Since these flow controllers do not have a pressure source integrated, Fluigent offers the FLPG+, a low pressure source. It was designed to work with modules like the [Flow EZ.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) The first step is to install the FLPG+ on a horizontal and stable surface, leaving the vents unobstructed. After plugging in the generator and turning it on, it must be unlocked by pulling the knob (an orange ring is then visible). Then the input pressure must be selected according to the power supply required for the type of pressure-based controller.
Table 1 Required pressure supply for the different fluigents pressure controllers
Figure 1 Picture of the set up using the FLPG+ and the Flow Ez 1000 mbar
According to the table above, when working with a Flow EZ 1000 mbar, the pressure to be selected on the FLPG+ is 1.1 bar. You then need to connect the pressure controller to the low pressure generator (front and/or rear output). You can now start your experiment.
Once your tests are finished, remember to turn off the device.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- FAQ
**PERFORMANCE**
**Maximum output pressure**2.3 bar**Maximum airflow-rate**3.2 L/min under 2.1 bar or 2.0 L/min under 1.1bar**Output capacity** (high pressure version)2 bar: up to 8 channels
1 bar: up to 16 channels
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions**180 x 160 x 270 mm
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power supply**24 V (max 2 A)
**What is the power supply ofthe FLPG ?**
The power supply needed is the one provided by Fluigent (24VDC).
---
**How to use my FLPG?**
- Press the ON/OFF button (box #2 on the picture)
- Connect the output pressure line to the MFCS™-EZ or MFCS™-EX (box #3 on the picture)
- Set the manual regulator (box #4 on the picture). The display (box #1 on the picture) shows you the value of the FLPG generated pressure.
---
**How many pressure channels can be supplied by the FLPG?**
Our FLPG can provide 2 bar for up to 4 pressure channels or 1 bar up to 8 channels. Other configurations are possible, please contact us for detailed configurations.
---
**How can I purge the air dryer?**
In order to clear out the air dryer (water coming from condensation) you have to push on the white part of the air dryer as on the picture below.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual FLPG Plus User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flpg-plus-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLPG Plus Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flpg-plus-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Fluigent RX
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
## Accessories
- [
### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Pressure Sources
---
### [Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the platform
### Preserve the sample
Temperature controlled flow cell: the flow cell can be cooled or heated from 0° – 58° C with less than 0.2° C variance and an integrated intelligent feedback loop for external temperature variables.
Controlled perfusion: avoids abrupt manual injection that can damage both the sample, the reagent, and the microscopy workstation.
Enclosed system: contamination free.
### Reduce variability
Protocol automation drastically reduces variability to as little as 0.5% between experiments, compared to 5.1% intra-operator variability and 8.1% inter-operator variability using a pipette.
### Synchronize with microscope
Aria and the FCS Chamber System are equipped with TTL ports to either send or receive TTL signals. TTL communication with a microscope enables users to synchronize perfusion and imaging.
### Cost-effective
This automated multiplexed imaging platform is a cost-effective alternative to an all-in-one system. In addition, because the platform is flexible and transportable, it can be easily moved between microscopes to perform various sets of experiments, and is highly adaptable to different protocols and investigations.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
## What is multiplexed imaging?
Multiplexed imaging refers to a technique used in biological imaging to simultaneously **visualize multiple targets or biomarkers within a sample**. It allows researchers to obtain spatial and molecular information from a single sample, providing a more comprehensive understanding of complex biological systems. In traditional imaging techniques, such as immunofluorescence or immunohistochemistry, only a limited number of targets can be visualized at a time using specific fluorescent labels or antibodies. Multiplexed imaging expands the capability by enabling the detection of numerous targets in a single experiment.
There are various approaches to achieve multiplexed imaging. One common method involves using different fluorophores or fluorescent dyes that emit distinct wavelengths of light. By selecting fluorophores with non-overlapping emission spectra, **multiple targets can be labeled and detected simultaneously**. This technique is often referred to as multiplex fluorescence imaging.
Multiplexed imaging has significantly advanced our understanding of complex biological processes, such as cell signaling, tissue microenvironments, and disease pathology. By enabling the simultaneous detection of multiple targets within a sample, researchers can gain deeper insights into the spatial relationships and interactions between different biomolecules, cells, or tissues, leading to more comprehensive and detailed biological analyses.
## Description of the multiple fluid delivery platform
The automated multiplexed imaging platform is the perfect compromise between manual pipetting and an all-in-one system dedicated to one specific application, integrating a microscope, a specific [chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) type, and a given set of solutions. Any protocol with multiple solution delivery can be automated, saving the scientist time and reducing variability between experiments compared to manual procedures.
The platform, which integrates our [**ARIA**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) automated sequential injection system, is straightforward and ready to use. No specific training is required, and no time is lost troubleshooting incidents or manually priming solutions before the experiment as with custom-built systems.
## Improve your lab work with enhanced flexibility
The multiple fluid delivery platform is designed to offer maximum flexibility in terms of:
- Applications: the instrument and its intuitive [software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-7-software-presentation-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/) automates any sequence of functions: perfusion of up to 10 solutions, incubation, synchronization with the microscope via TTL signaling, flush tubing.
- [**Chamber design**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/live-cell-imaging-chamber/): the flow cell comes with a wide range of gaskets that fit biological samples from 2D cells to thick tissue samples. It is available in cooled, no-heat, and temperature-controlled versions, with an intelligent feedback system to maintain perfect temperature control for long-term investigations, and features leakproof flow.
- Microscopy: Our automated multiplexed imaging platform is adaptable to any upright or inverted microscope.
- Reagents: any type of antibody, RNA or DNA sequence can be used.
## Productivity
Automation offers high productivity gains compared to manual pipetting.
The 20-step immunoassay protocol, which takes 2 days with manual pipetting, is shortened to several hours, increasing overall productivity from 2 samples a week to 1 sample a day. Automation also significantly reduces operational variability and pipetting errors.
Watch the **[webinar ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/#webinar "webinar ")**on the benefits of automation and examples of applications.
## Applications of the multiple fluid delivery platform
This kit is perfect for any researcher who is looking to **automate the labeling process** for living cells, fixed tissues, and more.
Applications to which this system can be directly applied include but are not limited to:
- [Shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) experiments
- Extended imaging of live 3D cell culture
- Omics applications, including but not limited to proteomics and spatial-omics
- Ratiometric imaging such as calcium rationing
- Intracellular trafficking
- Any manner of fluorescence in situ labeling, including but not limited to FISH (fluorescence in situ hybridization), seq-FISH, MER-FISH, HCR-FISH
- Toxicity testing
- Drug response studies
- High-throughput expression screening
- Automated IBEX multiplex immunohistochemistry
- Automated fluid delivery for cell and tissue imaging
- Spatial omics platform
## WEBINAR REPLAY – Automated IBEX multiplex immunohistochemistry with Aria
Join Dr. Colin Chu from the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology (UK)[ in this seminar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-ibex-multiplex-immunohistochemistry/), as he presents a powerful technique developed with the Germain Research Group at the US NIH: *Iterative Bleaching Extends Multiplexity*.
Using Fluigent’s Aria automated perfusion system, the team successfully labeled up to **40 proteins in a single tissue section**—pushing the boundaries of multiplex imaging with microfluidics.
**Webinar hosted by:**
Amar Tamra, PhD, Application Engineer, Fluigent
Dr. Colin Chu, University College London
[More About this Webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-ibex-multiplex-immunohistochemistry/)
## WEBINAR REPLAY – Automated fluid delivery for cell and tissue imaging
Want to gain time, precision and reproducibility with your immunofluorescence assay, or any other assay requiring injection of multiple solutions on your sample? Watch our webinar to learn how to interface a flow chamber (or a [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/)) to our [automated fluid delivery device ARIA](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/). This will allow you to deliver up to 10 different solutions in a sequential and autonomous manner. In addition, the automated multiplexed imaging platform can **be synchronized with any microscope to** launch an image acquisition cycle and resume the perfusion protocol once the imaging cycle has been completed.
This all-in-one workflow facilitates alternation between cycles of injection/incubation time with reagents and image acquisition, a feature particularly well-adapted to complex cell and tissue imaging. Here we will present some example applications such as multiplexed tissue imaging, DNA-PAINT and seqFISH as well as cell capture and staining.
**Webinar contents:**
Reasons for & advantages of using automated sequential fluid delivery
Demo video
Example applications:
- Automated multiplexed tissue imaging
- Sequential fluorescence in situ hybridization (SeqFISH)
- Capture and characterization of circulating tumor cells
Q&A session
**Webinar hosted by:**
Mélanie Chabaud (Fluigent – Application Engineer)
William César (Fluigent – R&D project manager)
Noé Viovy (Fluigent – R&D software developer)
## WEBINAR REPLAY – How to turn your fluorescence microscope into a spatial omics platform
Current approaches in genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics yield quantitative abundance analysis of biomolecules on an almost routine basis, with a critical impact in the life sciences.
However, coupling this high content to spatial information in a single-cell and tissue context is still a challenge, and this is where our efforts are presently focusing.
In this webinar, I will share my facility’s experience in building spatial omics platforms.
First, I will provide an overview and comparison of microscopy-based methods for spatial omics. Then, I will present details and resources on how to build such a platform.
Finally, I will show the existing tools available for image and data analysis associated with these methods.
It is my hope that our experience can serve others in the road ahead to help decide which technique is best for their applications and to assist in their implementation.
**Webinar hosted by:**
Alvaro Crevenna: Head of Microscopy, EMBL Rome
Dale Clark: Chief Operating Officer, Bioptechs Inc.
---
## Specifications
- Software
- How to use the platform
**Aria software**
Aria comes with an intuitive software that enables to design protocols in few clicks.
Incubation time, flow rate, volume dispensed, are all parameters that can be easily set by the operator for each step of his protocol. Protocols are recorded and can be shared among users. Flow rate and pressure are recorded for each experiment
### Flow cell
**How to mount the flow cell?**
**How to connect Aria to the FCS2?**
Connect the output of the 2 switch valve to the flow cell using a P702 union
**Watch this step-by-step tutorial series to master Aria — from setup to full software control.**
**Episode 1**
[Tutorial 1: How to plug an Aria](https://youtu.be/OMBACiBfA18?list=PLqaABIaE3qQpKNXU-JQyMO2V58oWFkeVt)
---
**Episode 2**
[Tutorial 2: Connect to set the fluidic path](https://youtu.be/stsVSkfVOkg)
---
**Episode 3**
[Tutorial 3: How to fill up the reservoir](https://youtu.be/FZWGukKnB_8)
---
**Episode 4**
[Tutorial 4: How to use Aria manually](https://youtu.be/gdzDdR1MgZ8)
---
**Episode 5**
[Tutorial 5: Perform a calibration with Aria](https://youtu.be/s-tDkOvdwfg)
---
**Episode 6**
[Tutorial 6: Global handling of Aria](https://youtu.be/t2JeU4dEU3Y)
---
**Episode 7**
[Tutorial 7: Software presentation](https://youtu.be/ptM67HRCABY)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual FCS2 Chamber instructions Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fcs2-chamber-instructions/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual FCS2 Chamber temperature instructions Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fcs2-chamber-temperature-instructions/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Aria datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/aria-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
## Related products
- [
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
## Accessories
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Double Emulsion Generation Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the double emulsion pack
### Complete system
With this double emulsion generation pack, you have all the components needed to start generating double emulsions.
### Dedicated protocol
A protocol is available to assist you in setting up and starting your experiments.
### Engineered solution
We built the package with the right pressure controllers, microfluidic chips, and valves to give you the **greatest possible flexibility in terms of droplet size** and generation rate.
### Customization
We can adapt the package to meet your needs (droplet size, generation rate).
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
### Double Emulsion Generation Resources
In this [application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/ "application note") we have demonstrated how we can produce a robust different type of double emulsion with a single device.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Double Emulsion Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### Double emulsions station datasheet
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/double-emulsions-station-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Double emulsions protocol
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/double-emulsions-protocol/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## Main products of the Double Emulsion Generation Pack
- [
#### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Double Emulsion Generation Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
#### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [
#### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
## Applications of the double emulsion production pack
Many traditional methods for double emulsion production, such as the batch method, have their limitations. However, these limitations can be overcome by employing [droplet-based microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) with Fluigent’s [LineUP](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) microfluidic pumps and the [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) device, a droplet generator, both included in the double emulsion generation pack. This advanced technology offers significant advantages in terms of improved size distribution and mixture quality. This breakthrough technology for highly monodisperse and stable double emulsions has a wide range of potential applications in diverse industries, including:
- Cell encapsulation
- Microencapsulation of bacteria and yeast
- Microcapsule/microparticle synthesis
- Bacteria culture in droplets
## Double emulsion pack webinars and tutorial
Because this flagship Fluigent product gives users access to so many applications, our teams and Secoya’s teams have taken the time to organize webinars and prepare tutorials to help you better understand this pack and its different methods of use. You can find all the information by watching or rewatching these different videos.
- Tutorial – How to produce double emulsions
- Mastering double emulsion production
- Double emulsion production made easy
## How to produce double emulsions with the RayDrop – Tutorial
This tutorial, presented by the Fluigent team, shows you how to generate a double emulsion with the double emulsion generation pack. The technology is presented theoretically and a live demonstration of the experiment is performed. This format is ideal for a quick introduction to the pack and its use.
## Mastering double emulsion production – Webinar
Presented by the Fluigent and Secoya teams, these workshops/webinars provide comprehensive guidance on generating a double emulsion using the double emulsion production pack. By watching this video, you can delve into the technical intricacies and envision how this pack can enhance your projects. First the Raydrop is introduced, followed by a live demonstration of the experiment. To address common queries, the videos conclude with a FAQ segment. This format is perfect for gaining a thorough understanding of the pack’s technology and envisioning its potential applications for your specific needs.
## Double emulsion production made easy – Webinar
This method shows advantages and potential in many applications such as in food for flavor release or cosmetics for fragrance and flavor release (toothpaste, perfume…), in pharmaceutics for drug delivery ( Protection of API in microcapsules for control drug release) and other. Whereas double emulsion is a promising method for many applications, technologies to make double emulsion such as batch methods are all suffering from various limitations (low reproducibility, big size distribution…)
During this webinar, we are going to present the only device available on the market which allows to easily produce double emulsion with any kind of solution without chemical surface treatments needed.
---
## Specifications
- Package contents
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Performance
## Package contents
**LineUp Flow EZ pressure controller (2000 mbar) x3****LineUp LINK Module (software control) x1****FLOW UNIT M (x2) and L (x1)****P-CAP series 50 mL (x2) and 15 mL (x1)****LineUp Switch EZ (x1)****2-SWITCH x**2**Raydrop Double Emulsions 30µm-70µm-150µm x1****dSurf x1**
## Microfluidic device specifications
**Design**Co-flow focusing design**Inputs & Outputs**3 inputs, 1 output**Types of emulsion**Water-in oil-in-water and oil-in-water-in-oil double emulsion**Double emulsion size\***Shell: from 70 to 130 µm, Core: from 20 to 120 µm**Monodispersity**CV <2%**Generation rate**5 000 Hz (measured for the smallest double emulsion size) can go higher under specific conditions**Capillaries dimension**Nozzle: Core: 30 µm & ID Shell: 70 µm ID
Output: 150 µm ID**Wetted material continuous phase**PEEK, FEP, glass, stainless steel 316L, poluimide, Viton (seal), resin (nozzle)**Wetted material dispersed phase**PEEK, FEP, Glass, resin (nozzle)**Fluids compatibility**Water, mineral oil, fluorinated oil, ethanol, ethyl acetate, IPA, Acetone, Chloroform
## Flow Control
**Pumps**Fluigent Flow EZ (2000mbar)**Flow Sensors**Fluigent FLOW UNIT (M & L)**Automated valves**Fluigent 2-SWITCH
## Imaging (optional)
**Microscope**Fluigent Digital high-speed microscope
## OxyGEN
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
## Software Development Kit
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/ "Custom Software Development")
---
## Imaging
OptoViewer Software
## Performance
**Batch method****Fluigent microfluidic method****Process**multiple step processdirect double emulsion production**Homogeneity**random distribution of single and double emulsionhigh homogeneity**Particle size distribution**more than 50% ~ 2%**Reproducibility**lowhigh**Live particle size control**noprecise**Continuous (in line) production**noyes
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Raydrop double emulsions protocol Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-double-emulsions-protocol/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Raydrop double emulsions datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-double-emulsions-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Raydrop | A new droplet generation device based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/the-raydrop-a-new-droplet-generation-device-based-on-non-embedded-co-flow-focusing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Double emulsions protocol Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/double-emulsions-protocol/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Double emulsions station datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/double-emulsions-station-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual LineUp™ series User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/lineup-series-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Platform for emulsions & droplets
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
- [
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
- [
### UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform
An all-in-one platform for continuous generation of UV-cured core-shell microcapsules
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Accessories
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Digital High-speed Microscope
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## Kits
- [
### Double emulsion tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/double-emulsion-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the flow rate sensor
### Tune Measurements for Various Liquids
When combined with a FLOW UNIT, a scale factor can be added to your measurements when handling other fluids than the liquid for which the flow rate sensor is calibrated for.
For organic solutions, a second calibration with isopropyl alcohol is built-in on the FLOW UNIT models S, M+ and L+.
### Flow Rate Measurement
The FlOW UNIT and FLOW UNIT+ enable fast and accurate measurements of ultra-low liquid flow rates.
### Monitor & Control Experiments
Flowrate measurements (bidirectional) for all FLOW UNITs are displayed in FLUIGENT software. An additional function displays and records the dispensed volume for each FLOW UNIT Microfluidic Flow Sensor. Flowrates can be directly controlled with the MFCS™ series and LineUp™ series instruments using the DFC, a “self-learning” flow rate control algorithm.
### Precision for Various Flow Rate Ranges
The different FLOW UNIT models offer an extensive choice of flowrate ranges to best match your needs over the range of 7nL/min to 5mL/min.
### Locally Control Flow Rate
Combined with a LineUp™ Push-Pull or a LineUp Flow EZ™, one can monitor or **control flow rate** without a PC.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
## How does the flow rate sensor work?
Fluigent’s Microfluidic Flow Sensor is a unique tool to easily monitor flow rates in any microfluidic system with the best precision and accuracy. A microheater provides a minimal amount of heat to the medium monitored. Two temperature sensors, located on both sides of the heat source, detect temperature variations.
The high precision thermal sensor technology provides total media isolation and very low internal volume with no moving parts. The flow rate is then calculated based on the thermal desorption, which is directly related to the flow rate.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications (FLOW UNIT Plus)
- Technical specifications (FLOW UNIT)
- Software
- Schematic
- FAQ
### Sensor performance
**Sensor model**XSSM+L+**Part Number**FLU-XSFLU-S-DFLU-M+FLU-L+**Calibrated media**Water
Water
IPAWater
IPA Water
IPA **Range****Water**
0±1.5µL/min
**Water**
0±7µL/min
**IPA**
0±70µL/min**Water, IPA**
0±2mL/min
**Water,** **IPA**
0±40mL/min
**Accuracy (m.v.= measured value)
also applies to negative values****Water**
10% m.v. above 75 nL/min
7.5 nL/min below 75 nL/min
**Water**
5% m.v. above 0.42 µL/min
21 nL/min below 0.42 µL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 4.2 µL/min
210 nL/min below 4.2 µL/min**Water**
5% m.v. above 10 µL/min
0.5 µL/min below 10 µL/min
**IPA**
10% m.v. above 50 µL/min
5 µL/min below 50 µL/min
**Water**
5% m.v. above 1 mL/min
50 µL/min below 1 mL/min
**IPA**
10% m.v. above 2 mL/min
200 µL/min below 2 mL/min**Lowest detectable flow increment**3.7 nL/min10 nL/min0.25 µL/min25 µL/min**Repeatability****Water**
<1% m.v. above 90 nL/ min
0.9 nL/min below 90 nL/min**Water**
0.5% m.v. above 0.7 μL/ min
3.5 nL/min below 0.7 μL/ min
**IPA**
1% m.v. above 0.7 μL/ min
7 nL/min below 0.7 μL/ minAt 23°C **Water & IPA**
0.5% mv above 100μL- min
0.5μL/min below 100μL/ minAt 23°C **Water & IPA** 0.5% mv above 2mL/ min
10μL/min below 2mL/ min
### Mechanical specifications
**Sensor model**XSSM+L+**Sensor inner diameter**25 µm150 µm 400 µm 1.4 mm **Maximum pressure**200 bar200 bar 12 bar 12 bar **Wetted materials**PEEK
& Quartz GlassPEEK
& Quartz GlassPPS, stainless steel 316L
Fittings: PEEK/ ETFEPPS, stainless steel 316L
Fittings: PEEK/ ETFE**Inner volume**1µL1.5µL~ 28µL~ 58µL**Fluid connector ports**UNF 6-40 for 1/32” OD tubingUNF 6-40 for 1/32” OD tubingUNF 1⁄4′′-28 flat bottom for 1/16” OD tubingUNF 1⁄4′′-28 flat bottom for 1/16” OD tubing**Weight**97 g97 g97 g97 g
---
### Sensor performance
**Sensor model**XSSMLXL**Part Number**FLU-XSFLU-S-DFLU-M-DFLU-L-DFLU-XL**Calibrated media**WaterWater
IPAWater
IPAWater
IPAWater**Range****Water**
0±1.5µL/min**Wate**r
0±7 µL/min
**IPA**
0±70 µL/min**Water**
0±80µL/min
**IPA**
0±500µL/min**Water** 0±1mL/min
**IPA**
0±10mL/min**Water**
0±5mL/min**Accuracy (m.v.= measured value)
also applies to negative values**10% m.v. above 75 nL/ min
7.5 nL/min below 75 nL/ min**Water**
5% m.v.above 0.42 µL/min
21 nL/min below 0.42 µL/min
**IPA** 20% m.v. above 4.2 µL/min
210 nL/min below 4.2 µL/min**Water**
5% m.v. above 2.4 µL/min
0.12 µL/min below 2.4 µL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 25 µL/min
5 µL/min below 25 µL/min**Water**
5% m.v. above 0.04 mL/min
1.5 µL/min below 0.04 mL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 0.5 mL/min
100 µL/min below 0.5 mL/min5% m.v.above 0.2 mL/min
10 µL/min below 0.2 mL/min
**Repeatability** **(m.v.= measured value)
also applies to negative values**<1% m.v. above 90 nL/ min
0.9 nL/min below 90 nL/min
**Water**
0.5% m.v above 0.7µL/min
3.5 nL/min below 0.7 µL/min
**IPA**
1% m.v above 0.7µL/min
7 nL/min below 0.7 µL/min**Water**
0.5% m.v above 1.6 µL/min
8 nL/min below 1.6 µL/min
**IPA**
1% m.v above 25 µL/min
0.25 µL/min below 25 µL/min**Water**
0.5% m.v above 40 µL/min
0.2 µL/min below 40 µL/min
**IPA**
1% m.v above 500 µL/min
5 µL/min below 500 µL/min0.5% m.v. above 200 µL/ min
0.4 µL/min below 200 µL/min**Lowest detectable flow increment**3.7 nL/min10 nL/min0.06 µL/min0.7 µL/min3 µL/min
### Mechanical specifications
**Sensor model**XSSMLXL**Sensor inner diameter**25µm150 µm430 µm1.0 mm 1.8 mm**Total internal volume**1 µL1.5 µL5 µL25 µL80 µL**Maximum pressure**200 bar200 bar100 bar15 bar 15 bar**Wetted materials**PEEK and Quartz GlassPEEK and Quartz GlassPEEK and Borosilicate
GlassPEEK and Borosilicate
GlassPEEK and Borosilicate Glass
**Fluid connector ports**UNF 6-40 for 1/32” OD tubingUNF 6-40 for 1/32” OD tubingUNF 6-40 for 1/32” OD tubingFlangeless fitting 1/4-28Flangeless fitting 1/4-28**Weight**97 g97 g97 g97 g97 g
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
Flow rate control without a PC
Flow rate control with Fluigent software
- ### Can I use electrically charged fluids inside my Flow unit ?
Electrically charged fluids can’t be used with Flow unit + (M+ and L+) but standard Flow unit such as XS, S, M, L and XL are compatible.
- ### Reduce flow-rate peaks
Most of the times, flow-rate peaks represent air bubbles. In order to get a stable measured flow rate, you have to remove all the air bubbles into your set-up. To achieve this, flush your set up by applying a higher pressure until air bubbles disappeared. Besides, you own flow controller might not deliver a stable flow. Contact us for more information.
- ### Will capillary size influence the system?
Yes the diameter of the capillary is small: 25 µm, so depending on the size of your system, you may need to push your fluids harder to obtain a given flow-rate. Then the maximum pressure drop between the sides of the XS FLOW UNIT model at maximum flow-rate is 0.8 bar.
- ### Specific cleaning procedure for XS models
You can find cleaning procedures in the [FLOW UNIT cleaning procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flow-rate-platform-and-flow-unit-user-manual/). Concerning specifically the XS FLOW UNIT, it may withstand pressures up to 200 bar, so is it possible to use high pressure or flow-rate pumps in case of clogging.
- ### Prevent clogging on XS models
It is possible to add a filter in the fluidic path. As an example, you can find among Idex products, biocompatible precolumn filters (references A-355, A-356). These filters are designed for use with 1/16’’ OD tubing. You can choose either 0.5 µm (A-700) or 2 µm (A-701) frit version to filter particles from you flow path.
- ### FLOW UNIT does not reach a steady state
For some fluid controllers, the settling-time may be long. For this reason, the transition phase after an order change in the fluid controller takes much longer, depending on the nature of the fluid controller. Visit us on www.fluigent.com for further information.
- ### Flow-rate is not stable
Some fluid controllers are unable to limit the fluctuations of the flow-rates around a mean ordered value because of the mechanical actuation they use. How to connect tubing to the FLOW UNIT models Therefore, the flow-rate within your system can be an imprecise response to the fluid controller. Visit us on www.fluigent.com for further information.
- ### Interfacing to the computer
The FLOW UNITS have to be plugged to either Flowboard or to FlOW EZ, which allows the communication between the FLOW UNITS and the computer.
- ### Scale factor calculation
The following section explains how you can calculate this scale factor and shows an example with a fluorinated oil: FC-40.
A method for providing a known flow-rate is required to work out the scale factor for the selected fluid. This could be a syringe pump, a peristaltic pump or a pressure regulator delivering fluid onto a precision balance with volume calculated from known density. Here is an example using MFCS™-EZ.
Make a table that contains the time for each measurement, results from weighing scale, the flow-rate of the pump and the data measured by the FLOW UNIT. A minimum of 3 measurements is recommended for each flow-rate.
The principle of the experiment is to inject the FC-40 through the desired FLOW UNIT model connected to the FLOWBOARD. Then simultaneously you record the flow-rate given by the software and you measure the weight of fluid you have collected over a chosen period of time. Knowing the density of the fluid, you are able to define the actual flow-rate.
Note that if a peristaltic or a syringe pump is used, one has to wait until the target flow-rate is reached (settling times can be long) and to calculate an average flow-rate due to the pulsations.
- ### Calibrations other than water or IPA
You can calculate a scale factor which will correct the measured flow-rate returned by the FLOW UNIT.
The different FLOW UNIT models are calibrated to provide an accurate reading when used with the corresponding fluid, water or isopropyl alcohol.
For the FLOW UNIT models XS/XL, only one single calibration for water is available. For the FLOW UNIT models S/M/L, two calibrations are available: Water and Isopropyl alcohol.
The FLOW UNIT can be used to handle different fluids not originally calibrated for. When possible, select a standard calibration field that most closely matches your fluid.
For example, water calibration can be used for water based solution and isopropyl alcohol calibration for hydrocarbons or oil. The calibration can be selected and switched in the software.
In order to obtain accurate flow-rates for alternative fluids, it is necessary to use correction factors (scale factor), to convert the displayed value into the actual value. The scale factor can be added in the software. Adding the scale factor ensures that the flow sensor reading is now accurate for the target fluid.
- ### How to clean the FLOW UNIT after use
FLOW UNIT models are highly sensitive and should be properly cleaned to always maintain high performance. With proper care and maintenance, the FLOW UNITs can last many years. No cleaning or improper cleaning may leave deposits on the internal capillary wall which could result in measurement deviations and even clogging. Cleaning the sensor after use and before storing the device for a long period of time should prevent the sensors from any damage.
Do not allow the sensor to dry with media in the capillary tube without flushing clean first. Also try to avoid letting the filled sensor sit for extended periods (depending on your liquid).
Before storing the sensor, always drain of fluid, flush with cleaning agent, blow out, and dry the capillary.
Cleaning and flushing of the FLOW UNITs should consider the nature of the materials that were being pumped through them. Typically, one should select a cleaning solution that is safe for the FLOW UNIT (the inside surface) and the rest of the set up but yet will dissolve the type of samples that were in contact with the surface.
For FLOW UNIT XS, S and M, fluids have to be compatible with PEEK & Quartz glass.
For FLOW UNIT L and XL, fluids have to be compatible with PEEK & Borosilicate glass.
The following steps are recommended for water-based solutions, in the right order:
• Rinse all your system with water.
• Clean the FLOW UNIT with a non-foaming detergent.
The detergent needs to be compatible with FLOW UNIT, the rest of your set-up (microfluidic chip, especially) and fluids used during your experiment.
• Remove all the contaminants thanks to a disinfectant (for example, Javel bleach).
• Rinse the Javel bleach (or the selected disinfectant) with water.
• Rinse all you system with isopropanol. Thanks to this final step, you won’t leave any trace on your Flow Unit.
• Then, sensor yellow plugs must be installed for storage
- ### Unmatched order and measure
• The flow-rate calculated by the FLOW UNIT is based on a temperature diffusion-advection measurement with the glass capillary. If your fluid is not pure water (or isopropanol) you first need to add a scale factor to calibrate your FLOW UNIT.
• There might be a leak within your system. Please check if your system is completely tight before going any further.
• This might be because of your screwed fitting. Please unscrew and then re-screw it.
• Your fluid controller may not be as precise as the FLOW UNIT sensor.
- ### Temperature range for optimal accuracy
The FLOW UNIT sensors are already temperature compensated, so they work in a range of 10°C to 50°C. This can be useful if your device needs to fit within an incubation chamber.
- ### Capillary size influence
With the XS FLOW UNIT, the diameter of the capillary is small: 25 µm, so depending on the size of your system, you may need to push your fluids harder to obtain a given flow-rate. Then the maximum pressure drop between the sides of the XS FLOW UNIT model at maximum flow-rate is 0.8 bar.
- ### Not recommended cleaning methods
In general, **any cleaning by mechanical means should be avoided**. Never enter the sensor flow path with sharp objects that could scratch the glass surface.
Furthermore, no abrasives or liquids containing solids that can grind the surface clean should be used. Anything that affects the glass wall will cause deviations in the measurement performance or permanently damage the sensor.
**Strong acids and bases should also not be used to clean the sensor**. Acids can sometimes be used in low concentration and at low temperatures. Before using the acid check how compatible it is with borosilicate 3.3 glass (Pyrex® or Duran®).
- ### How to use tergazyme
• Make a fresh 1% solution (10 grams per liter) in cold or warm water. If available, use warm water below 130F (55°C). For difficult soils, use very hot water (above 150F or 65°C) and use double the recommended amount of detergent.
• Circulate solution slowly for at least 1/2 hour.
• RINCE THOROUGHLY—preferably with running water.
• Drying can affect residues and corrosion. Impurities from rinse water can be deposited during evaporation. To minimize this, Dry with techniques that physically remove rinse water from the substrate such as isopropyl alcohol final rinse.
- ### Recommendations for fluids
**Working with multiple liquids**
Switching between multiple liquids can leave transient deposits in the form of liquid layers inside the glass capillary. This is especially common for insoluble liquids, but can happen even with miscible liquid combinations. For example, when IPA is followed by water in a sensor without drying in between, large offsets can be observed for hours after switching to water. If possible, dedicate a separate sensor for each different liquid to be measured. If not possible, use caution when switching media and clean properly.
**Working with water**
When working with water it is recommended not to let the sensor dry out. All salts and minerals in the water will deposit on the glass and are difficult to remove. Although salt solutions are particularly prone to problems, even clean water can still contain enough dissolved minerals to form a deposition layer. Flush with DI water on a regular basis to prevent build-up. If you still encounter problems, occasionally flush the sensor with slightly acidic cleaning agents.
When working with water containing organic materials (sugars, etc.) microorganisms often grow on the walls of the glass capillary and form an organic film that can be difficult to remove. Flush on a regular basis with solvents such as ethanol, methanol or IPA, or with cleaning detergents to remove organic films.
**Working with silicone oils**
When working with silicone oil it is recommended not to let the sensor dry out. Silicone oils can be cleaned out using special cleaners. Check with your silicone oil supplier for cleaning agents compatible with glass surfaces.
**Working with paints or glues**
When working with paints or glues it is critical **not** to let the sensor dry out. Often, depositions of paints and glues cannot be removed anymore after they have dried. Flush the sensor with cleaning agents recommended by your paint or glue manufacturer that are compatible with glass. Ensure that you have found a good cleaning procedure before performing the first tests, and always clean shortly after emptying the sensor.
**Working with alcohols or solvents**
Unlike most other fluids, alcohols and solvents are not critical and a short flush of isopropanol (IPA) is sufficient to clean the capillary walls.
**Other liquids or applications**
If uncertain about your application and how to clean the flow sensor, please contact FLUIGENT for additional support at
- ### How to integrate a FLOW UNIT in the experiment
Integrate the FLOW UNIT to the microfluidic system with the dedicated tubing & fittings.
For L or XL FLOW UNIT model:
1. Cut the 1/16’’ OD tubing to the desired length, leaving a square-cut face.
2. Slide the nut over the tubing with the nut thread facing the tubing end being connected.
3. Slip the ferrule over the tubing, with the tapered portion of the ferrule facing the nut. NB: the nuts and ferrules are specifically designed to work together. FLUIGENT advises you to only associate the provided ferrules with the provided nuts and vice-versa.
4. Insert the assembly into the receiving port, and while holding the tubing firmly against the bottom of the port, tighten the nut finger tight.
5. To check the tightness of your connection, you may pull gently on the tubing: it must stay fitted in the ferrule and nut.
6. Do the same thing on the 2nd port.
For XS, S or M FLOW UNIT model:
1. Cut the 1/32’’ OD tubing to the desired length, leaving a square-cut face.
2. Slide the fitting over the tubing.
3. Insert the assembly into the receiving port, and while holding the tubing firmly against the bottom of the port, tighten the fitting finger tight.
4. To check the tightness of your connection, you may pull gently on the tubing: it must stay fitted in the ferrule and nut.
5. Do the same thing on the 2nd port.
• Note: Please verify you connect the FLOW UNIT in the right direction by checking the arrow on the sticker.
• Check the provided kits with your FLOW UNITs as they can be different according to their model.
- ### How to set the FRP platform
Connect the USB cable between the computer and the Flowboard.
The green led is now switched on.
Then connect the FLOW UNITs to the Flowboard.
---
*Warning :*
When using biomaterials such as cell or bacteria for a long period, a biofilm may form over time on the Flow Unit’s channel impacting the accuracy of measurements. Regular cleaning and monitoring are recommended to ensure accurate and reliable results.
For long term experiment we encourage the use of the Flow unit standard rather than the Flow unit + which is more sensitive to biofilm formation.
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Cleaning Procedure Flow Units Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cleaning-procedure-flow-units/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Fluigent Flow-Rate Platform User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fluigent-flow-rate-platform-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual FlowBoard and FLOW UNIT+ User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flow-rate-platform-and-flow-unit-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT+ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-plus-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Cambridge: Microfluidic GUV production and testing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Generating a water emulsion in an oil solution using a droplet generator chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/production-of-water-in-oil-emulsions-using-a-droplet-generator-chip/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Impedance Measurement of Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Maryland: Microfluidic System for Robotic that can Play Nintendo Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/this-is-a-customer-case-study/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Sensor Hub
Microfluidic Flow sensor hub
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flowboard/)
- [
### Microfluidic In-Line Pressure Sensor
Microfluidic In-Line Pressure Sensor
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/pressure-unit/)
## Kits
- [
### FLOW UNIT XL tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/flow-unit-xl-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### FLOW UNIT L tubing and fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/flow-unit-l-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### FLOW UNIT S | M tubing & fitting kit (for 1/16 OD)
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/ctk-flow-unit-s-and-m-with-adaptor/)
- [
### FLOW UNIT S | M tubing & fitting kit (1/32 OD)
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/tubing-connection-kit-flow-unit-s-and-m/)
- [
### FLOW UNIT XS tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/ctk-flow-unit-xs-tubing-connection-kit/)
- [
### Disposable membranes for FLOW UNIT XS
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/disposable-membranes-for-flow-unit-xs/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Sensors
---
### [Encapsulation Platform for FACS](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
**Published:** October 25, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the cell encapsulation platform for flow cytometry
### ➤ Fluigent Precision and Flexibility
Produce robust and highly monodisperse emulsions using Fluigent’s pressure-based flow controllers and the Raydrop while accurately controlling the size of your droplets and shell thickness.
### ➤ Start emulsions production right away
The system is a fully equipped, mounted and controlled tool to create double emulsions with little setup time.
### ➤ Complete and easy-to-use engineered system
Our organized system requires easy priming and cleaning processes for better performance. It includes dedicated optics for optimized droplet visualization at a high frequency.
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
### ➤ Innovative and much sought-after application for cell analysis
The system is an easy-to-use platform for creating single-cell encapsulations into double emulsion droplets compatible with high-throughput screening and FACS experiments.
The encapsulation platform for FACS allows:
- Elimination of the risk of cross-contamination.
- Fast and efficient mixing of the reagents that occurs inside droplets.
- Ability to work with cells of limited availability.
## Description
**The cell encapsulation platform** includes an organized flow path with pressure controllers, filters, [flowmeters](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/), and [valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) to facilitate the start-up, shut-down, and cleaning of the system between runs. Dedicated optics are included to optimize the visualization of [droplet production](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) at high generation frequency.
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## What is FACS technology?
In the field of biology, FACS stands for Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting. It is a technology aimed at separating and isolating certain cells from a heterogeneous population based on their fluorescent properties. This fluorescent signal allows users to translate the production of certain molecules of interest or the expression of specific phenotypes. The process of this technique is to label the cells with fluorescent markers such as antibodies or dyes which have the role of binding to certain structures or molecules of the cell in a specific way. These labeled cells can then be passed through the flow cytometer, an instrument allowing for the detection and measurement of the fluorescence emitted by the cells. This fluorescence detection will allow the flow cytometer to sort the cells into different populations, allowing the researcher to collect and analyze these different groups of cells separately.
Using FACS enables the scientist to perform an efficient sorting with a limited number of doublets or multiple cells being sorted together and from there, the characterization of cellular heterogenicity and the rare cell subpopulation.
Through our [microfluidic technology](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/), the encapsulation platform for FACS allows for the generation of samples, which can be processed in flow cytometry.
## How to use the platform for FACS experiments?
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) can be associated with FACS technology to improve results. Working with microliter volumes allows for a considerable reduction in cost since the volume of samples required is greatly reduced. For instance, it minimizes the need for large cell cultures.
In addition, the use of encapsulation methods in [droplets](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) allows users to confine the fluorescence signal, avoiding the use of chemicals, and to perform bioassays at the single cell scale. Single cell or bacteria growth in drops can also be considered.
As the encapsulation platform for droplet sorting produces double emulsions to encapsulate cells (from 5 µm to 40 µm), the limitations of the FACS are overcome. The first limitation is that the secreted molecules are generally detectable only if a binding protocol has been performed. In the opposite case, they remain dissolved in the surrounding medium. The second is that the secreted cells significantly impact each other. Combining [droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/) and FACS technology then appears to be a major advance for research and allows users to obtain more reliable and reproducible data.
## Our selection of webinars on double emulsion for FACS
- Webinar on double emulsion for FACS
- The cell encapsulation platform
## Encapsulation of fluorescent bacteria in double emulsions for FACS
Learn how to use our double emulsion platform to encapsulate bacteria in W/O/W DE and discover the DE sorting efficiency using FACS.
**Webinar summary:**
1. Introduction to FACS sorting: technology, advantages, and drawbacks
2. Presentation of the platform: encapsulation of single bacteria in DE
3. Microscopy characterization and FACS sorting
4. Interactive Q&A session
[Access the recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
## Single cell encapsulations compatible with FACS sorting, API encapsulations in biocompatible polymers, and more.
Until now, performing high efficiency encapsulation processes continuously has been challenging, as existing technologies have limitations (low reproducibility, the need for multiple surface coatings, poor size distribution, etc). The **Raydrop encapsulation platform** from Secoya solves these issues by providing an easy-to-use system that produces highly monodisperse W/O/W or O/W/O single or double emulsion from 15 µm to 400 µm.
**Webinar Summary:**
- Theoretical presentation of the Raydrop’s encapsulation process
- Case study: encapsulation of cells, yeast, and bacteria in a small double emulsion for FACS sorting
- Case study encapsulation of API in microbeads and microcapsules
- Q&A
[Access the recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-cell-encapsulations/)
---
## Cell encapsulation platform: Examples of use
### Standard cell encapsulation platform
**The standard cell encapsulation platform** allows for **the encapsulation of single cells for high throughput screening applications** involving drug discovery, toxicity testing, various ‘omics’ studies and rare cell analysis1,2.
*Fig 1 Standard cell encapsulation platform*
### How to inject a small sample?
The encapsulation platform for flow cytometry with an injection loop is a tool capable of greatly improving working conditions as it handles fluid volumes, as low as a few dozen microliters. Adding the L-Switch is advantageous in many scientific and medical applications, making it possible to work with rarer cells.
For instance, researchers working on stem cells are often challenged by their low availability. Indeed, because of their limited distribution in time (available only during a period of human life, difficulties to self-renew into stem cells after differentiation) and space (often nested in environments favorable to their functioning, protection and regulation, which limit their dispersion in the organism) and their delicate and expensive conditions of culture, their large-scale production is not possible. Thus, to be able to work with small volumes of culture and thus a low number of cells is advantageous.
Another example is the use of primary cells, directly collected from the patient and useful for personalized medicine. Acquiring this type of cells can be logistically challenging and the available volume can also be limited. The cell encapsulation platform’s injection loop solves this predicament by enabling researchers to work with small volumes of patient-derived cells.
Finally, using this platform for FACS also allows users to limit the use of expensive reagents and to limit wastes, unlocking new possibilities in the field of biomedical research and personalized medicine.
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
*Fig 2 Cell encapsulation platform with a injection loop L Switch*
### How to add a reagent?
In many microfluidic procedures, an integrated tooling for mixing is essential for appropriate functionality in a broad range of applications.
The usual encapsulation platform for drop allowing users to integrate a **new phase for optimal agent mixing**. It **is recommended to mix two solutions in a fluidic path before encapsulation.** After the precise formation of self‐ assembled lipid or polymeric particles by microfluidic mixing, the encapsulation of active molecules is loaded into synthesized particles.
The efficiency of many biosensors and the possibility of investigating reaction kinetics with quick time resolution depends on controlled mixing. It can be also used to encapsulate cells with barcoded beads for **Next generation sequencing** ([DropSeq](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/how-to-ask-cells-what-proteins-they-produce/)), for **enzymatic tests,** or **phenotyping**5.
*Fig 3 Mixing the cell encapsulation platform with an additional Flow EZ and a Flow Unit M*
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Which applications can use the encapsulation platform for FACS?
### High-throughput screening: Cell sorting
**Cell encapsulation** can improve **high-throughput screening outcomes since the highly monodisperse droplets** provide homogeneous reaction conditions. It can be combined with cell sorting tools such as **Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS)**, to achieve higher speed and efficiency compared to conventional approaches. Benefits include:
- **Lower costs while increasing sequencing accuracy and depth:**
- Sorting and sequencing only cells containing droplets could vastly reduce reagent costs and increase accuracy and depth for downstream Next Generation Sequencing, including eliminating common issues with single-cell droplet sequencing such as reads from empty droplets due to the encapsulation of free-floating transcripts.
- **Increased range of measurement:**
- Encapsulated cells may be sorted based on phenotypes not currently measurable with standard cell sorting, such as enzymatic turnover, presence of secreted molecules, or quantification of proteins lacking cell surface markers.
- **Multi-omics profiling:**
- In contrast with conventional methods, cell sorting using microfluidics provides a unique tool to link genotypes with phenotypes through compartmentalization.
- Our cell encapsulation platform allows for the combination of single-cell phenotyping and genome-wide sequencing, enabling multiomic measurements and directly linking cellular phenotypes to their underlying genetic mechanism2.
*Figure 4 Selection of Double Emulsion Microdroplets Using a Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorter FACS*
*E Mastrobattista V Taly E Chanudet P Treacy B T Kelly A D Griffiths Chemistry Biology 2005 12 1291*
### Drug delivery
**Cell or drug encapsulation** for drug delivery consists of the **immobilization of bioactive materials**, mainly cells, **within a double emulsion, generally surrounded by a polymeric membrane**. The latter permits the free passage of nutrients and oxygen and the egress of therapeutic protein products. Encapsulation allows for **the protection of the cell content** from mechanical stress and in the case of allogeneic tissue also from **the host’s immune response**. [Microcapsules](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/) are commonly used in pharmaceutical or medical processes as drug carriers or for the encapsulation of organic cells.
Locally-implanted droplets may represent a **minimally invasive manner of delivering therapeutic proteins** such as growth factors and cytokines. It could also allow for mosaic injections containing several droplets to provide complex release profiles or multi-protein deliveries3.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)*Figure 5 Stable monodispersed microcapsules with a solid PLGA shell and an aqueous core*
### Transplants
The [microencapsulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/) of living cells may serve as an alternative therapy for patients requiring organ transplants. Researchers can **control droplets size** to mitigate the immune infiltration of transplanted cells while keeping oxygen and waste products transported. Droplets can also **immobilize cells at the desired transplant size**, which is essential as many cell therapies rely on systemic cell administration.
Cell encapsulation for cell-based therapy is emerging as a promising strategy for treating a wide range of human diseases, such as diabetes, blood disorders, acute liver failure, spinal cord injury, and several types of cancer through transplants. Pancreatic islets, blood cells, hepatocytes, and stem cells are among the many cell types currently used for this strategy. The encapsulation of these “therapeutic” cells is intended to **prevent immune rejection**, to **provide a controlled and supportive environment**, and to **enable a complete retrieval of the graft in the case of an adverse body reaction**4.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)*Figure 6 *Chitosan shelloil core microcapsules**
## Specifications
We propose 4 different platforms to target different droplet sizes.
- Platform 1
- Platform 2
- Platform 3
- Platform 4
- Software
**Description****Product****P.N**Cell encapsulation deviceCell encapsulation platform O-FACS1-PTF**Double Emulsion production device**– RayDrop Double Emulsion 30-70-45
– O-DE-RDRPC05-
EUP **Fluid handling system**– LINK Module
– Flow EZ 7 bars for all 3 phases
– LU-LNK-0002
– LU-FEZ-7000PCK**Reservoirs**
– Continuous phase:
50 mL Pcap with 50 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 500 µm
– Shell phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– Core phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– P-CAP50-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK**Flow Meters**
– Continuous phase: Flow Unit L
– Shell phase: Flow Unit M
– Core phase: Flow Unit M
– FLU-L-D
– FLU-M-D
– FLU-M-D**Optical System**
– Light source
– Microscope objective (x10)
– Specific colour camera (up to 400 fps, 1µs integration
time)
– XYZ translation stages
N/A**Tubing & Fittings**
– Tubing:
OD: 1/16 and 1/32 OD
ID: 250 µm & 500 µm
Materials: PFA
– Manual valves:
4 way valves
2 way valves
– Filters:
2 µm filter for continuous phase
2 µm filter for dispersed phase
N/A**Wetted materials**
– Platform: PEEK, PFA, PCTFE, PTFE, SS316L, GLASS
– Sealing: FFKM
N/A**Unit dimensions**
– 61 x 46 x 43cm 3 (L x W x H)
N/A**Weight**
– 4 kg without the protective wood
– 21 kg with the protective wood
N/A**Droplet Size Range**\*
25-45 µm
N/A*\* Formulation dependant*
**Description****Product****P.N**Cell encapsulation deviceCell encapsulation platformO-FACS2-PTF**Double Emulsion production device**– RayDrop Double Emulsion 30-70-60
– O-DE-RDRPC06-
EUP **Fluid handling system**– LINK Module
– Flow EZ 7 bars for all 3 phases
– LU-LNK-0002
– LU-FEZ-7000PCK**Reservoirs**
– Continuous phase:
50 mL Pcap with 50 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 500 µm
– Shell phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– Core phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– P-CAP50-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK**Flow Meters**
– Continuous phase: Flow Unit L
– Shell phase: Flow Unit M
– Core phase: Flow Unit M
– FLU-L-D
– FLU-M-D
– FLU-M-D**Optical System**
– Light source
– Microscope objective (x10)
– Specific colour camera (up to 400 fps, 1µs integration
time)
– XYZ translation stages
N/A**Tubing & Fittings**
– Tubing:
OD: 1/16 and 1/32 OD
ID: 250 µm & 500 µm
Materials: PFA
– Manual valves:
4 way valves
2 way valves
– Filters:
2 µm filter for continuous phase
2 µm filter for dispersed phase
N/A**Wetted materials**
– Platform: PEEK, PFA, PCTFE, PTFE, SS316L, GLASS
– Sealing: FFKM
N/A**Unit dimensions**
– 61 x 46 x 43cm 3 (L x W x H)
N/A**Weight**
– 4 kg without the protective wood
– 21 kg with the protective wood
N/A**Droplet Size Range**
45-60 µm
N/A*\* Formulation dependant*
**Description****Product****P.N**Cell encapsulation deviceCell encapsulation platformO-FACS3-PTF**Double Emulsion production device**– RayDrop Double Emulsion 60-120-60
– O-DE-RDRPC07-
EUP **Fluid handling system**– LINK Module
– Flow EZ 7 bars for all 3 phases
– LU-LNK-0002
– LU-FEZ-7000PCK**Reservoirs**
– Continuous phase:
50 mL Pcap with 50 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 500 µm
– Shell phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– Core phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– P-CAP50-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK**Flow Meters**
– Continuous phase: Flow Unit L
– Shell phase: Flow Unit M
– Core phase: Flow Unit M
– FLU-L-D
– FLU-M-D
– FLU-M-D**Optical System**
– Light source
– Microscope objective (x5)
– Specific colour camera (up to 400 fps, 1µs integration
time)
– XYZ translation stages
N/A**Tubing & Fittings**
– Tubing:
OD: 1/16 and 1/32 OD
ID: 250 µm & 500 µm
Materials: PFA
– Manual valves:
4 way valves
2 way valves
– Filters:
2 µm filter for continuous phase
2 µm filter for dispersed phase
N/A**Wetted materials**
– Platform: PEEK, PFA, PCTFE, PTFE, SS316L, GLASS
– Sealing: FFKM
N/A**Unit dimensions**
– 61 x 46 x 43cm 3 (L x W x H)
N/A**Weight**
– 4 kg without the protective wood
– 21 kg with the protective wood
N/A**Droplet Size Range**
50-60 µm
N/A*\* Formulation dependant*
**Description****Product****P.N**Cell encapsulation deviceCell encapsulation platformO-FACS4-PTF**Double Emulsion production device**– RayDrop Double Emulsion 60-120-90
– O-DE-RDRPC08-
EUP **Fluid handling system**– LINK Module
– Flow EZ 7 bars for all 3 phases
– LU-LNK-0002
– LU-FEZ-7000PCK**Reservoirs**
– Continuous phase:
50 mL Pcap with 50 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 500 µm
– Shell phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– Core phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– P-CAP50-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK**Flow Meters**
– Continuous phase: Flow Unit L
– Shell phase: Flow Unit M
– Core phase: Flow Unit M
– FLU-L-D
– FLU-M-D
– FLU-M-D**Optical System**
– Light source
– Microscope objective (x5)
– Specific colour camera (up to 400 fps, 1µs integration
time)
– XYZ translation stages
N/A**Tubing & Fittings**
– Tubing:
OD: 1/16 and 1/32 OD
ID: 250 µm & 500 µm
Materials: PFA
– Manual valves:
4 way valves
2 way valves
– Filters:
2 µm filter for continuous phase
2 µm filter for dispersed phase
N/A**Wetted materials**
– Platform: PEEK, PFA, PCTFE, PTFE, SS316L, GLASS
– Sealing: FFKM
N/A**Unit dimensions**
– 61 x 46 x 43cm 3 (L x W x H)
N/A**Weight**
– 4 kg without the protective wood
– 21 kg with the protective wood
N/A**Droplet Size Range**
70-90 µm
N/A*\* Formulation dependant*
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## References
1. Steele, J.A.M. *et al.* (2014) “Therapeutic cell encapsulation techniques and applications in diabetes,” *Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews*, 67-68, pp. 74–83. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addr.2013.09.015.
2. `Collins, D.J. et al. (2015) “The Poisson distribution and beyond: Methods for microfluidic droplet production and single cell encapsulation,” Lab on a Chip, 15(17), pp. 3439–3459. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1039/c5lc00614g.`
3. `Headen, D.M., García, J.R. and García, A.J. (2018) “Parallel droplet microfluidics for high throughput cell encapsulation and synthetic microgel generation,” Microsystems & Nanoengineering, 4(1). Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/micronano.2017.76.`
4. `Farina, M. et al. (2019) “Cell encapsulation: Overcoming barriers in cell transplantation in diabetes and beyond,” Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 139, pp. 92–115. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addr.2018.04.018.`
5. Damiati, S. *et al.* (2018) “Microfluidic devices for drug delivery systems and drug screening,” *Genes*, 9(2), p. 103. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/genes9020103.
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Raydrop Cleaning Procedure Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-cleaning-procedure/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Cell Encapsulation Platform User’s Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cell-encapsulation-platform-users-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Cell encapsulation platform Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/cell-encapsulation-platform-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT+ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-plus-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Raydrop | A new droplet generation device based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/the-raydrop-a-new-droplet-generation-device-based-on-non-embedded-co-flow-focusing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Packs
---
### [UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
**Published:** March 12, 2024
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the UV-crosslinked microcapsules production platform
### Fluigent and Secoya’s Precision and Flexibility
Achieve precise emulsion generation with Fluigent’s advanced pressure-based flow controllers and Secoya’s RayDrop device. This technology enables the platform to create robust and monodispersed emulsions, allowing for **accurate control over droplet size** and **shell thickness**.
### Streamlined and User-Friendly Engineered Solution
A fully equipped, mounted, and meticulously controlled tool designed for direct microcapsule production, with easy priming and cleaning processes. Benefit from specialized optics tailored for superior droplet visualization at high frequencies, ensuring optimized results.
### In-situ UV crosslinking process
Experience easy monitoring of emulsion formation with the UV movable module. Equipped with **anti-UV glass windows**, it ensures safe experimentation. UV light source (365 nm) initiates polymer cross-linking, resulting in solid capsules. With adjustable tubing inclination, the collection is simplified. The in-situ cross-linking process prevents coalescence, ensuring superior results.
### UV module of the platform
[**DATASHEET**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
[**USER MANUAL**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/uv-module/)
[**PROTOCOL**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/protocol-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## UV-crosslinked microcapsules as a versatile tool in research
**Core-shell microcapsules** have emerged as pivotal tools in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries for material delivery and release. In pharmaceutics, there’s a growing interest in encapsulating drugs, nutrients, and living cells within solid biocompatible shells to precisely target specific sites, driving intensive research efforts. As another type of application, microcapsules can be used as independent crystallization vessels for both small molecules and macromolecules such as proteins, salts, and chemical materials, affording scientists both low-scale experiments and screening capacities for the characterization of novel compounds, including screening polymorphism.
Schematic of core-shell microcapsules for drug delivery (From Ahmad, S. U. *et al.*, Vet Pharm & Therapeutics 2021, 44 (3), 298–312.)
Microcapsule of 250µm with shell thickness adjustment between 10µm to 50µm.
However, classical microencapsulation methods like coacervation, spray drying, and solvent evaporation require complex processes and equipment, posing challenges in controlling microcapsule size and load.
Microfluidics offers a new approach, enabling the **production of monodisperse double emulsions** that yield uniformly sized microcapsules with precise control over structure. This technology allows for the easy encapsulation of aqueous solutions containing proteins or active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), as well as oily solutions containing lipophilic or poorly water-soluble drugs.
To transform the produced double emulsions into capsules, various methods of shell curing can be used depending on the shell nature such as solvent evaporation or precipitation (for PLGA capsules), ionic crosslinking (for alginate capsules), or chemical cross-linking (for chitosan capsules). Most frequently, UV light crosslinking (for PEGDA capsules) is used to produce polymeric capsules as it has the advantage of being solvent-free and is rapid compared to other curing methods.
## How to use the platform to produce UV-crosslinked microcapsules
The platform is comprised of four main components: mechanics, fluidics, optics, and a UV module.
- **Mechanics:** It features x-y-z displacement plates to adjust focus and observation windows embedded in the RayDrop device.
- **Fluidics:** This includes flowrate controllers, tubing, valves, Falcon reservoirs, and the RayDrop for automated fluid injection. Filters are incorporated after each reservoir to eliminate impurities that could affect the RayDrop. The core phase can also be injected through an injection loop for encapsulation.
Experimental set-up to produce double emulsions. It includes double reservoirs for the shell and core phases and an injection loop.
The RayDrop utilizes emulsification technology to produce controlled double emulsions, typically stabilized with surfactants.
**Nozzle information**:
**Part** **Core nozzle** **Size-shell nozzle** **Size-extraction capillary** **Inside diameter (µm)** 90 160450
Picture of the RayDrop
Scheme of the RayDrop
- **Optics:** The optical section consists of an LED light source and a color USB 3.0 camera connected to a computer for live observation of droplet formation, emulsion stability control, and size measurement.
- **UV module:** The UV module section creates mobility via a displacement plate for observing emulsion formation and stability at the RayDrop exit. Two windows with anti-UV glass ensure safe observation. A UV light source at 365nm initiates resin cross-linking in the tubing, resulting in hard-shell capsules, which can be collected in a vial with adjustable tubing inclination.
The UV module precisely controls the cross linking of the resin shell
## Example of Use: Production of UV-crosslinked microcapsules for crystallization
*Based on the publication: [Single crystal formation in core-shell capsules](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2023/cc/d3cc03727d "Single crystal formation in core-shell capsules"), M. Mettler et al., Chemical communications 2023*
In this application example, the scope of microfluidic-based crystallization methods is extended by **introducing solid microcapsules**.
Hundreds of identical microcapsules were generated per second, creating a fast screening of crystallization conditions.
XRD analyses were performed directly on encapsulated single crystals, demonstrating the potential of this process for the identification of compounds.
Schematic representation of the process from double emulsion generation to crystal formation and analysis in microcapsule. (M. Mettler et al., Chem. Commun., 2023, 59, 12739–12742)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
### *Reagents:*
- Continuous phase: Distilled water containing 2% Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA)
- Shell phase: Commercial Allnex methacrylate-based resin containing 20% of ethyl acetate) and 0.1% wt of photoinitiator Diphenyl(2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl) phosphine oxide (TPO).
- Core phase: Distilled water with the molecule to crystallize (ammonium sulfate, copper (II) sulfate, glycerol, glycine, sodium chloride, proteinase K, or lysozyme).
### *Brief Protocol:*
To generate a double emulsion, the system must first be primed with pure solvent in the shell phase. Once droplet formation is stable, the shell phase is switched to the methacrylate solution. This helps avoid clogging issues during the transient phase.
To form solid particles, the generated emulsion is irradiated by UV light. The photoinitiator reacts to the light and initiates a cross-linking with the methacrylate-based shell. A chain-growth mechanism is enabled, leading to a three-dimensional network.
### *Key Benefits and results:*
- **Tailored Control:** Adjust flow rates of continuous, shell, and core phases to control double emulsion size and shell thickness, ensuring precise experimentation.
- **Mechanically Stable Capsules:** Produced capsules are mechanically stable, allowing for easy handling and transport, ideal for in-situ crystal analysis.
- **High Throughput Screening:** Produces hundreds of capsules per second, each serving as independent crystallization vessels for various molecules, enabling efficient condition screening.
- **Adaptable Configuration:** Customize capsule size by modifying the RayDrop’s configuration, giving user’s experimentation flexibility.
- **Versatile Application:** Extend this approach to encapsulate various compounds and shell polymers, expanding your research possibilities.
- **Unlock the potential of the RayDrop for your crystallization experiments.**
Shell thickness evolution in function of the shell phase flow rate. (M. Mettler et al., Chem. Commun., 2023, 59, 12739–12742)
UV crosslinked microcapsules production (M. Mettler et al., Chem. Commun., 2023, 59, 12739–12742)
### Related Application Note
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### UV-Crosslinking of Microparticles
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
## Webinar Recording – Single crystal formation in core-shell microcapsules
You need more information? Don’t miss our exclusive webinar on **“[Controlled UV-crosslinked Microcapsule Production using Microfluidic Technology](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production/ "Controlled UV-crosslinked Microcapsule Production using Microfluidic Technology")“**.
Discover the latest advancements in core-shell microcapsule technology and its revolutionary impact on drug delivery, nutrient encapsulation, crystallization, and compound characterization.
Learn how to generate hundreds of identical UV-crosslinked microcapsules per second, produced by Secoya Technologies’ RayDrop and its all-in-one platform.
[Watch the replay](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production/)
## Specifications
- Technical Specifications
- Softwares
DescriptionProductPart NumberUV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform – O-DE-STDWR-PTF
– O-SP-UVL365-PTF**Double Emulsion Production Device**RayDrop double Emulsion 90-160-450 O-DE-RDRPC02-EUP **Fluid Handling System**– Link Module
– Flow EZ 7 bar for all 3 phases – LU-LNK-0002
– LU-FEZ-7000PCKReservoirs – Continuous phase:
50 mL Pcap with 50 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 500 µm
– Shell phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm
– Core phase:
15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tube
Tubing: 125 µm – P-CAP50-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCK
– P-CAP15-HP-PCKFlow Meters – Continuous phase: Flow Unit L
– Shell phase: Flow Unit M
– Core phase: Flow Unit M – FLU-L-D
– FLU-M-D
– FLU-M-D Optical System – Light source
– Microscope objective (x10)
– Specific color camera (up to 400 fps, 1µs integration
time)
– XYZ translation stages N/A UV module – UV led head 365:
Wavelength: 365 nm
Peak Irradiance: 1000 mW/cm2 at 10mm (with focus lens)
Optics for 5 mm spot at 5 mm
External Diameter: 12 mm
– UV control Unit:
Input voltage 84 – 264V AC
Max power delivered: 50W (24 VDC – 2,1 A)
– RayDrop holder, UV protective box and a glass capillary O-SP-UVL365-PTFTubing & Fittings – Tubing:
OD: 1/16 and 1/32 OD
ID: 250 µm & 500 µm
Materials: PFA
– Manual valves:
4 way valves
2 way valves
– Filters:
2 µm filter for continuous phase
2 µm filter for dispersed phase
N/A Wetted materials – Platform: PEEK, PFA, PCTFE, PTFE, SS316L, GLASS
– Sealing: FFKM N/A Unit dimensions – 61 x 46 x 43cm 3 (L x W x H) N/A Weight – 5 kg without the protective hood
– 22 kg with the protective hood N/A Droplet Size Range (Formulation and RayDrop configuration dependent) –180 -400 µm N/A
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- [
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Platform for emulsions & droplets
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
- [
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Remove air bubbles from your system
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Fluid Degassing Device for Microfluidic System
**Microfluidic Fluid Degassing Device**
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device/)
## Expertise & Resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Raydrop Cleaning Procedure Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-cleaning-procedure/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Creating Microcapsules With PEGDA Hydrogel Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pegda-hydrogel-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual User Manual – UV Module Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/uv-module/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Protocol – UV crosslinked microcapsule production platform Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/protocol-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Datasheet – UV crosslinked microcapsule production platform Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Microfluidic Control of Complex Emulsions for Chemical Sensing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/complex-emulsions/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Agarose Microcapsules Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microparticles Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Packs
---
### [Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
“My team has started using the Fluigent microfluidic kit for making polymer based particles. We tried different microfluidic systems in the past but unfortunately they were not suitable for our application. The main issue was chip blockage which rendered the process quite laborious.
The RayDrop microfluidic chip from Fluigent gave us the best results with a better control over the process.
I have to mention the excellent technical support from Fluigent, their team visited my lab 3 times to deliver training and help to optimize the process”
**Dr Omar QUTACHI** – **Senior Lecturer in Pharmaceutics** – **Health and Life Sciences** – **Montfort University , The Gateway, Leicester**
## Features of the Microfluidic Droplet Generator
### A flexible device
Droplet size from 20 µm to 450 µm diameter. Frequency of up to 10 000 Hz. Water-in-oil (w/o) and oil-in-water (o/w) droplets.
### A unique device
One device for multiple applications
### Surface coating-free
As opposed to standard droplet makers, the Raydrop does not require any surface coating steps.
### Easy to use
- Standard connection (Upchurch).
- No surfactant for droplet generation.
- Easy-to-clean, exchangeable nozzle.
- Full disassembly for cleaning.
- Easy microscope visualization.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## Description of the RayDrop droplet maker
Single emulsions are mixed systems consisting of two immiscible liquids in which the inner phase is **homogeneously dispersed** in the continuous phase in a droplet-wise manner. The single emulsion microfluidic method produces different microsized W/O or O/W emulsion droplets with the desired **homogeneous size, shape and tailored structure** by simply tuning the experimental parameters, such as pressure, flow rate and regimen, dimensionless parameters (e.g., Reynolds and capillary numbers), as well as taking advantage of the properties of the two fluid phases (interfacial tension and viscosity (1).
The **RayDrop Single Emulsion Device**, developed and manufactured by [**Secoya technologies**](https://secoya-tech.com/products/raydrop-droplet-generator/), relies on the alignment of two glass capillaries inside a pressurised chamber. A **3D-printed micro-nozzle** is additionally connected at the tip of the injection capillary, enforcing the dripping (fluids flow at low rates) of **small droplets**. This non-embedded design presents both the characteristics of a co-flow (axisymetric geometry) and a flow focusing (dramatic local accelerations of the continuous phase), and is thereby called non-embedded co-flow focusing (2). The nozzle and outlet capillary are aligned in the continuous phase chamber, the dispersed phase comes through the nozzle to create the microparticles into the continuous phase and exit by the outlet insert.
**The technological breakthroughs of RayDrop Single Emulsion Device’s design is two-fold:**
- Firstly, the droplet maker enables the **high-throughput generation of monodisperse droplets** intrinsic to the dripping regime for a wide variety of fluids, due to the continuous phase not being confined before entering the extraction capillary, allowing for the flushing of viscous continuous phases.
- Secondly, the microfluidic droplet generator benefits from **specific fabrication techniques** and materials compatible with a large-scale production of the device, while ensuring a precise and reproducible alignment of the two capillaries in the chamber (2).
### Secoya, Raydrop Microfluidic Droplet Generator
### The Single Emulsion Device is characterised by:
**– Nozzle on the extraction capillary:**
- High throughput of small droplets/bubbles without high pressure drop
- Increased squeezing for fluids with low interfacial tension
**– Co-flow of two miscible phases for nanoparticle production:**
- Very homogeneous conditions at the fluids interface due to the axisymmetry.
- Production of nanoparticles and liposomes with a small size distribution
The Single Emulsion Device is available in three standard configurations (Nozzle size-Extraction capillary size), in order to target a broader droplet size range:
- 30µm-150µm
- 60µm-300µm
- 90µm-450µm
As all capillaries from the RayDrop Single Emulsion Device are easily exchangeable, it’s easy to change either the nozzle capillary or the collecting capillary with another nozzle or capillary size.
The droplet maker can also be tuned to target different [droplet sizes](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/) by changing capillary size and nozzle configuration.
Small droplet configuration: **30µm-60µm**
Small droplet configuration: **30µm-70µm-90µm**
This two nozzle configuration allows users to decrease single emulsion size **down to 15µm droplet size**.
## WEBINAR REPLAY – Raydrop, a universal droplet generator based on a non embedded co flow focusing
Most commercial microfluidic droplet generators rely on the planar flow-focusing configuration implemented in polymer or glass chips. The planar geometry, however, suffers from many limitations and drawbacks, such as the need of specific coatings or the use of dedicated surfactants, depending on the fluids in play. On the contrary, and thanks to their axisymmetric geometry, glass capillary-based droplet generators are a priori not fluid-dependent. Nevertheless, they have never reached the market because their assembly requires art-dependent and not scalable fabrication techniques.
In the context of a growing demand of controlled droplets in many areas, discover the Raydrop that emerges as a very robust and versatile solution easily implementable in laboratories with little experience and facilities in microfluidics.
Watch our **webinar ‘Raydrop, a universal droplet generator based on a non embedded co flow focusing’** to learn more about the features and performance of the RayDrop Single Emulsion Device. In this webinar, we present the advantages of the Raydrop as compared to conventional microfluidic droplet generators, which are usually made in PolyDiMethilSiloxane (PDMS) using laborious and not scalable fabrication steps and require special coatings depending on the type of emulsion the user wants to make.
This webinar was done in collaboration with our partner Secoya Technologies.
**What you will learn**:
- Introduction to droplet-based microfluidics
- Current method & technologies present on the market droplet & emulsion production
- Understand the advantages & challenges of droplet-based microfluidics
- Discover a new method for droplet and emulsion production
**Speakers:**
Adrien Dewandre, Technology Lead, Secoya Technologies
Adam Meziane, Product manager, Fluigent
Benoit Scheid, Professor, Université libre de Bruxelles
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Product offering
- FAQ
**Device characteristics**Co-Flow focusing design**Droplet type**water in oil and oil in water **Droplet size**15 to 450 µm**Generation rate**10 000 Hz (measured for the smallest double emulsion size) – can go higher under specific conditions**Nozzle type**Methalcrylate resin
Glass**Nozzle size**30 µm ID
60 µm ID
90 µm ID **Outlet capillary**150 µm ID
300 µm ID
450 µm ID **External dimensions**L\*l\*h = 60 mm \* 40 mm \* 13 mm**Weight**205**Operating pressure**0 – 5 bar**Burst pressure**10 bar**Wetted material: continuous phase**PEEK, FEP, glass, stainless steel, polyimide, Kalrez (seal), methalcrylate resin or glass (nozzle) **Wetted laterial: dispersed phase** PEEK, FEP, glass, methalcrylate resin or glass (nozzle) **Internal volume**600µL
**PN****Product Name****Capillary sizes****Nozzle type**1DPRD01Complete Raydrop30µm-150µmMethacrylate ResinORDRPSE-60-300Complete Raydrop60µm-300µmMethacrylate ResinORDRPSE-90-450Complete Raydrop90µm-450µmMethacrylate ResinO-SE-RDRPC04-EUPComplete Raydrop30µm-60µmMethacrylate Resin
O-SE-RDRPC05-EUPComplete Raydrop30µm-90µmMethacrylate ResinO-SE-RDRPC06-EUPComplete Raydrop60µm-90µmMethacrylate Resin ORDRPSNO-30Simple nozzle insert30µmMethacrylate ResinORDRPSNO-60Simple nozzle insert60µmMethacrylate ResinORDRPSNO-90Simple nozzle insert90µmMethacrylate ResinORDRPCOL-150Collecting capillary insert150µmGlassO-SP-CCI300-COCollecting capillary insert300µmGlassO-SP-CCI450-COCollecting capillary insert450µmGlassO-SE-RDRPC01G-EUPComplete Raydrop30µm-150µmGlassO-SE-RDRPC02G-EUPComplete Raydrop60µm-300µmGlassO-SE-RDRPC03G-EUPComplete Raydrop90µm-450µmGlassO-SE-GSNO30-EUPSimple nozzle insert30µmGlassO-SE-GSNO60-EUPSimple nozzle insert60µmGlassO-SE-GSNO90-EUPSimple nozzle insert90µmGlass
- ### How to clean the RayDrop
It is important to clean the RayDrop after each experiment in order to prevent clogging.
Refer to the [good practice guide](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/good-practice-guide-plga-station/) for the detailed procedure.
- ### How to avoid air bubble infiltration
Make sure that all tubing is well flushed before connecting the RayDrop.
- ### All my fittings are tight but there is still water flowing out from the RayDrop window
If the RayDrop has been manipulated (for cleaning or maintenance) the four screws might not be tightened enough.
Use an allen key to tighten.
- ### There is a fluid leak coming out from the sides of the RayDrop
Leaks can sometimes appear if the fluidic connectors are not tightened enough.
Check that all the connectors are attached firmly.
(Be careful not to over tighten or your tubing may be blocked by pinching)
- ### There is an air bubble in the RayDrop. How to get rid of it
Open the top plugs of the RayDrop.
Return to the RayDrop filling state.
Refer to the application note protocol.
- ### Do I need to filter my solutions?
Yes, we recommend filtering all solutions before starting your experiment. The presence of dust can block the nozzle.
- ### Which solvent is compatible with the RayDrop?
As chemicals, can be used ethylacetate, ethanol or IPA. (The nozzle material is **not compatible at long-term use** with dichloromethane)
- ### Capillary size influence
With the XS FLOW UNIT, the diameter of the capillary is small: 25 µm, so depending on the size of your system, you may need to push your fluids harder to obtain a given flow-rate. Then the maximum pressure drop between the sides of the XS FLOW UNIT model at maximum flow-rate is 0.8 bar.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Interviews & Testimonials
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Raydrop Cleaning Procedure Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-cleaning-procedure/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Using dSurf for High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry (LuMIn) Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/droplet-micro-thermometry-lumin/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Microfluidics for Alginate Microbeads Production – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/microfluidics-for-alginate-microbeads-production-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 2: How To Clean the Nozzle (1/3) ? – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-2-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-1-3-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 1: How To Fill the Raydrop ? – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-1-how-to-fill-the-raydrop-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 3: How To Clean the Nozzle (2/3) – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-3-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-2-3-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 4: How To Clean the Nozzle (3/3) – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-4-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-3-3-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 6: How To Change Nozzle ? – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-6-how-to-change-nozzle-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 5: How To Clean the Chamber – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-5-how-to-clean-the-chamber-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [ Interviews & Testimonials Interview with Benoit Scheid from Secoya Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/interview-with-benoit-scheidfrom-secoya/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Raydrop single emulsion datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-single-emulsion-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microparticles Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Fluorocarbon Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-fluorocarbon-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Oil in Water Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### PLGA Microparticle Production Standard Pack
PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Standard Pack)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-production-station/)
- [
### Alginate Bead Generation Pack
Alginate Bead Generation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/)
- [
### Liposome Production Pack
Produce liposomes reproducibly over the size range from 40 nm to 150 nm
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
## Accessories
- [
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
## Kits
- [
### RayDrop Single Emulsion tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/raydrop-tubing-fitting-kit/)
## REFERENCES
1. Fontana, F., Ferreira, M., Correia, A., Hirvonen, J., & Santos, H. (2016). Microfluidics as a cutting-edge technique for drug delivery applications. *Journal Of Drug Delivery Science And Technology*, *34*, 76-87. doi: 10.1016/j.jddst.2016.01.010
2. Dewandre, Adrien & Rivero-Rodriguez, Javier & Vitry, Youen & Sobac, Benjamin & Scheid, Benoit. (2020). Raydrop : a universal droplet generator based on a non-embedded co-flow-focusing.
**Catégories de produit:** Droplet Generation Microfluidic Chips
---
### [Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the Double Emulsion Generator
### A unique device
Perform double emulsions in **one single device**.
### A flexible device
Droplet size from 25 µm to 450µm outer diameter.
Frequency of up to 5 000 Hz.
Water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) and oil-in-water-in-oil (o/w/o) within the same device.
### User-friendly
Exchangeable nozzles that are easy to disassemble and clean with clear water. microscope visualization and the ability to connect with standard tubing and nuts.
### Surface coating not required
As opposed to standard double emulsion microfluidic chips, the Raydrop does **not** require any **surface coating** steps. The double emulsion device also does **not** require any **surfactant** for droplet generation.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## Description of the double emulsion microfluidic chip
Most [commercially available and lab-made droplet generators](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/) are based on a flow-focusing technology implemented in rectangular microchannels fabricated by lithography and made of **polydimethylsiloxane** (PDMS), **polymers** or **glass**. However, this planar configuration has many limitations due to the contact between the walls of the **microchannels** and both phases at the junction, requiring laborious and often ephemeral wettability **treatments** of these walls. On the contrary, due to their axisymmetric configuration, glass capillary systems do not have this drawback since the dispersed phase is **never in contact** with the walls of the outer capillary.
Therefore, The RayDrop double emulsion device relies on the alignment of two **glass capillaries** inside a **pressurized chamber**. A 3D-printed micro-nozzle is additionally connected at the tip of the injection capillary, enforcing the dripping of small droplets. This non-embedded design presents both the characteristics of a **co-flow** (axisymmetric geometry) and a **flow-focusing** (dramatic local accelerations of the continuous phase), and is thereby called non-embedded co-flow-focusing.
TheRayDrop double emulsion chip can be used for many applications from encapsulation of **active pharmaceutical ingredients** to cell and fragrance encapsulation in [polymer microcapsules](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/).
The design is known as a “technological breakthrough” due to the following:
- Its ability to enable **high-throughput** generation of **monodisperse** droplets for a wide variety of fluids, due to the continuous phase not being confined before entering the extraction capillary, and allowing for the flushing of viscous continuous phases.
- The double emulsion device is “**plug-and-play**” because of its standard connections and the possibility to easily assemble and disassemble all parts for cleaning.
In the context of a growing demand of controlled droplets in many areas, the Raydrop double emulsion device emerges as a robust and versatile solution, easily implementable in both laboratories with little experience and microfluidic facilities.
The RayDrop Double emulsion is available in three different standard configurations (Core Nozzle size-Shell Nozzle size-Extraction capillary size):
30 µm – 70 µm – 150µm
60 µm -120 µm – 300 µm
90 µm -160 µm -450 µm
As all capillaries from the RayDrop double emulsion device are easily exchangeable, users can **change** either the **nozzle capillary** or the **collecting capillary** with another nozzle or capillary size.
It can also be tuned to target different droplet size by changing **capillaries size** and **nozzle configuration**:
[Small droplet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/what-is-the-best-method-for-microencapsulation-of-bacteria-and-yeast-in-small-double-emulsions/) configuration: 30µm-70µm-90µmThis two-nozzle configuration allows the device to decrease double emulsion size **down to 50 µm.**
The versatility of the RayDrop double emulsion device allows for proper operation, independently of the wetting properties of the materials in contact with the fluids, and independently of the physicochemical properties of these fluids (interfacial tension, viscosity, density, miscibility).
It additionally indicates that tuning the diameters of the nozzle tip and/or the extraction capillary enables it to cover a wide range of droplet diameters with any given fluid, a feature unachievable with other single devices.
**Check out our webinar to learn more about the RayDrop double emulsion device**
- A universal droplet generator based on a non embedded co flow focusing
- Discover a new method for double emulsion production
- Master the production of Double Emulsions
## Raydrop, a universal droplet generator based on a non embedded co flow focusing
Most commercial microfluidic droplet generators rely on the planar flow-focusing configuration implemented in polymer or glass chips. The planar geometry, however, suffers from many limitations and drawbacks, such as the need of specific coatings or the use of dedicated surfactants, depending on the fluids in play.
On the contrary, and thanks to their axisymmetric geometry, glass capillary-based droplet generators are a priori not fluid-dependent. Nevertheless, they have never reached the market because their assembly requires art-dependent and not scalable fabrication techniques.
In the context of a growing demand of controlled droplets in many areas, discover the Raydrop that emerges as a very robust and versatile solution easily implementable in laboratories with little experience and facilities in microfluidics.
**What you will learn**:
- Introduction to droplet-based microfluidics
- Current method & technologies present on the market droplet & emulsion production
- Understand the advantages & challenges of droplet-based microfluidics
- Discover a new method for droplet and emulsion production
## Webinar recording – Double emulsion production made easy: a reliable device
Are you working in academia or industry in the field of cosmetic, food, pharma, or chemical process? If you are looking for solutions and methods to improve and gain performance in generating the right double-emulsion for your needs, this online workshop may be of benefit to you. Until now, generating double emulsions has been a challenge as existing technologies suffer from various limitations (low reproducibility, …).
Nov 17th 2020**Overview**
Whereas double emulsion is a promising method for many applications, technologies to make double emulsion such as batch methods are all suffering from various limitations (low reproducibility, big size distribution…)
Microfluidics which consist of precisely control fluids at micrometric scale is a promising technology for making double emulsion. However, this technology requires microfluidic chips and devices made of specific materials ( mostly hydrophobic such as PDMS or hydrophilic such as Glass ). Physical properties of the materials remains a big limitation for double emulsion because allow generating simple emulsion (w/o, o/w) but it’s become almost impossible to reach double emulsion (w/o/w or o/w/o) without using a chemical coating on the chip which has a lifetime and is not robust enough for long term production.
During this webinar, we are going to present the only device available on the market which allows to easily produce double emulsion with any kind of solution without chemical surface treatments needed.
**Speakers:**
## Webinar recording – Master the production of Double Emulsions
Are you working in academia or industry in the field of cosmetic, food, pharma, or chemical process? If you are looking for solutions and methods to improve and gain performance in generating the right double-emulsion for your needs, this online workshop may benefit you. Until now, generating double emulsions has been a challenge as existing technologies suffer from various limitations (low reproducibility, need for multiple surface coatings, big size distribution, etc.).
April 27 and 29, 2021**This replay features the highlights and key takeaways from the 4 sessions. It covers:**
- Presentation of double emulsion generation using Raydrop
- Live demonstration on how to make double emulsions
- The most asked questions & answers from 4 sessions
---
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Product offering
- FAQ
**Device characteristics**Co-Flow focusing design**Droplet type**water in oil in water and oil in water in oil**Double emulsion size**Shell: 50 to 140 µm
Core: 20 to 120 µm**Generation rate**5 000 Hz (measured for the smallest double emulsion size) – can go higher under specific conditions**Nozzle type**Methalcrylate resin**Nozzle size**Core: 30 µm ID
Shell: 70 µm ID**Outlet capillary**150 µm ID**External dimensions**L\*l\*h = 92,5 mm \* 52 mm \* 13,5 mm**Weight**405**Operating pressure**0 – 5 bar**Burst pressure**10 bar**Wetted material: continuous phase**PEEK, FEP, glass, stainless steel, polyimide, Kalrez (seal), methalcrylate resin or glass (nozzle) **Wetted laterial: dispersed phase** PEEK, FEP, glass, methalcrylate resin or glass (nozzle) **Internal volume**600µL
**PN****Product name****Capillary sizes****Nozzle type**ORDRPDE-30-70-150Complete Raydrop30µm-70µm-150µmMethacrylate ResinO-DE-RDRPC04-EUPComplete Raydrop30µm-70µm-90µmMethacrylate ResinO-SP-DNI3070-CODouble nozzle insert30µm-70µmMethacrylate ResinORDRPSNO-90Simple nozzle insert90µmMethalcrylate resinORDRPSNO-60Simple nozzle insert60µmMethacrylate ResinORDRPCOL-150Collecting capillary insert150µmGlass
- [### Which solvent is compatible with the RayDrop?](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/which-solvent-is-compatible-with-the-raydrop/)
- [### Do I need to filter my solutions?](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/do-i-need-to-filter-my-solutions/)
- [### There is an air bubble in the RayDrop. How to get rid of it](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/there-is-an-air-bubble-in-the-raydrop-how-to-get-rid-of-it/)
- [### There is a fluid leak coming out from the sides of the RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/there-is-a-fluid-leak-coming-out-from-the-sides-of-the-raydrop/)
- [### All my fittings are tight but there is still water flowing out from the RayDrop window](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/all-my-fittings-are-tight-but-there-is-still-water-flowing-out-from-the-raydrop-window/)
- [### How to clean the RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/how-to-clean-the-raydrop/)
- [### How to avoid air bubble infiltration](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/customer-tools/faq/how-to-avoid-air-bubble-infiltration/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Raydrop Cleaning Procedure Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-cleaning-procedure/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Creating Microcapsules With PEGDA Hydrogel Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pegda-hydrogel-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 2: How To Clean the Nozzle (1/3) ? – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-2-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-1-3-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 1: How To Fill the Raydrop ? – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-1-how-to-fill-the-raydrop-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 3: How To Clean the Nozzle (2/3) – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-3-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-2-3-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 4: How To Clean the Nozzle (3/3) – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-4-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-3-3-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 6: How To Change Nozzle ? – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-6-how-to-change-nozzle-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos RayDrop Tutorial episode 5: How To Clean the Chamber – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-5-how-to-clean-the-chamber-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos DOUBLE EMULSION PRODUCTION: RayDrop Method – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/double-emulsion-production-raydrop-method-tutorial-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Agarose Microcapsules Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microbubble formation using the RayDrop Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Raydrop double emulsions protocol Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-double-emulsions-protocol/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Raydrop double emulsions datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-double-emulsions-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## Related products
- [
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Double Emulsion Generation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
- [
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Platform for emulsions & droplets
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
## Accessories
- [
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Droplet Generation Microfluidic Chips
---
### [Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the complex emulsion platform
### Start emulsion production right away
The system is a fully equipped, mounted and controlled tool to set up complex emulsion, microparticle and microcapsule production processes.
### An engineered system
Simplified handling with an organized system. Easy priming and cleaning processes for better robustness. Dedicated optics for optimized droplet visualization at high frequency, and holder for air bubble troubleshooting.
### Fluigent precision
Produce robust, highly monodisperse emulsions using Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers and the Raydrop.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## Cutting-edge technology for complex emulsion production
The complex emulsion production platform includes an organized flow path with pressure controllers, filters, flowmeters, and valves to facilitate start-up, shut-down, and cleaning of the system between runs. Dedicated optics are included to optimize visualization of complex emulsion production at high generation frequency.
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- New platform for complex emulsion generation
- Mastering production of Double Emulsions
- Polymerization of microfluidics-produced liquid crystal double emulsions
## Workshop Replay – New platform for complex emulsion generation
Are you looking for improved performance in generating the right type of droplet-based emulsions for your needs? This online workshop may be of benefit to you.
- Learn how to generate droplet-based emulsions from simple single droplet to complex
- Discover the complex emulsion production platform that combines fluid handling, a microfluidic emulsion generator and an optical monitoring system
- Have live discussions with our experts about your specific application
- Gain familiarity with the newest materials and methods for generating highly monodispersed emulsions
## Workshop Replay – Mastering production of Double Emulsions
This upcoming online workshop offers solutions and methods for improving complex emulsion production to enhance performance and meet your specific needs. Existing technologies for producing double emulsions have faced several limitations, such as low reproducibility, the requirement for multiple surface coatings, and large size distribution, among others, making generation of double emulsions a challenging task – until now. This replay features highlights and key takeaways from the 4 sessions.
It covers:
- Presentation of double emulsion generation using Raydrop
- Live demonstration of how to make double emulsions
- The most frequently asked questions & answers from 4 sessions
## Webinar – Polymerization of microfluidics-produced liquid crystal double emulsions
**𝗣𝗼𝗹𝘆𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗺𝗶𝗰𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗹𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗶𝗰𝘀-𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗲𝗱 𝗹𝗶𝗾𝘂𝗶𝗱 𝗰𝗿𝘆𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗱𝗼𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗲𝗺𝘂𝗹𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘄𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗽𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻-𝘀𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗿𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀.**
By combining the exquisite control of microfluidic double emulsion production with the self-assembly of liquid crystals, spherical shells with peculiar optical properties can be produced at high throughput and excellent reproducibility.
In this webinar by the Experimental Soft Matter Physics (ESMP) group at the University of Luxembourg in collaboration with Fluigent, we will demonstrate, first, that the liquid crystal shells form a rich and intriguing platform for innovative photonics research.
---
## Benefits of the platform
The **Complex Emulsion production platform** is designed for **droplet** (single and double emulsion), **microparticle and microcapsule** production for encapsulation of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients or other reagents inside different materials such as polymers ([**PLGA**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/), [**UV polymerized**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/) materials), hydrogels and more.
### An engineered system
Simplified handling with an organized system. Easy priming and cleaning processes for better robustness. Dedicated optics for optimized droplet visualization at high frequency, and holder for air bubble troubleshooting.
### Fluigent precision
Produce robust and highly monodisperse emulsions using Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers and the Raydrop.
Water in Oil
## Perform high monodisperse and reproducible droplet generation
Controlling the droplet generation process is one of the important and central topics of microfluidics. As microfluidics is still a very new topic, it can be difficult to work with and get used to in comparison to other well-known technologies (batch method). There is a clear need for an easy-to-use complex emulsion production platform that is capable of producing droplets in a controlled manner, with high reproducibility and accuracy.
### SINGLE EMULSION
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)[**Water in Oil**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)[**Oil in Water**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)[**UV polymerised resin microparticle**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/ "Generation of microparticle with a UV-crosslinked polymer")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)[**PLGA Microparticle**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/ "PLGA Microparticle")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)[**Alginate Microparticle**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
### DOUBLE EMULSION
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)[**Water in Oil in Water**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/ "Water in Oil in Water")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)[**Oil in Water in Oil**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/ "Oil in Water in Oil")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)[**UV polymerised resin microcapsule**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/ "UV polymerised resin microcapsule")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)[**PLGA microcapsules**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/ "PLGA microcapsule synthesis")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)[**Chitosan microcapsules**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/ "Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production")
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Softwares
- FAQ
DescriptionProductPart Number**Double Emulsion Production Device**Raydrop Double Emulsion (30-70-150)ORDRPDE-30-70-150**Fluid Handling System**1\*Link Module
3\*Flow EZ 7 bar for all 3 phasesLU-LNK-0002
LU-FEZ-7000**Reservoirs**Continuous phase: 1\*50mL Pcap with 50mL Falcon tube
Shell Phase: 2\*15mL Pcap with 15mL Falcon tube
Core Phase: 2\*15mL Pcap with 15mL Falcon tubeP-CAP50-HP
P-CAP15-HP**Flow meters**Continuous phase: 1\* Flow Unit L
Shell Phase: 1\*Flow Unit M
Core Phase: 1\*Flow Unit MFLU-M-D
FLU-L-D**Optical System**Light Source
Microscope objective
Specific colour camera (up to 400 fps, 1µs integration time)
XYZ translation stagesNA\***Tubing and Fittings**Tubing :
– OD: 1/16 and 1/32 OD
– ID: 250µm & 500µm
– Materials: PFA
Manual Valves:
– 3\*4 way valves
– 2\*2 way valves
Filters:
– 10µm filters for continuous phase
– 2µm filters for dispersed phaseNA\***Wetted materials**Platform: PEEK, PFA, PCTFE, PTFE, SS316L, GLASS
Sealing: FKM or EDPMX**Unit dimensions**61\*41\*43 cm3 (L\*W\*H)X**Weight**4kg without the protective hood
20kg with the protective hoodX
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
### What is the difference between the Double Emulsion Production Station and the Complex Emulsion Production Platform?
#### Double Emulsion Production Station
- Production of either W/O/W or O/W/O double emulsion s
- For microcapsule production, an additional component needs to be added
- Suitable for a microfluidic user or scientist who wants to build their own setup
#### Complex Emulsion Production Platform
- An integrated system for non-microfluidic users and scientists who don’t want to spend time on system design
- Everything is ready to use for various types of liquid double emulsions and microparticle generation
---
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Raydrop Cleaning Procedure Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-cleaning-procedure/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Using dSurf for High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry (LuMIn) Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/droplet-micro-thermometry-lumin/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Raydrop double emulsions protocol Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-double-emulsions-protocol/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Complex emulsion production platform datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/complex-emulsion-production-platform-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Raydrop double emulsions datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-double-emulsions-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Raydrop | A new droplet generation device based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/the-raydrop-a-new-droplet-generation-device-based-on-non-embedded-co-flow-focusing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microparticles Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Oil in Water Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Packs
---
### [Liposome Production Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the Pack
### Complete System
Provides all the components needed to start generating liposomes with high monodispersity and stability.
### Engineered Solution
Designed with right pressure controllers, microfluidic chip, and accessories to give you the greatest possible flexibility in terms of particle size and generation rate.
### Dedicated Protocol
A complete method is provided to assist you in setting up and starting your experiments.
### Customization
We can adapt the package to meet your needs (particle size, generation rate).
## Related applications
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Liposome Production Pack User Guide
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/plga-nanoparticle-production-station-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Drug-Loaded Liposome Preparation Using Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/)
## Why use microfluidics for liposome synthesis?
The physical characteristics of liposomes (size, polydispersity index (PDI), lamellarity) depend not only on the lipid composition but also on the method of preparation. Traditional methods like thin-film hydration and extrusion have been commonly used, though they come with limitations. These can be time-consuming processes with high batch-to-batch variation, making them less suitable in drug development. The emergence of microfluidics in the last decade has advanced the field by offering a more efficient and precise approach to liposome synthesis. These include control of fluid dynamics, high control of flow ratios, contributing to uniform size, minimal variation, and reproducibility of the size of the liposomes generated.6
Manufacturing Method Advantages Disadvantages **Film hydration**– Established method
– Understood method– High consumption of organic solvents
– High PDI
– Lack of reproducibility
Need for additional downsizing step
– Difficulties in scaling-up**Solvent injection** – Simple and fast
– Scale-up possibility – Exposure to organic solvent
– High PDI
– Stability problems **Extrusion** – Uniform and homogenous formulation – Possible clogging of the membrane pores
– Difficulties in scale-up **Microfluidics**– High encapsulation rate
– Control of the liposome size
– Homogeneous size distribution
– Ability to control temperature – Highly dependent on the instrument
– May require some expertise for manufacturing microfluidic chip## Microfluidics staggered herringbone mixer for liposome production: Efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective
[The Little Things Factory (GmbH)](https://ltf-gmbh.com/) staggered herringbone mixer includes an Inlet, mixing section, and outlet. The inlets of the device are shaped in a flow-focusing design, which permits instant visualization and easy control of the aqueous and lipid phases before mixing. After, the mixing section is formed by 30 half-cycles including 6 herringbone structures each.
The herringbone structures induce rotational flow, causing the two phases to wrap around each other with alternating orientations between each half-cycle. This process results in a flow profile characterized by a decreasing diffusion length between the streams. This facilitates rapid mixing and promotes the lipids to self-assemble into liposomes. By tuning the lipid concentration, flow rate ratio, and total flow rate, the size and monodispersity of the liposomes are efficiently controlled.7
Manufactured in glass, the chip can be easily connected to the microfluidic setup with standard 1/4-28 UNF threaded ports. The chip can be cleaned and reused.
## Liposome generation set-up
Figure 1: Liposome production set-up.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Case Study: How to produce drug-loaded liposomes for ovarian cancer treatment studies
See our case study, based on the paper published in [*Scientific Reports (2024)*](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-024-55801-3) from the [Ca’Foscari University of Venice](https://www.unive.it/pag/28233/). This describes the production of amiodarone-loaded liposomes with precise control over size and drug content obtained using the Flow EZ and the glass herringbone mixer.
Figure 2: TEM image of the obtained liposomes for FRR 3:1 (at TFR = 1 mL/min, the flow rate was 750 µL/min for the aqueous phase and 250 µL/min for the organic phase).8
Figure 3: Liposome internalization by cells.8
## Specifications
- Package contents
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Performance
Product NameProduct NumberLineUp Flow EZ pressure controller (7000 mbar) (x2)LU-FEZ-7000LineUp LINK Module (software control) (x1)LU-LNK-0002LineUP SUPPLY KIT (x1)LU-SPK-0002T-29 HERRINGBONE MIXER (x1)LTF-012.00-4264P-CAP series 15 mL (x2)P-CAP-S-15P-CAP series 50 mL (x1)P-CAP-S-50Tubing & Connection Kit P-CAP screw 50 mL (x1)CTQ-Kit-PC50\_screwFlow Unit (x2)FLU-XLFLOW UNIT XL (x2)CTQ-KIT-XL
**Microfluidic Chip Specifications**
Herringbone micromixer chipLittle Things Factory – T29MaterialBorofloat®33Dimension75 x 25 x 2 ± 0.3 mmTotal volume3.0 µLMixer volume0.47 µLMixer length28.7 mmChannel depth0.08 – 0.11 mmChannel width0.1 – 0.5 mm
**Liposome Production**
**Lipid phase**Lipids in organic solvent (depending on the application).
In the User Guide, absolute ethanol, lipids (40 mg/mL), and Dimethyldioctadecylammonium (DDAB – 10mg/mL) were used.**Aqueous phase**Phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) (pH 7.2)**Particle size range**\*40 nm to 150 nm**Polydispersity**\*From 10% to 20%\* Depending on FRR (download the Liposome production pack User Guide for more information).
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
**Imaging**
OptoViewer Software
**Batch Method****Fluigent microfluidic method****Particle size distribution**LowHigh**Reproducibility**LowHigh**Live particle size control**NoPrecise**Range of particle size**Limited size rangeWide size range**Continuous (in line) production**NoYes
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Drug-Loaded Liposome Preparation Using Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Liposome Production Pack User Guide Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/plga-nanoparticle-production-station-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual FlowBoard and FLOW UNIT+ User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flow-rate-platform-and-flow-unit-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Liposome Production Pack Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/liposome-nanoparticles-production-station-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Cambridge: Microfluidic GUV production and testing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Digital High-speed Microscope
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## Kits
- [
### Liposome tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/liposome-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Automation Pack)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-microparticle-production-station-automation-package/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of PLGA Microparticle Pack
### A complete PLGA Microparticle Production system
With this package, you have all the components necessary to start generating PLGA microparticles.
### An engineered solution
We built this PLGA Microparticle Production Pack with the right pressure controllers, microfluidic chips, and valves to make sure you have the highest flexibility in terms of droplet size and generation rate.
### A dedicated protocol
A **protocol** is available to assist you setting up and starting your experiments
### Customization possible
We can adapt the package to fulfill your needs (droplet size, generation rate)
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Good practice guide PLGA station
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/good-practice-guide-plga-station/)
[Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## How to produce PLGA microparticle with our Pack?
In our [Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/), we demonstrate to you how the system for the production of PLGA Microparticle creates **excellent reproducibility and significantly improves monodispersity** (CV < 2%) as compared to other methods on the market. It This automated PLGA microparticule production technology brings together all the benefits of pressure-based solutions and droplet microfluidics to focus on the experiment, and even offers the chance to automate protocols for producing different microparticle sizes.
## Main products of the PLGA Microparticle Production System
The PLGA Microparticle Production Pack is made up of various Fluigent microfluidic devices, which are listed below:
Two different pressure controllers ([**Flow EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/flow-ez/)) are used to handle fluids.
A 3/2 valve ([**2-SWITCH**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)) is used to switch between pure ethyl acetate and PLGA dissolved in ethyl acetate and a second valve is also used in particle production output to switch between a waste and recover the sample.
Two [**Flow Unit sensors**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) are used in the PLGA Microparticle Production Package to monitor and control the internal and external phases flow rates during the run all. The [**RayDrop Single Emulsion**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) is used to generate PLGA microparticles. It relies on the alignment of two glass capillaries inside a pressurized chamber. A 3D-printed micro-nozzle is additionally connected at the tip of the injection capillary, enforcing the dripping (fluids flow at low rates) of small droplets. This non-embedded design presents both the characteristics of a co-flow and a flow focusing, and is thereby called non-embedded co-flow focusing. The nozzle and outlet capillary are aligned in the continuous phase chamber, the dispersed phase comes through the nozzle to create the microparticles into the continuous phase and exit by the outlet insert.
- [
#### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
#### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
*Fig 1 PLGA Microparticle Production Package Setup**Fig 2 RayDrop Single Emulsion*
**Fig 3 PLGA microparticles 15 50µm produced by our PLGA Microparticles Production Pack**
- Drug encapsulation in biocompatible microparticles
## Webinar – Drug encapsulation in biocompatible microparticles for drug delivery
In pharmaceutical area, Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) encapsulation into biodegradable and biocompatible polymers is widely used for producing new smart Drug Delivery Systems. The goal of these drug delivery systems is to supply doses of drugs for a sustained period of time at targeting specific sites in the body. This can be achieved by efficiently loading drugs into microparticles which will protect the API during physiological transport and release it when the microparticles have reached their specified target location(s). To regulate the release of the drug, it is critical to controllably produce microparticles with known sizes and a homogeneous size distribution as the rate of drug release is proportional to microparticle size.
Among all techniques available for microparticle production, microfluidic and droplet-based microfluidic ones appear as the best solutions to precisely control microparticle production in terms of size, API loading and encapsulation efficiency.
In this webinar, we discuss how microfluidics can allow API encapsulation into biocompatible and biodegradable microparticles for drug delivery.
**What you’ll learn:**
- How microfluidics can be used for API encapsulation in microparticles?
- What is droplet microfluidics?
- Learn a new method for microparticle production
**Conference animated by :**
- Adam Meziane, Product manager, Fluigent
- Adrien Dewandre, Technology Lead, Secoya Technologies
- Arnaud REITZ, R&D project manager, Fluigent
April 30th 2020
---
## Specifications
- Package content
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Performance
- FAQ
**Fluigent Package**
Product NameProduct NumberLineUp Flow EZ (x2)
LU-FEZ-2000LineUP SUPPLY KITsed (x1)
LU-SPK-0002LineUP LINK Module (x1)
LU-LNK-0002Flow Unit (x1)
FLU-L-DFlow Unit (x1)
FLU-M-D15 mL pressure CAP HP (x2)
P-CAP15-HP50 mL pressure CAP HP (x1)
P-CAP50-HPRayDrop Single emulsion standard config (30µm-150µm) (x1)
1DPRD012-SWITCH (x2)
2SW003LineUp SWITCH EZ (x1)
ELUSEZPLGA Connector and Tubing Kit AP/FP (x1)
1DPPLC2
**PARTICLE PRODUCTION**
**Dispersed phase**PLGA lactide: glycolide (75:25), mol wt 66,000-107,000**PLGA concentration used**2%, 5% ans 10%**Continuous phase**Ethyl acetate**Doplet size range**60µm to 120 µm**Particle size range**20µm to 50 µm**Production rate**Up to 60mg/h**Production frequency**U to 1000Hz**Monodisperity**2%
**FLOW CONTROL**
**Pumps**Fluigent Flow EZ™ (2 bar)**Flow sensors**Fluigent FLOW UNIT (M and L)**Automated valves**Fluigent 2-SWITCH™
**IMAGING**
**Microscope**[Fluigent Digital high-speed microscope](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/ "Fluigent Digital high-speed microscope")
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Imaging**
OptoViewer Software
**Traditional methods (Batch methods)****Fluigent PLGA microparticle production station****Particle size distribution~20%~2%**ReproducibilityLowHigh**API mixingUnevenUniform**Live particle size controlNoPrecise**Continuous / In line production NoYes**Microfluidic methods available on the market****Fluigent PLGA microparticle production station****Particle size distribution~5%~2%**Semi automated productionNoYes**Ethyl acetate dedicated protocolNoYes**Device regenerationNo (glass chip changed when clogged)Yes (the RayDrop can be maintained)**ConnectorsNon standard, user dependant quality (leakage, blockage)Standard fittings for better sealing
### Can I use a polymer other than PLGA?
The method has been designed for PLGA. Changing polymers may change the physical fluid properties and lead to different results.
### How can I prevent the clogging from PLGA?
Follow the procedure detailed in the application note. Please note the priming and cleaning procedures.
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
### The nozzle (or capillary) sems clogged with PLGA. How can I fix it?
If the usual cleaning procedures from the [*good practice guide*](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/good-practice-guide-plga-station/) cannot unclog the nozzle, contact customer support for help.
### Some of the ethyl acetate has flowed into the continuous phase chamber. What should I do?
If some ethylacetate without PLGA has flowed into the chamber it can be flushed out easily.
Follow the instructions in the [*good practice guide*](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/good-practice-guide-plga-station/).
### I can see a drop of ethlacetate fixed on the outside of the nozzle. How can I get ride of it?
If some ethylacetate without PLGA is fixed around the nozzle, it can be easily flushed out.
Follow the instructions in the *good practice guide*.
### Some of the PLGA solution has flowed into the chamber. What shoulg I do?
If some PLGA gets into the chamber, it has to be eliminated quickly.
Refer to the *good practice guide* of the PLGA Microparticles Production Pack for the exact procedure.
### Air bubbles regularly appear during the experiment. What should I do?
If air bubbles appear in the system for the production of PLGA Microparticle during experiment we advise one to switch to the ethyl acetate solution (if you are in the PLGA configuration) and let it flow for a minute to remove all PLGA from the system.
Then make sure that all connectors are tightened properly.
Refer to the application note procedure to avoid air bubble infiltration.
---
[Read the Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Good practice guide PLGA station Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/good-practice-guide-plga-station/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets PLGA Microparticle production station Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/plga-microparticle-production-station-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Raydrop single emulsion datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-single-emulsion-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Raydrop | A new droplet generation device based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/the-raydrop-a-new-droplet-generation-device-based-on-non-embedded-co-flow-focusing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### PLGA Microparticle Production Standard Pack
PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Standard Pack)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-production-station/)
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Digital High-speed Microscope
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## Kits
- [
### PLGA station tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/plga-microparticle-production-station-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Alginate Bead Generation Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
Alginate microparticles are used in a wide range of therapeutic applications including **encapsulation, therapeutics delivery, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine and in vitro cell culture**. Some of the striking characteristics of alginate beads are their biocompatible nature, easy gelation and availability of open functional groups with ease of manipulation to synthesize alginate derivatives with advanced desirable properties. Alginate microbeads are recommended due to **their nontoxicity and biodegradability,** and also because they are formed from naturally occurring polysaccharides and can be made from a rapid preparation method.
The[ **application note**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-productio) demonstrates that alginate beads can be successfully produced using our setup with **precise control of droplet size**.
Moreover, it’s possible to use different concentrations of alginate due to the great flexibility of our system, which allows users to change the nozzle in case of working with high viscosity liquids. **Changing capillary size** can be easily done by the user to target different droplet sizes.
Due to the precision and versatility of the Alginate bead generation pack, it’s possible to produce particles for various biological applications: encapsulation, drug delivery, stem cell culture, and tissue engineering scaffolds.
## Features of the Alginate Beads Pack
### Complete system
This packages includes all the components necessary to start generating alginate droplets.
### Engineered solution
The package was built with pressure controllers, microfluidic chips, and valves that are customizable in terms of droplet size and generation rate.
### Dedicated protocol
A protocol is available to assist you in setting up and starting your alginate microparticles generation experiments.
### Customization possible
We can adapt the alginate beads generation pack to fulfil your needs (droplet size, generation rate).
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## Main products of the Alginate bead generation pack
- [
#### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
## Microfluidics for Alginate Microbeads Production – Tutorial video
## Specifications
- Package Content
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Performance
**Fluigent**
Product NameProduct NumberLineUp Flow EZ (x2)LU-FEZ-2000LineUP LINK Module (x1)LU-LNK-0002LineUP SUPPLY KIT (x1)LU-SPK-000215 mL pressure CAP HP (x3)P-CAP15-HPTubing & Connection Kit P-CAP 15mL (x3)CTQ-Kit-PC15Flow Unit (x2)FLU-M-DCTK Flow Unit S and M (x2)CTQ-KIT-LQ2-SWITCH (x2)2SW0032-SWITCH Connectors and Tubing Kit (x2)CTQ-Kit-2SW2LineUp SWITCH EZ (x1)ELUSEZRayDrop Single emulsion standard config (30µm-150µm) (x1)1DPRD01Alginate Connector and Tubing Kit (x1)O-SE-ALG-CTK
**Beads production**
**Dispersed phase**Alginate + Calcium + EDTA**Alginate concentration**0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, 2%**Continuous phase**dSurf**Particle size range** 50 – 250 µm**Production frequency** Up to 5 000 Hz**Monodispersity**2%
**Flow Control**
**Pumps** Fluigent Flow EZ (2 000 mbar)**Flow sensors**Fluigent Flow Unit (M)**Automated valves**Fluigent 2-SWITCH
**Imaging (optional)**
**Microscope**Fluigent Digital high-speed microscope
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
**Imaging**
OptoViewer Software
**Extrusion method****Fluigent microfluidic method****Particle size distribution**up to 50%~ 2% **Reproducibility**lowHigh**Particle size control**noPrecise**Continuous (in line) production**noyes
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Raydrop single emulsion datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-single-emulsion-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Raydrop | A new droplet generation device based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/the-raydrop-a-new-droplet-generation-device-based-on-non-embedded-co-flow-focusing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Alginate user manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/alginate-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Datasheet Pack Alginate Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/datasheet-pack-alginate/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Sensor Hub
Microfluidic Flow sensor hub
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flowboard/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Digital High-speed Microscope
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## Kits
- [
### Alginate tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/alginate-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [PLGA Microparticle Production Standard Pack ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-production-station/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features
### A complete system
With the PLGA pack, you have all the components needed to start generating PLGA microparticles
### An engineered solution
We built the package with the right pressure controllers, microfluidic chips, and valves to give you maximum flexibility in terms of droplet size and generation rate
### A dedicated protocol
A protocol is available to assist you in setting up and starting your experiments
### Customization possible
We can adapt the PLGA Microparticle production standard pack to meet your needs (droplet size, generation rate, double emulsion)
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## Main products of the package
- [
#### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- Drug encapsulation in biocompatible microparticles
## Webinar – Drug encapsulation in biocompatible microparticles for drug delivery
In pharmaceutical area, Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) encapsulation into biodegradable and biocompatible polymers is widely used for producing new smart Drug Delivery Systems. The goal of these drug delivery systems is to supply doses of drugs for a sustained period of time at targeting specific sites in the body.
This can be achieved by efficiently loading drugs into microparticles which will protect the API during physiological transport and release it when the microparticles have reached their specified target location(s). To regulate the release of the drug, it is critical to controllably produce microparticles with known sizes and a homogeneous size distribution as the rate of drug release is proportional to microparticle size.
Among all techniques available for microparticle production, microfluidic and droplet-based microfluidic ones appear as the best solutions to precisely control microparticle production in terms of size, API loading and encapsulation efficiency.
In this webinar, we discuss how microfluidics can allow API encapsulation into biocompatible and biodegradable microparticles for drug delivery.
**Summary**
- How microfluidics can be used for API encapsulation in microparticles?
- What is droplet microfluidics?
- Learn a new method for microparticle production
April 30th 2020
---
## Specifications
- Package content
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Performance
- FAQ
**Fluigent Package**
Product NameProduct NumberLineUp Flow EZ (x2)
LU-FEZ-2000LineUP SUPPLY KIT (x1)
LU-SPK-0002LineUP LINK Module (x1)
LU-LNK-0002Flow Unit (x1)
FLU-L-DFlow Unit (x1)
FLU-M-D15 mL pressure CAP HP (x2)
P-CAP15-HP50 mL pressure CAP HP (x1)
P-CAP50-HPRayDrop Single emulsion standard config (30µm-150µm) (x1)
1DPRD01PLGA Connector and Tubing Kit SP (x1)
1DPPLC1
**PLGA PARTICLE PRODUCTION**
**Dispersed phase**PLGA lactide: glycolide (75:25), mol wt 66,000-107,000**PLGA concentration used**2%, 5% ans 10%**Continuous phase**Ethyl acetate**Doplet size range**60µm to 120 µm**Particle size range**20µm to 50 µm**Production rate**Up to 60mg/h**Production frequency**U to 1000Hz**Monodisperity**2%
**FLOW CONTROL**
**Pumps**Fluigent Flow EZ™ (2000mbar)**Flow sensors**Fluigent FLOW UNIT (M and L)**Automated valves**Fluigent 2-SWITCH™
**IMAGING**
**Microscope**Fluigent Digital high-speed microscope
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Imaging**
OptoViewer Software
**Traditional methods (Batch methods)****Fluigent PLGA microparticle production station****Particle size distribution~20%~2%**ReproducibilityLowHigh**API mixingUnevenUniform**Live particle size controlNoPrecise**Continuous / In line production NoYes**Microfluidic methods available on the market****Fluigent PLGA microparticle production station****Particle size distribution~5%~2%**Semi automated productionNoYes**Ethyl acetate dedicated protocolNoYes**Device regenerationNo (glass chip changed when clogged)Yes (the RayDrop can be maintained)**ConnectorsNon standard, user dependant quality (leakage, blockage)Standard fittings for better sealing
**Can I use a polymer other than PLGA?**
The method has been designed for PLGA. Changing polymers may change the physical fluid properties and lead to different results.
**How can I prevent the clogging from PLGA?**
Follow the procedure detailed in the application note. Please note the priming and cleaning procedures.
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
**The nozzle (or capillary) sems clogged with PLGA. How can I fix it?**
If the usual cleaning procedures from the *good practice guide* cannot unclog the nozzle, contact customer support for help.
**Some of the ethyl acetate has flowed into the continuous phase chamber. What should I do?**
If some ethylacetate without PLGA has flowed into the chamber it can be flushed out easily.
Follow the instructions in the *good practice guide*.
**I can see a drop of ethlacetate fixed on the outside of the nozzle. How can I get ride of it?**
If some ethylacetate without PLGA is fixed around the nozzle, it can be easily flushed out.
Follow the instructions in the *good practice guide*.
**Some of the PLGA solution has flowed into the chamber. What shoulg I do?**
If some PLGA gets into the chamber, it has to be eliminated quickly.
Refer to the *good practice guide* for the exact procedure.
**Air bubbles regularly appear during the experiment. What should I do?**
If air bubbles appear during experiment we advise one to switch to the ethyl acetate solution (if you are in the PLGA configuration) and let it flow for a minute to remove all PLGA from the system.
Then make sure that all connectors are tightened properly.
Refer to the application note procedure to avoid air bubble infiltration.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Good practice guide PLGA station Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/good-practice-guide-plga-station/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets PLGA Microparticle production station Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/plga-microparticle-production-station-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Raydrop single emulsion datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-single-emulsion-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Raydrop | A new droplet generation device based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/the-raydrop-a-new-droplet-generation-device-based-on-non-embedded-co-flow-focusing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Automation Pack)
PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Automation Pack)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-microparticle-production-station-automation-package/)
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Digital High-speed Microscope
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## Kits
- [
### PLGA station tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/plga-microparticle-production-station-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Microfluidic Droplet Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/starter-packages/droplet-starter-package/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the Pack
### Large range of droplet generation rates
Water-in-oil droplets at up to 1 200 Hz
### Customizable droplet size
The droplet size can be easily adjusted by controlling the flow rate, allowing for precise control over the size of the droplets generated. Droplets ranging from 20 µm to 100 µm can be produced.
### A user-friendly microfluidic chip
PDMS microfluidic chips with markers to determine droplet size – Integrated resistance to avoid backflow
### Start generating droplets easily
All instruments are easy to connect
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
[Download the Raydrop Cleaning Procedure](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/raydrop-cleaning-procedure.pdf)
## Main products of the Droplet Generation Pack
- [
#### Easy droplet generation chip
Most simple droplet generation chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## What is Droplet-Based Microfluidics?
### Principle of Emulsion
An emulsion is a type of mixture composed of at least two immiscible liquids, where one liquid is dispersed in the other as droplets. Without emulsification, the two liquids would separate, with the less dense phase floating on top of the denser phase. Emulsions can take various forms, such as oil-in-water or water-in-oil, and multiple emulsions are also possible. You can conduct this type of experiment using a droplet pack.
Figure 3 Principle of the emulsion
## What are the potential applications of droplet generation technology?
Emulsions find extensive use across various industries. In the [pharmaceutical industry](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/), emulsions are employed for intravenous, intramuscular, ocular, or oral products, serving as templates for polymer microparticles, lipid nanoparticles, or microcapsules. They can function as the active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) or as an adjuvant for co-administration. In the [food industry](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/), emulsions are valued for their thermodynamically stable dispersions and uniform droplet size distribution, making them suitable for diverse applications. In the [cosmetics industry](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/cosmetics/), emulsion-based-products offer a smooth texture and a gradual, sustained release of active ingredients, improving the solubilization of insoluble materials.
## What are the advantages of this technology?
Various mechanical devices, such as high-speed blenders, high-pressure valve homogenizers, and colloid mills, are commonly employed to produce droplets. These devices generate [shear or impact stresses](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) through manual or mechanical agitation, leading to droplet breakup. However, the stresses generated are often non-uniform across the system, resulting in polydisperse emulsions with varying droplet sizes. This limitation can be significant in many applications since emulsion stability is strongly influenced by droplet size.
The production of droplets using microfluidic systems has become a vital technique for applications requiring monodisperse droplets. With the droplet pack, it becomes possible to generate droplets one at a time within micrometer-sized channels. The resulting droplets exhibit remarkable uniformity in size, enabling precise control in various applications. In fact, droplet size primarily depends on microfluidic channel dimensions, fluid properties, and flow rates employed. Droplet microfluidics facilitates highly monodispersed droplet production, reproducible generation of complex structures, manipulation of single droplets, and miniaturization of production and bioanalytical devices.
Droplets have become an indispensable tool in chemical and biological research, with tangible success demonstrated through various mainstream commercial products that effectively address key biological and healthcare-related challenges. Examples of such products include Drop-seq and nucleic acid quantification via Droplet Digital PCR systems.
To delve deeper into droplet generation, please feel free to peruse our white paper on droplet-based microfluidics.
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
## Specifications
- Package content
- Software
- Droplet size and frequency range
- Tutorial
- FAQ
**Package contents**
Product NameProduct NumberLineUp Flow EZ 1 bar or Flow EZ 2 bar (x2)LU-FEZ-1000 or
LU-FEZ-2000LineUP LINK Module (x1)LU-LNK-0002LineUP SUPPLY KIT (x1)LU-SPK-0002Flow Unit (x2)FLU-M-DCTK Flow Unit S and M (x2)CTQ-KIT-LQ2mL pressure CAP HP (x2)P-CAP2-HPTubing & Connection Kit P-CAP 2mL (x2)CTQ-KIT-PCAP2Tube PEEK 1/32-127 rouge (x2)1576XLDroplet Kit (x1)DROPKIT01dSURF 3 x 4mL (x1) (discontinued | Alternative : [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"))DR-RE-SU-12
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 2.2.5. or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
Droplet generation video
**Can I reorder the EZ-drops chips alone?**
Of course, the chips can be ordered separately from the whole Droplet Starter Pack. We invite you to [get in touch with our sales representatives](mailto:contact@fluigent.com) or with your local distributor.
---
**Can I know the droplet size using pressure control only?**
Yes, the size market at the nozzle is here to help you estimate the size of the droplets you are generating. The Droplet Starter Pack has been designed to have very stable flow rates, as the microfluidic resistance is mainly within the chip. This means that the flow rates will stay stable even with pressure control only, thus the droplet sizes.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Droplet Starter Package User’s Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/droplet-starter-package-users-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Droplet starter package datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/droplet-starter-package-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual LineUp™ series User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/lineup-series-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Educational Pack
Learn and experiment with microfluidics
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/starter-packages/educational-packages/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### Droplet kit (chips, tubing and fittings)
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/droplet-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Starter Packs
---
### [Liposome tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/liposome-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
**Published:** March 11, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Key Features of the Surfactant
- **Highly stable emulsions** with reproducible droplet size and minimal coalescence
- **Resistant to thermal and mechanical stress**, including PCR cycling and emulsion reinjection and manipulation
- **Biocompatible** with enzymes, nucleic acids, fluorophores, and cells
- **Compatible with multiple oils**, including HFE-7500 and FO-101 (replacement oil)
- **Ready-to-use formats** (neat or pre-dissolved in oils)
## Why Choose This Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics?
Achieving stable and reproducible droplets is a key challenge in [droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/). The 008-FluoroSurfactant is specifically designed to meet experimental constraints while delivering consistent performance across a wide range of microfluidic geometries.
- **High interfacial stability**:
The surfactant forms a robust layer at the water-oil interface, helping maintain narrow droplet size distributions and long-term emulsion integrity.
- **Low surface tension**:
By effectively reducing interfacial tension, the 008-FluoroSurfactant facilitates controlled droplet breakup, enabling precise droplet size tuning in flow-focusing and T-junction devices.
- **Resistance to degradation**:
Emulsions remain stable during demanding protocols such as PCR thermal cycling, extended incubations, and high-throughput sorting.
- **Chemical inertness**:
The surfactant is designed to minimize unwanted interactions with enzymes, nucleic acids, fluorophores, and other assay components, reducing risks of inhibition or signal loss.
“We’re pleased to formalize a collaboration that reflects many years of successful use of RAN Biotechnologies reagents alongside Fluigent systems in advanced droplet workflows,**”**
“Bringing 008-FluoroSurfactant to the Fluigent catalog is a natural step in expanding access to reliable, high-performance microfluidic solutions for the research community.”
**Dr. Roger Nassar, CEO of RAN Biotechnologies.**
## Available Formulations
The 008-FluoroSurfactant is compatible with commonly used fluorinated oils such as **HFE-7500**, as well as alternative oils like **FO-101**.
- Ready-to-use oil formulations
- Neat format (5 g – 100%) for custom dilution in oil
- **PFAS-free options available** upon request to support evolving regulatory and sustainability requirements
**Contact us to select the most suitable formulation for your application.**
[Reach out to us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Selected publications:
- Kawasaki, F.; Mimori, T.; Mori, Y.; Aburatani, H.; Yachie, N.; Sato, I.; Ota, S. Computational Design of Synthetic Optical Barcodes in Microdroplets. *Advanced Optical Materials* **2024**, *12* (12), 2302564. .
- Cardenas-Benitez, B. *et al.* Three-Dimensional Isotropic Imaging of Live Suspension Cells Enabled by Droplet Microvortices. PNAS, **2024**, *121* (44), e2408567121.
- Verbist, W. *et al.* SeParate: Multiway Fluorescence-Activated Droplet Sorting Based on Integration of Serial and Parallel Triaging Concepts. *Lab on a Chip* **2024**, *24* (7), 2107–2121.
## Specifications
### Product offering
PNDescription008-FS-5G 5 grams of neat undissolved 008-FluoroSurfactant 008-FS2wtH-12ML 12 milliliters of a solution containing 008-FluoroSurfactant in Novec HFE7500 at 2 weight% concentration 008-FS2wtH-30ML 30 milliliters of a solution containing 008-FluoroSurfactant in Novec HFE7500 at 2 weight% concentration 008-FS2wtFO101-12ML 12 milliliters of a solution containing 008-FluoroSurfactant in FO101 oil at 2 weight% concentration 008-FS2wt
FO101-30ML 30 milliliters of a solution containing 008-FluoroSurfactant in FO101 oil at 2 weight% concentration FO-101-120ML 120 milliliters of FO-101 oil to do custom dilution of 008-FluoroSurfactant *For Research Use Only. This product is not intended for diagnostic, therapeutic, or clinical use.*
### Technical specifications
- **What is the difference between 008-FluoroSurfactant and dSurf ?**
[dSurf](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) is our previous fluorosurfactant and has been discontinued. The 008-FluoroSurfactant is now recommended as the replacement surfactant for users seeking efficient droplet generation and long-term emulsion stability.
**Internal validation** and application testing have demonstrated comparable droplet generation performance and emulsion stability between the dSurf and the 008-FluoroSurfactant under standard operating conditions.
**dSurf** **008-FS** Molecular weight /1000 to 20 000 Da Surface tension 5 to 20mN/m depending on the aqueous phase and also depends on the droplet composition 2 to 20mN/m depending on the aqueous phase and also depends on the droplet compositionCharge CMC0,05% in weight 0,05% in weight
- **What is the difference between HFE-7500 and FO-101?**
FO-101 is an alternative oil developed by RAN Biotechnologies as a replacement for the commonly used fluorinated oil, Novec HFE-7500. It is designed to offer similar physical properties (density, viscosity, droplet behavior) while supporting more flexible and future-proof microfluidic workflows.
## FAQ
- **How should I choose between fluorinated oils and alternative oils like FO-101?**
The choice depends on application requirements, regulatory constraints, and sustainability strategy. Both options deliver reliable droplet performance.
- **Has 008-FluoroSurfactant been validated for droplet digital PCR (ddPCR)?**
Yes. The 008-FluoroSurfactant has been successfully used in peer-reviewed droplet microfluidcs workflows involving thermocycling, fluorescence readout, and droplet sorting. It is engineered to maintain droplet integrity under repeated heating and cooling cycles. Emulsions remain stable during:
- High-temperature denaturation steps (up to 95 °C)
- 30-40+ PCR cycles
- Rapid thermal transitions
Minimal droplet coalescence and consistent fluorescence signals are maintained throughout the protocol, supporting reliable ddPCR quantification.
Proof-of-concept: Wang, R.; Liu, Y.; Chen, S.; Bai, L.; Guo, K.; Pang, Y.; Qian, F.; Li, Y.; Ding, L.; Wang, Y. utPCR: A Strategy for the Highly Specific and Absolutely Quantitative Detection of Single Molecules within Only Minutes. *Biosensors* **2023**, *13* (10). .
- **Can droplets remain stable during long incubations?**
Yes. The surfactant provides strong interfacial stability for extended incubations, such as enzymatic reactions, single-cell assays, live-cell encapsulation, and time-dependent biochemical reactions.
Proof-of-concept: Samlali, K.; Alves, C. L.; Jezernik, M.; Shih, S. C. C. Droplet Digital Microfluidic System for Screening Filamentous Fungi Based on Enzymatic Activity. *Microsyst Nanoeng* **2022**, *8* (1), 123. .
Droplets retain narrow size distribution and show low coalescence rates even after prolonged incubation periods, making the formulation suitable for multi-hour or multi-day workflows.
- **Does the surfactant interfere with enzymes, DNA, or fluorescence readouts?**
The 008-FluoroSurfactant is designed to be chemically inert and biocompatible.
It supports polymerase activity, nucleic acid amplification, fluorescent probe stability, and cell viability in encapsulation workflows.
Published applications confirm reliable signal retention and minimal assay interference.
- **Is the surfactant available in a PFAS-free formulation?**
Yes. PFAS-free surfactant options are available to support regulatory compliance and sustainability goals, while maintaining reliable droplet stability and performance. Please contact us to select the most suitable formulation for your application.
## Ask for a Quote / Contact Us
Ready to integrate **008-FluoroSurfactant** into your microfluidic experiments?
**[Request a quote or contact our team](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/ "Request a quote or contact our team")** to find the best configuration for your application.
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Droplet Pack
Microfluidic Droplet Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/starter-packages/droplet-starter-package/)
- [
### Drop-Seq Pack
Start Drop-Seq experiments
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/drop-seq-package/)
- [
### Alginate Bead Generation Pack
Alginate Bead Generation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Accessories
---
### [Educational Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/starter-packages/educational-packages/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
Microfluidics is defined as the science of fluid behavior in channels of micrometric dimensions, and the technology that handles fluids in devices containing micrometric chambers and channels, known as microfluidic chips. [Microfluidics history](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/) dates back to the 1950s, but the field has seen exponential growth since the 1990s with the development of microfluidic chips made of new and inexpensive materials presenting interesting properties, as well as simplified [fabrication methods](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/). Microfluidics has supported major breakthroughs in the fields of biology, healthcare and chemistry, but remains a new tool for most biologists and chemists, and can be seen as a complicated technology.
Our Educational Pack is here to help you discover the general concepts of microfluidics and perform simple microfluidic experiments with no prior experience.
## Features of the Pack
### Microfluidics handbook
We provide a 4-hour theory handbook that presents an overview of microfluidic principles and introduces the main concepts of microfluidics.
### Complete package
The educational pack include everything you’ll need: flow controllers, microfluidics chips, solutions, reagents, and a microscope are provided.
### Experiment microfluidics
4 hours of guided experiments are provided. Accessories & supplies are also included: tubing cutter, notebook, ruler, etc.
## What You’ll Learn with the Educational Pack
### Full Course with Application to Droplets
Get the most complete overview, with experiments oriented to real-world applications: droplet-based microfluidics.
Master two key principles of microfluidics through guided experiments: co-flow and resistance. First, visualize the fundamental concept of laminar flows, and then learn how to make use of [hydrodynamic resistance](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/) to optimize your microfluidic experiments.
4 hours of guided experiments:
- Droplet generation experiments
- Particle encapsulation experiments
- Theoretical calculations related to the experiments
- Experiments from co-flow and resistance
Suited for: (bio)engineers, chemical engineering, physicists, biologists and researchers
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- FAQ
**Flow control**
**Pressure controllers**Fluigent Flow EZ (1000mbar)**Flow sensors**Fluigent FLOW UNIT M
**Droplet production**
**Dispersed phase**Distilled water**Continuous phase**dSurf (discontinued | Alternative : [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"))**Droplet size range**20 µm to 100 µm diameter**Generation rate (frequency)**Up to 1200 Hz**Coefficient of variation (CV)**2%
**Fluid mixing**
**Solution 1**Blue food dye**Solution 2**Yellow food dye
**Imaging**
**Microscope**Bresser LCD Student microscope
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 2.2.5. or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
**Are dye solutions include**d in the packages?
The dye solutions are indeed included. They are food dyes, therefore nontoxic, and you do not need to take precautions while manipulating them.
**Can the handbook and accessories be ordered separately?**
The handbook and accessories are part of the Educational Packages and cannot be ordered separately.
**Is a pressure source included in the packages?**
Pressure source (and pressure regulator) are not included in the packages but can be ordered along with a package. Otherwise, all instruments and solutions are included in the packages for starting experiments.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Educational Packages datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/educational-packages-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Easy droplet generation chip
Most simple droplet generation chip
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
- [
### High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics
008-FluoroSurfactant
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Accessories
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Starter Packs
---
### [Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
This product is no longer available.
We recommend using our new surfactant with similar performance.
**👉** [**Discover the 008-FluoroSurfactant** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics ")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Importance of a Highly Stable Fluorosurfactant for Droplet Generation in Microfluidics Experiments
A key parameter in droplet microfluidics experiments involves finding the best surfactant for stable and reproducible [droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/).
### What is a surfactant?
A surfactant is a molecule composed of a hydrophilic head and a hydrophobic tail, positioned at the interface between the aqueous droplet and the continuous oil solution. It lowers the interfacial tension, enabling longer droplet stability and preventing droplet merging. Using a highly stable fluorosurfactant like dSurf is critical to ensuring good stability for your emulsion.
## Unique Properties of Fluorinated Surfactants for Droplet Generation
### What are Fluorinated Surfactants used for?
Fluorinated surfactants are often used for droplet generation because they have a number of unique properties that make them ideal for this purpose. These properties include:
- **High stability:** Fluorinated surfactants can form very stable monolayers at the air-water interface, which can help produce droplets with a narrow size distribution and high stability.
- **Low surface tension:** Fluorinated surfactants typically have low surface tension, so they can help reduce the interfacial tension between the droplet and the surrounding fluid and make it easier to generate droplets of a specific size.
- **Resistance to degradation:** Many fluorinated surfactants are resistant to degradation, which means that they can maintain their properties over time, even in harsh environments.
- **Chemical inertness:** Fluorinated surfactants are often chemically inert, which means that they do not react with other chemicals or substances, making them ideal for use in a wide range of applications.
“dSurf improved our droplet stability and reliability of droplet formation under control of Fluigent systems. We performed good quality dPCR and droplet-based micro-cultivation of microbial.”
****Dr. Thomas Henkel – Head of Microfluidic group – Leibniz IPHT, Germany****
“The dSurf is super good! It proved compatibility with the culture of mammalian cells, with no visible toxicity as compared to control.”
**Ya ZHOU – Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Macromolecules and Microsystems in Biology and Medicine Laboratory Institut Curie, Paris**
## dSurf Benefits
### Seamless downstream application compatibility
dSurf makes no compromise on quality. Its unique formulation ensures reliable results for any application. From dPCR and single-cell analysis to cell culture, the biocompatibility of Fluigent’s highly stable fluorosurfactant has been validated even in harsh/extreme conditions. The dOIL (Novec™ fluorinated oil) is also PDMS compatible, as its low viscosity enables the use of lower pressures to achieve optimum flow rates.
### Low cross-talk
When using droplets for cell analysis, both sample cross-talk and dispersion should be minimized for greater accuracy and minimal reagent loss. dOIL offers a low drop-to-drop transfer of organic compounds while maintaining high gas solubility and permeability, which have a major impact on cell survival and analytical reaction efficiency.
### Batch to batch reproducibility
Droplet generation reproducibility and stability are two critically important parameters for successful applications. Fluigent guarantees the best conditions for reliable results by providing a high-quality surfactant.
### Practicality
dSurf comes diluted at 2% in dOIL (3M™ Novec™ 7500) either as 3×4 mL or 30 mL. Depending on the application, dSURF can be used directly at a 2% concentration or further diluted to 0,5% or 1%. Fluigent can provide **pure dOIL** for such dilutions.
Also, we offer **Honey dSURF** (5g – 100% Formula) to directly prepare any dSurf concentration in a fluorinated oil such as HFE 7500 or FC40.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Safety datasheet
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Using dSurf for High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry (LuMIn) Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/droplet-micro-thermometry-lumin/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microbiome culture in droplet using dsurf surfactant Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microbiome-culture-in-droplet-using-dsurf-surfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Generating a water emulsion in an oil solution using a droplet generator chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/production-of-water-in-oil-emulsions-using-a-droplet-generator-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Safety datasheet Safety datasheet dSurf 2 Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/safety-datasheet/safety-datasheet-dsurf-2-2/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Safety datasheet Safety datasheet dSurf 2 Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/safety-datasheet/safety-datasheet-dsurf-2/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Safety datasheet dSurf Safety datasheet 1 Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/safety-datasheet/dsurf-safety-datasheet-1/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets datasheet dSurf Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/datasheet-dsurf/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Impedance Measurement of Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- [
### Drop-Seq Pack
Start Drop-Seq experiments
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/drop-seq-package/)
- [
### Microfluidic Droplet Pack
Microfluidic Droplet Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/starter-packages/droplet-starter-package/)
## Accessories
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Accessories
---
### [Immunostaining Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/immunostaining_package/)
**Published:** August 23, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Why use sequential injection for immunostaining?
Immunostaining is a multi-step technique for detecting the presence or localization of specific proteins, molecules, or [cells](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/) within a biological or tissue sample.
Various reagents such as fixating agents or permeabilization buffers, are sequentially added to the samplewith incubation steps between each injection.
In the classic approach, all the reagents are added by manual pipetting: a time-consuming process that greatly increases the likelihood of errors occurings. Using microfluidic systems overcomes the limitations of conventional protocols. Automating the sequential steps by using our [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) coupled with [rapid low-volume valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) not only saves time for the biologist, but also greatly improves the reproducibility of the assay. Switching from a bulk assay to a microfluidic format also allows for reduced reagent and sample volumes and shorter incubation times.
Our Immunostaining Pack combines all the equipment, software, and information you need to easily transfer your experiment from a bulk protocol to a microfluidic assay.
## Features of the sequential injection pack
### Complete system
All the components you need for your experiment are included in the Immunostaining Pack.
### Versatility
This package can be used for diverse applications, and with any [microfluidic chip. ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/ "microfluidic chip. ")
The [reservoirs ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/ "reservoirs ")can be easily manipulated for heating, agitation, etc.
### Stable flow rate & short switching time
Fluigent’s products offer very [stable delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) and [short switching time](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)s to ensure optimal results for any immunostaining experiment.
### Large sample volumes
Ten injection reservoirs allow for easy manipulation of large sample volumes, and our pressure-based flow controller offers a wide range of pressure and flow rates.
### Dedicated protocol for sequential injections
Up to 10 selected liquids can be delivered sequentially to a chip using the [M-SWITCH](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/). A [2-SWITCH](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/) can also be used to sort the samples at the outlet of the chip to a collection tube or to waste.
Build customized and time-based protocols to save time and reduce variability with our user-friendly [OxyGEN](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/) software, designed for easy and complete protocol automation.
## Related applications
- **Immunostaining**
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- ****Chip preparation : Chip coating, cell loading, cell incubation****
## Main components of the Immunostaining Pack
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
#### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
- [
#### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
**Figure 1 Complete setup for an immunostaining experiment**
## Pack Specifications
- Package content
- Schematic
- Technical specifications
- Software
## **PRODUCTS**
Our Immunostaining Pack includes the following components:
LineUp Flow EZ pressure controller (1000 mbar) (x1)LineUp LINK Module (software control) (x1)FLOW UNIT M (x1)2-SWITCH (x1)SWITCH EZ (x1)P-CAP series 15 mL (x12)M-SWITCH (x1)10 Position Pressure Manifold (x1)
*Fig 2 Complete Schematic of the Immunostaining Package* *Fig 3 Complete Setup of the Immunostaining Package*
**FLUID HANDLING SYSTEM**
**Product****Part number**1\*Flow EZLU-FEZ-10001\*2-SWITCH2SW0031\*SWITCH EZELUSEZ1\*LINK moduleLU-LNK-00021\*M-SWITCHESSMSW003
**RESERVOIRS**
**Product****Part number**12\*15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tubeP-CAP15-HP1\*10 Position Pressure ManifoldCTQ-MANI
**FLOW METERS**
**Product****Part number**1\*Flow unit M FLU-M-D
**TUBING**
**Product****Part number**Tubing and connection Kit P-CAP 15mL
FEP tubing with an ID of 500 microns CTQ-KIT-PC151\*Tubing and connection Kit 2-SWITCH CTQ-KIT-2SW21\*Tubing and connection Kit Flow UNIT MCTQ-KIT-LQ1\*Tubing and connection Kit M-SWITCHCTQ-KIT-ESSMSW003
**OxyGEN**
Real-time control, automated protocol, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
“We have been using Fluigent’s M-SWITCH, amongst other accessories, including Flow EZ system, flow controllers, for the past 5 years. We are pleased with its performance, especially the programmability and automation of fluid flow that relieves the user of the need to be present next to the experiments that run for several hours. We found the software interface to be simple to use and could count on the team’s assistance for friendly recommendations and support.”
******Sivashankar Krishnamoorthy ****–********** ******Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST)******
[See more about M-SWITCH](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
## Aria: a fully integrated system
Run [sequential perfusion and immunostaining experiments](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/) in an automated, intuitive, and completely integrated system with our ready-to-use Aria system.
The [Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) is our automated solution for cellular perfusion or timed injection protocols, allowing for the automatic delivery of up to 10 different solutions into a chamber or microfluidic chip, according to user-defined protocols.
[Learn more about Aria ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Immunostaining Package Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/immunostaining_package_datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets M-SWITCH™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/m-switch-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Easy Switch Solutions User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/easy-switch-solutions-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CEA/CNRS: A flow cell for nanoscopic imaging in liquid Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cea-cnrs-a-flow-cell-dedicated-to-imaging-in-liquid-at-the-nanoscale/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual SWITCH EZ User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/switch-ez-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets SWITCH EZ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/switch-ez-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
- [
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
- [
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Perfect organ-on-chip cell perfusion set
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Microfluidic Leakage Testing Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-leakage-testing-pack/)
**Published:** November 19, 2024
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the Leakage Testing Pack
### Customization
Fluigent’s Leakage Testing Pack can be adapted to meet your needs. It is customizable to accommodate specific flow rate and pressure requirements. A pressure sensor can also be added to measure pressure drops at the closest position of the leak.
### Extreme precision of the flow rate measurements
Enables the detection of leakage at flow rates as low as nL/min.
### Automated protocols
Using the OxyGEN software, protocols can be easily automated, saving the user time, and improving reproducibility. It is suitable for long-term protocols that can run for weeks without the need for user intervention.
### Complete System
This package includes all necessary components to start leak testing experiments on any microfluidic system.
## Related Documents
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### Datasheet – Microfluidic Leakage Testing Pack
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/microfluidic-leakage-testing-pack/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Ensuring Quality Control in Micro-Scale Devices by Innovative Leak Detection Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/method-for-leak-detection/)
## Key Products in the Leakage Testing Pack
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Why Using Flow Control for Leak Test?
To ensure the safety and efficacy of microfluidic systems, rigorous quality testing is usually necessary. When developing a microfluidic device, particular attention should be paid to microleakages that can compromise its performance.
Our advanced technology ensures highly accurate measurements of leakage rates at very low flow rates (down to nL/min), allowing researchers and manufacturers to **[detect even the smallest leaks reliably](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/method-for-leak-detection/ "detect even the smallest leaks reliably")**. This level of precision is a great advantage for maintaining the integrity of microfluidic devices and for optimizing their performance and durability.
The Leakage Testing Pack is versatile, providing valuable insights for both components characterization and quality control. Indeed, it enables a complete assessment of component or system characteristics, essential for generating its datasheet. In our application note, we characterized a custom-made PDMS chip through a pressure burst test. It allowed to measure the initial nano-leakage and determining the maximum pressure before chip delamination. For quality control, the pack is ideal for use on industrial testing benches post-production, ensuring that performance and reliability are met.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Ensuring Quality Control in Micro-Scale Devices by Innovative Leak Detection Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/method-for-leak-detection/)
## Specifications
- Package content
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**Fluigent leakage testing package**
LineUp Flow EZ pressure controller (2000 mbar) x 1LineUp LINK module (software control) x1FLOW UNIT S x1P-CAP series 50 mL x1OxyGEN software Pressure UNIT XL (optional)
**Fluid Handling System**
ProductPart NumberLineUp LINK Module (software control)P/N : LU-LNK-002LineUp FlowEZ Pressure controllerP/N : LU-FEZ-2000
**Reservoirs**
ProductPart Number50 mL P-Cap and 50 mL Falcon tube P/N: P-CAP50-HP
**Flow Meter**
ProductPart NumberFlow UNIT S P/N: FLU-S-DPressure UNIT XL (optional) P/N : EIPS7000
**Tubing**
ProductPart NumberFlow UNIT S connectors and fitting kit P/N: CTQ-KIT-FU2Tubing and connection Kit P-CAP 50 mL P/N: CTQ-KIT-PC50LineUp Supply Kit x 1 P/N : LU-SPK-0002Pressure UNIT connectors and fitting kit x1 (optional) P/N: EIPSKIT
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Datasheet – Microfluidic Leakage Testing Pack Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/microfluidic-leakage-testing-pack/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Ensuring Quality Control in Micro-Scale Devices by Innovative Leak Detection Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/method-for-leak-detection/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Rate Platform
Multiple flow sensors hub
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-rate-platform/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Lab Integration Software](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
**Published:** January 11, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## SDK Lab integration software features
### One instance for all
All Fluigent instruments, including pressure and flow controllers, valves and sensors are managed by one single lab integration software instance.
### Embeded software
When hardware is changed or replaced, in many cases, there is no need to make changes to the software code.
### Custom regulation
Embedded regulation system allows and facilitates the creation of custom feedback loops between any pressure and sensor components, allowing precise control for specific requirements.
### External compatibility
Even external (non-Fluigent) sensors can be integrated and controlled within the system, ensuring a complete and adaptable setup.
### Advanced customization
Advanced functionalities, including setting limits, adjusting units, performing calibration, and accessing detailed error logs. These features provide a high degree of customization and control over the system and its performance.
## Our Expertise
- [
### OxyGEN
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Life Science
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Flow Sensing Technologies, A Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-flow-sensing-technologies/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
## SDK Lab Integration Software Specifications
- Supported languages
- Operating systems
**Python**ver. 3.1+ minimum**LabVIEW**ver. 2016+ minimum**MATLAB**ver. R2015a+ minimum**C++**ver. 11+ minimum**C#**ver. .NET Core 3.3 minimum
**Windows 7, 8 and 10** (32/64-Bits)
Python (ver. 3.1+ minimum)LabVIEW (ver. 2016+ minimum)MATLAB (ver. R2015a+ minimum)C++ (ver. 11+ minimum)C# (ver. .NET Core 3.3 minimum)---
**MacOS** (latest version)
Python (ver. 3.1+ minimum)C++ (ver. 11+ minimum)C# (ver. .NET Core 3.3 minimum)---
**Linux**
Python (ver. 3.1+ minimum)C++ (ver. 11+ minimum)C# (ver. .NET Core 3.3 minimum)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies OEM Case Study: Microfluidic Drug Screening Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key considerations for fluidic system integration Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Software Development Kit User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/software-development-kit-user-manual/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
**Catégories de produit:** Software Solutions
---
### [Microfluidic Software Control ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the LINK
### Serial port or USB connection
The LINK modules allow for microfluidic software management of all LineUp instruments on common desktop operating systems including Windows, MacOS and Linux, using a serial port or a USB connection.
### TTL communication
Two TTL ports let you send or receive signals to trigger events to or from compatible devices.
### Sleep mode
Use the LINK button to power ON/OFF or put the entire chain in sleep mode.
## LINK
[More about the LineUp series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/)
## Part of our LineUp Series
Pressure and vacuum control, flow rate control, microfluidic valve automation, and software control. Select and combine the modules you need from our range of LineUp™ products. Our devices have become the gold standard for microfluidic flow control over the years.
## How to include the microfluidic software control module in your setup
To use the microfluidic software management module, simply connect it to any module or series of modules from the [LineUp™ series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) using the plug & play feature. Up to 8 pressure controller modules can be connected in a chain. The LINK module is then connected to a PC via a USB or RS232 connection, as required, enabling the pressure controller to benefit from a full range of advanced functionalities from [Fluigent’s software suite](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/discontinued-software/):
- MAT (Microfluidic Automation Tool) for sequence automation
- A-i-O (All-in-One) for monitoring and live control
- SDK (Software Development Kit) for developing custom applications
Once the experiment is over, simply press the power ON/OFF button on the module to put the whole pressure controller chain into sleep mode.
Depending on the needs of each experiment, the TTL connection sockets can be used to connect an accessory, such as a [microscope](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/), and synchronize its actions with the [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/).
*Figure 2 Microfluidic setup using the LINK module*
## Focus on the microscope. No PC is required
Instead of looking at the PC, users can keep their eyes on the microscope, adjusting the control dial with one hand. In this stand-alone configuration, the device allows for pressure or flow rate control and volume dispense making it ideal for benchtop use.
## Specifications
- Technical Specifications
- Software
**WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS**
**Weight**219 g**Dimensions**80 x 85 x 55 cm
**ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power Supply Voltage**24 VDC**Alimentation port**Universal AC/DC Power Port**PC connection port**USB B (to connect to a PC via USB)
**OxyGEN**
**USB****RS232** Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export/ ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent/[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
**USB****RS232** Custom software application / ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent/[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
****Firmware updater****
Flow EZ Updater[Download](https://updater.fluigent.com/FlowEZ_updater.zip "Download")LINK Updater[Download](https://updater.fluigent.com/LinkUp_updater.zip "Download")
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual LineUp™ series User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/lineup-series-user-manual/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
## Accessories
- [
### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### LineUp supply kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-supply-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** LineUp series
---
### [Microfluidic Sampling Valve](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the sampling valve
### Fluid switching & sampling
The 2-SWITCH™ can be used for fluid switching or dispensing depending on the direction of flow. When 2 liquids are coming into the valve, select which to deliver to your device. Alternatively, one liquid can be driven into selected parts of a setup for sampling/sorting.
### Parallelize & Combine
The specific design of the microfluidic valve for sampling allows one to combine several together with a minimum of space requirement. Added to the automation software, one can easily create multiple fluidic paths.
### Time-based automation
The valve can be controlled using **OxyGEN software** for long-term and complex experiments. Create a time-based protocol to set the timing of the valve(s).
### ON/OFF switch
The 2-SWITCH™ is a versatile device that is easily adapted into an on/off valve (2-port/2-position) by connecting a plug to one port (other than the common port).
### A compact and useful tool
Its versatility makes it ideal for applications where fluid sorting, switching or periodic sampling are required.
## Related applications
- [
### OxyGEN
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### Datasheet 2 Switch Sampling Valve
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/datasheet-2-switch/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Easy Switch Solutions User Manual
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/easy-switch-solutions-user-manual/)
## Smart control and automation of your fluidic path
The 2-switch microfluidic sampling valve can be combined with other compact instruments to allow easy and precise fluid handling in complex microfluidic systems. Once integrated in the set-up, the valves can be controlled in real-time and don’t require a PC.
## Benefits of the microfluidic valve for sampling
- **Ultra-low switching time:** less than 3ms, making it compatible with our [ultra-fast flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- **Low internal volume:** 28µL
- **Versatility and ease of use**
## How to use the 2-switch valve
### [Hydrogel droplets production](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/ "Hydrogel droplets production")
When integrated in our [**droplet production station**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/), the microfluidic sampling valve generates highly monodisperse alginate droplets. The switch is used in 2 configurations:
- Fluid switching: In position 1, the switch will select the injection of water to stabilize the system and start droplet production of the desired diameter. Once the droplet generation is stable, switching to position 2 will allow users to [alginate droplets](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- Fluid sampling: At the outlet of the chip, the switch position will determine if the generated droplets are recovered in the collecting tube or discarded into the waste
Figure 1 Schematics of the alginate droplets production setup
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)Figure 2 Schematic of the immunostaining setup combining Aria and the 2 switch
### [Immunostaining](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/ "Immunostaining")
[Aria ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/ "Automated Sequential Injection System")offers a balanced solution between manual pipetting and single-purpose, all-in-one systems. It allows for the automation of protocols involving multiple solution deliveries, for instance the capture process and immunostaining of breast cancer cells, ultimately saving scientists time and minimizing variability in experiments when compared to manual procedures.
With its outlet microfluidic sampling valve (2-Switch), Aria enables the precise direction of the outlet solution, either towards the intended application or waste, at any given time.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Working principle
**PERFORMANCE**
**Maximum pressure**5 bar**Response time**3 ms
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Internal volume**59 µL**Internal diameter**0,8 mm (standard)
0.8 mm (5 bar version)**Dead volume**None**Wetted materials**Fluidic housing: PEEK
Seal: FFKM
Mineral oil compatible **Fittings**Common 1/4-28 (1/16’’ OD) flangeless**Port communication**RJ45
**WEIGHT AND DIMENSIONS**
****Dimensions****82 x 66 x 22.5 mm****Weight****116 g (0.25 lbs)
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Mineral oil**Not compatible with EPDM membrane**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 2.5.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
The 2-SWITCH™ is a 3-port / 2-way solenoid valve: two ports can alternatively be connected to a third one (the common port), thanks to the movement of a diaphragm actuated by a solenoid. The flow is bidirectional in this sampling microvalve, meaning that the device can be used as a selector and a distributor.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Datasheet 2 Switch Sampling Valve Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/datasheet-2-switch/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Rochester: A tissue chip platform for real-time sensing of secreted inflammatory markers using ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tissue-chip-platform/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos MICROFLUIDIC VALVE AUTOMATION: How to make it easy \[SWITCH EZ\] – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valve-automation-how-to-make-it-easy-switch-ez-fluigent/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Easy Switch Solutions User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/easy-switch-solutions-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CEA/CNRS: A flow cell for nanoscopic imaging in liquid Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cea-cnrs-a-flow-cell-dedicated-to-imaging-in-liquid-at-the-nanoscale/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
- [
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### 2-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/2-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Valves
---
### [Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Specifications
Pressure range-750 to 2000mbarPressure stability< 0.5% FSAccuracy0.25% FSRepeatability (1σ)< 0.01% FSSensor resolution0.03% FSMechanical response time< 10msMinimum settling time – system dependent< 150msTypical settling time
(from 15 mL reservoir from 0 to 2 bar)6secTypical depressurization time
(from 15 mL reservoir from 2 to 0 bar)12secOperating temperature range-10 to 80°COperating humidity0-100%HRDigital Communication interfaceUSB, RS232Weight192gDimensions82.4 x 25.7 x 67.9mm [ PX Technical Specifications
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/px-technical-specifications-3.pdf)
## PX Series
PX-1ICPX110 to 1000 mbar
(0 to 14.5 psi)1300mbar +/- 50 mbar
(18.8 psi +/- 0.72 psi)2000 mbar
(29 psi)N/APX-2ICPX210 to 2000 mbar
(0 to 29 psi)2400mbar +/- 50 mbar
(34.8 psi +/- 0.72 psi)3000 mbar
(43,5 psi)N/APX-V2ICPXV20 to -750 mbar
(0 to -10.8 psi)Vacuum below
-300 mbar (-4.35 psi)N/A-900 mbar +/- 50 mbar## Technical downloads
Name Type Date File PX Technical Specifications Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/px-technical-specifications-3.pdf) Fluigent PX Datasheet Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/datasheet-px-v5-2.pdf) STEP file PX Assembly CAD 2023 7Z [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/09/step_file_px.7z) Drawing PX Assembly CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/09/drawing_ass_px_110219.pdf) - Detailed features and description
- Related applications
- Why choose pressure controller?
- Fluigent direct flow rate control
- General function and configuration examples
- Case studies
- Softwares
## Detailed features and description
### Different models to fit your needs
The PX OEM Microfluidic Pressure Controller is a CE and RoHS compliant single-controller available in 5 pressure ranges. It is suitable for vacuuming and pressure of up to 2 bars. It’s designed to maximize versatility with its dual interface USB and RS232 ports and is delivered with a **full software package (SDK) to ease integration** into Windows or Linux-based software platforms.
### Best-in-class stability
Due to our field proven, patented FASTAB™ technology, the PX allows for optimal flow control with the robustness required in demanding industrial environments.
### Precise fluid injection
Combine the PX with a flow sensor to regulate directly in flow rate and inject precise amounts of volume in the system.
### Expand as needed
Combine as many modules as needed to fit your application needs. Each module consists of a separate pressure channel and can be controlled independently.
In the base configuration, the system controls pressure, and the liquid flow is a function of system resistance, fluid viscosity, etc. The addition of a **flow sensor** enables one to **control or monitor flow rate** as well as **dispense volume**. The pressure automatically adjusts in the background to maintain the flow rate. When connected to a computer, one can use our [**Fluigent software**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/) to **benefit from automation** or ****live monitoring while also recording of data**.**
The **PX** microfluidic OEM pressure controller is available in different pressure and vacuum ranges, to provide the optimum level of pressure control and resolution. These can easily be joined together to **match all application requirements** or reconfigure the system for a new experimental design.
Figure 1 Comparison between a pressure based flow controller and a high precision syringe pump Stability and settling times
### Fluigent provides unique pressure controllers with high precision and stability
The PX is suited for performing microfluidic protocols while providing stable flow rates. With stability better than 0,5% full scale, users are ensured a continuous pressure input without any risk of drifts on a long-term basis (see experimental graph on the right).
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2021/12/pressure-stability-of-the-fluigent-oem-pressure-source.jpg)Figure 2 Pressure measured for 60 seconds at 500mbars
### Benefit from fast and accurate response to input
With a response time of less than 10ms, the PX is one of the most reactive microfluidic OEM pressure controllers in the market. Less than 150ms is necessary for it to settle to the ordered value, and high stability is ensured afterward. Choose the PX for rapid, precise, and repeatable pressure changes for your liquid handling system.
Figure 3 PX pressure ramp up 0 to 500mbars 2mL reservoir
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidic Drug Discovery
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
## Why choose pressure controller?
- Better suited to resistive fluidic paths
- Responsiveness
- Ability to deliver larger volumes of liquid without refill (>1 liter)
- Use one pressure controller and simple valving to deliver multiple solutions
## FASTAB Microfluidic patented technology
Fluigent’s patented [FASTAB™ technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/) is a pressure-driven technology with an advanced feedback control algorithm to maintain precise pressure control.
The technology used in this pressure pump **avoids cross-contamination** because liquids only contact air. Improved **reliability** and **reproducibility** of results are possible due to its pulseless flow.
The use of pressure to handle fluids also provides a **quick response time** allowing for **precise operations** such as stop flow and accurate pressure/flow rate steps.
## Fluigent enables flow rate control with high precision and responsiveness
Figure 4 Microfluidic protocol using a PX and a flow sensor
Figure 5 Microfluidic protocol using a PX and NIFS
Combine the PX with a flow sensor and benefit from our expertise in flow rate management. Our patented technology, FASTAB™, uses a feedback loop system to adjust the pressure provided by the PX pressure controller to reach and maintain the targeted flow rate. It can also be coupled with our non-invasive flow sensor, the [NIFS](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/non-invasive-flow-sensor/), to perform precise flow measurement and regulation for experiments and protocols in demanding environments where contamination should be avoided, and sterility is maintained.
An OEM pressure controller and a flow sensor or NIFS can be combined in a very simple way. See schematics above.
## Can industrial pressure controllers be used to monitor multiple fluids at different flow rates?
### Context
A photonic technology institute tests a variety of lab-on-a-chip systems, the number of flow channels and the required pressures vary from one test to another.
### Solution
Due to its individually stacked channels adapted for different pressures, the PX series allows for control of the different pressure variations required.
### Result
The PX microfluidic OEM pressure controller simplifies fluid management in multiple fluids, and reduces the time needed to add or remove channels. It provides flexibility without compromising performance (accuracy and response time).
[More user cases](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/)
## Softwares
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 1.0.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 21.0.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets PX Technical Specifications Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/px-specifications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key considerations for fluidic system integration Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Fluigent PX Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/fluigent-px-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Pressure predictions for lab-on-a-chip operations using a microfluidic network solver and Fluigent PX Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-predictions-for-lab-on-a-chip-operations-using-a-microfluidic-network-solver-and-fluigent-px/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Management Unit
P-OEM
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
- [
### 3-port/2-way bidirectional valve for industry
Fluigent 2-X
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-2-x/)
- [
### Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry
OEM microfluidic electric rotary valve with multi-port (Fluigent M-X)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/)
## Accessories
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Components
---
### [Microfluidic Flow Management Unit](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Specifications
Pressure range-800 to 7000mbarPressure stability
*CV (on measured values)*< 0.1%full scaleAccuracy0.25%full scaleRepeatability
*Standard deviation of mean values for same pressure order*< 0.001%full scale Sensor resolution0.03%full scaleMechanical response time< 10msMinimum settling time 40msTypical settling time
(from 15 mL reservoir from 0 to 2 bar)6secTypical depressurization time
(from 15 mL reservoir from 2 to 0 bar)12secOperating temperature range10 to 80°COperating humidity0-100%HRDigital Communication interfaceRS232, USBWeightfrom 300 to 450gDimensions : Slim board
*up to 3 channels*19 x 9.5 x 6.5cmDimensions : Standard board
*up to 4 channel*s19 x 14 x 6.5cmDimensions : Large board
*up to 8 channel*s19 x 24 x 6.5cm [ P-OEM Technical Specifications
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/poem-technical-specifications-3.pdf)
## P-OEM Available Pressure Ranges
Pressure range**Required pressure supply****Maximum pressure supply**0 to 345 mbar (5 psi)800 mbar (11.6 psi)900 mbar (13.05 psi)0 to 1000 mbar (15 psi)1300 mbar (18.85 psi)1400 mbar (20.3 psi)0 to 2000 mbar (30 psi)2400 mbar (34.8 psi)2600 mbar (37.7 psi)0 to 7000 mbar (100 psi)7400 mbar (107.32 psi)7600 mbar (110.22 psi)0 to –800 mbar (-12 psi)-800 mbar (-12 psi) [ P-OEM Datasheet
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/350_dop_001_a_user-manual-and-datasheet-p-oem.pdf)
## Technical downloads
Name Type Date File P-OEM Datasheet Fluigent Products Datasheets 2022 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/350_dop_001_a_user-manual-and-datasheet-p-oem.pdf) P-OEM Technical Specifications Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/poem-technical-specifications-3.pdf) Drawing POEM 4C CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_poem_4c.pdf) STEP file POEM 4C CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_poem_4c.zip) Drawing POEM 8C CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_poem_8c.pdf) STEP file POEM 8C CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_poem_8c.zip) - P-OEM product features
- Related applications
- Why choose P-OEM?
- Configuration examples
- Case studies
- Softwares
## Microfluidic Flow Manager Features
### Designed for industrial integration
The OEM Flow Management Unit’s multi-channel design is highly compact, ranging from 1 to 4 or 5 to 8 channels. Since fluids are not in contact with the instrument, there is no routine cleaning, and cross-contamination is drastically reduced. The P-OEM Module design is cost-effective and relies on patented technologies.
### A large range of pressure and flow rates
Positive/negative pressure ranges can be applied to different channels of the same microfluidic flow management unit. The optional advanced multi-channel Flow-Rate Control Module Software combined with the FS Series device makes it possible to have full control on flow rates in any coupled multi-channel configuration while keeping the benefits of a pressure actuation.
### Benefits of pressure control
In addition to a more stable flow rate, the flow settling time is drastically reduced (< 1 s) in both single or multi-channel configurations, enabling significant reagent cost-savings and saving time.
## Related applications
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
- [
### Microfluidic Drug Discovery
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
## A tailor-made P-OEM Flow Manager
As each Microfluidic Flow Management Unit is made on-demand, it can fit your custom requirements in the most compact fashion, all integrated and ready-to-use. We work closely with our customer to build a definition file that summarizes the features chosen among:
- Number of channels
- Pressure range of each channel (that can be defined from the flow rates needed and the physical properties of the set up)
- Dimensions of pneumatic tubing at the inlet and the outlet
- Choice of communication interface
- Flowboard integration for flow rate control with our OEM [flow sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
- Switchboard integration for coupling with our OEM [valves](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/)
- Purge valve
- Pressure source
- Power supply
And other options (please contact us for more information).
## How can the Microfluidic Flow Management Unit be used?
**Example 1**: Custom P-OEM module consisting of a single channel. Only pressure control is available here.
**Example 2**: Custom P-OEM module consisting of a single channel. A flow sensor from our FS series is added into the fluidic system, allowing for flow rate control.
**Example 3**: Custom P-OEM module consisting of four channels. Only pressure control is available here.
**Example 4**: Custom P-OEM module consisting of four channels. For flow rate control, a flow sensor from our FS series is added on each line of the fluidic system, (four flow sensors in total).
## Can industrial pressure controllers be used to monitor multiple fluids at different flow rates?
### Context
An industrial device manufacturer partnered with Fluigent to transform their benchtop water testing device into a mobile device.
### Solution
The compact and highly customized dual channel P-OEM module is a completely mobile laboratory that limits human involvement.
### Result
The compact size and stable performance of the resulting suitcase-sized microfluidic flow manager unit allows for testing at various points of need.
### Context
A digital PCR device manufacturer needs to achieve improved monodispersity and control for their next-generation device.
### Solution
The P-OEM microfluidic flow management unit, through its accuracy, allowed them to reach the specification needed to achieve optimum fluid delivery and treatment.
### Result
The new generation of devices has improved performance with a more consistent size and frequency of droplet generation. The demand for the new generation devices has scaled up since.
### Context
An international Organ-on-a-Chip platform developer required a flow control solution for their new drug testing platform.
### Solution
Based on the development of a recirculation protocol with the client, the P-OEM module was optimized for fast response time and smooth sine wave generation.
### Result
The protocol implemented in the microfluidic flow management unit reproduces lung functionality (up to 90 cycles/min).
[More user cases](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
## OxyGEN
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 2.5.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Software Development Kit
Custom software application ver. 21.0.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key considerations for fluidic system integration
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### P-OEM Datasheet
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/p-oem-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### P-OEM Technical Specifications
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/p-oem-specifications/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
- [
### Liquid Stirring Solutions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/liquid-stirring-solutions/)
- [
### Microfluidic Temperature Control module
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/)
- [
### Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
**Catégories de produit:** Customizable OEM Flow Control Modules
---
### [Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
**Published:** February 23, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Specifications
Pressure range
*Push Pull available*-800 to +7000mbarPressure stability
*CV (on measured values)*<0.1% full scaleAccuracy0.25% full scaleRepeatability (1σ)< 0.01% full scaleSensor resolution0.03% of max pressure Mechanical response timeDown to 30msMinimum settling time<70 msTypical settling time
(for 15 mL reservoir from 0 to 2 bar)2.5secTypical depressurization time
(for 15 mL reservoir from 2 to 0 bar)0.4secOperating temperature range-10 to 80°COperating humidity0-95%HRFlow rate control Compatible with Fluigent flow rate sensors for direct flow rate monitoring and controlMicrofluidic valve controlCompatible with Fluigent OEM 2 position switches and rotary valves (2-Switch, M-switch, L-switch)Electrovalve controlElectrovalve control module for actuating up to 8x 3/2 electrovalves or other ON/OFF state devicesCommunicationUSB and RS232 [ F-OEM Technical Specifications
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/foem-technical-specifications-5.pdf)
## F-OEM Components
FunctionComponentPart numberDetailsBase boardIntegration boardINT-FOEMMain board to accomodate valve and pressure modules.
Extension slots availableBase boardIntegration board RS232 INT-FOEM-RS232Main board to accomodate valve and pressure modules RS232 versionValve connectionsSwitch moduleSWM-FOEM-4Accomodate Fluigent OEM microfluidic valves for direct controlElectrovalve connectionsElectrovalve moduleMEV-FOEM-4 Actuate up to 8x 3/2 electrovalves or other ON/OFF state devicesPressure controlPressure modulePRM-FOEM-PP“Push and Pull” Pressure and vacuum control module from –800 to 1 barPressure controlPressure modulePRM-FOEM-0069Control pressure from 0 to 69 mbarPressure controlPressure modulePRM-FOEM-0345Control pressure from 0 to 345 mbarPressure controlPressure modulePRM-FOEM-1000Control pressure for 1000 mbarPressure controlPressure modulePRM-FOEM-2000Control pressure for 2000 mbarPressure controlPressure modulePRM-FOEM-7000Control pressure for 7000 mbarPressure controlPressure modulePRM-FOEM-N069Vacuum control for –69 mbarPressure controlPressure modulePRM-FOEM-N800Vacuum control for –800 mbarPressure regulatorPressure regulatorPRG-FOEMIf modules with different pressure supply are neededConnectors & tubing kitConnectors & tubing kitFOEM-CTQ-KIT01Kit content: USB Cable 1.8m (x1) 4mm pneumatic tubing (4m), 6mm pneumatic tubing (3m),
double Y manifold 1x 6 mm to 4x 4 mm (x1), 4 mm red plug (x4)ing (4m)## Technical downloads
Name Type Date File F-OEM Datasheet Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/02/f-oem-datasheet-v2-2.pdf) F-OEM User Manual Fluigent products manual 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-user-manual-f-oem-2.pdf) F-OEM Technical Specifications Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/foem-technical-specifications-5.pdf) Drawing FOEM Assembly CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_foem_asm.pdf) Drawing FOEM Integration Board CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_foem_int.pdf) STEP file FOEM Integration Board CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_foem_int.zip) Drawing FOEM Integration Board RS232 CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_foem_int_rs232.pdf) STEP file FOEM Integration Board RS232 CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_foem_int_rs232.zip) Drawing FOEM Extension Board CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_foem_ext.pdf) STEP file FOEM Extension Board CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_foem_ext.zip) Drawing FOEM Switch Module CAD 2024 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_0222_foem-swm.pdf) STEP file FOEM Switch Module CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_foem_swm.zip) Drawing FOEM Pressure Module CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_foem_prm.pdf) STEP file FOEM Pressure Module CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_foem_prm.zip) Drawing F-OEM Pressure Manifold CAD 2024 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_0222_foem-asmembase-manifold.pdf) STEP file F-OEM Pressure Manifold CAD 2024 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/01/fgt_prtext_0222_foem-asmembase-manifold.zip) Drawing F-OEM Electrovalve Module CAD 2024 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/01/fgt_drwext_0822_mev-foem_0101-1.pdf) STEP file F-OEM Electrovalve Module CAD 2024 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/01/step-file-_0822_mev-foem_0101.zip)
- Detailed features and description of the F-OEM
- Related applications
- Why choose flow controller?
- General functions
- Configuration examples
- Software
## Features of the F-OEM
### All-in-one OEM microfluidic flow controller
Pressure modules (positive pressure, negative pressure, or push-pull modules), microfluidic valve modules, and flow sensors are directly connected to the main platform.
### Modular
The platform allows one to choose the number of pressure modules (with different ranges, if required), valve modules, and flow sensors. Combine up to 8 pressure modules on a single F-OEM platform.
### Fluigent latest pressure/flow control technology
The F-OEM makes use of Fluigent’s patented Fastab 2 technology. It provides the best response time, pulseless, and highly stable flow conditions for high precision industrial microfluidic applications. This OEM flow control system allows optimal flow control with the reliability required for demanding industrial environments.
### Largest range of pressure and flow rates
Supports both pressure control and direct volume flow rate control depending on user needs. The F-OEM range of modules allows for regulation of vacuum/pressure down to –
800 mbar and up to 7 bar, with the possibility to use a push-pull module (-800 / +1 000 mbar). Liquid flow rate ranges from a few nL/min to 5 mL/min.
## All-in-one modular flow control platform
### Configure your own system:
The F-OEM consists of a main board to which one can add pressure and switch control modules depending on the configuration required. Mixed pressure ranges can be connected to the same board (positive and negative pressures, and Push-Pull).
### Integrated flow control:
To switch from pressure control to flow rate control, one can directly add a flow sensor from our [industrial FS series](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/ "industrial FS series") to the OEM microfluidic flow controller without the need of an additional board. Flow-rates can be monitored or controlled using [Fluigent DFC “self-learning” flow rate control algorithm.](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/ "Fluigent DFC “self-learning” flow rate control algorithm.")
### Single gateway for industrial-grade microfluidic control:
This industrial microfluidic flow controller can be used to control a pressure source and power other third-party devices required in the microfluidic system.
## Related applications
- [
### Combining Microfluidics and Spectroscopy
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/microfluidics-and-spectroscopy/)
- [
### Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
- [
### Contamination-free Liquid Handling System
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
- [
### Microfluidic Drug Discovery
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
## Our OEM flow controller offers our best performance for industrial applications
The F-OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller makes use of the best combination of pneumatic, mechanical, and electrical elements associated with our new generation algorithm: [**Fluigent Direct Flow-rate Control (DFC)**](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/) – **a self-learning algorithm** that performs continuous adjustment over the algorithm parameters based on the actual response time. Its improved reactivity allows countering, in real-time, the interactions between microfluidic channels in complex situations. It allows to overcome [**syringe pumps limitations**](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/) in terms of performance, stability, cost-efficiency, contamination hazards and maintenance.
There are many advantages to direct control:
- Adapted to cell culture or other experiments involving resistance variations: the algorithm adjusts its model to the setup resistance in real-time
- Save precious sample or reagent: reduced time to reach desired flow rates uses less liquid during a calibration step
- Save time with reduced settling time and no calibration
## General functions
A pneumatic path combined with Fluigent’s regulation algorithm has been developed to deliver regulated pressure from a pressure source. The principle of pressure actuation in microfluidic systems is shown in the figure. The benefits of this technology are listed below.
Configuration example of pressure based flow control using the F OEM and flow sensors1. Output pressures, flow rate, and valves can be controlled by using [OxyGEN Fluigent software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/), or our [Software Development Kit (SDK)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/sdk/) for custom software applications.
2. The OEM microfluidic pressure controllers immediately provide the requested pressures with very high stability thanks to the feedback loop.
3. Connecting the pressure outputs to airtight reservoirs provides precise and smooth control of the sample flow into the microfluidic device.
## Configuration examples
***Configuration 1:*** 2 pressure modules. Two pressure modules consisting of a 0 – 2000 mbar and -800 – + 1000 mbar are connected to the main F-OEM board for pressurizing two fluidic reservoirs, allowing for pressure-based fluid handling. No flow sensors. No switch modules. No microfluidic valves.
***Configuration 2:*** 2 pressure modules – 2 flow sensors. Two pressure modules consisting of a 0 – 2000 mbar and -800 – + 1000 mbar are connected to the main F-OEM board for pressurizing two fluidic reservoirs, allowing for pressure-based fluid handling. Flow sensors are connected for flow rate monitoring and control.
***Configuration 3:*** 3 pressure modules – 1 switch module. 3 pressure modules consisting of two 0 – 2000 mbar and a -800 – + 1000 mbar are connected to the main F-OEM board for pressurizing two fluidic reservoirs, allowing for pressure-based fluid handling. A switch module is also directly connected to the F-OEM main board, allowing for connecting a bidirectional 11-port / 10-way microfluidic valve for injection or selection of up to 10 different fluids (Fluigent M-X).
***Configuration 4:*** 1 pressure module and a electrovalve module. The electrovalve module is connected to a 3/2 valve manifold consisting of 8 valves allowing to pressurize on demand up to 8 reservoirs. The manifold is fed with one pressure controllers.
## Components that can be connected to the F-OEM
**FS series – bidirectional flow sensors** (Flow sensor input integrated into the pressure control modules)For flow-rate monitoring and control. We have a large range of flow sensors ranging from 0-1.5 µL/min to 0-5 mL/min.**Microfluidic valves** (Directly connected to the switch control modules)Inject and switch different flow paths. Valve and switch platform for directing the fluid flow, including bidirectional and rotary multi-port port valves
– Fluigent 2-X: 3-port/2-way microfluidic valve
– Fluigent MX: 11-port / 10-way microfluidic valve for injection or selection of up to 10 different fluids
– Fluigent L-X: 6-port/2 position microfluidic valve. It is designed for precise sample injection or fluid recirculation in cell culture applications.**Electrovalves Module**The F-OEM electrovalve control module was developed for connecting and actuating up to 8 x 3/2 electrovalves. This valve system efficiently manages multiple pressure valves using one or two pressure controllers.
It can be used to control the state of the devices, with ON/OFF states with 0-24V with 3W power consumption.
**OxyGEN**
Get full control of the setup in a single interface with plug and play capabilities available for all desktop OS, that allows control, monitoring, and automation features. ver. 1.0.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application: Public SDK libraries are available on GitHub for all integration into the users’ proprietary software ver. 21.0.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets F-OEM Technical Specifications Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/f-oem-specifications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies OEM Case Study: Microfluidic Drug Screening Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual F-OEM User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/f-oem-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key considerations for fluidic system integration Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets F-OEM Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/f-oem-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
## Technologies
- [
### A Microfluidic Pressure Controller Comparison for Your Ultimate Fluid Control System
Read the technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read the technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology
Read the technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
- [
### Liquid Stirring Solutions
Read the technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/liquid-stirring-solutions/)
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Read the technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
- [
### Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump
Read the technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
- [
### Microfluidic Temperature Control module
Read the technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Water analysis
Read the technology](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/water-treatment/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
- [
### Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry
OEM microfluidic electric rotary valve with multi-port (Fluigent M-X)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/)
- [
### Sample injection and recirculation microfluidic valve for industry
OEM 6 port 2 position valve (Fluigent L-X)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-l-x/)
- [
### 3-port/2-way bidirectional valve for industry
Fluigent 2-X
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-2-x/)
## Accessories
- [
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
**Catégories de produit:** Customizable OEM Flow Control Modules
---
### [Microfluidic Flow Control System](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the MFCS
### Easy to set up & use
The Microfluidic Flow Control System can be controlled by Fluigent software to automate your protocols. It can easily be connected to other microfluidic devices such as FLOW UNIT sensors to allow for flow-rate control.
### Independent channels
Each channel can be controlled independently and deliver a specific amount of pressure or vacuum to handle fluids. Available pressure ranges from -800 mbar for vacuum aspiration up to 7 bar for pressure.
### Get superior results fast
Reach your pressure targets rapidly and get your experiment started instantaneously. The field-proven technology lets you quickly obtain reliable and superior results for your experiments.
### Reliable & Reproducible results
The FASTAB™ microfluidic patented technology used by the MFCS™ Microfluidic Flow Control System series avoids cross-contamination as there is no direct contact between the instrument and the reagents. The pulseless and precise control enabled by our pressure-driven technology is critical for repeatable results in many applications.
### Adaptability & Integration
The MFCS™ system can provide negative or positive pressures as needed by using up to four or eight independently controllable channels. In addition, a microfluidic pressure pump can easily be integrated into a setup with the Software Development Kit (SDK).
### Fully customizable
The design of our Microfluidic Flow Control System depends on your needs. You can choose the number of channels in the device (4 or 8), with each channel ranging from -800 mbar to 7 bar, and you even have the option to integrate a pressure or vacuum source inside the instrument. Customize your controller to meet your control needs.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
[Fluigent software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/)
[FLOW UNIT sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Pressure-based microfluidic controller: Better stability & responsiveness
The **MFCS™ series** product range is the first generation of microfluidic systems. Along with the MCFS™-EZ or MCFS™-EX, a manifold can be added to redirect pressure to multiple fluid reservoirs.
The **flow generated** can be **measured** or controlled with [**FLOW UNITs**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)and the [**Flowboard**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flowboard/). The MFCS™-EX provides **up to 8 negative or positive pressure channels** to pressurize multiple fluid reservoirs. It can have an **integrated pressure/vacuum source** or be coupled with the [**FLPG+**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/), an external pressure source, for those who don’t have access to a laboratory bench-mounted gas source. The Microfluidic Flow Control System can be **integrated**, **automated** or **controlled in real time** using [Fluigent Software Solutions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/).
The technology used in this pressure pump **avoids cross-contamination** because liquids only contact air. The pulseless flow provides improved **reliability** and **reproducibility** of results. The use of pressure to handle fluids also provides a[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)**quick response time** allowing for **precise operations** such as stop flow and accurate pressure/flow rate steps. The MFCS™ series products are well suited to manipulating fluid volumes in the low to sub microliter per minute range.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/higher-stability-1.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/gph_mfcs-mfcs-responsetime.png)
“We use the combination of the pump (FLPG), pressure controller (MFCS), and flow meter for organs-on-chip applications in diabetology, utilizing multielectrode array electrophysiology. As we measure signals with very low frequencies (from 0.1 Hz), our recording conditions are highly sensitive to the noise that could be induced by flow rate variations. We have published several papers using the complete Fluigent system (Perrier et al., Biosens Bioelectron 2018; Jaffredo et al., Diabetes 2021; Lalloulet et al., Lab Chip 2025) and have never encountered issues with insufficient pump pressure or the pressure controller failing to deliver equal pressure on both sides. The responsiveness of the pressure controller to flow rate changes is also excellent. Additionally, the Switchboard, which allows multiple M-switches to be connected in one place easily, and the software, which is very user-friendly, further enhance the system’s efficiency. I recommend this system.”
**Matthieu Raoux, Professor, Group Leader, Cell Biology & Biosensors, CBMN UMR CNRS 5248, University of Bordeaux**
“We have bought Fluigent flow control solution (MFCS™ + FLOWELL, old Flow-Rate Platform, with Flow Rate Control Module) to replace our usual high precision syringe pumps to generate monodisperse microfluidic droplets. Fluigent solution provides a very efficient and reliable flow rate control as well as a significantly higher stability at low flow rates in comparison with syringe pump-based systems. The whole set-up including both hardware and software is very intuitive and easy to work with.”
**Michael Ryckelynck Associate Professor / Institut de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (I.B.M.C.) / UPR-9002 du CNRS, FRANCE**
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
- Examples of use
**PERFORMANCE**
**Stability**<0.1% on the measured value**Resolution**0.03% full range**Accuracy**0.25% full range**Repeatability**<0.001% full scale**Response time**Down to 10 ms
**PRESSURE/VACUUM RANGE**
**Channel part number** **(MFCS™-EZ)****Channel part number** **(MFCS™-EX)****Pressure/Vacuum range******Maximum pressure supply******Required supply**EZ-00345001EX-003450010 to 345 mbar (0 to 5,00 psi)1100 mbar (15,95 psi)900 mbar (13,05 psi)EZ-01000001EX-010000010 to 1000 mbar (0 to 14,50 psi)1100 mbar (15,95 psi)1400 mbar (20,3 psi)EZ-01000002EX-010000020 to 2000 mbar (0 to 29,01 psi)2100 mbar (30,46 psi)2600 mbar (37,7 psi)EZ-07000001EX-070000010 to 7000 mbar (0 to 101,5 psi)7100 mbar (103,0 psi)7600 mbar (110,22 psi)EZ-80800001EX-808000010 to -800 mbar (0 to -11,6 psi)-800 mbar (-11,6 psi)N/A
**STANDARD OPERATING CONDITIONS**
**Operating temperature**20°C (68°F)**Operating humidity**40% HR
**WEIGHT AND DIMENSIONS**
MFCS™-EZMFCS™-EX**Dimensions**160 x 230 x 63 mm265 x 262 x 73 mm**Weight**2.0 kg (4.4 lbs)3.5 kg (7.7 lbs)
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power consumption**1.5 W**Output connectors**Female luer lock (-800 to 2000 mbar)
4mm OD tube (7 bar)**Pneumatic connections**Speedfit
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
### Migrating cells in gradient
Migrating cells in dynamic chemical gradients generated by a microfluidic chamber (cells, gray; chemoattractant with fluorescein,green). Video courtesy of Pr Satoshi Sawai ( University of Tokyo, Japan).
### Microfluidic cell sorting
With the Fluigent Microfluidic Flow Control System (MFCS-4C) one can sort cells by size, shape and deformability as shown in this [publication](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/Content/ArticleLanding/2012/LC/C2LC21083E#!divAbstract) in the journal Lab-on-a-Chip and explained in the next video.
### Separation of parasites from human blood
See an example of applications using the MFCS series: « Separation of parasites from human blood using deterministic lateral displacement, S. H. Holm, J. P. Beech, M. P. Barrett and J. O. Tegenfeldt, Lab Chip, vol.11, 2011
### Microfluidic cell perfusion
The MFCSTM series and Flow EZTM with Fluigent valves can be used for automated cell perfusion as in the next video.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Fluigent Media Kit product icons & images
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Fluigent Media Kit product icons & images Fluigent product icons & images Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/fluigent-product-icons-images/fluigent-product-icons-images/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Success story of SEED Biosciences: Single cell impedance analysis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/success-story-of-seed-biosciences-single-cell-injection-and-impedance-analysis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Cambridge: Microfluidic GUV production and testing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Micro/Nano Bioelectronics and Biosensors (MBIOS) from Tianjin University Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/success-story-micronano-bioelectronics-biosensors/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microbiome culture in droplet using dsurf surfactant Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microbiome-culture-in-droplet-using-dsurf-surfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Droplet and particle manipulation using electrophoretic flow control Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/droplet-and-particle-manipulation-using-electrophoretic-flow-control/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics High Throughput Single Cell Analysis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets MFCS™-EX Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/mfcs-ex-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets MFCS™-EZ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/mfcs-ez-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual MFCS™ series User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/mfcs-series-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Resistance Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Sensor Hub
Microfluidic Flow sensor hub
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flowboard/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Compact Vacuum Pump
VACUUM SOURCE
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### MFCS series low pressure tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/mfcs-ez-low-pressure-kit/)
- [
### MFCS series high pressure kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/mfcs-high-pressure-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Pressure Based Flow Controller
---
### [Micropipette Aspiration Package](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/micropipette-aspiration-package/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the cell aspiration pipette pack
### Extreme precision
Fluigent instruments are the only products with the ability to control small pressure increments (0.007 mbar) at low pressure (0.1-10 mbar). They allow the investigation of subcellular dynamics like cytoskeleton structural and organizational modifications that are not accessible with confocal microscopy.
### Pressure control
Manual aspiration causes inter-operator variability as the applied pressure cannot be exactly quantified. In contrast, Fluigent pressure regulators deliver the set pressure with +/- 0.1% precision.
### Engineered package
Fluigent’s Micropipette aspiration pack is compact, can fit any microscope and micropipette, and is controlled by an intuitive software package. Competitive technologies like AFM, cytoindenter, and optical tweezers are expensive, necessitate specific training, and may require a dedicated microscope.
### Non-invasive
Micropipette aspiration allows for repetitive measurements on the same sample. Variations in cell tension of individual cells within a tissue can be monitored over time.
### Repeat experiments
Thanks to Fluigent’s product responsiveness, a given pressure is instantaneously applied on the cell’s surface (ms range).
Cell surface tension can be measured in 3 to 5 minutes.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
## What can I do with the cell aspiration pipette pack?
Microaspiration has been used to manipulate and probe living materials for decades. The contribution of this method to our modern understanding of cell and tissue mechanics is invaluable.
Cell and tissue mechanical properties are paramount in controlling morphogenesis. Microaspiration techniques allow measuring the absolute values of mechanical properties in space and time in vivo.
At the cellular scale, microaspiration allows the mapping in space and time of surface tensions of individual interfaces within a tissue to understand the forces shaping it. At the tissue scale, microaspiration can be used to measure macroscopic mechanical properties such as viscoelasticity and tissue surface tension that regulate the dynamics of tissue deformation. Here are several applications that can be implemented in your laboratory using [**Fluigent’s pumping technology** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers)and [**expertise**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration).
- **Cell mechanical properties measurement**: Many biological processes are characterized by changes in cell stiffness: cells entering mitosis \[1\], tumor cells transitioning to premalignant stage \[2\], red blood cells infected with malaria \[3\]… These changes occur at cell scale and require precise measurement to accurately quantify cell stiffness. A Dual pipette aspiration assay is a tool to evaluate the relative contribution of cell-cell tension versus cell-medium tension at the cell-cell interface by separating contacting cells (Maitre et al Sciences 2012).
- **Single cell manipulation:** Micropipette aspiration allows spatial positioning of single cells or clusters of cells. Single cell positioning is necessary for single cell analysis or clonal cell line development.
- **Tension heterogeneity within tissue:** Evaluating cell tension at the single cell level allows for mapping of tensions within a tissue. It is particularly useful to investigate the forces driving tissue morphogenesis or embryogenesis (Maitre et al, 2016, Nature)
- **In vitro diagnostic:** Our micropipette aspiration pack allows the measurement of stiffness at cellular resolution, a powerful tool for detecting anomalous behavior that is not accessible or detectable under the microscope. As an example, mechanical properties can predict the viability of embryos within hours after fertilization even though viable and non-viable embryos are morphologically indistinguishable at this stage \[4\]
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
## Pressure are the gold standard for microaspiration
Micropipette aspiration requires [high control over the forces applied to cells](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/ "high control over the forces applied to cells"). A [fast response time](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/ "fast response time") is necessary as transitional states should be minimized.
The microaspiration technique relies on the accurate calibration of the aspiration pressure. Only Fluigent’s micropipette aspiration package can provide products with pressure ranges of 0 – (+/-) 25 mbar, or 0 – (+/-) 69 mbar, to apply small pressure increments (0.007 mbar) at low pressure (0.1 -10 mbar).
The [Flow EZ™ pressure controllers ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)are particularly suited as this method requires applying forces ranging from 10pN to 1nN accurately.
Perform this application with high precision using our products.
References
\[1\] Théry M, Bornens M, Get round and stiff. 2008, HFSP J, 2(2):65-71.
\[2\] Tavares S et al, actin stress fiber organization promotes cell stiffening and proliferation of pre-invasive breast cancer cells. 2017, Nat Commun. 8:15237.
\[3\] Guo Q et al, Microfluidic biomechanical assay for red blood cells parasitized by Plasmodium falciparum. 2012, Lab Chip; 12(6):1143-50.
\[4\] Yanez LZ et al, human oocyte developmental potential is predicted by mechanical properties within hours after fertilization, 2016, Nat Commun. 7:10809
- [
### Webinar – New micropipette aspiration package
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-new-micropipette-aspiration/)
## Main products of the package
## Specifications
- Package content
- Software
**LineUp Flow EZ pressure controller (-69 mbar) x1****LineUp LINK Module (software control) x1****Fluiwell-1C-15 ml HPMFCS (15 mL fluid reservoir)****Compact Vacuum Pump x1****Complete Linear Stage for reservoir displacement x1****Tubing & fitting kit (from the reservoir to the micropipette holder) x1**
**Additional items required **for micropipette aspiration experiments (not included in Fluigent package)****
**Product****Cat. #****Company****Link****Micropipette**ES-Blastocyst Injection Pipettes – BluntBiomedical Instruments[Biomedical Instruments](https://biomedical-instruments.com/index.php/products-side-menu/43-pipettes/pipettes-for-animal-research/es-blastocyst-injection-pipettes/17-es-blastocyst-injection-pipettes-blunt)**Micromanipulator (you can choose between one of the two selected micromanipulators**MMO-4 (upgraded MMO-202ND)Narishige[Narishige](http://products.narishige-group.com/group1/MMO-4/injection/english.html)**Micromanipulator (you can choose between one of the two selected micromanipulators**TransfertMan 4rEppendorf[Eppendorf](https://online-shop.eppendorf.fr/FR-fr/Manipulation-de-cellules-44522/Micromanipulation-44525/TransferMan-4r-PF-26484.html)
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 2.5.0. or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Related Products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Micropipette aspiration of cells and tissues Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Assess Cell Proliferation Using Pressure as a Tool Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-as-a-tool-to-evaluate-cell-growth/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Micropipette aspiration package datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/micropipette-aspiration-package-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
### Protocol for building the micro-aspiration system and how to use it for subcellular surface tension mapping
[Guevorkian K,Maître JL.Micropipette aspiration: A unique tool for exploring cell and tissue mechanics in vivo. MethodsCellBiol. 2017;139:187-201](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28215336/)
### Selected publications from our customers
[Maître JL et al, Asymmetric division of contractile domains couples cell positioning and fate specification, Nature. 2016 Aug 18;536(7616):344-34](https://www.nature.com/articles/nature18958)
[Biro M, Maître JL, Dual pipette aspiration: a unique tool for studying intercellular adhesion. Methods CellBiol. 2015;125:255-67](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0091679X14000089?via%3Dihub)
[Porazinski S et al, YAP is essential for tissue tension to ensure vertebrate 3D body shape. Nature. 2015 May 14;521(7551):217-221](https://www.nature.com/articles/nature14215)
[Maître JL et al, Pulsatile cell-autonomous contractility drives compaction in the mouse embryo. Nat Cel lBiol. 2015 Jul;17(7):849-55](https://www.nature.com/articles/ncb3185)
[Maître JL et al, Adhesion functions in cell sorting by mechanically coupling the cortices of adhering cells. Science. 2012;338(6104):253-6](https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.1225399?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Microfluidic flow controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of our compact flow controller
### Expand as needed
Combine up to 8 modules as your work flow grows. Each microfluidic flow regulator is a separate and independant pressure channel.
### Pressure and vacuum control
The Flow EZ™ range of modules allow for regulation of pressure / vacuum down to -800 mbar and up to 7 bar.
### Local control
Control without a PC using the Flow EZ™ hardware interface with one hand. Focus on the experiment instead of looking at the PC.
### Precise volume delivery
When combined with a FLOW UNIT, one can control flow rate directly or deliver dispensed volumes as needed.
### Various reservoir sizes
Support reservoir sizes from 2 mL to one liter laboratory bottles. The Flow EZ™ can maintain continuous, pulseless flow for days without refilling.
## Highlights
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual## LineUp™ series User Manual
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/lineup-series-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos## The NEW GENERATION of PRESSURE CONTROLLERS : LineUp series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/the-new-generation-of-pressure-controllers-lineup-series/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets## Flow EZ™ Datasheet
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## The Flow EZTM, a state-of-the-art microfluidic flow controller
Based on our industry leading experience, Fluigent has developed the **patented pneumatic system**: the most advanced **microfluidic pumping technology** available. It is at the heart of the Fluigent’s next generation performance providing the **fastest**, **most stable,** and **compact microfluidic system** In the base configuration, the system controls the pressure or [vacuum](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/ "vacuum"), and the liquid flow is a function of system resistance, fluid viscosity, etc. The addition of a **[FLOW UNIT](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/ "Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor")** enables one to **control or monitor flow rate** as well as measure a **dispensed volume**. The pressure automatically adjusts in the background to maintain the set flow rate.
When combined with the [**LINK** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/ "LINK ")module, the **Flow EZ™** flow controller’s capabilities are extended by using Fluigent software to control the system or to generate time based protocols and [record **data** (OxyGEN software)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/ "record data (OxyGEN software)").
The **Flow EZ™** microfluidic flow controller modules are available in different pressure and vacuum ranges to provide the optimum level of pressure control and resolution. These can easily be combined to **match all application requirements** or reconfigure the system for a new experimental design.
“We are really happy with Flugent microfluidics control systems: they are very EZ to use; they are also robust and reliable. We want to highlight in particular the user-friendliness of the software (OxyGEN), and the ease with which one can implement their own third-party programs to embed Fluigent controllers to a bigger setup comprising multiple units from different manufacturers.”
******Prof. Artem Mishchenko ****–********** ****Université de Manchester****
## Discover the most advanced microfluidic flow regulator
With a compact and modular design, this microfluidic flow controller allows you to set and benefit quickly from the pressure-based flow control advantages for your experiments.
## A response time ten times faster compared to syringe pumps.
With the use of pressure instead of mechanical action, the Flow EZTM microfluidic flow controller gets a responsiveness [**ten times faster than syringe pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/). A low response time allows users to quickly execute operations such as stop flow and pressure/flow rate steps.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2021/12/gph_fez-graph-response-time-fez-vs-syringe.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2021/12/gph_fez-flow-ez-pressure-stability.png)
## Control flow rate with the benefits of responsive, pulse-free flow
Pulse-free flow is critical for generating high quality and repeatable results. The Microfluidic flow controller integrates the all-new [**DFC (Direct Flow Control) algorithm**](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/). This allows users to set a flow rate directly on the instrument display. The applied pressure will [**automatically adjust to maintain the flow rate**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/).
“We came to Fluigent when we were building an automated microfluidic platform for screening chemical reactions. Fluigent products are powerful in precise control of the flow conditions and can guarantee the performance of our platform. The pump system is user-friendly and can be extended to complex experimental systems where multiple pumps are needed. The above merits have made our experimental design process smooth and easy.”
Dr. Huizhi Wang- Imperial College London
## Part of our LineUp Series
Pressure and vacuum control, flow rate control, microfluidic valve automation, and software control. Select and combine the modules you need from our range of LineUp™ products. Our devices have become the gold standard for microfluidic flow control over the years.
## Webinar- Flow Control in Microfluidics
Discover the performance, advantages of limitations of common flow controllers, including pressure pumps.
In this [session](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-control-in-microfluidics/ "session"), Dr. Alexandre Grassart will present his groundbreaking research on mechanobiology using a gut-on-chip model, and will highlight how mastering flow control allowed to improve his organ-on-a-chip research.
[Watch the recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-control-in-microfluidics/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-control-in-microfluidics/)
“We connect the chips to the Fluigent pump system because that allows us to deliver more complex flow environments \[…\] and visualize live on the microscope.”
**Martin Knight** | Professor of mechanobiology at Queen Mary university of London
## Focus on the microscope. No PC required
Instead of looking at the PC, users can keep their eyes on the microscope, adjusting the control dial with one hand. In this stand-alone configuration, the device allows for pressure or flow rate control and volume dispense, making it ideal for benchtop use.
 “The Fluigent microfluidics flow system has allowed us to expand our static cell models into a model of cells under flow that represents in vivo conditions more closely. Through this addition, we have been able to increase our publication output, with microfluidics at the heart of this research.
The FlowEZ allows us to manipulate flow rates quickly that allows us to introduce various activators and inhibitors to our cells, and create a system of recirculation that minimizes volume requirements, sample loss, and removes the need for users to be present for the experiment to run for hours at a time.”
**Dr Cass Whelan** | Research Associate, Cardiff Metropolitan University – UK
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**PERFORMANCE**
**Resolution**0,03% full scale**Stability**0,1% on the measured value (effective beyond 10% of the maximum pressure)**Accuracy**0,25% full scale**Repeatability** <0.01% full scale**Response time**Down to 30 ms
**PRESSURE/VACUUM RANGE**
**Part number****Pressure/Vacuum range****Required supply****Maximum pressure supply**LU-FEZ-00690 to 69 mbar (0 to 1,0 psi)150 mbar (0,22 psi)300 mbar (4.35 psi)LU-FEZ-03450 to 345 mbar (0 to 5,00 psi)1100 mbar (15,95 psi)1300 mbar (18.85 psi)LU-FEZ-10000 to 1000 mbar (0 to 14,50 psi)1100 mbar (15,95 psi)1400 mbar (20.3 psi)LU-FEZ-20000 to 2000 mbar (0 to 29,01 psi)2100 mbar (30,46 psi)2600 mbar (37.7 psi)LU-FEZ-70000 to 7000 mbar (0 to 101,5 psi)7100 mbar (103,0 psi)7400 mbar (107.32 psi)LU-FEZ-N0690 to -69 mbar (0 to -1,0 psi)-800 mbar (-11,6 psi)N/ALU-FEZ-N8000 to -800 mbar (0 to -11,6 psi)-800 mbar (-11,6 psi)N/A
**STANDARD OPERATING CONDITIONS**
**Operating temperature**20°C (68°F)**Operating humidity**40% HR
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions**91,9 x 71,8 x 131 mm (3.6 x 2.8 x 5.15 in)**Weight**634 g (1.4 lbs)
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power consumption**6 W
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
**Firmware updater**
Fez Updater[Download](https://updater.fluigent.com/FlowEZ_updater.zip "Download")LINK Updater[Download](https://updater.fluigent.com/LinkUp_updater.zip "Download")
---
## FAQ
### How to determine the pressure range to choose?
Fluigent has developed a flow rate calculator to assist users in selecting the appropriate pressure range and microfluidic flow controller for their microfluidic system. They just have to provide details about their setup, including [chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) geometry, control type, channel and tubing dimensions. generate recommendations for flow rates and pressure ranges based on the provided data.
[Calculate the pressure range with the calculator.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/ "Calculate the pressure range with the calculator.")
### How can I directly control the flow rate?
Fluigent’s Flow Ez technology operates by controlling fluid flow through pressure monitoring, but the company also offers a solution for flow rate monitoring. The Flow Unit is a one-of-a-kind microfluidic [flow sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) that accurately and easily monitors flow rates in any microfluidic system. An advanced thermal sensor technology provides complete media isolation and an extremely low internal volume, with no moving parts. Flow rate is then calculated based on thermal desorption, which is directly correlated with flow rate. This bidirectional microfluidic flow sensor can be used in conjunction with a microfluidic flow controller, such as the Flow Ez. To put in a nutshell, the Flow Unit is capable of measuring ultra-low liquid flow rates quickly and with exceptional precision.
[Learn more about the product.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/ "Learn more about the product.")
### Is a pressure/vacuum source needed in my setup?
The [Line Up](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) flow controllers are not equipped with an internal pressure or vacuum source, but are instead compatible with laboratory-built sources or portable pressure/vacuum generators. Fluigent provides a variety of compact pressure sources, including the [Fluigent RX](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-pressure-source/) and [FLPG Plus](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/) models, as well as a compact [vacuum source](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/). These user-friendly solutions are suitable for any flow rate and application.
### How to program my experiment?
While this microfluidic flow regulator can be used independently, users also have the option of utilizing the [OxyGEN software](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) to control various parameters by simply plugging it into any computer. This software allows for real-time monitoring and automation of experiments, enabling users to create or modify time-based protocols with a variety of dedicated functions. These functions range from simple flow rate control to more complex features like conditional paths or looping. By utilizing the OxyGEN software with microfluidic flow controller and automating their experiments, users can improve the reliability and reproducibility of their results.
## OEM device available
Whether you prefer to use the Flow EZ on a laboratory bench or integrate it into your own product, Fluigent has the perfect solution for your industrial development needs. Let us introduce you our [F-OEM modular microfluidics flow Controller](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/ "Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller") !
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Fluigent Media Kit product icons & images
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 8: Switch it off – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-8-switch-it-off-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 7: Use the P=0 button – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-7-use-the-p0-button-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 6: Add my FLOW UNIT – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-6-add-my-flow-unit-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 5: Disconnect a Flow EZ – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-5-disconnect-a-flow-ez-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 4 : Apply a pressure order – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-4-apply-a-pressure-order-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 3 : Add a Flow EZ – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-3-add-a-flow-ez-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorial Episode 2 : Insert in my setup – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorial-episode-2-insert-in-my-setup-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorial Episode 1 : Getting started – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorial-episode-1-getting-started-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Human Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) permeability -on-chip assessment Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Fluigent Media Kit product icons & images Fluigent product icons & images Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/fluigent-product-icons-images/fluigent-product-icons-images/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Cambridge: Microfluidic GUV production and testing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CEA/CNRS: A flow cell for nanoscopic imaging in liquid Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cea-cnrs-a-flow-cell-dedicated-to-imaging-in-liquid-at-the-nanoscale/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Micro/Nano Bioelectronics and Biosensors (MBIOS) from Tianjin University Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/success-story-micronano-bioelectronics-biosensors/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microfluidics for Transmission Electron Microscopy: Characterization of Copper Electrodeposition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/characterization-of-copper-electrodeposition-in-liquid-phase-electron-microscopy/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Generating a water emulsion in an oil solution using a droplet generator chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/production-of-water-in-oil-emulsions-using-a-droplet-generator-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Oil in Water Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Impedance Measurement of Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual LineUp™ series User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/lineup-series-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Maryland: Microfluidic System for Robotic that can Play Nintendo Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/this-is-a-customer-case-study/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Pneumatic Valve Controller
P-SWITCH
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/p-switch/)
- [
### Compact Vacuum Pump
VACUUM SOURCE
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/)
## Accessories
- [
### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
## Kits
- [
### LineUp supply kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-supply-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Pressure Based Flow Controller, LineUp series
---
### [Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
**Published:** March 16, 2023
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Applications: Control Your Experiment With Fluigent’s Omi
The Omi is ideal for cellular organ models, drug discovery, ADME-Tox and Safety.
### Single Channel Configuration
- **Blood Vessel Reproduction**: Reproduce precise [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/ "shear stress") conditions of blood vessels with endothelial cells-on-chip using the Omi organ-on-a-chip system.
HUVEC cells before connection to Omi platform
HUVEC after 7 days of culture media recirculation with Omi
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
- **Gut-on-chip**: Achieve optimal flow control and sustained culture conditions, enhancing cell differentiation, nutrient delivery, and intestinal barrier function to accurately replicate the human intestine.
Caco2 cells before connection to Omi
Caco2 cells after 7 days of culture medium recirculation with Omi
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- **Gut-on-chip modeling:** A recent paper by Delannoy et al. in *Lab-on-Chip (2025)* compares **static and dynamic cell cultures** and its impact of colonization bacteria (by *L. plantarum* co-culture and *S. Flexneri* infection) on a Caco-2 gut on chip model.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
- [
### Webinar: Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip, featuring the Gut-on-a-Chip Model
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
- **Cancer Drug Discovery**
Mimic the effect of drug compounds on tumor cells to evaluate their response to treatments.
- [Support & Tools### Shear Stress Calculator
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
- **Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model**
To better understand how the liver and kidney jointly process Tacrolimus, researchers *(from University of Limoges Pharmacology and Transplantation UMR 1248)* developed a **interlinked organ-on-chip (OOC) model using the Omi™ Dual Platform.**
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
- [
### Webinar – Liver–Kidney OOC Model to Investigate Drug Disposition
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-liver-kidney-ooc-model/)
---
### Double Channel Configuration
- **Liquid / Liquid interface**:
When the Omi’s fluidic system is paired in two, it allows users to model liquid-liquid interfaces to reproduce physiological functions of different human organ models.
- **Blood-Brain-Barrier**:
Assess vascular permeability and brain cells-on-chip. Our microfluidic functionalities and protocols allow for accurate cell organization and physiology to study the microenvironment of the human brain.
Discover more about organ-on-a-chip technology and its diverse applications with[ our white paper.](https://www.fluigent.com/white-paper-organ-on-chip/ " our white paper.")
« I’m thrilled to share that I’ve used Omi on numerous occasions for my cell biology experiments as part of my PhD. Omi is the simplest tool I’ve been able to use for on-chip organ recirculation and perfusion. Everything is integrated into a single device, and the sterile consumables are easy to use, which greatly reduces the risk of contamination.
Tablet and web applications allow real-time monitoring of experiments in progress, making it the perfect user-friendly tool. I’m really excited to be able to develop new biological applications with Omi! »
**Arthur Salles – PhD Student**
**CNRS LIED – Team « Microsystèmes Cellulaires » – Université Paris Cité**
## Free contents that might interest you
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### Omi Fluigent Technical Datasheet
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/omi-fluigent-technical-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Omi Fluigent User Manual
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/omi-fluigent-user-manual/)
- [
### Webinar: Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip, featuring the Gut-on-a-Chip Model
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
- [
### Webinar – Mastering Microphysiological Precision with Omi
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-mastering-microphysiological-precision-omi/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
## Several Protocol Functions Can Be Produced with a Single OMI Platform
### Perfusion
Perfuse up to 3 mL of several types of liquids such as cell culture media for long periods of time in a controlled and reproducible way. The Omi can perfuse culture media at low flow rates, making it easier to maintain sensitive spheroid and organoid cultures within microfluidic chips.
### Recirculation
The microfluidic organ on chip system can produce unidirectional recirculation of mediawhile maintaining user defined flow rates with high precision. Read our technical note on [**long-term recirculation for organ-on-a-chip applications**](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/omi-technical-note.pdf).
### Sampling
Sample up to 3 mL of soluble factors secreted in the culture medium for analysis or imaging.
### Injection
Inject up to 3 mL of fresh medium during an experiment.
*Flow rate and pressure rate monitoring over time for 50 µL/min*
You want to book a demo or talk to an expert?
[Get in touch!](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Designed to fit in incubators, and easy to transport to a microscope for imaging or cell analysis
### Completely autonomous platform
The Omi features a two-hour battery backup supplyfor uninterrupted operation. In addition, Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connectivity ensures easy setup and monitoring of your protocols through its user-friendly application interface. It can easily be transported from an incubator to a microscope to perform live cell imaging while maintaining cell perfusion under battery power.
### Reproducibility and experimental versatility
The Omi automated perfusion platform can be used in different modes:
**Single mode** : single channel perfusion for cell culture, such as blood vessel
**Dual mode:** double channel perfusion for co culture to perform liquid/liquid interface or blood-brain barrier by synchronizing two Omis with one organ-on-a-chip.
### Compact and Transportable: One incubator, several Omis
This space saving platform allows multiple Omis inside a single incubator for a given experiment. Units can be easily transported to a microscope for real-time monitoring while maintaining perfusion.
### Contamination-free
Inject cell or fresh medium, deliver test compounds, collect samples without disconnecting the microfluidic chip and disturbing the experiments.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- FAQ
**PERFORMANCE**
**Flow rate control**From 1 µL/min to 1 mL/min\***Maximum pressure**600 mbar at maximum**Fluid reservoir volume**3 mL**Perfusion / Injection / Sampling volume**From 1 mL to 3 mL**Min volume recirculated**2 mL\* The flow rate depends on the microfluidic chip and the adaptator.
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions (L\*W\*H)**190 x 120 x 60 (mm)**Weight**694 g**Operating temperature**15-40°C**Gas input pressure**Atmospheric pressure**Gas input composition**Dry 2 µm-filtered air, O2/CO2 mix or incubator air
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power supply voltage**24 V DC**Max energy consumption**12 W**Max current requirement**0.5 A**Battery autonomy**2 h
**CARTRIDGE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions**80 x 60 x 36 (mm)**Weight**56 g**Materials**Medical grade polycarbonate and MVQ silicone\***Working fluids**Water based solutions, IPA, Ethanol**Cleaning**Isopropanol, 80%/20% v/v water ethanol solution, tergazyme 1% \*Check the material compatibility of solutions with the wetted materials available in the [Omi’s Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/omi-fluigent-technical-datasheet/ "Omi’s Datasheet")
**TUBING SPECIFICATIONS**
**Material**FEP (provided) , but other materials possible depending on the connector**ID**250 μm (provided), but other can be used depending on the application**OD**1/16” (provided), but other can be used with a compatible 1⁄4-28 flat bottom connector
**Omi SOFTWARE** (tablet)
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 1.2.3 or more recent\*Provided with the Omi device
---
**Omi WEB**:
Manage your team and monitor your running experiments
**1. Can I clean the disposable elements to reuse them?**
No. These disposables are for one time use. If the disposables are reused, Fluigent cannot guarantee accurate results.
**2.** **Can I use ethanol or isopropanol in my protocols?**
No, only during cleaning and sterilization steps.
**3**. **How many experiments can I run with the disposables without replacement?**
One experiment can be run from several hours up to multiple weeks.
**4. How can I clean the Omi organ-on-a-chip system?**
For the external cleaning of the device, gently wipe the surface with a tissue and ethanol or isopropanol.
For the cleaning of the fluidic part, we highly recommend following the specific cleaning protocol that can be found in the Omi App protocol editor. Manual cleaning can be performed using the Omi manual mode by recirculating your own detergent through the system.
**5.** **How many Omi devices can I control with my tablet?**
Users can monitor up to 12 Omi devices with the tablet. In the Omi app on the homepage, up to six devices are visible at once. When you have more than six devices, you must scroll left to the second page to see the other devices. When launching an experiment with the Omi, you will receive data every two or three seconds from the six devices present on the homepage. The devices that are not visible on the homepage are monitored every 30 seconds.
**6. Can I use my own tablet to control the Omi?
Fluigent provides a tablet with the purchase of an Omi. Other tablets can be used, but we do not guarantee the same performance.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Omi Fluigent User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/omi-fluigent-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Omi Fluigent Technical Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/omi-fluigent-technical-datasheet/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
- [
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Perfect organ-on-chip cell perfusion set
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
## Accessories
- [
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- [
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
- [
### Flow Gradient Chip for 3D Cell Culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
- [
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Instruments
---
### [Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the OOC Perfusion Pack
### Optimized seeding
Cell seeding in 3D hydrogel presents challenges.. Hydrogels are fragile and can easily fracture or detach from the chip if the flow is unstable.
Manual cell seeding is not recommended as the discontinuous flow results in heterogeneous cell seeding and can crack the hydrogel.
The manual mode of the Flow EZ included in the Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack is perfect to circumvent these limitations as it allows the implementation of small flow rate increments while keeping an eye on the microscope.
### Generate complex flow patterns
Control flow rate or pressure for applications with constant shear stress such as vascular perfusion.
Reproduce complex flow patterns such as aortic pressure variations while maintaining a unidirectional flow in the chip.
### Protocol automation
Once the parameters are set and optimized, protocol automation saves time, limits contamination, and decreases variability.
Valves, pressure, and flow controllers from Fluigent can be assembled to automate any protocol using user-friendly software (OxyGEN).
### Customization possible
Fluigent’s microfluidic perfusion pack is customizable to fit the needs of specific flow rates and pressures.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
## Main products of the Organ on Chip Pack
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- [
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
BE-Doubleflow
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
- [
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Be-Transflow
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
- [
### Flow Gradient Chip for 3D Cell Culture
Be-Gradient
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
## Why use this microfluidic perfusion pack?
Organ-on-chip studies are gauging interest from the scientific community due to their ability to mimic an in-vivo environment in a precise and controlled manner. In particular, introducing shear stress through flow control and reproducing biochemical environments in cell cultures was made possible due to advances in the organ on chip technologies.
The Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack will allow users to control both pressure and flow rate, switch between media and drugs, obtain a stable and pulseless flow rate, have a large range of flow rates, and customize and create complex patterns.
By combining microfluidic technology, micromachining, and cell biology, environmental parameters can be precisely controlled on organs-on-chips. This may generate [fluid shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/ "fluid shear stress"), [mechanical stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/ "mechanical stress"), biochemical concentration gradients and other physical and chemical stimuli. The cells on the chip can respond to these stimuli, develop self-organization, and express more realistic physiological functions like exhibiting special advantages in the establishment of an in vitro physiological model.
### Cell culture under flow
Cultivating cells under flow perfusion has two main advantages: constant medium renewal and reproduction of mechanical strain in vitro. To grow cells under perfusion using a cell perfusion pack, we recommend using the [BE-Flow chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/ "BE-Flow chip").
[Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/be-flow/)
### Chemotaxis
Cells are constantly exposed to biochemical stimulation from the early embryonic stage to adult life. The spatiotemporal regulation of these signals is essential as it determines cell fate, phenotype, metabolic activity as well as pathological behaviors. Biochemical stimulation is also central in oncology as it drives the migration and expansion of malign tumors.
To study chemotaxis in 3D hydrogel we recommend using [**BE-GRADIENT**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/be-gradient/) with the Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack.
[Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/be-gradient/)
### Co-culture under perfusion
Perform co-culture under perfusion with our Organ on Chip Pack, which is essential for various applications for the following reasons:
- To fully differentiate given cell types, coculture with another cell type is required
- In cosmetics or drug testing to reproduce interfaces link skin, lung or gut and monitor the uptake of active molecules
- To reproduce liquid-liquid or air-liquid interfaces.
The[ Be-Doubleflow](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/be-doubleflow/ " BE-Doubleflow") chip best fit applications in organ-on-chip cell perfusion as a porous membrane separates the central chamber into two channels.
[Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/be-doubleflow/)
### Transwell under flow
Transwells are classic devices widely used in standard cell culture to co-culture cell types, reproduce 2D-2D interfaces, 3D-2D interfaces, study cell invasion, assess monolayer permeability or active molecule uptake.
However, Transwell devices use large volumes of liquid, and communication is therefore slow and low concentration, signalling factors are diluted, which altogether hampers studying cellular communication. Furthermore, the culture is entirely static, which precludes emulation of dynamic processes and the application of controlled cell biochemical and/or physical stimuli.
Using a microfluidic format can solve some of these issues by offering sub-milliliter volumes, dynamic culture, and exquisite spatiotemporal control over physical and chemical parameters in the cell/tissue vicinity.
For this application, we recommend the [**Be-Transflow**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/be-transflow/) included in the Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack.
[Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/be-transflow/)
### Cell culture with regulated Shear Stress
Mechanical forces are potent regulators of cellular structures and functions in both health and disease. As a result of their unique location, endothelial cells experience several mechanical forces.
Of these forces, shear stress is particularly important as it stimulates the release
of vasoactive substances and changes gene expression, cell metabolism, and cell morphology.
To grow cells under regulated shear stress, we recommend to use the OOC perfusion pack with the [**Be-FLOW**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
[Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
No shear stressFlow-induced shear stress– No cell elongation
– No mechanotransduction
– Impaired cell functions – Cell elongation & alignement in flow direction
-Cytoskeletal rearrangement
– Mechanotransduction
– Cell maturation & proliferation
– Nitric Oxid production
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Specifications
- Package content
- Software
- Tutorials
**LineUp Flow EZ pressure controller****LineUp LINK Module (software control)** **Beonchip microfluidic chip****Fluigent connectors and tubing kit**
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
**Connect the chip to the microfluidic system**
---
**Switching from static culture to fluid perfusion**
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets BE-Gradient datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-gradient-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets BE-Transflow datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-transflow-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets BE-flow datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-flow-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets BE-DoubleFlow Standard datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-doubleflow-standard-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- [
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
BE-Doubleflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
- [
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Be-Transflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
- [
### Flow Gradient Chip for 3D Cell Culture
Be-Gradient
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
## Accessories
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Drop-Seq Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/drop-seq-package/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of our drop-seq pack
### Latest design
Each droplet generation device, including the droplet-sequencing pack is based on the design recommended in the latest McCarroll lab Drop-Seq protocol, ensuring the best chances of success.
### Fluigent devices
Precision engineered robust devices durable over a wide range of pressures, temperatures, and flow rates Last
### 23 designs per chip
Provides value for money in a chip that lasts. When the life of one device is depleted, simply move onto the next one
### Produce monodisperse droplets
Reliable and consistent generation of droplets of optimal size for Droplet sequencing
### Efficient production of transcript libraries
Superior design promotes optimal mixing of component fluids, thereby minimizing bead shearing or premature lysis of cells and mRNA release
## Why use pressure for Droplet sequencing?
While the original protocol was developed using syringe pumps, in the field of droplet sequencing, [**pressure-controlled systems**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) have a few advantages.
First, in terms of raw performance, pressure-driven systems are **faster to set up**, **easier to control**, and **more stable over time**, which allows for an emulsion of **better quality**: the droplet size will be **more homogeneous**, and start/stop populations will be smaller. This leads to **better segregation of the cells**, and less reagent use and less sample loss. Therefore, this allows for more efficient and optimal droplet sequencing.
As the sample and beads need to be agitated throughout the experiment, it is usually done with a bulky stirring bar for syringe pumps. This leads to a dead volume that will not be injected into the chip. Pressure-driven setups can be run using more conventional containers that make it possible to use an external agitation system, such as a standard lab vortexing system.
**Using Fluigent Drop-Seq pack experiment with pressure controller allow then to:**
- **Gain time**: (less than 1 minute to obtain droplet compared to Macosko’s protocol, few minutes).
- Avoid **losing reagents** (cells or beads) during transition time.
- Have **better control** and avoid the problems that could appear with a syringe pump. For instance, using the droplet-sequencing pack prevents the backflow of the beads inside the cell’s channel which could drastically modify the experiment.
## Main products of the package
- [
#### PDMS Drop-seq chip for Drop-seq experiments
Drop-seq chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/drop-seq-chip/)
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Specifications
- Package content
- Software
Product NameProduct NumberLineUp Flow EZ pressure controller (2 bar) (x3)LU-FEZ-2000FLOW UNIT M (x2)FLU-M-DFLOW UNIT L (x1)FLU-L-DLineUp LINK Module (software control) (x1)LU-LNK-0002P-CAP 15 mL (x1)P-CAP15-HPP-CAP 2 mL (x2)P-CAP2-HPDrop-Seq chipODROPSEQCLineUp Supply kit (x1)LU-SPK-0002Tubing & fitting kit (x1)ODROPSEQCTQCTK Flow Unit S and M (x2)CTQ-KIT-LQCTQ Flow Unit L (x1)CTQ-KIT-HQ
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual McCarroll Drop-seq protocol Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/mccarroll-drop-seq-protocol/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Macosko Drop-seq article Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/macosko-drop-seq-article/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Drop-seq protocol Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/drop-seq-protocol/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Drop-seq package datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/drop-seq-package-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
## Accessories
- [
### Digital High-speed Microscope
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
- [
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
## Kits
- [
### Drop-Seq tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/drop-seq-tubing-fitting-kit/)
## References
\[1\] Théry M, Bornens M, Get round and stiff. 2008, HFSP J, 2(2):65-71.
\[2\] Tavares S et al, actin stress fiber organization promotes cell stiffening and proliferation of pre-invasive breast cancer cells. 2017, Nat Commun. 8:15237.
\[3\] Guo Q et al, Microfluidic biomechanical assay for red blood cells parasitized by Plasmodium falciparum. 2012, Lab Chip; 12(6):1143-50.
\[4\] Yanez LZ et al, human oocyte developmental potential is predicted by mechanical properties within hours after fertilization, 2016, Nat Commun. 7:10809
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Microfluidic Size Cell Sorting Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/)
**Published:** January 12, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Features of the cell sorting package
### Complete system
This package includes all the components necessary to start cell sorting experiments.
### Engineered solution
We built the package with quality pressure controllers, microfluidic chips, tubing and fittings to provide the most optimized and versatile system.
### Customization possible
We can adapt the package to fulfil your needs.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
## Cell Sorting Working Principle
The working principle of the cell size sorting pack is the **combination of forces** experienced by the particles. Particles that flow in a spiral microchannel with a rectangular cross-section experience a combination of **Dean drag forces** and **an inertial lift**. The position at which particles of different sizes equilibrate depends on the ratio of these two forces.
This results in **several particle streams that are size dependent**, which can be extracted by designing appropriate outlets (see figure on the right).
## Why use microfluidic for size sorting?
Control flow rate with the [**benefits of responsive, pulse free flow**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
Pulse-free flow is critical for generating **high quality and repeatable results** in our cell sorting pack. The [**Flow EZ™**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) integrates the all-new [**DFC (Direct Flow Control) algorithm**](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/), which allows the user to set a flow rate directly on the instrument display. The applied pressure **will automatically adjust** to maintain the flow rate.
With the use of pressure instead of mechanical action, the Flow EZ™ gets a[ **responsiveness ten times faster than syringe pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/). A low response time allows one to quickly execute operations such as stop flow and pressure/flow rate steps.
## Main products of the package
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
## Specifications
- Package content
- Software
- Schematic
**Fluigent package**
Product NameProduct NumberLineUp Flow EZ pressure controller 2 bar (x1)LU-FEZ-2000**LineUp LINK Module (software control)** (x1)LU-LNK-0002**FLOW UNIT L** (x1)FLU-L-D**Spiral sorter chips Fluidic 382 from *microfluidic ChipShop (x3)***ESORT38215 mL pressure CAP HP (x1)P-CAP15-HP**Fluigent connectors and tubing kit** (x1)SORTKIT01LineUP SUPPLY KIT (x1)LU-SPK-0002
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Single cell sorting of Fluorescent Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-platform-for-cell-and-particle-sorting-application/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## What’s included in the pack
- [Fluigent’s MFCS-EX:](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) A microfluidic flow controller with **8 customizable channels** with different pressure ranges for high precision operations in microfluidic experiments.
- [Fluigent’s Flow Unit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) : Bidirectional microfluidic flow sensors available in multiple low-rate ranges – up to 8 flow units can be used in one platform.
- Incubator grid: An on-demand, customizable grid compatible with the incubator along with reservoir holders.
- Fluigent connectors and tubing kit.
- [
### MFCS™ series
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Features of the cell perfusion system
### Stable & Complex Flow Patterns
Fluigent products have unprecedented performances in terms of precise control, **stability**,and **responsiveness**. High stability is particularly useful for applications with constant **shear stress,** like vascular perfusion.
Our Cell Perfusion Pack creates **high responsiveness** in the reproduction of complex flow patterns such as aortic pressure variations. This level of control ensures consistent and reproducible experimental conditions, minimizing experimental variability.
### Protocol automation & user-friendly interface
Once the parameters are set and optimized, protocol automation is the key to saving time, limiting contamination, and decreasing variability. Using any protocol, valves, or pressure, Fluigent flow controllers can be assembled to automate protocols using **user-friendly software (OxyGEN).**
- [
#### OxyGEN
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
Researchers can quickly become proficient in using the system, reducing the learning curve, and maximizing productivity.
### Versatility
This package can be used for diverse applications with any microfluidic chip.
### Enhanced High-Throughput Capabilities
With the ability to run multiple assays in parallel, our perfusion pack is specifically designed to accommodate high-throughput experimentation while efficiently generating data. **Compatible with Various Applications**
The package is versatile and suitable for a wide range of applications, including drug screening, disease modeling, toxicity testing, and personalized medicine studies.
### Customization
Our high throughput perfusion pack is flexible and adaptable to various organ-on-a-chip models and research needs (specific flow rates, pressure, etc.) The cell perfusion package’s modularity allows researchers to design experiments tailored to their unique research questions.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology?
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
## Microfluidic perfusion for cell culture
Microfluidictechnology has revolutionized cell culture systems by enabling precise control over fluid flow and creating microenvironments that mimic physiological conditions. One key technique in microfluidics is cell perfusion, which involves the controlled flow of fluid over cells or tissues to maintain their viability and functionality.
Cell perfusion begins with the design of a microfluidic device that incorporates intricate channels or networks, typically on a micrometer scale. Cells are then seeded onto the device, either as a monolayer or in 3D structures, and a continuous flow of culture media or other desired fluids is established within the device. This flow is carefully regulated by a [pressure-based controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) to provide nutrients, remove waste products, and maintain a stable microenvironment.
The ability to precisely control the flow rate and duration of perfusion allows researchers to mimic physiological conditions, such as blood flow rates in blood vessels. Real-time monitoring and analysis of parameters like cell viability, proliferation, and metabolic activity provide valuable insights into cellular behavior within these microenvironments.
## What are possible applications for our cell perfusion pack?
### Drug Screening and Development
This setup facilitates the testing of potential drug candidates under more realistic physiological conditions. High-throughput capabilities enable the screening of numerous drug compounds simultaneously, accelerating the drug discovery process and reducing costs.
In this example of the application, Chakrabarty et al. (1) developed a novel microfluidic Cancer-on-a-Chip platform to evaluate patient treatment responses using controlled growth conditions for tumor tissue slices. This system allows for the effective prediction of treatment responses for breast and prostate tumor models, and the culture period could be extended up to 14 days without significant changes in tissue quality.
Figure 1 Cross section of Cancer on a Chip illustrating diffusion and perfusion toward the tissue slice The CoC platform is connected to Fluigents High throughput cell perfusion pack for the entire culture period 1
### Disease Modeling and Pathophysiology Studies
By investigating cellular responses to disease-related factors, this cell perfusion pack could provide valuable insights into disease pathophysiology, facilitating the development of targeted therapies.
In this example, Messelmani et al. (2) developed a new liver-on-a-chip model integrating a hydroscaffold, allowing cells to organize into complex 3D spheroid architecture. This model could play a role in producing a promising device for disease modeling, drug screening,and risk assessment.
Figure 2 Characterization of liver spheroids after 21 days of dynamic culture in a biochip containing a 3D hydroscaffold using Fluigents MFCS 2 F actin and MRP2 staining show the formation of bile canalicular like structures mimicking in vivo liver behavior DAPI nuclei blue phalloidin F actin green MRP2 red and a biliary like network
Another example of disease modeling using Fluigent’s MFCS pack is the work of Paloschi et al. (3). They developed an Artery-on-a-Chip model mimicking the arterial vessel wall by incorporating structural aspects of the vasculature (lumen-intima-media) as well as hemodynamic forces impacting the luminal cells. They were able to characterize novel targets previously unrelated to vascular diseases, and to demonstrate that this model system could be used as a platform for testing novel therapeutic agents.
Figure 3 Scheme represents the utilization of the Artery on a Chip developed by Paloschi et al 3 as a translational tool for disease modeling and drug testing
### Toxicity Testing and Safety Assessment
High-throughput capabilities of our high throughput cell perfusion pack enable researchers to screen multiple compounds for potential toxicity, helping identify safe and effective substances for further development.
### Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine
Researchers can employ the cell perfusion pack to create dynamic microenvironments that promote tissue growth and regeneration.
The platform enables the study of tissue development, cell behavior, and the interactions between different cell types, aiding tissue engineering efforts.
Understanding how tissues respond to different growth factors and conditions can enhance regenerative medicine approaches and tissue transplantation strategies.
## Specifications
- Package content
- Software
**Fluigent package**
**Product Name****Product Number**MFCS-EX System Base -800 to 1000 mbar (x1)EX-11000008MFCS-EX channel 1000 (x8)EX-01000001MFCS KIT 1 (x2)CTQ-KIT-LP-MFCSAir Flow Regulation Kit (x1)10000001Fluiwell-1C-15 ml LPMFCS (x16)11015001Fluiwell-1C 15 mL CTK (x16)CTQ-KIT-F1C15OOC Fluiwell Delrin support for incubator grid plate (x2)OFLUGPLOOC Grid Plate for incubator 2mm thickness (x1)OGPLOOCFRP8 Base (x1)FLB-BASE-8FRP8 Flow Unit M (x8)FLU-M-D-8CTK Flow Unit S and M (x8)**CTQ-KIT-LQ**
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Assess Cell Proliferation Using Pressure as a Tool Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-as-a-tool-to-evaluate-cell-growth/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets MFCS™-EX Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/mfcs-ex-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual MFCS™ series User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/mfcs-series-user-manual/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- [
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
BE-Doubleflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
- [
### Flow Gradient Chip for 3D Cell Culture
Be-Gradient
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
- [
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Be-Transflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
- [
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies with this automated and fully integrated system (Shear stress, flow rate, and pressure control).
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**References:**
1. Chakrabarty S, Quiros-Solano WF, Kuijten MMP, Haspels B, Mallya S, Lo CSY, Othman A, Silvestri C, van de Stolpe A, Gaio N, Odijk H, van de Ven M, de Ridder CMA, van Weerden WM, Jonkers J, Dekker R, Taneja N, Kanaar R, van Gent DC. A Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform Predicts Drug Response Using Organotypic Tumor Slice Culture. Cancer Res. 2022 Feb 1;82(3):510-520. doi: 10.1158/0008-5472.CAN-21-0799. Epub 2021 Dec 6. PMID: 34872965; PMCID: PMC9397621.
2. Messelmani T, Le Goff A, Souguir Z, Maes V, Roudaut M, Vandenhaute E, Maubon N, Legallais C, Leclerc E, Jellali R. Development of Liver-on-Chip Integrating a Hydroscaffold Mimicking the Liver’s Extracellular Matrix. Bioengineering (Basel). 2022 Sep 5;9(9):443. doi: 10.3390/bioengineering9090443. PMID: 36134989; PMCID: PMC9495334.
3. Utilization of an Artery-on-a-chip to unravel novel regulators 2 and therapeutic targets in vascular diseases 3 4 Valentina Paloschi1,2\*, Jessica Pauli1,2, Greg Winski3 , Zhiyuan Wu1,4, Zhaolong Li1 5 , Nadiya Glukha1 , Nora Hummel1 , Felix Rogowitz5 , Sandro Meucci6 , Lorenzo Botti7 , Albert Busch1,8 6 , Ekaterina Chernogubova4 , Hong Jin4 , Nadja Sachs1 , Hans-Henning Eckstein1 7 , Reinier A. Boon9,10,11, Andreas R. Bausch12, Lars Maegdefessel1,2,3
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Microfluidic Recirculation Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
**Published:** August 23, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the pack
### Complete system
Our recirculation pack includes all the necessary components for your experiment.
### Generate complex flow patterns
Control flow rate or pressure for applications with constant shear stress, such as vascular perfusion.
### Dedicated protocols for long-lasting experiments
Build customized, time-based protocols to save time and reduce variability.
With OxyGEN’s automated Recirculation protocol, experiments can be prolonged to last up to **60 hours or more** with a fixed amount of fluid.
### Volume reduction
Drastically reduce the volume of your experiments and the amount of fluid needed with recirculation.
### Shear stress control
Our recirculation pack’s precision and short switching time allow for control of shear stress inside the chip throughout the experiment.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Key products in the Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
#### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
#### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
***Figure 1 Microfluidic Recirculation Setup*** **Figure 2 Fluid going back and forth between the two reservoirs during recirculation**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Specifications
- Package content
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**PRODUCTS**
Our Microfluidic Recirculation Pack contains :
LineUp Flow EZ pressure controller (345 mbar) (x2)LineUp LINK Module (software control) (x1)FLOW UNIT M (x1)2-SWITCH (x2)SWITCH EZ (x1)P-CAP series 15 mL (x2)---
**Figure 3 Schematic of the Microfluidic Recirculation Pack setup**
**FLUID HANDLING SYSTEM**
**Product****Part number**2\*Flow EZLU-FEZ-03452\*2-SWITCH2SW0031\*SWITCH EZELUSEZ1\*LINK moduleLU-LNK-0002
**RESERVOIRS**
**Product****Part number**2\*15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tubeP-CAP15-HP2\*Fluidic T junctionCTQ-TFLU
**FLOW METERS**
**Product****Part number**1\*Flow unit MFLU-M-D
**TUBING**
**Product****Part number**1\*Tubing and connection Kit P-CAP 15mL
FEP tubing with an ID of 500 microns CTQ-KIT-PC152\*Tubing and connection Kit 2-SWITCH CTQ-KIT-2SW21\*Tubing and connection Kit Flow UNIT M CTQ-KIT-LQ
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
*Fig 4 Complete schematic of the two positions of the Microfluidic Recirculation Package**Fig 5 Simplified schematic of the two positions of the Microfluidic Recirculation Package*
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Recirculation Package Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/recirculation-package-datasheet/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual SWITCH EZ User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/switch-ez-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets SWITCH EZ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/switch-ez-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### 2-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/2-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
- [
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Perfect organ-on-chip cell perfusion set
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
- [
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- [
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
BE-Doubleflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
- [
### Flow Gradient Chip for 3D Cell Culture
Be-Gradient
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
- [
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Be-Transflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Be-Doubleflow Features
### Optical qualities
Beonchip device is compatible with any type of optical microscopy and its slide format has been chosen for easy handling under a microscope.
### Easy to connect
Be-Doubleflow is compatible with all Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers
### No unspecific absorption
Unlike in other PDMS devices, the double channel microfluidic chip is made of lipophobic thermoplastic materials and does not present unspecific drug absorption issues. It allows immunohistochemistry with fluorescent detection
### Cell recovery
The cell cultures used in the chip can be easily recovered for further experimentation.
## 2D and 3D Culture models used with the Beonchip device
Crosstalk between neighboring cells underpins many biological processes, including cell signaling, proliferation and differentiation. With this chip, users can explore the crosstalk in the endothelium epithelium barrier under flow in both channels of the device, mimicking a more physiological environment for the study of different organs such as kidney, [liver](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/), [gut](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/), or heart, among others.
## Hypoxic cell culture
Hypoxia is defined as an insufficient supply of oxygen to body tissues and cells. It plays an important role in various physiological processes and human diseases. As a result, it is an essential subject of experimental study to discover its underlying mechanisms and to create and evaluate treatments for hypoxia-related conditions. As animal models in living organisms cannot fully reproduce certain essential aspects of human physiology, attention has turned to human cell cultures. However, it is important to note that these cultures can introduce biases, particularly when the oxygen concentration around the cells (partial pressure) does not faithfully reproduce the dynamic oxygen conditions found in living organisms. Using the double channel microfluidic chip in combination with [Fluigent equipment](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/) ensures good mimicking of the in-vivo environment. \[1\]
In fact, it can combine 3D and 2D cultures in a hypoxia environment where oxygen is supplied to the cells via the medium flowing in one of the channels.
It is also possible to research the effect of circulating particles such as circulating tumor cells, immune system cells, bacteria, fungi, viruses, and many more in single cell culture, or in a complex coculture. For example, the dissemination of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from primary tumors following metastasis – which then spread to lymph nodes and blood – has been considered an important marker for early cancer diagnosis, demonstrating the importance of studying these CTCs. \[2\]
## Be-DoubleFlow applications
This chip allows endothelium/epithelium barrier coculture where hypoxic conditions for cell culture are needed or when flux plays a role also in the epithelium culture (Kidney, liver, heart, lung, gut…). In addition, its two perfusable channels offer a perfect environment for studying the effect of circulating particles (bacteria, immune response, circulating tumor cells).
**Example applications**
**Kidney on chip:** The coculture of HPTC cells and vascular endothelial cells clearly improves the performance of the HPTCs and increases the maintenance of the renal epithelia in vitro. By using the double channel microfluidic chip, it is possible to coculture both types of cells simultaneously, circulating urine on the renal epithelium culture and blood-like medium in the vascular culture. \[3\]
**Gut-on-chip:** The gut plays a crucial role in fundamental processes such as digestion and absorption, requiring the participation of various cell types. In the context of gut-on-a-chip models, the Beonchip device is well suited to emulating the low-oxygen conditions typical of anaerobic environments in the microbiome. Moreover, microfluidic methodologies offer the added advantage of controlling the structural arrangement of the cultured model. When it comes to intestinal models, it becomes imperative to assess factors such as the movement of molecules or cells, a task for which conventional 2D well plates are not up to the task. The Be-Doubleflow device provides a solution to this problem, featuring a structure in which two distinct cell culture channels are separated by a porous membrane. This configuration facilitates the cultivation of a variety of cell types, and enables assessments to be made of cell transport and uptake processes. \[4\]
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Schematic
- Tutorial
**PERFORMANCE**
**Height****Width****Length****Total volume****Each channel**375 µm1.5 mm45 mm31.2 µL**Inlet/outlet**7 mmUNF 1/4″ – 28 UNF 1/4″ – 28 130 µL**Medium reservoir**5 mm3.6 mm8.8 mm185 µL**Membrane pore size**1 µm 1 µm 1 µm 1 µm
**Getting Started**
Coating and cell culture
[](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WTUOWt5s4DU)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets BE-DoubleFlow Standard datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-doubleflow-standard-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- [
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies with this automated and fully integrated system (Shear stress, flow rate, and pressure control).
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Accessories
## Reference
\[1\] Pavlacky J and Polak J (2020) Technical Feasibility and Physiological Relevance of Hypoxic Cell Culture Models. Front. Endocrinol. 11:57. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00057
\[2\] Das, U.; Banik, S.; Nadumane, S.S.; Chakrabarti, S.; Gopal, D.; Kabekkodu, S.P.; Srisungsitthisunti, P.; Mazumder, N.; Biswas, R. Isolation, Detection and Analysis of Circulating Tumour Cells: A Nanotechnological Bioscope. Pharmaceutics 2023, 15, 280. https://doi.org/10.3390/ pharmaceutics15010280
\[3\] Beonchip, Be-DOUBLEFLOW CUSTOM (10 devices per box), BeonchipWebsite, Applications section, https://beonchip.com/product/be-doubleflow-custom/
\[4\] Beonchip, Be-Doubleflow App. notes: Gut-on-chip 1, https://beonchip.com/be-doubleflow-application-notes-gut-on-chip-1/
**Catégories de produit:** Cell Culture, Organ on a chip and Microscopy
---
### [Aria, An Automated Perfusion System ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Aria Application Examples
Our automated perfusion system can be used for a wide range of applications including ones that synchronize with microscopy.
Examples are as follows:
- [Neuron cell immunolabeling in microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/): Aria facilitates parallel neuronal cell immunofluorescence in up to four microfluidic chips. By automating the cell immunolabeling process, users can significantly reduce the time and effort required to perform the experiment while ensuring consistently stained cells with minimal cell damage and no antibody residue.
- [Calcium imaging in neuron cells](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automating-calcium-imaging/ "Calcium imaging in neuron cells"): Using Aria allows full automation of calcium imaging in neurons, expediting numerous microfluidic experiments. This ensured stable recordings, enhancing reliability and reproducibility.
- [Cancer cell capture and labeling](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/): Aria can deliver **up to 10 different solutions**, automating the entire process of capturing and labelling MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. This includes surface treatment, injection of antibody-coated beads, cell suspension, and immunostaining. This streamlines cancer cell analysis, saving time, reducing reagent usage, and minimizing error margins.
Immunofluorescence of neuron cells
## Features of Aria
### Deliver up to 10 solutions
The Aria allows users to **automate** the **delivery of up to 10 different solutions** into a chamber or microfluidic chip by following user-defined protocols. It covers applications where the volumes injected range from 40 µL to hundreds of mL delivered over several days.
### Intuitive software to automate any protocol
The perfusion system comes with intuitive software that helps facilitate complex protocol design in a few clicks. Incubation time, flow rate, and volume dispensed are all parameters that can be easily set by the operator for each step of the protocol. Protocols can be saved and recalled/edited for future use. The software notifies the user of the minimum volume required in each reservoir to run their protocol.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/software-aria.jpg)An example of an immunolabeling protocol created with Aria software
### Preserve sample integrity
Our system **generates minimal shear stress** for cells and allows users to achieve liquid flow continuously**.** The sample is also maintained contamination-free, as no manual operations are done.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology?
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
### Ideal for imaging studies
Users can further automate imaging protocols by synchronizing it with various microscopes using TTL or TCP signaling. This is ideal for applications where long-duration or high-resolution imaging is needed. The Fluigent’s Aria software comes with a dark mode to work in an imaging room and is equipped with LEDs to facilitate use in dark areas.
### Improve reproducibility
Fluigent’s Aria drastically reduces variability down to 0,5% between experiments compared to 5.1% intra-operator variability and 8.1% inter-operator variability using a pipette.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Publications
[Radtke, AJ, et al. IBEX: an iterative immunolabeling and chemical bleaching method for high-content imaging of diverse tissues. Nature Protocols (2022) doi: 10.1038/s41596-021-00644-9](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00644-9 "Radtke, AJ, et al. IBEX: an iterative immunolabeling and chemical bleaching method for high-content imaging of diverse tissues. Nature Protocols (2022) doi: 10.1038/s41596-021-00644-9
")
[Huang, K. et al. A Novel Method to Map Small RNAs with High Resolution. Bio-protocol (2021) doi: 10.21769/BioProtoc.4128.](https://bio-protocol.org/e4128?p=51&way=207 "Huang, K. et al. A Novel Method to Map Small RNAs with High Resolution. Bio-protocol (2021) doi: 10.21769/BioProtoc.4128.
")
## Media
[Radtke, AJ, et al. IBEX: An open and extensible method for high content multiplex imaging of diverse tissues, Presented at CZI HCA network and HuBMAP consortium](https://arxiv.org/ftp/arxiv/papers/2107/2107.11364.pdf "Radtke, AJ, et al. IBEX: An open and extensible method for high content multiplex imaging of diverse tissues, Presented at CZI HCA network and HuBMAP consortium")
## Why use an automated perfusion system for spatial omics?
Applications like DNA hybridization, high-resolution spatial transcriptomics, DNA paint, FISH, [immunolabeling](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/), and tissue profiling require high-resolution microscopy as they target nanometric structures inside the cells. Many of these experiments require long imaging times which can now be automated.
- Automated IBEX multiplex immunohistochemistry with Aria
- Automating Cellular Immunolabeling in Microfluidics
- Automating Cellular Studies
- Automated fluid delivery for cell and tissue imaging
- Spatial omics platform
## WEBINAR: Automated IBEX multiplex immunohistochemistry with Aria
Are you considering automating your immunohistochemistry experiments with microfluidic-based technology? Meet Dr. Colin Chu from the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology, UK. He will guide you through the technique he helped develop with his team from the Germain Research Group at the US National Institutes of Health called [“Iterative Bleaching Extends Multiplexity”](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-ibex-multiplex-immunohistochemistry/ "“Iterative Bleaching Extends Multiplexity”"), where they achieved the simultaneous labeling of up to 40 proteins within a single tissue section using Fluigent’s automated perfusion system, the Aria.
[Have a live discussion](http://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/) with our experts and the option to discuss specific applications
[More about this webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-ibex-multiplex-immunohistochemistry/)
## WEBINAR: Enhancing Microfluidic Cell immunolabeling with Aria Technology
Discuss approaches to automating the cellular immunolabeling process using microfluidic devices, thereby increasing efficiency and reproducibility.
**Agenda:**
- Introduction to Fluigent’s expertise in the field of microfluidics and Organ-on-chip
- Aria: Fluigent’s automated sequential injection system
- Success story using Aria for neuron immunolabeling
- [Have a live discussion](http://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/) with our experts and the option to discuss specific applications
[More about this webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/microfluidic-cell-immunolabeling-webinar/)
## WEBINAR REPLAY – Automating Cellular Studies with Aria
Watch the **webinar** by our team about [**Automating Cellular Studies with the Aria** **Automated Perfusion system.** ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-automate-cellular-studies/ "Automating Cellular Studies with the Aria Automated sequential injection system. ")
The Aria system provides rapid experimental setup, ease of use, and can automate even multi-day protocols. It can interface with many microscopes to further simplify the process of reagent delivery and imaging. Aria is the best solution to automate your lab work. Highly flexible, it can adapt to any perfusion chamber and any protocol thanks to its intuitive software. Aria is also a tool for automating complex protocols for live-cell imaging (immunostaining, omics applications, radiometric imaging).
[Watch the webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-automate-cellular-studies/)
## WEBINAR REPLAY – Automated fluid delivery for cell and tissue imaging
Want to gain time, precision and reproducibility for your immunofluorescence assay, or any other assay requiring injection of multiple solutions on your sample? Watch our webinar to learn[ how to interface a flow chamber (or microfluidic chip) to our automated fluid delivery device ARIA.](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-automated-fluid-delivery/ " how to interface a flow chamber (or microfluidic chip) to our automated fluid delivery device ARIA.") This will allow you to deliver **up to 10 different solutions** in a sequential and autonomous manner. In addition, ARIA can be **synchronized with any microscope** to launch an image acquisition cycle and resume the **perfusion protocol** once the imaging cycle has been completed.
This all-in-one workflow facilitates alternation between cycles of injection/incubation time with reagents and image acquisition, a feature particularly well-adapted to complex cell and tissue imaging. Here we will present some example applications such as multiplexed tissue imaging, DNA-PAINT and seqFISH, as well as cell capture and staining.
[Watch the webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-automated-fluid-delivery/)
## WEBINAR REPLAY – How to turn your fluorescence microscope into a spatial omics platform
Current approaches in genomics, transcriptomics, and proteomics yield quantitative abundance analysis of biomolecules on an almost routine basis, with a critical impact in the life sciences.
However, coupling this high content to spatial information in a single-cell and tissue context is still a challenge, and this is where our efforts are presently focusing.
In this webinar, I will share my facility’s experience in [building spatial omics platforms. ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-spatial-omics-platform/ "building spatial omics platforms. ")
First, I will provide an overview and comparison of microscopy-based methods for spatial omics. Then, I will present details and resources on how to build such a platform.
Finally, I will show the existing tools available for image and data analysis associated with these methods.
It is my hope that our experience can serve others in the road ahead to help decide which technique is best for their applications and to assist in their implementation.
[Watch the webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-spatial-omics-platform/)
---
## Reduce experimental error
Manually changing solutions under the microscope presents several challenges:
- Risk of displacing the dish and recorded positions of Regions of Interest (ROI)
- Potential loss of samples
- Increased risk of sample contamination
- Possibility of liquid spillage over the microscope
- Errors in the sequence of solutions due to the complexity of the process
Having an automated fluidic system reduces experiment duration, which can extend up to 4-5 days per experiment and requires constant scientist presence.
PipetteAriaType of injections**Abrupt** injection (up to 1mL in few seconds)
**Disparate** injections
**Turbulent** flow**Smooth & controlled** injections
**Identical** injections
**Laminar** flowGeometry at injection tip**Conic** shape: important **shear strain**
**Unhomogeneous** fluid velocity**Straight** shape: No modification at the injection tip
## Seamless integration through our dedicated SDK
An **SDK library** allows users to customize the software to interface with external devices. This feature facilitates creation of exciting protocols with great potential, like the one featured in **Nature Protocols**. The authors developed an iterative immunolabeling and chemical bleaching method, called [iterative bleaching extends multiplexity (IBEX)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/), that enables multiplexed imaging (>65 parameters) in diverse tissues, including human organs.
“I got to test Aria automated sequential injection system in my research project in a collaboration with Fluigent. More precisely, Aria injection system helped me automatize the capture process and immunostaining of breast cancer cells under a very precise and controlled flow rate. The software interface is so user-friendly that I was being able to follow in real-time the progression of my experiment. The amazing part is that ARIA even calculated the total amount of time required for each step and helped me avoid the waiting time in front of my setup! It made my experiment go as smoothly as possible.”
**Emile Lakis / Curie Institute, IPGG / Paris**
## Choose the perfusion system that best meets your needs
### Single output version
**Perfect for high-quality multiplexed imaging experiments.**
Aria is connected to a [2-switch](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/) to deliver up to 10 fluids into one sample.
### Serial output version
**Automate staining or any routine protocols with multiple fluid delivery.**
Aria is connected to an [M-switch](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/) to deliver up to 10 fluids into 9 samples.
## Perfect for high-quality multiplexed imaging experiments
Aria is the perfect compromise between manual pipetting and all-in-one systems that are dedicated to one specific application, integrating a microscope, specific chip type and a given set of solutions. Any protocol with multiple solution delivery can be automated, saving the scientist time and reducing variability between experiments compared to manual procedures. Discover our [Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/ "Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform").
[
### Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/)
“Just wanted to say thanks again. We were able to run a 50 step Aria protocol on four separate occasions this weekend. Saved us more than a full day of work (*~*28 hours).”
**M. Serrata / Wyss Institute / Boston, Massachusetts**
## Specifications
- Technical specifications (Aria single output)
- Software and SDK
- Schematic
- How Fluigent’s Aria works
**PERFORMANCE**
**Flow rate control**Over the range of 3,2 µL/min to 80 µL/min (Flow UNIT M)
or 40 µL/min to 1 mL/min (Flow UNIT L) for water**Pressure control of flow rate**To a maximum of 2 bar **Valves**Ten position switching valve and two position switching valve**Fluid reservoirs**15 mL standard, 2 mL available **Flushing solution reservoir**100 mL**Tubing**FEP with OD of 1/16 inch and ID of 250 µm **Wetted surfaces**Polypropylene, FEP, Glass, PEEK, PCTFE, UHMW-PE, EPDM**Compressed air source**Requires non-corrosive, non-explosive, biocompatible compressed air (lab line, gas
cylinder, compressor or Fluigent FLPG) **PC specifications**Windows 7 or higher
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions**382 mm x 240 mm x 265 mm **Weight**9 kg
**ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power supply voltage**24V DC
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non-corrosive or non-explosive gas **Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solutions only
**Aria software**
Real-time control, protocol automation, data record and export.**Aria SDK**
**The SDK library** collects the available software functions for users that wish to integrate our liquid handling functions into their own software for automated workflows, allowing them to have a single interface to actuate all components that are part of their fluorescence microscopy system (fluid management unit, imaging unit, heating devices, incubator, etc.).
To save time and minimize reagents consumption, the system loads its internal and external tubing with the successive solutions to inject in the chip.
## Working principle of the system
If the protocol commands to inject 40 µL of solution A, incubate for 1 hour, inject 50 µL of solution B, incubate for 1 hour then wash with buffer for 5 minutes and the total volume of tubing ( internal + external) is of 300 µL Aria will prefill tubing as follows:
As a consequence, calibration of the tubing length and related volume is necessary.
**Here is a description of all the functions available to optimize protocol writing in Aria**
## Calibration of Aria
Calibration is automated and the software assists the user to determine the total volume of his step up (internal volume + L1+L2). Calibration values are recorded for future experiments.
## Prefill
Initially all tubing inside Aria is dry. The “Prefill” function is recommended as a first step to load all solutions inside the device without injecting air in the chip or chamber. This function can be deactivated if the user performed the loading manually. Fluigent strongly recommends using this function.
## Perform perfusion & injection with Aria
Perfusion can be set in terms of volume (ex: step 1) or duration (ex: step 2) of injection.
The user selects the reservoir of the solution to inject (ex: reservoir 1), sets the flow rate (ex: 100 µL/min) at which the solution will enter the flow cell and the volume (ex: 100 µL) or duration (ex: 1min) of injection. The flow rate range is from 40 µL/min to 1 mL/min. The software automatically calculates the time at which the solution should enter the flow cell.
## Incubation / wait
Incubation time can be easily set by entering the duration of the incubation (ex: 1h30) in the ‘wait’ function.
The ‘wait for user’ function is a variation of the ‘wait’ function. It is particularly useful if the user must perform a manual operation like preparing cells before injection. The system waits until the user notifies that it can proceed to the next step. In absence of notification by the user, the system proceeds to the next steps after 12 h.
## Clear tubing
To prevent contamination between perfusion, the tubing can be cleared with a buffer using the ‘Flush tubing’ function. The user selects the reservoir containing the wash solution (ex: reservoir 10) and the flow rate at which the tubing is flushed (ex: 100 µL/min).
Aria pushes all the residual fluids contained in the L1 tubing to waste and fills the L1 with wash solution. The Buffer contained in L1 will also be directed to the waste. This operation does not involve flow to the chip as neither residual fluids nor buffer enter the chip. However, the residual fluid contained in L2 will not be cleared. For this reason, Fluigent recommends the user to keep L2 as short as possible.
## External synchronization
Aria is equipped with TTL and TCP signalling and can send and receive both signals.
- *Sending TTL or TCP*
Each step is flanked by two bells () : at the front and back of the settings (see below for ‘volume injection step).
Click on each bell to begin activation. they get activated (). Aria will then send a TTL or TCP signal either when the step starts (example below) or ends or both.
Fluigent recommends using this function to synchronize perfusion and imaging.
- *Receiving TTL* *or TCP*
The ‘Wait for Signal’ function puts the Aria on hold. The Aria then waits for an external signal, either TTL on input port or TCP, to run the next steps. If the Aria does not receive signaling after 12 hours, it automatically proceeds with next steps.
## Minimum volume reservoir
Fluigent’s Aria is designed to minimize reagent consumption. An additional volume of liquid (36µL) is necessary to preload the system and to ensure that some residual liquid is still present in reservoir after perfusion to prevent delivery of air to the system.
As the user writes his protocol, the software calculates the minimum volume that should be placed in each reservoir to successfully run the protocol.
## Write, load, save sequence
To design a new sequence, click on “Create new sequence”.
Before running a sequence, the software will automatically ask the user to save it.
All saved sequences are accessible and can be loaded by clicking on “Load sequence”.
## Recorded data
For each experiment, the system automatically records and saves the flow rate, pressure, the reservoir from which the solution is withdrawn if solution is delivered to the chip or waste. All data is accessible by clicking on “open logs folder”
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Automating calcium imaging in neural cells with Fluigent’s Aria Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automating-calcium-imaging/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Aria SDK User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/aria-sdk-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Rochester: A tissue chip platform for real-time sensing of secreted inflammatory markers using ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tissue-chip-platform/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Aria Technical Specifications Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/aria-specifications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Aria User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/aria-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Aria datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/aria-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
## Related products
- [
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
BE-Doubleflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
- [
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Be-Transflow
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
- [
### Flow Gradient Chip for 3D Cell Culture
Be-Gradient
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
- [
### Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform
Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/)
## Accessories
## Kits
- [
### Aria single output tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/aria-2-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### Aria replacement tubing kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/aria-replacement-tubing-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Instruments
---
### [Bubble Trap](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Why and how to use a microfluidic bubble trap
A **microfluidic bubble trap** is a device that is used to **separate air bubbles from a liquid** flow in microfluidic systems. Bubbles are generally undesirable in microfluidics, as even the smallest of them can completely ruin a biological or chemical experiment. They can damage cell membranes, disrupt [**droplet** generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/ "droplet generation"), block channels, prevent current conduction in a capillary, or sweep biological and chemical agents away. Bubbles can come from an inhomogeneous solution or from the presence of fluidic components with [**dead volumes**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-volume-definitions/), randomly getting in the fluidic path. Therefore, it is essential to remove these bubbles before they cause any damage, and adding a bubble remover to your microfluidic setup may be necessary to avoid endlessly repeating an experiment due to bubble-related damage.
There are **various ways to use a bubble remover**, but the most common method involves using a hydrophobic micro-porous membrane (PTFE) that the liquid and air bubbles flow through. The hydrophobic surface repels the liquid, causing it to flow around the bubble and allowing the bubble to move freely towards the trap. The trap consists of a narrow channel where the bubble gets trapped and diverted to an area where it can be removed from the system. The narrow channel’s design ensures that the bubble is trapped, and the liquid can flow freely without any interference from the air bubble.
To use a debubbler, you need to ensure that it is properly integrated into your microfluidic system. This involves connecting the trap’s inlet and outlet channels to the main microfluidic channels, allowing the liquid to flow through the trap. It is important to note that the device’s efficiency depends on various factors such as the [flow rate](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/), the viscosity of the liquid, and the size of the air bubbles. Therefore, it is crucial to optimize these parameters for best results.
## Using a microfluidic debubbler in your Fluigent setup
To prevent the formation of bubbles in your microfluidic setup, certain steps are essential. Firstly, it’s important to ensure that your fluid is free of any bubbles from the outset. This initial bubble-free state will minimize the potential entry of air into the system. The second step involves using a bubble remover, which consists of two fluid ports and one gas exhaust. The first port serves as an inlet for the fluid, while the second port functions as an outlet. By passing the liquid through this device, any remaining bubbles should be effectively removed.
To include the bubble trap in a microfluidic setup, the user simply needs to connect the inlet port of the trap to the part of the fluid system where bubbles are likely to be present. The outlet port should be connected to the desired setup destination, such as a [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/). Either 1/16 or 1/32 OD tubing and standard 1/4″-28 fittings can be used for this purpose, and the flow rate through the bubble remover can reach up to 5mL/min. After using the equipment, it is advisable to flush the unit with de-ionized or distilled water to prevent the formation of salt crystals. This practice helps to prolong the lifespan of the trap.
However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind. The debubbler cannot be autoclaved, and is suitable **only for aqueous flows**. Using organic liquids may result in leakage. Additionally, the bubble trap should not be used in withdrawal mode as it may generate bubbles. It is crucial to always push the liquid towards the trap to ensure proper functionality.
*Figure 1 Microfluidic set up using the bubble remover*
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [Expertise### Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Considerations
MaterialPVC/PTFE**Maximum pressure**Up to 2 bar**Maximum flow rate**Up to 5 mL/min**Connection**1/4-28 flangeless fittings**Weight**450 g
- This item is not autoclavable
- This item should not be used with organic solvent
- The membrane lifetime depends on the kind of fluids being used
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- Expertise
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [ Expertise Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Rochester: A tissue chip platform for real-time sensing of secreted inflammatory markers using ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tissue-chip-platform/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Bubble trap kit
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/bubble-trap-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Accessories
---
### [Fluid Degassing Device for Microfluidic System](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device/)
**Published:** November 23, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the Degassing System
### High Degassing Efficiency
The Degasser is highly efficient at removing air bubbles and dissolved gases from the liquid, connected to a vacuum or negative pressure source, it creates a pressure gradient across the non-porous semi-permeable tubing, which allows gas molecules to diffuse out of the liquid and into the vacuum chamber.
### Compact
The Degasser is small and can be easily integrated into microfluidic setups. The device can be mounted on a standard microfluidic setup, saving lab space.
### Small Internal Volume
The device has a low internal degassing membrane volume, which results in easier priming, lower flow restriction, reduced solvent changeover quantity requirements, and faster equilibration times.
### Single Lumen Design
The single lumen design ensures a uniform and consistent flow of liquid through the chamber. This avoids the problems of variable flow rates and pressure drops that can occur in multi-lumen designs, where the liquid flows through multiple parallel channels.
### Large Chemical Compatibility
The fluid degassing chamber has a high chemical compatibility with a wide range of solvents and substances used in microfluidic applications. The tubing is resistant to acids, bases, alcohols, ketones, esters, ethers, hydrocarbons, halogenated compounds, and many other organic and inorganic compounds. The tubing is also compatible with water-based solutions.
### Easy to prime
The fluid degassing device is easy to prime and ready to use in minutes by applying a vacuum or negative pressure source to the vacuum port.
### Inert Flow Path
The tubing is inert to most chemicals and does not adsorb or leach any substances into or out of the liquid. The tubing is also biocompatible and does not cause any adverse effects on [biological samples such as cells, proteins, or DNA.](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=biology)
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
- [
### VACUUM SOURCE
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/)
[**More about our pressure-based flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/)
## Why Degas Your Mobile Phase?
Gases dissolved in liquids can form bubbles when pressure or temperature changes, which can affect the accuracy, precision, and performance of the equipment. These air bubbles are undesirable in microfluidics, as even the smallest of them can compromise a biological or chemical experiment. They can damage cell membranes, disrupt [droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/), block channels, or sweep biological and chemical agents away. Therefore, it is essential to prevent these bubbles, before they form and cause any damage. Adding a degassing device to your microfluidic setup may be necessary to avoid repeating an experiment due to bubble-related damage.
The Degasser is a device that efficiently removes these dissolved gases from the fluid stream, preventing bubble formation. The device is also able to remove already formed bubbles. This process reduces noise, improves baseline stability, reduces startup times and ensures more consistent results. It is particularly important in laboratory analysis equipment such as liquid chromatography, HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography), ion chromatography and mass spectrometry. Machines for semi-conductor manufacturing or assembly, and instruments for [immunology, hematology and in vitro diagnostics](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/) also typically deliver more consistent results with a degassing system included in the fluid path.
## The Fluid Degassing Device Principle
Inside the degassing device the fluid flows through a short length of semi permeable tubing located in a small chamber. A partial void is maintained in this chamber by constantly running the vacuum at low speed. The dissolved gases migrate across the tubing wall under a concentration gradient produced by the vacuum as the solvent flows within the tubing. The gases that are removed are expelled, and the chamber is maintained at a constant, preset vacuum level. Depending on your system and needs in degassing efficiency,you can adjust the degassing process by varying the vacuum pump speed as needed.
## How to use the Degasser
Incorporating a fluid degasser into your microfluidic setup involves several steps:
### 1. Position the Degasser
The device should be positioned in this fluid path before any critical components of your experiment, such as [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/). This is to ensure that any dissolved gases are removed from the fluid before it reaches these components.
### 2. Connect it
Connect the inlet and outlet of the fluid degasser to your microfluidic setup A 1/16 OD tubing and standard 1/4″-28 fittings can be used for this purpose, and the flow rate through the degassing device can reach up to 10mL/min, but we recommend under 2 mL/min for optimal efficiency. Ensure that the connections are secure and leak-free.
### 3. Test the system
Once the microfluidic degassing chamber is connected, you should test your system to ensure that it is working correctly. This can be done by running a fluid through the system and checking for any bubbles or inconsistencies in flow.
### 4. Monitor and maintain
Regularly monitor your system to ensure that the Degasser is necessary. To extend the trap’s lifespan, flush the device with de-ionized or distilled water after use to prevent salt crystal formation.
*Example of Degasser integration into a Microluidic SetUp*
## Technical specifications
- Technical specifications
Length (in)0.5Tubing ID (mm)1.143Liquid Connections¼-28 UNF, ¼-28 UNFVacuum connectionsConnections for 6mm OD pneumatic tubingChemical CompatibilityCompatible With Organic Solvents and aqueous based systems. (See Solvent on Datasheet Compatibility Chart)Height (in)1.75Internal Volume Per Channel (µL)480Max Flow Rate (mL/min)10Tubing ID (in)0.045Recommended Flow Rate (mL/min)0 to 2.0Degassing Channel TubingTeflon-AFTMDegassing Channel Pressure Rating70 PSIG (testing pressure)Vacuum Housing MaterialPPSWidth (in)2.48Maximum pressureUp to 7 bars
---
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Remove air bubbles from your system
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Compact Vacuum Pump
VACUUM SOURCE
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
## Expertise & Resources
- All
- Expertise
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Degasser User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/degasser/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Degasser Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/degasser-datasheet/)
- [ Expertise Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Accessories
---
### [Compact Vacuum Pump](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/)
**Published:** April 20, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of our Vacuum Pump
### High flow rate
With a flow rate reaching 7mL/min, this vacuum source allows the realization of many microfluidic experiments.
### Compact
Thanks to its small size and compactness, the vacuum pump can be used in any type of workspace, even the smallest or most cluttered.
### Low vibration and noise level
The Compact vacuum pump has a vibration-free mount, which allows it to limit oscillations as well as the noise level.
### High compatibility
This vacuum source is compatible with many flow controllers thanks to its wide range of negative pressures, ranging from 0 to -1000mbar.
[Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/04/compact-vacuum-pump_datasheet_en.pdf)
[User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/compact-vacuum-pump/)
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Combine with a FlowEz to provide a particularly stable flow
Using this microfluidic vacuum pump, connected to a negative [FlowEZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Microfluidic flow controller") or a Push pull, ensures [pulsation-free flow](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) and therefore better experimental data.
*Figure 1 Comparison between a high precision syringe and a pressure controler*
*Figure 2 The Compact vacuum pump connected to a negative FlowEZ*
## Specifications
- Specifications
- Product compatibility
****PNEUMATIC SPECIFICATION****S
**Minimum pressure**-1000 mbar****Maximum pressure****0 mbar**Free flow (flow rate at 0 mbar output)**1,5 – 7,0 L/min (±10%)
****HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS****
**Dimensions (L\*W\*H)**156 x 119 x 75 mm**Weight**1,3 kg
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power voltage**24 V**Maximum current**900 mA****Maximum power consumption****19 W
**OTHERS**
****Permissible media and ambient temperature****+5 to +40°C
### Microfluidic Flow Controller
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)**[Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Flow EZ"): 0 to -25 mbar, 0 to -69 mbar, 0 to -345 mbar, 0 to -800 mbar.**
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)**[MFCS](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/ "MFCS"): Device without integrated vacuum pump and negative pressure channels.**
### Standalone Vacuum Pressure-Based Controller
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)****[Push-Pull](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/ "Push-Pull") -800 to 1000 mbar****
---
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
## Expertise & ressources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Compact Vacuum Pump – Technical Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/compact-vacuum-pump/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Compact Vacuum Pump – User manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/compact-vacuum-pump/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Pressure Sources
---
### [Microfluidic Flow Rate Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-rate-platform/)
**Published:** October 15, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features Of the Platform
### Precise Flow Rate Measurement or control over a wide Range
The multiple flow sensor platform enables , real time measurements and control of liquid over a wide range of flow rates – from 3.7 nL/min to 5 mL/min.
### Two versions available
The FRP is designed for flexibility, allowing you to choose between two versions: FRP4 (4 flow sensors or FRP8 (8 flow sensors).
### Monitor, Control & Automate Experiments
Bidirectional flow rate measurements from all FLOW UNIT sensors are displayed in Fluigent’s software providing instant monitoring. Additionally, the software can track and record the dispensed volume for each sensor.
When combined with the MFCS™ and LineUp™ series instruments, the sensors enable pressure regulation through DFC (Direct Flow Control), a ‘self-learning’ flow rate control algorithm, allowing the system to monitored or control flow rate rather than pressure.
### Compatible with biological conditions.
The flow rate sensor hub is designed for optimal use in biological environments, including in incubators at 37 degrees C. I The wetted materials (glass) ensure biocompatibility.
## Related Products
- [
### MFCS™ series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Fluigent Flow-Rate Platform User Manual
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fluigent-flow-rate-platform-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### Flow Rate Platform Datasheet
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-rate-platform/)
## Control Your System Using Flow Rate
In cell perfusion applications, precise flow rate control is importan tomaintain cell viability, mimic physiological conditions and [control shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/).[](http://control%20on%20mechanical%20forces%20applied/)[](http://shear%20stress%20control%20is%20a%20fundamental%20aspect/)
Our [Cell Perfusion Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/), combining pressure controllers with our flow control platform, offers an [ideal solution for microfluidic perfusion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/). It is compatible with a variety of applications, including drug screening, disease modeling, toxicity testing, and personalized medicine. For example, Chakrabarty et al. developed a Cancer-on-a-Chip platform to evaluate patient-specific treatment responses, enabling accurate predictions of therapeutic outcomes in breast and prostate cancer tissues (1).
The system supports the replication of pulsatile flows found in arteries, for blood vessel-on-chip models.
Figure 1 Microfluidic screening platform for organ on chip application 2
## Specifications
- Sensor performance
- Mechanical specifications
- Product caracteristics
- Software
**Sensor performance**
**Sensor model** **XS****S****M****L****XL****Part Number** FLU-XS-8 FLU-S-D-8FLU-M-D-8 FLU-L-D-8FLU-XL-8 **Calibrated media** Water Water
IPA Water
IPA Water
IPA Water **Range** 0±1.5µL/min Water:0±7 µL/min
IPA: 0±70 µL/min Water: 0±80µL/min
IPA: 0±500µL/min Water: 0±1mL/min
IPA: 0±10mL/min 0±5mL/min **Accuracy (m.v.= measured value)**
**also applies to negative values** 10% m.v. above 75 nL/ min
7.5 nL/min below 75 nL/ min **Water**
5% m.v.above 0.42 µL/min
21 nL/min below 0.42 µL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 4.2 µL/min
210 nL/min below 4.2 µL/min **Water**
5% m.v. above 2.4 µL/min
0.12 µL/min below 2.4 µL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 25 µL/min
5 µL/min below 25 µL/min **Water**
5% m.v. above 0.04 mL/min
1.5 µL/min below 0.04 mL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 0.5 mL/min
100 µL/min below 0.5 mL/min 5% m.v.above 0.2 mL/min
10 µL/min below 0.2 mL/min **Lowest detectable flow increment** 3.7 nL/min 10 nL/min 0.06 µL/min 0.7 µL/min 3 µL/min
**Mechanical specifications**
**Sensor model** **XS****S****M****L****XL****Sensor inner diameter** 25µm 150 µm 430 µm 1.0 mm 1.8 mm **Total internal volume** 1 µL 1.5 µL 5 µL 25 µL 80 µL **Maximum pressure** 200 bar 200 bar 100 bar 15 bar 15 bar **Wetted materials** PEEK and Quartz Glass PEEK and Quartz Glass PEEK and Borosilicate
Glass PEEK and Borosilicate
Glass **Fluid connector ports** UNF 6-40 for 1/32” OD tubing UNF 6-40 for 1/32” OD tubing UNF 6-40 for 1/32” OD tubing Flangeless fitting 1/4-28 Flangeless fitting 1/4-28
**Product caracteristics**
**FRP**FRP4FRP8 **Dimensions**12,9 cm (l) x 7,3 cm (w) x 5.2 cm (h)12,9 cm (l) x 7,3 cm (w) x 5.2 cm (h)**Weight** 270 g310 g
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Cleaning Procedure Flow Units Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cleaning-procedure-flow-units/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow Rate Platform Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-rate-platform/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Fluigent Flow-Rate Platform User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fluigent-flow-rate-platform-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
## Related products
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
References:
(1) Chakrabarty, Sanjiban, William F. Quiros-Solano, Maayke M. P. Kuijten, Ben Haspels, Sandeep Mallya, Calvin Shun Yu Lo, Amr Othman, et al. « A Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform Predicts Drug Response Using Organotypic Tumor Slice Culture ». *Cancer Research* 82, n*o* 3 (1 février 2022): 51020.
(2) Bazban-Shotorbani, Salime, Felicity Gavins, Krishna Kant, Martin Dufva, et Nazila Kamaly. « A Biomicrofluidic Screening Platform for Dysfunctional Endothelium-Targeted Nanoparticles and Therapeutics ». *Advanced NanoBiomed Research* 2, n*o* 1 (2022): 2100092. .
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Sensors
---
### [Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-electrical-impedance-spectroscopy-package/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Content:**
## Features of Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Pack
### Microfluidic Integration
Experience seamless integration with other analysis methods, such as optical detection. Our EIS instruments enable simultaneous multi-frequency measurements, offering enhanced flexibility in your research.
### Complete EIS system
Unlock the full potential of electrical impedance spectroscopy with our comprehensive system. Equipped **with all the essential fluidic components,** our system provides everything you need to initiate EIS experiments promptly and efficiently.
### Engineered for Precision
Our package is meticulously engineered with precision in mind. From pressure controllers to microfluidic chips, each component is thoughtfully designed to ensure optimal performance and reliable results.
### Customization Options
Tailor the EIS Pack to meet your specific requirements. Our customizable solutions empower you to **adapt the package according to your unique needs**, ensuring a perfect fit for your research objectives.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
## How Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Works
### What is the Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy ?
EIS is a well-established method with widespread applications in various scientific and technological fields. In recent years, it has become a cornerstone in **biochemical and medical applications**, proving to be a sensitive technique for **detecting and measuring biochemical and biological events.**
- **Applications:** EIS can be utilized for sensing antigen–antibody complexes formation, immunosensing, DNA characterization, detection of DNA hybridization, and characterizing living cells.
### The combination of the EIS and microfluidics technologies
By combining EIS with [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/webinars/concepts-of-microfluidics/), micromachining, and Microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) techniques, our EIS Pack becomes a valuable tool for biochip applications. This synergy facilitates **easy and rapid characterization of bio-samples**, addressing the need for automated methods in this domain.
- **Label-Free Advantage:** EIS is inherently label-free, simplifying the preliminary sample preparation for analysis.
- **Microfluidic EIS Technique:** This technique involves monitoring the frequency-dependent dielectric properties of the channel as cells pass through it, demanding both **high sensitivity and fast response** for accurate measurements. Experience the power of efficient and label-free bio-sample characterization with the Microfluidic EIS technique.
Elevate your research capabilities with the precision, flexibility, and adaptability offered by our **Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Pack**. Uncover the intricate details of your samples with confidence and ease.
As the analyte enters and exits the differential electrode pairs in a microfluidic chip, peaks and troughs in current are observed. With a differential input, the signal from the surrounding fluid is suppressed, enabling the resolution of each cytometry event with reduced noise. This cutting-edge technology and the scientific advances that accompany it are the reasons why Fluigent created the EIS Pack.
## EIS Applications
Harness the power of continuous flow microfluidic devices, featuring embedded microelectrodes for precise electrical measurements. This cutting-edge technology excels in the **high-throughput detection and classification** of **single cells or particles, including beads and** [**droplets**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)**.**
Further, since the dielectric properties of a biological cell are defined by its cellular characteristics such as cell volume, composition and architecture, impedance spectroscopy can be used to differentiate between cell types.
The integration of [**impedance spectroscopy**](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-fast-electrical-impedance-spectroscopy/), coupled with our advanced Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy pack, allows for the measurement and fitting of the cell’s frequency response to an equivalent circuit model.
This facilitates the extraction of quantitative measurements related to various cell properties, such as membrane thickness and cytoplasm conductivity.
Moreover, our EIS technology enables [**precise droplet analysis**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/), encompassing [droplet size](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/), counting, and cell-in-droplet quantification.
Han, Z. et al (2020) proposed a microfluidic impedance flow cytometry device with a constriction microchannel for simultaneously characterizing the mechanical and electrical characters of plant cells at the single-cell level.
Particularly, by using the EIS system together with impedance analyzers from Zurich Instruments, two characteristic parameters, passage time and impedance opacity, were extracted as biophysical parameters to specify the deformability and membrane electrical property of single plant cells, respectively.
Collectively, within the Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy pack, this study delivers a **high-throughput system** for the **rapid** and **sensitive biophysical characterization** of plant cells at the **single-cell level**. Furthermore, it envisions the development of more robust biosensors for **single-cell phenotyping**, offering a complementary perspective to traditional approaches and providing a comprehensive understanding of gene functions.
## Benefit of the most advanced pressure-based flow control technology
### Control flow rate with the benefits of responsive, pulse free flow
Pulse-free flow is critical for generating high quality and repeatable results. [The Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) integrates the all-new DFC (Direct Flow Control) algorithm which allows the user to set a flow rate directly on the instrument display. The applied pressure will automatically adjust to maintain the flow rate.
### A response time ten times faster compared to mechanical solutions
With the use of pressure instead of mechanical action, the [Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) gets responsiveness ten times [faster than syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/). A low response time allows one to quickly execute operations such as stop flow and pressure/flow rate steps.
## Webinar – Fast Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy for Characterization and Counting
In this [webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-fast-electrical-impedance-spectroscopy/ "webinar"), we present an EIS system consisting of a lock-in amplifier and microfluidic flow controllers and put it to work on detecting microbeads and water-in-oil droplets.
## Specifications
- Package contents
- Software
**LineUp Flow EZ pressure controller (2000 mbar) x2****LineUp LINK Module (software control) x1****FLOW UNIT M (x1) and L (x1)****Kit including all necessary tubing & fittings**
**Additional items required for the Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Pack** (not included in Fluigent package)
**[Fluidic Connect Pro for EIS chips](https://micronit.com/chip-for-electrical-impedance-spectroscopy.html) (15x15mm) or a set of EIS insert when a chip holder is already available.
(8 cable assemblies are included with the holder)** **from Micronit****[HF2LI](https://www.zhinst.com/europe/fr/products/hf2li-lock-in-amplifier) from Zurich Instruments****[HF2TA](https://www.zhinst.com/europe/fr/products/hf2ta-current-amplifier) from Zurich Instruments**
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Success story of SEED Biosciences: Single cell impedance analysis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/success-story-of-seed-biosciences-single-cell-injection-and-impedance-analysis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Micro/Nano Bioelectronics and Biosensors (MBIOS) from Tianjin University Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/success-story-micronano-bioelectronics-biosensors/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Impedance Measurement of Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Flow EZ™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
### Selected publications from our customers
- [Label-Free and Simultaneous Mechanical and Electrical Characterization of Single Plant Cells Using Microfluidic Impedance Flow Cytometry](https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.0c02854)
- [Impedance-based real-time position sensor for lab-on-a-chip devices](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2018/lc/c7lc01344b#!divAbstract)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [完全定制的微流控设备](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
**Published:** January 16, 2020
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 听听我们的客户怎么说
“得益于Fluigent的专业知识，我们能够彻底改变微流控方案的规模，从一个博士生实验发展到任何人都可以使用的完全自动化、并行化的工作流程。Fluigent不仅在这一转变过程中通过他们的创新思维和多学科技能给予我们支持，其客户服务和响应速度也是一流的！”
******匿名客户******
## 从开发到商业化
每个系统都有自身独特的规格。Fluigent提供灵活的定制微流控设备开发服务，以实现您心中所想的系统。我们的核心服务包括提供完整的OEM微流控服务，将您的解决方案推向市场，同时确保高质量标准和满意度。
### 1.业务咨询与系统要求
Fluigent会与所有用户一起讨论微流控产品开发的业务模式和技术规格。
### 2.技术可行性与技术审查
一旦明确了您的需求和技术规格，我们的研发团队将依托最先进的模块和独特的创新技术组合，为您的应用推荐最经济高效的解决方案。
### 3.高效解决方案开发与原型制作
一旦规格和要求确定，研发项目团队将致力于开发您的定制微流控解决方案。在整个开发过程中，我们将不断向您更新关于项目总体进展的最新情况。我们非常重视透明度这一核心价值。我们将把OEM微流控定制系统原型发送给您进行测试和验证。
### 4.工业化与质量管理
验证后，研发部门会将您的原型转交到我们的生产部门。通过ISO 9001证书要求的培训、生产文件、台架测试和其他质量评估，我们交付具有高度可再现性能的标准系统。
### 5.产品上市/支持与服务
我们的合作关系并不会因为您的产品商业化而结束。我们制造并运送定制微流控设备后，Fluigent还将提供一流的团队培训和备件订单支持服务。
## OEM微流控定制系统：Fluigent独特的技术组合
Fluigent 拥有15年以上的经验，作为第一家使用压力驱动微流控中流体的公司，可应对流体稳定性和无菌性挑战。得益于持续的创新过程，我们通过开发尖端技术解决当前的限制，目前已拥有20多项专利。通过将我们的技术集成到您的定制微流控设备中，Fluigent 将增强您的应用性能，并确保您在竞争中占据优势。
### DFC流速控制算法
自学习算法支持实时压力/流速监控和控制
### 微型泵算法
微型泵中的Fluigent算法可实现紧凑的压力供应和控制
### 流体混合器
生物旋涡混合器。轨道运动，质量补偿振动
### 机器人移液
用于微孔板中流体取样的三轴（x/y/z）机器人平台
### 温度管理
用于加热和冷却的温度模块
还有很多…
了解我们的技术
## 定制软件开发
我们为您的定制微流控设备提供基于知名最终用户软件OxyGEN以及SDK库的定制软件。我们开发和设计您的用户界面，并创建专用方案，以最佳方式满足您的应用需求。此外，我们可以在您的微流控产品开发过程中与第三方设备的软件进行交互，以实现跨设备通信，并保证最佳效率和用户友好性。
## OEM客户案例研究
每个客户情况不同，都面临着特定的挑战，我们特别注意解决这些问题。在客户案例研究中，了解我们客户的故事以及我们与之建立的关系。
- 案例1：用于电子显微镜的样品输送机
- 案例2：药物检测机
### 背景
一个领先的电子显微镜研究小组希望在其标准成像平台中添加自动采样系统，作为提供给客户的增值功能。由于我们在工程实际和制造OEM微流控定制系统方面拥有丰富经验，Fluigent接受邀请开发这个补充模块。
### 解决方案
Fluigent在定制微流控和流体处理硬件和软件方面的专业知识，为所有用户实验提供技术支持。
### 结果
该采样系统可在长时间的成像实验中自动输送样品量，同时保持样品处于冷藏状态。不久之后，附加功能也将集成到客户端软件中，这样用户便可以在一个地方充分利用整个平台的功能。
### 背景
这家公司在研究微流控技术后，为寻找一种流体处理解决方案，联系了Fluigent。
### 解决方案
当客户专注于开发其生物学领域专有技术时，Fluigent的团队已经成功完成了从流体系统到仪器设计的开发，创建了围绕芯片所需的组件。
### 结果
这一结果使用户能够同时使用多个微流控设备，而无需大量的预先培训，从而提供精准医疗的体外诊断测试。
---
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [Microfluidic Recirculation Valve](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the recirculation microvalve
### 6-port/2-position
Peripheral ports (numbered from 1 to 6) can alternatively be connected to the right or the left channels. The L-SWITCH™ is actuated by a motor that drives a rotor – where the fluidic path is engraved – against a stator – containing the fluidic paths.
### Fluid recirculation
The L-SWITCH™ is a microfluidic recirculation valve that can be used as a cell culture tool : a small volume of buffer can be recirculated within a closed loop into the chip for several hours or days. Combined with our MFCS™ series or LineUp™ series it can achieve a highly stable flow with a positive impact on the shear stress.
### Workflow automation
The recirculation microvalve can be controlled by OxyGEN software or long-term experiments. Create a time-based protocol to set the actuation timing of the valve(s).
Control software allows back and forth flow between the two vials while maintaining a continuous unidirectional flow-rate within the cell culture chamber.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## Smart control and automation of your fluidic path
Discover Fluigent microfluidic valves, a set of compact instruments allowing to complexify and easily handle the fluidic path of your system. Once integrated in the set-up, the valves can be controlled in real-time and even without the requirement of a PC.
## How to perform fluid recirculation with microfluidic valve
Many microfluidic applications require expensive solutions to be recirculated at a controlled flow rate into a microfluidic system, such as cell cultures, cell injections, or simulation of blood capillaries with a controlled minimal mechanical stress.
The L-SWITCH, combined with Fluigent’s [**pressure-based flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/), allows to recirculate a fluid in a closed loop, to run and automate long-term experiments, and to increase experimental versatility thanks to its high biological and chemical compatibility.
The 6 inputs and 2 interchangeable configurations of the microfluidic recirculation valve are represented in the images below. According to the configuration, each input is connected to an output that is either on the right or left of its neighbor.
We have demonstrated the ability to maintain a stable flow rate, without changing the yield stress, in a medium over cells during a long-term recirculation experiment using our L-SWITCH™. Check out our [**Technical Note** ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/4-22-fluid-recirculation-for-cell-perfusion.pdf)to learn more!
[Technical Note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/4-22-fluid-recirculation-for-cell-perfusion.pdf)
*Figure 1 Diagram of the two fluidic paths during a long term experiment The fluid always goes in the same direction within the chip*
## Benefits of the L-SWITCH recirculation valve
- No overpressure: Switch between 2 flow configurations in less than 100ms
- No waste: No dead volume and low carryover volume.
- Biocompatible: High chemical and biological compatibility
- Reproducibility and Reliability: Perform identical recirculations over and over
- Small buffer volume
- Controlled shear stress
- Long-term experiments
- Flexible automation
- Pressure and/or flow-rate control and limit
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**PERFORMANCE**
**Switching time**100 ms**Maximum pressure**Up to 7 bar (100 psi)
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Internal volume**660 nL**Internal diameter**0.3 mm**Dead volume**None**Wetted materials**PEEK**Fittings**Flangeless (1/16’’ OD)
**WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS**
****Dimensions****70 x 90 x 150 mm****Weight****475 g
**ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power Supply Voltage**24 VDC**Port communication**RJ45
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
Fluid recirculation
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos MICROFLUIDIC VALVE AUTOMATION: How to make it easy \[SWITCH EZ\] – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valve-automation-how-to-make-it-easy-switch-ez-fluigent/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets L-SWITCH™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/l-switch-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Easy Switch Solutions User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/easy-switch-solutions-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### L-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/l-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Valves
---
### [Microfluidic Injection Valve](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/)
**Published:** January 16, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the bidirectional switch
### 6-port/2-position
Peripheral ports (numbered from 1 to 6) can alternatively be connected to the right or the left channels. The L-SWITCH™ is actuated by a motor that drives a rotor – where the fluidic path is engraved – against a stator – containing the fluidic paths.
### Sample injection
The L-SWITCH™ microfluidic injection valve enables one to load and inject a precise volume of fluid. By selecting the position of the L-SWITCH™ you will choose when you want to load the fluid and then inject it (using a sample loop). Several sample loops are available from 20 µL to 200 µL.
### Workflow automation
The valve can be controlled by OxyGEN software for long-term experiments. Create a time-based protocol to set the actuation timing of the valve(s).
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Smart control and automation of your fluidic path
Discover Fluigent microfluidic valves, a set of compact instruments allowing to complexify and easily handle the fluidic path of your system. Once integrated in the set-up, the valves can be controlled in real-time and even without the requirement of a PC.
## How to perform sample injection with the L-SWITCH bidirectional switch
The L-SWITCH is a 6-port / 2-position microfluidic injection valve that, combined with [**Fluigent’s pressure controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/), allows us to inject a small volume of sample into a liquid stream, reducing cost, as well as to run and automate long-term experiments with high reproducibility and reliability.
The microfluidic injection valve has 6 inputs and two interchangeable configurations shown on the images below. Each input is connected to a neighbor output, either on the right or the left depending on the configuration.
**Example of use**
By combining the bidirectional switch with our [**cell encapsulation platform**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/), it is possible to work with samples with a reduced volume (e.g. working with cells of limited availability, such as stem cells, primary cells from patients…). It is also ideal for the use of rare cells or expensive reagents with a total volume lower than 500µl/.
*Figure 1 Cell encapsulation platform with an injection loop L Switch position A**Figure 2 Cell encapsulation platform with an injection loop L Switch position B*
## Benefits of the L-SWITCH injection valve
- No overpressure: Switch between 2 flow configurations in less than 100ms
- No waste: No dead volume and low carryover volume.
- Biocompatible: High chemical and biological compatibility
- Reproducibility and Reliability: Perform identical injections
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**PERFORMANCE**
**Switching time**100 ms**Maximum pressure**Up to 7 bar (100 psi)
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Internal volume**660 nL**Internal diameter**0.3 mm**Dead volume**None**Wetted materials**PEEK**Fittings**Flangeless (1/16’’ OD)
**WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS**
****Dimensions****70 x 90 x 150 mm****Weight****475 g
**ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power Supply Voltage**24 VDC**Port communication**RJ45
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
Fluid recirculation
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos MICROFLUIDIC VALVE AUTOMATION: How to make it easy \[SWITCH EZ\] – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valve-automation-how-to-make-it-easy-switch-ez-fluigent/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets L-SWITCH™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/l-switch-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Easy Switch Solutions User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/easy-switch-solutions-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### L-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/l-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Valves
---
### [Individuell angefertigtes Mikrofluidikgerät ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
**Published:** January 16, 2020
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Was unsere Kunden sagen
“Das Fachwissen von Fluigent hat es uns ermöglicht, den unserere mikrofluidischen Protokolle komplett zu ändern, vom Experiment eines Doktoranten bis hin zu einem vollautomatischen und parallelisierten Arbeitsablauf, der für jedermann verfügbar ist.”
************Anonymer Kunde************
## Von der Entwicklung bis zur Vermarktung
Fluigent bietet eine flexible, kundenspezifische Entwicklung von mikrofluidischen Geräten, um das System zu liefern, das Sie sich vorstellen. Unser Kernangebot umfasst komplette **OEM-Mikrofluidik-Dienstleistungen**, um Ihre Lösung auf den Markt zu bringen und gleichzeitig hohe Qualitätsstandards und Zufriedenheit zu gewährleisten.
### 1. Geschäftsberatung & Systemanforderungen Fluigent bespricht alle Anwendungen
Fluigent bespricht alle Anwendungen, Geschäftsmodelle und technischen Spezifikationen für Ihre mikrofluidische Produktentwicklung.
### 2. Technische Machbarkeit & Technologieüberprüfung
Nachdem wir Ihre Bedürfnisse und technischen Spezifikationen ermittelt haben, schlägt unser F&E-Team die kosteneffizienteste Lösung vor, die auf unseren hochmodernen Modulen und unserem einzigartigen Portfolio innovativer Technologien basiert, um Ihre Anwendung zu unterstützen.
### 3. Effiziente Lösungsentwicklung & Prototyping
Sobald die Spezifikationen und Anforderungen festgelegt sind, widmet sich ein F&E-Projektteam der Entwicklung Ihrer kundenspezifischen Mikrofluidiklösung. Während der gesamten Entwicklung werden wir Sie **kontinuierlich über den Gesamtfortschritt des Projekts informieren**. Transparenz ist ein zentraler Wert für uns. Der Prototyp des kundenspezifischen OEM-Mikrofluidiksystems wird Ihnen zur Prüfung und Validierung zugesandt.
### 4. Industrialisierung und Qualitätsmanagement
Nach der Validierung übergibt unsere Forschungs- und Entwicklungsabteilung Ihren Prototyp an unsere Produktionsabteilung. Durch Schulungen, Produktionsdateien, Tests auf dem Prüfstand und andere Qualitätsprüfungen auf der Grundlage unseres ISO 9001-Zertifikats liefern wir ein Standardsystem mit hochgradig reproduzierbarer Leistung.
### 5. Aftersales Support
Unsere Partnerschaft endet nicht, sobald Ihr Produkt auf dem Markt ist. Nachdem wir Ihr kundenspezifisches mikrofluidisches Gerät gebaut und ausgeliefert haben, bietet Fluigent erstklassigen Support, einschließlich Teamtraining und Ersatzteilbestellung.
## Kundenspezifische OEM-Mikrofluidik-Systeme: Das einzigartige Technologieportfolio von Fluigent
Mit mehr als 15 Jahren Erfahrung war Fluigent das **erste Unternehmen, das Druck** zur Bewegung von Flüssigkeiten in der Mikrofluidik **einsetzte**, um den Herausforderungen der Flüssigkeitsstabilität und Sterilität zu begegnen. Mit mehr als 20 Patenten und der kontinuierlichen Innovation und Entwicklung sind wir Vorreiter auf unserem Gebiet. Durch die Integration unserer Technologien in Ihr kundenspezifisches Mikrofluidikgerät wird Fluigent Ihre Anwendung stärken und Ihnen einen entscheidenden Vorteil gegenüber Ihrer Konkurrenz bieten.
### DFC Algorithmus zur Durchflussregelung
Selbstlernender Algorithmus, der eine Live-Überwachung und -Regelung von Druck und Durchfluss ermöglicht
### Algorithmus für Mikropumpen
Fluigent-Algorithmus in Mikropumpen für kompakte Druckversorgung und -regelung
### Flüssigkeitsmischer
Biologischer Wirbelmischer.Orbitalbewegung, massenkompensierte Vibration.
### Robotische Pipettierung
x-y-z-Roboterbühne für die Entnahme von Flüssigkeiten in Mikrovertiefungen
### Temperatur-Management
Temperaturmodule für Heizung und Kühlung
Und vieles mehr…
Entdecken Sie unsere Technologien
## Entwicklung kundenspezifischer Software
Wir bieten kundenspezifische Software an, die auf unserer Endbenutzer-Software OxyGEN sowie auf unserer SDK-Bibliothek für Ihr kundenspezifisches Mikrofluidikgerät basiert. Wir entwickeln und gestalten Ihre Benutzeroberfläche und erstellen spezielle Protokolle, passend zu Ihrer Anwendung. Darüber hinaus können wir während der Entwicklung Ihres mikrofluidischen Produkts eine Anbindung an die Software von Drittanbietern vornehmen, um die wechselseitige Kommunikation zu ermöglichen und die bestmögliche Effizienz und Benutzerfreundlichkeit zu gewährleisten.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/sdk/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/09/test5.gif)
## Fallstudien von OEM-Kunden
Jeder Kunde ist anders und hat spezifische Herausforderungen, die wir mit besonderer Sorgfalt angehen. In unseren Kundenfallstudien finden Sie die mehr dazu.
- Fall 1: Probenzuführungsmaschine für ein Elektronenmikroskop
- Fall 2: Medikamentenprüfgerät
### Kontext
Ein führendes Elektronenmikroskopie-Unternehmen wollte seine Standard-Imaging-Plattformen um ein automatisches Probenentnahmesystem erweitern, um seinen Kunden einen Mehrwert zu bieten. Fluigent wurde mit der Entwicklung dieses ergänzenden Moduls beauftragt, da wir über große Erfahrung in der Entwicklung und Herstellung von kundenspezifischen OEM-Mikrofluidiksystemen verfügen.
### Lösung
Das Fachwissen von Fluigent im Bereich kundenspezifischer Mikrofluidik und Fluid-Handling-Hardware und -Software bietet technische Unterstützung für alle Benutzerexperimente.
### Ergebnis
Das Probenentnahmesystem automatisiert die Abgabe des Probenvolumens bei langwierigen Bildgebungsexperimenten und hält die Proben gekühlt. In Kürze werden auch zusätzliche Funktionen in die Software des Kunden integriert, so dass Benutzer die gesamte Plattform an einem Ort nutzen kann.
### Kontext
Dieses Unternehmen wandte sich an Fluigent, um eine Lösung für die Handhabung von Flüssigkeiten zu finden, nachdem es die Mikrofluidik-Technologie untersucht hatte.
### Lösung
Während sich der Kunde auf die Entwicklung seiner firmeneigenen Technologie in der Biologie konzentrierte, gelang es dem Team von Fluigent, die benötigten Komponenten rund um die Chips zu entwickeln, vom Fluidiksystem bis hin zum Design des Instruments.
### Ergebnis
Das Ergebnis ermöglicht es den Nutzern, mehrere mikrofluidische Geräte gleichzeitig und mit einem Minimum an Schulung zu verwenden und so einen in-vitro-diagnostischen Test der Präzisionsmedizin durchzuführen.
---
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [OEM Mikrofluidik Komponenten ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/industrie/industrie-produkte/oem-mikrofluidik-komponenten/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent M-X**
\[IVMSW1\]
## Mikrofluidisches Multi-Port-Drehventil für die Industrie
- **Kompakt:** Lässt sich leicht in Systeme und Maschinen einbauen
- **Schnell:** Betätigung und Reaktionszeit
- **Präzise:** Geringes internes Volumen
- **Automatisierung:** Vollständig automatisiert mit hauseigener Software oder SDK-Bibliotheken
Das OEM Fluigent MX ist ein bidirektionales elektrisches 11-Wege / 10-Wege-Drehventil für die Injektion oder Auswahl von bis zu 10 verschiedenen Fluiden. Der Durchfluss erfolgt bidirektional in der Schleuse. Das Gerät kann als Selektor oder als Verteiler für Multiplexing- oder Demultiplexing-Zwecke verwendet werden.
[Fordern Sie ein Angebot an](https://www.fluigent.com/de/contact-us/)
[Technische Spezifikation MX ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-mx-ventil-de.pdf)
**Fluigent L-X**
\[IVLSW1\]
## Mikrofluidisches Ventil für Probeninjektion und -rezirkulation für die Industrie
- **Kompakt:** Entwickelt für die Systemintegration
- **Schnell:** Betätigungs- und Reaktionszeit
- **Präzise:** Geringes internes Volumen
- **Automatisierung:** Vollständig automatisiert mit hauseigener Software oder SDK-Bibliotheken
Das L-X OEM-Ventil mit 6 Anschlüssen und 2 Positionen ist ein bidirektionales Mikrofluidikventil, das für die präzise Probeninjektion oder Flüssigkeitsrückführung in Zellkulturanwendungen entwickelt wurde.
[Fordern Sie ein Angebot an](https://www.fluigent.com/de/contact-us/)
[Technische Spezifikation LX ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-lx-ventil-de.pdf)
**Fluigent 2-X**
IV2SWBK1
## 3-Wege-/2-Wege-Ventil für die Industrie
- **Kompakt:** Entwickelt für die Systemintegration
- **Schnell:** Betätigungs- und Reaktionszeit
- **Präzise:** Geringes internes Volumen
- **Automatisierung:** Vollständig automatisiert mit hauseigener Software oder SDK-Bibliotheken
Das 2-X ist ein kompaktes 3-Anschluss/2-Wege-Mikrofluidikventil. Mit Standardanschlüssen kann es in jedes Fluidiksystem integriert werden.
[Fordern Sie ein Angebot an](https://www.fluigent.com/de/contact-us/)
[Technische Spezifikation 2X ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-2x-ventil-de.pdf)
**FS-Baureihe**
\[IFSXX\]
## Mikrofluidischer OEM-Durchflusssensor
- **Kurze Reaktionszeiten:** Druckbasierte direkte Durchflussregelung
- **Hohe Stabilität:** Hohe Zuverlässigkeit und Langzeitstabilität
- **Zuverlässig:** Industrieerprobte Technologie
- **Intuitiv:** Einfach zu bedienende Systeme
Unsere mikrofluidischen OEM-Durchflusssensoren der FS-Serie sind für die **Durchflusskontrolle** und –**überwachung** bestimmt. In Kombination mit Fluigent-Druckreglern ermöglicht sie eine druckbasierte Durchflusskontrolle. Sie ermöglicht präzise und genaue Messungen von dynamischen Flüssigkeitsdurchflussraten von 0 – 1,5 µL/min und bis zu 40 mL/min bidirektional.
[Fragen Sie nach einem Preisangebot ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/contact-us/)
[Technische Spezifikation FS-Serie ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-fs-series-de.pdf)
**Fluigent RX**
\[ISRX21\]
## OEM Mikrofluidische Druckquelle
- **Kompakt:** Geeignet für den Einsatz in Industrie und Forschung
- **Einfach zu bedienen:** Standard-Anschlüsse
- **Anpassungsfähig:** Verwendung mit oder ohne PC
Die **mikrofluidische Druckquelle RX OEM** ist so konzipiert, dass sie reibungslos in industrielle Systeme integriert oder als eigenständige Druckquelle zur **Versorgung** von mikrofluidischen Druckreglern verwendet werden kann. Optimal für den Einsatz im Labor und auf dem Labortisch.
In einem robusten Stahlgehäuse untergebracht, liefert es getrocknete und gefilterte Luft mit bis zu 2500 mbar für ein oder mehrere Druckkontrollmodule wie die PX-Serie oder andere Instrumente, die Druckluft zum Betrieb benötigen.
[Fragen Sie nach einem Preisangebot ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/contact-us/)
[Technische Spezifikation RX ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-rx-de.pdf)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [Druckregler für Flüssigkeiten ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/industrie/industrie-produkte/druckregler-fuer-fluessigkeiten/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent PX**
\[ICPXXX\]
## Mikrofluidischer OEM-Druckregler
- **Hohe Präzision :** Hochwertige Druckregelung
- **Kompakte Bauweise :** Entwickelt für die industrielle Integration
- **Kostengünstig :** Unerreichtes Preis-Leistungs-Verhältnis
Die patentierte, praxiserprobte Fastab™-Technologie von FLUIGENT PX ermöglicht schnelle Einschwingzeiten und hervorragende Stabilität.
Unser **mikrofluidischer OEM-Druckcontroller** verfügt über eine duale Schnittstelle USB und RS232 für hohe Flexibilität bei der Integration. Das mitgelieferte Softwarepaket ist für Windows- und Linux-Plattformen geeignet.
[Fragen Sie nach einem Angebot ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/contact-us/)
[Technische Spezifikation PX ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-px-de.pdf)
**F-OEM**
## Modularer OEM-Mikrofluidik-Druckregler
- **Beste Leistung:** Ausgezeichnete Reaktionszeit, pulslos und hochstabil
- **Flexibel:** Konfigurierbar mit Druck- und Schaltsteuerungsmodulen
- **Kompakt:** Eigenständige Plattform, angepasst an industrielle Anwendungen
- **Kontaminationsfrei:** Nicht in Kontakt mit Flüssigkeit
- **Kostengünstig**: Reduzierter Reagenzienverbrauch
Unser **mikrofluidischer Druckregler F-OEM** bietet die **höchste Leistung**, Effizienz und den **größten Druck- und Durchflussbereich** für anspruchsvolle **industriellen Anwendungen**, einschließlich mikrofluidischer und nanofluidischer Anwendungen (Mikrokanäle, Nanokanäle, Kapillaren, Lab on a Chip…). Es handelt sich um eine **eigenständige, modulare Plattform**, die komplexe fluidische Operationen durchführen kann. Entdecken Sie unseren neuesten industriellen Druckregler.
[Fragen Sie nach einem Angebot ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/contact-us/)
[Technische Spezifikation FOEM ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-foem-de.pdf)
**P-OEM**
\[XXX-POEM\]
## Mikrofluidische Druckregler-Einheit
- **Genaue:** Hochpräzise Druckkontrolle
- **Kompakt:** Angepasst an industrielle Anwendungen
- **Kostengünstig:** Reduzierter Reagenzienverbrauch
- **Vielseitig:** Hochgradig anpassbar durch zahlreiche Optionen
Die P-OEM Serie basiert auf der Durchflussregelungstechnologie von Fluigent und bietet im Vergleich zu herkömmlichen Spritzenpumpen oder Peristaltikpumpen eine hervorragende Reaktionszeit und hochstabile Flussratenkontrolle für industrielle Präzisions-Mikrofluidik-Anwendungen.
[Fragen Sie nach einem Angebot ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/contact-us/)
[Technische Spezifikation POEM ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-poem-de.pdf)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the microfluidic valve control system
### Standalone configuration
The SWITCH EZ can be used without a computer to control Fluigent’s microfluidic valves. Connect the valves to the dedicated ports and use the local control to actuate them.
### Local control
Control pressure or flow rate without a PC using the LineUp™ hardware interface. This allows users to quickly actuate connected valves and even order simultaneous requests.
### Software and flow control
Combine this microfluidic valve control system with any LineUp™ controller and a LINK to benefit from OxyGEN software. Control in real-time and automate valve actuation timing.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
## How to easily actuate or automate microfluidic valves
Fluigent offers a wide range of [**microfluidic valves**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) that are precisely and accurately matched to the experiment being performed. This gives users the possibility to use multiple valves for **automatic liquid injection**, work with very short switching time, and create a low internal volume with high chemical compatibility.
Our microfluidic valve controller allows users to **control fluid sequences** during an experiment, enabling automation of the process. The controller also has the ability to easily recreate processes that fit your specific needs, creating a complete valve automation.
The module has 6 ports and can be combined with other LineUp™ products to have a complete and compact system for benchtop use. Connected valves can be controlled or programmed by using the local control directly on the device or by creating a protocol in real-time to **automate valve actuation timing**.
The LineUp™ SWITCH EZ microfluidic valve controller can be used for:
- [Perfusion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-perfusion-with-pulse-free-flow-with-one-manifold): the rotational valve enables the sequential injection of up to 10 different liquids.
- [Injections of a defined volume](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/) metered through a loop.
- [Recirculation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/): using two t-connectors and two 2-switches, it is possible to flow alternatively from reservoir A to B and B to A by circulating through the chip in the same direction. This is useful for long cell culture experiments.
## Part of our LineUp Series
Pressure and vacuum control, flow rate control, microfluidic valve automation, and software control. Select and combine the modules you need from our range of LineUp™ products. Our devices have become the gold standard for microfluidic flow control over the years.
## Focus on the microscope. No PC is required
Instead of looking at the PC, users can keep their eyes on the microscope and adjust the control dial with one hand. In this stand-alone configuration, the microfluidic valve controller allows for pressure or flow rate control and volume dispense, making it ideal for benchtop use.
## How does a microfluidic valve work?
A microfluidic valve is a device designed to control and manipulate the flow of fluids on a microscale level. It is an essential component in microfluidic systems.
Microfluidic valves enable the precise control of fluid flow by selectively opening or closing channels within the microfluidic device and redirecting flow. They can regulate the movement of fluids or direct fluids into specific pathways. The Fluigent’s valves are actuated by a motor that drives a rotor – where the fluidic path is engraved – against a stator – hosting the fluidic ports, allowing for the flow redirection, and can be managed by the microfluidic valve control system.
By controlling the flow, microfluidic valves allow researchers and engineers to perform various analytical and biological processes, such as chemical reactions, cell studies, DNA analysis, and diagnostic assays.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**COMPATIBILITY**
**Maximum number of **supported** valves**Up to six 2-SWITCHUp to three M-SWITCH or L-SWITCH
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions**91,9 x 71,8 x 131 mm**Weight**317 g (0.7 lbs)
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power consumption**6 W**Electrical consumption**2A (peak)
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos MICROFLUIDIC VALVE AUTOMATION: How to make it easy \[SWITCH EZ\] – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valve-automation-how-to-make-it-easy-switch-ez-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos Microfluidic Valves : SMART CONTROL and AUTOMATION of your fluidic path – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valves-smart-control-and-automation-of-your-fluidic-path-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual SWITCH EZ User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/switch-ez-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets SWITCH EZ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/switch-ez-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### LineUp supply kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-supply-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** LineUp series, Microfluidic Valves
---
### [Microfluidic Push Pull controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What is a Push Pull Controller?
The Push Pull is a pressure and vacuum controller that can alternate between **positive pressure (Push)** and **negative pressure (Pull)** through the **same port** to precisely control fluid flow in microfluidic systems. By applying positive pressure, fluids can be pushed through channels and microdevices, while negative pressure enables pulling fluids back.
The microfluidic Push Pull controller allows for the **dynamic and reversible control of pressure,** enabling **various applications** such as fluidic mixing, particle trapping, cell manipulation, and droplet generation. By rapidly switching between positive and negative pressures, the Push Pull mode offers enhanced flexibility and control over fluid flow and manipulation processes.
Fluigent’s 2 in 1 negative and positive pressure controller **empowers researchers** and **scientists** to perform complex and dynamic fluidic operations in microfluidic systems, **creating possibilities** for **advanced experimentation** and **innovation** in a wide range of scientific disciplines.
## Push-Pull Features
### Expand as needed
Combine up to 8 modules as your workflow grows. Each module is a separate and independent pressure channel.
### Wide range
Our microfluidic Push Pull Controller allows for the regulation of positive pressure up to 1 bar and vacuum pressure down to -800 mbar from one single channel.
### Local control
Control without a PC using the Push Pull hardware interface with one hand. Focus on the experiment instead of looking at the PC.
### Precise volume delivery
When our pressure/vacuum controller is combined with a flow sensor FLOW UNIT one can control the flow rate directly or deliver dispensed volumes as needed.
### Various reservoir sizes
Support reservoir sizes from 2 mL to one-liter laboratory bottles. The microfluidic Push Pull Controller can maintain continuous, pulseless flow for days without refilling.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## How does our Push Pull controller work?
Based on our industry leading experience, Fluigent has developed the **patented pneumatic system**, the most advanced **microfluidic pumping technology** available. It is the heart of the Fluigent’s next-generation performance, providing the **fastest**, **most stable** and **compact system** for microfluidics available.
In the base configuration, the Push Pull controls pressure or vacuum rate, and the liquid flows as a function of system resistance, fluid viscosity, etc. The addition of a [**FLOW UNIT**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) enables one to **control or monitor flow rate** as well as measure a **dispensed volume**. The pressure automatically adjusts in the background to maintain the set flow rate.
When combined with the [**LINK** module](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/ "OxyGEN software"), the **Push Pull** capabilities are extended by using Fluigent software to control the system, or to generate time based protocols and record **data** ([OxyGEN software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/ "OxyGEN software")).
The 2 in 1 negative and positive pressure-based controllers are available in different pressure and vacuum ranges to provide the optimum level of pressure control and resolution. These can easily be combined to **match all application requirements** or reconfigure the system for a new experimental design.
## Enhanced flexibility and control over fluid manipulation
With a compact and modular design, the microfluidic Push Pull controller allows users to set and benefit quickly from the pressure-based flow control advantages for experiments.
## Part of our LineUp Series
Pressure and vacuum control, flow rate control, microfluidic valve automation, and software control. Select and combine the modules you need from our range of LineUp™ products. Our devices have become the gold standard for microfluidic flow control over the years.
“The device is well designed and allows for easy control of my microfluidic chips. What I like most is that you are independent of a computer and can directly control both positive and negative pressure.”
****Christoph Trenzinger – Stratec****
## Flow rate control with the benefits of responsive, pulse-free flow
With the use of pressure instead of mechanical action, the Flow EZTM microfluidic flow controller reports a responsiveness **[ten times faster than syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/ "ten times faster than syringe pumps")**. A low response time allows users to quickly execute operations such as stopping flow and implementing pressure/flow rate steps.
“The Fluigent LineUp series, including the new push-pull pump, enables precise and highly controlled aspiration and respiration of liquids. The set-up allows us to further advance our research in both continuous flow and droplet microfluidics.”
**Prof. Jeroen Lammertyn, KU Leuven Belgium – Biosensors group.**
Pulse-free flow is critical for generating high quality and repeatable results. Fluigent’s vacuum and positive pressure-based controller integrates the all-new [**DFC (Direct Flow Control)algorithm.**](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/) This allows the user to **set a flow rate directly on the instrument display.** The applied pressure will automatically adjust to [**maintain the flow rate**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/).
## Focus on the microscope. No PC is required
Instead of looking at the PC, users can keep their eyes on the microscope by adjusting the control dial with one hand. In this stand-alone configuration, the vacuum/pressure controller allows for pressure or flow rate control and volume dispense, making it ideal for benchtop use.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**PRESSURE AND VACUUM RANGE**
**Maximum pressure**Up to 1000 mbar (14,50 psi)**Maximum vacuum**Down to -800 mbar (-11,6 psi)**Required pressure supply**1100 mbar (16 psi)**Required vacuum supply**-800 mbar (-11,6 psi)**Maximum pressure supply**1400 mbar (20,3 psi)
**PERFORMANCE**
**Resolution**600 µbar**Stability**0,1% on the measured value (effective beyond 10% of the maximum pressure)**Response time**Down to 30 ms**Accuracy**4,5 mbar**Repeatability**180 µbar
**STANDARD OPERATING CONDITIONS**
**Operating temperature**20°C (68°F)**Operating humidity**40% HR
**WEIGHT & DIMENSIONS**
**Dimensions**91,9 x 71,8 x 131 mm (3.6 x 2.8 x 5.15 in)**Weight**636 g (1.4 lbs)
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power consumption**6 W
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 8: Switch it off – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-8-switch-it-off-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 7: Use the P=0 button – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-7-use-the-p0-button-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 6: Add my FLOW UNIT – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-6-add-my-flow-unit-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 5: Disconnect a Flow EZ – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-5-disconnect-a-flow-ez-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 4 : Apply a pressure order – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-4-apply-a-pressure-order-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 3 : Add a Flow EZ – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-3-add-a-flow-ez-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorial Episode 2 : Insert in my setup – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorial-episode-2-insert-in-my-setup-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos Flow EZ Tutorial Episode 1 : Getting started – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorial-episode-1-getting-started-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Push-Pull Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/push-pull-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual LineUp™ series User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/lineup-series-user-manual/)
## Related products
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Pneumatic Valve Controller
P-SWITCH
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/p-switch/)
- [
### Compact Vacuum Pump
VACUUM SOURCE
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### LineUp supply kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-supply-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Pressure Based Flow Controller, LineUp series
---
### [M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the M-Switch microfluidic dual flow control valve
Any of the peripheral ports (numbered from 1 to 10) can be connected to the central channel, and the fluidic path created is bidirectional. The M-SWITCH™ is actuated by a motor that drives a rotor. It can also be used with a manifold to use a single pressure pump to deliver multiple liquids and simplify setups.
### Generating and collecting samples
Different concentrations of the molecule of interest can be injected into a chip generating water-in-oil droplets. The droplets can then be sorted at the outlet of the chip using the M-SWITCH™ microfluidic bidirectional valve according to their analyte concentrations. Each step can be automated using OxyGEN software.
### How does the 11-port/10-position system work?
Any of the peripheral ports (numbered from 1 to 10) can be connected to the central channel, and the fluidic path created is bidirectional. The M-SWITCH™ is actuated by a motor that drives a rotor. It can also be used with a manifold to use a single pressure pump to deliver multiple liquids and simplify setups.
### The M-Switch, an automated microfluidic valve
The microfluidic bidirectional valve can be controlled by OxyGEN software for long-term experiments. Create a time-based protocol to set actuation timing.
- [
### OxyGEN
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
### Smart control and automation of your fluidic path
Discover Fluigent microfluidic valves, a set of compact instruments that lets you complexify and easily handle the fluidic path of your system. Once integrated into the setup, the valves can be controlled in real time, even without a PC.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
## Smart control and automation of your fluidic path
Discover Fluigent microfluidic valves-: a set of compact instruments allowing users to complexify and easily handle the fluidic path of their system. Once integrated in the set-up, the valves can be controlled in real-time and even without the requirement of a PC.
## What are the benefits of this microfluidic switching valve?
- **Fast switching time:** 400ms, making it compatible with our [ultra-fast flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- **Ultra-low internal volume:** 3.5µL
- **Versatility and ease of use**
- **Multiplexing:** up to 10 different fluids
## Example uses of the M-Switch
### Automatic switching between multiple solutions while maintaining a constant flow rate
Many [microfluidic applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/) require switching between multiple solutions (such as samples or buffers) while maintaining a constant flow rate during the associated experiment. In this application, one [Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) pressure channel is connected via a manifold to ten separate vials containing different aqueous solutions. Using the M-Switch™ and Oxygen software allows for selection of a specific solution to be directed to a microfluidic device. This represents an economical way to change between fluids, as it requires only a single pressure channel and one flow sensor.
The microfluidic switching valve is first set to position 1, and a constant flow rate of 10µL/min is applied. A [flow unit M](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) coupled with a [flowboard](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flowboard/) allows real-time monitoring of the flow rate for constant adjustment of the pressure. Then the M-switch position is changed to the next sequential position at several time points, and the measured flow-rate is recorded.
The data for each switching interval was analyzed to determine the settling time for each change of position. Although it is possible to visually identify the switching step when reading the raw Oxygen data, in all cases normal flow was re-established within 100 ms or less. It is important to note that the flow rate is always positive during the switching steps, eliminating the possibility of cross-contamination between the various solutions.
For more information, read our [application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/sequential-fluid-injection-2018-1.pdf) on this use of the microfluidic bidirectional valve.
“We have been using Fluigent’s M-SWITCH, amongst other accessories, including Flow EZ system flow controllers, for the past 5 years. We are pleased with its performance, especially the programmability and automation of fluid flow that relieves the user of the need to be present next to experiments that run for several hours. We found the software interface simple to use and could count on the team’s assistance for friendly recommendations and support.”
******Sivashankar Krishnamoorthy ****–********** ******Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST)******
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**PERFORMANCE**
**Switching time**400 ms (180°)**Maximum pressure**Up to 7 bar (102 psi)
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Internal diameter**0.5 mm**Internal volume**3.5 µL**Dead volume**None**Carryover volume**1.7 µL**Tube port fittings**Standard 1/4 – 28 UNF, flat-bottom**Wetted materials**PCTFE, UHMW-PE
**WEIGHT AND DIMENSIONS**
****Dimensions****60 x 110 x 110 mm (2.36 x 4.33 x 4.33 in)**Weight**746 g (1.64 lbs)
**OPERATING CONDITIONS**
**Operating temperature**15-40°C (59-104°F)**Operating humidity**20-80%, non condensing
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power consumption**2 A (peak)**Port communication**RJ45
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
Sample generation collection
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos Microfluidic Valves : SMART CONTROL and AUTOMATION of your fluidic path – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valves-smart-control-and-automation-of-your-fluidic-path-fluigent/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets M-SWITCH™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/m-switch-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Easy Switch Solutions User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/easy-switch-solutions-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CEA/CNRS: A flow cell for nanoscopic imaging in liquid Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cea-cnrs-a-flow-cell-dedicated-to-imaging-in-liquid-at-the-nanoscale/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### M-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/m-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Valves
---
### [Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Focus on the microscope. No PC is required
Instead of looking at the PC, users can keep their eyes on the microscope, adjusting the control dial with one hand. In this stand-alone configuration, the device allows for pressure or flow rate control and volume dispense making it ideal for benchtop use.
## Features of the pressure regulator
### From higher to lower pressure
The Adapt module is always placed with the higher-pressure modules to its left and the lower-pressure modules to its right.
### Compact size
The pressure reducer is a compact module that fits perfectly into your pressure-based controller line. The space needed to integrate it is minimal.
### Compatibility
The Adapt module can be combined with flow controllers of any pressure range (7 bar, 2 bar, 25 mbar…)
## Why use a pressure reducer?
In the field of [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/), achieving stable flow rates is crucial for obtaining reproducible and reliable results. To facilitate this, Fluigent provides pressure-based flow controllers like the [LineUp Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) and [LineUp™ Push-Pull](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/), which provide the necessary control with a very short response time. These pressure controllers can be combined to create a complete set-up, with each controller providing different pressure ranges tailored to different aspects of microfluidic experimentation.
To streamline the process of using multiple LineUp Flow EZ or Push-Pull controllers, and to minimize the need for multiple pressure sources, the Adapt module can be used to create a unified LineUp system. This pressure regulator allows the pressure at the outlet of a Flow EZ to be adjusted before the next Flow EZ is supplied, making it an ideal solution for achieving seamless pressure and flow controls in microfluidics experiments.
*Figure 1 Using an Adapt module in a LineUp system*
*Figure 2 Picture of the setup using Flow EZ 1000 345 and 69mbar and the pressure regulator module*
## Setting up a LineUp system with the Adapt module
The pressure reducer can be used with multiple pressure-based flow controllers if they are to be combined and do not cover the same pressure ranges.
To connect an Adapt module, the procedure is the same as for [connecting two Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-3-add-a-flow-ez-fluigent/): simply place the two modules in series and plug them together using the plug & play feature. One important thing to know is that the LineUp modules must be arranged from left to right with decreasing pressure supply requirements.
The “[Chain to Chain Kit](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-chain-2-chain-kit/)” can be used if your setup requires more flexibility on the lab bench.
## Part of our LineUp Series
Pressure and vacuum control, flow rate control, microfluidic valve automation, and software control. Select and combine the modules you need from our range of LineUp™ products. Our devices have become the gold standard for microfluidic flow control over the years.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
Each LineUp™ Flow EZ or Push-Pull requires a specific amount of supplied pressure. To build a single LineUp™ system with multiple pressure ranges, use the Adapt to reduce the pressure supply and meet your exact requirements.
**INPUT PRESSURE REQUIREMENT**
**150 mbar**LU-FEZ-0025**150 mbar** LU-FEZ-0069**1100 mbar** LU-FEZ-0345**1100 mbar** LU-FEZ-1000**2100 mbar** LU-FEZ-2000**7100 mbar** LU-FEZ-7000**-800 mbar** LU-FEZ-N025**-800 mbar** LU-FEZ-N069**-800 mbar** LU-FEZ-N345**-800 mbar** LU-FEZ-N800**1100 mar and/or -800 mbar**ELUPPU1000
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual LineUp™ series User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/lineup-series-user-manual/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Pneumatic Valve Controller
P-SWITCH
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/p-switch/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**Catégories de produit:** LineUp series
---
### [Pneumatic Valve Controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/p-switch/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of P-SWITCH pneumatic valve controller
### Expand as needed
The LineUp™ series module can be combined to add pressure/vacuum channels, valve control and turn one channel into 8 independent outlets using the pneumatic valve controller. Expand your system up to 32 outlets with 4 modules.
### Pressure & vacuum compatibility
Each P-SWITCH module requires 2 supplied sources over the range of -800 mbar to 2 bar. Combined with Flow EZ™ and Push-Pull, set a versatile system for pressure-base microfluidic experiments.
### Local control
Control and regulate pressure and flow rate without a PC using the LineUp™ hardware interface. Use the P-SWITCH buttons to quickly commute outlets between the two supplied pressure(s)/vacuum(s) and focus on the experiment.
### Parallelize reservoirs
Connect the outlets of the P-SWITCH microfluidic valve to independent reservoirs to perform independent injections. Pressurize up to 32 reservoirs simultaneously or independently.
### Actuate pneumatic valve
Connect the outlets of the pneumatic valve controller directly to quake or on-chip pneumatic valves to actuate them. Control and handle the fluid on the chip without additional tubing.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## Advantages of Fluigent’s Pneumatic Valve Control System
- Quick changing of liquids
- Less dead/internal volumes (compared to fluidic valves)
- No liquid contact with the instrument
- Less cross-contamination (compared to fluidic valves)
- Possibility to inject one or several solutions at the same time
- Expandable for multiple pneumatic controls
## How to easily control pneumatic valves
P-SWITCH is a microfluidic valve that will simplify your experiments. It allows for the pressurizing of multiple [reservoirs](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/) at once or actuating various types of pneumatic [valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) in a microfluidic set-up.
The versatility of the pneumatic valve controller comes from the fact that it can be used in combination with other LineUp modules-such as the [Push-Pull](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/) or [Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)– to provide regulated pressure as a complete and compact system, or independently as a standalone tool.
## Part of our LineUp Series
Pressure and vacuum control, flow rate control, microfluidic valve automation, and software control. Select and combine the modules you need from our range of LineUp™ products. Our devices have become the gold standard for microfluidic flow control over the years.
## Focus on the microscope. No PC is required
Instead of looking at the PC, users can keep their eyes on the [microscope](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/), adjusting the control dial with one hand. In this stand-alone configuration, the device allows for pressure or flow rate control and volume dispense making it ideal for benchtop use.
## Specifications
- Common Questions
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
### What is a pneumatic valve?
A pneumatic [valve](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) used in microfluidics is a valve that is actuated by compressed air to control the flow of fluids like oil or water in microchannels. Due to their ease of control, low power requirements, and compatibility with other pneumatic components like [pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/) and [sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/), pneumatic valves are a popular choice for microfluidic applications. Fluigent valves, for instance, can be easily integrated into setups and controlled in real-time without the need for a PC, allowing users to complexify the fluidic path of any experiment.
The flexible membrane or diaphragm of a pneumatic valve is typically made of an elastomer or polymer that can be deflected by applying pressure from an external source like an [RX pressure source](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-pressure-source/). This deflection opens or closes the microchannel, thereby controlling fluid flow.
Overall, pneumatic valves offer a versatile and reliable option for precise control of fluid flow in microfluidics. They are commonly used in various fields, including research laboratories, medical diagnostics, and chemical synthesis, due to their minimized reagent consumption, low internal volume, and prevention of cross-contamination and biofilm formation, which help avoid dead volumes.
### What are some common applications of microfluidic valve controllers?
A pneumatic valve controller is a crucial tool in [microfluidics research](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/), allowing for precise control of fluid flow in microchannels. It can be used in lab-on-a-chip devices, [cell culture applications](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/), [microdroplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) and [organ-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) devices. These controllers enable the precise control of fluid flow, nutrients, oxygen, and the generation of microdroplets, which have various applications such as drug delivery, diagnostic assays, chemical synthesis, drug testing, and disease modeling. They play a critical role in enabling the development of innovative microfluidic devices for various fields, including biomedicine, chemistry, and engineering.
### How to use the P-Switch in a microfluidic setup
The P-Switch, a pneumatic valve control system, can be integrated into a microfluidic system by connecting it to a pressure or vacuum source using tubings (able to handle positive pressure up to 2000 mbar and vacuum down to -800 mbar) .Each inlet can be connected a microfluidic path, for instance to a [reservoir](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/). It can be used alone or with other [LineUP](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) modules that can be connected together. Valves can be switched directly on the module or via the software that enables the automation of protocols and programming of pressure sequences. Finally, up to 32 different outlets can be achieved by combining the P-Switch module with three others. Start your experiment using this module and explore its potential for microfluidic applications.
**PERFORMANCE**
**Valve actuation timing**10 ms**Response time**Down to 30 ms
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions**91,9 x 71,8 x 131 mm**Weight**428 g
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power consumption**6 W
**CHEMICAL COMPATIBILITY**
**Gas compatibility**Dry, oil-free gas, air, any non corrosive or non explosive gas**Liquid compatibility**Aqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological sample
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Flow Sensing Technologies, A Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-flow-sensing-technologies/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual P-SWITCH User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/p-switch-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets P-SWITCH Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/p-switch-datasheet/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### Lab Integration Software
Custom software development SDK
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Kits
- [
### LineUp P-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-p-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### LineUp supply kit
Buy online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-supply-kit/)
**Catégories de produit:** LineUp series
---
### [완전 맞춤형 미세유체 장치 ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
**Published:** January 16, 2020
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 고객의 의견
“Fluigent의 전문성 덕분에 박사 과정 학생의 실험부터 누구나 사용할 수 있는 완전 자동화 및 병렬화된 워크플로우에 이르기까지 미세유체 프로토콜의 규모를 완전히 바꿀 수 있었습니다. 이 과정에서 아이디어와 다양한 분야의 기술을 제공했을 뿐만 아니라, Fluigent의 지원과 대응은 최고 수준이었습니다.”
*********익명의 고객*********
## 개발부터 상용화까지
각 시스템에는 고유한 사양이 있습니다. Fluigent는 고객이 구상하는 시스템을 제공하기 위해 유연한 맞춤형 미세유체 장치 개발을 제공합니다. 당사의 핵심 제공 서비스에는 고품질 표준과 만족을 보장하면서 여러분의 솔루션을 시장에 출시할 수 있는 완벽한 OEM 미세유체 서비스가 포함됩니다.
### 1. 비즈니스 컨설팅 및 시스템 요구 사항
Fluigent는 미세유체 제품 개발을 위한 모든 사용자, 비즈니스 모델, 기술 사양에 대해 논의합니다.
### 2. 기술적 타당성 및 기술 검토
고객의 요구 사항과 기술 사양을 파악한 후, 당사의 R&D 팀이 최첨단 모듈과 고유한 혁신 기술 포트폴리오를 기반으로 가장 비용 효율적인 솔루션을 제안하여 고객의 응용분야를 강화합니다.
### 3. 효율적인 솔루션 개발 및 프로토타이핑
사양과 요구 사항이 확정되면 R&D 프로젝트 팀이 맞춤형 미세유체 솔루션 개발을 전담합니다. 개발이 진행되는 동안 프로젝트의 전반적인 진행 상황을 지속적으로 업데이트해 드립니다. 투명성은 저희에게 필수적인 가치입니다. 테스트 및 검증을 위해 OEM 미세유체 맞춤형 시스템 프로토타입이 고객에게 전송됩니다.
### 4. 산업화 및 품질 관리
검증이 끝나면 R&D 부서에서 프로토타입을 생산 부서로 전송합니다. 교육, 생산 파일, 벤치 테스트 및 ISO 9001 인증에 따른 기타 품질 평가를 통해 재현성이 높은 성능을 갖춘 표준 시스템을 제공합니다.
### 5. 제품 출시/지원 및 서비스
제품이 상용화된 후에도 당사의 파트너십은 끝나지 않습니다. 맞춤형 미세유체 장치를 제작 및 배송한 후에도 Fluigent는 팀 교육 및 예비 부품 주문을 포함한 최고 수준의 지원을 제공합니다.
## OEM 미세유체 맞춤형 시스템: Fluigent의 고유한 기술 포트폴리오
15년 이상의 경험을 보유한 Fluigent는 미세유체에서 유체 안정성 및 멸균 문제를 해결하기 위해 압력을 사용하여 유체를 이동시키는 최초의 회사입니다. 지속적인 혁신 프로세스를 통해 최첨단 기술을 개발하여 현재의 한계를 극복하고 현재 20개 이상의 특허를 보유하고 있습니다. Fluigent의 기술을 맞춤형 미세유체 장치에 통합하여 고객의 응용분야를 강화하고 경쟁사보다 확실한 이점을 제공할 수 있습니다.
### DFC 유량 제어 알고리즘
실시간 압력/유량 모니터링 및 제어를 가능하게 하는 자가 학습 알고리즘
### 마이크로펌프 알고리즘
컴팩트한 압력 공급 및 제어를 위한 Fluigent 마이크로펌프 알고리즘
### 유체 믹서
생물학적 볼텍스 믹서. 궤도 운동, 질량 보정 진동
### 로봇 피펫팅
마이크로웰로의 유체 샘플링을 위한 x-y-z 로봇 스테이지
### 온도 관리
가열 및 냉각을 위한 온도 모듈
추가 서비스 보기…
Fluigent 기술 살펴보기
## 맞춤형 소프트웨어 개발
Fluigent는 잘 알려진 최종 사용자 소프트웨어 OxyGEN과 맞춤형 미세유체 장치를 위한 SDK 라이브러리를 기반으로 맞춤형 소프트웨어를 제공합니다. 사용자 인터페이스를 개발 및 설계하고 응용분야에 가장 적합한 전용 프로토콜을 생성합니다. 또한 미세유체 제품 개발 중에 타사 장치의 소프트웨어와 인터페이스하여 교차 통신을 허용하고 최고의 효율성과 사용자 친화성을 보장할 수 있습니다.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/sdk/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/09/test5.gif)
## OEM 고객 사례 연구
고객마다 상황이 다르고 특정 과제가 있기 때문에 당사는 이를 해결하기 위해 각별한 주의를 기울입니다. 고객 사례 연구를 통해 고객의 이야기와 고객과 구축한 관계를 알아보세요.
- 사례 1: 전자현미경용 시료이송장치
- 사례 2: 약물 검사기
### 상황
한 선도적인 전자 현미경 그룹은 고객을 위한 부가 가치 기능으로 표준 영상 플랫폼에 자동 샘플링 시스템을 추가하고자 했습니다. Fluigent는 OEM 미세유체 맞춤형 시스템 엔지니어링 및 제조에 대한 풍부한 경험을 바탕으로 이 보완 모듈을 개발하기 위해 접근했습니다.
### 솔루션
Fluigent의 맞춤형 미세유체 및 유체 처리 하드웨어와 소프트웨어 전문 지식은 모든 사용자 실험에 기술 지원을 제공합니다.
### 결과
샘플링 시스템은 시료를 냉장 상태로 유지하면서 장시간 영상촬영 실험에 걸쳐 시료 볼륨을 자동으로 전달합니다. 조만간 추가 기능도 클라이언트 소프트웨어에 통합되어 사용자가 한 곳에서 전체 플랫폼의 이점을 충분히 활용할 수 있게 될 것입니다.
### 상황
이 회사는 미세유체 기술 연구 후 Fluigent에 유체 처리 솔루션을 요청했습니다.
### 솔루션
고객이 생물학 분야의 독점 기술을 개발하는 데 집중하는 동안 Fluigent 팀은 유체 시스템부터 기기 설계에 이르기까지 칩을 둘러싸고 필요한 구성 요소를 만들었습니다.
### 결과
그 결과 사용자는 최소한의 사전 교육만으로 여러 개의 미세유체 장치를 동시에 사용할 수 있게 되어 정밀 의학의 체외 진단 테스트를 제공할 수 있게 되었습니다.
---
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [OEM微流控组件 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products/oem-microfluidic-components/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent M-X**
\[IVMSW1\]
## 工业用旋转多端口微流控阀
- **外形紧凑 :** 可轻松安装在系统和机器中
- **快速 :** 启动和响应时间短
- **精确 :** 内部体积低
- **自动化 :** 可使用内部软件或SDK库实现完全自动化
OEM Fluigent MX是一款十位十一通双向电动旋转阀，用于注射或选择最多10种不同的流体。流体在旋转阀中双向流动。该设备可用作选择器或分配器，用于复用或解复用用途。
[询问报价](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[MX技术规格 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-mx-cn.pdf)
**Fluigent L-X**
\[IVLSW1\]
## 工业用样本注射和再循环微流控阀
- **外形紧凑 :** 专为系统集成设计
- **快速 :** 启动和响应时间短
- **精确** : 内部体积低
- **自动化 :** 可使用内部软件或SDK库实现完全自动化
L-X OEM两位六通阀是一款双向微流控阀，专为细胞培养应用中的精确样本注射或流体再循环而设计。
[询问报价](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[LX技术规格 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-lx-cn.pdf)
**Fluigent 2-X**
IV2SWBK1
## 工业用两位三通双向阀
- **外形紧凑 :** 专为并行化设计
- **快速 :** 启动和响应时间短
- **精确** : 内部体积低
- **自动化 :** 可使用内部软件或SDK库实现完全自动化
2-X是一款紧凑型两位三通微流控阀。使用标准配件，可以集成到任何流控系统中。
[询问报价](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[2X技术规格 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-2x-cn.pdf)
**FS系列**
\[IFSXX\]
## 微流控OEM流量传感器
- **响应时间短 :** 压力式直接流速控制
- **稳定性高 :** 优异的可靠性和长期稳定性
- **可靠** : 经过行业验证的技术
- **简洁直观 :** 易于使用的系统
我们的微流控OEM流量传感器FS系列专用于流速控制和监控。当与Fluigent压力控制器组合使用时，允许进行基于压力的流量控制。双向动态流体流速能够精确测量0–1.5 µL/min到最高40 mL/min。
[询问报价 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[FS系列技术规格 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-fs-series-cn.pdf)
**Fluigent RX**
\[ISRX21\]
## OEM微流控压力源
- **外形紧凑 :** 适合工业和研究用途
- **易于使用 :** 标准连接
- **适配性强 :** 在有无电脑的情况下均可使用
RX OEM微流控压力源支持无缝集成到工业系统中或用作独立压力源，以便为微流控压力控制器提供压力源。该组件非常适合实验室环境和操作台。
该组件封装在坚固的钢制外壳内，可向一个或多个压力控制模块（如PX系列或其他需要压缩空气来操作的仪器）供应干燥且经过过滤的空气，压力最高可达2500 mbar。
[询问报价](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[RX技术规格 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-rx-cn.pdf)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [流体压力控制器](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products/pressure-controllers-for-liquids/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent PX**
\[ICPXXX\]
## 微流控OEM压力控制器
- **高精度** : 优质压力控制
- **紧凑型设计** : 工业集成专用
- **经济高效 :** 性价比卓越
FLUIGENT PX获得专利、经过现场验证的Fastab™技术可缩短沉淀时间并实现出色的稳定性。
我们的微流控OEM压力控制器提供双接口（USB和RS232），在集成时可实现出色的多功能性。交付的软件包适用于Windows和Linux平台。
[询问报价 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[PX技术规格 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-px-cn.pdf)
**F-OEM**
## 模块化OEM微流控流量控制器
- **性能卓越 :** 出色的响应时间、无脉冲且高度稳定
- **灵活 :** 可配置压力和开关控制模块
- **外形紧凑 :** 适合工业用途的独立平台
- **无污染 :** 不与流体接触
- **经济高效 :** 减少试剂消耗
我们的**F-OEM微流控流量控制器**可提供**卓越的性能**和效率以及**十分广泛的压力**和**流速范围**，从而支持要求极其苛刻的**工业应用**，包括微流控和纳米流控应用（微通道、纳米通道、毛细管、芯片实验室等）。该产品是一个**独立的模块化平台**，可执行复杂的流控操作。了解我们最新的工业流量控制器。
[询问报价 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[FOEM技术规格 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-foem-cn.pdf)
**P-OEM**
\[XXX-POEM\]
## 微流控流量管理单元
- **精确** : 高精度压力控制
- **外形紧凑** : 适合工业用途
- **经济高效 :** 可减少试剂消耗
- **通用 :** 通过众多选件实现高度定制化
P-OEM系列微流控流量管理单元采用Fluigent压力式流量控制技术，与传统注射泵或蠕动泵相比，可为工业精密微流控应用提供出色的响应时间和高度稳定的流动条件。
[询问报价 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/%e8%81%94%e7%b3%bb%e6%88%91%e4%bb%ac/)
[POEM技术规格 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-poem-cn.pdf)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [OEM 미세유체 구성 요소 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/oem-microfluidic-components/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent M-X**
\[IVMSW1\]
## 산업용 회전식 다중 포트 미세유체 밸브
- **컴팩트 :** 시스템 및 기계에 쉽게 장착 가능
- **빠름 :** 작동 및 반응 시간
- **정확성** : 낮은 내부 부피
- **자동화 :** 사내 소프트웨어 또는 SDK 라이브러리를 통한 완전 자동화
OEM Fluigent MX는 최대 10가지 유체를 주입하거나 선택할 수 있는 양방향 11포트/10방향 전기 회전식 밸브입니다. 유체는 회전식 밸브에서 양방향으로 흐릅니다. 이 장치는 멀티플렉싱 또는 디멀티플렉싱 목적으로 셀렉터 또는 분배기로 사용할 수 있습니다.
[견적 요청하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[기술 사양 MX ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-mx-ko.pdf)
**Fluigent L-X**
\[IVLSW1\]
## 산업용 시료 주입 및 재순환 미세유체 밸브
- **컴팩트 :** 시스템 통합용으로 설계됨
- **빠름 :** 작동 및 반응 시간
- **정확성 :** 낮은 내부 부피
- **자동화 :** 사내 소프트웨어 또는 SDK 라이브러리를 통한 완전 자동화
L-X OEM 6포트 2포지션 밸브는 세포 배양 응용분야에서 정밀한 시료 주입 또는 유체 재순환을 위해 설계된 양방향 미세유체 밸브입니다.
[견적 요청하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[기술 사양 LX ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-lx-ko.pdf)
**Fluigent 2-X**
IV2SWBK1
## 산업용 3포트/2웨이 양방향 밸브
- **컴팩트 :** 시스템 통합용으로 설계됨
- **빠름 :** 작동 및 반응 시간
- **정확성 :** 낮은 내부 부피
- **자동화 :** 사내 소프트웨어 또는 SDK 라이브러리를 통한 완전 자동화
2-X는 컴팩트한 3포트/2웨이미세유체 밸브입니다. 표준 피팅을 사용하여 모든 유체 시스템에 통합할 수 있습니다.
[견적 요청하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[기술 사양 2X](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-2x-ko.pdf)
**FS 시리즈**
\[IFSXX\]
## 미세유체 OEM 유량 센서
- **짧은 응답 시간 :** 압력 기반 직접 유량 제어
- **높은 안정성 :** 높은 신뢰성 및 장기 안정성
- **신뢰성 :** 업계에서 입증된 기술
- **직관적 :** 사용하기 쉬운 시스템
당사의 미세유체 OEM 유량 센서 FS 시리즈는 유량 제어 및 모니터링 전용 제품입니다. Fluigent 압력 컨트롤러와 결합하면 압력 기반 유량 제어가 가능합니다. 0~1.5µL/min의 동적 액체 유속과 최대 40mL/min의 양방향 유속을 정밀하고 정확하게 측정할 수 있습니다.
[견적 요청하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[FS 시리즈 기술 사양 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-fs-series-ko.pdf)
**Fluigent RX**
\[ISRX21\]
## OEM 미세유체 압력 소스
- **컴팩트 :** 산업 및 연구 용도에 적합함
- **사용이 용이함 :** 표준 연결
- **적응성 :** PC와 함께 또는 PC 없이 사용 가능
RX OEM 미세유체 압력 소스는 산업 시스템에 원활하게 통합하거나 미세유체 압력 컨트롤러에 공급하는 독립형 압력 소스로 사용할 수 있도록 설계되었습니다. 실험실 환경 및 벤치탑에 적합합니다.
견고한 강철 인클로저에 포장된 이 제품은 최대 2,500mbar의 건조 및 여과된 공기를 제공하여 PX 시리즈와 같은 하나 또는 여러 개의 압력 제어 모듈 또는 작동을 위해 압축 공기가 필요한 기타 기기에 사용할 수 있습니다.
[견적 요청하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[기술 사양 RX ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-rx-ko.pdf)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [액체용 압력 컨트롤러 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/pressure-controllers-for-liquids/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Fluigent PX**
\[ICPXXX\]
## 미세유체 OEM 압력 컨트롤러
- **고정밀도 :** 고품질 압력 제어
- **컴팩트 디자인 :** 산업 통합용으로 설계됨
- **비용 효율적 :** 탁월한 가격 대비 성능
특허를 획득하고 현장에서 입증된 FLUIGENT PX의 Fastab™ 기술은 빠른 안정화 시간과 뛰어난 안정성을 제공합니다.
미세유체 OEM 압력 컨트롤러는 USB와 RS232의 듀얼 인터페이스를 제공하여 통합 시 높은 활용성을 제공합니다. 제공되는 소프트웨어 패키지는 Windows 및 Linux 플랫폼에 적합합니다.
[견적 요청하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[기술 사양 PX ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-px-ko.pdf)
**F-OEM**
## 모듈식 OEM 미세유체 유량 컨트롤러
- **최고의 성능 :** 뛰어난 응답 시간, 흔들림 없는 매우 안정적인 성능
- **유연성 :** 압력 및 스위치 제어 모듈로 구성 가능
- **컴팩트:** 산업용으로 적합한 독립형 플랫폼
- **오염 방지 :** 액체와 접촉하지 않음
- **비용 효율적 :** 시약 소비량 감소
당사의 **F-OEM 미세유체 유량 컨트롤러**는 미세유체 및 나노유체 분야(마이크로채널, 나노채널, 모세관, 랩온어칩 등)를 비롯한 가장 까다로운 **산업 응용분야**를 지원할 수 있는 **최고의 성능**, 효율성, **가장 넓은 압력**, **유량 범위**를 제공합니다. 복잡한 유체 작업을 수행할 수 있는 **독립형 모듈식 플랫폼**입니다. 최신 산업용 유량 컨트롤러에 대해 알아보세요.
[견적 요청하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[FOEM 기술 사양 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-foem-ko.pdf)
**P-OEM**
\[XXX-POEM\]
## 미세유체 흐름 관리 장치
- **정확성:** 매우 정밀한 압력 제어
- **컴팩트:** 산업용으로 적합
- **비용 효율적:** 시약 소비량 감소
- **다용도:** 다양한 옵션을 통한 고도의 맞춤화
Fluigent의 압력 기반 흐름 제어 기술을 사용하는 미세유체 흐름 관리 장치 P-OEM 시리즈는 기존의 시린지 펌프나 연동 펌프에 비해 산업용 정밀 미세유체 응용분야에서 뛰어난 응답 시간과 매우 안정적인 흐름 조건을 제공합니다.
[견적 요청하기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/%eb%ac%b8%ec%9d%98%ed%95%98%ea%b8%b0/)
[POEM 기술 사양 ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/specs-poem-ko.pdf)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Specifications
Minimum pressure500mbarMaximum pressure2500mbarFree flow (flow rate at 0 mbar output)0.8L/minFlow rate at 2000 mbar5.6L/minDimensions106 x 96.5 x 61.5mmWeight823gAir qualityDried and filtered [ RX Pressure Source Datasheet
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/rx-datasheet-manual-1.pdf)
## RX and bundles
**Product Name****Pressure range in mbar****Product number**Rx Pressure source, compatible with F-OEM500 to 2500E-AC-RX1-2500Rx Pressure source, compatible with PX and P-OEM500 to 2500ISRX21RX + PX 1 barRX: 500 to 2500
PX: 0 to 1000ISPXRX11RX + PX 2 barRX: 500 to 2500
PX: 0 to 2000ISPXRX21RX Connection KitIPCKPX1RX Power kitIPPKPX1## Technical downloads
Name Type Date File Compact Pressure Source User Manual & Datasheet Fluigent products manual, Safety datasheet 2022 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/02/rx-datasheet-manual.pdf) RX Technical Specifications Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/rx-technical-specifications.pdf) RX Pressure Source Datasheet Fluigent Products Datasheets 2022 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/rx-datasheet-manual-1.pdf) Drawing RX Assembly CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_rx.pdf) STEP file RX Assembly CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_rx.zip) - RX features
- Related applications
- Case studies
- RX compatibility
## Features of our RX OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
### Compact and versatile
With a rectangular footprint of only 106 x 96.5 x 61.5 mm (4.17”x 3,8”x2.4”), the RX OEM microfluidic pressure source is a convenient compact, and reliable pressure source, packaged in a powder-coated steel enclosure. It can be mounted in any position or orientation as long as the fan intake is not obstructed, and the unit is secured to a stable point or surface.
### Condensation-proof and filtered air
The RX OEM microfluidic pressure source has a built-in air filter and drying components. It will filter and reduce the humidity of the room air to prevent condensation. The drying component is designed to perform at room temperature. For more details on air supply conditions required for your setup please contact us.
### Designed for Industrial Integration
This pressure source is a combination of hardware and software to provide pre-regulated compressed air for optimal performance, lifetime, and reliability. The user can either use the pre-programmed pressure points for a simple operation or use the RS232 interface for custom pressure targets and integration into any programming language which supports a serial connection.
- DIN rail mounting plate on demand
- Low noise, will not disturb a conversation
### Combine with a PX to ensure pulse-free liquid flow
Pulse-free flow is critical for generating high quality and repeatable results. The [PX OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/) integrates an algorithm which allows any pressure based instrument to obtain a precise pulse-free flow.
## Related applications
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
## Can industrial pressure controllers be used to monitor multiple fluids at different flow rates?
### Context
This start-up distributes an innovative vaccine development platform that uses pressure based microfluidics. Not all users have compressed air available on site.
### Solution
The RX OEM microfluidic
pressure source is proposed as an option with the platform as an external component.
### Result
Availability of air is no longer a roadblock, users enjoy the reliability of RX due to its optimal performance and drying functionality.
[More user cases](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
**PX Series**Up to 4 PX at 1 bar2 PX at 2 bar for low flowPX at 2 bar for high flow**P-OEM Module**Up to 4 channelsDepends on total air consumption: channel count, pressure and reservoir sizes for an acceptable response time
---
## Expertise & ressources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key considerations for fluidic system integration Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Components
---
### [3-port/2-way bidirectional valve for industry](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-2-x/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Specifications
Internal volume59µLDead volumenoneSwitching time3msWeight36gDimensions56.4 x 46 x 11mmWetted materialsPEEK, EPDM or FFKM (on demand)Channel diameter1.2mmMax pressure-1 to 2barOperating temperature0-50 (32-122)°C (°F)Liquid compatibilityResistant to neutral and aggressive liquidsPort communicationRJ45Software controlOxyGen, SDK [ 2-X Technical Specifications
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/2x-technical-specifications.pdf)
## 2-X References
**Name****Part number****Comment**Fluigent 2-XIV2SWBK13-port/2-way bidirectional valve2-X kitCTQKITSW2Tubing and fitting dedicated for the 2-X## Technical downloads
Name Type Date File 2-X Technical Specifications Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/2x-technical-specifications.pdf) - 2-X product features
- Related applications
- Examples of use
- FAQ
- Softwares
## Fluigent 2-X valves features
### Fluid switching and sampling
The 2-X can be used for fluid switching or sampling depending on the direction of flow. When 2 liquids are coming into the valve, select which to deliver to your device. Alternately, one liquid can be driven into selected parts of a setup for sampling/sorting.
### ON/OFF flow
The 2-X is a versatile device that can be very easily adapted into an on/off valve (2-port / 2-position) by connecting a plug to one port (other than the common port).
### Time-based automation
The valve can be **controlled by using Fluigent software** for long-term operations. Create a time-based protocol to set actuation timing of the valve(s).
### Suited for many applications
Its versatility makes it ideal for applications where fluid sorting, switching or periodic sampling is required such as fluid sorting.
### Parallelize and combine valves
The specific design of the valve allows one to combine several together with a minimum of space requirement. Added to the automation software, one can easily create multiple fluidic paths.
## Related applications
- [
### Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
## How to use the 2-X valve?
The diagram shows an example of how to use the 2-X devices.
At the upstream of the microfluidic device, 2-X are used for each inlet as on/off switches. In order to choose which reagent will be injected into the mixing chip.
At the downstream of the chip, 2-X is used as a 2-way switch to easily sort the exiting flow and recover only the sample that you want.
All the 2-X can be automated so that the selection of reagents and the outlet sorting are fully synchronized. This kind of fluidic diagram can be very useful for chemical mixing reactions, stoichiometry, and viscosity studies.
## FAQ
### How to add the 2-X in my experience and how to connect it?
- Cut the 1/16’’ OD tubing to the desired length, leaving a square-cut face.
- Slide the nut over the tubing with the nut thread facing the tubing end being connected.
- Slip the ferrule over the tubing, with the tapered portion of the ferrule facing the nut.
- Insert the assembly into the receiving port, and while holding the tubing firmly against the bottom of the port, tighten the nut finger tight.
- To check the tightness of your connection, you may pull gently on the tubing: it must stay fitted in the ferrule and nut.
Warning: The 2-SWITCH™ device can only be connected with **1/16’’ OD tubing**.
---
### How can I clean the 2-X after use?
You can clean the 2-X [in the same way than the Flow Unit](https://www.fluigent.com/faqs/#faq/how-can-i-clean-the-flow-unit-after-use)*.*
Besides, Fluigent strongly advises you to use filtered solutions. Wetted material is Teflon® only.
---
### How can I make a junction between a 2-X and tubing with external diameters different from 1/16″?
The 2-Xcan only be connected with **1/16’’ OD tubing** and the provided fittings. There is a wide variety of materials and internal diameters available with 1/16’’ tubing to suit your application. However, if you have constraints on your fluidic set-up that force you to use tubing of other external diameters than 1/16’’, a wide range of adaptors and unions are available from the fittings suppliers, to make a junction between your specific tubing and the 2-SWITCH™ tubing.
Warning: Please note that sleeves cannot be used directly in the 2-X fluidic ports (risks of trapping the smaller tubing and possible non-tight connection).
---
### With a fluidic “ON/OFF” switch configuration, should I fill with liquid the plugged path inside the 2-X before screwing the plug?
If you are planning to use a 2-X as a fluidic on/off switch, you will need to plug either port #1 or port #2 on the 2-X. For example, if you plug port #2, when in Position 2 the common port will be connected to the plug inside the 2-X. As there is still some internal volume inside the 2-X (12µL per position), it is better to fill the 2-X in Position 2 with distilled water before connecting the plug to close the position. This way, during the experiment when the valve is actuated in Position 2 to close a path, there will be no air bubble and a minimal liquid displacement in the Position 2, as it will have already been filled with liquid.
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 1.0.0.0 or more recent[**See the offer**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 21.0.0.0 or more recent[**See the offer**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets 2-X Technical Specifications Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/2-x-specifications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key considerations for fluidic system integration Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Easy Switch Solutions User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/easy-switch-solutions-user-manual/)
**Catégories de produit:** OEM Microfluidic Valves
---
### [Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Oxygen Lab automation system features
### Real-time control
With OxyGEN, take the power over all your Fluigent instruments from a single, all-in-one, dynamic interface. Customize your unique workspace and control any simulated or connected instruments.
### Protocol editing
Edit and save time-based protocols with the dedicated functions of our lab automation control system. Set pressures, flow rates and valve positions. Create loops and conditional paths to turn your experiment into an automated microfluidic protocol.
### Simultaneous commands
Control instruments, at programmed times or in real time. Lock your controls to set your orders on connected or simulated instruments and actuate them all at the same time for simultaneous operation.
### Simulation mode
The entire Fluigent product line available for simulation. Access the complete set of features and bring your lab to full automation, as if you were in the lab.
### Channel coupling
Control several channels at the same time. Couple channels together, set a ratio factor and use a single slider to control multiple channels simultaneously in real time.
### Hot plug & play
Connect, use, reconnect without starting over. Any connected instrument, even during operation, will be detected by the lab automation software, displayed and instantly available for control and automation.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## Real-time control and relevant data generation with OxyGEN
Interact with your instruments through an all-in-one screen to automate your lab experiments. Control and monitor pressures, flow rates and [valve](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) positions, in real time.. Explore all the capabilities of the Fluigent lab automatisation software with its additional functions such as the ability to build time-based protocols and automate any experiment Benefit from outstanding features such as channel coupling, protocols and instruments simulations, communication via TTL, hot plug & play initialization, and fully customize the way your experiment is conducted.
## OxyGEN for lab automation is all free of charge, download it and test it now!
## Oxygen Lab automation software Compatibility
- Operating System
**Windows 32/64-bits**
Windows 7 SP2Windows 8Windows 10Windows 11
****MacOS 64-bits****
Catalina 10.15+
**Linux** **32/64-bits**
Debian 10 (Buster)+Ubuntu 16.04+Fedora 33+
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos
- version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Download software
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Creating Microcapsules With PEGDA Hydrogel Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pegda-hydrogel-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos OxyGEN SOFTWARE | The RESULT of 15 YEARS of EXPERIENCE in FLUID MANAGEMENT Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/oxygen-software-the-result-of-15-years-of-experience-in-fluid-management/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos OxyGEN for Live Control of FLUIGENT Microlfuidic Devices: Getting Started Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/oxygen-for-live-control-of-fluigent-microlfuidic-devices-getting-started-tutorial/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos OxyGEN: Advanced Live Control of a Microfluidic Set-Up Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/oxygen-advanced-live-control-of-a-microfluidic-set-up-tutorial/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos OxyGEN Automation Protocols: Creation and Editing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/oxygen-automation-protocols-creation-and-editing-tutorial/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos OxyGEN Automations Protocols: Container Blocks for Loops and Conditions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/oxygen-automations-protocols-container-blocks-for-loops-and-conditions-tutorial/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos Meet OxyGEN : AUTOMATION and REAL TIME control software – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/meet-oxygen-automation-and-real-time-control-software-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Download software OxyGEN Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual OxyGEN User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/oxygen-user-manual/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic In-Line Pressure Sensor
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/pressure-unit/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
**Catégories de produit:** Software Solutions
---
### [Sample injection and recirculation microfluidic valve for industry](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-l-x/)
**Published:** January 11, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Specifications
Internal volume660µLDead volumenoneSwitching time100msWeight475gDimensions7x9x15mmWetted materialsPEEKMax pressure7barLiquid compatibilityAqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological samplePort communicationRJ45Software controlOxyGen, SDK [ L-X Technical Specifications
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/lx-technical-specifications-1.pdf)
## L-X References
**Name****Part number****Comment**Fluigent L-XIVLSW1
Sample injection and recirculation microfluidic valve for industry
## Technical downloads
Name Type Date File L-X Technical Specifications Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/lx-technical-specifications-1.pdf) - OEM 6 port 2 position valve features
- Related applications
- Comparing with peristaltic pump
- Examples of use
- FAQ
- Softwares
## Fluigent L-X valve features
### Precise fluid injection
Several sample loops are available, from 5 µL to 100 µL.
### Fluigent software for automation
The L-X microfluidic valve can be controlled by Fluigent software for long-term experiments. Create a time-based protocol to set actuation timing of the valve(s).
### A versatile valve
The OEM 6 port 2 position valve can be operated using pressure up to 7 bar (100 psi), and the wetted material is PEEK, a highly chemically and biocompatible material.
### Minimized liquid waste
Low port-to-port volume of 660 nL.
## Related applications
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
## Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers VS Peristaltic pump
**Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers****Peristaltic pump**s**Flow stability**High (<1% variation)Low (>20% variation)**Response time**HighMedium**Pressure control**YesNo**Price**Medium-HighLow**Implementation**Requires pressure sourcesEasy
## How to use the L-X device ?
### Working principle
Peripheral valve ports (numbered from 1 to 6) can alternatively be connected to the right or the left channels. The L-X OEM microfluidic valve is actuated by a motor that drives a rotor – where the fluidic path is engraved – against a stator – containing the fluidic paths.
### Fluid recirculation
The L-X 6 port 2 position valve can be used as a useful cell culture tool: a small volume of buffer can be recirculated within a closed loop into the chip for several hours or days. Combined with our pressure-based flow controllers, it can achieve a highly stable flow rate, allowing to better mimic flow-induced shear stress experienced by cells in vivo.
The figure shows the working principle: fluid is injected from reservoir 1 to reservoir 2 and passes through the L-X. When reservoir 1 is almost empty, fluid is injected from reservoir 2 to reservoir 1, and the port positions of the L-X are switched so that fluid is injected on the same direction, which is usually required for cell culture under flow.
## FAQ
### How to add the L-X in my experiment and how to connect it?
- Connect the L-X to the SWITCH EZ port
- Cut the 1/16’’ OD tubing to the desired length, leaving a square-cut face.
- Insert the tubing into a nut until it passes 1.5 – 3mm.
- Insert into a port of L-X, twist until it is tightened. You can pull gently the tubing to verify that it is securely connected to the port.
---
### How to connect a sample loop to the L-SWITCHTM?
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components-3/l-switch/)
---
### How to connect a sample loop to the L-X?
- In order to connect a sample loop to the L-SWITCH™, you will need two nuts and two ferrules, in addition to the sample loop itself (nuts and ferrules are provided with the sample loop).
- Pass one end of the sample loop through a nut.
- Add a ferrule
- Hold the set together and insert it into a port of the L-SWITCH™ (for example, port 1 here).
- Twist until the set is tightened. You can pull gently the sample loop to verify that it is securely connected.
- Repeat these steps for the other end of the sample loop to connect it to another port of the L-SWITCH™ (for example port 4 here).
---
### How can I clean the L-X after use?
You can clean the L-Switch™ in [the same way than the Flow Unit](https://www.fluigent.com/faqs/#faq/how-can-i-clean-the-flow-unit-after-use)*.*
Besides, Fluigent strongly advises you to use filtered solutions. Wetted materials are PEEK only.
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 1.0.0.0 or more recent[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)[**See the offer**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 21.0.0.0 or more recent[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)[**See the offer**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets L-X Technical Specifications Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/l-x-valve-specifications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key considerations for fluidic system integration Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets L-SWITCH™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/l-switch-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
**Catégories de produit:** OEM Microfluidic Valves
---
### [Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Performance
Flow rate range0 – 40mLAccuracy5 – 20 %m.v.Calibrated mediaWater, IPA, HFEMaximum pressure12 – 200barSensor technologyThermal sensorPort communicationMicro USBSoftware controlOxyGEN, Fluigent SDK [ FS series Datasheet
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/07/fluigent-datasheet-fs-series-4.pdf)
## FS Series
SeriesFS seriesFS seriesFS+ seriesFS+ seriesSensor modelXSSM+L+Part numberIFSXS1IFSS1FLU-M+-OEMFLU-L+-OEMRange0±1.5µL/minWater 0±7µL/min
IPA 0±70µL/min0±2mL/min0±40mL/minAccuracy (m.v.= measured value)
also applies to negative values**Water**
10% m.v. above 75 nL/min
7.5 nL/min below 75 nL/min**Water**
5% m.v. above 0.42 µL/min
21 nL/min below 0.42 µL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 4.2 µL/min
210 nL/min below 4.2 µL/min**Water**
5% m.v. above 2.4 µL/min
0.12 µL/min below 2.4 µL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 25 µL/min
5 µL/min below 25 µL/min**Water**
5% m.v. above 0.04 mL/min
1.5 µL/min below 0.04 mL/min
**IPA**
20% m.v. above 0.5 mL/min
100 µL/min below 0.5 mL/minCalibrated mediaWaterWater IPAWater IPAWater IPALowest detectable flow increment3.7 nL/min10 nL/minN/AN/ASensor diameter25 µm150 µm400 µm400 µmMaximum pressure200 bar200 bar12 bar12 barWetted materialsPEEK
& Quartz GlassPEEK
& Quartz GlassPPS, stainless steel 316L
Fittings: PEEK/ ETFEPPS, stainless steel 316L
Fittings: PEEK/ ETFEDimensions53x22x9mm53x22x9mm65x36x25mm65x36x25mmInner volume1µL1.5µL~ 28µL~ 58 µL## Technical downloads
Name Type Date File FS Series Technical Specifications Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/fs-series-technical-specifications-1.pdf) FS series Datasheet Fluigent Products Datasheets 2022 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/07/fluigent-datasheet-fs-series-4.pdf) FS Series User Manual Fluigent products manual 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/07/fs-series-user-manual.pdf) Safety Datasheet FS series Safety datasheet 2022 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/07/fluigent-saftey-fs-series.pdf) Drawing OEM Flow Sensor CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_oem_fu.pdf) STEP file OEM Flow Sensor CAD 2023 ZIP [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_prtext_flow_unit_oem.zip) Drawing OEM Flow Sensor Assembly CAD 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fgt_drwext_oem_fu_asm.pdf) - FS series product features
- Related applications
- Why adding a flow sensor?
- Pressure-based flow control
- Which flow sensor choose?
- Softwares
## Features of our industrial flow sensor
### High accuracy for various flow rate ranges
Highly precise flow measurement with an accuracy of **less than 5% error** on the measured value. The different Flow Sensor models offer an extensive choice of flow-rate ranges to best match your needs over the **range of 7nL/min to 40 mL/min.**
### Air bubble detection\*
In addition to liquid monitoring, it is possible to detect bubbles using the microfluidic OEM flow sensor during an experiment.
\*Bubble detection is only available for the FS+ series
### Plug & Play
Using Fluigent electronics and algorithms, the sensors are directly recognized by Fluigent systems and [SDK](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)/[software](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) for starting experiments right away.
### Compact and fast integration
The microfluidic OEM flow sensors were developed to be cost-effective and easily integrated into any system.
## Related applications
- [
### Combining Microfluidics and Spectroscopy
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/microfluidics-and-spectroscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidic Drug Discovery
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
## Why can flow rate be vital for your application?
Flow rate may need to be tightly controlled for a number of applications. In [droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/), it is useful to correlate the droplet size with the droplet frequency (generation rate). For dynamic [organ-on-chip applications](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/), the flow rate is needed to [evaluate the shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) imposed on cells. It is also an important feature for applications that require dispensing a specific volume of liquid, such as for cell imaging applications in which various reagents are delivered. Fluigent microfluidic OEM flow sensor is suitable for all types of aqueous liquids, such as distilled water, media, PBS, etc.
It is useful for many biological applications, including:
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS) applications using microfluidic [Digital PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=ddpcr) to quantify ctDNA in liquid biopsies for oncology, to detect low-level genetic variants in infectious diseases
- Microscopy for cell biology research, DNA-PAINT imaging, genomics research, live cell imaging
- [Drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=drug+discovery) using microphysiological systems such as 3D-(co)-cultures, organoids, organ-on-chip models
- Molecular analysis including microfluidic modulation spectroscopy or mass photometry
## Benefits of the FS Series and FS Series + industrial flow sensor
### Fluigent provides highly stable and responsive real-time flow control
By directly connecting a microfluidic OEM flow sensor to Fluigent pressure controllers, it is possible to **monitor or control the flow rate in real time**. The algorithm includes a continuous optimization of the parameters, allowing it to adapt to the interactions between fluidic channels in complex situations.
### Fluigent’s powerful pressure regulation algorithm is based on physical equations and self-learning routines that offer several benefits:
- No overshoot/undershoot, allowing for a responsive, accurate, and stable flow rate
- Adapts to any reservoir size
- Compatible with a wide pressure or vacuum range (up to 7,000 mbar, -800 mbar vacuum, standalone pressure/vacuum regulation capability)
## Select the best flow sensor for your application
### Mid- and high-flow applications (7uL/min – 40 mL/min): FS + series
For applications that require flow rates ranging from 7 µL/min to 40 mL/min, we recommend our latest microfluidic OEM flow sensor series. It consists of a high-precision sensor and electronics integrated into a compact casing. Standard M3 sized screws can be used for fixing the device. Using these flow sensors, one can also monitor liquid temperature and detect air bubbles that pass through the sensor.
Two references are available: **L+** and **M+**
### FS series L+
H2O full-scale flow rate: 0 – ± 40 mL/min\*
Accuracy: ±5 % of measured value if flow rate > 1 mL/min,
50 µL/min if flow rate < 1 mL/min
\*Additional specifications available on the specification table and on the datasheet
### FS series M+
H2O full-scale flow rate: 0 – ± 2 mL/min\*
Accuracy: ±5 % of measured value if flow rate > 10 µL/min,
0.5 µL/min if flow rate < 10 µL/min
\*Additional specifications available on the specification table and on the datasheet
### Low flow applications (< 7 uL/min): FS series
For applications that require flow rates lower than 10 µL/min, we recommend our original flow sensor series. Two references are available: **XS** and **S**
## For which fluids can these flow meters be used?
The choice of the flow sensor depends on the fluids used in a specific application. Indeed, the characteristics of a given fluid can influence the results displayed by the flow sensor.
For example, assessing the flow rate of a highly viscous fluid will not yield the same results as measuring the flow rate of water. Our OEM microfluidic flow sensors are pre-calibrated for water and IPA, which cover the most commonly used fluids. However, you can also use liquids with different properties; you just need to calibrate the sensor first.
Similarly, depending on the composition of the flow sensor, some corrosive fluids may not be safe to use, even though our flow sensors are chemically resistant. For our original flow sensor series, the wetted materials are PEEK and quartz glass, and for our FS series+, the wetted materials are Polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) and stainless steel 316L. Please ensure that your fluid is compatible with these materials before using the sensor.
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[**See the offer**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[**See the offer**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Components
---
### [Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/)
**Published:** January 11, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Specifications
Internal volume4.5µLCarryover volume2.8µLDead volumenoneRotation time for 180°400msSwitching time from Port to Port> 136msWeight590gDimensions65 x 55 x 11mmWetted materialsUHMW-PE, PCTFEChannel diameter0.5mmMax pressure7barOperating temperature15-40 (41-104)°C (°F)Liquid compatibilityAqueous solvent, oil, organic solent, biological samplePort communicationRJ45Software controlOxyGen, SDK [ M-X Technical Specifications
](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/mx-technical-specifications-2.pdf)
## M-X References
**Name****Part number****Comment**Fluigent M-XIVMSW1**Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry**## Technical downloads
Name Type Date File M-X Technical Specifications Fluigent Products Datasheets 2023 PDF [ ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/mx-technical-specifications-2.pdf) - OEM M-X electric rotary valve features
- Related applications
- Case studies
- Examples of use
- FAQ
- Softwares
## Fluigent M-X rotary valve features
### 11-port/10-position
The Fluigent M-X is an 11-port / 10-position electric rotary valve. Any of the peripheral ports (numbered from 1 to 10) can be connected to the central channel, and the fluidic path created is bidirectional. The MX microfluidic electric rotary valve is actuated by a motor that drives a rotor. It can also be used with a manifold to use a single pressure pump to deliver multiple liquids.
### Sequential injections
Up to 10 liquids can be sequentially delivered. Each step can be automated using Fluigent software.
### Automation
The **MX OEM Electric Rotary valve** can be **controlled by our software** for long-term experiments. Create a time-based protocol to set actuation timing of the microfluidic valve(s).
## Related applications
- [
### Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
- [
### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
## Can industrial pressure controllers be used to monitor multiple fluids at different flow rates?
### Context
An established company makes wastewater testing systems using syringe pumps. The system draws samples and reagents from multiple reservoirs. The moving seals on the syringe pump break often and cause device failure and wasted reagent.
### Solution
Fluigent proposed a 10 port M switch rotary valve powered by a pressure pump which doesn’t use moving seals.
### Result
The Fluigent solution eliminated leakage and decreased overall reagent consumption due to a lower internal volume.
## How to use the M-X device ?
**Example 1: sequential injection of several fluids**
In this application example, up to 10 liquids (4 on the schematic) are selected sequentially to be delivered to the chip by the M-X OEM Microfluidic Electric Rotary Valve. The samples at the outlet of the chip may also be sorted by using a bidirectional valve either into a collection tube or to waste. Each step can be automated either by using Fluigent software.
**Example 2: Sample generation and collection**
In this application example, different concentrations of the molecule of interest are injected into the chip generating water in oil droplets containing various concentrations. The droplets are then sorted at the outlet of the chip using the **M-X OEM Microfluidic Electric Rotary Valve** on their analyze concentrations. Each step can be automated using Fluigent software.
## FAQ
### How to add the M-X in my experiment and how to connect it?
To learn how to connect the M-Switch™ on the Switchboard, go to the ESS™ section.
Concerning the tubing connection:
1\. Cut the 1/16’’ OD tubing to the desired
length, leaving a square-cut face.
2\. Slide the ¼ -28 fitting over the tubing,
with the thread facing outwards. Slip the
ferrule over the tubing, with the tapered
portion of the ferrule facing the fitting.
3\. The conectors and ferrules are specifically designed to work together. FLUIGENT
advises you to only use the provided
ferrules together with the provided nuts.
4\. Insert the assembly into the receiving
port, and while holding the tubing firmly
against the bottom of the port, tighten
the connector.
5\. To check the tightness of your connection, you may pull gently on the tubing
and verify that it remains secure.
---
### How can I clean the M-X after use?
You can clean the M-Switch™ in the same way than the Flow Unit.
Besides, Fluigent strongly advises you to use filtered solutions. Wetted materials are custom PCTFE and UHMW-PE.
---
### How to use tubing with external diameters different from 1/32″?
If one wants to use tubing with external diameters different from 1/32″, a sleeve should be used to adapt to the different size
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and exportver. 1.0.0.0 or more recent[**See the offer**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 21.0.0.0 or more recent[**See the offer**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
---
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets M-X Technical Specifications Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/m-x-valve-specifications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies OEM Case Study: Microfluidic Drug Screening Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key considerations for fluidic system integration Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets M-SWITCH™ Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/m-switch-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
**Catégories de produit:** OEM Microfluidic Valves
---
### [Connection Box](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/connectic-box/)
**Published:** September 5, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the Connection Box
### Ideal for beginners
The Connection Box contains all the tubing, connectors, and accessories you need to get started in microfluidics. The box will help beginners create their first microfluidic set-ups, based on Fluigent pressure-based flow controller technologies.
### Versatile
As it contains different models of tubing and connectors, as well as pressure shut-off valves and pieces for splitting the flow, this microfluidic toolbox will enable you to carry out any type of experiment for any type of application.
### Portable
All the elements of the connection starter kit are stored in a practical and portable box. Its modular compartments and compact size make it easy to transport.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
[**More about our**
**pressure-based flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/)
## How to create a microfluidic setup using Fluigent technology
Fluigent has developed a range of [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) to meet the need for precise flow rate control and to overcome the problems caused by commonly used systems such as [syringe pumps and peristaltic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/). These products from the [LineUp](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) or [MFCS](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) series are ideal instruments for your microfluidic setups, since they offer very high fast response times and excellent gas pressure regulation, ensuring excellent flow stability. To realise a microfluidic setup using these pressure controllers, y connection to a [source of compressed air](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/) and a [reservoir](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/) containing the fluid is required. The reservoir is then connected to a [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/), and the fluids will move due to the pressure difference. Additional intruments or [accessories](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/) can be added depending on the application. You can add a [microfluidic flow sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) to control the flow rate or [valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) to either stop the flow into the microfluidic chip or change between two or more fluids. To avoid bubbles in your microfluidic setup, a [bubble trap](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/) can be implemented. Also, experiments can be monitored via pressure controllers or using the [Oxygen](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) software on a computer. Finally, buiding your setup requires the use of various fittings and microfluidic tubing to connect themicrofluidic device to the various elements of the microfluidic system.
### Starting with microfluidics
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) technologyappeals to both academic researchers and industrial groups. The technology is increasing in popularity as it significantly reduces the need for samples and reagents, shortens experimentation time, and lowers overall application costs. In addition, the miniaturization and automation process facilitated by microfluidics offers a number of advantages, such as improved experimental precision, lower detection limits, and the ability to run multiple analyses simultaneously. By combining the connection box with [Fluigent’s packages](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/), users can easily launch experiments such as [cell recirculation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/), [sorting experiments](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/) or [droplet formation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/).
Access to microfluidic technologies is at your fingertips with Fluigent products.
[
### Microfluidic Size Cell Sorting Pack
Microfluidic Size Cell Sorting Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/)
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
## Starter connection kit contents
### Tubing
Working in a microfluidic environment requires the use of microfluidic tubing to connect a device to the various elements of a microfluidic circuit.
When selecting tubing, users should become familiar with the influence of tubing dimensions:
- “OD” means outer diameter.
- “ID” means inner diameter: Diameter of the fluidic path along which fluid flows. The inner diameter plays a significant role in the resistivity generated by the tubing: the smaller it is, the more resistant the tubing will be.
- “L” means length. Usually the tubing is made as short as possible to have smaller internal volumes: the internal volume of the tubing being the inner section multiplied by the length of the tubing. It is also a parameter that takes part in the resistivity of the tubing.
The connection box contains five types of tube made from different materials and with different external and internal diameters, to suit every need.
### Connectors, sleeves, and adaptors
To adapt these tubes to all fluigent instruments, the microfluidic toolbox includes a range of connectors, adapters, and sleeves. For example, the green sleeve supplied with the connector starter kit has the right internal diameter to fit a 1/32″ tube, and has an external diameter of 1/16″. This allows a 1/32″ tube to be converted locally into a 1/16″ tube, making it compatible with fittings designed for 1/16″ pipe.
### Valve
The Connection Box also contains small valves. These small manual valves can be placed in the microfluidic circuit and can open or close the tube to control fluid flow.
### Cross and T junctons
These crossand T-shaped connectors allow the flow to be split into several channels.
### Tube cutter
In order to obtain an interface and prevent any clogging or collapse of the fluidic path, all tubing should be cut using specifically designed cutters. One is included in the **connector box.**
## Specifications
### Package content
- Technical specifications
**Tygon tubing 1×3 mm**3m******PEEK tubing 1/32” OD – ID 0.010” (0,25mm)******3m****PEEK tubing 1/32” OD – ID 0.005” (0,13mm)****3m****FEP Tubing 1/16″ OD ID 0,040″ (0,75mm)****3m****FEP Tubing 1/16″ OD ID 0,020″ (0,5mm)****3m****FEP Tubing 1/16″ OD ID 0,010″ (0,25mm)****3m****Sleeve 1/16″ – 1/32″****5**Flangeless fitting 1/4-28 and blue ferrule**5**Adapter 10/32**4**Tubing reducer 1/16” – 1/32”**2**PEEK black plug 1/4-28** 5**Fluidic cross Junction**2**Fluidic T Junction**2**Manual fluidic valve**2**Tubing cutter**1**Box**1
---
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
- [
### Microfluidic Size Cell Sorting Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/)
- [
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
- [
### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/adapt/)
- [
### Microfluidic Software Control
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
### Pneumatic Valve Controller
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/p-switch/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Connection Box Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/connection-box/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Accessories
---
### [Compact Pressure Source ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-pressure-source/)
**Published:** April 20, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of our Pressure Source
### Compact
With reduced dimensions of 106 x 96.5 x 61.5 mm, this small microfluidic pressure generator will fit on any lab bench.
### 2 positions for 2 applications
A switch located at the back of the device allows users to choose between 2 configurations: the left side, which delivers 1,300 mbar and enables the pressurization of 1 or 2 Flow -Ez 1 bars, and the right side, which delivers 2,400 mbar, and can be used to pressurize Flow Ez 2 bars.
### Filtered and dried air
The compact pressure source reduces the pressurized air’s humidity to ensure there is no condensation. In addition, a built-in air filter prevents dust from entering the microfluidic system.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## Combine with a Flow-Ez to ensure pulse-free flow
The Fluigent RX compact air compressor can be easily connected to a Flow- Ez 1 bar or 2 bar to ensure a highly stable injection of fluids.
## Specifications
- Specifications
- Product compatibility
****PNEUMATIC SPECIFICATION****S
**Minimum pressure**500 mbar****Maximum pressure****2500 mbar**Free flow (flow rate at 0 mbar output)**0,8 L/min**Flow rate at 2000 mbar**5,6 L/min
****HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS****
**Dimensions (L\*W\*H)**106 x 96,5 x 61,5 mm**Weight**823 g
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power voltage**24 V**Maximum current**800 mA****Maximum power consumption****19 W
### **Flow EZ**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)**[Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Flow EZ"):**
- **Up to 2 Flow EZ 1 bar**
- **1 Flow EZ 2 bar**
---
## Expertise & ressources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets RX Technical Specifications Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/rx-specifications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets RX Pressure Source Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/rx-pressure-source-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Pressure Sources
---
### [Digital High-speed Microscope](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
**Published:** March 22, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Download the documents
[Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/digital-high-speed-camera-datasheet/)
[User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/imaging-modules_usermanual_opto.pdf)
[Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/application-note_microscope_opto.pdf)
[OptoViewer 2.0 User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/usermanual_optoviewer.pdf)
[OptoViewer 2.0 Quick Guide](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/quickguide_optoviewer.pdf)
## Features of Opto High-Speed Camera
### Plug & Play solution
The high-speed microscope comes ready to use. It connects to a PC via a USB 3.1 cable. The device includes a fast camera with fixed optic parameters, allowing for highly reproducible results.
### Ultra-compact & robust
With dimensions of only W140 x L193 x H40**,** the high-speed microscope is one of the most compact units available. It allows users to save bench space.
### Microscopy for microfluidics
The digital camera and optics are optimized to fit with microfluidic applications. With 5X magnification, fast image acquisition of up to 1000 fps, high resolution (360LP/mm), and high contrast transmission though brightfield transmitted light (4000K), the microscope can track droplets and other fast-moving particles in microfluidic systems. The large FoV of (1.3 x 0.84 mm) and the working distance of 13 mm allow users to work with many types of microfluidic setups.
### Optimized Microfluidic software
The OptoViewer software allows for visualization, photography, and video recording. The software offers many features including adjustable imaging settings (exposure time, framerate, gain, and more) and annotations, which are ideal for microfluidic experiments. In addition, the integrated droplet plug-in allows for live microfluidic droplet measurement and counting.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
## High-speed microscope for microfluidics: “Track Droplet” software plugin
The OptoViewer software features a “Track Droplets” plugin. Thisallows for droplet/particle analysis. Single cells or microfluidic droplets can be automatically detected, tracked, velocity measured, and volume determined or read out inline. All statistics are displayed and can be saved.
- Droplet count
- Droplet per second
- Average droplet size
## Combine with Fluigent Pressure – Flow Controllers for the most reliable results
In microfluidic devices, droplet size and generation rate are directly linked to the flow rates of the liquid solution phases . [Fluigent pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) provide highly stable flow rates (0.1% CV pressure, < 5% of measured flow rate value) with excellent response times (< 1s), producing highly homogenous droplets or particles for long periods of time.
## Microscopy for droplet microfluidics
### Water-in-oil and oil-in-water emulsion production
An emulsion refers to a mixture of two liquids that are normally unable to mix. It consists of small droplets of one liquid suspended within another liquid. Specifically, [in oil-in-water](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/) (O/W) emulsions, tiny droplets of oil are dispersed and enclosed within the continuous water phase. In [water in oil](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/) (W/O) emulsions, small droplets of water are dispersed within the continuous oil phase.
These emulsion techniques, O/W and W/O are extensively utilized in various OEM and research settings to create droplets, hydrogel beads, polymer beads, or wax beads.
Fluigent has published several application notes on this topic, introducing cutting-edge technology that involves the use of a high-speed microscope. This tool enables researchers to observe the production of high-quality monodispersed droplets.
Figure 1: Water-in-oil droplets generated by Fluigent controllers and chips, visualized through the microscope.
### Read our application notes:
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Water in Oil Emulsions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Oil in Water Emulsions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
### Double emulsion production
In addition to its use in single-emulsion experiments, our fast microscope for microfluidics can also be utilized in setups involving double emulsions. The [creation of double emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/) hold great promise in various academic and industrial fields. Examples include fragrance manufacturing in the cosmetics industry, food applications, drug delivery in pharmaceutics, and more.
The application note “[Double Emulsion Generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/ "Double Emulsion Generation")” introduces Fluigent’s [Double Emulsion Production Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/ "Double Emulsion Production Pack"): a comprehensive system equipped with a microscope. This system enables the production of monodisperse double emulsions. It features the [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/), developed and manufactured by Secoya, to facilitate one-step production of double emulsions using a single device.
Figure 2: System setup for double emulsions
### Read our application note:
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Double Emulsion Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
### Microparticles Synthesis
Fluigent technology enables the production of highly monodispersed microparticles or microcapsules. Several materials are used depending on the final application, including [alginates](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/ "alginates"), [PLGA](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/), or agarose microparticles. To achieve a high level of uniformity, the [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) is utilized as part of a microfluidic setup that includes the digital high-speed microscope.
Figure 3: System for PLGA microparticle production.
### See our application notes for microparticles production:
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### PLGA Microparticles Synthesis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Agarose Microcapsules Synthesis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
“I see great potential for our collaboration. As Opto, we can support FLUIGENT in optics, microscopy, automation, and software. Our small and compact microscopy solutions are perfect for the combination with microfluidics (compact, cost-efficient, scalable, high quality made in Germany).
The greatest benefit for the users is our free AI- based Software. It enables the recognition and tracking of objects like particles or droplets. This input is further used to control the pump. This is what makes our common package unique.”
**Daniel Kraus | Product Manager Biophotonics at Opto GmbH | Project Manager at SpectroNet**
## Specifications Microscope
Magnification 5X FoV \[mm\] 1.3 x 0.84 Resolution \[LP|mm\] 360 Working Distance WD \[mm\] 13Object Space Resolution \[μm/Pixel\] 0.7 Depth of Field DoF \[mm\] 0.008 Sensor IMX392LQR-C| 2.35 MP | Colour | 166 fps\*
\*At maximum resolution. By reducing pixels area, fps can go up to ~1000fps Dimensions \[mm\] W140 x L193 x H40 Weight \[g\] 1400 Interface USB3.1 Gen 1 Type C Illumination Transmitted light | white| 4000K Control Software OptoViewer 2.0 Certifications CE / RoHS / WEEE-Reg.-No. DE 68564667 Markus Riedi, CEO Opto GmbH
## Expertise & resources
- All
- Expertise
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microsphere-production/)
- [ Expertise Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Agarose Microcapsules Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets High-speed Microscope Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/digital-high-speed-camera-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Oil in Water Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Impedance Measurement of Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
## Related products
- [
### PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Automation Pack)
PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Automation Pack)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-microparticle-production-station-automation-package/)
- [
### PLGA Microparticle Production Standard Pack
PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Standard Pack)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-production-station/)
- [
### Liposome Production Pack
Produce liposomes reproducibly over the size range from 40 nm to 150 nm
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
- [
### Alginate Bead Generation Pack
Alginate Bead Generation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/)
- [
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Double Emulsion Generation Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
## Accessories
- [
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Accessories
---
### [Fully Custom Microfluidic Device](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
**Published:** January 16, 2020
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Fluigent has OEM partnerships with several brands in various fields.
### What our customers say
“Fluigent’s expertise enabled us to completely change the scale of our microfluidic protocols, from the Ph.D. student experiment to the fully automated and parallelized workflow available for anyone. In addition to accompanying us in this process with their ideas and multi-disciplinary skills, Fluigent’s support and responsiveness are first class!”
***Anonymous customer***
## From development to commercialization: a long-term partnership
Each system has unique specifications. Fluigent offers flexible, custom microfluidic device development to provide the system you envision. Our core offering includes complete **OEM microfluidic services** to bring your solution to market while ensuring high-quality standards and satisfaction.
### 1. Understanding customer needs
Fluigent discusses all users, business models, and technical specifications for your microfluidic product development. To understand your specific challenges and be sure to achieve your objectives, concept development is discussed.
### 2. Technical feasibility
After identifying your needs and technical specifications, our R&D team will evaluate the technical feasibility of the project. We will then propose the most cost-efficient solution based on our state-of-the-art modules and unique portfolio of innovative technologies to empower your application. The system requirements are set to take your project from concept to reality.
### 3. Solution development & Prototyping
Once the specifications and requirements are fixed, an R&D project team will be dedicated to the development of your custom microfluidic solution. Throughout the development, we will continuously update you on the project’s overall progress. Transparency is an essential value for us. The OEM microfluidic custom system prototype will be sent to you for testing and validation.
### 4. Industrialization & Quality Management
After validation, our R&D will transfer your prototype to our production department. Through training, production files, bench tests, and other quality assessments driven by our **ISO 9001 certificate,** we deliver a standard system with highly reproducible performance. We developed effective systems to meet industry standards. Our processes are constantly tested for continual improvement and trackability. We are confident in the quality of the device that will be delivered.
### 5. Support and Service
Our partnership for does not end once your product is commercialized. After we build and ship your custom microfluidic device, Fluigent will provide first-class support including team training and spare part orders. Support training is customized to your specific needs.
## Fluigent’s unique portfolio of technologies
With more than 15 years of experience, Fluigent was the first company to use pressure to move fluids for microfluidics to face [fluid stability and sterility ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/ "fluid stability and sterility ")challenges. Thanks to a continuous innovation process, we tackle current limitations with developing cutting-edge technologies and currently own more than 20 patents. Our knowledge in electronics, mechanics, pneumatics, software, and fluidics engineering provides efficient solutions in response to current market needs. By integrating our technologies into your custom microfluidic device, Fluigent will empower your application and offer you a true advantage over your competitors.
### DFC Flow Rate Control Algorithm
[Self-learning algorithm](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/direct-flow-control-algorithm/ "DFC, “self-learning” flow rate control algorithm") allowing live pressure and/or flow-rate monitoring and control
### Compact All-in-One Micropumps
Fluigent algorithm in [micropumps ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/fluigent-technologies-ko/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/ "(Patent pending) compact all-in-one pressure supply & pressure/flow control")for compact pressure supply and control
### Fluid Stirring
Dispersion modules: orbital shaker, vortex mixer and magnetic stirrer
### Robotic pipetting
3 dimensions robotic stage for fluid sampling into microwells
### Temperature management
Temperature modules for heating and cooling
And many more…
[Discover our technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/)
## Custom software development
We provide custom software based on our well-known end-user [**software OxyGEN**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/) as well as on our [**SDK library**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/sdk/) for your custom microfluidic device. We develop and design your user interface and create dedicated protocols to best suit your application. In addition, we can interface with software from third-party devices during your microfluidic product development to allow cross-communication and guarantee the best efficiency and user-friendliness.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/sdk/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/09/test5.gif)
## Our portfolio of techniques
Fluigent’s range of technologies can bring our microfluidic expertise to various fields.
### Optical microscopy
OEM solutions for customed perfusion system or any flow management system dedicated to an end-to-end workflow.
### Laboratory automation
Liquid handling solutions for sample preparation and dilution for our OEM partners.
### Drug discovery
Fully automated workflows allowing for sequential injection, fluid recirculation, or microfluidic droplet generation.
### Diagnostic
Multiple sampling and automated workflow for diagnostic devices.
### Electron microscopy
Flow control for biological observations in controlled flow conditions.
### Spectroscopy
Automated flow control for *in-situ* monitoring or sample preparation.
### Mass spectrometry
Online sampling for real-time analysis or sample preparation including filtration and dilution.
### Cell and gene therapy
Automated workflow applied to medical needs.
### Cosmetic
Flow control for testing and screening active ingredients.
### Quality control
Customed calibration devices for the quality control of your machines.
## A trusted partner for your microfluidic OEM system
Over the past 10 years, we’ve provided more than 1, 500 microfluidic OEM modules and systems to businesses worldwide. Our R&D team represents more than 30% of the company, leading us to earning more than 20 patents.
## 65
OEM/Industrial customers around the world
## 20
Patents put us at the forefront of innovation
## 15
Different fully integrated OEM systems developped
## 1500**+**
OEM systems and components delivered
## 10
Years of experience in OEM lab automation
## OEM customer case studies
Each customer is different and has specific challenges, and we take particular care to address them. Discover the story of our customers and the relationship we build with them in our [**customer case studies**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/).
- Case 1 – Sample delivery machine for an electron microscope
- Case 2 – Drug testing machine
### Context
A leading electron microscopy group wanted to add an automatic sampling system to their standard imaging platforms as a value-added feature for their customers. Fluigent was approached to develop this complementary module due to our vast experience in engineering and manufacturing OEM microfluidic custom system.
### Solution
Fluigent’s expertise in custom microfluidics and fluid handling hardware &software provides technical support for all user experiments.
### Result
The sampling system automates sample volume delivery over lengthy imaging experiments while keeping the samples refrigerated. Shortly, additional functionality will also be integrated into the client’s software so the user can fully benefit from the whole platform in one place.
### Context
This company approached Fluigent for a fluid handling solution after researching microfluidic technology.
### Solution
While the client was focusing on developing their proprietary technology in biology, Fluigent’s team managed to create the components needed surrounding the chips, from the fluidic system to the instrument’s design.
### Result
This result enables users to use multiple microfluidic devices at the same time with minimum prior training, providing an in vitro diagnostic test of precision medicine.
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies OEM Case Study: Microfluidic Drug Screening Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
## OEM microfluidic technologies
- [
### Microfluidic recirculation system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/)
- [
### Liquid Stirring Solutions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/liquid-stirring-solutions/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Microfluidic Temperature Control module
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-temperature-control-module/)
- [
### Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Management Unit
P-OEM
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/p-oem/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
OEM Fluigent PX
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
- [
### Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry
OEM microfluidic electric rotary valve with multi-port (Fluigent M-X)
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
FS Series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Accessories
- [
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic OEM Devices
---
### [LineUp P-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/lineup-p-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Alginate tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/alginate-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [PLGA station tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/plga-station-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [RayDrop Single Emulsion tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/raydrop-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Bottle-CAP Kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/bottle-cap-2-port-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [PDMS Drop-seq chip for Drop-seq experiments](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/drop-seq-chip/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Single-cell RNA-sequencing** (scRNA-seq) has revolutionized biomedical research by enabling the in-depth analysis of cell-to-cell heterogeneity of tissues with unprecedented resolution. Among several existing [droplet-based](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) approaches, the[ **Drop-seq method**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/), based on the generation of [water-in-oil emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/), has emerged as one of the most widely used systems.
**The single-cell sequencing device** is a low-cost, high-throughput platform to profile **thousands of cells by encapsulating them into individual droplets**. Uniquely barcoded mRNA capture microparticles and cells are coconfined through a microfluidic device within the droplets where they undergo cell lysis and RNA hybridization. After breaking the droplets and pooling the hybridized particles, reverse transcription, PCR, and sequencing in single reactions allow to generate data from thousands of single-cell transcriptomes while maintaining information on the cellular origin of each transcript. [**More details about the mechanism and application of Drop-seq**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/).
## What is PDMS and why use it for Drop-seq chip?
[PDMS is used to fabricate microfluidic devices](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/) (single layer and bilayer) and micro-imprint stamps. Two different types are commonly used by researchers for these applications: PDMS RTV-615 and PDMS Sylgard 184.
- It is deformable, which allows the integration of microfluidic valves using the deformation of PDMS micro-channels, its use to detect very low forces (biomechanics interactions from cells)…
- It is easy to mold. The PDMS can mold structures at high resolutions. Also, PDMS bonds tightly to glass or another PDMS layer with a simple plasma treatment.
- It is inexpensive compared to other materials.
- It is generally biocompatible.
## Features of Drop-seq chip
### Dedicated to Drop-seq
Each Droplet Generation Device is based on the design recommended in the latest McCarroll lab Drop-seq protocol, ensuring the best chances of success.
### More than 22 experiments per chip
22 Droplet Generation Devices per Chip Provides value for money in a chip that lasts. When the life of one device is depleted, simply move on to the next one. Besides, our drop-seq chip rapidly creates libraries ready for high throughput sequencing.
### Efficient production of transcript libraries
Superior design promotes optimal mixing of component fluids, thereby minimizing bead shearing or premature lysis of cells and mRNA release.
Libraries from each cell are uniquely bar coded and they can practically barcode over a million cells per experiment.
The library generation and bar coding workflow is fast, simple, rugged and robust.
## Drop-seq Applications
### Identification of cell subpopulations
One of the main applications of Drop-seq chip is in the study of cell populations and the identification of cell subpopulations. By analyzing the transcriptomic profiles of individual cells, researchers can identify cells with similar gene expression patterns and classify them into subpopulations. This can be useful in understanding the diversity and function of cells in complex tissues, such as the brain or the immune system.
### Cell differenciation analysis
Another application of Drop-seq is in the study of developmental processes. By isolating and sequencing individual cells at different stages of development, researchers can understand how gene expression changes over time and how cells differentiate into different cell types. This can provide insight into how organisms develop and how different cell types are formed.
### Cancer research
The drop-seq chip has also been used in the field of cancer research, where it can be used to identify subpopulations of cancer cells with distinct gene expression patterns. This can help to understand the heterogeneity of cancer and to identify potential targets for therapy.
Furthermore, Drop-seq has been applied in several other fields such as:
- **Immune function:** Drop-seq has been used to study the immune system by isolating and sequencing individual immune cells. This can help to understand the diversity and function of immune cells, such as T cells and B cells, and how they respond to different pathogens.
- **Stem cells:** the single-cell sequencing device has been used to study stem cells and their potential to differentiate into different cell types. By isolating and sequencing individual stem cells, researchers can understand how gene expression changes as stem cells differentiate and how this process is regulated.
- **Novel cell types:** The drop-seq chip has been used to identify novel cell types in complex tissues, such as the brain. By analyzing the transcriptomic profiles of individual cells, researchers can identify cells with distinct gene expression patterns that may represent novel cell types.
- **Microbiome:** Drop-seq has been used to study the gut microbiome by isolating and sequencing individual gut bacteria. This can help to understand the diversity and function of gut bacteria and how they interact with host cells.
Overall, the single-cell sequencing device is a powerful tool for **studying cell populations** and **understanding the diversity and function of cells at a single-cell resolution**. It has a wide range of applications in many different fields, from understanding the function of cells in complex biological systems to **identifying novel cell types and drug resistance.**
## Specifications
- Chip design
- Drop seq package setup
### Chip Design
### Drop seq package setup
---
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Drop-seq chip datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/drop-seq-chip-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual McCarroll Drop-seq protocol Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/mccarroll-drop-seq-protocol/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Macosko Drop-seq article Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/macosko-drop-seq-article/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## Related products
- [
### Drop-Seq Pack
Start Drop-Seq experiments
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/drop-seq-package/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
**Catégories de produit:** Droplet Generation Microfluidic Chips
---
### [Bubble trap kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/bubble-trap-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Specifications:
- Sturdy construction (PVC/PTFE)
- Compatible with pressures up to 2 bar
- Supports flow rates up to 5 mL/min
- Utilizes standard 1/4’’-28 fittings
## Contents:
- Bubble Trap (x1)
- Membrane (x3)
- 1/4-28 Flat-Bottom for 1/16” OD Tubing and ferrule (x2)
- FEP Tubing 1/16” OD x 0.020” (508µm) ID (1m)
## Considerations:
- This item is not autoclavable.
- Avoid using this item with organic solvents to prevent potential leakages.
- The longevity of the membrane depends on the type of fluids used.
## Related Products
- [
### Bubble Trap
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- [
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
- [
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
- [
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
- [
### Fluid Degassing Device for Microfluidic System
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device/)
- [
### RayDrop Single Emulsion tubing & fitting kit
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/raydrop-tubing-fitting-kit/)
- [
### Double emulsion tubing & fitting kit
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/double-emulsion-tubing-fitting-kit/)
## Related content
- [
### Microbubble formation using the RayDrop
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/)
- [
### A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [
### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [
### Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [
### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [
### Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Easy droplet generation chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the chip
### Large droplet range
Using the droplet generation chip, you can generate water-in-oil droplets with diameters ranging from 20 µm to over 100 µm.
### Higher generation rate
Using the best configuration, droplets can be generated at a frequency of up to 4 000 Hz (out of the droplet starter pack)
### User friendly
No complex connectors, microscope slide dimensions, and 20 µm, 50 µm, and 100 µm markers on the PDMS Droplet Chip to determine droplet size.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
## How does generation of monodisperse droplets work?
Droplet generation in a microfluidic chip can be achieved using different geometries. With the EZ Drop droplet generation chip, a flow-focusing design is used. A channel brings the dispersed phase (water) towards an intersection, where 2 lateral channels, perpendicular to the dispersed phase, supply the continuous phase (oil). The oil pinches the water on both sides, and the combined effects of viscous forces and surface tension result in the formation of a droplet.
This geometry allows the generation of highly monodisperse droplets with a large range of particle sizes and production frequency.
Various production regimes can be achieved using this geometry, allowing for more or less stable emulsions and specific droplet sizes:
- The dripping regime allows for generation of very monodisperse droplets with a diameter in the range of the channel’s width. In this case, the viscous shear forces dominate the droplet formation process.
- The jetting regime results in detachment of the droplet, not at the intersection, but later in the collection channel. In this case, the generated drops can be much smaller but are usually less monodisperse. Emulsions are more difficult to control and keep stable.
These 2 main droplet regimes can be obtained by changing the flow-rate ratio between the continuous phase and the disperse phase.
[More information about the types of droplet generators and water-in-oil emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
## Specifications
- Kit content
- Chip specifications
- Chip overview
- FAQ
**Content**
EZ drop chips x3**2 m tubing (250 µm ID; 1/32″ OD)****Sleeves x2**
**Dimensions**
**Channels cross-section at the junction**30 x 30 µm**Channel depth elsewhere**30 µm **Channel total length after the junction**6.60 mmChannel total length (inner to outer tubing)oil: 21 mm water: 13 mm
**Can I reorder the EZ drop chips alone?**
Of course, the chips can be ordered separately from the whole Droplet Starter Pack. We invite you to [get in touch with our sales representatives](mailto:contact@fluigent.com) or with your local distributor.
**Can I know the droplet size using pressure only?**
Yes, the size market at the nozzle are here to help you estimate the size of the droplets you are generating. The Droplet Starter Pack has been designed to have very stable flow-rates, as the microfluidic resistance is mainly within the chip. This means that the flow-rates will stay stable even with pressure control only, thus the droplet sizes.
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets EZ-drop datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/ez-drop-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Impedance Measurement of Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Droplet starter package datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/droplet-starter-package-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic Droplet Pack
Microfluidic Droplet Pack
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/starter-packages/droplet-starter-package/)
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Catégories de produit:** Droplet Generation Microfluidic Chips
---
### [Mechanical Stimulation Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/mechanical_stimulation_package/)
**Published:** September 19, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features of the Pack
### Complete System
All fluidic components are included
### Stability
Fluigent’s Push-Pull offers unprecedented performance in terms of stability and responsiveness
### Versatility
This pack can be connected to any mechanical stimulation chip design to fit your needs.
### Customization
We can adapt the pack to your custom mechanical stimulation microfluidic chip to fulfill your needs in terms of specific flow rates or pressures. The number of [Push-Pull](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/) and Flow UNITs can be adapted to your experiments.
## Related applications
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
## Key products in the Mechanical Stimulation Pack
- [
#### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
#### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
- [
#### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
#### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
#### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
**Figure 1 Complete setup of the Mechanical Stimulation Pack**
“The device is well-designed and allows for easy control of my microfluidic chips. What I like most is that you are independent of a computer and can directly control both positive and negative pressure.”
****Christoph Trenzinger – Stratec****
“The Fluigent LineUp series, including the new push-pull pump, enables precise and highly controlled aspiration and respiration of liquids. The setup allows us to further advance our research in both continuous flow and droplet microfluidics.”
******Prof. Jeroen Lammertyn, KU Leuven Belgium – Biosensors group.******
[Testimonials](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/)
## Applications of the Mechanical Stimulation Pack
At the tissue and body levels, mechanical cues play essential roles in various processes, including embryogenesis, tissue morphogenesis, vascular angiogenesis, tumor progression, and reproductive biology. They can be exerted in a continuous, temporary, cyclic, or pulsatile manner in the body.
Among the different mechanical cues, stretch and compression can be implemented by deforming PDMS membranes or hydrogel layers through application of positive or negative pressures with [Fluigent’s Push-Pull](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/) flow controllers. Compressive forces can thus be exerted on 3D cell cultures to expose cells to compressive mechanical cues. Specific microfluidic chip designs combined with pressure controllers can be used as a platform for mechanical stimulation of 3D cell culture within hydrogel matrices.
#### Create sophisticated multi-modal stimulation patterns
As an example, custom-built microfluidic chips connected to [Fluigent instruments](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/) enable homogeneous stretching (1), compressions (4), or more sophisticated stimulation patterns (2 and 3). (Paggi and al., 2020) Here, a [PDMS membrane](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) can be actuated by three independently pressurized chambers and a variety of programmable deflection patterns can be applied. As a result, various cell stimulation modalities can easily be created by tuning the pressure applied in the different chambers.
This platform was originally developed to reproduce [mechanical stimulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/how-to-reproduce-active-biomimetic-stimulation-in-vitro/) of cartilage (Paggi et al., 2020, 2022). However, this is a highly versatile system of great interest for modeling other types of tissues which also experience complex mechanical actuation patterns *in vivo*.
Using a custom-built chip coupled to Fluigent Push-Pull pressure controllers provides excellent pressure control and an immediate switching time response.
Our mechanical stimulation pack offers a user-friendly and programmable interface and allows accurate application of a variety of mechanical forces on hydrogel-imbedded cells.
## Read more about Mechanical Stimulation
[Read the Paper Highlight](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mechanical-stimulation-in-a-cartilage-on-chip/)
## Specifications
- Package Content
- Schematic
- Technical specifications
- Software
## **PRODUCTS**
Our Mechanical Stimulation Package contains the following :
LineUp Push-Pull Pressure and Vacuum controller (x3)LineUp LINK Module (software control) (x1)FLOW UNIT M (x1)LineUp Flow EZ Pressure controller (x1)P-CAP Series P-CAP series 15 mL (x2)
*Figure 2 Complete Schematic of the Mechanical Stimulation Package*
**FLUID HANDLING SYSTEM**
**Product****Part Number**LineUp Push-Pull Pressure and Vacuum controller ELUPPU001LineUp LINK Module (software control) LU-LNK-0002LineUp Flow EZ Pressure controller (x1)LU-FEZ-1000
**RESERVOIRS**
**Product****Part Number**2\*15 mL Pcap with 15 mL Falcon tubeP-CAP15-HP
**FLOW METERS**
**Product****Part Number**FLOW UNIT MFLU-M-D
**TUBING**
**Product****Part Number**Tubing and connection Kit Flow UNIT M CTQ-KIT-LQ2\*Tubing and connection Kit P-CAP 15 mL
FEP Tubing with an ID of 500 micronsCTQ-KIT-PC15
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets FLOW UNIT Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets Push-Pull Datasheet Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/push-pull-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Related products
- [
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Perfect organ-on-chip cell perfusion set
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
## Accessories
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Application Packs
---
### [Microfluidic Flow Sensor Hub](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flowboard/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Features
### Versatility
The Flowboard is compatible with all of our flow sensors (XS, S, M+, L+).
### Parallelization
Up to 8 flow sensors of various types can be connected at the same time. The flow sensor hub lets you monitor the flow-rate of several different kinds of liquids at the same time, allowing complex experiments to be carried out.
## Specifications
- Technical specifications
- Software
- Schematic
**HARDWARE SPECIFICATIONS**
**Dimensions**114 x 102 x 70 mm**Weight**478 g
**ELECTRONICAL SPECIFICATIONS**
**Power consumption**15 V =-= (100 mA)
**OxyGEN**
Control in real-time, protocol automation, data record and export ver. 2.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
---
**Software Development Kit**
Custom software application ver. 22.2.0.0 or more recent[See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual FlowBoard and FLOW UNIT+ User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flow-rate-platform-and-flow-unit-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual Flow-Rate Platform User Manual Download
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flow-rate-platform-user-manual/)
## Related products
- [
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Regulate negative and positive pressure
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- [
### Microfluidic In-Line Pressure Sensor
Microfluidic In-Line Pressure Sensor
See the offer](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/pressure-unit/)
## Accessories
- [
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
- [
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Bubble Trap
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
**Catégories de produit:** Microfluidic Sensors
---
### [2-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/2-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** July 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Aria single output tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/aria-single-output-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Aria replacement tubing kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/aria-replacement-tubing-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [FLOW UNIT XS tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/flow-unit-xs-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Disposable membranes for FLOW UNIT XS](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/disposable-membranes-for-flow-unit-xs/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Double emulsion tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/double-emulsion-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Drop-Seq tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/drop-seq-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Droplet kit (chips, tubing and fittings)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/droplet-kit-chips-tubing-and-fittings/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [FLOW UNIT L tubing and fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/flow-unit-l-tubing-and-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [FLOW UNIT S | M tubing & fitting kit (for 1/16 OD)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/flow-unit-s-m-tubing-fitting-kit-for-1-16-od/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [FLOW UNIT XL tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/flow-unit-xl-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Fluiwell-1C 15 mL tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/fluiwell-1c-15-ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Fluiwell 1-C 50 mL tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/fluiwell-1-c-50-ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Fluiwell 4-C tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/fluiwell-4-c-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [L-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/l-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [LineUp supply kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/lineup-supply-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [M-SWITCH tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/m-switch-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [MFCS series high pressure kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/mfcs-series-high-pressure-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [MFCS series low pressure tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/mfcs-series-low-pressure-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [P-CAP 2 mL tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/p-cap-2-ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [P-CAP 15 mL tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/p-cap-15-ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [P-CAP 50 mL tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/p-cap-50-ml-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [PRESSURE UNIT tubing & fitting kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/pressure-unit-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [FLOW UNIT S | M tubing & fitting kit (1/32 OD)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/flow-unit-s-m-tubing-fitting-kit-1-32-od/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [Bottle-CAP Kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/bottle-cap-2-port-tubing-fitting-kit/)
**Published:** October 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de produit:** Kits
---
### [(Patent pending) compact all-in-one pressure supply & pressure/flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/fluigent-technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
**Published:** May 13, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Technology description
### Fluigent’s most compact and miniaturized pressure-based liquid handling technology
It is well established that pressure-based flow control offers unequaled flow stability and response times. Most pressure controllers require a pressure source which is regulated.
Although an external pressure supply allows working over large pressure ranges (generally up to 7 bar) and high gas flow rates, it can be cumbersome, and integration into a device is challenging. Point of care devices needing a small footprint can have engineering challenges.
*Fig 1: (left) A pressure supply and pressure controller vs our new technology (right) Fluigent engineered technology*
Fluigent has developed a pressure-based technology that offers an integrated **pressure supply and control (positive and negative pressure)** in a light (< 170 g) and compact format (L\*l\*H = 7\*5\*4). The **technology** consists of a **uniquely engineered assembly** of **electronics**, **sensors** integrated with a micropump, and pneumatics to provide high performance.
*Fig 2: (left) Pneumatic schematic of a standard fluidic system using pressure to move fluids (right) Pneumatic schematic of Fluigent new technology*
### Portable or connected
The technology is powered by an embedded rechargeable battery to facilitate portability. It can support a **wide range of connections** (Wi-Fi, BLE, IoT, USB, industrial bus), and embedded protocols. For point-of-care applications, a touch screen can be developed based on your needs. A flow sensor can directly be connected to the engineered device.
## Fluigent expertise equals performance
### Unmatched pressure and flow stability
Fluigent’s i (patent pending) powerful pressure regulation algorithm is based on physical equations and self-learning routines that offer several benefits:
- No overshoot/undershoot, allowing for an immediate highly accurate and stable flow
- Useful over a wide pressure or vacuum range (up to 600 mbar, -400 mbar vacuum, standalone pressure/vacuum regulation capability)
- Adapts to any reservoir size
By directly connecting a flow rate sensor, it is possible to monitor or control flow rate in real time. The algorithm includes a continuous optimization of the parameters that allow it to adapt to the interactions between microfluidic channels in complex situations.
*Fig 3 Pressurization profile of a 50 mL reservoir as a function of time using Fluigents technology*
*Fig 4 Fluigents technology connected with a flow rate sensor for pressure based flow control*
### Stop & Go, pressure/vacuum capabilities
When using a gas micropump alone, pressure drops are very slow, as shown in Fig. 5 that compares Fluigent solution with a standalone gas micropump. In fact, it is possible to observe that the micropump will take more than a minute to reach zero pressure.
Fig 5 Pressure drop comparison between a standalone micropump and Fluigent technology
Fig 6 Pressure profile comparison between a micropump equipped with a leakage valve
Using a pressure leakage or a valve in complement to the pump is a way to circumvent this limitation. With the addition of a pressure leakage component, the pressure drop now takes about 5 seconds (see Fig. 6). However, adding such leakage components influence the overall performance: the maximum pressure that can be reached has now decreased of about 15% (from 375 mbar to 310 mbar illustrated in the graph Fig. 6).
To ensure excellent response time while guaranteeing the best performance, Fluigent developed a technology that makes use of proportional valves. Using this engineered solution, pressure drop takes less than a second, and the maximum pressure reachable has not deteriorated (see graph). This allows to perform operations that require fast response time, or require fast change between applied positive pressure and vacuum.
## Comparing with standard pressure control
**Compact pressure/flow control technology****Standard pressure controllers**
**(e.g. Fluigent PX, P-OEM, F-OEM)****Compactness**– All in one micropump for pressure source and control
– Optimized footprintNeed to be connected to an external pressure source and power supply**Pressure/flow stability**Excellent
(~0,3% on the measured value)Excellent
(< 0,1% on the measured value)****Pressure response time****Excellent (a few seconds)Excellent (a few seconds)****Gas flow rate****Up to 2 L/min depending on the model.
Examples:
– 2 L/min using a 0-200 mbar pressure range
– 750 mL/min using 0-380 mbar pressure range
150 mL/min using 0-800 mbar pressure rangeUp to 3.5 L/min depending on the model
Examples:
– 3.5 L/min using Fluigent
F-OEM 0-7000 mbar
– 800 mL/min using Fluigent
F-OEM 0-1000 mbar
– 550 mL/min using Fluigent
PX 0-1000 mbar****Pressure range****– Pressure: Up to 600 mbar (for a single pump)
– Vacuum: Up to -400 mbar– Pressure: Up to 7 bar
– Vacuum: Up to -800 mbar**Lifespan**~ 5 000 h (maintenance can be performed)Lifetime## Related Applications
Emerging point of care applications make use of more complex fluidic operations and require compact systems. Our technology is an excellent fit for such applications as it is fully connected and provides excellent fluidic performance while being compact.
- **Life Sciences – Point of Care testing and diagnostics:**
Point of Care (PoC) testing allows one to diagnose diseases at or near the patient site. Point of care tests such as blood analysis, glucose monitoring, infectious disease testing, cholesterol testing, or cardiac markers are marketed1. A new generation of point of care diagnostic devices has been recently developed for providing higher sensitivity diagnostics, such as nucleic acid amplification tests. These often require more bulky equipment as the internal technology is more advanced.
- **Environmental – water and soil analysis:**
Continuous monitoring of water resources such as freshwater, seawater, and, in particular, wastewater and drinking water, for human and animal consumption, is essential2. Conventional water monitoring is based on laboratory instruments that are generally sophisticated and expensive. As the equipment is not easily portable, samples can be compromised during travel. As an alternative, microfluidic-based portable devices have been developed for on-site analysis. Our engineered systems tackle these limitations by bringing a cost-effective solution with a highly reduced footprint.
- **Other Industrial applications:**
Complex pressure and flow distribution can be eliminated as the unit can be placed at the location where pressure, vacuum, or flow control is needed.
## References
1\. Sachdeva, S., Davis, R. W. & Saha, A. K. Microfluidic Point-of-Care Testing: Commercial Landscape and Future Directions. *Front. Bioeng. Biotechnol.* **8**, 1–14 (2021).
2\. Janire, S., Raquel, C.-C., R\_oisín, M. O. & Lourdes, Basabe-Desmonts Fernando, B.-L. Microfluidics and materials for smart water monitoring: A review. **1186**, (2021).
**Websites:**
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Key considerations for fluidic system integration Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
## Related products
## Accessories
- [
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
**Catégories de produit:** Fluigent Technologies
---
## Research Applications
### [Microfluidics for Cell Biology](https://www.fluigent.com/mikrofluidische-forschungsgerate/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## What are the advantages of microfluidics in biology?
The development of microfluidics has brought many advantages for biological research. Indeed, due to the miniaturization and the automation of the setups, the consumption of sample and reagent is largely decreased, the experiment times are considerably reduced and the global costs of the applications are minimized. Moreover, working with small quantities allows better carry out separations and detection with high resolution and sensitivity at reduced costs.
Finally, thanks to this new generation of techniques and [equipments](https://www.fluigent.com/research/), new capabilities are offered for biology research since microfluidics allows to obtain more accurate results, to reduce detection limits and even to perform multiple analyses simultaneously.
To learn more about it, feel free to reed our [white paper about microfluidic](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/ "white paper about microfluidic").
## Main applications of microfluidics in cell biology
### RNA and DNA Hybridization
For decades, in situ hybridization has been used with greater frequency to **capture** the **localization, structure and expression of specific DNA and RNA sequences** within tissues. The **high sensitivity and specificity of this technique** relies on the hybridization of labelled oligonucleotide probes to targeted DNA or RNA sequences within tissues. Chromosomal microdeletion, amplification, structure, translocation and expression can be easily detected.
Compared to PCR analysis, Northern Blotting or a DNA microarray performed on lysed cells, hybridization provides spatial information as specific RNA and DNA are detected within tissues. It has significantly improved gene mapping, cytogenetics and various diagnostic techniques (oncogenic, prenatal, viral infection, etc.).
Recently, with the use of microfluidic for cell biology, a temporal dimension was added to the technology, as it further evolved to be performed on living cells. The spatio-temporal expression, degradation and storage of RNA molecules can now be thoroughly investigated by real time imaging of the hybridization of labelled oligonucleotides in living cells.
### Drug Combination and Long-Term Perfusion
In various therapeutic areas (glaucoma, vascular, HIV, oncology), a combination of drugs is typically found to be more effective for disease treatment. Oncology, in particular, has paved the way for this approach. The emergence of **next-generation sequencing** technology profiling has revealed the heterogeneity in many cancers at the origin of the differential response to treatment. As a result, therapeutic strategies are evolving towards multi-targeted drug combinations that effectively inhibit the cancer cells and block the emergence of drug resistance while selectively incurring minimal side effects on healthy cells.
Drug combination therapy is not straight forward as in many cases the results do not equal the sum of the parts. Cross-reactions are observed and fall into 5 categories: low risk & synergy, low risk & no synergy, caution, unsafe, and dangerous. The contribution and dosage of each active molecule should be closely investigated in terms of dose, frequency and duration to evaluate the efficacy of the drug combination.
Therefore, microfluidics for cell biology holds great promise in cancer diagnosis and also serves as an emerging tool for understanding cancer biology. **Microfluidics can be a valuable tool in** [**cancer investigation**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/) **due to its high sensitivity, high throughput, less material-consumption, low cost, and enhanced spatio-temporal control.**
### Immunostaining
[**Immunostaining** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/immunostaining_package/)experiments are mult-istep protocols to detect specific antigens in biological samples. The sample is successively incubated or exposed to fixation agents, washing buffers, and probes.
In conventional protocols on petri dishes or well plates, fluid deliveries are performed manually using pipettes. Solutions are directly added to the sample.
Transferring protocols from a Petri dish to a microfluidic format usually requires some minor adjustments, as cells or tissue samples are exposed to solutions differently. Therefore, the use of microfluidic for cell biology provides many advantages by replacing the use of Petri dishes with **microfluidic chambers** (closed systems). Consequently, solutions cannot be deposited directly on the top of the cells but are perfused over the sample at a controlled flow rate, reaching all cells homogeneously. The use of a **rotary valve** with a perfusion system enables one to perfuse different solutions at given time points in the chip or chamber. In addition, [**automating the sequential delivery of solutions**](https://www.fluigent.com/de/?post_type=product&p=41242) **saves time and** [**avoids creating bubbles**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/) inside the chips by disconnecting and reconnecting the traditional pump to the chip.
## Resources
## How important is the microlfluidic flow control in cell biology?
In [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=drug+discovery), it‘s important to control the flow rate of the sample used. As multiple formulations are tested, experimenters must be able to control flow rate while keeping the same level control of fluid handling at each stage of the experiment. DNA and RNA hybridization are often performed under a microscope. Manual injection over a microscope can be risky for the following reasons:
- A touch of pipette cone can misplace the dish and misrecord the position
- Samples can be flushed away during pipetting
- Liquid can be spilled over the microscope
## Flow Controllers Available on the Market
### Syringe Pumps
Multiple flow control technologies are available for sub-millimeter range fluid management. Syringe pumps are commonly used for fluid control. However, in microfluidics, particularly in microfluidics for cell biology, the use of [syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) is often problematic because the flow is not constant. This discontinuity is due to the mechanical system that creates an oscillating flow.
### Manual Injection
Current methods for [**multiple fluid delivery**](https://www.fluigent.com/de/?post_type=product&p=41242), where microscopy techniques are simultaneously required and mostly made by manual pipetting action include , Immunolabeling, and DNA and RNA hybridization.. Manual injection can lead to uncontrolled and non-homogeneous fluid velocity, which can damage samples.
**Pipette** **Aria**Type of injections **Abrupt** injections (up to 1mL in few seconds)
**Disparate** injections
**Turbulent** flow **Smooth & controled** injections
**Identical** injections
**Laminar** flow Geometry at injecion tip **Conic** shape: Important **shear strain**
**Unhomogeneous** fluid velocity **Straight** shape: No modification at the injection tip
## Fluigent Pressure-Based Flow Control
As the demand for [**microfluidic pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/de/pressure-flow-controllers-de/) with higher flow stability, fast response time, versatility, and automation capabilities has increased, pressure controllers have become the device of choice for many users.
The working principle of such pumps is to pressurize the sample reservoirs to control the pressure drop between the inlet and the outlet of the microfluidic system. The responsiveness of the generated flow rate depends on the responsiveness of the pressure pump.
To overcome these issues, [**Fluigent’s Aria**](https://www.fluigent.com/de/?post_type=product&p=41242) **automates multiple fluid deliveries**. The sample is preserved as the flow rate is controlled. Reproducibility increases as inter and intra operator variability are eliminated.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/de/?post_type=product&p=41242)
## Discover Omi, Automated Organ-on-chip platform
Omi is an automated platform that helps reproduce the microphysiological behavior of organs inside microfluidic chips. It is compatible any type of chips to sustain different cell culture types or organ on chip models (Gut, Skin, Liver…)
[More information about Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
---
### [Microfluidics for Cell Biology](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## What are the advantages of microfluidics in biology?
The development of microfluidics has brought many advantages for biological research. Indeed, due to the miniaturization and the automation of the setups, the consumption of sample and reagent is largely decreased, the experiment times are considerably reduced and the global costs of the applications are minimized. Moreover, working with small quantities allows better carry out separations and detection with high resolution and sensitivity at reduced costs.
Finally, thanks to this new generation of techniques and [equipments](https://www.fluigent.com/research/), new capabilities are offered for biology research since microfluidics allows to obtain more accurate results, to reduce detection limits and even to perform multiple analyses simultaneously.
To learn more about it, feel free to reed our [white paper about microfluidic](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/ "white paper about microfluidic").
## Main applications of microfluidics in cell biology
### RNA and DNA Hybridization
For decades, in situ hybridization has been used with greater frequency to **capture** the **localization, structure and expression of specific DNA and RNA sequences** within tissues. The **high sensitivity and specificity of this technique** relies on the hybridization of labelled oligonucleotide probes to targeted DNA or RNA sequences within tissues. Chromosomal microdeletion, amplification, structure, translocation and expression can be easily detected.
Compared to PCR analysis, Northern Blotting or a DNA microarray performed on lysed cells, hybridization provides spatial information as specific RNA and DNA are detected within tissues. It has significantly improved gene mapping, cytogenetics and various diagnostic techniques (oncogenic, prenatal, viral infection, etc.).
Recently, with the use of microfluidic for cell biology, a temporal dimension was added to the technology, as it further evolved to be performed on living cells. The spatio-temporal expression, degradation and storage of RNA molecules can now be thoroughly investigated by real time imaging of the hybridization of labelled oligonucleotides in living cells.
### Drug Combination and Long-Term Perfusion
In various therapeutic areas (glaucoma, vascular, HIV, oncology), a combination of drugs is typically found to be more effective for disease treatment. Oncology, in particular, has paved the way for this approach. The emergence of **next-generation sequencing** technology profiling has revealed the heterogeneity in many cancers at the origin of the differential response to treatment. As a result, therapeutic strategies are evolving towards multi-targeted drug combinations that effectively inhibit the cancer cells and block the emergence of drug resistance while selectively incurring minimal side effects on healthy cells.
Drug combination therapy is not straight forward as in many cases the results do not equal the sum of the parts. Cross-reactions are observed and fall into 5 categories: low risk & synergy, low risk & no synergy, caution, unsafe, and dangerous. The contribution and dosage of each active molecule should be closely investigated in terms of dose, frequency and duration to evaluate the efficacy of the drug combination.
Therefore, microfluidics for cell biology holds great promise in cancer diagnosis and also serves as an emerging tool for understanding cancer biology. **Microfluidics can be a valuable tool in** [**cancer investigation**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/) **due to its high sensitivity, high throughput, less material-consumption, low cost, and enhanced spatio-temporal control.**
### Immunostaining
[**Immunostaining** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/immunostaining_package/)experiments are mult-istep protocols to detect specific antigens in biological samples. The sample is successively incubated or exposed to fixation agents, washing buffers, and probes.
In conventional protocols on petri dishes or well plates, fluid deliveries are performed manually using pipettes. Solutions are directly added to the sample.
Transferring protocols from a Petri dish to a microfluidic format usually requires some minor adjustments, as cells or tissue samples are exposed to solutions differently. Therefore, the use of microfluidic for cell biology provides many advantages by replacing the use of Petri dishes with **microfluidic chambers** (closed systems). Consequently, solutions cannot be deposited directly on the top of the cells but are perfused over the sample at a controlled flow rate, reaching all cells homogeneously. The use of a **rotary valve** with a perfusion system enables one to perfuse different solutions at given time points in the chip or chamber. In addition, [**automating the sequential delivery of solutions**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) **saves time and** [**avoids creating bubbles**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/) inside the chips by disconnecting and reconnecting the traditional pump to the chip.
## Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Cancer-on-Chip: Modeling the Tumor Microenvironment with Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/cancer-on-chip-models/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Biomechanics of Perfused Kidney-on-Chip Model: Effects of Shear Stress and Pressure Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/biomechanics-of-perfused-kidney-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Organ-on-chip Platforms in Modern Drug Development and Testing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organ-on-chip-in-drug-development/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Role of Microfluidics in Advanced Organoid Modeling: from Static to Dynamic Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## How important is the microlfluidic flow control in cell biology?
In [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=drug+discovery), it‘s important to control the flow rate of the sample used. As multiple formulations are tested, experimenters must be able to control flow rate while keeping the same level control of fluid handling at each stage of the experiment. DNA and RNA hybridization are often performed under a microscope. Manual injection over a microscope can be risky for the following reasons:
- A touch of pipette cone can misplace the dish and misrecord the position
- Samples can be flushed away during pipetting
- Liquid can be spilled over the microscope
## Flow Controllers Available on the Market
### Syringe Pumps
Multiple flow control technologies are available for sub-millimeter range fluid management. Syringe pumps are commonly used for fluid control. However, in microfluidics, particularly in microfluidics for cell biology, the use of [syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) is often problematic because the flow is not constant. This discontinuity is due to the mechanical system that creates an oscillating flow.
### Manual Injection
Current methods for [**multiple fluid delivery**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/), where microscopy techniques are simultaneously required and mostly made by manual pipetting action include , Immunolabeling, and DNA and RNA hybridization.. Manual injection can lead to uncontrolled and non-homogeneous fluid velocity, which can damage samples.
**Pipette** **Aria**Type of injections **Abrupt** injections (up to 1mL in few seconds)
**Disparate** injections
**Turbulent** flow **Smooth & controled** injections
**Identical** injections
**Laminar** flow Geometry at injecion tip **Conic** shape: Important **shear strain**
**Unhomogeneous** fluid velocity **Straight** shape: No modification at the injection tip
## Fluigent Pressure-Based Flow Control
As the demand for [**microfluidic pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) with higher flow stability, fast response time, versatility, and automation capabilities has increased, pressure controllers have become the device of choice for many users.
The working principle of such pumps is to pressurize the sample reservoirs to control the pressure drop between the inlet and the outlet of the microfluidic system. The responsiveness of the generated flow rate depends on the responsiveness of the pressure pump.
To overcome these issues, [**Fluigent’s Aria**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) **automates multiple fluid deliveries**. The sample is preserved as the flow rate is controlled. Reproducibility increases as inter and intra operator variability are eliminated.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
## Discover Omi, Automated Organ-on-chip platform
Omi is an automated platform that helps reproduce the microphysiological behavior of organs inside microfluidic chips. It is compatible any type of chips to sustain different cell culture types or organ on chip models (Gut, Skin, Liver…)
[More information about Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
---
### [Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
[Organ-on-a-chip (OOAC)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) is the concept of **mimicking the organ-level function** of human physiology or disease using cells inside a [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/). [Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) provides the unique ability to control the cellular microenvironment with high spatiotemporal precision and to present cells with mechanical and biochemical signals in **a more physiologically relevant context**. The ability to manipulate micro-liter volumes of liquids has made these models a platform where scaling and dynamic crosstalk between cells can be achieved.
[Microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) can now use geometries and structures to permit the use of physiological length scales, concentration gradients, and the mechanical forces generated by fluid flow to mimic the [in vivo microenvironment](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/) experienced by cells. These [biomimetic](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/how-to-reproduce-active-biomimetic-stimulation-in-vitro/) platforms overcome many of the drawbacks encountered with conventional tissue culture models.
## Applications of OOAC cell culture
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/)### Therapy development
[Organ-on-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) cell culture platforms have proven potential in providing **tremendous flexibility and robustness** in drug screening and development by employing engineering techniques and materials. More importantly, there is a clear upward trend in studies that utilize human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSC) to **develop personalized tissue or organ models**. For this purpose, the use of [**cell culture chips** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)allows users to study complex culture configurations by joining a culture well with a microfluidic channel via a porous membrane. This is the optimal device for Air Liquid Interface (ALI) culture, endothelium/epithelium barrier and crosstalk studies.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mechanical-stimulation-in-a-cartilage-on-chip/)### Drug discovery
The development of emerging *in-vitro* tissue culture platforms can be useful for **predicting the human response to new compounds**. Recently, several *in-vitro* tissue-like microsystems, also known as “[organ-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) studies”, have emerged to provide new tools for **better evaluating the effects of various chemicals on human tissue**.
Organ-on-chip cell culture models can therefore be used for accurate prediction and mechanistic investigation of **dose-limiting human toxicities of prospective drugs**, as well as for the exploration of new therapeutic approaches to mitigate the observed toxic effects. In the [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=drug+discovery) pipeline, predictions made by these models could inform and facilitate early efforts to **identify, modify and optimize lead compounds**, thereby developing safer drugs with an increased likelihood of success in clinical trials.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)### Regenerative medicine
The development of emerging *in-vitro* tissue culture platforms can be useful for **predicting the human response to new compounds**. Recently, several *in-vitro* tissue-like microsystems, also known as ‘[organ-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) studies’, have emerged to provide new tools for **better evaluating the effects of various chemicals on human tissue**.
Organ-on-chip cell culture models can therefore be used for accurate prediction and mechanistic investigation of **dose-limiting human toxicities of prospective drugs**, as well as for the exploration of new therapeutic approaches to mitigate the observed toxic effects. In the [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=drug+discovery) pipeline, predictions made by these models could inform and facilitate early efforts to **identify, modify and optimize lead compounds**, thereby developing safer drugs with an increased likelihood of success in clinical trials.
## Omi, the new automated organ-on-chip platform
Discover [Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/), the new automated platform for OOAC applications developed by Fluigent. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, this platform will enable you to carry out any perfusion protocol. It has the ability to **customize and automate any protocol,** including simple perfusion, recirculation, sampling and injection. It meets the needs of beginners in organ-on-chip cell culture research and advanced organ-on-chip researchers looking for automation and reproducibility.
This versatile, automated organ-on-a-chip platform can perform **long-term OOAC cell cultures** under flow to [control shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) conditions. Its two-hour battery life and WiFi connectivity ensure **easy, intuitive control**. It can be easily transported from incubator to microscope for live cell imaging while maintaining cell perfusion under battery power. You can also monitor your experiment from anywhere using the Omi app.
## Towards the next generation of organ-on-a-chip cell culture platforms
Fluigent and Beonchip are partnering to offer a complete solution for organ-on-chip cell culture.
This webinar will first introduce Beonchip, their chips and the numerous applications that can be performed with them.
The second part will focus on flow control systems. Although often considered secondary, flow control is as important as chip design, as cells are highly sensitive to mechanical forces. Results demonstrate how cells are affected by peristaltic pumps compared to pressure control systems.
Organ-on-chip research is an emerging field that offers substantial benefits compared to conventional cell culture. In many labs, considerable effort is put into choosing the right chip design, but the impact of flow control is still undetermined.
It is our intent to create awareness of the importance of flow and its effects on studies.
Read our [**expertise page**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) to learn more about the benefits of flow control in cell culture and about our products and those of our partners (Beonchip), and to reach out to our team of experts to find the solution that best meets your needs.
## Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Assess Cell Proliferation Using Pressure as a Tool Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-as-a-tool-to-evaluate-cell-growth/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics MYOCHIP | H2020 European project Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/funded-research-program-participation/myochip-h2020-european-project/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Importance of fluid handling for organ-on-a-chip cell culture
In many labs, considerable effort is put into choosing the right chip design, but the impact of flow control is still undetermined. It is our intent to create awareness of the importance of flow and its effects on one’s studies.
Fluigent, in partnership with Beonchip, offers a wide range of cell culture chips according to the field of application: to study[ cell culture under flow](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/), to explore the crosstalk between different 2D and 3D cultures in [biomimetic environments](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/), to apply electrochemical gradients to [3D cell cultures](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/), and to study complex culture configurations by joining a culture within a microfluidic channel via a [porous membrane.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
Optimized cell culture activity: Constant perfusion enables the continuous renewal of nutrients and oxygen to promote[ cell growth and maintain optimal activity](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) during long-term cell cultures.
[More information on cell growth](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/)
**Biomechanics:** Organ on chip cell culture technology has paved the way for investigating the impact of mechanical strains in cell biology research by reproducing key aspects of an in-vivo cellular microenvironment. Combining microfluidics and microfabrication enables one to reproduce mechanical forces experienced by living tissues at the cell scale.
**Passive stimulation induced by shear flow:** Liquid flow usually induces shear stress on cells or tissues cultured on the device. This is called [shear flow](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/), and the effect is substantial on cell growth, phenotype, and genetic expression.
**Active mechanical stimulations originate from the function of the organ**. Organs like lungs, muscles and intestines are in active motion. Cells in those organs are mainly subjected to compression and stretching. Organ-on-a-chip cell culture can simulate these environments, allowing for more realistic and detailed results to be obtained.
[Active mechanical stimulations](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
**Biochemical studies:** Cells are constantly exposed to biochemical stimulation from the early embryonic stage to adult life. The spatiotemporal regulation of these signals is essential as it determines cell fate, phenotype, metabolic activity as well as pathological behaviors. The **fast response and high stability of Fluigent instruments** make them the **best solution available on the market** to reproduce these complex variations in-vitro.
[More information on Fluigent instruments advantages](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
Read our [expertise page](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/) to know more about the benefits of flow control in cell culture, learn more about our products and [those of our partners](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/) (Beonchip), and reach out to our team of experts to find a solution that best meets your needs.
## Flow control systems and Fluigent’s added value
Implementing perfusion and automated fluid delivery in organ on chip cell culture protocols offers major advantages. Compared to manual pipetting, Automation increases reproducibility, saves time, and improves the level of control in the experiment as all the parameters are tightly regulated (time of delivery, volume, and speed of injection).
Multiple flow control technologies are available for sub-millimeter range fluid management. As demand for [microfluidic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/ "microfluidic pumps") with **higher flow stability, fast response time, versatility, and automation capabilities have increased**, pressure controllers have become the device of choice.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/)
## Response time and stability
The working principle of such pumps is to pressurize the sample reservoirs to control the pressure drop between the inlet and the outlet of the microfluidic system. The responsiveness of the generated flow rate depends on the responsiveness of the pressure pump.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
---
### [Microfluidics for Cell Analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Main Applications of Microfluidics for Cell Analysis
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration/)### Biomechanics
An advantage of accurate fluid control is visible in [**micropipette aspiration**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration/). This method is a powerful, non-invasive technique to evaluate how biomechanical properties of single cells or tissues govern cell shape, cell response to mechanical stimuli, and transition from nontumorigenic to tumorigenic state or morphogenesis.
**See the** [**Micropipette Aspiration Package**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/micropipette-aspiration-package/).
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-platform-for-cell-and-particle-sorting-application/)### Cell Sorting
Many research applications call for sorting and isolating cells from a heterogeneous cell mixture. The use of microfluidics for cell analysis is useful for sorting cells with high accuracy and stability. The need to isolate rare cells such as circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from blood samples increases the demand for cell sorting devices. As opposed to conventional instrumentation, microfluidic devices for [**cell sorting**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/) are easy-to-use, smaller, versatile, and affordable.
Microfluidic cell sorting can be combined with additional fluidic operations for complete lab-on-a-chip applications, as well as for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. These devices make use of a wide range of techniques to sort cells with specific speeds and efficiencies. The possibility to easily tune the design of the microfluidic device allows for the sorting of cells of different sizes with throughput (flow rate) specific to the user’s need.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)### High-throughput single-cell analysis
The use of microfluidics for cell analysis offers one of the most promising approaches that not only provides information-rich, high-throughput screening, but also allows the creation of innovative conditions that are impractical or impossible by conventional means.
Analysis of healthy and diseased tissues, homogeneous at the macroscopic scale can reveal striking heterogeneities at cellular level. This variability is particularly well illustrated in polyclonal tumors, which constantly undergo mutations. In this respect, [single cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/) is necessary to fully capture the complexity of such tissues.
## Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Micropipette aspiration of cells and tissues Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Single cell sorting of Fluorescent Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-platform-for-cell-and-particle-sorting-application/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Impedance Measurement of Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
## Microfluidics for Cell Analysis Experiments and Fine Fluid Control
### Single-cell analysis
[Single-cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/) allows one to study tissues at single-cell level. It has an impact on drug discovery, such as in the case of tumor tissues, which, being composed of populations of different cellular mutations, is important to have the ability to test different drugs in each cell to understand their efficacy.
Working at cellular scale equally exposes many variations in gene expression: from specific biomarkers to insignificant delays in gene expression. High throughput analysis is then needed to multiply the number of profiled cells and discriminate relevant biomarkers from intrinsic population noise.[Droplet microfluidics ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)is particularly well suited and extensively used for high throughput single-cell analysis: individual cells are isolated and confined at high speed in pico-volumes to analyze biological processes at the cellular level. In this context, having a precise control of the flow is a key parameter to have reproducible results.
### Biomechanical studies
The application of microfluidics for cellular analysis is a useful tool for [evaluating, monitoring and controlling](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-as-a-tool-to-evaluate-cell-growth/) chemical or biological events for cell detection and sorting. Cell detection is generally performed using optical methods such as FACS (Fluorescent Activated Cell Sorting). Flow cytometry is the technique used to detect and measure physical and chemical characteristics of a population of cells or particles. This technique is widespread for cell analysis (size, shape, and granularity).
### Cell sorting
Microfluidic-based cell sorting holds promise in both academic research and industrial settings.
Microfluidic chips offer great modularity, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. This, together with their small size, makes them one of the main rivals to currently available commercial cell sorters, both in the research and biomedical sectors.
Cell sorting on microchips provides numerous advantages over conventional methods by reducing the size of necessary equipment, eliminating potentially hazardous aerosols, and simplifying the complex protocols commonly associated with cell sorting.
## Flow control systems available for microfluidic applications
The use of microfluidics in cell analysis allows one to manage control of the flow, thus having a great control over the forces applied to the cells. This allows one to obtain results in a short time with high reproducibility and precision.
Multiple [flow control technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) are available for sub-milliliter range fluid management. Designing reliable and functional microfluidic systems requires knowledge of the available liquid transfer solutions.
## Pressure control for better results
[Syringe and peristaltic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) were the first instruments to be used as they were the two available solutions on the market. As demand for microfluidic pumps with [higher flow stability](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/), fast response time, versatility and automation capabilities has increased, [pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) have become the device of choice. Fluigent offers a wide range of solutions in this area.
With pressure-based pumps, the working principle is to pressurize the sample reservoirs and control the pressure drop between the inlet and the outlet of the microfluidic system. The responsiveness of the flow rate depends on the responsiveness of the pressure pump.
---
### [Microfluidics for Droplet Generation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What can droplet microfluidics be used for?
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
### Drug delivery
In recent years, [**biodegradable microcapsules/microparticles** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)have gained widespread importance in the delivery of bioactive agents. Polymer-based microcapsules/microparticles are one of the most successful new drug delivery systems.
They can be used in various areas such as long-term release systems, vaccine adjuvant, and tissue engineering.
[Droplet-based microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) produce highly monodispersed droplet and [**microcapsule/microparticle production** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)opposed to batch emulsion methods and provide an “In-line” continuous droplet production process.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
### Formulation
The encapsulation of active ingredients to create flavors or fragrances for cosmetics and food products is a key part of their formulation. A challenge of droplet generation applied to encapsulation is to prevent the leakage of the encapsulated species.
The possibility to encapsulate these compounds allows users to control the release of the compound and improve pharmacokinetics. Modern drug encapsulation methods allow efficient loading of drug molecules inside nanoparticles, thereby reducing systemic toxicity associated with drugs.
[**Targeting nanoparticles**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/) can enhance the accumulation of nanoencapsulated drugs at the diseased site.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
### Next generation sequencing (NGS)
Encapsulation of a single cell inside a droplet increases NGS efficiency. The ability to study cells at single cell level using [**droplet based systems**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/) combined with NGS techniques allow for the sequencing of mRNA from a large number of cells.
The power of this technology, combined with droplet generation, resides in the fact that during sequencing, one can distinguish where the original information came on a cell-to-cell basis. This allows one to make a gene expression map of the cell, or even to distinguish cell populations within a tissue.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
### Drug discovery
*In-vitro* cell culture is a fundamental component of biological production systems and biotechnological research. The ability to grow cells outside of their natural environment offers many industry solutions from the high quantity production of enzymes to cell toxicity studies and drug discovery.
Droplet generationallows one [**to encapsulate single or multiple cells**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)into tiny droplets of pL volume which are generated at a rate of approximately one thousand per second.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
### Diagnostics
A key measurement challenge in diagnostic research involves identifying small changes in nucleic acid sequences that are commonly associated with genetic diseases such as Down’s syndrome and many cancers.
[**Digital PCR (dPCR)**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/) carries out a single reaction within a sample as standard PCR, however the sample is separated into a large number of partitions where reactions take place in each partition individually. This is an excellent solution to partition a sample, and dPCR technology that makes use of droplet microfluidics is often called [droplet digital PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/digital-pcr/) (ddPCR).
## How to control droplet size and volume using fluid handling technology ?
When it comes to [**particle or droplet generation**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/), having control of the fluid delivery system is important. During particle or droplet production, the flow rate of each phase must remain constant and stable to allow the production of monodisperse droplets.
The ability to control the flow rate of each phase allows for [**more control over the process**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/), precisely and easily regulating the size of the droplet or particle generated.
## Which flow control system to generate monodisperced droplet ?
Flow rate stability is critical for having **repeatable reactor volumes and reproducible results.** [Syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) are commonly used for generating droplets in microfluidic experiments. Depending on the model in use, **syringe pumps show limited flow control.**
As a consequence, the droplet size (proportional to the flow rate), is affected. The actual flow rate cannot be controlled with syringes or peristaltic devices. The flow rate value is displayed on the device, but no information on the time required for reaching a set flow rate is given.
The time for flow equilibrium may vary depending on the microfluidic setup, and flow rate can oscillate depending on the instrument. An alternative to syringe pumps for the generation of droplets are[ **pressure-based flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). These show high-precision flow control and fast response times. [**Read more** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/)on the expertise page.
## How are liquid droplets created with microfluidics pressure controllers?
To underline the importance of pressure control, our application note compares the production of [water-in-oil emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/) using microfluidic syringe pumps to [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). **Droplet size, stability**, and the **time required** to reach several droplet diameters are **dependent on each instrument**.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers)
[Read the application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/microfluidic-droplet-generation-using-different-flow-controllers.pdf)
## Resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Cambridge: Microfluidic GUV production and testing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Raydrop | A new droplet generation device based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/the-raydrop-a-new-droplet-generation-device-based-on-non-embedded-co-flow-focusing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microparticles Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
---
## Industrial Applications
### [Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
**Published:** October 18, 2023
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Advantages of automating fluidic valves in industrial processes
Microfluidic valves help to control the flow of small volumes of fluid. This control allows microfluidic devices to become more complex, with a higher degree of automation depending on the need of the application. In analytical and diagnostic devices, for example, these valves control the flow of neutral and aggressive fluids, such as blood, chemicals, and buffers.
## Starting fluid automation and valve management with the F-OEM
The video below illustrates the fast and automated sequential fluid injection of the different dyed solutions that can be implemented using the [F-OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/). Figure 2 shows the measured flow rate and implemented pressure as a function of time.
All the switch events are also shown and correspond to the peaks on the fluidic line. During the switch events, the applied pressure is automatically regulated to keep a fluid flow rate of 500 µL/min during the whole protocol. Peaks are inherent to the valves switching due to their respective internal volumes.
Figure 1 Demonstration of fluid sequential injection using color dyes
Figure 2 Flow rate and adjusted pressure as a function of time Fluid management using the F OEM pressure controllers and 2 X and M X microfluidic valves Flow rate is set at 500 µLmin
The targeted flow rate of 500 µL/min is kept constant during the whole protocol, with peaks < 5 s that are inherent to the fluidic system and correspond to the fluidic switches. At regions without peaks, the estimated flow rates average, standard deviation, and related accuracy are respectively 500,5 µL/min, +/- 1,5 µL/min, and 0.3%. Fast pressurization and depressurization are possible via Fluigent pressure controllers integrated into the [F-OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/).
## From sample preparation to cell sorting
- **Electric rotary valves** are used to sequentially inject liquids or dispatch liquids in several paths.
These valves can be used in high-precision fluorescence microscopy, where a large number of labels are processed. Another example is microfluidic-based analytical devices including spectroscopy, photometry, separation, and reactors. Those applications usually require precise sample preparation, and the ability to automatically switch from analytical samples to buffers while minimizing the amount of reagents used.
- **2/2 or 3/2-way valves** are used to perform fluid separation. They are useful in cell sorting applications where samples containing a detected cell or analyte of interest can be separated from the main flow path for further investigation. It is also widely used for cleaning and waste handling in analytical equipment.
Figure 3: Examples of applications using fluidic valve automation. Cell sorting (up) and sample preparation (down).
## How to efficiently integrate your microfluidic modules?
### Component integration and time to market
Developing a fluidic system and integrating valve automation requires fluid handling components (pressure controllers, syringe pump, etc.), fluidic valves, and related electronics and software for communication and automation. To ensure the proper functioning of the fluidic system and the success of the application, seamless coordination between all the fluidic components is required. The automation and creation of the interface can be costly, time-consuming, and resource-dependent, which would ultimately impact time to market and affect the final system reliability.
### The F-OEM: A turnkey solution for efficient prototyping and integration
Fluigent develops and provides turnkey fluid management systems, consisting of pressure sources, pressure-based flow controllers, and fluidic electronic valves dedicated to microfluidics. When using Fluigent systems, users will:
- Gain development time and reliability as ourvalves include the necessary electronics to communicate with other Fluigent components
- Experience fast prototyping and integration through Fluigent’s OxyGEN software and SDK
- Increase compactness as ourvalve module is integrated into the [F-OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/) pressure controller
**The system used below consists of the following components:**
- F-OEM with its subcomponents (integration board, OEM pressure controller, valve module)
- Fluigent [M-X](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/): Rotary multi-port OEM microfluidic valve
- Fluigent [2-X](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-2-x/): 3-port/2-way bidirectional OEM microfluidic valve
- FS Series fluidic OEM flow sensor
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/)
[
### 3-port/2-way bidirectional valve for industry
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-2-x/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
Below is a typical fluid handling setup that can be used for applications such as sample preparation, multiplexing, pipetting, and sorting. One pressure controller is used to pressurize 3 reservoirs containing specific solutions, that will be injected in turn and sorted using the M-X and 2-X valves.
*Figure 4: Fluigent’s microfluidic OEM system dedicated to fluidic valve automation consisting of the F-OEM pressure controller, and the 2-X and the M-X valves*
## Fluigent software for complete automation
### Quick testing using OxyGEN software
For starting immediate tests with prototypes, Fluigent’s OxyGEN software is available for fluid management. All components can be driven using the “live control” tab, and more complex protocols can be computed on the “Protocol tab” for starting fluid automation (figure 5).
In typical valve automation, protocols such as in sample preparation, sorting, or cleaning several fluids are injected sequentially, while the main fluidic line can be switched to collect samples or manage waste.
We here simulate a typical sequential fluid injection protocol by injecting 3 dye solutions from 3 separate reservoirs.
Figure 5 shows the protocol implemented on OxyGEN. The implemented flow rate is 500 µL/min during the whole experiment. We performed the following sequence:
- Reset all pressures
- Flow rate at 500 µL/min
- Set 2-X at position 1 (ensures right positioning at protocol start)
- Set M-X at position 1, wait for 30 s
- Set M-X at position 2, wait for 30 s
- Set M-X at position 3, wait for 30 s
- Set 2-X at position 2
- Set 2-X at position 1
- Set M-X at position 1, wait for 30 s
- Set pressure at 0 mbar
The video shows the protocol running. Protocol can be monitored during the entire process. Real time information on the flow rate, pressure, and valves position is available on the live control tab of OxyGEN software.
Figure 5 Snapshot of OxyGEN software illustrating a typical fluidic protocolFigure 6: Video of OxyGEN software
### Seamless integration through Fluigent SDK
When a protocol is fully validated, users can use Fluigent SDK, which consolidates all functions available in OxyGEN. This gives external applications the ability to integrate Fluigent devices.
The SDKhas been designed in several languages, including LabVIEW, C++, C#.NET, Python, and MATLAB. Below is the Python equivalent of the protocol implemented above in our OxyGEN software.
Figure 7 Snapshot of Fluigent SDK illustrating typical fluidic protocol
## Our fluidic modules can automate fluid tasks for milli and microfluidic applications
The results above demonstrate the capabilities of the [F-OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/) coupled to Fluigent’s [M-X](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/) and [2-X](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-2-x/) valves. Together, these devices produce high performance fluid automation required for milli and microfluidic applications such as sample preparation, cell sorting, and general liquid handling.
## Related Resources & Expertises
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key considerations for fluidic system integration
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
---
### [Contamination-free Liquid Handling System](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
**Published:** February 27, 2023
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Introduction to flow sensing
### Why pressure-based flow control?
A highly stable and responsible flow rate is often a prerequisite for microfluidic applications. [OEM pressure-driven flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/) were developed to **eliminate syringe pump limitations**. They in fact can deliver truly pulsation-free flow, enabling **greater control accuracy** and homogeneity within experiments. In addition, pressure-driven flow control response times are several magnitudes faster than syringe pumps, streamlining the microfluidic process and making possible new flow control regimes.
### Sterility requirements and Flow Sensor as a game changer for microfluidic flow sensing
With the growth of biological applications that utilize **micro and millifluidics** such as cell cytometry or purification for sample preparation, drug screening, organoids, or organs on chips, the need for contamination-free liquid handling systems is expanding. Prior to now, there was no solution for measuring the flow rate in a non-invasive manner.
### High fluidic performance using Fluigent contamination-free flow control solution
Today’s Fluigent standard OEM contamination-free liquid handling system, which consists of a high-precision pressure controller and a Non-Invasive Flow Sensor, brings **excellent flow rate regulation** without needing fluid calibration. The NIFS allows **contactless live flow rate monitoring and regulation.**
## Contamination-free liquid handling system based on pressure-driven flow for microfluidic applications
### Components and setup
- **Non-Invasive Flow Sensor :** The OEM non-invasive flow sensor (NIFS) is dedicated to flow rate monitoring and control. When combined with [Fluigent pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)[\[1\]](#_msocom_1) [\[2\]](#_msocom_2) , it allows pressure-based flow rate control without fluid contact, and no liquid calibration needed.
- **Modular OEM Microfluidics Flow Controller – [F-OEM:](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)** High performance, efficiency, and wide pressure and flow rate ranges support the most demanding industrial applications, including microfluidic and nanofluidic applications (microchannels, nanochannels, capillaries, lab on a chip). The F-OEM is **a standalone, modular platform that will perform complex fluidic operations**.
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
The components used in this technical note are shown below. The F-OEM pressure controller (1) consists of an electronic board coupled with a pressure module. A pressure supply is connected to the F-OEM pressure module. The NIFS is pneumatically connected between the pressure manifold and its dedicated reservoir. Pressure pushes the liquid through the liquid tubing, which subsequently flows into the microfluidic chip dedicated for cell culture under perfusion.
ItemDescription1NIFS – Non Invasive Flow Sensor2F-OEM Pressure controller3P-CAP Reservoir4Microfluidic chip dedicated to cell culture under perfusion
## Fluigent’s dedicated algorithm and software for live liquid flow rate monitoring and control
With the use of an internally developed algorithm, liquid flow rate can be monitored and regulated through Fluigent [OxyGEN software and SDK](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/) for **full system integration**. To demonstrate the capabilities of our contamination-free liquid handling system based on pressure, flow rate steps and flow rate stability are explored for a range of different flow rates.
### Performance of Fluigent contamination-free flow control system
---
#### Flow rate range: a machine learning -based algorithm
The first test shows flow rate steps ordered using a time period of 45 s. Ordered flow rates are 100, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 500, 400, 300, 200, and 100 µL/min.
The figure 1 shows the regulated flow rate using the NIFS coupled with the F-OEM. The first flow rate command (100 µL/min) takes about 30 s to reach the targeted flow rate, with an intermediate learning pressure and flow, where the [algorithm](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/) «learns» from the measured flow rate or pressure couple the hydrodynamic resistance of the system. Through this learning, the following steps are accurately reached, possibly with minor iterations to adjust the targeted value. This behavior can be observed with the next targeted values. From the flow rate graph, we observe it takes < 10 s to reach the next flow rate. Note the liquid flow rate has physically reached the targeted value < 1 s after the pressure change (which can be shown by adding a flow sensor on the fluidic line).
Figure 1 Pressure based flow regulation using the NIFS
This behavior can be explained by a necessary smoothing step implemented into our algorithm that is based on average values of the gas flow rate that slightly virtually increases flow rate reading.
### Flow rate stability
---
#### Stability at 200 µL/min
**Flow rate stability** is studied for 10 min. The figure below shows both the regulated liquid flow rate and pressure using our contamination-free liquid handling system. Flow rate average and standard deviation are respectively 197.9 +/- 3.0 µL/min, securing a < 5% accuracy as mentioned on the NIFS datasheet. The results obtained make the **NIFS viable for a large scope of microfluidic applications** in this range of flow rates, notably cell cytometry, or for certain types of cells for perfusion.
Figure 2 Flow rate stability at 200 µLmin using the NIFS
#### Flow rate stability at 50 µL/min
The 5% accuracy specifications provided on the NIFS datasheet are ensured for flow rates ranging from 100 µL/min to 10 mL/min. It is however still possible to perform flow rate monitoring and control below 100 µL/min with our contamination-free liquid handling system with potentially degraded performance. This is illustrated in figure 3, where 50 µL/min flow stability is measured for more than 250 s. Flow rate average and standard deviation are respectively 52.4 +/- 2.8 µL/min. This makes the measurement slightly above the 5% accuracy provided on the 100 µL/min – 10 mL/min range, but can still be acceptable flow accuracy and precision for several microfluidic applications, especially for cell perfusion or other biological applications where sterility is a prerequisite. The NIFS coupled with a F-OEM is a contamination free liquid handling system, and is a great alternative to invasive systems where highly accurate flow is not mandatory. In addition, the technology is based on **gas flow rate measurements**, leading to minor gas flow rate instabilities, but do not have an impact and are not observed on the fluidic line.
Figure 3 Flow rate stability at 50 µLmin using the NIFS
## Conclusion
The use of our contamination-free liquid handling system consisting of the NIFS coupled with the F-OEM pressure controller is demonstrated in this technical note, achieving flow rate steps in a range of 100 – 600 µL/min and flow stability of 200 µL/min and 50 µL/min. Fluigent’s standard OEM pressure-based flow control solution, which consists of a **high-precision pressure controller** and a **Non-Invasive Flow Sensor**, brings great flow rate regulation **without fluid calibration**. The NIFS allows contactless live flow rate monitoring and regulation. This unique system combination offers the advantages of pressure-based flow control without the inherent limitations of inline microfluidic flow sensors.
## Related Expertises
- [
### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)
- [
### Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Flow Sensing Technologies, A Review](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-flow-sensing-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
- [
### A Microfluidic Pressure Controller Comparison for Your Ultimate Fluid Control System](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
---
### [Combining Microfluidics and Spectroscopy](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/microfluidics-and-spectroscopy/)
**Published:** June 11, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What Applications Can Microfluidics Be Combined With Spectroscopy?
**In-situ analysis** of biological samples or live visualization of kinetics is a common application of microfluidics combined with IR or Raman spectroscopy.
Analyzing In-situ with flow instead of static conditions brings many advantages. Controlling the flow allows easy knowledge of the time and space of the biochemical reaction. It can obtain several points of measure on a reaction in one experience for faster, more precise and easier results.
A modular fluidic system to follow reaction on chip under spectrometer is the future of in-situ analysis*.*
**Chemical reaction monitoring** with inline spectroscopy brings precise and quick information. Microfluidic flow minimizes the quantity necessary to be taken.
*Figure 1 Microfluidic system with a pressure controller in a spectrometer*
## How to Use Microfluidics in Spectroscopy
Spectroscopy can be combined with on-chip microfluidics for matter characterization, either in continuous flow or droplets. As the applications require an extremely precise flow rate, pressure controllers are a valuable alternative to syringe pumps. Pressure controllers also allow a bigger input volume, which can be a requirement for some applications.
[Fluigent products](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/ "Fluigent products") have been used in spectroscopic applications such as electrospray ionization in mass spectrometry (1). The flow stability provided by pressure controllers compared to other [microfluidics devices](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/) insures better results.
*Figure 2: comparison between an OEM syringe pump (grey) & an OEM pressure-based flow controller (blue)*
### Sample Preparation
An automated microfluidic sample preparation instrument can bring a spectroscopy experiment to the next level. Automated sampling from a microbioreactor allows for the continuous control of kinetics.
### Automated Inline Dilution and Filtration for Small Molecule Analysis
Inline dilution brings precision to analysis of biological samples such as enzymes. Diluting as close as possible to the measurement limits errors and preserves the biological integrity of the samples. With automation, the dilution can be continuous and increases the reproducibility of the results.
### Electrospray
Electrospray is a **mass spectrometry technique** that requires an extremely low and stable flow rate to enter the electrospray to ionize particles.
Using microfluidic pressure controller to control the flow rate is a cost-effective solution with many advantages. The pulseless flow rate and the volume of the sample bottles are advantagous compared to syringe pumps.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/illustration-spectroscopy-droplet.png)*Figure 3 Droplet generation for electrospray ionization*
## Apply Our Microfluidic Expertise to Your Spectroscopy Applications
### Pressures Controllers and OEM Parts
Our OEM pressure controllers are ready to use with a compact design for easy integration with your products. Benefits include:
- High-quality pressure control
- Pulseless and highly stable flow rate
- Contamination-free: not in contact with liquid
- Cost-effective: reduced reagent consumption
### Fully Customizable System
We offer custom microfluidic device development to provide the system you envision.
By partnering with us, customers benefit from **Fluigent’s portfolio of products**, [technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/ "technologies"), patents, and more than 15 years of experience with microfluidic technology. We combine our expertise and knowledge to design and manufacture the **highest quality** custom microfluidic devices. Partner with Fluigent to accelerate your product time to market.
- [
### From idea to production
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## Reference
Yu, C., Tang, F., Qian, X. et al. Multi-channel microfluidic chip coupling with mass spectrometry for simultaneous electro-sprays and extraction. Sci Rep 7, 17389 (2017).
## Related Expertises
- [
### Localization microscopy and flow control for multiplexing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### A Microfluidic Pressure Controller Comparison for Your Ultimate Fluid Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
---
### [Lokalisierungsmikroskopie und Flussratenkontrolle für Multiplexing ](https://www.fluigent.com/mikrofluidik-oem/oem-microfluidic-applications/localization-microscopy/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Unsere Lösung für Fluidikmanagement für Ihre Lokalisierungsmikroskopie-Anwendung
Die softwaregesteuerte, automatisierte und vollständig integrierte Lösung von Fluigent ist **das einzige kommerzielle System**, das sequenzielle Injektionen für Multiplex-Lokalisierungsmikroskopie bietet. Darüber hinaus bieten wir mit unserem Standardgerät für sequenzielle Injektionen, Aria, einen Anpassungsservice an, um Ihren Anforderungen zu entsprechen (Hardware, Software, Branding, usw.).
Zudem bieten unsere Lösungen für die sequenzielle Injektion folgende zusätzliche Vorteile:
- Automatisierung und flexible Konfiguration von Fluidiksequenzen
- Einfache Integration durch unsere Software und unser SDK
- Beste Leistung durch die druckgesteuerte Technologie von Fluigent
[Unser Angebot ansehen ](https://www.fluigent.com/de/microfluidic-oem/applications/lokalisierungsmikroskopie/#offer)
## Was ist Einzelmolekül-Lokalisierungsmikroskopie?
Die Einzelmolekül-Lokalisierungsmikroskopie (oft als SMLM bezeichnet) beschreibt eine Kombination aus leistungsstarken Imaging-Verfahren, die die räumliche Auflösung im Vergleich zu Standard-Mikroskopietechniken drastisch verbessern und Bilder biologischer Strukturen auf molekularer Ebene erfassen können1.
Bei der Einzelmolekül-Lokalisierungsmikroskopie werden einzelne fluoreszierende Moleküle rechnerisch lokalisiert, und die Lokalisierungen werden verwendet, um ein Bild mit Super Resolution zu erzeugen. Weitere Anwendung sind Oligo- und Refresh-STORM, DNA-PAINT, Multiplex-Antikörper-Markierung, Zellbiologie, neurowissenschaftliche Forschung.
## Warum wird die Mikrofluidik für SMLM verwendet?
Ein typischer Arbeitsablauf in der Einzelmolekül-Lokalisierungsmikroskopie umfasst die Fluoreszenzmarkierung, die Probenvorbereitung und die Bildaufnahme in tote und lebenden Zellen.
### 1- Erhöhung Anzahl der Markierungsziele
Gerade im Bereich der Lokalisierungsmikroskopie ist es schwierig viele Ziele gleichzeitig zu erfassen. Die sequenzielle Markierung mit Mikrofluidik ermöglicht es, eine größere Anzahl von Ziele zu behandeln.
### 2- Verringerung von Protokollfehlern und Gewährleistung der Reproduzierbarkeit
Die manuelle Injektion oder Standardpipettierung ist nicht nur extrem zeitaufwändig, sondern kann auch biologischen Proben für solche Anwendungen schaden:
- Ungleiche Injektionen erhöhen die Variabilität (5,7 % intraindividuelle Ungenauigkeit und 8,1 % interindividuelle Ungenauigkeit beim Pipettieren von 10 µL)
- Turbulenter Fluss kann die Probe beschädigen
- Das Berühren der Behälterseiten kann zu Kontamination führen
- Handhabungsfehler beim Pipettieren können zu Probenverlusten führen.
Mit Hilfe der Mikrofluidik können die oben genannten Einschränkungen überwunden werden. Die hochgradig kontrollierbare Durchflussrate im Mikroliterbereich (bis hinunter zu einigen nL/min, mit einer Genauigkeit von < 5 % m.v.) ermöglich eine vollständig automatisierte Anwendung.
Wichtige Entdeckungen durch Einzelmolekül Lokalisierungsmikroskopie
## Wie Fluigent die Lokalisierungsmikroskopie unterstützt
Der Aufbau eines mikrofluidischen Multiplexsystems für die sequentielle Markierung erfordert Fachwissen in den Bereichen mikrofluidisches Flüssigkeitsmanagement, Elektronik und Software, was einen hohen Bedarf an technischen Ressourcen, Zeit und Geld erfordert.
Abhängig von den physikalischen Parametern des Systems müssen die verschiedenen technologischen Komponenten wie die Flüssigkeitszufuhr, mikrofluidische Ventile, Elektronik und andere Geräte, passend zusammengestellt werden. Außerdem ist für eine automatisierte Flusskontrolle unsere Software erforderlich.
### 1- Fluigent hat kundenspezifische On-Demand-Multiplexing-Systeme und OEM-Automatisierungs-Workflows für die Lokalisierungsmikroskopie und die Bildgebung lebender Zellen entwickelt.
Diese Entwicklungen stehen Ihnen als modulare Bausteine zur Verfügung.
[Erfahren Sie mehr über die Projektanpassung](https://www.fluigent.com/de/industrie/industrie-produkte/full-customization/)
### 2- Verbessertes Flüssigkeitsmanagement durch Fluigents patentierte druckbasierte Flusskontrolle
#### Hohe Stabilität zur Gewährleistung der Lebensfähigkeit der Proben
Unsere Geräte sind mit der druckbasierten Flusssteuerungstechnologie von Fluigent ausgestattet. Mithilfe der druckgesteuerten Durchflussregelung wird die Probe gleichmäßig in ein mikrofluidisches System injiziert. Da es keine mechanischen Teile gibt, die mit den Flüssigkeiten in Berührung kommen, können Druckregler pulslose Flüsse erzeugen, die mit peristaltischen Pumpen oder sogar der genauesten Spritzenpumpe nicht erreicht werden können. Mit Fluigent-Druckreglern wird eine Druckstabilität von < 0,1 % CV erreicht. Dies ermöglicht ein neues Maß an Stabilität, das für neue Anwendungen erforderlich ist. Die nachstehenden Diagramme zeigen Perfusionsvergleiche zwischen Fluigent-Reglern und Schlauch- und Spritzenpumpen.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/aria-peristaltic.jpg)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/04/flow-settling-time-syringe-pump-vs-pessure-controller.png)Der Benutzer kann die Flussrate, das Volumen und den Zeitpunkt der Abgabe jeder Lösung unabhängig voneinander wählen. Anschließend führt das System das Protokoll selbstständig aus und kann für langfristige Prozesse stabil bleiben.
#### Durchflussratenmerkmale für Mikroskopie Anwendungen
Durch den Einbau eines Ein-Aus-Ventils in das Gerät wird sichergestellt, dass der Fluss gestoppt wird, wenn der Benutzer die Bildgebung anordnet. Wie die nebenstehende Grafik zeigt, wird bei Verwendung der Cut-Flow-Technologie die Flussrate sofort gestoppt, wenn das gewünschte Volumen injiziert wurde, wodurch Rückflüsse verhindert werden.
Durch die Verhinderung des Rückflusses während der Inkubationsschritte kann das mikrofluidische sequenzielle Injektionssystem schnell zwischen Injektions- und Inkubationsschritten wechseln, was für Mikroskopiestudien von Vorteil ist. Ein weiteres Ventil am Ausgang kurz vor dem Chip oder der Kammer ermöglicht es, den Fluss entweder dorthin oder in den Abfall zu leiten, um die Schläuche zwischen zwei aufeinanderfolgenden Injektionen zu spülen. Dieses Ventil ist auch für die automatische Kalibrierung und das Priming nützlich.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/techno-aria-interieur-sans-couleur.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/techno-aria-graphe-stop-flow.jpg)
### 3- Hohe Multiplexing-Fähigkeiten durch interne Integration und Automatisierung mikrofluidischer Ventile
Um unseren Mikroskopieanwendern Multiplexing-Fähigkeiten zu bieten, haben wir **automatisierte sequenzielle Injektionssysteme** entwickelt, die auf der Integration und Automatisierung mehrerer mikrofluidischer Ventile (z. B. 11-Port/10-Wege-Drehventil, 3/2-Wege-Ventile) basieren. Sie werden von maßgeschneiderter Elektronik begleitet, die den Anschluss und die Wartung erleichtert, sowie von mechanischer Integration, die Risiken wie Luftblasenbildung minimiert und die Ergonomie verbessert. Sie alle werden von unserem Algorithmus gesteuert, um mit unseren Durchflussregelungskomponenten auf die effizienteste und leistungsfähigste Weise zusammenzuarbeiten, und werden in eine Anlage integriert, um ein vollautomatisches System zu erhalten.
Mit solchen Systemen können mehrere Pufferreservoirs während eines experimentellen Arbeitsablaufs ausgetauscht werden, was das Multiplexing vieler Markierungen in einem Experiment ermöglicht. Dies macht sie optimal für Lokalisierungsmikroskopie-Anwendungen.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/customization-of-complex-systems-3-scaled.jpg)**Abbildung 1 Beispiel für die Integration eines Verteilerventils in ein mikrofluidisches sequentielles Injektionssystem**
### 4 SDK und Software für Zeiteinsparung, Benutzerfreundlichkeit und nahtlose OEM-Integration
Fluigent hat Softwarefunktionen speziell für Multiplexing-Anwendungen entwickelt, die es dem Benutzer ermöglichen, Liquid-Handling-Sequenzen für den Einsatz in der Mikroskopie vollständig zu automatisieren. Das Perfusionsgerät kann automatisch jedes Perfusionsprotokoll durchführen und bietet folgende Vorteile :
- Anpassung an jeden Versuchsplan für eine genaue und reproduzierbare Vorbereitung der Proben für die Fluoreszenzmikroskopie
- Intuitiv, zeitsparend und einfach zu bedienen: Individuelle Methoden können schnell erstellt, gespeichert und für einen Lauf abgerufen werden.
- Ermöglicht Langzeit-Perfusionsstudien wie z. B. Multicolor-PAINT-Imaging
**Die Funktionen umfassen:**
- Flussmanagementfunktionen: Volumeninjektion, zeitgesteuerte Injektion, Reservoirauswahl, Flüssigkeitsspülung usw.
- Sequenzierungsfunktionen: Warten, Warten auf Benutzer, Warten auf TTL, Gruppe, Schleife
- Funktionen zum Laden und Speichern von Protokollen
- Datenaufzeichnungsfunktion
- TTL- und TCP/IP-Funktionen
- Kommunikation mit externen Systemen und Warten auf deren Signale als Teil der Protokolle, um andere Bildgebungsprozesse durchzuführen, während das Perfusionsprotokoll pausiert wird
- Fehlerfunktionen (Rückmeldung über Fehler, die während des Protokolls auftreten)
Die Standardsoftware ist in unserem automatisierten sequenziellen Injektionssystem, Aria, für Endanwender enthalten. Die Aria-Software fasst alle oben genannten Funktionen zusammen und bietet eine benutzerfreundliche Schnittstelle, die es dem Benutzer ermöglicht, Funktionen hinzuzufügen, um ein vollständiges Fluidikprotokoll zu erstellen.
## Wir bieten ein komplettes Angebot für alle Ihre Bedürfnisse im Bereich der Lokalisierungsmikroskopie
### 1- Sequentielles Standard-Injektionssystem
Wir bieten ein sofort einsatzbereites Multiplexing-System für die Lokalisierungsmikroskopie an, dass die folgenden Vorteile bietet:
- Lieferung bis zu 10 Lösungen
- Automatisierung beliebiger Protokolle
- Eigene Fluigent-Software und SDK
- Versionen mit Einzelausgang (1 Probe) und Serienausgang (9 Proben)
**Weitere verfügbare Funktionen:**
- Lokale Steuerung über ein Bedienfeld
- Nachtmodus für den Einsatz in einem dunklen Raum für die Fluoreszenzmikroskopie
### 2 – Software
Um eine vollständig funktionale Lösung für Ihre Anwendung zu bieten, können wir unsere Software an Ihre Bedürfnisse anpassen. Dazu gehören kundenspezifische Schnittstellen und funktionelle Änderungen. Die Software kann angepasst werden, um neue Anforderungen an Druck-/Durchflusspaare und interne Volumina zu erfüllen. Es können zusätzliche Funktionen für die Kommunikation mit Ihren Geräten implementiert werden, die zusätzliche Warnungen und Sicherheitsfunktionen umfassen können. Die Software kann ebenfalls an die Corporate Identity-Charta Ihres Unternehmens angepasst werden.
### 3 – Vollständig maßgeschneidertes System: von der Idee bis zur Produktion
Wenn Sie ein brandneues Fluidikmanagementsystem für Ihr Mikroskopie-Setup benötigen, bieten wir Ihnen eine flexible, kundenspezifische Entwicklung von mikrofluidischen Geräten an. Je nach Ihren Bedürfnissen und den enthaltenen Modulen (integriertes Mikroskopmodul, Temperaturregelung, Flüssigkeitsmischung, Durchflusssensoren…) können kundenspezifische Funktionen hinzugefügt werden.
Durch die Zusammenarbeit mit uns profitieren die Kunden von Fluigents Portfolio an Produkten, Technologien, Patenten und 15 Jahren Erfahrung mit Mikrofluidik-Technologie. Wir kombinieren unser Fachwissen und unsere Kenntnisse, um kundenspezifische mikrofluidische Geräte von höchster Qualität zu entwickeln. Werden Sie Partner von Fluigent, um die Markteinführung Ihres Produkts zu beschleunigen.
- **Die flexibelste Lösung**
- **Fluigent Fachwissen**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/localization-microscopy-and-sequential-injection.png)
## Referenz
Lelek, M. *et al.* Single-molecule localization microscopy. *Nature Reviews Methods Primers* vol. 1 Preprint at https://doi.org/10.1038/s43586-021-00038-x (2021).
---
### [用于复用的定位显微技术和流量控制](https://www.fluigent.com/weiliukong-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 专用于您定位显微应用的完美流量管理解决方案
Fluigent的软件控制、自动化和完全集成的解决方案是市场上唯一一套商业系统，为复用定位显微功能提供顺序注射。我们还根据标准顺序注射设备Aria提供定制服务，以完美满足您的多种要求（硬件、软件、品牌等）。
此外，我们的顺序注射解决方案还具备以下额外优势：
- 流控序列自动化和灵活配置
- 可通过我们的软件和SDK轻松集成
- 可通过Fluigent压力驱动技术实现最佳性能
[查看我们的报价 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/microfluidic-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/#offer)
## 什么是单分子定位显微镜？
单分子定位显微镜（通常称为SMLM）是一组强大的成像技术，与标准显微镜技术相比，该技术可显著提高空间分辨率，并能捕获到分子尺度的生物结构图像。1
在单分子定位显微成像技术中，单个荧光分子通过计算进行定位，这些定位用于生成超分辨率图像。子应用包括多种研究领域，如寡核苷酸和随机光学重建显微镜（STORM）、基于DNA的纳米级定位成像点积累（DNA PAINT）、复用抗体标记、细胞生物学、神经科学研究等。
## 为什么微流控被用于SMLM？
典型的单分子定位显微技术工作流程包括固定细胞和活细胞中的荧光标记、样品制备和图像采集。
### 1- 增加标记目标
定位显微技术的应用正在不断发展，其中成像目标数量远远超过可以进行色谱分离的探针数量。使用微流控进行连续标记可以处理更多目标。
### 2- 减少方案失败并确保重现性
除了极其耗时之外，手动注射或标准移液还可能损害此类应用中的生物样品：
- 注射量不同会增加变异性（对于10 µL移液，个体内不精确度为5.7%，个体间不精确度为8.1%）
- 湍流可能会损坏样品
- 接触容器侧面可能会导致污染
- 倾斜移液、未预湿管头端以及擦拭管头端会增加输送不足和样品损失的可能性。
利用微流控，用户可以克服上述限制，因为该技术支持以全自动方式输送高度控制的微升流速（低至几nL/min，测量准确度误差< 5%）。
单分子定位显微技术的重大发现
## Fluigent如何增强定位显微技术的应用
构建用于顺序标记的微流控复用系统需要微流控管理、电子和软件方面的专业知识，这些都需要专门的工程资源、时间和资金投入。例如，对于顺序注射，在评估流量控制的物理原理后，用户必须收集流体输送组件、微流控阀、电子设备和其他设备。此外，还需要软件来自动控制显微镜的流量。
### 1- Fluigent已经开发了定制、按需复用系统和OEM自动化工作流程，专门用于定位显微镜和活细胞成像。
下文描述了与我们开发相关的不同功能。这些功能可以在定制项目中重复使用，或与其他模块结合使用。了解客户为何选择Fluigent来自动化其顺序标记工作流程。
[了解有关项目定制的更多信息 ](https://www.fluigent.com/zh-hans/industrial-zh-hans/industrial-products/full-customization/)
### 2- 通过Fluigent获得的专利技术——压力驱动流量管理来提高流量性能
#### 稳定性强，保证样品活性
我们的设备采用Fluigent压力式流量控制技术。使用压力驱动的流量控制，样品可平稳注入微流控系统中。由于没有机械部件与流体接触，压力控制器可以建立无脉冲流量，即使是蠕动泵，或者最精确的注射泵也无法获得这种流量。使用Fluigent控制器，可以获得变异系数< 0.1%的压力稳定性，并为新兴应用提供新的稳定性水平。 下图展示了Fluigent控制器与蠕动泵和注射泵之间的灌注比较。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-flow-controller-cn.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/oem-flow-settling-time-cn.png)用户可以独立选择每种溶液的流速、体积和输送时间。然后，系统自主执行方案，并可在长期过程中保持稳定。
#### 专用于显微镜应用的流速特性
设备中添加的开关阀可确保当用户命令执行成像时停止流动。如相邻图表所示，使用切流技术时，一旦注入所需体积，流速会立即停止，从而有效防止回流。
在培养步骤期间防止回流，可让微流控顺序注射系统能够在注射和培养步骤之间快速切换，这对于显微镜研究而言非常有利。在芯片或培养室之前的输出口设有另一个阀门，该阀门可以控制流体方向，使其朝向阀门或流向废液处理区，以在两次连续注射之间冲洗管道。该阀门也用于自动校准和预充。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/techno-aria-interieur-sans-couleur.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/techno-aria-graphe-stop-flow.jpg)
### 3- 通过内部微流控阀门集成与自动化实现高复用能力
为了向显微镜用户提供复用功能，我们开发了基于多种微流控阀（如十位十一通旋转阀、两位三通阀）集成和自动化的自动顺序注射系统。该系统配备定制的电子设备，可简化连接和维护以及机械集成，可最大限度地降低气泡形成等风险并改善人体工程学。该系统全部由我们的算法控制，确保与流量控制组件协同工作，达到最高的效率和性能，并集成到一个设置中以实现完全自动化。
借助该系统，可以在实验过程中更换多个缓冲液储液瓶，从而能够在一个实验中对多个标记进行复用。这对于定位显微镜应用来说是最佳选择。
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/customization-of-complex-systems-3-scaled.jpg)*图1微流控顺序注射系统中分配阀集成示例*
### 4- SDK和软件可节省时间、易于使用并与OEM无缝集成
Fluigent开发了一套专用于复用应用的软件功能，用户能够完全自动化显微镜使用的液体处理序列。该灌注设备可以自动执行任何灌注方案，具有以下优点：
- 能够适应任何实验设计，准确且可再现地制备荧光显微镜样品
- 直观、省时且易于使用：可以为运行快速创建、保存和调用单个方法
- 可实现长期灌注研究，例如多色PAINT成像
**其特点包括：**
- 流量管理功能：体积注射、定时注射、储液瓶选择、液体冲洗等。
- 序列功能：等待、等待用户操作、等待TTL信号、分组、循环
- 方案加载和保存功能
- 数据记录功能
- TTL和TCP/IP功能
- 与外部系统通信，并在灌注方案暂停时，等待外部系统信号来执行其他成像过程
- 错误功能（在方案执行过程中遇到错误反馈）
标准软件版本包含在我们的终端用户自动顺序注射系统Aria中。Aria软件集上述所有功能于一体，并提供易于使用的界面，用户可轻松添加流量管理功能，从而无缝创建出一个完整的流控方案。
## 我们提供一整套解决您所有定位显微镜需求的解决方案
### 1- 标准顺序注射系统
我们提供即取即用、可随时订购的复用技术，专用于定位显微技术，并具备以下优势：
- 提供解决方案多达10种
- 自动化处理任何方案
- 专用Fluigent软件和SDK
- 单一输出（1个样本）和连续输出（9个样本）版本
**其他可用功能：
- 通过控制面板实现定位控制
- 夜间模式，方便在暗室中进行荧光显微观察
### 2– 软件
为了提供完全符合您应用需求的解决方案，我们可以根据您的需求调整我们的软件，包括自定义界面和功能修改。软件可以根据新的需求进行调整，以适应压力/流速对、内部体积以及与您设备通信的额外功能（可能包括额外的警告、安全功能等）。软件还可以定制以符合贵公司的企业形象章程。
### 3– 完全定制系统：从概念到生产
如果您需要一套专门用于显微设置的全新流量管理系统，我们可以提供灵活的定制微流控设备开发服务，以实现您心中所想的系统。可以根据您的需求和所包含的模块添加定制功能（集成显微镜模块、温度控制、液体混合、流量传感器……）。
通过与我们建立合作关系，客户可以利用Fluigent丰富的产品、技术、专利资源以及在微流控技术领域15年的经验。我们结合自身的专业知识和经验，设计和制造最高品质的定制微流控设备。携手Fluigent，让您的产品更快进入市场。
- 最灵活的解决方案
- Fluigent专业知识
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/sequential-injection-solution-cn.png)
## Reference
Lelek, M. *et al.* Single-molecule localization microscopy. *Nature Reviews Methods Primers* vol. 1 Preprint at https://doi.org/10.1038/s43586-021-00038-x (2021).
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### [멀티플렉싱을 위한 국소화 현미경 검사 및 유량 제어 ](https://www.fluigent.com/miseyucheoem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 국소화 현미경 검사 응용분야를 위한 완벽한 유량 관리 솔루션
소프트웨어로 제어되고 자동화되며 완전히 통합된 Fluigent의 솔루션은 다중화된 국소화 현미경 검사 기능을 위한 순차 주입을 제공하는 유일한 상용 시스템입니다. 또한 표준 순차 주입 장치인 Aria를 기반으로 고객의 요구 사항(하드웨어, 소프트웨어, 브랜딩 등)에 완벽하게 부합하는 맞춤형 서비스를 제공합니다.
또한 당사의 순차 사출 솔루션은 다음과 같은 추가적인 이점을 제공합니다.
- 유체 시퀀스의 자동화 및 유연한 구성
- 소프트웨어 및 SDK를 통한 손쉬운 통합
- Fluigent의 압력 구동 기술로 최상의 성능 달성
[당사 제품 보기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/microfluidic-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/#offer)
## 단일 분자 국소화 현미경이란?
단일 분자 국소화 현미경(SMLM이라고도 함)은 표준 현미경 기법에 비해 공간 해상도를 획기적으로 개선하고 분자 수준에서 생물학적 구조의 영상을 캡처할 수 있는 강력한 영상촬영 기법 제품군을 말합니다1.
단일 분자 국소화 현미경에서는 개별 형광 분자를 컴퓨터로 국소화하여, 이러한 국소화 정보를 사용해 초고해상도 영상을 생성합니다. 하위 응용분야로는 올리고 및 리프레시 STORM, DNA PAINT, 다중 항체 라벨링, 세포 생물학, 신경과학 연구 등이 있습니다.
## SMLM에 미세유체를 사용하는 이유
일반적인 단일 분자 국소화 현미경 워크플로우에는 형광 라벨링, 시료 준비, 고정 세포와 살아있는 세포의 영상 획득이 포함됩니다.
### 1- 라벨링 대상 증가
영상촬영 대상의 수가 크로마토그래피로 분리할 수 있는 프로브의 수를 훨씬 능가하는 국소화 현미경의 응용분야가 발전하고 있습니다. 미세유체를 이용한 순차적 라벨링을 통해 훨씬 더 많은 수의 대상을 처리할 수 있습니다.
### 2- 프로토콜 실패 감소 및 재현성 확보
수동 주입이나 표준 피펫팅은 극도로 시간이 많이 소요될 뿐만 아니라 다음과 같은 응용분야에서 생물학적 시료에 해를 끼칠 수 있습니다.
- 서로 다른 주입은 변동성을 증가시킴(10µL 피펫팅의 경우 개체 내 부정확도 5.7%, 개체 간 부정확도 8.1%)
- 난류로 인해 시료가 손상될 수 있음
- 용기 측면을 만지면 오염될 수 있음
- 비스듬히 피펫팅하거나 팁을 미리 적시지 않고 팁을 닦으면 시료가 부족하게 전달되고 손실될 가능성이 높아질 수 있습니다.
미세유체를 사용하면 완전 자동화된 방식으로 고도로 제어된 마이크로리터 유량(수 nL/min까지, 정확도 < 5%)을 전달할 수 있으므로 위의 한계를 극복할 수 있습니다.
단일 분자 국소화 현미경을 통해 이루어진 주요 발견
## Fluigent가 국소화 현미경을 강화하는 방법
순차적 라벨링을 위한 미세유체 멀티플렉싱 시스템을 구축하려면 미세유체 관리, 전자 및 소프트웨어에 대한 전문 지식이 필요하며, 이를 위해서는 전용 엔지니어링 리소스, 시간, 비용이 필요합니다. 예를 들어 순차 주입을 위해서는 유량 제어의 물리학을 평가한 후 유체 전달 구성 요소, 미세유체 밸브, 전자 장치, 기타 장비를 수집해야 합니다. 또한 현미경 검사를 위한 유량 제어를 자동화하기 위해서는 소프트웨어가 필요합니다.
### 1- Fluigent는 국소화 현미경 및 살아있는 세포 영상촬영 전용 맞춤형 주문형 멀티플렉싱 시스템과 OEM 자동화 워크플로우를 개발했습니다.
개발과 관련된 다양한 기능이 아래에 설명되어 있습니다. 이러한 기능은 맞춤형 프로젝트에서 브릭으로 재사용하거나 다른 모듈과 결합할 수 있습니다. 고객들이 순차적 라벨링 워크플로우 자동화를 위해 Fluigent를 선택한 이유를 확인해 보세요.
[프로젝트 사용자 지정에 대해 자세히 알아보기 ](https://www.fluigent.com/ko/industrial-ko/industrial-products-ko/full-customization/)
### 2- Fluigent의 특허받은 압력 기반 유량 관리로 인한 유량 성능 향상
#### 시료 생존 가능성을 보장하는 뛰어난 안정성
당사의 기기에는 Fluigent의 압력 기반 유량 제어 기술이 탑재되어 있습니다. 압력 기반 유량 제어를 사용하여 시료를 미세유체 시스템에 부드럽게 주입합니다. 유체와 접촉하는 기계적 부품이 없기 때문에 압력 컨트롤러는 연동 펌프나 가장 정밀한 시린지 펌프로도 달성할 수 없는 흔들림 없는 유량을 생성할 수 있습니다. Fluigent 컨트롤러를 사용하면 0.1% 미만의 CV로 압력 안정성을 얻을 수 있습니다. 이를 통해 새로운 응용분야에 요구되는 새로운 수준의 안정성을 확보할 수 있습니다. 아래 그래프는 Fluigent 컨트롤러와 연동 펌프, 시린지 펌프 간의 관류 비교를 보여줍니다.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/03/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-flow-controller-ko.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/oem-flow-settling-time-ko.png)사용자는 각 용액의 유속, 부피, 전달 시간을 개별적으로 선택할 수 있습니다. 그 후 시스템은 프로토콜을 자동으로 수행하며 장기간 안정적으로 유지될 수 있습니다.
#### 현미경 응용분야를 위한 전용 유속 기능
장치에 온오프 밸브가 추가되어 사용자가 영상촬영을 수행하도록 명령하면 유량이 중단되도록 보장합니다. 인접한 그래프에서 볼 수 있듯이 컷 플로우 기술을 사용할 경우 원하는 양을 주입하면 유량이 즉시 중단되어 역류를 방지합니다.
배양 단계에서 역류를 방지하면 미세유체 순차 주입 시스템이 주입과 배양 단계 사이를 빠르게 전환할 수 있어 현미경 연구에 유리합니다. 칩 또는 챔버 바로 앞의 출력부에 있는 또 다른 밸브는 두 번의 연속 주입 사이에 튜브를 세척하기 위해 유량이 칩 또는 폐기물 쪽으로 흐르도록 합니다. 이 밸브는 자동 교정 및 프라이밍에도 유용합니다.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/techno-aria-interieur-sans-couleur.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/techno-aria-graphe-stop-flow.jpg)
### 3- 자체 미세유체 밸브 통합 및 자동화를 통한 높은 수준의 멀티플렉싱 기능
현미경 사용자에게 멀티플렉싱 기능을 제공하기 위해 여러 미세유체 밸브(예: 11포트/10웨이 회전식 밸브, 3/2웨이 밸브)의 통합 및 자동화를 기반으로 하는 자동화된 순차 주입 시스템을 개발했습니다. 이 시스템에는 연결 및 유지보수를 용이하게 하는 맞춤형 전자 장치와 기포 발생과 같은 위험을 최소화하고 인체공학을 개선하는 기계적 통합이 함께 제공됩니다. 이들 모두는 가장 효율적이고 성능이 우수한 방식으로 유량 제어 구성 요소와 함께 작동하도록 알고리즘에 의해 제어되며, 완전 자동화된 시스템을 얻기 위해 설정에 통합됩니다.
이러한 시스템을 사용하면 실험 워크플로우 중에 여러 버퍼 저장소를 교체할 수 있으므로 한 실험에서 여러 라벨을 멀티플렉싱할 수 있습니다. 이는 국소화 현미경 응용분야에 이상적입니다.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/customization-of-complex-systems-3-scaled.jpg)*그림 1 미세유체 순차 주입 시스템에서 분배 밸브를 통합하는 예시*
### 4- 시간 절약, 사용의 용이성, 원활한 OEM 통합을 위한 SDK 및 소프트웨어
Fluigent는 사용자가 현미경 사용을 위한 액체 처리 시퀀스를 완전히 자동화할 수 있는 멀티플렉싱 응용분야 전용 소프트웨어 기능을 개발했습니다. 이 관류 장치는 모든 관류 프로토콜을 자동으로 수행할 수 있으며 다음과 같은 이점을 제공합니다.
- 형광 현미경 검사를 위한 시료의 정확하고 재현 가능한 준비를 위해 모든 실험 설계에 맞출 수 있음
- 직관적이고 시간을 절약하며 사용하기 쉬움: 개별 방법을 생성, 저장, 호출하여 신속하게 실행할 수 있음
- 멀티컬러 PAINT 영상과 같은 장기 관류 연구 가능
**다음 기능을 제공합니다.**
- 유량 관리 기능: 볼륨 주입, 타이밍 주입, 저장조 선택, 액체 플러싱 등
- 시퀀싱 기능: 대기, 사용자 대기, TTL 대기, 그룹, 루프
- 프로토콜 로딩 및 저장 기능
- 데이터 기록 기능
- TTL 및 TCP/IP 기능
- 관류 프로토콜이 일시 중지된 동안 다른 영상촬영 프로세스를 수행하기 위해 프로토콜의 일부로 외부 시스템과 통신하고 신호를 기다림
- 오류 기능(프로토콜 실행 중 발생한 오류에 대한 피드백)
표준 소프트웨어 버전은 최종 사용자 자동 순차 주입 시스템인 Aria에 포함되어 있습니다. Aria 소프트웨어는 위의 모든 기능을 수집하고 사용하기 쉬운 인터페이스를 제공하여 사용자가 유량 관리 기능을 추가하여 완벽한 유체 프로토콜을 원활하게 생성할 수 있도록 합니다.
## 당사는 모든 국소화 현미경 검사 요구 사항을 해결할 수 있는 완벽한 솔루션을 제공합니다.
### 1 – 표준 순차 주입 시스템
즉시 주문 가능한 국소화 현미경 검사 전용 멀티플렉싱을 제공하며 다음과 같은 이점이 있습니다.
- 최대 10개의 용액 공급
- 모든 프로토콜 자동화
- 전용 Fluigent 소프트웨어 및 SDK
- 단일 출력(1개 시료) 및 연속 출력(9개 시료) 버전
**기타 사용 가능한 기능:
- 제어판을 통한 로컬 제어
- 형광 현미경 검사를 위해 암실에서 사용할 수 있는 야간 모드
### 2 – 소프트웨어
고객의 응용분야에 맞는 완벽한 기능을 갖춘 솔루션을 제공하기 위해 당사는 고객의 요구에 맞게 소프트웨어를 조정할 수 있습니다. 여기에는 맞춤형 인터페이스와 기능 수정이 포함됩니다. 소프트웨어는 압력/유속 조합, 내부 볼륨, 장치와의 통신을 위한 추가 기능(추가 경고, 보안 기능 포함)에 대한 새로운 요구 사항을 충족하도록 조정할 수 있으며, 이를 구현할 수 있습니다. 또한 회사의 기업 정체성 헌장에 맞게 소프트웨어를 맞춤화할 수도 있습니다.
### 3 – 완전 맞춤형 시스템: 아이디어에서 생산까지
마이크로카피 설정 전용의 새로운 유량 관리 시스템이 필요한 경우, 당사는 유연한 맞춤형 미세유체 장치 개발을 제공하여 고객이 구상하는 시스템을 제공합니다. 고객의 요구와 포함된 모듈(통합 현미경 모듈, 온도 제어, 액체 혼합, 유량 센서 등)에 따라 맞춤형 기능을 추가할 수 있습니다.
당사와의 파트너십을 통해 고객은 미세유체 기술에 대한 15년간의 경험과 제품, 기술, 특허로 구성된 Fluigent의 포트폴리오를 활용할 수 있습니다. 당사는 전문성과 지식을 결합하여 최고 품질의 맞춤형 미세유체 장치를 설계하고 제조합니다. Fluigent와 협력하여 제품 출시 기간을 단축하세요.
- 가장 유연한 솔루션
- Fluigent의 전문성
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/sequential-injection-solution-ko.png)
## Reference
Lelek, M. *et al.* Single-molecule localization microscopy. *Nature Reviews Methods Primers* vol. 1 Preprint at https://doi.org/10.1038/s43586-021-00038-x (2021).
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### [미세유체 응용을 위한 F-OEM 밸브 자동화 ](https://www.fluigent.com/miseyucheoem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 산업 공정에서 유체 밸브 자동화의 이점
미세유체 밸브는 소량의 유체 흐름을 제어하는 데 도움을 줍니다. 이러한 제어를 통해 미세유체 장치는 응용분야의 필요에 따라 더 높은 수준의 자동화를 통해 더욱 복잡해질 수 있습니다. 예를 들어, 분석 및 진단 장치에서 이 밸브들은 혈액, 화학물질, 완충제와 같은 중성 및 강력한 유체의 흐름을 조절합니다.
## F-OEM으로 유체 자동화 및 밸브 관리 시작하기
아래 동영상은 F-OEM을 사용하여 구현할 수 있는 다양한 염색 용액의 빠르고 자동화된 순차적 유체 주입을 보여줍니다. 그림 2는 측정된 유량과 구현된 압력을 시간에 따른 함수로 보여줍니다.
모든 스위치 이벤트도 표시되어 있으며 유체 라인의 피크에 해당합니다. 스위치 이벤트 중에 적용된 압력은 전체 프로토콜 동안 500µL/min의 유체 유량을 유지하도록 자동으로 조절됩니다. 피크는 각각의 내부 부피로 인해 밸브 스위칭에 내재되어 있습니다.
그림 1 컬러 염료를 사용한 유체 순차 주입 시연
그림 2 시간에 따른 유량 및 조정된 압력 F OEM 압력 컨트롤러 2 X M X 미세유체 밸브를 사용한 유체 관리 유량은 500µLmin로 설정됩니다
500µL/min의 목표 유량은 전체 프로토콜 동안 일정하게 유지되며, 유체 시스템에 내재된 피크는 5초 미만이고 유체 스위치에 해당합니다. 피크가 없는 지점에서 예상 유량 평균, 표준 편차, 관련 정확도는 각각 500.5µL/min, ±1.5µL/min 및 0.3%입니다. F-OEM에 통합된 Fluigent 압력 컨트롤러를 통해 빠른 가압 및 감압이 가능합니다.
## 시료 준비부터 세포 분류까지
- 전기 로터리 밸브는 액체를 순차적으로 주입하거나 여러 경로로 액체를 분배하는 데 사용됩니다.
이 밸브들은 다수의 라벨을 처리하는 고정밀 형광 현미경에서 사용될 수 있습니다. 또 다른 예로는 분광학, 광도측정, 분리, 반응기를 포함하는 미세유체 기반 분석 장치들이 있습니다. 이러한 응용분야들은 일반적으로 정밀한 시료 준비와 사용되는 시약의 양을 최소화하면서 분석 시료에서 완충액으로 자동 전환하는 능력을 요구합니다.
- 2/2 또는 3/2 웨이 밸브는 유체 분리를 수행하는 데 사용됩니다. 검출된 세포 또는 관심 있는 분석물이 포함된 시료를 주 흐름 경로에서 분리하여 추가 조사를 수행할 수 있는 세포 분류 응용분야에 유용합니다. 또한 분석 장비의 세척 및 폐기물 처리에도 널리 사용됩니다.
그림 3: 유체 밸브 자동화를 사용하는 응용분야 예시. 세포 분류(위) 및 시료 준비(아래).
## 미세유체 모듈을 어떻게 효율적으로 통합할까요?
### 구성 요소 통합 및 시장 출시 시간
유체 시스템 개발과 밸브 자동화 통합에는 유체 처리 구성 요소(압력 컨트롤러, 시린지 펌프 등), 유체 밸브, 통신과 자동화를 위한 관련 전자 장치 및 소프트웨어가 필요합니다. 유체 시스템의 정상적인 작동과 응용분야의 성공을 보장하기 위해서는 모든 유체 구성 요소 간의 원활한 조정이 필수적입니다. 인터페이스의 자동화와 생성은 비용과 시간이 많이 들고 리소스에 의존적일 수 있으며, 이는 궁극적으로 시장 출시 시간에 영향을 미치고 최종 시스템 안정성에 영향을 미칠 수 있습니다.
### F-OEM: 효율적인 프로토타이핑 및 통합을 위한 턴키 솔루션
Fluigent는 압력 소스, 압력 기반 흐름 컨트롤러, 미세유체학에 특화된 유체 전자 밸브로 구성된 턴키 유체 관리 시스템을 개발하여 제공합니다. Fluigent 시스템을 사용하는 사용자는 다음과 같은 이점을 누릴 수 있습니다.
- 밸브에는 다른 Fluigent 구성 요소와 통신하는 데 필요한 전자 장치가 포함되어 있어 개발 시간 단축 및 신뢰성 향상
- Fluigent의 OxyGEN 소프트웨어 및 SDK를 통해 빠른 프로토타이핑 및 통합 경험 가능
- 밸브 모듈이 F-OEM 압력 컨트롤러에 통합됨으로써 소형화 실현
**아래 사용된 시스템은 다음과 같은 구성 요소로 이루어져 있습니다.
- 하위 구성 요소(통합 보드, OEM 압력 컨트롤러, 밸브 모듈)가 포함된 F-OEM
- Fluigent M-X: 회전식 다중 포트 OEM 미세유체 밸브
- Fluigent 2-X: 3포트/2웨이 양방향 OEM 미세유체 밸브
- FS 시리즈 유체 OEM 유량 센서
다음은 시료 준비, 멀티플렉싱, 피펫팅, 정렬 등의 응용분야에 사용될 수 있는 일반적인 유체 처리 설정입니다. 하나의 압력 컨트롤러가 특정 용액이 담긴 3개의 저장소에 압력을 가하며, 이후 M-X 및 2-X 밸브를 사용하여 차례로 주입 및 정렬됩니다.
**그림 4: F-OEM 압력 컨트롤러, 2-X 및 M-X 밸브로 구성된 유체 밸브 자동화에 특화된 Fluigent의 미세유체 OEM 시스템**
## 완전 자동화를 위한 Fluigent 소프트웨어
### OxyGEN 소프트웨어를 이용한 신속한 테스트
프로토타입을 이용한 즉각적인 테스트를 시작하기 위해, Fluigent의 OxyGEN 소프트웨어가 유체 관리용으로 제공됩니다. 모든 구성 요소는 “실시간 제어” 탭을 사용하여 구동할 수 있으며, 유체 자동화를 시작하기 위해 “프로토콜 탭”에서 더 복잡한 프로토콜을 계산할 수 있습니다(그림 5).
일반적인 밸브 자동화에서는 시료 준비, 분류 혹은 여러 유체의 청소 등의 프로토콜이 순차적으로 주입되고, 주 유체 라인은 시료 수집이나 폐기물 처리를 위해 전환될 수 있습니다.
여기에서는 3개의 별도의 저장소로부터 3가지 염료 용액을 주입함으로써 일반적인 순차적 유체 주입 프로토콜을 시뮬레이션합니다.
그림 5는 OxyGEN에 적용된 프로토콜을 보여줍니다. 전체 실험 동안 구현된 유량은 500µL/min입니다. 다음과 같은 순서로 실험을 수행했습니다.
그림 5는 OxyGEN에 적용된 프로토콜을 보여줍니다. 전체 실험 동안 구현된 유량은 500µL/min입니다. 다음과 같은 순서로 실험을 수행했습니다.
- 모든 압력 재설정
- 500µL/min의 유량
- 2-X를 포지션 1에 설정(프로토콜 시작 시 정확한 포지션 보장)
- M-X를 포지션 1에 설정하고, 30초간 대기
- M-X를 포지션 2에 설정하고, 30초간 대기
- M-X를 포지션 3에 설정하고, 30초간 대기
- 2-X를 포지션 2에 설정
- 2-X를 포지션 1에 설정
- M-X를 포지션 1에 설정하고, 30초간 대기
- 압력을 0mbar로 설정
동영상에서 해당 프로토콜이 실행되는 모습을 볼 수 있습니다. 전체 프로세스 동안 프로토콜을 모니터링할 수 있습니다. 유량, 압력, 밸브 포지션에 대한 실시간 정보는 OxyGEN 소프트웨어의 실시간 제어 탭에서 확인할 수 있습니다.
그림 5 일반적인 유체 프로토콜을 보여주는 OxyGEN 소프트웨어의 스냅샷 그림 6: OxyGEN 소프트웨어 동영상
### Fluigent SDK를 통한 원활한 통합
프로토콜이 완전히 검증되면 사용자는 OxyGEN에서 사용할 수 있는 모든 기능을 통합하는 Fluigent SDK를 사용할 수 있습니다. 이를 통해 외부 응용분야에서 Fluigent 장치를 통합할 수 있는 기능을 제공합니다.
SDK는 LabVIEW, C++, C#.NET, Python, MATLAB을 포함한 여러 언어로 설계되었습니다. 다음은 OxyGEN 소프트웨어에서 위에 구현된 프로토콜의 Python 버전입니다.
그림 7 일반적인 유체 프로토콜을 보여주는 Fluigent SDK의 스냅샷입니다
## 당사의 유체 모듈은 밀리 및 미세유체 응용분야에서 유체 작업을 자동화할 수 있습니다.
위의 결과는 Fluigent의 M-X 및 2-X 밸브와 결합된 F-OEM의 기능을 보여줍니다. 이러한 장치들은 시료 준비, 세포 분류, 일반 액체 취급과 같은 밀리 및 미세유체 응용분야에 필요한 고성능 유체 자동화를 제공합니다.
---
### [使用F-OEM打造适用于微流控应用的阀自动化 ](https://www.fluigent.com/weiliukong-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## 流控阀自动化在工业生产过程中的优势
微流控阀有助于控制少量流体的流动。借助这种控制技术，微流控设备可以设计得更加复杂，并具有更高的自动化程度，具体取决于应用的需求。例如，在分析和诊断设备中，这些阀控制中性和腐蚀性流体（例如血液、化学品和缓冲液）的流动。
## 使用F-OEM启动流体自动化和阀管理
下面的视频演示了不同染色溶液流体的快速、自动顺序注射，此操作可使用F-OEM实现。图2显示了随时间变化测得的流速和施加的压力。
所有的切换事件也会显示出来并与流控管路上的峰值相对应。在切换事件期间，所施加的压力会自动调节，以在整个方案期间使流体流速保持在500 µL/min。阀切换过程中的固有峰值取决于各自的内部体积。
图1使用彩色染料演示流体的顺序注射
图2随时间变化的流速和调节压力使用F OEM压力控制器以及2 X和M X微流控阀进行流体管理流速设置为500 µLmin
目标流速500 µL/min在整个方案期间保持不变，峰值< 5 秒，这是流控系统的固有峰值并与各个流控开关相对应。在没有峰值的区域，预估流速平均值、标准偏差和相关精度分别为500.5 µL/min、+/- 1.5 µL/min和0.3%。通过集成到F-OEM中的Fluigent压力控制器，可以实现快速加压和减压。
## 从样本制备到细胞分选
- 电动旋转阀用于顺序注射流体或将流体分流到多个路径中。
这些阀可用于高精度荧光显微镜，将有大量的标签在其中进行处理。另一个示例是基于微流控的分析设备，包括光谱仪、光度测定仪、分离器和反应器。这些应用通常需要精确的样本制备，并且能够自动从分析样本切换到缓冲液，同时最大限度地减少试剂的使用量。
- 两位两通阀或两位三通阀用于进行流体分离。这两种阀在细胞分选应用中非常有用，在这类应用中，可将包含检测到的细胞或目标分析物的样本从主流动路径中分离出来以进行进一步研究。这种方法还广泛用于分析设备的清洁和废液处理。
图3：使用流控阀自动化的应用示例。细胞分选（上）和样本制备（下）。
## 如何高效集成微流控模块？
### 组件集成和上市时间
开发流控系统和集成阀自动化需要流体处理组件（压力控制器、注射泵等）、流控阀以及用于通信和自动化的相关电子设备和软件。为了确保流控系统的正常运行和应用的成功实现，需要所有流控组件之间的无缝配合。接口的自动化和创建可能成本高昂、耗时且依赖于资源，这最终会影响上市时间和最终系统的可靠性。
### F-OEM：适用于高效原型设计和集成的交钥匙解决方案
Fluigent开发并提供交钥匙流体管理系统，包括压力源、压力式流量控制器和微流控专用的流控电子阀。如果使用Fluigent系统，用户将获得以下优势：
- 由于我们的阀包含与其他Fluigent组件通信所需的电子设备，因此可以缩短开发时间并获得可靠性
- 通过Fluigent的OxyGEN软件和SDK，可以体验快速的原型设计和集成
- 由于我们的阀模块已集成到F-OEM压力控制器中，因此可提高紧凑性
****下面使用的系统包含以下组件：****
- F-OEM及其子组件（集成板、OEM压力控制器、阀模块）
- Fluigent M-X：旋转多端口OEM微流控阀
- Fluigent 2-X：两位三通双向OEM微流控阀
- FS系列流控OEM流量传感器
下面是典型的流体处理装置，可用于样本制备、多重分析、移液和分选等应用。一个压力控制器用于对装有特定溶液的3个储液瓶加压，将顺序注射这些溶液并使用M-X和2-X阀进行分选。
**图 4：Fluigent的微流控OEM系统专门用于流控阀自动化，包含F-OEM压力控制器以及2-X和M-X阀**
## 用于实现完全自动化的Fluigent软件
### 使用OxyGEN软件进行快速测试
为了立即开始原型测试，Fluigent的OxyGEN软件可用于流体管理。所有组件都可以使用“实时控制”选项卡进行驱动，并且可以在“方案”选项卡上计算更加复杂的方案以启动流体自动化（图5）。
对于典型的阀自动化，在样本制备、分选或清洁等方案中，将顺序注射多种流体，同时可以切换主流控管路以收集样本或管理废液。
在下图中，我们注射来自3个独立储液瓶的3种染色溶液，从而模拟典型的顺序流体注射方案。
图5显示了在OxyGEN上实现的方案。整个实验期间实现的流速为500 µL/min。我们执行了以下顺序：
图5显示了在OxyGEN上实现的方案。整个实验期间实现的流速为500 µL/min。我们执行了以下顺序：
- 重置所有压力
- 流速为500 µL/min
- 将2-X设置在位置1（确保方案启动时定位正确）
- 将M-X设置在位置1，等待30秒
- 将M-X设置在位置2，等待30秒
- 将M-X设置在位置 3，等待30秒
- 将2-X设置在位置2
- 将2-X设置在位置1
- 将M-X设置在位置1，等待30秒
- 将压力设置为0 mbar
视频显示方案正在运行。可以在整个过程中监控方案。OxyGEN软件的“实时控制”选项卡上提供有关流速、压力和阀位置的实时信息。
图5OxyGEN软件快照展示了典型的流控方案图6：OxyGEN软件视频
### 通过Fluigent SDK进行无缝集成
如果方案已经过充分验证，则用户可以使用Fluigent SDK，其中整合了OxyGEN中可用的所有功能。这使外部应用能够集成Fluigent设备。
SDK支持多种语言（包括LabVIEW、C++、C#.NET、Python和MATLAB）设计。下面是在我们的OxyGEN软件中实现的上述方案的Python等效版本。
图7Fluigent SDK快照展示了典型的流控方案
## 我们的流控模块可以实现流体任务自动化，适用于毫流控和微流控应用
上述结果证明了F-OEM与Fluigent M-X和2-X阀相结合的功能。这些设备组合使用可以产生毫流控和微流控应用（例如样本制备、细胞分选和常规流体处理）所需的高性能流体自动化。
---
### [Ventilautomatisierung mit dem F-OEM für mikrofluidische Anwendungen](https://www.fluigent.com/mikrofluidik-oem/oem-microfluidic-applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
**Published:** June 3, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Vorteile der Automatisierung von Fluidikventilen in industriellen Prozessen
Mikrofluidikventile helfen dabei, den Durchfluss von kleinen Flüssigkeitsmengen zu steuern. Durch diese Steuerung können mikrofluidische Setups komplexer werden und je nach Bedarf der Anwendung einen höheren Automatisierungsgrad aufweisen. In Analyse- und Diagnosegeräten beispielsweise regeln diese Ventile den Durchfluss von neutralen und aggressiven Flüssigkeiten wie Blut, Chemikalien und Puffer.
## Start des Prozesses mit Ventilansteuerung
Das folgende Video veranschaulicht die schnelle und automatisierte sequentielle Flüssigkeitsinjektion der verschiedenen gefärbten Lösungen, die mit dem F-OEM realisiert werden kann. Abbildung 2 zeigt die gemessene Durchflussrate und den implementierten Druck als Funktion der Zeit.
Alle Schaltvorgänge sind ebenfalls dargestellt. Während der Umschaltvorgänge wird der angelegte Druck automatisch reguliert, um während des gesamten Protokolls eine Durchflussrate von 500 µL/min aufrechtzuerhalten. Die Peaks entstehen durch das Umschalten der Ventile aufgrund ihres jeweiligen Innenvolumens.
Abbildung 1 Demonstration der sequentiellen Flüssigkeitsinjektion mit Farbstoffen
Abbildung 2 Durchflussrate und eingestellter Druck als Funktion der Zeit Flüssigkeitsmanagement mit dem F OEM Druckreglern und den Mikrofluidikventilen 2 X und M X Die Durchflussrate ist auf 500 µLmin eingestellt
Die angestrebte Flussrate von 500 µL/min wird während des gesamten Protokolls konstant gehalten. Kurze Artefakte (< 5 s) durch das Schalten der Ventile sind sichtbar. Die Standardabweichung beträgt 500,5 µL/min, +/- 1,5 µL/min und 0,3 %. Schnelle Druckbeaufschlagung und Druckentlüftung sind dank großen On-Off-Ventilen möglich.
## Von der Probenvorbereitung zur Zellsortierung
- **Elektrische Zellenradschleusen** werden zur sequentiellen Injektion oder Verteilung von Flüssigkeiten in mehreren Wegen eingesetzt.
Diese Ventile können in der hochpräzisen Fluoreszenzmikroskopie eingesetzt werden, wo eine große Anzahl von Etiketten verarbeitet wird. Ein weiteres Beispiel sind Analysegeräte auf Mikrofluidikbasis, einschließlich Spektroskopie, Photometrie, Trennung und Reaktoren. Diese Anwendungen erfordern in der Regel eine präzise Probenvorbereitung und die Fähigkeit, automatisch von analytischen Proben auf Puffer umzuschalten und dabei die Menge der verwendeten Reagenzien zu minimieren.
- **2/2- oder 3/2-Wege-Ventile** werden zur Flüssigkeitstrennung eingesetzt. Sie sind nützlich für Zellsortieranwendungen, bei denen Proben, die eine entdeckte Zelle oder einen Analyten enthalten, für weitere Untersuchungen vom Hauptstrom abgetrennt werden können. Sie werden außerdem häufig zur Reinigung und Abfallbehandlung in Analysegeräten eingesetzt.
Abbildung 3: Anwendungsbeispiele für die Automatisierung mit Fluidikventilen. Zellsortierung (oben) und Probenvorbereitung (unten).
## Wie können Sie Ihre mikrofluidischen Module effizient integrieren?
### Komponentenintegration und Markteinführungszeit
Die Entwicklung eines Fluidiksystems und die Integration der Ventilautomatisierung erfordern Komponenten für die Handhabung der Fluide (Druckregler, Spritzenpumpe usw.), Fluidikventile sowie die zugehörige Elektronik und Software für die Kommunikation und Automatisierung. Um das ordnungsgemäße Funktionieren des Fluidiksystems und den Erfolg der Anwendung zu gewährleisten, ist eine reibungslose Koordination zwischen allen Fluidikkomponenten erforderlich. Die Automatisierung und Einrichtung der Schnittstelle kann kostspielig, zeitaufwändig und ressourcenabhängig sein, was sich letztlich auf die Markteinführung und die Zuverlässigkeit des endgültigen Systems auswirkt.
### Das F-OEM: Eine schlüsselfertige Lösung für effizientes Prototyping und Integration
Fluigent entwickelt und liefert schlüsselfertige Fluidmanagementsysteme, bestehend aus Druckquellen, druckbasierten Durchflussreglern und elektronischen Fluidikventilen für die Mikrofluidik. Durch den Einsatz von Fluigent-Systemen können Anwender:
- Gewinnen Sie Entwicklungszeit und Zuverlässigkeit, da unsere Ventile die notwendige Elektronik zur Kommunikation mit anderen Fluigent-Komponenten enthalten
- Erleben Sie schnelles Prototyping und Integration durch die OxyGEN-Software und das SDK von Fluigent
- Höhere Kompaktheit, da unser Ventilmodul in den F-OEM-Druckregler integriert ist
****Das unten verwendete System besteht aus den folgenden Komponenten:****
- F-OEM mit seinen Unterkomponenten (Integrationsboard, OEM-Druckregler, Ventilmodul)
- Fluigent M-X: Drehbares OEM-Mikrofluidikventil mit mehreren Anschlüssen
- Fluigent 2-X: Bidirektionales OEM-Mikrofluidikventil mit 3 Anschlüssen/2 Wegen
- Fluidischer OEM-Durchflusssensor der FS-Serie
Unten sehen Sie ein typisches Fluid-Handling-Setup, das für Anwendungen wie Probenvorbereitung, Multiplexing, Pipettieren und Sortieren verwendet werden kann. Ein Druckregler wird zur Druckversorgung von 3 Behältern mit spezifischen Lösungen verwendet, die nacheinander injiziert und mithilfe der M-X- und 2-X-Ventile sortiert werden.
**Abbildung 4: Das mikrofluidische OEM-System von Fluigent für die Automatisierung von Fluidikventilen, bestehend aus dem F-OEM-Druckregler sowie den 2-X- und M-X-Ventilen**
## Fluigent-Software für vollständige Automatisierung
### Schnelle Tests mit der OxyGEN-Software
Für den sofortigen Start von Tests mit Prototypen ist die OxyGEN-Software von Fluigent für das Fluidmanagement verfügbar. Alle Komponenten können über die Registerkarte “Live-Steuerung” gesteuert werden, und komplexere Protokolle können auf der Registerkarte “Protokoll” für den Start der Fluidautomatisierung berechnet werden (Abbildung 5).
Bei einer typischen Ventilautomatisierung werden Protokolle wie z. B. bei der Probenvorbereitung, Sortierung oder Reinigung mehrere Fluide nacheinander injiziert. Währenddessen wird die Hauptfluidikleitung umgeschaltet, um Proben zu sammeln oder nicht benötigte Fluide werden in ein Entsorgungsreservoir geleitet
Wir simulieren hier ein Protokoll zum sequentiellen Injizieren von Flüssigkeiten, bei dem 3 Farbstofflösungen aus 3 separaten Reservoirs injiziert werden.
Abbildung 5 zeigt das auf OxyGEN implementierte Protokoll. Die implementierte Flussrate beträgt 500 µL/min während des gesamten Experiments. Wir haben die folgende Sequenz durchgeführt:
- Zurücksetzen aller Drücke
- Flussrate bei 500 µL/min
- 2-X auf Position 1 setzen (gewährleistet die richtige Positionierung beim Start des Protokolls)
- M-X auf Position 1 setzen, 30 s warten
- M-X auf Position 2 setzen, 30 s warten
- M-X an Position 3 einstellen, 30 s warten
- 2-X auf Position 2 setzen
- 2-X auf Position 1 setzen
- M-X auf Position 1 einstellen, 30 s warten
- Druck auf 0 mbar einstellen
Das Video zeigt den Ablauf des Protokolls. Das Protokoll kann während des gesamten Prozesses überwacht werden. Echtzeitinformationen über Durchflussrate, Druck und Ventilstellung sind auf der Registerkarte “Live-Kontrolle” der OxyGEN Software verfügbar.
Abbildung 5 Screenshot der OxyGEN Software der ein typisches Fluidikprotokoll zeigtAbbildung 6: Video der OxyGEN-Software
### Reibungslose Integration durch Fluigent SDK
Wenn ein Protokoll vollständig validiert ist, können Benutzer das Fluigent SDK verwenden, das alle in OxyGEN verfügbaren Funktionen zusammenfasst. Dies gibt externen Anwendungen die Möglichkeit, Fluigent-Geräte zu integrieren.
Das SDK wurde in mehreren Programmiersprachen entwickelt, darunter LabVIEW, C++, C#.NET, Python und MATLAB. Nachfolgend sehen Sie das Python-Äquivalent des oben in unserer OxyGEN-Software implementierten Protokolls.
Abbildung 7 Schnappschuss des Fluigent SDK der ein typisches fluidisches Protokoll zeigt
## Unsere Fluidik-Module können Fluidik-Aufgaben für Milli- und Mikrofluidik-Anwendungen automatisieren
Die obigen Ergebnisse zeigen die Fähigkeiten des F-OEM in Verbindung mit den M-X- und 2-X-Ventilen von Fluigent. Zusammen ermöglichen diese Geräte eine leistungsstarke Automatisierung von Flüssigkeiten, die für Milli- und Mikrofluidikanwendungen wie Probenvorbereitung, Zellsortierung und allgemeines Liquid Handling erforderlich sind.
---
### [Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
**Published:** December 15, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What is digital PCR (dPCR)?
During the last decade digital-PCR (dPCR) has become one of the most prominent assays for analytical methods. dPCR carries out a single reaction within a sample as standard PCR, however, the sample is separated into a large number of partitions, and the reaction is carried out in each partition individually.
## What is droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) and how does it work?
Droplet digital PCR relies on the partitioning of the tested sample into **thousands of single samples** thanks to the [generation of droplets](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/ "generation of droplets"). For performing the assay, the sample volume is split in such a way that **each droplet contains either one or none of the target DNA** molecules. The droplets act as laboratory wells, each containing a sample, and being able to host a PCR reaction in within. Due to the small droplet volume, the PCR reaction runs very efficiently even from a single molecule. During amplification, a fluorescent dye is formed or activated. The positive droplets become fluorescent. Absolute quantitation of the number of target molecules is simplified to the count of fluorescence active droplets in the generated droplet collection. ddPCR is an excellent example of a transition of a microfluidic system from the academic field to industry.
## What are the advantages of ddPCR?
The major advantage of droplet digital PCR is the **possibility to perform absolute quantitation of the number of target molecules**, which is simplified to the count of fluorescence active droplets in the generated droplet partition. The separation allows for more reliable collection and sensitive measurement of nucleic acid amounts. **Precision is drastically enhanced** \[1\], and no standard curves or calibration standards are necessary to assess the quantity of the sample of interest. The separation in multiple droplets containing nanoliters of reagent drastically reduces the time and reagents needed to perform a classical PCR reaction. This allows to **reduce consumable and reagent costs**, which makes it a one-of-a-kind cost effective method.
## Main applications using droplet digital PCR technology
### Liquid biopsy
Liquid biopsies are non-invasive tests performed on blood samples to detect cancer cells circulating in the blood (circulating tumor cells, CTCs) or pieces of DNA from tumor cells in the blood. This technique is increasingly used for cancer detection and monitoring, as it is low risk for the patient and helps doctors understand what kind of molecular changes are taking place in the tumor. Droplet Digital PCR (ddPC) provides the level of sensitivity required for liquid biopsy.
### Copy number variation
A key measurement challenge in diagnostic research involves identifying small changes in nucleic acid sequence that are commonly associated with genetic diseases. Changes in the genomic DNA leading to an abnormal copy of a DNA sequence are called copy number variations (CNVs). They are present in complex diseases such as Down’s Syndrome and many cancers.
### Pathogen Detection and Microbiome Analysis
Droplet digital PCR is extensively used in microbiology.. Digital PCR’s ability to amplify low concentration targets in complex backgrounds and show higher sensitivity than standard PCR makes it the technology choice for microbiome analysis.
## Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies OEM Case Study: Microfluidic Drug Screening Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics for vaccine development Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-for-vaccines-research-and-development/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes High-throughput cell DNA screening using digital PCR Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/high-throughput-cell-dna-screening-using-digital-pcr/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## Importance of fluid handling for droplet digital PCR applications
****Droplet digital PCR**** relies on random distribution of dPCR mix containing target molecules on the partition of equivalent volumes (here, the droplets). In this way, some partitions contain no target molecules, while the remaining partitions contain at least one molecule. Partitions are next categorized and counted as positive or negative depending on their fluorescence intensity. The calculations are derived from a Poisson model, which can be impacted by partition volume since the model assumes the partition to be monodisperse. As a consequence, a heterogeneous droplet population can affect the droplet digital PCR process. In fact, several groups demonstrated through different studies that partition droplet volume variability can cause a bias on the accuracy of the measurements.
More information can be found in the paper written by Emslie *et al.*: [Droplet Volume Variability and Impact on Digital PCR Copy Number Concentration Measurements](https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.analchem.8b05828) The impact of flow rate on droplet size using a microfluidic system is today well described in the literature. Thus, to avoid heterogeneous droplet populations that can affect the droplet digital PCR process, one should consider using a precise flow controller.
Figure 1 Droplet volume characterization after production2 2 A smaller S and larger l droplet in a digital PCR microfluidic device3
## Flow control systems for industrial digital PCR
[**Flow rate stability**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) is thus critical for having repeatable reactor volumes and reproducible results in droplet digital PCR experiments. Syringe pumps are commonly used for generating droplets. Depending on the model in use, syringe pumps show limited flow control. As a consequence, the droplet size, proportional to the flow rate, is affected. In addition, the actual flow rate cannot be monitored with such devices. The flow rate value is displayed on the device, but no information on the time required for reaching a set flow rate is given (the time for flow equilibrium may vary depending on the microfluidic setup, and flow can oscillate depending on the instrument). An alternative to syringe pumps is [**pressure-based flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/digital-pcr/). These show that high-precision flow control, fast reaction time, and flow monitoring are possible.
We compared the [production of water-in-oil emulsions using microfluidic syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources/microfluidicexpertise/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidic/droplet-generation-comparison/ "production of water-in-oil emulsions using microfluidic syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers.") Using pressure control, the desired droplet size is quickly obtained (< 6 s), and monodisperse droplet generation is ensured over time. Thus pressure controllers are the instruments of choice for droplet digital PCR.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/resources/microfluidicexpertise/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidic/droplet-generation-comparison/)
## The benefits of choosing Fluigent for your ddPCR system
- Best in class stability: < 0.5% due to our field-proven, patented FASTAB™ technology allowing optimal flow control with the robustness required in demanding industrial environments.
- Straightforward workflow automation included in [ Fluigent’s software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/sdk/)
- An expert engineering time specializing in microfluidic design and mechanical and software integration
## References
1\. Whale, A. S. *et al.* Comparison of microfluidic digital PCR and conventional quantitative PCR for measuring copy number variation. *Nucleic Acids Research***40**, (2012).
2\. Emslie, K. R. *et al.* Droplet volume variability and impact on digital pcr copy number concentration measurements. *Analytical Chemistry***91**, 4124–4131 (2019).
3\. Emslie, K. R. *et al.* *Supporting information Droplet volume variability and impact on digital PCR copy number concentration measurements Author names and affiliations*.
---
### [Microfluidic Drug Discovery ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/)
**Published:** November 2, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Main applications in microfluidic drug discovery
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/)### Target selection and validation (drug synthesis)
When developing a drug target, protein structural and affinity studies are needed for target selection and validation, and protein interactions within cells must be studied. Single-cell protein quantitation, protein analysis in [**nanoliter droplets**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/), and high-sensitivity ligand-binding interactions can be performed using microfluidic devices.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)### Hit identification and optimization (drug screening)
In microfluidics for drug development, the potential pool size of drug candidates is estimated to be of the order of 1063. [**Microfluidic drug screening**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/) devices, including high-throughput microfluidic multiplexed systems that contain thousands of micrometer chambers, microwell arrays, or microvalves perform high-throughput screening studies with higher sensitivity and shorter reaction times while decreasing reagents volumes and costs.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)### Preclinical studies (drug evaluation)
In recent years, alternatives to animal experimentation have become a research hotspot. In microfluidic drug discovery, [**organs-on- chips**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) and [**organoids**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/) are widely used as alternatives as they emulate the architectural and functional complexity of native organs. These systems also enable the exploration of facets of human disease and development that are not accurately recapitulated by animal models.
## Resources
## Flow Control Performance and Enhanced Automation for Microfluidic Drug Discovery Applications
- **Drug synthesis and droplet microfluidics:** When it comes to [droplet or particle generation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/), having control of the fluid delivery system is important. During droplet or particle production, the flow rate of each phase must remain constant and stable to allow the production of monodisperse droplets.
- As experts in fluid control for droplet microfluidics, Fluigent provides droplet generation packages and platforms for researchers. These seamlessly generate micrometer droplets for a wide range of applications. [Custom systems](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/) are also available to integrate technological and industrial devices.
- **Multiplexing for drug screening:** More than twenty reagents can be tested simultaneously when performing multiplexing applications on microfluidic devices. In microfluidic drug discovery, automated fluidic workflows are a prerequisite for drug screening. Fluigent developed the [Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) to **automate multiple fluid deliveries.** Reproducibility is improved through complete automation of the fluidic protocol. Fluigent is also able to develop a [custom system](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/) to fit user specifications and requirements.
- **Optimized shear stress and recirculation for organ on a chip studies and cell culture**: When performing drug evaluation on 2D/3D [cell culture and organs-on-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)s, cell culture should be optimized through constant perfusion to enable nutrients/oxygen renewal and by inducing adequate [passive stimulation through shear flow](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) as the effect is substantial on cell properties. Sterility on the fluidic path is also a prerequisite. Fluigent develops [fluid recirculating systems](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/) that perform unidirectional fluid recirculation, ensuring improved and more stable flow rates compared to peristaltic pumps. The system can run for 10 days. [Custom systems](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/) are also available for microfluidic drug discovery technology integration into industrial devices.
## Fluigent Solutions as an Alternative to Syringe Pumps for Better Performance and Automation
Flow rate **stability** and **responsiveness is critical** for the microfluidics for drug development applications. Syringe pumps are commonly used during this process. Depending on the model in use, [syringe pumps show limited flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/), and the actual flow rate cannot be monitored. In addition, injection volumes are limited by the syringe, and automation can thus be difficult. An alternative to syringe pumps is [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/). These show **high-precision flow control, fast reaction time, and flow monitoring: parameters which are paramount for microfluidic drug discovery applications.**
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources/microfluidicexpertise/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidic/droplet-generation-comparison/)
### The benefits of choosing Fluigent for your flow control system:
- Best in class stability: < 0.5% thanks to our field-proven, [patented FASTAB™ technology](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/) allowing optimal flow control with the robustness required in demanding industrial environments
- Workflow automation becomes straightforward with the Fluigent SDK and software included in the system
- Our engineering team members are experts in microfluidic design, mechanical and software integration, and biology applications
## Related resources
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
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Microfluidics Case Studies### OEM Case Study: Microfluidic Drug Screening
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key considerations for fluidic system integration
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
---
### [Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
**Published:** December 16, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What is cell encapsulation?
Cell encapsulation refers to the technique during which one or several cells are integrated into a three-dimensional extracellular matrix. It was first used in the 1950s to try to create a protective layer around cells to facilitate transplantation processes. Over time, it got recognized as a suitable technique for many more purposes. During this process, cells are carried through a named reagent to then be included in the chosen matrix, which depends on the final use of the encapsulated cells. It has many advantages for various applications such as next-generation sequencing, 3D cell culture, or drug delivery.
## Main applications of live cell encapsulation
### Next-generation sequencing (NGS) for single cell analysis
Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has been crucial in the study of biological heterogeneity and for the characterization of rare cell types. Several techniques exist to **obtain single cells for RNA sequencing**. The production of **highly monodispersed emulsions makes microfluidics an excellent tool for single-cell analysis & cell encapsulation**. This provides a substantial increase in throughput, with a reduction in cost. Cells and barcode-containing beads/hydrogels are co-encapsulated in a droplet, allowing one to **label all the RNA from each cell with a unique barcode** such that after pooling and sequencing, each read is mapped back to its cell of origin.
### 3D cell culture
In vitro cell culture is a fundamental component of biological production systems and biotechnological research. Using microfluidics permits **the development of** [**3D cell culture models using cell encapsulation**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/). It allows for **better replication of native cell microenvironment,** which can be particularly adapted for [drug screening](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/). Indeed, mimicking the cells’ natural environment allows them to adopt a behavior and a drug response closer to the one in vivo, and therefore to better evaluate the effect of a given molecule on our body. In fact, traditional cell culture methods using petri dishes or culture flasks show limitations, including the difficulty to compartmentalize clones and single cells. The technique allows one to **perform single or multiple-cell encapsulation** into droplets of **pL volume** which are generated at a rate of **thousands per second**.
### Encapsulation for drug delivery
Micro (and nano) particles for drug delivery bring advantages of: **precise dosage, site-specific drug release and delivery, more homogeneous distribution** in the physiological environment. Drug delivery applications usually rely on **highly monodispersed (<5%) particles** for proper efficiency. Microparticles, microspheres, and microcapsules serve as multiunit drug delivery systems that offer numerous advantages based on their structural and functional abilities. Their application is suitable for convenient and tolerable drug administration via several routes. Different sites and biological components can be targeted depending on the size of the particle. Cell encapsulation can also be used in the context of drug delivery as cells allow the release of molecules on a long-term basis, continuously.
## Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Microfluidics Case Studies
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Microfluidics Case Studies OEM Case Study: Microfluidic Drug Screening Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
## The importance of a stable flow rate for optimized encapsulation of cells
When it comes to droplet or particle generation, **having a total control over fluid flow is important**. During droplet or particle production the flow rate of each phase must remain constant and stable to allow the production of monodisperse droplet. The [**ability to precisely control the flow rate**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/) of each phase allows one to **regulate the size of the droplet** and particle generated, the **production frequency** and the **encapsulation efficiency** when it comes to cell encapsulation or barcoded bead encapsulation.
In this context there are several systems and methods available to control fluids for droplet and particle generation using microfluidics.
## Pressure as the gold standard for microfluidic droplet generation
Flow rate stability is critical for having repeatable reactor volumes and reproducible results during cell encapsulation process. Syringe pumps are commonly used for generating droplets. [Syringe pumps show limited ability](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/) to control flow rates. As a result, the droplet size is affected.
Additionally, the actual flow rate cannot be well controlled with such devices. The flow rate value is displayed on the device, but no information on the time required for reaching a set flow rate is given (the time for flow equilibrium may vary depending on the microfluidic setup. Flow rate can also oscillate.
An alternative to syringe pumps is [**pressure-based flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). These provide high-precision flow control, and fast response times.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/)
## Flow control systems and Fluigent added value
We [**compared the production of water-in-oil emulsions**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/) using syringe pumps and [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). Using pressure control, the desired droplet size is quickly obtained (< 6 s), and monodisperse droplet generation is ensured over time.
[More information here](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertises/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## The benefits of choosing Fluigent for your flow control system:
- Best in class stability: 0.1% on the measured value thanks to our field-proven, patented FASTAB™ technology allowing for optimal flow control with the reliability required in demanding industrial environments
- Workflow automation becomes straightforward with [Fluigent software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/sdk/ "Fluigent software")
- Our engineering team are experts in microfluidic design, mechanical and software integration as well as biology and application knowledge
## Related applications
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Water analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/water-treatment/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Food Industry: Food Testing & Agriculture
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Life Science
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Pharmaceutical Applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/)
---
### [Localization microscopy and flow control for multiplexing ](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/localization-microscopy/)
**Published:** May 17, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## The perfect flow management solution dedicated to your localization microscopy application
Fluigent’s software-controlled, automated, and fully integrated solution is **the only commercial system** that offers sequential injection for multiplexed localization microscopy capabilities. We also offer customization services based on our standard sequential injection device, [Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/), to perfectly fit your requirements (hardware, software, branding, etc.).
Moreover, our sequential injection solutions provide the added benefits of:
- Automation and flexible configuration of fluidics sequences
- Easy integration through our software and SDK
- Best performance through Fluigent’s pressure-driven technology
[See our offer](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/localization-microscopy/#offer)
## What is single-molecule localization microscopy?
Single-molecule localization microscopy (often called SMLM) describes a family of powerful imaging techniques that dramatically improve spatial resolution over standard microscopy techniques and can capture images of biological structures at the molecular scale1.
In single-molecule localization microscopy, individual fluorescent molecules are computationally localized, and the localizations are used to generate a super-resolution image. Sub-applications include oligo and refresh STORM, DNA PAINT, multiplexed antibody labeling, [cell biology](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/), neuroscience research, and others.
## Why is microfluidics used for SMLM?
A typical single-molecule localization microscopy workflow includes fluorescent labeling, sample preparation, and image acquisition in fixed and live cells.
### 1- Increase labeling targets
Applications are developing in localization microscopy where the number of targets for imaging far outstrips the number of probes that can be chromatically separated. Sequential labeling with microfluidics allows for a much larger number of targets to be addressed.
### 2- Reduce protocol failure and secure reproducibility
In addition to being extremely time-consuming, manual injection or standard pipetting can harm biological samples for such applications:
- Disparate injections increase variability (5.7% intra-individual imprecision and 8.1% inter-individual imprecision for pipetting 10 µL)
- Turbulent flow can damage the sample
- Touching container sides can cause contamination
- Pipetting with an angle, failure to pre-wet tip, and tip wiping can increase chances of under-delivery and loss of sample.
Microfluidics allows users to overcome the above limitations as it permits the delivery of highly controlled microliter flow rates (down to a few nL/min, with an accuracy < 5% m.v) in a fully automated manner.
Major discoveries enabled by single molecule localization microscopy
## How Fluigent empowers localization microscopy
Building a microfluidic multiplexing system for sequential labeling requires expertise in microfluidic fluid management, electronics, and software, which demand dedicated engineering resources, time, and money. For instance, for sequential injection, after evaluating the physics of flow control, users must gather [fluid delivery components](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/), [microfluidic valves](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/),electronics, and other equipment. In addition, software is required to automate the flow control for microscopy.
### 1- Fluigent has developed custom, on-demand multiplexing systems and OEM Automation Workflows dedicated to localization microscopy and live cell imaging.
The different functionalities developed that are related to our development are described below. They can be reused as bricks in a [custom project](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/) and/or combined with our other modules. See why customers chose Fluigent for automating their sequential labelling workflow.
[Know more about project customization](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/)
### 2- Improved flow performance via Fluigent’s patented pressure-driven flow management
#### Strong stability to ensure sample viability
Our devices include Fluigent’s pressure-based flow control technology. Using pressure-driven flow control, the sample is smoothly injected into a microfluidic system. As there are no mechanical parts in contact with the fluids, pressure controllers can establish pulseless flows that cannot be obtained with peristaltic pumps, or even the most accurate syringe pump. Using Fluigent controllers, pressure stability with < 0.1% CV is obtained. This allows a new level of stability that is required for emerging applications. The graphs below show perfusion comparisons between Fluigent controllers and peristaltic and syringe pumps.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/aria-peristaltic.jpg)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/04/flow-settling-time-syringe-pump-vs-pessure-controller.png)The user can choose the flow rate, the volume, and the time of delivery of each solution independently. Then, the system autonomously performs the protocol and can stay stable for long-term processes.
#### Flow rate features dedicated to microscopy applications
The addition of an on-off valve in the device guarantees that the flow is stopped when the user orders it to perform imaging. As illustrated by the adjacent graph, when using cut flow technology, the flow rate immediately stops when the desired volume is injected, preventing backflows.
Preventing backflow during incubation steps enables the microfluidic sequential injection system to switch quickly between injection and incubation steps, which is advantageous for microscopy studies. Another valve at the output just before the chip or the chamber allows the flow to run either towards it or towards the waste to flush the tubing between two successive injections. This valve is also useful for automated calibration and priming.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/techno-aria-interieur-sans-couleur.png)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/techno-aria-graphe-stop-flow.jpg)
### 3- High-multiplexing capabilities through in-house microfluidic valve integration & automation
To offer multiplexing capabilities to our microscopy users, we developed **automated sequential injection** **systems** based on the integration and automation of several [microfluidic valves](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/) (such as 11-port/10-way rotary valve, 3/2-way valves). They are accompanied by tailor-made electronics that ease connectivity and maintenance and mechanical integration that minimizes risks such as bubble formation and improves ergonomics. They are all controlled by our algorithm to work together with our flow control components in the most efficient and performant way and are integrated into a setup to obtain a fully automated system.
With such systems, several buffer reservoirs can be swapped out during an experimental workflow, enabling the multiplexing of many labels in one experiment. This makes it optimal for localization microscopy applications.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/customization-of-complex-systems-3-scaled.jpg)*Figure *1* Example of integration of a distribution valve in a microfluidic sequential injection system*
### 4- SDK and software for saving time, ease of use, and seamless OEM integration
Fluigent has developed [software](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/) functions dedicated to multiplexing applications that allow users to fully automate liquid handling sequences for microscopy use. The perfusion device can automatically perform any perfusion protocol, offering the following benefits:
- Ability to fit any experimental design for accurate and reproducible preparation of samples for fluorescence microscopy
- Intuitive, time-saving, and easy to use: iIndividual methods can be created, saved, and recalled quickly for a run
- Enables long-term perfusion studies such as multicolor PAINT imaging
**The features include:**
- Flow management functions: volume injection, timed injection, reservoir selection, liquid flushing, etc.
- Sequencing functions: wait, wait for user, wait for TTL, Group, Loop
- Protocol loading & saving functions
- Data recording function
- TTL and TCP/IP functions
- Communication with external systems and wait for their signals as part of the protocols to perform other imaging processes while the perfusion protocol is paused
- Error functions (feedback on errors encountered during the protocol)
The standard software version is included in our [end-user automated sequential injection system, Aria.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) Aria software gathers all the above functions, and provides an easy-to-use interface, allowing users to add flow management functions to create a complete fluidic protocol, seamlessly.
## We provide a complete offer to address all your localization microscopy needs
### 1- Standard sequential injection system
We provide an on the shelf, ready-to order multiplexing dedicated to localization microscopy that allows the following benefits:
- Deliver up to 10 solutions
- Automate any protocols
- Dedicated Fluigent software and [SDK](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/ "Custom Software Development")
- Single output (1 sample) and serial output (9 samples) versions
**Other available features:**
- Local control thanks to a control panel
- Night mode to allow its use in a dark room for fluorescent microscopy
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
### 2 – Software
To provide a fully functional solution dedicated to your application, we can adapt our software to your needs. This includes custom interfaces and functional modifications. [Software ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/ "Software ")can be adapted to meet new requirements on pressure/flow rate couples, internal volumes, and additional functions for communication with your devices, which can include additional warnings, security functions, can be implemented. Software can also be customized to fit your company’s corporate identity charter.
### 3 – Fully custom system: from idea to production
If one requires a brand-new flow management system dedicated to his microcopy setup, we offer flexible, [custom microfluidic device development](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/ "custom microfluidic device development") to provide the system you envision. Custom functionalities can be added according to your needs and the modules included (integrated microscope module, temperature control, liquid mixing, flow sensors…).
By partnering with us, customers benefit from Fluigent’s portfolio of products, technologies, patents, and 15 years of experience with microfluidic technology. We combine our expertise and knowledge to design and manufacture the highest quality custom microfluidic devices. Partner with Fluigent to accelerate your product time to market.
- **Most flexible solution**
- **Fluigent expertise**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/localization-microscopy-and-sequential-injection.png)
## Reference
Lelek, M. *et al.* Single-molecule localization microscopy. *Nature Reviews Methods Primers* vol. 1 Preprint at https://doi.org/10.1038/s43586-021-00038-x (2021).
## Related expertise
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### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
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### DFC, “Self-Learning” Microfluidic Flow Control Algorithm
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key considerations for fluidic system integration
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
---
## Resources
### [A Microfluidic approach for modeling the blood-brain tumor barrier](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/modeling-blood-brain-tumor-barrier/)
**Published:** August 5, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Key Takeaways
- The blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB) forms when tumor cells disrupt the BBB, creating a leaky, heterogeneous vasculature that limits effective drug delivery to brain tumors.
- Researchers at Delft University of Technology and the ErasmusMC Cancer Institute used two-photon polymerization (2PP) to fabricate microporous capillary scaffolds (µPCs) with vessel-scale dimensions (40-50 µm).
- The µPC platform supports co- and tri-culture of endothelial cells, pericytes, and glioma cells, closely reproducing the cellular complexity of the BBTB.
- Fluigent’s pressure-driven flow control (Flow EZ and Flow Unit sensors) delivered stable, physiologically relevant shear stress (6.5-7.8 dyn/cm²) to the model under dynamic culture conditions.
- The resulting in vitro model offers a reproducible, physiologically relevant tool for studying BBTB biology and testing drug candidates for brain tumors.
## The blood-brain tumor barrier in brain cancer
Under normal conditions, the **physiological characteristics of the BBB prevent the leakage** **of molecules** due to the presence of tight junctions between the endothelial cells. The only molecules that can passively diffuse across the BBB are gases (ex: oxygen and carbon dioxide) and small lipid-soluble molecules with a low molecular weight (<400 Da) \[4\]. The transporters are located at the abluminal and luminal phases of the endothelial cells \[5\].
Brain tumors are a heterogeneous group of CNS neoplasms classified as either primary, originating within the brain, or secondary, resulting from the metastasis of peripheral tumors. **Glioblastoma** is the most common primary malignant brain tumor in adults, carrying a median overall survival of approximately 15 months despite aggressive therapy \[6\]. During tumor progression, **the BBB is disrupted and presents aberrant angiogenesis, leading to a leaky barrier known as the blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB) \[7\].** The BBTB is also characterized by aberrant pericyte distribution, which are perivascular cells essential for maintaining BBB integrity, and loss of astrocytic endfeet \[8\].
Primary brain tumors, including gliomas, disrupt the BBB’s integrity by altering normal vascular architecture \[9\]. Regarding metastatic brain tumors, the BBB is partially disrupted, with functional efflux transporters limiting drug delivery into the parenchyma**. In this context, the successful treatment of the patient is challenging (Figure 1) \[10\].**
*Figure *1*: Comparison of the neurovascular unit of the blood-brain barrier and blood-brain tumor barrier *\[11\]*.*
## Modeling the blood-brain tumor barrier
The BBB is the main interface between the blood and the brain parenchyma. The main process of vascular network growth and remodeling takes place after the initiation of blood circulation. **The BBB is exposed to mechanical forces derived from the blood flow, including shear stress, axial stress, and circumferential stress. These hemodynamic forces significantly affect the mechanics and morphology of brain blood vessels \[12, 13\].** In brain tumors, abnormal vascular architecture alters local flow patterns and contributes to the heterogeneous permeability characteristic of the BBTB \[3\]. **It’s crucial to include these forces to recreate a pertinent BBTB model.**
**Nowadays, the *in vitro* modeling of the BBB and BBTB remains challenging because of its complexity.** Existing preclinical models mainly consist of two-dimensional cell cultures and animal studies; however, both approaches fail to fully recapitulate human physiology, disease complexity or have limited throughput\[14\]. Microfluidic cell cultures have become essential to recreate accurate *in vitro* models of the BBTB. Microfluidic systems offer precise control of the fluid and allow to provide a dynamic microenvironment and the shear stress needed to mimic physiological conditions. **Exposing endothelial cells to flow for the modeling of the BBB helps maintain cell morphology, function, and barrier properties \[15\].** Regarding the modeling of the BBTB, it is difficult to recreate the cell complexity of the barrier and the geometry of the vessels of the brain.
## Why was a new blood-brain tumor barrier model needed?
**Paper: N. Barin *et al.*, “Two-Photon Polymerized Microvascular Environments for Multicellular Modeling of the Blood-Brain Tumor Barrier,” *ADVANCED MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES,* vol. 11, no. 8, 2026-01-16 2026, doi: 10.1002/admt.202502614.**
To overcome the limitations of the already available models, associate professor Angelo Accardo, PhD student Nastaran Barin and professor Pim French from **Delft University of Technology and the ErasmusMC Cancer Institute (The Netherlands)**, set out to develop a more physiologically relevant BBTB model.
In their [study](https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.202502614) published in **Advanced Materials Technologies** in 2026, and featured on its [cover](https://doi.org/10.1002/admt.70917), the researchers employed **two-photon polymerization (2PP)** to fabricate **ultrafine vascular scaffolds** with precisely engineered pores, enabling both human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (hCMECs) to proliferate throughout the **microporous capillary network**. In addition to these endothelial cells, they successfully established a **co- and tri-culture** with pericytes and glioma cells \[16\].
## Methodology: How to model a 3D blood-brain tumor barrier in dynamic conditions
**The BBTB dynamic model developed in this study is based on 2PP** to form a designed platform that includes a precise geometry for the vessel formation. The platform is based on a microporous tube-like capillary scaffold (µPC) (Figure 2), that guides the attachment and growth of the endothelial cells. The diameter chosen (40-50 µm) in this study is close to the dimensions of brain capillaries of the BBTB (15-30 µm). µPCs were fabricated directly inside a microfluidic chip by 2PP using a Nanoscribe Photonic Professional GT+ printer and IP-Visio, a methacrylate photosensitive polymer, which is biocompatible and low-autofluorescent. Different fabrication workflows were applied for single- and dual-channel chips, combining dip-in laser lithography (DiLL) and oil-immersion configurations to accommodate chip geometry and seal the structures.
To ensure **precise and stable control of both fluidic and mechanical conditions**, the system relies on pressure-driven flow provided by Fluigent flow control solutions. In this setup, the [**Flow EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) is used to generate a [**shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) required to reproduce physiological conditions at the BBTB. Moreover, the setup included one [**Fluigent Flow Unit sensors**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) for real-time [monitoring of flow rates upstream](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) of the chip.
To explore the potential for dynamic cell culture applications, 2PP-fabricated µPCs and support structures are fabricated directly into commercially available microfluidic chips. This integration is carried out using two different types of microfluidic chips (Figure [**2A,B**](https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.202502614#admt70712-fig-0005)). The first type is a single-channel chip that allows direct flow inside the µPCs (Figure [**2A**](https://advanced.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/admt.202502614#admt70712-fig-0005)), where endothelial cells and culture medium are introduced via the same channel. In the dual-channel chip configuration (Figure 2B), one channel provides access to the external surface of µPCs and is used to introduce endothelial cells.. **The second channel enables internal fluid flow through the µPCs, exposing the inner surface of endothelial cells to media under physiological flow conditions.** HUVECs or hCMECs were seeded in the structures previously coated with a solution of 5% collagen type I and **cultured under static or dynamic conditions.**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/08/design-and-fabrication-of-3d-µpcs.jpg)*Figure *2*: Design and fabrication of 3D µPCs. Schematics of the **single-channel** (A) and **dual-channel** (B–C) microfluidic chip designs, illustrating internal and external perfusion capabilities and the potential for multicellular culture. Images of the fabricated **single-channel chip** (D–G) and **dual-channel chip** (H–J), including optical views of the 2PP-fabricated µPCs, supporting walls, flow direction, and µPC inlets.*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/08/microfluidic-setup-for-dual-channel-chips.jpg)*Figure *3*: Microfluidic setup for dual-channel chips. A) Complete setup with chip, reservoir, waste container, flow sensor, and tubing placed inside the incubator. B) Zoomed-in view of the microfluidic chip connected to tubing for flow culture. C) Schematic illustration of inlet and outlet tubing connections used to maintain continuous flow.*
## Results: A pertinent development of *in vitro* BBTB using the µPC platform
The first step of this study was to characterize the cells on the µPCs in static conditions to study the development of the *in vitro* vessel-like structures and the impact of glioma cells on the model. **The tri-culture system comprised endothelial cells (hCMEC/D3), pericytes, and glioma cells (U87) to form a pertinent and complex BBTB model.** After 8 days of culture, the cellular organization within the system was visualized using immunofluorescence staining of cell-specific markers and confocal microscopy.
The presence of CD31-positive cells (Figure 4A) indicates the presence of endothelial cells lining the scaffold. This adhesion protein is involved in maintaining BBB integrity \[17\]. Moreover, positive staining for PDGFR-β, a marker expressed by mural cells, confirmed the successful adhesion and perivascular localization of pericytes around the endothelial cells within the µPCs while **preserving the integrity of the vessel-like architecture**. In the context of BBTB modeling, the incorporation of glioma cells was further validated by the detection of S100-positive cells, confirming their **successful attachment to the model** (Figure 4B). The quantitative analysis of the CD31 intensity between monoculture and co-culture conditions (Figure 4C) highlighted that **the presence of glioma cells disrupted the endothelial junctions also in the presence of stabilizing pericytes, as reported in the literature \[3, 18\].**
*Figure *4*:* Endothelial barrier integrity on µPCs under static culture. Representative images of **pericyte–endothelial co-culture** (A) and **U87 glioma–endothelial–pericyte tri-culture** (B) on µPCs. (C) Quantification of **CD31 fluorescence intensity** in hCMEC/D3 cells from three independent experiments (n = 3).
Regarding the dynamic culture conditions, HUVEC cells were cultured using the [**Flow EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) pressure controller along with one [**Fluigent Flow Unit sensor (medium model)**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) to apply a relevant flow. To be close to the brain capillaries shear stress (1–15 dyn/cm2 \[19\]), the µPCs models were submitted to the flow rates and resulting wall shear stress values summarized in Table 1, which remained within the physiological range. Under biomimetic flow conditions in a single-channel perfusion, endothelial cells uniformly colonized the surfaces of the scaffold (Figure 5B, C and D). Using the dual-channel chip, strong CD31 signaling was visible, indicating the formation of intercellular junctions and endothelial identity (Figure 5G). Importantly, the **combination of the flow and the µPC platform** in a chip allows the development of pertinent vessel-like structures with a physiological shear stress.
**Parameter****µPC model** **Physiological reference** Vessel diameter 40–50 µm 15–30 µm (brain capillaries) Flow rate – single-channel chip 12 µL/min\_Flow rate – dual-channel chip 5 µL/min\_Wall shear stress – single-channel chip 7.8 dyn/cm² 1–15 dyn/cm² (physiological range) Wall shear stress – dual-channel chip 6.5 dyn/cm² 1–15 dyn/cm² (physiological range) *Table 1: Flow parameters applied to the µPC model and their physiological reference values.*
*Figure *5*:* Endothelial cell culture on 2PP-fabricated µPCs under dynamic flow. Optical images of the **single-channel** (A) and **dual-channel** (E) microfluidic chips showing flow direction. Representative immunofluorescence images of **HUVECs** (B–G) and **hCMEC/D3 cells** (H) cultured on µPCs under flow, demonstrating endothelial coverage of the 3D µPC surfaces with **CD31** or **actin** staining.
## Conclusion: the µPC platform is an efficient tool for BBTB modeling
In this study, researchers from Delft University of Technology and the ErasmusMC Cancer Institute (The Netherlands) developed a pertinent model to study the BBTB. Compared to existing *in vitro* models, the µPC platform combined with the microfluidic system offers several distinct advantages. Unlike conventional microfluidic chip-based systems, it provides capillary-scale vessel dimensions and direct access to both the luminal and abluminal sides of the endothelium. **The use of a pressure controller allows the exposure of the cells to a relevant shear stress, increasing the biomimetic properties of the system. µPC design enables highly controlled and reproducible vessel architecture with consistent flow dynamics.** Overall, the platform in dynamic conditions would be an essential tool for introducing additional cell types to increase the complexity of the model, test new drug candidates for brain tumors, and evaluate their passage through the BBTB.
## Frequently Asked Questions
### What is the blood-brain tumor barrier (BBTB)?
The BBTB is the altered, leaky vasculature that forms when tumor cells disrupt the blood-brain barrier (BBB). It is characterized by uneven permeability, aberrant pericyte distribution, and loss of astrocytic endfeet, which together limit how well drugs reach brain tumors.
### How did the researchers build the BBTB model?
The team used two-photon polymerization (2PP) to fabricate microporous capillary scaffolds (µPCs) with vessel-scale diameters (40–50 µm) directly inside microfluidic chips. Endothelial cells, pericytes, and glioma cells were then cultured on these scaffolds to reproduce the BBTB’s multicellular architecture.
### What role did flow control play in the model?
Fluigent’s pressure-driven Flow EZ controller and Flow Unit sensors delivered stable, tunable flow, exposing the endothelial cells to wall shear stresses of 6.5–7.8 dyn/cm², within the 1–15 dyn/cm² range measured in real brain capillaries.
### Why does this model matter for brain cancer research?
By combining capillary-scale geometry, multicellular co-culture, and physiological shear stress, the µPC platform gives researchers a more realistic tool to study BBTB biology and to test how well new drug candidates cross the barrier into brain tumors.
## Related Solutions
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
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## References
\[1\] R. Daneman and A. Prat, “The blood-brain barrier,” (in eng), *Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology,* vol. 7, no. 1, p. a020412, 2015/01/05/ 2015, doi: 10.1101/cshperspect.a020412.
\[2\] D. Wu, Q. Chen, X. Chen, F. Han, Z. Chen, and Y. Wang, “The blood-brain barrier: structure, regulation, and drug delivery,” *SIGNAL TRANSDUCTION AND TARGETED THERAPY,* vol. 8, no. 1, 2023-05-25 2023, Art no. 217, doi: 10.1038/s41392-023-01481-w.
\[3\] C. Arvanitis, G. Ferraro, and R. Jain, “The blood-brain barrier and blood-tumour barrier in brain tumours and metastases,” *NATURE REVIEWS CANCER,* vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 26-41, 2020-01-01 2020, doi: 10.1038/s41568-019-0205-x.
\[4\] W. A. Banks and C. L. Farrell, “Impaired transport of leptin across the blood-brain barrier in obesity is acquired and reversible,” *American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism,* vol. 285, no. 1, 2003 Jul 01, doi: 10.1152/ajpendo.00468.2002.
\[5\] H. Kadry, B. Noorani, and L. Cucullo, “A blood–brain barrier overview on structure, function, impairment, and biomarkers of integrity,” *Fluids and Barriers of the CNS,* vol. 17, no. 1, p. 69, 2020/11/18/ 2020, doi: 10.1186/s12987-020-00230-3.
\[6\] J. Sung and K. Hwang, “Glioblastoma: epidemiology, molecular pathogenesis, diagnosis, management, and therapeutic resistance,” *MOLECULAR BIOMEDICINE,* vol. 7, no. 1, 2026-05-08 2026, Art no. 63, doi: 10.1186/s43556-026-00467-8.
\[7\] S. Liebner, R. M. Dijkhuizen, Y. Reiss, K. H. Plate, D. Agalliu, and G. Constantin, “Functional morphology of the blood-brain barrier in health and disease,” (in eng), *Acta Neuropathologica,* vol. 135, no. 3, pp. 311-336, 2018/03// 2018, doi: 10.1007/s00401-018-1815-1.
\[8\] L. Dubois *et al.*, “Gliomas and the vascular fragility of the blood brain barrier,” *FRONTIERS IN CELLULAR NEUROSCIENCE,* vol. 8, 2014-12-12 2014, Art no. 418, doi: 10.3389/fncel.2014.00418.
\[9\] M. Ahmed, M. Canney, A. Carpentier, and A. Idbaih, “International meeting of the French society of neurology 2023 Overcoming the blood brain barrier in glioblastoma: Status and future perspective,” *REVUE NEUROLOGIQUE,* vol. 179, no. 5, pp. 430-436, 2023-05-15 2023, doi: 10.1016/j.neurol.2023.03.013.
\[10\] D. Masri *et al.*, “The Role of Blood-Brain Barrier in Brain Cancer: From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Approaches,” *CANCER CONTROL,* vol. 33, 2026-01-01 2026, Art no. 10732748261443870, doi: 10.1177/10732748261443870.
\[11\] B. Allen and C. Limoli, “Breaking barriers: Neurodegenerative repercussions of radiotherapy induced damage on the blood-brain and blood-tumor barrier,” *FREE RADICAL BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE,* vol. 178, pp. 189-201, 2021-12-09 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2021.12.002.
\[12\] I. E. Hoefer, B. den Adel, and M. J. A. P. Daemen, “Biomechanical factors as triggers of vascular growth,” (in eng), *Cardiovascular Research,* vol. 99, no. 2, pp. 276-283, 2013/07/15/ 2013, doi: 10.1093/cvr/cvt089.
\[13\] P. Campinho, A. Vilfan, and J. Vermot, “Blood Flow Forces in Shaping the Vascular System: A Focus on Endothelial Cell Behavior,” *Frontiers in Physiology,* vol. 11, p. 552, 2020/06/05/ 2020, doi: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00552.
\[14\] D. Stanimirovic, M. Bani-Yaghoub, M. Perkins, and A. Haqqani, “Blood-brain barrier models: in vitro to in vivo translation in preclinical development of CNS-targeting biotherapeutics,” *EXPERT OPINION ON DRUG DISCOVERY,* vol. 10, no. 2, pp. 141-155, 2015-02-01 2015, doi: 10.1517/17460441.2015.974545.
\[15\] L. Cucullo, M. Hossain, V. Puvenna, N. Marchi, and D. Janigro, “The role of shear stress in Blood-Brain Barrier endothelial physiology,” *BMC NEUROSCIENCE,* vol. 12, 2011-05-11 2011, Art no. 40, doi: 10.1186/1471-2202-12-40.
\[16\] N. Barin *et al.*, “Two-Photon Polymerized Microvascular Environments for Multicellular Modeling of the Blood-Brain Tumor Barrier,” *ADVANCED MATERIALS TECHNOLOGIES,* vol. 11, no. 8, 2026-01-16 2026, doi: 10.1002/admt.202502614.
\[17\] I. Wimmer *et al.*, “PECAM-1 Stabilizes Blood-Brain Barrier Integrity and Favors Paracellular T-Cell Diapedesis Across the Blood-Brain Barrier During Neuroinflammation,” (in en), *Frontiers in Immunology,* vol. 10, 2019 2019, doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.00711.
\[18\] F. Mo, A. Pellerino, R. Soffietti, and R. Ruda, “Blood-Brain Barrier in Brain Tumors: Biology and Clinical Relevance,” *INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES,* vol. 22, no. 23, 2021-12-01 2021, Art no. 12654, doi: 10.3390/ijms222312654.
\[19\] X. Wang *et al.*, “Advances on fluid shear stress regulating blood-brain barrier,” *MICROVASCULAR RESEARCH,* vol. 128, 2020-03-01 2020, Art no. 103930, doi: 10.1016/j.mvr.2019.103930.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Understanding Two-Phase Flow with Microfluidic Porous Media Models ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidic-porous-media-models/)
**Published:** July 22, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Solutions used in this case study
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[Micronit porous media microfluidic chips ](https://micronit.com/products/microfluidic-chips/enhanced-oil-recovery-chips.html "Micronit porous media microfluidic chips ")
## The Challenges of Studying Multiphase Transport in Porous Systems
Fluid transport through porous materials plays a key role in applications including enhanced oil recovery (EOR), carbon capture and storage (CCS), geothermal energy, and groundwater remediation. In these systems, [fluid behavior](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/) is controlled by interactions between pore geometry, wettability, capillary forces, interfacial tension, and pressure gradients, which determine phase distribution and recovery efficiency. \[3,4\]
Studying these mechanisms remains challenging because they occur at small scales that are difficult to access with conventional techniques. Traditional approaches often provide bulk measurements but limited information about the local processes controlling fluid displacement, trapping, and redistribution. Understanding these relationships is therefore essential for improving predictive models and optimizing multiphase transport processes. \[3,4\]
Figure 1 Schematic definition of wettability in porous media with oilwaterrock system illustrating water wet oil wet and mixed wet conditions in terms of contact angle and capillary pressure 4
## What are microfluidic porous media models?
Microfluidic porous media models are transparent microfabricated chips containing engineered pore networks that replicate the structure of porous materials. They enable direct visualization and quantitative investigation of multiphase fluid flow under controlled laboratory conditions.
## Why Use Microfluidic Porous Media Models?
Microfluidic porous media models provide a controlled and transparent environment for studying fluid transport within engineered pore networks. By reproducing representative porous structures inside microfabricated chips, these platforms allow researchers to **investigate fluid interactions under well-defined experimental conditions.** \[5,6\]
Beyond porous media research, [microfluidics offers several general advantages:](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
- **Direct visualization of pore-scale phenomena** – Observe interface movement, phase redistribution, and fluid trapping mechanisms in real time. \[7,8\]
- **Precise experimental control** – Independently control parameters such as pressure, flow rate, fluid composition, wettability, and interfacial properties to study their influence on multiphase flow behavior. \[7,8\]
- **Low sample and reagent consumption** – Perform experiments using very small fluid volumes, **reducing material use and experimental costs**. \[6\]
- **Rapid experimentation** – Shorter experimental times enable faster screening of fluids, formulations, and operating conditions. \[6\]
- **High reproducibility** – Engineered pore geometries and controlled operating conditions improve experimental consistency compared with many conventional porous media methods. \[5,6\]
- **Parallel testing capabilities** – Evaluate multiple conditions simultaneously within a single microfluidic workflow, increasing experimental throughput. \[6\]
Figure 2 Example of studying wettability in microfluidics 7
## Aim of the Case Study
This case study presents how [Fluigent pressure-driven flow control systems](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) and [Micronit microfluidic chips](https://micronit.com/products/microfluidic-chips/enhanced-oil-recovery-chips.html) were used to investigate two-phase flow in porous structures through two complementary research approaches.
The first study, developed at the [Université de Bordeaux](https://sciences-ingenieur.u-bordeaux.fr/ufsdi/ecole-doctorale-des-sciences-physiques-et-de-lingenieur), demonstrates how microfluidic experiments can generate quantitative datasets for validating numerical models of multiphase transport. The second study, conducted at [Texas Tech University](https://www.depts.ttu.edu/pe/), focuses on understanding how wettability and interfacial properties influence fluid recovery mechanisms in an oil-wet porous network.
Together, these studies illustrate how microfluidic approaches contribute both to the development of predictive simulation tools and to the fundamental understanding of fluid behavior in porous systems.
## Materials and Methods: Building a Controlled Microfluidic Environment for EOR Research
The experimental workflow combined microfluidic chips, pressure-driven flow control, and microscopy imaging to study two-phase flow under controlled conditions (figure 3). The transparent networks enabled monitoring of fluid distribution and interface evolution, while image analysis provided quantitative information on phase saturation and displacement behavior.
Fluigent pressure-driven flow systems were used to regulate fluid injection and maintain stable experimental conditions. The Flow EZ (or MFCS™-EZ) pressure controller and Flow Units provided precise pressure control, real-time flow monitoring, and reproducible operation throughout the experiments.
Figure 3 Example of microfluidic setup for EOR 1
The microfluidic devices were fabricated by Micronit and designed to reproduce representative porous structures while preserving optical accessibility. Different chip architectures can be adapted to investigate various transport mechanisms in controlled environments as displayed on figure 4.
Figure 4 [Micronit microfluidic EOR chip designs Random Uniform and Physical rock](https://micronit.com/expertise/microfluidic-expertise/eor-chips-innovation)
### Proof of Concept 1 : Integrating Microfluidics and Numerical Modeling
Based on: Haohong Pi, *Experimental-Numerical Analysis of Two-Phase Flow within Microfluidic Chip Porous Media Models* (PhD Thesis), under the supervision of Dr. Abdelaziz Omari and Dr. Giuseppe Sciumè.
*A PhD Thesis from the Institut de Mécanique et d’Ingénierie (I2M), Université de Bordeaux – UMR CNRS 5295*
The research presented in this PhD thesis was conducted at the [Institut de Mécanique et d’Ingénierie (I2M)](https://sciences-ingenieur.u-bordeaux.fr/ufsdi/ecole-doctorale-des-sciences-physiques-et-de-lingenieur), a multidisciplinary CNRS laboratory at the Université de Bordeaux focused on mechanics, materials, and complex physical systems.
The institute combines experimental characterization, multiphysics modeling, and numerical simulation to investigate physical phenomena across multiple scales. Within this research environment, scientists develop approaches that connect experimental observations with computational methods to improve the understanding of complex transport processes. \[1\]
### Experimental Approach and PhD Research Outcomes
Researchers investigated how experimental observations obtained from **microfluidic porous media models** could be integrated with numerical simulations to **describe two-phase flow behavior.** The microfluidic platform reproduced representative porous structures under controlled conditions (Figure 5), while [Fluigent pressure-driven flow control systems (Flow EZTM) ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Fluigent pressure-driven flow control systems (Flow EZTM) ")enabled accurate regulation of fluid injection.
The experiments generated quantitative datasets describing phase distribution, interface evolution, and displacement dynamics. These measurements were compared with numerical predictions to evaluate model performance and identify the parameters influencing multiphase transport.
The results demonstrated that **microfluidic experiments can provide reliable reference** **data** for computational approaches, **improving the accuracy** of simulations and supporting the development of predictive models for complex porous systems (Figure 6).
Figure 5 Exterior view of the Micronits Physical Rock Network Chip left and Uniform Network Chip right Schematic representations of the geometric structures of the porous media and flow channels within the entire glass substrate 1
Figure 6 The distribution of residual oil in both types of chips during the waterflooding after injection of 6 PV at Q = 10 μLmin Oil is in red and brine in blue
### Proof of Concept 2: Investigating Wettability and Fluid Recovery Mechanisms
Based on: Tangirala, S. & Sheng, J. (2018), *Effects of Invasion of Water with and without Surfactant on the Oil Production and Flowback through an Oil-Wet Matrix—A Microfluidic Chip Based Study*.
*A Paper from the Bob L. Herd Department of Petroleum Engineering, Texas Tech University*
The research was conducted within the [Bob L. Herd Department of Petroleum Engineering](https://www.depts.ttu.edu/pe/) at Texas Tech University, which focuses on reservoir engineering, production optimization, and subsurface flow processes through experimental research and industry collaborations.
The study builds upon previous work performed with an initially **water-wet microfluidic porous media model.** By reproducing the same experimental protocol in an oil-wet microfluidic chip, the researchers aimed to better understand the mechanisms controlling oil displacement and recovery by investigating the influence of wettability and fluid properties within a controlled porous environment. \[2,9\]
### Experimental Approach and Research Findings
Researchers used an **oil-wet microfluidic porous media model** (Figure 7) to study how wettability and interfacial properties affect fluid invasion and recovery. The objective was to **reproduce key mechanisms involved in enhanced oil recovery,** particularly those governing oil mobilization and residual trapping during water injection and flowback.
Aqueous phase injection and recovery were performed under controlled pressure conditions using Fluigent flow control technology. Microscopy imaging and saturation measurements enabled researchers to evaluate fluid distribution and quantify recovery behavior throughout the process (Figure 7).
Figure 7 Oil wet microfluidic porous media model Micronit oil wet EOR microchip used to investigate how wettability influences oil recovery 2
The results showed that recovery efficiency decreased as invaded volume increased due to stronger capillary trapping and higher residual saturation. Changes in interfacial tension also influenced displacement behavior by modifying the balance between capillary and viscous forces (Figure 8).
Figure 8 Water as invaded fluid black showcasing the stitched microchip images after invasion left and after flowback right for different invasion efficiencies 2
These findings provided valuable insight into how wettability and fluid properties control multiphase transport and demonstrated the usefulness of microfluidic porous media models for studying enhanced oil recovery mechanisms.
## Key Takeaways
✓ Microfluidic porous media models enable direct visualization of pore-scale multiphase flow.
✓ Pressure-driven flow control provides stable and reproducible experimental conditions.
✓ Microfluidic chips generate quantitative datasets for validating numerical simulations.
✓ Wettability and interfacial tension strongly influence displacement efficiency and residual trapping.
✓ These miniaturized platforms accelerate research in enhanced oil recovery, carbon storage, and environmental engineering.
## Conclusion
These two studies demonstrate the versatility of microfluidic porous media models for investigating two-phase flow in porous materials. The Université de Bordeaux research showed how experimental data from microfluidic systems can strengthen numerical modeling approaches, while the Texas Tech University study revealed how wettability and interfacial properties influence fluid recovery and trapping mechanisms.
Together, these studies demonstrate how **combining pressure-driven flow control** with advanced **microfluidic porous media models** enables reproducible, quantitative investigation of multiphase transport. This integrated approach provides researchers with a powerful platform for developing predictive models and optimizing fluid recovery processes across energy and environmental applications.
## Why Fluigent’s pressure-driven flow controller?
Fluigent pressure controllers are designed to meet the demands of microfluidic porous media research, where stable and reproducible flow conditions are essential. Their pressure-based approach enables precise control of injection conditions while minimizing flow fluctuations, allowing accurate investigation of pore-scale displacement, capillary trapping, and wettability effects. Compatible with a variety of microfluidic chip designs, Fluigent systems help researchers perform reliable experiments that support both fundamental studies and the validation of numerical models for enhanced oil recovery and related applications.
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### Flow EZ™
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- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
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## Testimonial
“Fluigent has played a crucial role in helping us setup and achieve our microfluidic experiments at Texas Tech University’s Petroleum engineering research laboratory. Since we were assembling this unique lab-on-a-chip apparatus for the first time in the department, consulting with Fluigent’s USA team helped us effectively collaborate with them and Micronit, our supplier of microfluidic chips and chip holders. With Fluigent’s valuable support, we published three microfluidics-related scientific papers from our research in 2018-19 and also presented the work at SPWLA’s Boston Chapter during a workshop on Porous media: Structure, Flow and Dynamics in November 2019. The experimental setup and efforts were well received by the peers from Schlumberger-Doll Research Center and Aramco Research Center at Boston.”
**Srikanth Tangirala, Ph.D, Bob L. Herd Department of Petroleum Engineering, Texas Tech University**
Fluigent set up in lab enhanced oil recovery research
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
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## Bibliography
\[1\] H. Pi, ‘Experimental-numerical analysis of two-phase flow within microfluidic chip porous medium models’.
\[2\] S. Tangirala and J. Sheng, ‘Effects of Invasion of Water with and without Surfactant on the Oil Production and Flowback through an Oil Wet Matrix—A Microfluidic Chip Based Study’, *OJOGas*, vol. 03, no. 04, pp. 278–292, 2018, doi: [10.4236/ojogas.2018.34024](https://doi.org/10.4236/ojogas.2018.34024).
\[3\] K. Singh, M. Jung, M. Brinkmann, and R. Seemann, ‘Capillary-Dominated Fluid Displacement in Porous Media’, *Annual Review of Fluid Mechanics*, vol. 51, no. Volume 51, 2019, pp. 429–449, Jan. 2019, doi: [10.1146/annurev-fluid-010518-040342](https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-fluid-010518-040342).
\[4\] D. Podoprigora, R. Byazrov, and J. Sytnik, ‘The Comprehensive Overview of Large-Volume Surfactant Slugs Injection for Enhancing Oil Recovery: Status and the Outlook’, *Energies*, vol. 15, no. 21, Nov. 2022, doi: [10.3390/en15218300](https://doi.org/10.3390/en15218300).
\[5\] J. Avendaño, N. Lima, A. Quevedo, and M. Carvalho, ‘Effect of Surface Wettability on Immiscible Displacement in a Microfluidic Porous Media’, *Energies*, vol. 12, no. 4, Feb. 2019, doi: [10.3390/en12040664](https://doi.org/10.3390/en12040664).
\[6\] S. Gogoi and S. B. Gogoi, ‘Review on microfluidic studies for EOR application’, *J Petrol Explor Prod Technol*, vol. 9, no. 3, pp. 2263–2277, Sep. 2019, doi: [10.1007/s13202-019-0610-4](https://doi.org/10.1007/s13202-019-0610-4).
\[7\] A. AlOmier, M. Hoecherl, D. Cha, S. Ayirala, A. A. Yousef, and H. Hoteit, ‘Experimental Investigation of the Impact of Mixed Wettability on Pore-Scale Fluid Displacement: A Microfluidic Study’, *ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces*, vol. 16, no. 50, pp. 69165–69179, Dec. 2024, doi: [10.1021/acsami.4c13018](https://doi.org/10.1021/acsami.4c13018).
\[8\] ‘Wettability control on multiphase flow in patterned microfluidics | PNAS’. Accessed: Jun. 23, 2026. \[Online\]. Available:
\[9\] S. Tangirala and J. J. Sheng, ‘Investigation of oil production and flowback in hydraulically-fractured water-wet formations using the Lab-on-a-Chip method’, *Fuel*, vol. 254, p. 115543, Oct. 2019, doi: [10.1016/j.fuel.2019.05.126](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fuel.2019.05.126).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Controlled Flow System for Altering Cardiac Mechanical Load in Zebrafish Model](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/zebrafish-heart-model/)
**Published:** February 10, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Paper from Dalhousie University
Paper: Baillie, J. S.; Gendernalik, A.; Garrity, D. M.; Bark, D.; Quinn, T. A. The in Vivo Study of Cardiac Mechano-Electric and Mechano-Mechanical Coupling during Heart Development in Zebrafish. *Front. Physiol.* **2023**, *14*, 1086050.
This study is the result of a collaboration between the [Colorado State University](https://www.colostate.edu/), the [Washington University in St. Louis](https://washu.edu/), and the [Cardiac, Autoregulation & Arrhythmias Laboratory](https://quinnlaboratory.com/) at [Dalhousie University](https://www.dal.ca/). **Led by** [**Dr. Alexander Quinn**](https://quinnlaboratory.com/people)**, the lab is dedicated to understanding the intrinsic regulation of cardiac function and its role in deadly arrhythmias to advance the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.** Their research focuses on uncovering key autoregulation mechanisms, understanding their impact on heart rhythm, and applying these insights to develop targeted anti-arrhythmic therapies.
[Learn more about Quinn Laboratory](http://quinnlaboratory.com)
## Testimonial
“*The FlowEZ pressure controller, Flow Unit flow rate sensor, and OxyGEN software from Fluigent made setting up a custom microfluidics system for our specific needs quick and simple. It’s ease of use and user friendly implementation have allowed for precise and reliable control of cardiac mechanical load in both larval and adult zebrafish, enabling highly reproducible in vivo and in vitro investigations of mechanical responses critical for control of cardiac activity. We are excited about the physiological insights this system will provide as we continue to utilise this powerful technology.* ”
**Alex Quinn, Ph.D., Professor, Physiology & Biophysics and Biomedical Engineering, Dalhousie University**
Cardiac Autoregulation Arrhythmias Laboratory at Dalhousie University
Fluigent setup in lab
## Why is Mechanical Load Critical for Cardiac Development and Function
The heart functions as an electrically driven pump, adapting to constant changes in mechanical load to regulate blood flow**. In each heartbeat, cardiomyocytes contract and relax in response to preload (blood filling the heart) and afterload (resistance to ejection), adjusting cardiac output through mechano-electric (MEC) and mechano-mechanical (MMC) coupling**. While these adaptive mechanisms are well understood in adults, their role in heart development remains unclear. 2,3
During embryogenesis, the heart evolves from a simple tube into a multi-chambered organ, driven by mechanical forces that shape cardiac structure, function, and electrical activity. Mechanical load influences electrophysiology, cell differentiation, and tissue growth, highlighting its importance in early cardiac development. However, **the extent to which acute mechanical load changes drive functional adaptation in the developing heart remains an open question**, making this a crucial area for further research. 4–6
*Figure *1*: Overview of cardiac electromechanical integration. *6**
## Zebrafish as a Model for Mechanobiology and Cardiac Research Advancements
Zebrafish offer a powerful alternative experimental model for studying cardiac development and function, overcoming technical and physiological limitations seen in mammalian models. **Unlike mammals, the transparent zebrafish embryo allows real-time visualization of developing organs, including the heart, *in vivo*.** The zebrafish heart begins to beat and form major vessels within 48 hours of post-fertilization, making it ideal for studying early heart morphogenesis and mechanical load effects. Furthermore, the larvae embryo can survive significant cardiac dysfunction due to their unique oxygen diffusion system, enabling the study of severe phenotypes that would be destructive in other species. With a fully sequenced genome and easily manipulated genetics, zebrafish are a cost-effective model with relevant human cardiac gene orthologs and comparable heart function, including similar electrophysiology and responses to stretch. **These advantages, along with optogenetic tools for precise control of cardiac activity, position zebrafish as an excellent model for investigating the role of mechanical forces in heart development**.1,7–9
*Figure 2: Zebrafish as a model organism for biomedical research.10*
## Aim of the Study
This study aims to investigate the acute effects of mechanical load on cardiac function during early development in zebrafish. By developing a novel experimental approach, the impact of preload alterations on the electrical and mechanical activity of the larval zebrafish heart are evaluated. **The goal is to explore how mechanosensitive processes, such as MEC- and MMC-mediated responses, influence cardiac development,** with a proof-of-concept study evaluating functional changes in the atrium at 48 hours post-fertilization.
## Methodology: How to Set Up Precise Flow Control and Micro-cannula Injection for Zebrafish Model Studies
All procedures followed Dalhousie University’s animal care guidelines. 48 hpf zebrafish with a heart-specific eGFP marker were used for the study. Larvae embryos were anesthetized, immobilized in low-melting agarose, and positioned under a fluorescence microscope.
*Figure 3 Electronic flow control system for acutely increasing cardiac preload in intact larval zebrafish1*
Figure 4: Acute volume loading protocol: (A) Three 30s saline injections (3 μL/min) with 90s rest periods; taken before (B1-B3) and after loading (S1-S3). (B) Pressure and flow monitored using pressure-flow control software.1
For precise control of preload, an advanced electronic flow control system was developed, building on previous hydrostatic pressurization techniques.11 **This system uses Fluigent’s microfluidic pressure controller (FlowEZ, 2 bar) and flow rate sensor (Flow Unit M) to monitor and control flow rates enabling real-time adjustments of atrial preload.**
Micro-cannulas (4 μm tip diameter) were inserted into the common cardinal vein of the larvae embryo to inject saline solution, inducing controlled atrial dilation. Injection protocols were optimized using Fluigent’s OxyGEN software to achieve a ~25% increase in atrial end-diastolic area. The optimal combination was found to be a cannula flow of 3 μL/min for 30 s. The heart’s functional responses, including heart rate and atrial dimensions, were monitored through high-speed video and analyzed using custom Matlab routines to calculate parameters such as heart rate (HR), atrial stroke area (SA), and cardiac output (COA).
*Figure 5: Micro-cannula placement and atrial dilation: (A) In vivo image of zebrafish heart with micro-cannula. (B) Heart videos analyzed in Matlab to calculate EDA, ESA, and stroke area (SA).1*
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### Microfluidic flow controller
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### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
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## Proof-of-Concept: Zebrafish Atrial Response to Increased Preload in Early Development
Acute volume loading resulted in a transient, three-time increase in atrial end-diastolic area (EDA) through saline injections (3 μL/min for 30 s). As shown in Figure 6A, **each injection led to a significant increase in EDA, with values returning to baseline during the rest periods between injections**. The average increase in EDA was 20.5% ± 2.0% (Figure 7).
Figures 6B and 6C show that the increase in preload had a minimal effect on heart rate (HR) during the first two loading periods, with a slight decrease in HR during the third injection. Stroke area (SA) increased significantly after each injection, with an average 60.1% ± 8.5% increase in SA (Figure 7). Importantly, **the increase in cardiac output (COA) was driven solely by the increase in SA, as no significant change in HR was observed**. The COA increased by 58.1% ± 8.8% (Figure 7), highlighting the role of mechanical modulation in enhancing atrial output without substantial changes in heart rate.
These findings suggest that, during early developmental stages (48 hpf), **acute atrial preload increases primarily lead to mechanical changes in stroke area and cardiac output**, with minimal contribution from electrical responses, indicating that mechanisms like **MEC may not yet be active at this stage**.
*Figure 6: Effects of atrial dilation on functional parameters in 48 hpf zebrafish larvae. (A) End-diastolic area (EDA), (B) heart rate (HR), (C) stroke area (SA), and (D) area cardiac output (COA = HR × SA) immediately before (B1-B3) and at the end of load application (S1-S3). 1*
*Figure 7: Comparison of effects of atrial preload application on functional parameters in 48 hpf zebrafish larvae.1*
## Conclusion
In this paper, researchers from the Cardiac, Autoregulation & Arrhythmias Laboratory at Dalhousie University presented a novel methodology, utilizing Fluigent’s advanced pressure based flow control technology, enabling precise modulation of mechanical load in the zebrafish heart model. **This approach provides new insights into the role of MEC and MMC during cardiac development, allowing for real-time imaging of functional effects.** It offers a powerful tool for future studies exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying these responses, the impact on cardiac diseases, and potential therapeutic strategies, particularly in congenital heart defects.
[Read the full article](https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2023.1086050/full)
## References
1\. Baillie, J. S., Gendernalik, A., Garrity, D. M., Bark, D. & Quinn, T. A. The in vivo study of cardiac mechano-electric and mechano-mechanical coupling during heart development in zebrafish. *Front. Physiol.* **14**, (2023).
2\. Quinn, T. A. & Kohl, P. Rabbit models of cardiac mechano-electric and mechano-mechanical coupling. *Prog. Biophys. Mol. Biol.* **121**, 110–122 (2016).
3\. Quinn, T. A. & Kohl, P. Mechano-sensitivity of cardiac pacemaker function: Pathophysiological relevance, experimental implications, and conceptual integration with other mechanisms of rhythmicity. *Prog. Biophys. Mol. Biol.* **110**, 257–268 (2012).
4\. Rose, R. A. OBSOLETE: Cellular Sinoatrial Node and Atrioventricular Node Activity in the Heart. in *Reference Module in Biomedical Sciences* B9780128012383997599 (Elsevier, 2018). doi:10.1016/B978-0-12-801238-3.99759-9.
5\. Katz, A. M. Ernest Henry Starling, His Predecessors, and the “Law of the Heart”. *Circulation* **106**, 2986–2992 (2002).
6\. Reed, A., Kohl, P. & Peyronnet, R. Molecular candidates for cardiac stretch-activated ion channels. *Glob. Cardiol. Sci. Pract.* **2014**, 19 (2014).
7\. Cairelli, A. G. *et al.* Role of tissue biomechanics in the formation and function of myocardial trabeculae in zebrafish embryos. *J. Physiol.* **n/a**, (2024).
8\. Rödel, C. J. & Abdelilah-Seyfried, S. A zebrafish toolbox for biomechanical signaling in cardiovascular development and disease. *Curr. Opin. Hematol.* **28**, 198–207 (2021).
9\. Rafferty, S. A. & Quinn, T. A. A beginner’s guide to understanding and implementing the genetic modification of zebrafish. *Prog. Biophys. Mol. Biol.* **138**, 3–19 (2018).
10\. Bournele, D. & Beis, D. Zebrafish models of cardiovascular disease. *Heart Fail. Rev.* **21**, 803–813 (2016).
11\. Gendernalik, A., Zebhi, B., Ahuja, N., Garrity, D. & Bark, D. In Vivo Pressurization of the Zebrafish Embryonic Heart as a Tool to Characterize Tissue Properties During Development. *Ann. Biomed. Eng.* **49**, 834–845 (2021).
## Related products
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---
### [Breathing Lung-on-Chip Platform for Dynamic Anti-Fibrotic Testing ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/breathing-lung-on-chip-platform/)
**Published:** June 22, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Advancing research with organs-on-chips technologies
[**Organ-on-chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/) **technologies** have emerged as powerful tools to mimic human physiological environments *in vitro*, enabling more predictive models for disease research and [drug testing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organ-on-chip-in-drug-development/) than traditional systems. Among these, **lung-on-chip platforms** are particularly promising, yet accurately reproducing the complex structure and dynamic mechanical behavior of the alveoli remains a significant challenge, especially for **the study of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis**.
**Accordingly, Weber *et al.* *(2026)* developed a microengineered alveolar array lung-on-chip** integrating a biologically derived collagen–elastin membrane with controlled cyclic mechanical actuation, enabling physiologically relevant, reproducible breathing-like motions at the microscale.
This platform combines [**Fluigent’s pressure-based flow control**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) **with an innovative array of alveoli made with a suspended collagen-elastin membrane developed by the** [**University of Bern**](mailto:https://www.artorg.unibe.ch/research/ooc/index_eng.html) **and AlveoliX alveolar epithelial cells** to provide **precise and stable mechanical stimulation** for fibrosis modeling and the assessment of anti-fibrotic drug responses.
## Development of a lung-on-chip model, a paper from the University of Bern and AlveoliX
Paper: Weber TA, Zamprogno P, Schneider S, Hajari MA, Büchler P, Hobi N, et al. Microengineered alveolar array lung-on-chip with hydrogel membrane and simulated breathing mechanics for anti-fibrotic testing. Biofabrication. **2026** Jan;18(1):015026.
This study resulted from a collaboration between the [**ARTORG Center for Biomedical Engineering Research**](https://www.artorg.unibe.ch/) (University of Bern, Switzerland) and [**AlveoliX**](https://www.alveolix.com/?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22666907652&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIgIzXhdONlAMVg5ODBx29ECU4EAAYASAAEgKOEfD_BwE), which develops organs-on-chip technology for predictive preclinical research.
Together, these partners bring complementary strengths in **biofabrication, microfluidics, and respiratory disease modeling**, providing a robust framework for the development and validation of physiologically relevant lung-on-chip technologies.
## Pathological context: the Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a **chronic and progressive interstitial lung disease** characterized by **excessive scarring of the lung tissue**, leading to **irreversible loss of respiratory function**. The disease causes progressive dyspnea, chronic dry cough, fatigue, and reduced exercise tolerance. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis mainly affects adults over 60 years old, especially men and former smokers. This severe lung disease has a poor prognosis, with a median survival of 3 to 5 years after diagnosis (Figure 1). \[1,2,3\]
Current treatment options remain limited. Supportive care, including oxygen therapy and pulmonary rehabilitation, is commonly used to improve quality of life, while lung transplantation remains the only definitive treatment for eligible patients with advanced disease. Anti-fibrotic drugs can slow disease progression, but they **do not reverse existing fibrosis or provide a cure**. Nowadays, several innovative tools have emerged, offering great opportunities **for more predictive and physiologically relevant *in vitro* models** to better understand fibrosis mechanisms and accelerate the development of new therapies. \[3,4\]
Figure 1 Impact of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis on alveoli 5
## Why use Organ-on-chip for Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis Study?
[Organ-on-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) technologies are emerging microphysiological systems designed to **recreate key structural and functional features of human organs** within miniaturized **microfluidic devices**. By combining microengineering, biomaterials, and cell biology, these platforms provide controlled microenvironments where human cells can be cultured **under biochemical and mechanical conditions** (Figure 2). \[6,7\]
[Disease modeling, drug screening, and toxicity assessment](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organ-on-chip-in-drug-development/) can benefit from organ-on-chip technologies. As an example, lung-on-chip models show strong potential for mimicking complex pulmonary physiology and improving the prediction of human drug responses compared to traditional *in vitro* and animal models. \[6,7\]
Figure 2 Schematic diagram depicting the multifaceted opportunities offered by OOC technology 7
Organ-on-chip technologies have major advantages including **reduced reliance on animal experimentation**, along with the **use of human cells**, **improved experimental control**, real-time monitoring, **lower reagent consumption**, and compatibility with high-throughput approaches. However, important challenges remain, including **reproducing physiologically relevant mechanical environments** while ensuring **stable and reproducible long-term operation** of complex systems. \[7\]
## Replicating the human lung *in vitro* in a pathological context
This study addresses key limitations of current lung-on-chip models in accurately **replicating the biomechanical environment** of the human alveoli. Weber *et al.* developed a microengineered platform that mimics physiologically relevant breathing motions, enabling **the study of lung behavior under dynamic mechanical conditions**. The system supports investigations of pulmonary fibrosis and drug responses in a controlled *in vitro* setting.
Figure 3 Lung on chip system featuring an array of alveoli supported by a suspended collagen elastin membrane 1
## Methodology: How to Reproduce Breathing Mechanics in a Lung-on-Chip Platform
The lung-on-chip device developed in this study is based on a microengineered architecture integrating a thin, suspended collagen–elastin hydrogel membrane supported by a hexagonal gold mesh, reproducing the size and geometry of native alveoli.
The platform builds on technologies developed by the [University of Bern](mailto:https://www.artorg.unibe.ch/research/ooc/index_eng.html), including [AlveoliX](https://www.alveolix.com/) **AXiAECs human alveolar epithelial cells**. The system is fabricated using injection-molded cyclic olefin copolymer layers assembled with a PDMS membrane acting both as a diaphragm and as microfluidic valves. Pneumatic activation generates controlled pressure differentials, inducing **reproducible breathing-like deflections of the hydrogel membrane across an array of alveolar units** (Figure 3).
As displayed in Figure 4, human alveolar epithelial cells provided by AlveoliX and lung fibroblasts are co-cultured on opposite sides of the membrane to recreate the alveolar barrier. Cells are **cultured under static or dynamic conditions**, with cyclic mechanical stimulation applied to mimic physiological breathing. Early fibrotic changes are induced via transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) stimulation, while the anti-fibrotic drug nintedanib is used to assess therapeutic effects. Barrier integrity and cellular responses are then analyzed using TEER measurements, immunofluorescence staining, ELISA assays, and gene expression analysis.
Figure 4 Multilayer lung on chip platform for scalable integration 1
To ensure **precise and stable control of both fluidic and mechanical conditions**, the system relies on pressure-driven flow provided by Fluigent flow control solutions. In this setup, the [**Flow EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) is used to generate the **cyclic pressure (**[**shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)**)** required to drive the breathing-like activation of the membrane, delivering controlled oscillatory signals that reproduce physiological respiratory motions. In parallel, the [**Push Pull**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/) controls the on-chip pneumatic valves, enabling **precise regulation of medium exchange** within the microfluidic network. By independently controlling these two pressure lines, the platform ensures [**synchronized and reproducible mechanical stimulation and fluid handling**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/high-throughput-raman-spectroscopy/).
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
## Proof of Concept: Dynamic Lung-on-Chip Modeling of Anti-Fibrotic Testing
The study demonstrates the ability of the lung-on-chip platform to reproduce physiologically relevant breathing-like mechanical stimulation at the microscale.
As shown in Figure 5, controlled pneumatic actuation induced a **stable and reproducible membrane deflection** of approximately 43 µm, generating a spatially heterogeneous strain distribution across each alveolar unit, with a maximum surface increase of about 7.8%.
This gradient closely [**mimics the mechanical environment**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/) **experienced by cells in native alveoli** and was further validated by the upregulation of stretch-responsive markers under cyclic conditions.
When applied to a fibrosis model, the impact of dynamic mechanical stimulation became particularly evident. As illustrated in Figure 6, treatment with TGF-β1 induced extracellular matrix overexpression with significantly **stronger effects observed under cyclic stretch compared to static conditions**. This highlights the key role of breathing-like forces in amplifying fibrotic signaling and **better reproducing disease progression *in vitro***.
Figure 5 Characterization of the cyclic stretch and its resulting strain mimicking the in vivo breathing motion A Deformation of the suspended membrane within a rigid hexagonal aperture of the alveoli scaffold dashed lines with an enforced maximum deflection of 43 μm B The increase in surface area area strain resulting from the deflection of the membrane from its neutral position 1
Figure 6 Gene expression levels for three extracellular matrix proteins related to the progression of fibrosis in static and dynamic culture treated with TGF β1 T5 and control CTRL 1
Importantly, the platform also enabled the evaluation of therapeutic responses under physiologically relevant conditions. As shown in Figure 7, the anti-fibrotic drug demonstrates **limited efficacy under static culture** but significantly improved barrier integrity with enhanced tight junction formation (ZO-1) and **reduced fibrotic marker expression under dynamic conditions**. These results underscore the **critical role of mechanical cues in modulating drug response** and confirm the relevance of the system as a predictive tool for preclinical testing.
Figure 7: Effect of the anti-fibrotic drug nintedanib on the progression of IPF-like symptoms. (A) Immunofluorescence staining of alveolar epithelial cells for the tight junction protein Zonula Occludens-1 (ZO-1) (green) and nuclei (cyan). (B) Secretion of PAI-1 in static and dynamic culture, treated with TGF-β1 (T5), in combination with nintedanib (T5N3), and control (CTRL) in the co-culture model. (C) Normalized intensity of the fluorescence staining of actin and fibronectin in a fibroblast monoculture.\[1\]
## Lung-on-Chip: A Powerful Tool for Disease Modeling and Drug Discovery
In this study, researchers from the University of Bern and AlveoliX demonstrated that a microengineered alveolar lung-on-chip integrating a collagen-elastin membrane with breathing-like mechanical stimulation enables a more physiologically relevant model of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. The platform successfully **reproduces dynamic alveolar deformation** and **reveals the major impact of cyclic stretch on fibrotic responses and drug efficacy**.
Enabled by Fluigent’s pressure-based flow control technologies, the system ensures stable and reproducible mechanical stimulation and fluid handling. Overall, this work highlights the potential of advanced lung-on-chip platforms to improve preclinical anti-fibrotic drug testing and support the development of more predictive in vitro pulmonary disease models.
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## References
1. Weber TA, Zamprogno P, Schneider S, Hajari MA, Büchler P, Hobi N, et al. Microengineered alveolar array lung-on-chip with hydrogel membrane and simulated breathing mechanics for anti-fibrotic testing. Biofabrication. 2026 Jan;18(1):015026. doi:[10.1088/1758-5090/ae2e44](https://doi.org/10.1088/1758-5090/ae2e44)
2. Meltzer EB, Noble PW. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Orphanet J Rare Dis. 2008 Mar 26;3(1):8. doi:[10.1186/1750-1172-3-8](https://doi.org/10.1186/1750-1172-3-8)
3. Gross TJ, Hunninghake GW. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. New England Journal of Medicine. 2001 Aug 16;345(7):517–25. doi:[10.1056/NEJMra003200](https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra003200)
4. Barratt SL, Creamer A, Hayton C, Chaudhuri N. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF): An Overview. Journal of Clinical Medicine. 2018 Aug 6;7(8). doi:[10.3390/jcm7080201](https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm7080201)
5. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis | Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation. Available from:
6. Mittal R, Woo FW, Castro CS, Cohen MA, Karanxha J, Mittal J, et al. Organ-on-chip models: Implications in drug discovery and clinical applications. Journal of Cellular Physiology. 2019;234(6):8352–80. doi:[10.1002/jcp.27729](https://doi.org/10.1002/jcp.27729)
7. Srivastava SK, Foo GW, Aggarwal N, Chang MW. Organ-on-chip technology: Opportunities and challenges. Biotechnology Notes. 2024 Jan 1;5:8–12. doi:[10.1016/j.biotno.2024.01.001](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biotno.2024.01.001)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Microfluidics and Analytical Techniques: Benefits, Applications and Integration Strategies ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-analytical-techniques/)
**Published:** June 15, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Microfluidics in Analytical Chemistry and the Rise of Integrated Analytical Techniques
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/) refers to the precise manipulation of fluids at the sub-millimeter scale, typically in channels of tens to hundreds of micrometers. At this scale, flow is dominated by laminar behavior and diffusion-driven transport, enabling highly controlled and efficient miniaturized systems for chemical and biological analysis.
The integration of fluid handling with analytical functions emerged with Micro Total Analysis Systems (μTAS), which proposed combining sampling, preparation, reaction, separation, and detection on a single device. This concept established the basis of **microfluidics analytical techniques**, where micro-scale flow control is directly coupled to analytical instruments (Figure 1). \[1\]
*Figure 1 Front page of the pioneering Micro Total Analysis System paper by Terry et al 1979 1*
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/) became a key technology in modern analytical chemistry, improving sensitivity, reproducibility, and throughput through precise control of nano- to picoliter volumes. Microfluidics analytical techniques are widely applied in mass spectrometry, chromatography, spectroscopy, electrochemical analysis and more.
Its **main advantages** include reduced sample consumption, improved reaction efficiency, and better reproducibility due to integrated workflows and minimized contamination (Figure 2).
Today, microfluidics analytical techniques act as a bridge between classical analytical chemistry and **automated laboratory systems**, enabling real-time monitoring, single-cell analysis, and high-throughput screening with unprecedented precision. \[2\]
*Figure 2 Advantages of microfluidic technology for analytical techniques*
## How to Integrate Microfluidics with Analytical Instruments
Integration of microfluidics with analytical instruments relies on a combination of microfluidic chips, fluid actuation systems, flow monitoring, and interfacing components that together ensure precise and reproducible operation in **microfluidics analytical chemistry**.
At the core of the system, microfluidic chips define the analytical workflow. These devices integrate channels, junctions, and functional structures such as mixers, reaction chambers, or separation units. Their geometry governs key parameters such as:
- Mixing efficiency,
- Residence time,
- And mass transport,
which directly influence analytical performance.
### 1. *Why Fluid Handling Performance Matters in Analytical Microfluidics*
In analytical microfluidics, the quality of fluid handling directly impacts experimental reproducibility and measurement accuracy. Even small fluctuations in flow rate can affect mixing efficiency, reaction kinetics, separation performance, and detector response.
**Fluid handling** is typically achieved using **pressure controllers or syringe pumps,** often combined with flow sensors for real-time monitoring. Pressure-driven systems are widely used due to their ability to **deliver stable, pulse-free flow** with **high precision** across a wide dynamic range. When coupled with flow sensors, these systems enable closed-loop control, ensuring accurate and reproducible delivery of nanoliter-to-microliter volumes.
*Figure 3 Example of a microfluidic set up for analytical techniques such as spectroscopy*
Interfacing components then [connect the microfluidic environment to external analytical instruments](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/microfluidics-and-spectroscopy/) such as mass spectrometers, chromatographic systems, electrochemical detectors, or optical platforms (Figure 3). These interfaces are designed to **minimize dead volume** and ensure efficient, low-dispersion transfer of samples between systems.
Together, microfluidic chips, pumping and flow monitoring systems, and instrument interfaces form the foundation of modern **microfluidics analytical techniques**, enabling highly controlled, automated, and reproducible analytical workflows. \[3\]
### 2. Fluid Handling Technologies for Analytical Microfluidics
***Comparison of Syringe Pumps and Pressure-Based Controllers for Microfluidic Analytical Systems***
**Feature** **Syringe Pump** **Pressure-Based Controller** **How it works** Pushes liquid with a moving syringe plunger Pushes liquid by applying pressure to a reservoir **Flow stability** ⚠️ Can generate pulsations ✅ Smooth, pulse-free flow **Response speed** 🐢 Slower adjustments ⚡ Fast adjustments **Continuous operation** ❌ Limited by syringe volume ✅ Continuous with reservoirs **Multiple channels** ⚠️ One pump per channel ✅ Easy multi-channel control **Flow precision** ✅ Good ✅✅ Very high (with flow sensors) **Automation** ⚠️ Moderate ✅ Advanced automation **Best for** Simple experiments, low-cost setups High-performance analytical workflows **Typical applications** Flow injection, reagent delivery Spectroscopy, MS coupling, droplet microfluidics, high-throughput screening Fluigent has developed a [range of pressure-based flow control solutions](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) specifically designed for microfluidic applications. Among them, the [Flow EZ™ pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) delivers **fast response times** and **highly stable pressure regulation**, enabling smooth and **pulse-free** flow generation across a wide range of operating conditions.
When combined with Fluigent flow sensors, Flow EZ™ can operate in a closed-loop configuration, providing real-time flow monitoring and automatic flow rate regulation. This approach **ensures highly reproducible fluid delivery** and helps researchers achieve reliable analytical results, even in applications involving nanoliter-scale flows or complex microfluidic networks.
These capabilities make pressure-driven flow control particularly valuable for analytical techniques such as spectroscopy, chromatography coupling, droplet generation, and high-throughput screening workflows.
Read this comparison review: [Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## Microfluidics for Sample Preparation and Pretreatment
Sample preparation is a key step in analytical workflows and strongly influences the performance of **microfluidics analytical techniques**. Microfluidic systems enable controlled dilution, mixing, filtration, extraction, and reagent handling in very small volumes. \[4\]
At the microscale, improved mass transfer and reduced diffusion distances lead to faster and more efficient processing compared to conventional methods. This enhances reaction kinetics and improves the handling of complex samples before analysis.
On-chip integration of preparation steps also **reduces manual handling,** limits contamination, and improves reproducibility. Furthermore, [microfluidic platforms facilitate workflow automation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/automation-in-microfluidics/) by enabling precise and programmable control of fluid manipulation (Figure 4), thereby reducing operator intervention and increasing process reliability. As a result, these systems streamline upstream workflows prior to coupling with analytical instruments. \[5\]
From this perspective, the following sections will highlight key applications in mass spectrometry, chromatography, electrophoresis, electrochemistry, and spectroscopy.
*Figure 4 Example of a control system for automated operation of microfluidic devices 5*
### 1. Microfluidics and Mass Spectrometry
**Mass spectrometry (MS)** is one of the most analytical techniques coupled with microfluidics analytical techniques due to its high sensitivity and broad applicability. Microfluidic systems **improve MS performance** by enabling precise control of sample introduction, ionization, and reaction conditions at very low flow rates as displayed in Figure 5. \[6,7\]
A key integration approach is the use of nanoelectrospray ionization (nanoESI), where microfluidic channels deliver stable nanoliter flows directly to the ion source. This improves ionization efficiency while significantly reducing sample consumption. [Droplet-based microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) further enables compartmentalized analysis, supporting high-throughput screening and single-cell studies. \[6,7\]
*Figure 5 Microfluidics advantages coupling strategies and application for mass spectrometry 6*
Microfluidic platforms also enhance online sample preparation prior to MS detection, including dilution, mixing, and chemical derivatization. This reduces manual handling, particularly in complex biological samples. \[6,7\]
Overall, coupling mass spectrometry with microfluidics analytical techniques enables:
- Higher sensitivity,
- Lower sample requirements,
- And improved temporal resolution for dynamic processes. \[6,7\]
### 2. How Does Microfluidics Enhance ICP-MS Analysis?
Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) is an elemental analysis technique used for ultra-trace detection of metals and isotopes (such as mercury as shown in Figure 6). It is widely applied in environmental monitoring, materials science, and bioanalysis due to its high sensitivity and wide dynamic range. \[8\]
Microfluidics analytical techniques improve ICP-MS workflows by enabling precise manipulation of very small sample volumes before introduction into the plasma source. Microfluidic channels allow controlled dilution, mixing, and conditioning steps, which help adapt complex samples to ICP-MS requirements while minimizing sample waste.
*Figure 6 Example of a selective mercury detection via amalgamation on a gold nanoparticle modified PDMS microfluidic system coupled to ICP MS 8*
The use of microfluidic interfaces also improves transport efficiency from sample to ionization stage, particularly under low-flow conditions. This is especially beneficial for applications involving limited sample availability or continuous monitoring systems.
Typical applications include heavy metal detection in environmental water samples, trace element analysis in soil and industrial effluents, and elemental profiling in biological fluids. Microfluidic integration also supports water quality assessment and pollutant tracking with improved temporal resolution in flow-based analysis. \[9,10\]
### 3. Microfluidic Approaches for Chromatographic Analysis
Chromatography was among **the first analytical techniques to be miniaturized**, contributing to the emergence of **lab-on-a-chip systems** and the broader field of microfluidics. Early μTAS concepts envisioned integrating sample preparation, separation, and detection within a single microfabricated platform (Figure 7). \[11\]
Today, microfluidic devices are used to integrate chromatographic workflows and upstream processing steps within compact analytical systems. Their small footprint and high level of integration have facilitated the development of platforms for such chemical and biological analysis.
From microchip chromatography to multidimensional separation systems, microfluidics continues to expand the possibilities for miniaturized analytical chemistry. \[12,13\]
*Figure 7 Example of a microfluidic chip with an emitter tip and a packed chromatographic column top with all seven fluidic connection ports 11*
### 3. Microfluidics and Capillary Electrophoresis
[**Capillary electrophoresis (CE)**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capillary-electrophoresis-using-microfluidic-electrophoretic-and-optic-modules/) is a separation technique that uses an electric field to separate charged molecules according to their electrophoretic mobility. Due to its high separation efficiency and natural compatibility with miniaturization, CE has played an important role in the development of **microfluidics analytical techniques** and lab-on-a-chip systems. \[14\]
Microfluidics extends the capabilities of CE by enabling integrated sampling, fluid handling, and detection within compact analytical platforms.
As an example, researchers from the Institut Galien Paris-Saclay (CNRS, Université Paris-Saclay), developed a [modular microfluidic capillary electrophoresis platform coupled with LED-induced fluorescence detection using off-the-shelf components](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidics-interfaced-capillary-electrophoresis/) (Figure 8). The system incorporated pressure- and vacuum-driven flow control to enable automated continuous sampling and stable microflow conditions. Using this setup, the authors successfully separated fluorescent sulfobetaine-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles and monitored their interaction with dopamine in real time. This work demonstrates how **microfluidics analytical techniques** can transform conventional capillary electrophoresis into a flexible platform for nanoparticle characterization (Figure 9), drug delivery studies, and diagnostic applications. \[15\]
*Figure 8 Photo of the microfluidics interfaced capillary electrophoresis system modules from the Institut Galien Paris Saclay Zafar et al Sensors Actuators B Chem 2025 15*
*Figure 9 Electropherograms of two different categories of magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with sulfobetaine A 47 nm spheric B 125 nm non spheric Zafar et al Sensors Actuators B Chem 2025 15*
### 4. How Is Microfluidics Used in Electrochemical Analysis?
Electrochemical techniques are used in analytical chemistry for real-time chemical sensing and reaction monitoring. Their direct signal readout makes them well suited for integration with microfluidic systems, where reactions can be performed and analyzed within the same platform. \[16\]
Microfluidic electrochemical platforms typically integrate electrodes directly within microchannels, enabling measurements to be performed under continuous flow conditions. This configuration supports controlled reaction environments and allows electrochemical signals to be recorded *in situ* during fluid transport. \[17\]
*Figure 10 Electrochemical microfluidic devices for cyclohexanol electrooxidation from Imperial College London a 3D printed micromixer with reactor flow paths indicated b Micromixer b1 and reactor b2 structures c T shaped counter flow reactor schematic Liang et al JACS Au 2025 18*
As an example, researchers at Imperial College London developed an [automated microfluidic electrochemistry platform to study cyclohexanol electrooxidation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-microfluidic-electrochemistry/) (Figure 10). The system enabled automated electrolyte preparation, controlled reaction conditions, and real-time measurements, allowing mechanistic insight and rapid screening of additives. This work highlights how **microfluidics analytical techniques** support electrosynthesis research and reaction analysis. \[18\]
### 5. Microfluidic Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy for Label-Free Analysis
Another label-free analytical technique commonly coupled with microfluidic systems is [electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/), which provides frequency-based electrical characterization of flowing samples.
EIS measures the frequency-dependent electrical response of a system, providing information on particle, cell, or droplet properties without the need for labeling.
In microfluidic systems, EIS is implemented through electrodes integrated into microchannels, where passing objects modulate the local electric field as they flow through the sensing region (Figure 11). The resulting impedance signal reflects differences in size, composition, and dielectric properties (Figure 12).
A typical electrical impedance spectroscopy platform combines microfluidic flow control, a sensing chip with embedded electrodes, and a lock-in amplifier for frequency-resolved signal detection. This configuration enables the analysis of individual objects in flow based on their electrical signature.
Unlike DC electrochemical measurements, impedance spectroscopy provides multi-frequency information, making it particularly suitable for distinguishing heterogeneous populations in flowing samples. \[19,20\]
*Figure 11 Example of system setup for Impedance Measurement with EISP*
*Figure 12 Signals obtained from the impedance measurement of microbead*
### 6. Microfluidics and Spectroscopy
Spectroscopic techniques such as UV-Vis, fluorescence, and [Raman spectroscopy](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/high-throughput-raman-spectroscopy/) are widely used for label-free molecular and biochemical analysis. However, their performance can be limited when applied to complex samples due to weak signal intensity, optical scattering, and inefficient interaction between light and analyte in bulk solutions.
**Microfluidics addresses these limitations** by confining the sample into well-defined microchannels, where optical interrogation can be better controlled. The small dimensions reduce optical path variability and enable precise alignment between the excitation beam and the sample volume. In addition, controlled flow conditions allow continuous renewal of the analyte in the detection zone, improving measurement stability over time. \[21,22\]
As an example, F. Zorzi *et al.* from the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and Politecnico di Milano developed a [microfluidic lab-on-a-chip platform enabling 3D hydrodynamic focusing for Raman spectroscopy](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/high-throughput-raman-spectroscopy/) (Figure 13). This approach confines the sample within the optical interrogation region, enabling full-volume, low-noise measurements of non-transparent fluids such as whole blood. It improves signal quality and enables faster acquisition with reduced photodamage compared to bulk measurements. \[23\]
This work demonstrates how coupling spectroscopy with microfluidic analytical techniques enables more efficient analysis of complex biological samples, while supporting real-time and effiecient optical diagnostics.
*Figure 13 Example of a Raman Spectroscopy coupled with microfluidics from the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and Politecnico di Milano Zorzi et al Lab Chip 2024 23*
### 7. Droplet-Based Microfluidics Coupled with FACS Sorting
[**Droplet microfluidics**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) represents an efficient approach for generating discrete compartments containing biological material such as fluorescent bacteria. In these workflows, water-in-oil or water-in-oil-in-water double emulsions are produced and subsequently processed by [fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/) to isolate droplets based on their signal. \[24,25\]
These double emulsions act as confined microbioreactors, supporting controlled bacterial growth and localized biochemical activity within each droplet. The oil shell phase prevents fluorescence leakage between droplets, ensuring signal confinement in assays based on protein or enzyme secretion.
The coupling of droplet generation with FACS sorting enables high-throughput selection of functional droplets, providing a flexible platform for biochemical screening within **microfluidic analytical techniques** (Figures 14 and 15).
*Figure 14 FACS machine used for sorting A with a zoom to the sorting area B and cytometry analysis and gating C*
*Figure 15 Microscopic validation of droplets sorting developed in collaboration with Secoya Technologies*
## Conclusion and Perspectives
**Microfluidic analytical techniques** enable precise control of fluids at the microscale, where transport, mixing, and reactions can be tightly regulated within integrated platforms. Thanks to these advantages, analytical workflows become more efficient, with improved control over experimental conditions, reduced sample and reagent consumption, and streamlined multi-step processing within compact systems.
Future developments will increasingly rely on automation and machine learning to optimize experimental conditions, manage complex workflows, and interpret high-dimensional datasets in real time. These approaches will support more autonomous and adaptive analytical platforms, further extending the capabilities of **microfluidic analytical techniques**
Interested in integrating microfluidics into your analytical setup?
Contact us to discuss your application.
[Talk to an expert](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
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### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
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- Microfluidics White Papers
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Microfluidics Case Studies A Microfluidic Approach for High-Throughput Raman Spectroscopy of Whole Blood Read more
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Microfluidics Case Studies Automated Microfluidic Electrochemistry for Sustainable Cyclohexanol Oxidation Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Automation in Microfluidics: Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback Loops Read more
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Microfluidics Case Studies Microfluidics-Interfaced Capillary Electrophoresis for Continuous Analysis of Nanoparticle–Bioentity Interactions Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Impedance Measurement of Microbeads Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References
\[1\] S. C. Terry *et al*, IEEE Transactions on Electron Devices, vol. 26, no. 12, pp. 1880-1886, Dec. 1979.
\[2\] Á. Ríos and M. Zougagh, ‘Modern qualitative analysis by miniaturized and microfluidic systems’, *TrAC Trends in Analytical Chemistry*, vol. 69, pp. 105–113, Jun. 2015, doi: [10.1016/j.trac.2015.04.003](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trac.2015.04.003).
\[3\] A. Gómez‐Hens and J. M. Fernández‐Romero, ‘Microfluidic Systems in Analytical Chemistry’, in *Encyclopedia of Analytical Chemistry*, 1st edn, R. A. Meyers, Ed., Wiley, 2017, pp. 1–20. doi: [10.1002/9780470027318.a9591](https://doi.org/10.1002/9780470027318.a9591).
\[4\] L. Xia *et al.*, ‘Recent Progress in Fast Sample Preparation Techniques’, *Anal. Chem.*, vol. 92, no. 1, pp. 34–48, Jan. 2020, doi: [10.1021/acs.analchem.9b04735](https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.9b04735).
\[5\] A. M. Gonzalez-Suarez, A. Long, X. Huang, and A. Revzin, ‘A Compact Control System to Enable Automated Operation of Microfluidic Bioanalytical Assays’, *Biosensors*, vol. 12, no. 12, Dec. 2022, doi: [10.3390/bios12121160](https://doi.org/10.3390/bios12121160).
\[6\] B. E. Murray, L. I. Penabad, and R. T. Kennedy, ‘Advances in coupling droplet microfluidics to mass spectrometry’, *Current Opinion in Biotechnology*, vol. 82, p. 102962, Aug. 2023, doi: [10.1016/j.copbio.2023.102962](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copbio.2023.102962).
\[7\] M.-H. Fortier, E. Bonneil, P. Goodley, and P. Thibault, ‘Integrated Microfluidic Device for Mass Spectrometry-Based Proteomics and Its Application to Biomarker Discovery Programs’, *Anal. Chem.*, vol. 77, no. 6, pp. 1631–1640, Mar. 2005, doi: [10.1021/ac048506d](https://doi.org/10.1021/ac048506d).
\[8\] K.-C. Hsu, C.-F. Lee, W.-C. Tseng, Y.-Y. Chao, and Y.-L. Huang, ‘Selective and eco-friendly method for determination of mercury(II) ions in aqueous samples using an on-line AuNPs–PDMS composite microfluidic device/ICP-MS system’, *Talanta*, vol. 128, pp. 408–413, Oct. 2014, doi: [10.1016/j.talanta.2014.05.010](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.talanta.2014.05.010).
\[9\] A. Lace and J. Cleary, ‘A Review of Microfluidic Detection Strategies for Heavy Metals in Water’, *Chemosensors*, vol. 9, no. 4, Mar. 2021, doi: [10.3390/chemosensors9040060](https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors9040060).
\[10\] Y. Zhou *et al.*, ‘Direct Infusion ICP-qMS of Lined-up Single-Cell Using an Oil-Free Passive Microfluidic System’, *Anal. Chem.*, vol. 92, no. 7, pp. 5286–5293, Apr. 2020, doi: [10.1021/acs.analchem.9b05838](https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.9b05838).
\[11\] J. J. Heiland *et al.*, ‘On-chip integration of organic synthesis and HPLC/MS analysis for monitoring stereoselective transformations at the micro-scale’, *Lab Chip*, vol. 17, no. 1, pp. 76–81, 2017, doi: [10.1039/C6LC01217E](https://doi.org/10.1039/C6LC01217E).
\[12\] I. M. Lazar, P. Trisiripisal, and H. A. Sarvaiya, ‘Microfluidic Liquid Chromatography System for Proteomic Applications and Biomarker Screening’, *Anal. Chem.*, vol. 78, no. 15, pp. 5513–5524, Aug. 2006, doi: [10.1021/ac060434y](https://doi.org/10.1021/ac060434y).
\[13\] J. Xie, Y. Miao, J. Shih, Y.-C. Tai, and T. D. Lee, ‘Microfluidic Platform for Liquid Chromatography−Tandem Mass Spectrometry Analyses of Complex Peptide Mixtures’, *Anal. Chem.*, vol. 77, no. 21, pp. 6947–6953, Nov. 2005, doi: [10.1021/ac0510888](https://doi.org/10.1021/ac0510888).
\[14\] V. M. Ugaz and J. L. Christensen, ‘Electrophoresis in Microfluidic Systems’, in *Microfluidic Technologies for Miniaturized Analysis Systems*, S. Hardt and F. Schönfeld, Eds, Boston, MA: Springer US, 2007, pp. 393–438. doi: [10.1007/978-0-387-68424-6\_10](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-0-387-68424-6_10).
\[15\] J. Zafar *et al.*, ‘Microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis coupled with modular LED-based fluorescent detection: A new tool for continuous monitoring of the interaction between nanoparticles and bio-entities’, *Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical*, vol. 439, p. 137841, Sep. 2025, doi: [10.1016/j.snb.2025.137841](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.snb.2025.137841).
\[16\] U. Bilitewski, M. Genrich, S. Kadow, and G. Mersal, ‘Biochemical analysis with microfluidic systems’, *Anal Bioanal Chem*, vol. 377, no. 3, pp. 556–569, Oct. 2003, doi: [10.1007/s00216-003-2179-4](https://doi.org/10.1007/s00216-003-2179-4).
\[17\] W. Satoh, H. Hosono, H. Yokomaku, K. Morimoto, S. Upadhyay, and H. Suzuki, ‘Integrated Electrochemical Analysis System with Microfluidic and Sensing Functions’, *Sensors*, vol. 8, no. 2, pp. 1111–1127, Feb. 2008, doi: [10.3390/s8021111](https://doi.org/10.3390/s8021111).
\[18\] X. Liang, M. Ouyang, N. P. Brandon, J. Xuan, and H. Wang, ‘Automated Microfluidics for Efficient Characterization of Cyclohexanol Electrooxidation for Sustainable Chemical Production’, *JACS Au*, vol. 5, no. 3, pp. 1340–1349, Mar. 2025, doi: [10.1021/jacsau.4c01207](https://doi.org/10.1021/jacsau.4c01207).
\[19\] T. Lederer, S. Clara, B. Jakoby, and W. Hilber, ‘Integration of impedance spectroscopy sensors in a digital microfluidic platform’, *Microsyst Technol*, vol. 18, no. 7, pp. 1163–1180, Aug. 2012, doi: [10.1007/s00542-012-1464-6](https://doi.org/10.1007/s00542-012-1464-6).
\[20\] J. Ojarand, M. Min, and A. Koel, ‘Multichannel Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Analyzer with Microfluidic Sensors’, *Sensors*, vol. 19, no. 8, Apr. 2019, doi: [10.3390/s19081891](https://doi.org/10.3390/s19081891).
\[21\] G. L. Nelson *et al.*, ‘Enabling Microscale Processing: Combined Raman and Absorbance Spectroscopy for Microfluidic On-Line Monitoring’, *Anal. Chem.*, vol. 93, no. 3, pp. 1643–1651, Jan. 2021, doi: [10.1021/acs.analchem.0c04225](https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.0c04225).
\[22\] P. C. Ashok and K. Dholakia, ‘Microfluidic Raman Spectroscopy for Bio-chemical Sensing and Analysis’, in *Optical Nano- and Microsystems for Bioanalytics*, W. Fritzsche and J. Popp, Eds, Berlin, Heidelberg: Springer, 2012, pp. 247–268. doi: [10.1007/978-3-642-25498-7\_9](https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-25498-7_9).
\[23\] F. Zorzi *et al.*, ‘Flow cell for high throughput Raman spectroscopy of non-transparent solutions’, *Lab Chip*, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 69–78, Dec. 2024, doi: [10.1039/D4LC00586D](https://doi.org/10.1039/D4LC00586D).
\[24\] L. Xia *et al.*, ‘Recent Progress in Fast Sample Preparation Techniques’, *Anal. Chem.*, vol. 92, no. 1, pp. 34–48, Jan. 2020, doi: [10.1021/acs.analchem.9b04735](https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.9b04735).
\[25\] K. K. Brower *et al.*, ‘Double Emulsion Picoreactors for High-Throughput Single-Cell Encapsulation and Phenotyping via FACS’, *Anal. Chem.*, vol. 92, no. 19, pp. 13262–13270, Oct. 2020, doi: [10.1021/acs.analchem.0c02499](https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.0c02499).
**Catégories de ressource:** General Overview of Microfluidics
---
### [Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
For more information on the application access the article:
[Direct transfection of clonal organoids in Matrigel microbeads: a promising approach toward organoid-based genetic screens, *Nucleic Acid Research*, 1–13](https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gky030),
## Introduction to Prostate Organoid culture
### What is Prostate Organoid Culture?
Prostate organoid culture is a 3D cell culture method where prostate cells self-organize into structures that replicate key features of glandular tissue.
As we already know, tissues and organs are multicellular structures that self-organize in three dimensions (3D). Cells within a tissue, such as glandular tissue, interact with neighboring cells and the extracellular matrix (ECM) through biochemical and mechanical signals that maintain the specificity and homeostasis of biological tissues.
### Advances in three-dimensional (3D) tissue organization models
While traditional 2D cultures on rigid surfaces fail to reproduce cellular behavior in-vivo, **3D matrices are becoming increasingly popular support**s for cell culture because **they mimic the complex environment that supports the physiological functions of cells to **better predict in-vivo responses**, thus limiting the need for animal models.
Unlike traditional 2D cultures that fail to reproduce cellular behavior in-vivo, **[3D matrices mimic the complex environment](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/how-to-reproduce-active-biomimetic-stimulation-in-vitro/ "3D matrices mimic the complex environment")** that supports the physiological functions of cells.
Organoids:
- Maintain cell–cell and cell–ECM interactions
- Reproduce apicobasal polarity
- Form lumen-containing acini structures
These properties make prostate organoids highly relevant for studying:
- Prostate cancer initiation and progression
- Tissue development and differentiation
- Drug response in physiologically relevant models
*Figure 1 Prostate organoid after 7 days incubation Visualization under fluorescent microscopeCourtesy of[ Biomicrotechnology and functional genomics BIOMICS](http://big.cea.fr/drf/big/BGE/BioMics) CEA Grenoble FRANCE
In collaboration with[ Leti a technology research institute at CEA Tech](http://www.leti-cea.fr/cea-tech/leti)*
### Organoids as Models for Prostate Cancer Research
Organoids are relevant **models to mimic the complex in-vivo environment** that supports cell physiological and pathological behaviors. For instance, **3D epithelial organoids** recapitulate numerous features of glandular tissues including the development of fully differentiated acini that maintain apicobasal polarity with the hollow lumen. Therefore, researchers have been focusing on the production of prostate organoid culture to better understand the complexity of PCa initiation and progression.
Effective genetic engineering in prostate organoid culture would provide new insights into organogenesis and carcinogenesis, helping us to decipher the key genetic networks underlying epithelial differentiation and polarity, and allowing us to better understand how they may be altered in pathological states such as cancer.
### Challenges in 3D Transfection of Organoids
However, direct 3D transfection on already-formed organoids remains challenging. One limitation is that organoids are embedded in the extracellular matrix and grow into compact structures that hinder transfection using traditional techniques. To address this issue, Laperrousaz, B. et al. (2018) have developed an innovative approach for transgene expression in 3D prostate organoid culture by combining single-cell encapsulation in Matrigel microbeads using a [Fluigent microfluidic device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/) and electroporation.
Laperrousaz, B. et al. (2018) demonstrated that direct electroporation of encapsulated prostate organoid cultures reach up to 80% of transfection efficiency when combining Fluigent’s technology for organoid generation and efficient 3D transfection. They were also able to validate the role of p63 and PTEN as key genes in acinar development in breast and prostate tissues confirming that this encapsulation and transfection method opens up new perspectives for **flow-based high-throughput genetic screening** and **functional genomic applications.**
*Figure 2 A Scheme of the microfluidic platform used for Matrigel microbead production using Fluigents Flow Controller*
*B Prostate organoid after 7 days incubation Visualization under fluorescent microscope*
*Courtesy of Biomicrotechnology and Functional Genomics BIOMICS CEA Grenoble FRANCE*
*In collaboration with Leti a technology research institute at CEA Tech*
### Microfluidic Workflow for Prostate Organoids
The process typically involves:
1. **Single-cell encapsulation** in Matrigel microbeads using a microfluidic device
2. **Controlled bead generation** via pressure-driven flow systems
3. **Organoid formation** during incubation
4. Optional **genetic modification (e.g., electroporation)**
This workflow enables precise control over:
- Bead size
- Cell distribution
- Microenvironment composition
## Why Use Microbeads for Organoid Culture?
**Single-cell embedded in microbeads:** Each single microbead is considered as a single ‘bioreactor’ for 3D cell culture.
**Clonal generation of organoids:** Each single encapsulated cell gives rise to an organoid derived from clonal origin.
**Monodispersity:** The High Throughput (HT) formation of beads (2000 microbeads/min) of controlled size, shape, composition and cell distribution allows for the generation of homogeneous and ‘standardized’ organoids.
**Reduced volume of matrix:** 2 to 3 times less ECM (ExtraCellular Matrix) than traditional cultures. For example, 350 µl ECM (one well of a LabTek 4-chambers slides) produces 42.800 microbeads with a diameter of 250 µm). This is a great advantage of prostate organoid culture as one of the limitations of these tissues is the simulation of a matrix-embedded environment.
**Easy handling:** Recovery of organoids in culture media for further analysis.
**Storage:** Microbeads with embedded organoids can be cryopreserved for long periods without altering the architecture and function of organoids.
2D CELL CULTURE STANDARD 3D CELL CULTURE 3D CELL CULTURE IN MICROBEADS Biological relevance LowHighHighControl over 3D culture/LowHighEasy handlingYesNoYesClonalityNoNoYesTransfection efficiencyHighLowHighLong term storageYesNoYesHigh throughputYesNoYesCostLowHighMedium
## Organoid Culture Applications
[**Functional genomic studies:**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29394376) Controlled organoid generation combined to 3D iRNA-based electroporation in beads opens new perspectives for flow-based HT genetic screening and functional genomic application. As is the case with prostate organoid culture, the transfection efficiency is optimized by modulating microbead size and ECM concentration. The reduced amount of ECM surrounding organoids constitutes a permissive 3D environment that facilitates transfection. [**PubMed link »**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29394376).
[**Tissue development and tumorigenesis:**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25818441) Collecting microbead-containing organoids at different stages allows users to perform a [multi-omics analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/webinars/how-to-turn-your-fluorescence-microscope-into-a-spatial-omics-platform/) of organoid development or carcinogenesis. [**PubMed link »**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25818441)
[**Organoids / tumoroid-based drug assays:**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28927991) Flow-based strategies prove to be convenient for future HT Screenings in 3D models and identifying potential RNAi therapeutics. [**PubMed link »**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28927991)
[**3D Tool-box:**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27497676) Floating 3D organoids in beads can easily be aspirated, dispensed and sorted by large-particle fluorescence-assisted cell sorting. This flow-based technology opens up broad applications in the field of 3D culture. [**PubMed link »**](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27497676).
Setup for organoids generation and cryopreservation
**FAQ**
**How does microfluidics improve prostate organoid reproducibility?**
Microfluidic systems generate highly monodisperse microbeads with controlled size and composition. This uniformity ensures consistent growth conditions across organoids, reducing variability compared to traditional 3D culture methods.
**Can organoids in microbeads be used for genetic studies?**
Yes. Microbead-based organoid culture combined with techniques such as electroporation enables efficient gene delivery. This allows researchers to perform functional genomics studies and investigate gene function in physiologically relevant 3D models.
**What are the advantages of 3D organoid culture over 2D cell culture?**
Compared to 2D cultures, 3D organoids better mimic in vivo conditions by preserving tissue architecture and cellular interactions. This leads to more predictive results in disease modeling and drug screening.
**Is microbead-based organoid culture suitable for high-throughput screening?**
Yes. Microfluidic platforms can produce thousands of microbeads per minute, making them ideal for high-throughput screening, drug discovery, and large-scale functional assays.
**Why use organoids instead of animal models?**
Organoids better replicate **human-specific biology** by preserving tissue architecture, cell interactions, and genetic features. They provide more predictive results for drug response, reduce ethical concerns, and can be generated from patient-derived cells for personalized studies.
**Why is organoid transfection difficult?**
Organoids are embedded in a dense **extracellular matrix (ECM)** and form compact 3D structures, which limit the penetration of transfection reagents. This physical barrier, combined with cellular heterogeneity, results in lower efficiency compared to 2D cultures.
Courtesy of [Biomicrotechnology and functional genomics (BIOMICS)](http://big.cea.fr/drf/big/BGE/BioMics), CEA, Grenoble, FRANCE.
In collaboration with [Leti, a technology research institute at CEA Tech](http://www.leti-cea.fr/cea-tech/leti)
The *Organoids-on-Chip* project has received funding from the EU’s H2020 research and innovation program (N°766884) ([Read more](https://h2020-orchid.eu/))
## Related Microfluidic Instruments
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
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Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
## Informative bibliography
\[1\] Laperrousaz, B., Porte, S., Gerbaud, S., Ville, H., Gidrol, X., Hourtane, V., & Picollet-D’hahan, N. (2018). [Direct transfection of clonal organoids in Matrigel microbeads: a promising approach toward organoid-based genetic screens](https://doi.org/10.1093/nar/gky030), *Nucleic Acid Research*, 1–13.
\[2\] Dolega, M. E., Abeille, F., Picollet-D’hahan, N., & Gidrol, X. (2015). [Biomaterials Controlled 3D culture in Matrigel microbeads to analyze clonal acinar development](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biomaterials.2015.02.042). *Biomaterials*, *52*, 347–357.
\[3\] Picollet-D’hahan, N., Dolega, M. E., Freida, D., Martin, D. K., & Gidrol, X. (2017). [Deciphering Cell Intrinsic Properties: A Key Issue for Robust Organoid Production](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tibtech.2017.08.003). *Trends in Biotechnology*, *35* (11), 1035–1048.
\[4\] Picollet-D’hahan, N., Dolega, M. E., Liguori, L., Marquette, C., Le Gac, S., Gidrol, X., & Martin, D. K. (2016). [A 3D Toolbox to Enhance Physiological Relevance of Human Tissue Models](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tibtech.2016.06.012). *Trends in Biotechnology*, 1–13.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [A Microfluidic Approach for High-Throughput Raman Spectroscopy of Whole Blood](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/high-throughput-raman-spectroscopy/)
**Published:** April 20, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## A paper from Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and Politecnico di Milano
Paper: Zorzi F, Jensen EA, Serhatlioglu M, Bonfadini S, Dziegiel MH, Criante L, et al. Flow cell for high throughput Raman spectroscopy of non-transparent solutions. Lab Chip. **2024** Dec 17;25(1):69–78.
This study was carried out through a collaboration between leading academic and clinical institutions specializing in **nanotechnology, microfluidics, and biomedical analysis**. The work was led by researchers from [the Center for Nano Science and Technology at the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia (IIT, Milan, Italy),](https://www.iit.it/cnst-polimi) in partnership with the [Politecnico di Milano](https://www.fisi.polimi.it/en) and the [Technical University of Denmark (DTU)](https://www.rigshospitalet.dk/english/departments/centre-of-diagnostic-investigation/department-of-clinical-immunology/pages/department%20of%20clinical%20immunology.aspx).
The project also involved clinical expertise from Copenhagen University Hospital, enabling access to real human blood samples and ensuring strong relevance for biomedical applications. This interdisciplinary collaboration brought together expertise in **microfabrication, optical spectroscopy, and clinical diagnostics,** providing anideal framework for developing and validating i**nnovative Raman-based analytical platforms.**
## Raman Spectroscopy
Raman spectroscopy is an optical technique used to probe the molecular composition of a sample. It relies on the inelastic scattering of light: when a laser interacts with molecules, a small fraction of the scattered light undergoes a shift in energy that is characteristic of the vibrational modes of the molecules. **This spectral fingerprint enables the identification and analysis of chemical species without the need for dyes or markers.** \[2,3\]
Because of its specificity and non-destructive nature, Raman spectroscopy is widely used across multiple fields, including chemistry, materials science, and biomedical diagnostics. In particular, it has gained strong interest for biological applications such as cell analysis, pathogen detection, and blood diagnostics, where label-free and real-time measurements are highly valuable (Figure 1). \[2,3\]
However, despite its potential, Raman spectroscopy faces several key limitations. **The Raman signal is inherently weak, leading to long acquisition times and limiting throughput. In complex and non-transparent samples, signal attenuation and background noise further degrade performance.** \[2,3\]
*Figure 1 Summary of the advantages and disadvantages of Raman spectroscopy in diagnostics 4*
## Why use Raman spectroscopy in Biology: The Case of Whole Blood
In the context of [whole blood](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-rbc-mechanics-by-micropipette-aspiration/), Raman spectroscopy enables the molecular characterization of individual cellular components, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. Each cell type exhibits a distinct spectral signature, allowing their identification and detailed analysis of biochemical composition. This capability is particularly valuable for investigating cellular heterogeneity and detecting disease-related alterations at the single-cell level.
However, whole blood is a **highly complex and challenging matrix** for Raman analysis. The strong optical absorption of hemoglobin, combined with high cell density and the presence of plasma proteins, generates significant background interference and signal distortion. In addition, the coexistence of multiple cell populations makes it **difficult to selectively probe and analyze individual cells** in a reliable and high-throughput manner. These limitations highlight the need for approaches that can precisely control cell positioning and enable [continuous, flow-based measurements](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/microfluidics-and-spectroscopy/), paving the way for more robust and scalable analysis. \[5,6\]
## Aim of the study
This study aims to overcome the major limitations currently hindering the broader application of Raman spectroscopy to complex biological samples, such as whole blood. By developing a microfluidic lab-on-a-chip platform, F. Zorzi *et al.* enhance Raman analysis by increasing throughput, minimizing sample preparation, and enabling evaluation of the entire sample volume. **The goal is to provide faster, more efficient, and scalable measurements** by leveraging hydrodynamic focusing and flow-based analysis.
## Methodology: How to Couple Microfluidics with Raman Spectroscopy
Whole blood samples used in this study were collected from voluntary donors at Copenhagen University Hospital and stored in EDTA tubes at 4°C. During experiments, **blood** was injected as the **sample phase**, while a **PBS-based buffer** containing diluted EDTA was used as a **sheath fluid for hydrodynamic focusing**.
The microfluidic chip was fabricated in fused silica. It employs **3D hydrodynamic focusing** to confine and center the sample stream within a surrounding buffer flow, enabling precise control of the stream size (down to 15 µm) and optimal alignment with the Raman excitation volume. A locally thinned observation region enhanced signal collection while reducing background noise. This design also supported **parallel flow multiplexing**, allowing **high-throughput and simultaneous analysis** of multiple samples (Figure 2).
To ensure [**stable and precise flow control,**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)the microfluidic set-up relied on a pressure-driven system composed of a [**Fluigent MFCS pressure controller**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) which regulates the sample and buffer reservoirs, along with two [**Fluigent Flow Unit sensors**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) for real-time [monitoring of flow rates upstream](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) of the chip. By adjusting the pressure ratio between the sample and sheath flows, the sample stream was **hydrodynamically focused** at the **center of the microchannel**.
**Raman measurements** were performed using a **532 nm continuous-wave laser** focused into the microchannel through a high-NA objective, which also collected the backscattered signal. The Raman signal was separated from the excitation light using dichroic and notch filters, then analyzed via an imaging spectrometer coupled to a cooled CCD camera.
*Figure 2 Schematic of the experimental setup 1*
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Proof of Concept: Microfluidic Raman Analysis of Whole Blood
The study showed improved performance enabled by the microfluidic approach compared to conventional capillary-based measurements. As displayed in Figure 3, **precise hydrodynamic focusing allowed the sample stream to be confined down to 15 µm and matched to the excitation volume, enabling full-volume interrogation within a single measurement.** This resulted in a linear relationship between Raman signal intensity and analyte concentration (Figure 4), confirming the system’s quantitative capability down to micromolar ranges.
*Figure 3 a Raman spectra obtained using isopropanol IPA in the sample inlet and MilliQ water in the buffer inlet with 532 nm as excitation wavelength and integration time of 1 s b Raman intensity maps of channel cross section with focused isopropanol 1*
*Figure 4 a Raman spectra obtained collecting the signal from a focalized stream of a water dilution of IPA at a concentration of 10−4 mol l−1 surrounded by water light blue and by having only water in the channel orange b Calibration curve that correlates the concentration of IPA to the intensity of the peak detected at 819 cm−1 1*
When applied to whole blood, the impact of microfluidics becomes more observed. In Figure 5 and Figure 6, **the microfluidic chip enabled signal collection from nearly 100% of the flowing sample, whereas capillary-based measurements probe only a small fraction (8%), with significant background contribution from the walls.**
This improved sampling efficiency, combined with uniform flow conditions at the channel center, leads to more representative and reproducible measurements, especially for heterogeneous or corpuscular fluids. Therefore, the platform enabled acquisition of Raman spectra to be more representative of the full cell population, which is particularly critical for detecting rare pathological cells.
Importantly, this microfluidic configuration enhances throughput while reducing photodamage. **The higher flow velocity increased the number of cells analyzed per unit time, while the reduced interaction time allowed the use of higher excitation powers without inducing degradation.** This resulted in stronger signals and shorter acquisition times, demonstrating the clear benefit of microfluidics for high-throughput Raman analysis.
*Figure 5 Analyzed regions in the capillary and in the hydrodynamic focusing using whole blood 1*
*Figure 6 a Microscope image of the single hydrodynamic focusing chip used with whole blood in the sample inlet and PBS in the buffer inlet b Blood group A− blood spectrum 1*
## Conclusion
In this study, researchers from the Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia and Politecnico di Milano demonstrated that coupling Raman spectroscopy with a microfluidic lab-on-a-chip platform, enables efficient, label-free analysis of complex fluids such as whole blood. **This approach allows complete sample characterization, enhances signal quality, and markedly increases throughput, while minimizing acquisition time and photodamage.** Overall, it underscores the potential of integrating advanced microfluidics to Raman spectroscopy to deliver reliable, high-throughput, and clinically relevant diagnostic solutions.
## Related Extertises
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Case Studies
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Microfluidics Case Studies Micropipette Aspiration of Red Blood Cells Mechanosensitivity and Mechanics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/micropipette-aspiration-of-red-blood-cells/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
## References
1. Zorzi F, Jensen EA, Serhatlioglu M, Bonfadini S, Dziegiel MH, Criante L, et al. Flow cell for high throughput Raman spectroscopy of non-transparent solutions. Lab Chip. **2024** Dec 17;25(1):69–78. doi:[10.1039/D4LC00586D](https://doi.org/10.1039/D4LC00586D)
2. Keresztury G. Raman Spectroscopy: Theory. In: Chalmers JM, Griffiths PR, editors. Handbook of Vibrational Spectroscopy. 1st edn. Wiley; 2001 \[cited 2026 Apr 7\]. Available from: doi:[10.1002/0470027320.s0109](https://doi.org/10.1002/0470027320.s0109)
3. Kudelski A. Analytical applications of Raman spectroscopy. Talanta. **2008** Jun 30;76(1):1–8. doi:[10.1016/j.talanta.2008.02.042](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.talanta.2008.02.042)
4. Li C, Feng C, Xu R, Jiang B, Li L, He Y, et al. The emerging applications and advancements of Raman spectroscopy in pediatric cancers. Front Oncol. **2023** Feb 6;13. doi:[10.3389/fonc.2023.1044177](https://doi.org/10.3389/fonc.2023.1044177)
5. Jensen EA, Serhatlioglu M, Uyanik C, Hansen AT, Puthusserypady S, Dziegiel MH, et al. Label-Free Blood Typing by Raman Spectroscopy and Artificial Intelligence. Advanced Materials Technologies. **2024**;9(2):2301462. doi:[10.1002/admt.202301462](https://doi.org/10.1002/admt.202301462)
6. Laskowska P, Mrowka P, Glodkowska-Mrowka E. Raman Spectroscopy as a Research and Diagnostic Tool in Clinical Hematology and Hematooncology. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. **2024** Mar 16;25(6). doi:[10.3390/ijms25063376](https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms25063376)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Single cell sorting of Fluorescent Microbeads](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-platform-for-cell-and-particle-sorting-application/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Sorting of 15 and 7 micrometer diameter bead using a microfluidic platform
### Benefits of cell sorting
In many fields of biology, biotechnology, and medicine, isolating and sorting cells from complex, heterogeneous mixtures is a crucial task. Cell sorting is frequently used to enrich or purify cell samples into well-defined populations to increase productivity in research and development applications. Cell sorting also serves as the first step in many diagnostic and therapeutic practices (1).
The need to sort cells is rapidly expanding toward the isolation of rarer target cell populations, including the enrichment of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), and circulating fetal cells (CFCs) from blood (4).
### What is a single cell sorter passive system ?
Single cell sorting platform passive systems consist of a variety of methods that do not rely on fluorescent labels or beads. Instead, these methods rely on the inherent differences in cellular morphology between cell groups (e.g., size, shape, compressibility, and density) and can sort cells using inertial forces, hydrodynamic spreading, deterministic lateral displacement, etc.
In a single cell sorter with a passive system, channels with spiral shapes are used to separate particles according to their size based on the Dean forces. The main benefit of this design is high throughput (>1.5 mL/min). Fluigent and [**microfluidic ChipShop**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/) validated an effective and commercial solution for cell sorting.
Figure 1 a Channel cross section and illustration of the effects of lift FL and Dean forces FD The position at which particles of different sizes equilibrate depends on the ratio FLFD b Schematic drawing of spiral sorter Fluidic 382 The randomly dispersed particles equilibrate at different equilibrium positions along the inner wall of the spiral microchannel
### How to confirme the good seperation of particle mixtures ?
To demonstrate the separation of particle mixtures in the single cell sorting platform, a solution containing 7.5 µm and 15 µm diameter polystyrene particles labeled with FITC and TRITC fluorophore was used. The particle streams were viewed and captured separately using appropriate filter cubes.
Table 1 Advantages and disadvantages of cell sorting using FACS and microfluidics[More about the cell sorting package](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/)
## How to perform single cell sorting
### Starting sorting experiments – Materials
[
### Microfluidic Size Cell Sorting Pack
Microfluidic Size Cell Sorting Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
### Reagents:
Fluorescently labelled polystyrene particles purchased from Bangs Laboratories. 7.3 µm (+/- 0.53 µm) with red fluorescence and 15.25 µm (+/- 0.669 µm) with green fluorescence.
### Optics
The surfaces are monitored using an inverted microscope (Eclipse Ti-U, Nikon) in bright field or in fluorescence mode. For the acquisition of the fluorescent beads, we use the software NIS-Elements with standard Nikon filter cubes for FITC and TRITC.
## What is the method employed to sort single cells?
The 7.3 µm and 15.25 µm fluorescent microbeads are mixed and diluted in DI water before testing to reach a concentration of ~1.105 beads/mL. In order to make the single cell sorter, the [**Flow EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) is connected to the reservoir containing the mixture using a P-CAP. The reservoir is connected to the inlet of the microfluidic device using tubing of 500 µm inner diameter (ID). Tubing passes through the [**Flow Unit**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) to control and monitor flow rate. Tubing is connected to the outlets of the microfluidic device to recover the beads. The flow rate is set using the Flow EZ. Here, sorting units 2 and 3 with flow rates of respectively 1.5 mL/min and 150 µL/min are used. The particle streams were viewed and captured separately using TRITC and FITC filter cubes.
Figure 2 a Complete system b Schematic of the system c Close up of the microfluidic chip
## High-Throughput Separation and Sorting of Fluorescent Microbeads
A homogeneous mixture of 7.3 µm and 15.25 µm fluorescent microbeads are injected into the central inlet of the single cell sorter using flow rates of 1.5 mL/min for unit 2 and 150 µL/min for unit 3. Figure 3 clearly indicates the formation of two distinct particle streams, confirming that 7.3 and 15 µm microbeads are well separated. In addition, as predicted (2) we observe the larger particles (green fluorescence, 15 µm) closer to the inner channel.
In figure 4, the green fluorescence particles are the majority collected at the first and second outlets of the [microfluidic device](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/), while red fluorescence particles are collected at the fourth outlet of the same sorting unit.
This result confirms that **7.3 µm and 15 µm particles are well separated** and subsequently sorted by the microfluidic device with **very high throughput**.
Figure 3 Composite images illustrating the position of the 15 µm green fluorescence and 73 µm red fluorescence diameter particles in the channel section prior to the outlet of unit 3 of the [microfluidic device](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/) Flow rate 15 µLmin 150 µLmin
Figure 4 Composite images illustrating the position of the 15 µm green fluorescence and 73 µm red fluorescence diameter particles in the channel section at the outlet of unit 2 of the microfluidic device Flow rate 15 mLmin
## Conclusion
In this application note, we introduced a commercially-available single cell sorter microfluidic system to **perform a passive size separation of a microparticle mixture**.
The system includes a **spiral-shaped microfluidic device** from microfluidic ChipShop and [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) from Fluigent. Tuning Dean and lift forces induced by spiral microchannels allow users to obtain distinct particle streams and subsequently sort particles according to their sizes. Beads with diameters of 15 and 7.3 µm were successfully sorted using flow rates of 150 µL/min and 1.5 mL/min.
We provide an easy to use, versatile, and cost-effective single-cell sorter for particle-size sorting.
## Related Resources
- [
### WEBINAR: Encapsulation of fluorescent bacteria in double emulsions for FACS sorting
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
- [
### WEBINAR: Single cell encapsulations compatible with FACS sorting, API encapsulations in biocompatible polymers, and more
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-cell-encapsulations/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Application of microfluidic chip technology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### High Throughput Single Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Micropipette aspiration of cells and tissues
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [MYOCHIP | H2020 European project](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/funded-research-program-participation/myochip-h2020-european-project/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## **Introduction**
**Myochip: Building a 3D innervated and irrigated muscle on a chip**
The aim of the European Union’s Horizon H2020 project, Myochip ([https://myochip.imm.medicina.ulisboa.pt](https://myochip.imm.medicina.ulisboa.pt/partners/)) is to build a muscle on chip. Myochip gathers 4 partners from all around the world: The institute of molecular medicine (Portugal), The University of Edinburg (Scotland), and Institut Curie (France).
### **Seeding cells in hydrogels: the benefit of pressure based flow controllers**
Organs on chips are considered as the next generation in vitro models to replace traditional 2D cell culture both in fundamental science and in drug development. This technology focuses on reproducing the microenvironment of cells at the cellular level:
- The intercellular interaction by positioning one cell type relative to another
- The extracellular matrix by reproducing both its composition and its microarchitecture
- The local mechanical constraints by reproducing the shear stress or the local motion of cells
There are very few, if any models available that reproduce all these features. Most of them focus on one aspect to induce a more physiological phenotype to cells.
In this context, Myochip aims to reproduce both the extracellular matrix and the spatial positioning of the 3 different cell types that constitute muscle: muscle cells, endothelial cells and neurons.
The first part of the project is dedicated to the reproduction of muscle fibres. As they differentiate muscle cells fuse to form a syncytium. Their nuclei are positioned on the external part of the fibre and the cytoskeleton organize to form a network of actin and myosin that controls muscle contractility. Muscle fibres have a typical size of a hundred microns in diameter and a few millimetres in length.
Figure 1 *Scheme of the microfluidic chip*To induce cellular self-organization, [Institut Curie](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/multiscale-physics-biology-chemistry/umr168-physical-chemistry/team-descroix/) first textured the collagen I to create hollow cylindric channels of 200µm in diameter spaced 200µm apart inside the collagen bulk. Muscle cells are then seeded inside. This allows the cells to adhere, proliferate, grow and organize into myofibers. Besides the complexity of the chip architecture in structuring the scaffold, another challenge is in the seeding itself. In typical chips made out of polymers, cells are seeded manually with a pipette. With hydrogels, however, the seeding should be finely controlled. Hydrogels are highly fragile and the non-controlled pipetting on cells leads to hydrogel distortions and even to hydrogel detachment from the chip.
[**Movie and image courtesy of Manh Louis Nguyen, MMBM team , Institut Curie**](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/multiscale-physics-biology-chemistry/umr168-physical-chemistry/team-descroix/)
To overcome this issue, a [Flow-EZ pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) was used to gently inject cells inside the collagen channels. The pulse free injection preserves the architecture of the 3D hydrogel and promotes improved cell survival when compared to the acute shear stress associated with manual pipetting. The difference between these two modes of injection are illustrated in the videos below:
**Catégories de ressource:** Funded Research Program
---
### [Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
**Published:** June 15, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Microfluidic flow-controllers for organ-on-a-chip applications
[**Organ-on-chip (OOC**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)) can be used to mimic the structure and function of human organs in a microscale device \[1\]. OOC devices typically consist of cells or organoids contained in [**microfluidic channels**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) designed to closely replicate particular organ responses. By [recreating the **microenvironment** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/ " recreating the microenvironment ") and cellular interactions of an organ, OOC technology provides a more physiologically relevant model for studying organ function, disease mechanisms, and drug responses compared to traditional two-dimensional cell cultures or animal models.
*Figure 1: *Illustration of OOC with media perfusion and recirculation integration.**
One of the main factors involved in replicating the physiological microenvironment in OOC devices is [**controlled liquid perfusion systems**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) to deliver nutrients and transport drugs, metabolites, and transcriptomic factors. Researchers have access to a variety of flow-control technologies, [**each having their advantages and their disadvantages**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) (Table 1).
### 1. Peristaltic Pumps
[**Peristaltic pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/) use positive displacement to squeeze a flexible tube to create a pulsatile flow of liquid through the tube. They are accessible and easy-to-set-up systems used in biological fields, as are is compatible with various types of fluids. They present a low risk of contamination as the liquid only contacts the tubing. Flow rate control and pressure capabilities are low, and the pulsatile aspect may not be suitable for certain applications, such as [**vascularized models**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)**.**
### 2. Syringe Pumps
A syringe pump is a mechanical motor-driven pump that uses one or more syringes for fluids infusion. They are **user-friendly**, with **intuitive control** interfaces for programming and adjusting parameters such as flow rate, volume, and infusion rates.
They can provide both **continuous** and **intermittent flow**, depending on the programming settings. This feature is useful for experiments or procedures that require specific flow patterns.
Despite their advantages, **syringe pumps have a few limitations** such as:
- Low flow rate control and responsiveness
- Limited volume of the syringe which will require periodic refilling steps
- An increased risk of contamination as the fluid is in direct contact with the syringe
It is difficult to recycle perfusion media continuously
### 3. Pressure flow controller
Pressure flow controllers use pneumatic systems to generate pressure and drive the liquid flow through the microfluidic device. Their advantages include: [**high flow rate stability**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) and [**fast responsiveness**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/). They can provide **continuous or** **pulsatile flow** options and can be integrated into multi-organ systems. Choosing the right perfusion technology depends on your OOC’s specific demands for flow rate, pressure & flow profile, pulsatility, and cell-compatibility. **For detailed specifications, [see this review](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/).**
*TABLE 1 : Comparison of different microfluidic technologies used for OOC*
Peristaltic PumpSyringe PumpPressure driven Pump**Flow stability** **and** p**recision**Low MediumHigh **Time** **responsiveness**HighLowHigh **Fluid recirculation**☑️✖️☑️ [L-switch](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/) **Ability to inject small volumes**Low HighMedium**Sample agitation**☑️✖️☑️****Possibility to create (program) complex flow profile**** ✖️✖️☑️ [(LineUp Series)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/ "(LineUp Series)")
### Why use pressure control for Organ-on-Chip applications?
[**Microfluidic pressure control**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) enables researchers to precisely control and recreate the **flow rates**, **shear stresses**, and **mechanical forces** experienced by cells and tissues within the microfluidic device. By closely replicating in vivo physiological conditions, it enhances the **reliability and reproducibility** of experimental outcomes.
Since pressure is an intrinsic driver of the flow, modulating it allows fine-tuned control over fluid dynamics to establish **physiological gradients** and deliver **targeted mechanical cues** that influence cell behavior, differentiation, and function. This capability underpins the creation of complex microenvironments — from precise vascular **shear profiles** to defined **interstitial pressure** landscapes.
Precise pressure control is essential for controlled **drug delivery and perfusion** within the organ-on-a-chip device. It allows for controlled exposure of cells and tissues to drugs, toxins, or other substances, enabling the assessment of their effects on organ function and response.
## Considerations for Organ-on-Chip Applications
Media perfusion of OOC devices serves as a circulatory system that maintains a concentration gradient for nutrient and waste convective transport \[2\]. The choice of the microfluidic [**liquid perfusion system**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/) to connect to the organ-on-a-chip needs to be considered based on several factors:
- **Flow rate, pressure control and pulsatility**
Reproducing a physiological microenvironment requires mimicking the same conditions *in-vivo,* depending on the studied organ system. Lung-on-chip models, that aim to mimic the breathing motion and airflow in the lungs, may require low-to-moderate flow rates (a few microliters per minute) and gentle pressure conditions to simulate breathing dynamics and the alveolar microenvironment accurately \[3\]. Other applications such as heart-on-chip models often require pulsatile flow to mimic the rhythmic contraction of the heart. They may need higher flow rates (tens to hundreds of microliters per minute) and moderate-to-higher pressure capabilities to generate pulsatile flow patterns that replicate the physiological pumping action of the heart.
- **Cell viability and shear stress**
OOC systems culture living cells and tissues that are sensitive to mechanical forces and fluidic conditions. Excessive [**shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) can impact cell viability, [**proliferation**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-as-a-tool-to-evaluate-cell-growth/) and functionality. It is important to consider the shear stress levels generated by the pump type and select one that minimizes potential damage to the cells while maintaining adequate fluid flow. When working with neuronal cells in brain models that are sensitive to shear stress, it is crucial to carefully control flow rates and avoid high shear stress conditions that could disrupt cell networks or induce cell damage \[4\].
- **Integration and compatibility**
OOC models are aiming to replicate interactions between different organs within the human body. For example, [**liver-on-chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/) and lung-on-chip may be connected in series to study drug metabolism and toxicity effects. The systems used for each organ model need to be optimized to enable fluid flow and communication between the different chips. Some OOC models may also include pH measurement levels, oxygen control, and electrical activity sensors, hence the importance of considering compatibility with the microfluidic pressure controller.[ L**ong-term cultures**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/ " Long-term cultures") and imaging/analysis techniques are crucial for any OOC experiment, therefore it is important to consider the compatibility between the microfluidic platform and the Bio-cabinet/imaging/analysis equipment, including positioning, sample accessibility, and optical clarity.
- **Contamination risk**
Maintaining a sterile environment is essential in in-vitro model development to reduce variability and ensure reproducible results. Some pump designs allow fluid to contact internal components, increasing the risk of contamination. For organ-on-chip (OOC) applications, pumps that minimize or eliminate fluid contact with internal components are preferred.
## Understanding microfluidic pressure control
### Pressure controller for OOC
In [**microfluidics systems,**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/), there are these components that work together to enable researchers to simulate dynamic microenvironments, maintain stable conditions for long-term experiments, and precisely control flow direction.
Component Function Role in OOC System [**Pressure sources**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/) Create and regulate the driving force behind fluid movement Fluid perfusion across tissue/organ models Pressure and Flow [**Sensors**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/) Monitor internal pressure and flow rate within microchannels Ensure that physiological pressure/flow conditions are maintained without damaging sensitive cells **Pressure controllers** Adjust flow based on sensor feedback to maintain set conditions Stable, long-term culture and dynamic response to changes in the chip environment (e.g. clogging by overgrowth of cells) [**Valves**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) Direct, open, or restrict fluid flow within the microchannels Enable multiplexing, media recirculation, time-controlled stimulation, and multi-organ interaction studies Feedback Control System (e.g. Software control) Use real-time data to dynamically adjust pressure or flow Support pulsatile flow, automated workflows, and consistent simulation of physiological dynamics
By integrating these components, researchers can effectively use Fluigent’s microfluidic pressure control (Figure 2) to create accurate fluidic environment by recirculating the media in the organ-on-chip.
This setup was tested in collaboration with Beonchip and evaluated against conventional peristaltic pumps to assess the impact of flow stability on cell behavior. Given that **endothelial cells are highly sensitive to even minor variations in flow rate**, maintaining consistent shear stress is critical for physiological relevance in Organ-on-Chip studies.
[Watch the Full Webinar: Organ on chip Towards the next generation of cell culture platforms ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-a-chip-and-cell-culture-platforms/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/schema-l-switch.png)*Figure 2: *Example of Fluigent’s recirculation system using microfluidic pressure controllers. Two Flow EZs are connected to two reservoirs. Tubing passes through the L-SWITCH (allowing media recirculation), a flow unit, and the microfluidic device. The software used to control the system is OxyGEN.**
### Omi, integrated Organ-on-a-chip Fluidic Platform
Building upon Fluigent’s established pressure-based microfluidic systems, the **[Omi platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Omi platform")** represents a modular and integrated solution (with pressure source, sensors and valves) for **managing complex fluid handling protocols** in Organ-on-a-Chip (OOC) applications.
Designed to extend the functionality of classical Fluigent setups, [Omi ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Omi ")provides a unified interface for **precise pressure regulation, flow control**, and **automated fluid switching**, enabling reproducible execution of protocols such as *perfusion, recirculation, injection, and sampling.*
**Key technical features include:**
- **Chip compatibility** through universal adapters, allowing integration with a broad range of OOC devices
- **Remote operation** via Wi-Fi and tablet application (Android)
- **Cloud-based data storage** for streamlined monitoring and experiment tracking
- **Programmable fluidic routines** suitable for compound testing, including drugs, toxins, and metabolites
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
Figure 3 Fluigents **Organ on a Chip Fluidic platform** Omi
## Organ-on-chip Applications using Fluigent’s systems
In recent years, there have been remarkable advances in organ-on-a-chip (OOC) models—most notably kidney-on-a-chip \[2\]\[8\], lung-on-a-chip \[3\], heart-on-a-chip\[5\], skin-on-a-chip\[6\], pancreas-on-a-chip\[7\], brain-on-a-chip \[8\], etc. **Pressure controlled microfluidics** have been instrumental in addressing key challenges in these systems by:
- Providing **controlled, directional fluid exposure** to better mimic in vivo perfusion
- Establishing gradient flows for precise dosing studies
- Enabling co-culture and spatial layering of multiple cell types to reproduce complex organ architecture
- Incorporating human-derived cells to create **more physiologically relevant models** than traditional animal systems
Microfluidic OOC platforms are transforming the research in personalized medicine and high-throughput drug screening, single-cell analysis, cell–cell interaction studies, and disease modeling, that in return provides deeper insights into human physiology and the development of more effective therapeutics.
Researchers worldwide have widely adopted Fluigent’s **microfluidic pressure control systems to develop and investigate organ-on-chip models.**
[See their testimonials](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidic-products-user-testimonials/)
### Blood vessel-on-a-chip
To overcome challenges in reproducing stable flow conditions across multiple vessel-on-a-chip (VoC) models, Valeria Orlova’s team \[10\] [developed a fluidic circuit board](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/) (FCB) enabling simultaneous perfusion of up to twelve 3D-VoCs using a unified set of control parameters.
By incorporating Fluigent’s FlowEZ pressure controllers, Link-Up module, and flow sensors, the system ensures consistent wall shear stress and haemodynamic forces—that are critical for maintaining endothelial cell function and vascular integrity.
This multiplexed approach marks a significant step forward in scaling and standardizing 3D vascular models**.** For a detailed overview of the system and experimental outcomes,[ read the case study here](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/ " read the case study here").
*Figure 4: Photograph of the tested fluidic circuit board connected to the external medium reservoirs in a heat block & 3D reconstruction of a blood vessel on a chip.*
Figure 5 Flow Illustration of flow board Animation illustrating fluid flow in manifold of 3D VoC GIF
### Cancer-on-chip
Van Gent’s team developed a **Cancer-on-a-Chip microfluidic platform** (Figure 6) for the assessment of patient treatment responses using tumor tissue slices under controlled growth conditions \[11\]. Their microfluidic pressure control system consists of Fluigent’s [**MFCS-EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) high-throughput platform. They were able to maintain cell viability and sustain proliferation of breast and prostate cancer PDX tumor slices for up to 14 days. They also studied the tumor slices response to cisplatin chemotherapeutic treatment. Their platform could be used for future studies including biopsies of patient tumors that will be treated with the same chemotherapy. [Explore the results and discussion further here. ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/ "Explore the results and discussion further here. ")(Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform by Erasmus MC)
**Figure 6: (A) Cross-section of the Cancer-on-a-Chip system illustrating the diffusion and perfusion toward the tissue slice. (A’) The Cancer-on-a-Chip platform connected to a Fluigent Microfluidic flow control system further connected to* [***flowrate sensors***](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/) *(Fluigent FLOW UNIT-S) using* [***Fluigent’s software***](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/) *throughout the culture period.**
### Cartilage-on-a-chip
Séverine le Gac’s team developed a [**cartilage on chip model**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/) using microfluidic control system (MFCS-EZ, 2 switches and a switchboard) to simulate how chondrocytes react to external stimuli (mechanical or chemical) and to understand processes triggering cartilage diseases like osteoarthritis \[12\] (Figure 7). This setup notably implements mechanical stimulation on 3D cell cultures and studies the cell response to these stimulations in situ, while also creating dynamic culture conditions. [Read the complete application note ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/ "Read the complete application note ")with details of the model (Complex mechanical stimulation on cartilage-on-a-chip).
*Figure 7: Chondrocyte deformation after mechanical stimulation.*
### Gut-on-a-chip model
Researchers at the Institut Pasteur de Lille have developed a cost-effective and user-friendly Gut-on-Chip (GoC) platform—the **3DP-µGut**—to broaden access to organ-on-chip technologies for gut health and host–pathogen interaction studies.
Unlike conventional GoC systems that rely on costly commercial chips, advanced CAD skills, and cleanroom facilities, the 3DP-µGut is fabricated using a standard SLA 3D printer and freely available design files. This enables medium-throughput production of reproducible, imaging-compatible chips at low cost.
The model was validated using Caco-2 cells, which differentiated into a 3D epithelium after seven days, closely **mimicking the native intestinal structure**. Its open design allows compatibility with various microfluidic systems, including Fluigent’s **Omi integrated platform** and **FlowEZ pressure controllers**, used in the validation process.
To learn more about GoC implementation, flow control strategies, and approaches to modeling host–microbiome interactions:
**Webinar: Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip, featuring the Gut-on-a-Chip Model**
Our expert from Institute Pasteur Lille showcase the Gut-on-Chip (GoC) model, supported by the Omi automated platform, highlighting its applications and benefits.
[Watch the webinar recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
## Conclusion
**Pressure-controlled microfluidics** play a pivotal role in advancing organ-on-a-chip (OOC) research by **offering precise, stable, and responsive fluid handling**. Compared to other technologies, pressure-based systems **better replicate physiological conditions**, supporting **long-term cell viability**, **reproducible experiments**, and **complex flow profiles**. Whether simulating vascular shear stress or enabling multi-organ interactions, pressure control ensures optimal performance and reliability in OOC platforms. With solutions like Fluigent’s integrated systems, researchers can now implement customizable setups for their OOC experiments.
## Related Products
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies A microfluidic Artery-on-a-Chip using Fluigent’s Microfluidic Flow Control System, the MFCS Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/artery-on-a-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Creating a Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform using Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Human Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) permeability -on-chip assessment Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
## References
1. Leung CM, de Haan P, Ronaldson-Bouchard K, et al. A guide to the organ-on-a-chip. Nat Rev Methods Primers. 2022;2:33. doi:10.1038/s43586-022-00118-6
2. Lee SKJ. Kidney-on-a-Chip: a new technology for predicting drug efficacy, interactions, and drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Curr Drug Metab. 2018;19(7):577–583.
3. Zamprogno P, Wüthrich S, Achenbach S. Second-generation lung-on-a-chip with an array of stretchable alveoli made with a biological membrane. Commun Biol. 2021;4:168.
4. Regmi S, Fu A, Luo K. High shear stresses under exercise condition destroy circulating tumor cells in a microfluidic system. *Sci Rep*. 2017;7:39975. doi:10.1038/srep39975.
5. Liu H, Bolonduro OA, Ning Hu JJ, Rao AA, Duffy BM, Huang Z, et al. Heart-on-a-Chip model with integrated extra- and intracellular bioelectronics for monitoring cardiac electrophysiology under acute hypoxia. Nano Lett. 2020;20(6):2585–2593.
6. Lukács B, Bajza Á, Kocsis D, Csorba A, Antal I, Ivan K, et al. Skin-on-a-Chip device for ex vivo monitoring of transdermal delivery of drugs—design, fabrication, and testing. Pharmaceutics. 2019;11(9):445.
7. Mun KS, Arora K, Huang Y. Patient-derived pancreas-on-a-chip to model cystic fibrosis-related disorders. Nat Commun. 2019;10:3124.
8. Raimondi LI, Tunesi M, Comar M, Albani D, Giordano C, et al. Organ-On-A-Chip in vitro models of the brain and the blood–brain barrier and their value to study the microbiota–gut–brain axis in neurodegeneration. Front Bioeng Biotechnol. 2020;8:435.
9. Menéndez AC, Du Z, van den Bosch TPP, Othman A, Gaio N, Silvestri C, et al. Creating a kidney organoid vasculature interaction model using a novel organ-on-chip system. Sci Rep. 2022;12(1):20699
10. de Graaf MNS, Vivas A, Kasi DG, van den Hil FE, van den Berg A, van der Meer AD, Mummery CL, Orlova VV. Multiplexed fluidic circuit board for controlled perfusion of 3D blood vessels-on-a-chip. Lab Chip. 2023; 23**:68-181.
11. Chakrabarty S, Quiros-Solano WF, Kuijten MMP, Haspels B, Mallya S, Lo CSY, et al. A microfluidic cancer-on-chip platform predicts drug response using organotypic tumor slice culture. Cancer Res. 2022;82(3):510-520
12. Paggi CA, Hendriks J, Karperien M, Le Gac S. Emulating the chondrocyte microenvironment using multi-directional mechanical stimulation in a cartilage-on-chip. Lap Chip. 2022;22(9):1815-1828
**Catégories de ressource:** Advantages of Pressure-Based Microfluidics
---
### [CEA/CNRS: A flow cell for nanoscopic imaging in liquid](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cea-cnrs-a-flow-cell-dedicated-to-imaging-in-liquid-at-the-nanoscale/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## LIONS: Interdisciplinary Laboratory on Nanoscale and Supramolecular Organization
The flow cell for nanoscopic imaging was developed by the **Interdisciplinary Laboratory on Nanoscale and Supramolecular Organization (LIONS)**, one of the 7 laboratories of NIMBE (Nanoscience and Innovation for Materials, Biomedicine and Energy), a CEA-CNRS joint research project belonging to the University of Paris-Saclay, France. NIMBE’s research activity is focused on the design, processing, and analysis of matter from micron scale to nanoscale, and on the understanding of physicochemical mechanisms and their synergies. LIONS has 15 permanent members (with a 16th to be added soon) and 12 PhD and master’s students whose activities focus on the understanding and utilization of self-assembly for creating useful and safe supramolecular architectures. They have published over 500 research papers in some of the world’s most prestigious academic journals, and have filed more than 10 patents since 2006. Today, they focus on 3 main research topics: rational synthesis of nano-objects (nucleation growth, biomineralization …), reactivity at the nanoscale and under confinement (catalysis, radiolysis, energy storage…), and nano/bio interactions (nanomedicine, nanotoxicity, diagnostics…).
To support these research topics, LIONS has developed its own specific tools (homemade SAXS, irradiation devices, 3D printed specific sample environments, lab on a chip, etc.). Among those tools, [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) offers an ideal environment for controlling the synthesis of nano-objects, such as inorganic [nanoparticles](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/), and for characterizing the nucleation pathway. Designed to be efficiently coupled to analytical techniques, it should lead us to a completely renewed understanding of the very early stages of crystallization.
[Read more about LIONS](https://iramis.cea.fr/en/Pisp/lions/index.html)
[Read more about NIMBE](https://iramis.cea.fr/nimbe/)
In a paper published in July 2020 in collaboration with the ENS Paris and the SOLEIL synchrotron, LIONS researchers present and fully characterize a flow cell for nanoscopic imaging.1 Its use as a routine sample environment for soft X-ray spectromicroscopy is demonstrated through the spectral analysis of inorganic particles in water.
**“The stepwise variation of the inlet pressure resulted in similarly stepwise changes in the flow rate values, with no detectable transients. This result was attributed to the quality of the pressure controller \[…\]”**
*Corinne Chevallard – NIMBE/LIONS, CEA-CNRS*
## A pressure-actuated flow cell for nanoscopic imaging using soft x-ray spectromicroscopy in liquid media
### Introduction
Transmission spectromicroscopes relying on electron or soft X-ray beams are traditionally employed to image and characterize samples at the micro- and nanoscales in fields like materials science, geology, and biology. As these approaches are subject to experimental constraints such as micrometer sample thickness and a vacuum environment, there is a huge interest in performing *in situ* studies. Today this is mainly done by using closed flow cells with an electron-transparent window (usually silicon nitride membranes) to tightly isolate the liquid sample from the microscope vacuum.
Today, many *in situ* TEM studies exist, but few of them have utilized closed cells for *in situ* scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM). The latter is complementary to STEM, as it can provide both structural and chemical information on larger objects, like biological cells, with fewer artefacts and a suitable spatial resolution.
### Using Fluigent products to develop a flow cell for nano-scale imaging
To fill this gap, the LIONS laboratory and collaborators have developed a dedicated sample environment for STXM. They worked on the design, hydrodynamic characterization, and complete validation of a new flow cell for nanoscopic imaging using STXM in liquid environments. The central element of this system is a flow cell that channels the liquid between two silicon [chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/) supporting the SiN windows. More specifically, these two chips form a silicon chamber a few microns thick, and are arranged in a holder with micromachined fluidic access ports (Fig. 2). Fluid is actuated using a Fluigent [MFCS-EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) pressure controller, which applies a controlled gas pressure on top of the solution to be injected (Fig. 1b). Fluigent M-switch and 2-switch [valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) are used to select the working fluid and to choose the fluidic pathway, either through or bypassing the cell.
 *Figure 1 Fluidic actuation of the flow cell a Photograph of the whole system b Corresponding diagram of the various parts*
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
**Figure 2 Structure of the flow cell a Photographs of the internal sides of both chips and a corresponding cross section diagram of their assembly**
To fill this gap, the LIONS laboratory and collaborators have developed a dedicated sample environment for STXM. They worked on the design, the hydrodynamic characterization, and the full validation of a new fluidic system allowing imaging by STXM in liquid environment. The central element of this system is a flow cell that channels the liquid between two silicon chips supporting the SiN windows. More specifically, these two chips form a silicon chamber, a few microns thick, and are arranged in a holder with micromachined fluidic access ports (Fig. 2). Fluid is actuated using a Fluigent pressure controller MFCS-EZ, which applies a controlled gas pressure on top of the solution to be injected (Fig. 1b). Fluigent M-switch and 2-switch valves are respectively used to select the working fluid and to choose the fluidic pathway, either through or bypassing the cell.
## Results
### Response of the flow cell for nanoimaging to fluidic actuation
The authors varied the applied pressure difference, ΔP, while recording the flow rate both upstream and downstream of the flow cell using two Fluigent [flow meters](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/). The stepwise variation of the inlet pressure resulted in similarly stepwise changes in the flow rate values, with no detectable transients (Fig. 3).
This result was attributed to the quality of the [pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) and to the rigidity of both the tubes and the flow cell. Identical values recorded by the two flowmeters confirmed that there were no leaks in the microfluidic system.
**Figure 3 Response of the flow cell for nano scale imaging to variations in the actuation pressure difference**
### Scanning transmission soft X-ray spectromicroscopy in water
The authors also demonstrated proof-of-principle observations by performing in-situ observations of calcium carbonate nanoparticles. A typical image of mineral precipitate in aqueous medium, acquired at the Ca L2-edge, is shown in Fig. 4a. XAS measurements were performed to confirm that calcium is present within the particles and almost undetectable in the surrounding liquid (Fig. 4b). X-ray absorption spectra of the precipitate were recorded, allowing us to specify the amorphous state of the probed material by analyzing the peak positions (Fig. 4c).
****Figure 4 In situ observation of calcium carbonate nanoparticles a STXM images b Hyperspectral image displaying the transmitted intensity along the yellow dashed line displayed in a c Optical density spectrum of the precipitate****
## Related resources
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [High-throughput cell DNA screening using digital PCR ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/high-throughput-cell-dna-screening-using-digital-pcr/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to DNA Screening Using Digital PCR
Polymerase Chain Reaction, or PCR, has an almost ubiquitous presence in biomedical sciences. Due to the ease of execution and the exquisite sensitivity offered by PCR, which covers amplification from a single template molecule up to about nine orders of magnitude, the applications of PCR are widespread. This includes targeted mutagenesis, DNA screening using digital PCR, virus diagnosis and analysis, and more. (1).
[Droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) offers significant advantages for performing high-throughput screens and sensitive assays. Droplets make it possible to considerably reduce sample volumes, which lowers costs. Compartmentalization in droplets increases assay sensitivity by increasing the effective concentration of rare species and decreasing the time required to reach detection thresholds. Droplet microfluidics combines these powerful features to enable previously inaccessible high-throughput screening applications, including [**single-cell**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/) and single-molecule assays (2).
**Droplet digital PCR** (ddPCR) is based on the amplification of single target DNA molecules in many separate droplets, which provides a new method for accurate quantification of DNA copy numbers. In a ddPCR assay, the distribution of target DNA molecules among the reactions follow Poisson statistics, which means that the majority of reactions contain either one or zero target DNA molecules. DdPCR has several advantages over more traditional qPCR methods.
1. It enables the absolute quantification of target nucleic acid without the reliance on rate-based measurements and the need to use calibration curves.
2. It demonstrates high sensitivity and precision for low-copy-number target nucleic acids. (2,3).
In this application note, the objective is to use Fluigent products to perform DNA screenings using digital PCR by isolating individual DNA molecules and analyzing the enzymes resulting from their expression.
## How to perform high-throughput digital DNA screening
### Materials: Products
Fluigent pressure-driven flow control solutions are ideal for high-throughput droplet generation for DNA screening, as the excellent [flow stability](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/) offered by this technology ensures high droplet monodispersity, a controlled encapsulation rate, and experimental reproducibility.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
### Methods
*****Figure 1*** *A graphic representation of the droplet chip used to combine the PCR and IVT droplets The* [*Fluigent MFCS™ EZ pressure controller*](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) *controlled by software allows users to create two emulsions simultaneously The* [*Flow Unit*](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/frp-flow-rate-platform/) *allows users to control the flow rates during the experiment***
For these studies, it is important that the droplets be generated at the correct frequency and at a uniform size. Using the [**MFCS™-EZ** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)in this experiment is critical, as the device generates **stable flows and precise control** of the different phases.
### Part one: generation of the pcr/dna droplets
To perform DNA high-throughput digital screening using digital PCR, two separate emulsions were first generated. The first one encapsulated an aqueous phase of a PCR and DNA mixture in an organic continuous phase on a dedicated chip. To do this, the initial sample is injected into the microfluidic droplet generator, where it is cut into highly-monodisperse droplets by a perpendicular stream of perfluorinated oil (figure 2). Each droplet contains either one or zero molecules of DNA. The amplification step triggers the activation or production of a fluorescent dye in the droplets containing the targeted DNA. Counting the number of fluorescent droplets is equivalent to counting the number of DNA molecules.
******Figure 2*** *Schematics of a digital PCR assay****
### Part two: fusion of one pcr droplet with one ivt droplet generated on a chip
A green fluorescent marker is added to the PCR primers to make them visible at the end of the process. These droplets either contain DNA to be enhanced or are empty. An orange dye is also added to measure the size of the droplet, where the intensity of the light captured by a CCD camera is proportional to the size of the droplet.
For DNA screenings using digital PCR, after amplification, the PCR droplets must be injected into a second chip. This chip generates IVT droplets, while also synchronizing them to create one PCR droplet that is inserted between two IVT droplets. The IVT droplets contain an orange dye to differentiate the contents. Fusion is processed by the application of an electric field.
###
## Results
***Figure 3*** *Droplet fusion and PCR analysis*
Our set-up features fast start-up and an automated configuration that allows the experiment to be performed without constant adjustments, thus saving time and enabling systemic screening. By continuously measuring the lows and pressures, the performance of the fluidic system can be evaluated at a glance, providing full control of the process.
In our experimental DNA screening using digital PCR, we obtained a 1/1 fusion at an 85% to 88% success rate (no fusion: 10%, double fusion: 5%) with stable and synchronized decays.
This graph represents a count of droplets with given orange and green signals. The darker red dot signifies a large number of droplets with these characteristics, while light blue represents a low number of droplets. The green signal shows the presence of DNA in the PCR droplet, and the orange one is relevant for detecting the occurrence of fusion.
## Conclusion
To perform DNA screening using digital PCR, it is essential to have high stability in order to obtain reproducible and optimal results. Flow-rate control solutions based on pressure actuation provide:
- High droplet monodispersity (even at low low-rates over long time periods.)
- Straightforward, easily automated setup
- Precise volume and low control – even with complex, multi-channel chips to minimize cross-talk between low channels.
- Ability to detect and compensate for small disruptions such as air bubbles.
## Related resources
[
### PDMS Drop-seq chip for Drop-seq experiments
Drop-seq chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/drop-seq-chip/)
[
### Drop-Seq Pack
Start Drop-Seq experiments
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/drop-seq-package/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Water in Oil Emulsions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
## References
1. Hoshino, T. and Inagaki, F. (2012) “Molecular quantification of environmental DNA using microfluidics and digital PCR,” Systematic and Applied Microbiology, 35(6), pp. 390–395. Available at: .
2. Payne, E.M. et al. (2020) “High-throughput screening by droplet microfluidics: Perspective into key challenges and future prospects,” Lab on a Chip, 20(13), pp. 2247–2262. Available at: .
3. Markey, A.L., Mohr, S. and Day, P.J.R. (2010) “High-throughput droplet PCR,” Methods, 50(4), pp. 277–281. Available at: .
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microfluidics overview: History and Definition](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
**Published:** January 3, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## What is microfluidics?
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) is a field at the intersection of physics, engineering, and biology that has evolved over several decades. Microfluidics is both the science that **studies the behavior of fluids** flowing through micro-channels, and the technology of systems that **process or manipulate small (10-6 to 10-12 L)** amounts of fluids using microminiaturized devices containing chambers and channels through which fluids flow or are confined.
This discipline has been growing exponentially since the 1990s, and is viewed as an essential tool for life science research or biotechnologies more generally. It is a very attractive technology for both [academic researchers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/) and [industrial groups](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/) because it considerably decreases sample and reagent consumption, shortens experiment times, and reduces the overall costs of applications.
## Working principle of microfluidics
**Microfluidics** deals with very **precise fluid control** usings **small volumes and spaces**, with the “micro” prefix referring to one or more of the following features:
- **Small volumes (µL, nL, pL, fL)**
- **Small size (mm, µm)**
**Microfluidic chips** are the devices used in microfluidic studies in which **microchannels have been molded or patterned**. The microchannels are connected to allow fluids to pass through different channels, moving from one location to another.
Active microfluidics refers to fluid handling performed by active components such as microfluidic pumps or microfluidic valves. Microfluidic pumps, such as pressure-driven controllers, peristaltic or syringe pumps, supply fluids in a continuous way or are used for dosing, whereas microfluidic valves can inject precise volumes of sample or buffer.
## Components of a microfluidic setup
A microfluidic system typically consists of various components designed to manipulate and control the flow of fluids on a microscale. Here are some common components found in microfluidic systems:
- **Microchannels:** Small, intricate pathways on a chip through which fluids flow. These channels are often fabricated using microfabrication techniques like photolithography.
- **Reservoirs:** The points where fluids are loaded into or collected from the microfluidic system. They act as source and sink locations for the liquids being manipulated.
- [Microfluidic valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/): They regulate the flow of fluids within microfluidic channels. They can be passive (relying on the geometry of the channels) or active (electronically controlled). Valves are crucial for directing and stopping fluid flow as needed.
- [Microfluidic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/): They generate pressure or flow to drive the movement of fluids through the microchannels. Various types of pumps, including syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps, may be integrated into microfluidic systems.
- [Sensors:](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/) Optical or electrochemical sensors are integrated to detect and analyze the properties of the fluids, allowing for real-time monitoring and feedback.
- Detectors: They identify specific signals or changes in the fluids. Common detectors include photodetectors for optical analyses or electrodes for electrochemical sensing.
- [Microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/): The microfluidic chip itself is a key component, acting as the physical platform on which all the channels, valves, and other elements are integrated. It is often made from materials like glass or polymers.
- [Software and control system](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/): Used to program and monitor the operation of the microfluidic system. It controls the various components, such as pumps and valves, to execute specific fluidic processes.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
Some systems have additional components such as mixers, microvalves, detectors, [temperature controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/microfluidic-reservoir-block-heater/), etc. These [components](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/) work in harmony to create a microfluidic system capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from chemical analyses and synthesis to biological studies and diagnostics.
- Concepts of Microfluidics
- LineUp Series, the new generation of microfluidic controllers
## WEBINAR REPLAY – Overview of Microfluidics
This webinar aims to provide a broad introduction to microfluidics and related physical principles. The webinar will also feature some typical applications in microfluidics.
What you will learn:
- Introduction to microfluidics: Definitions and terminology, history and areas of application.
- Overview of common microfluidic systems:
- Microfluidic chips
- Microfluidic flow controllers
- Physical principles related to microfluidics:
- Laminar flow
- Diffusion in microfluidics and how to control mixing
- Droplet microfluidics:
- Definitions and related physics
- Droplet chip designs and droplet generation regimes
- Surfactants in droplet microfluidics
## Webinar Replay – LineUp Series, the new generation of microfluidic controllers
Discover the [LineUp™ Series,](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/ "LineUp™ Series,") Fluigent’s leading fluidic delivery platform.
A complete solution, including software for automation, to easily adapt to any microfluidic setup and provide unmatched accuracy, simplicity, and versatility.
### What will be covered?
Introduction to microfluidic systems and pressure-based flow controller.
Discover Fluigent’s revolutionary pressure-based systems
A complete overview of the LineUp™ series features and capabilities
### Why you should attend:
Challenge your current microfluidic setup with Fluigent revolutionary solutions
Discover unsuspected features and modules of the LineUp series and its future developments
You are developing a new microfluidic experiment and wonder how Fluigent solutions can help you
---
## Advantages and Key Principles of Microfluidics
Microfluidics is a very attractive technology offering an [array of advantages](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/) for both academic researchers and industrial groups
At a micrometric scale, the behavior of fluids changes and presents several advantages: **rapid heat transfer, an increased surface-to-volume ratio, laminar flow, and possible diffusive mixing**. In addition, microfluidics considerably **decreases sample and reagent consumption**, **shortens experiment times**, and **reduces the overall costs of applications**.
The overall result is a significant increase in efficiency, driving a substantial reduction in both resource usage and overall application costs.
### Microfluidics for Miniaturized Laboratories
A key concept related to microfluidics is the ability to **integrate operations that would typically require a whole laboratory into a simple micro-sized system**. Currently, a **traditional scale-up is substituted in microfluidic systems** by multiplexing, drawing on the compact size of the device to dramatically shorten the time from formulation to production. This leads to the **adoption of microfluidic technologies** not only for analytical purposes but also **for large-scale manufacturing in process industries**, particularly nanomedicine, fine chemistry, and the food, environmental, and pharmaceutical industries. \[1\]
Through the dynamic field of microfluidics, a new era of possibilities unfolds.
- **Experimental accuracy:** Microfluidics empowers researchers to refine and elevate the precision of scientific challenges, pushing the boundaries of detection to new lows and unraveling insights at the molecular level that were once unimaginable.
- **High efficiency**: Microfluidics allows for parallelized analyses, unlocking the ability to run multiple experiments simultaneously to achieve remarkable results with unparalleled efficiency.
- **Cost reduction**: Microfluidics offers a gateway to cost reduction without compromising the quality of the work.
- **Time reduction**: Often the most precious commodity in research, time becomes a valuable ally with microfluidics and its potential to accelerate the pace of discovery by significantly shortening experimental timelines.
- **Precision meets practicality**: Microfluidics is reshaping the landscape of research and industry where efficiency becomes the hallmark of progress. It has limitless possibilities and applications in various fields.
### Precise control and automation
**Microfluidic systems also offer excellent data quality and improved parameter control,** allowing for process automation while maintaining high performance. They have the ability to both process and analyze samples with only minor sample handling. **The microfluidic chip is combined with a fluid handling system** to achieve incorporated automation that **allows users to generate multi-step reactions requiring a low level of expertise** and a wide range of functionalities.
Advantages of microfluidics 2
## Origins of microfluidics, a fluid handling system for printers
*History and progress of microfluidics*
The history of microfluidics dates to the **1950s**, principally in **inkjet printer manufacturing.** The mechanism behind these printers is based on microfluidics, and involves the use of very small tubes carrying the ink for printing.
In the **1970s**, a miniaturized gas chromatograph was constructed on a silicon wafer. By the end of the **1980s**, the first microvalves and micropumps based on silicon micro-machining had also been presented. In the following years, several silicon-based analysis systems were presented.
All of these examples represent microfluidic systems, since they **enable the precise control of decreasing fluid volumes** on one hand, and involve **miniaturization of fluid handling systems** on the other.
**A major contribution** in this field has been **the development of** **soft lithography** in a fast prototyping polymer, [**polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/), as a method for fabricating prototype devices and testing new ideas.
### The expansion of microfluidics and development of microfluidic components
In the **1990s**, advancements in [microfabrication technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/) expanded the possibilities of microfluidic systems. Researchers began designing **lab-on-a-chip devices** for applications ranging from chemical analysis to medical diagnostics. This era saw the emergence of the first microfluidic devices with integrated sensors and valves.
As the **21st century** unfolded, microfluidics experienced a surge in popularity. The technology found applications in genomics, proteomics, [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/drug-discovery/), and point-of-care diagnostics. Researchers explored the potential of [organ-on-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) models, **replicating human physiological conditions** for more accurate testing.
Today, microfluidics continues to push boundaries, with ongoing research focusing on **enhancing precision, scalability, and integration** with other scientific disciplines.
Over the years, researchers spent a lot of time developing new microfluidic components for fluid transport, fluid metering, fluid mixing, valving, or concentration and separation of molecules within miniaturized quantities of fluids.
In 2006, for example, **Fluigent was the first company to introduce a disruptive new way of handling fluids** in microfluidics: [**microfluidic pressure pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/)**.**
The use of a [pressure-based pump instead of a syringe pump ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/ "pressure-based pump instead of a syringe pump ")allows for **very rapid response times and pulseless flow**. At first, these pumps could only control the pressure of liquids in microfluidic chips, but later, by adding a flow sensor and a unique feedback control loop**, Fluigent enabled control of both pressure and flow rate**. The precise control of fluids in a microfluidic device allows for sophisticated new applications which were not possible before.
Recently, an increasing number of microfluidic-based devices, developed by both small start-ups and large pharmaceutical and biomedical companies, have been released and are entering the market.
## Comparative example: Why choose a microfluidic device instead of a robot?
Due to the low volumes required, **microfluidic technologies represent a promising alternative to conventional laboratory techniques**. They allow for complete laboratory protocols on a single chip of a few square centimeters. Table 1 shows **the main advantages of using microfluidics instead of conventional laboratory assays** for a given experiment (ultra-high throughput screening of a typical enzyme).
Robot Microfluidic droplets Total reactions 5 × 107 5 × 107 Reaction volume 100 µL 6 pL Total volume 5,000 L 150 µL Reactions/day 73,000 1 × 108 Total time 2 years 7 hours Number of plates/device260,000 2Cost of plates/device$ 520,000 $1.00 Cost of tips $10 millions $0.30 Amortized cost of instruments $ 280,000 $1.70 Substrate $4.75 million$0.25 Total cost $15.81 million $2.50 Table: **Comparison using traditional methods and in microfluidic emulsions. Adapted with permission from Agresti J. J. et al, Ultrahigh-throughput screening in drop-based microfluidics for directed evolution, PNAS 2010, 107:4004-4009. Copyright 2010 National Academy of Sciences, U.S.A \[3\]**
Microscope image of a high throughput screening experiment with microfluidics
To better appreciate the impact of microfluidics, **we can draw an analogy with the evolution of computers**. In the 1960s, an entire room was needed to run a computer. Since then, every component has been reduced in size, and laptop products have appeared. Now a simple smartphone is more powerful than any computer built before, leading to reduced prices and a much more user-friendly experience. It’s the same with microfluidics!
## Overview of microfluidics applications
**Microfluidics is an attractive technology for multiple fields.**
*Microfluidics extends its capabilities in precise liquid injection to the fields of* ***cell perfusion applications*** *and* ***droplet generation****, breaking free from the confines of traditional “lab on a chip” and “organ on a chip” technologies.*
*Microfluidics, renowned for its* ***intricate control over small fluid volumes****, overcomes conventional boundaries and finds applications across a range of fields.*
- *In* ***cosmetics****, microfluidics takes center stage, enabling precise crafting of emulsions and formulations and revolutionizing product development through increased efficiency and accuracy.*
- *In* ***pharmaceuticals****, especially in drug discovery, microfluidics accelerates experimentation, providing a sophisticated and resource-efficient approach.*
- *The* ***healthcare sector*** *benefits significantly from microfluidics, where the technology contributes to personalized medicine and diagnosis. Its precision in manipulating small fluid quantities opens the door to novel diagnostic approaches and tailored medical interventions.*
- *In* ***chemistry****, microfluidics has emerged as a tool for flow synthesis and stoichiometry, optimizing chemical processes.*
- *Biologists leverage* [*microfluidics for* ***cell culture***](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) ***and 3D printing****, creating environments that closely mimic physiological conditions.*
- [***Droplet generation*** *applications*](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/) *further extend its versatility, with microfluidics emerging as a pivotal tool for creating and manipulating droplets with high precision.*
- *In* ***energy applications****, microfluidics plays a crucial role in Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) models and plasma confinement studies, showcasing its adaptability across different scientific disciplines.*
- *In* [*industrial applications*](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)*, microfluidics provides a platform for enhanced efficiency, precision, and cost-effectiveness.*
### Draw on microfluidic technology for your [industrial application](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/ "industrial application ")
- **High-Throughput Screening:** Microfluidic devices excel in conducting rapid and parallelized experiments, making them ideal for high-throughput screening in industries like pharmaceuticals and biotechnology. This enables quick testing of multiple conditions, reducing time and resource requirements.
- **Process Miniaturization:** Microfluidic systems allow for miniaturization of processes, leading to reduced sample and reagent consumption. This not only cuts costs, but also facilitates handling of scarce or expensive materials.
- **Point-of-Care Diagnostics:** Microfluidics plays a crucial role in developing portable and rapid diagnostic tools for on-site testing. These devices can be utilized in industrial settings for real-time monitoring, ensuring quality control and minimizing downtime.
- **Customized Manufacturing:** Microfluidics allows for the creation of tailored microenvironments to facilitate customized manufacturing processes. This is particularly beneficial in applications where specific conditions are required for optimal product development.
Custom box: Engineering solutions
- **Automation and Integration:** [Microfluidic components](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/) can be easily integrated into automated systems, streamlining processes and reducing the need for manual intervention. This enhances overall workflow efficiency in industrial applications.
By leveraging the capabilities of microfluidics in these ways, **industries can enhance their processes, reduce costs, and improve overall productivity**.
- [
### Microfluidic OEM
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
- [
### From idea to production
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
**The development of microfluidics has just begun!**
## Conclusion
**Microfluidics offers revolutionary new capabilities.** It is still quite a new technology, and there is a lot of work to be done so that it can solve problems for users who are not experts in fluid physics, such as clinicians, cell biologists, and public health officials.
Microfluidic applications and products are already present in the marketplace, especially in nanomedicine, allowing for more precise analysis of molecules like DNA and proteins, bacteria, or analysis at the scale of a single cell. **The continuing development of high-throughput screening and organ-on-chip technology will lead to faster and better drug development.** With the development of lab-on-a-chip and microTAS and the possibility of combining microfluidics with automation, new diagnostic products will be cheaper and faster, bringing benefits to developing countries.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Automation in Microfluidics: Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback Loops Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/automation-in-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging. Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
**References:**
1. Fluigent, White paper: An exploration of microfluidics and fluid handling, 2020,
2. Bahnemann, J.; Grünberge, A. Microfluidics in Biotechnology: Overview and Status Quo. Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology book series, 2022, ABE,volume 179.
3. Agresti, J. J.; Antipov, E.; Abate, A. R.; Ahn, K.; Rowat, A. C.; Baret, J.-C.; Marquez, M.; Klibanov, A. M.; Griffiths, A. D.; Weitz, D. A. Ultrahigh-Throughput Screening in Drop-Based Microfluidics for Directed Evolution. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 2010, 107 (9), 4004–4009.
**Catégories de ressource:** General Overview of Microfluidics
---
### [Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to Chitosan Microcapsules
### Why is droplet microfluidics preferred for microcapsule production?
In recent decades, core-shell microcapsules have become integral in the [**pharmaceutical**](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/), [**cosmetic**](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/cosmetics/), and [**food industries**](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/) **for material delivery and release**. Microencapsulation technologies play a crucial role in **safeguarding enclosed materials** and **ensuring prolonged efficacy** by controlling the release rate.
Traditional bulk microencapsulation methods, relying on intense mixing of immiscible solutions, often involve intricate processes and equipment. These methods face limitations in controlling microcapsule sizes and achieving monodispersity. In contrast, microfluidics offers a superior approach, allowing for the production of [**monodisperse double emulsions**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/) with precise control over both size and structure.
### Why is chitosan an interesting encapsulating agent?
Chitosan is a polysaccharide derived from chitine and most commonly obtained from the exoskeleton of crustaceans and from fungi. It has always been considered as a **promising encapsulating agent for all kinds of applications** due to its **biocompatibility**, **lack of toxicity**, **antibacterial activity**, **high availability**, and **low cost**. It is nature’s most important organic compound after cellulose. Also, chitosan has unique chemical properties due to its cationic charge in solution.
Chitosan microcapsules have been widely used as an encapsulating agent for several applications, such as [food processing](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/), biomedical and pharmaceutical, [wastewater treatments](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/water-treatment/), and textiles, alone or in combination with other polysaccharides or proteins to improve the shell properties. The application of chitosan microcapsules in textiles follows the current interest of industries in functionalization technologies that **give different properties to products**, such as aroma finish, insect repellent, antimicrobial activity, and thermal comfort.
[See other applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/)
## How to generate chistosan-shelled double emulsions
### Double emulsion platform
We performed chitosan microcapsule generation with the [**Complex Emulsions Production Platform**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/), a lab system integrating all the components needed to produce simple and double emulsions.
*Figure 2 Commplex Emulsions Production Platform*
*Figure 3 Experimental set up to produce double emulsion*
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Platform for emulsions & droplets
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
## Material for chitosan bead generation
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
### Reagents
**Core phase:**
**Soybean oil (8001-22-7***,* Sigma-Aldrich) containing red dye Sudan IV (Sigma-Aldrich)
**Shell phase:**
Water containing 2% chitosan (viscosity 30-100 mPa·s, Glentham Life Sciences UK), 2% acetic acid (Sigma-Aldrich), 1% Pluronic® F-127 (Sigma-Aldrich)
**Continuous phase:**
1-octanol (Glentham Life Sciences UK) containing 2% Span 80 (Sigma-Aldrich)
**Collection phase:**
Heptane (VWR) containing 2% Span 80 (Sigma-Aldrich) and 0,3 wt% glutaraldehyde (50% in H2O, Glentham Life Sciences UK)
The [**pressure controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) used are 7 bar full scale. The maximum pressure used for the [generation of double emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/) with large shells is 2440 mbar (corresponding to a shell phase flow rate of 24.3 µL/min). Though in this scenario, maximum working pressure is 1650 mbar. Priming and cleaning steps can require a pressure higher than 2 bar.
## Synthesis of chitosan-shelled double emulsions
Monodisperse chitosan microcapsules synthesis is performed in 2 main steps:
- Generation of monodisperse double emulsion in the [Raydrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- Capsule formation by reticulation of the chitosan shell in the collection bath
### 1. Double Emulsion Generation
To generate droplets, the system must first be primed with pure solvent in the shell phase (here water + 2% acetic acid). Once droplet formation is stable, the shell phase is switched to the chitosan-based solution. This avoids clogging issues during the transient phase.
*Figure 4 Generation of double emulsion droplets in the Raydrop Red dye Sudan IV is added in the core phase to increase the contrast*
*Figure 5 chitosan shelloil core double emulsion collected in the 1 octanol continuous phase*
### 2. Chitosan Microcapsules Formation
After generation, the droplets are collected in a cross-linking solution of 0.3% glutaraldehyde in hexane. The chitosan reacts with glutaraldehyde by solvent extraction and chemical cross-linking based on the Schiff base reaction. The droplets are solidified and become glutaraldehyde cross-linked chitosan microcapsules.
**Figure 6: Glutaraldehyde cross-linked chitosan microcapsules on the cross-linking bath. On the left, after 4 minutes in the cross-linking bath. On the right, after 1h in the cross-linking bath. The shell thickness decreases and becomes progressively yellow, as a part of its water content diffuses in the continuous phase. Expelled water is clearly visible wetting the capsules.**
## Results: production of stable, monodisperse microcapsules
In this [application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/application-note-chitosan-2.pdf), different parameters were studied. First, the evolution of the droplets over time was observed. Then, the influence of the middle and the outer phase flow rates were studied.
### Evolution of the Droplet Diameter During the Cross-Linking Process
After generation, the double emulsion droplets are collected into the collection solution. For a given sample, several measurements of the capsule diameter are done at different times. The evolution of the diameter is highlighted in Figure 7.
*Figure 7 Size of chitosan microcapsules as a function of time*
### Influence of the Middle Phase Flow Rate
After analyzing the size of the chitosan microcapsules over time, the influence of the middle phase flow rate is observed. We varied the shell flow rate at fixed continuous and core phase flow rates. The evolution of these two diameters is underlined in Figure 8. Figure 9 shows the evolution of the thickness of the droplet with the evolution of the shell flow rate.
*Figure 8 Core size and shell size as a function of the shell liquid flow rate*
*Figure 9 Thickness of the shell as a function of the shell liquid flow rate*
### Influence of the Outer Phase Flow Rate
Here, the shell flow rate and core flow rate are fixed but the continuous phase flow rate is varying. The change in diameter as a function of flow rate is shown in Figure 10.
*Figure 10 Core size and shell size as a function of the continuous liquid flow rate*
## Conclusion
The production of stable, monodispersed microcapsules with a solid chitosan shell and a liquid oil, non-polar core using a microfluidic system has been successfully achieved. The Fluigent microfluidic platform also allows one to tune the core diameter and the shell thickness by adjusting the flow rates of the different fluids. Due to excellent oil encapsulation properties and a very limited leakage over time, these microcapsules can be used in a wide range of applications, including the encapsulation of volatile products like mint oil \[3\] as well as specific drugs, which will be delivered according to the pH acidity \[2\].
## References
\[1\] KILDEEVA, N. R., PERMINOV, P. A., VLADIMIROV, L. V., NOVIKOV, V. V. and MIKHAILOV, S. N., 2009. About mechanism of chitosan cross-linking with glutaraldehyde. Russian Journal of Bioorganic Chemistry. 1 May 2009. Vol. 35, no. 3, p. 360–369. DOI 10.1134/S106816200903011X.
\[2\] LIU, Li, YANG, Jian-Ping, JU, Xiao-Jie, XIE, Rui, LIU, Ying-Mei, WANG, Wei, ZHANG, Jin-Jin, NIU, Catherine Hui and CHU, Liang-Yin, 2011. Monodisperse core-shell chitosan microcapsules for pH-responsive burst release of hydrophobic drugs. Soft Matter. 3 May 2011. Vol. 7, no. 10, p. 4821–4827. DOI 10.1039/C0SM01393E.
\[3\] DU, Yuhan, MO, Liangji, WANG, Xiaoda, WANG, Hongxing, GE, Xue-hui and QIU, Ting, 2020. Preparation of mint oil microcapsules by microfluidics with high efficiency and controllability in release properties. Microfluidics and Nanofluidics. June 2020. Vol. 24, no. 6, p. 42. DOI 10.1007/s10404-020-02346-2.
## Related Resources
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
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**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
**Published:** December 14, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Microfluidic droplet generation for encapsulation of cells
[Microfluidic droplet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) **generation** is a powerful technique for encapsulation of cells or biological molecules within precisely controlled nL- to pL-volumes. Microfluidic droplets have been used for a wide variety of applications, including directed evolution of enzymes and proteins, digital PCR, large-scale gene assembly, cell culture, and, recently, single-cell genomic, epigenomic, and transcriptomic analyses (1,2).
## Advantages and challenges of the method
The need for **cell encapsulation methods** and **sorting devices** that are safer, more effective, and simpler to use than current technologies has grown due to the exponential growth of novel techniques of cell analysis.
To perform it, [double emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/) are ideally generated because, unlike single emulsions, they provide aqueous compartments as well as an aqueous carrier fluid, which makes the emulsion compatible with most flow cytometry and cell sorting systems.
For successful sorting, [DE droplets must be significantly smaller](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/) (< 60 µm in diameter) than commercial cell sorters nozzles (typically 70–130 μm in diameter) while simultaneously large enough to encapsulate variants of interest within the inner core volume (4). Therefore, the possibility of developing a cellular encapsulation method in double emulsions small enough to be compatible with commercial cell sorters would be a major breakthrough in the field of biomedical research.
Typically, double emulsions are produced in batches by a two-step emulsification process, resulting in a highly polydisperse population with low encapsulation efficiency. Therefore, droplet generation using microfluidics is an alternative, as it offers maximum control over droplet generation (5).
### A platform for high-throughput screening
With the [**Cell Encapsulation Platform**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/), developed and manufactured by Secoya Technologies, we demonstrate an easy-to-use and robust cellular encapsulation method for encapsulating large, complex cells within highly monodisperse DE droplets small enough (∼ 25µm to 60µm) for high-throughput cell screening/sorting. We demonstrate the capabilities of this method by encapsulating Human Adult Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMC) in highly monodisperse double emulsions of 50µm in size.
## How to produce Small Double Emulsions?
### Materials
While the shell phase is composed of [dSurf](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) (HFE7500 + 2% biocompatible surfactant), the core phase consists of water with 0.5% Fluorescein.
Finally, the continuous phase is composed of water with 2% Tween20.
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
### Methods for production of monodispersed double emulsions
- First, the phases are filtered (pore size 0.2 µm). Then, a simple emulsion of the shell phase is produced by closing the core phase and adjusting the flow rates of the continuous phase and the shell phase.
- Once the single emulsion is produced, the double emulsion process is performed by turning the core phase valve in the reservoir position towards the [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) (developed by Secoya Technologies) and adjusting the flow rates.
- Once an optimal and stable flow rate is reached, the production of the double emulsion is started.
- After a few seconds, we can collect our droplets in their corresponding Falcon tubes for further analysis.
Visit [**our protocol** for encapsulation of cells](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/12/cell-encapsulation-small-double-emulsion.pdf "our protocol for encapsulation of cells"), where we detail, step by step, how to perfom double emulsion generation using **the cell encapsulation Platform**.
### Results: Droplet Generation
The size of the double emulsion produced depends on the Raydrop configuration and the flowrates of the different phases. However, for a specific Raydrop configuration, the continuous phase flowrate has the most impact on the double emulsion size.
Figure 1 presents the evolution of double emulsion outer diameter produced for the three Raydrop configurations with respect to the continuous phase flowrate.
Table 1 ([in the application note, page 8](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/12/cell-encapsulation-small-double-emulsion.pdf "in the application note, page 8")) summarizes the flow rates of each phase, the outer diameters of the double emulsion and the respective coefficient of variation
*Figure 1 Influence of continuous phase flow on the diameter of double emulsions*
## Cellular encapsulation technique with Small Double Emulsions
#### Materials
While the **shell phase** is composed of [dSurf](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) (HFE7500 + 2% biocompatible surfactant), the **core phase** consists of water with 0.5% Fluorescein.
Finally, the **continuous phase** is composed of water with 2% Tween20.
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
#### Methods
- First, the shell and core phases (pore size 0.2 µm) and the cell solution (cell strainer pore size 40 µm) are filtered and the corresponding reservoir is filled.
- Then, a simple emulsion of the shell phase is produced by adjusting the flow rates of the continuous phase and the shell phase.
- Once the single emulsion is produced, the cell encapsulation process is performed by turning the core phase valve in the reservoir position towards the [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) and adjusting the flow rate.
- After a few seconds, we can collect our encapsulated cells in their corresponding Falcon tubes for further analysis.
## Results: efficient encapsulation of cells
Once the encapsulation process is completed, the generated double emulsions are visualized under a microscope to check their monodispersity and stability.
We used fluorescent labeling to demonstrate the chemical functionality and uniform incorporation of human PBMC cells into these double emulsions.
For this purpose, we used the Cy5 dye, the TRITC dye and the fluorescein fluorophore (FITC) to stain the entire medium in which the cells were found.
Cy5 channel
FITC channel
TRITC channel
**Figure 2. Staining of droplets and their respective media with different fluorophores.**
On the other hand, CellTrace™ Violet Cell is used to both visualize the successful incorporation of cells into the droplets, and to verify the functionality of these droplets. CellTrace™ Violet Cell is used for in vitro and in vivo labeling of cells to trace multiple generations using dye dilution by flow cytometry.
As seen in the figure 3, the droplets have uniform sizes and fluorescence intensity. The fluorescence among droplets within each fluorophore appears uniform for each condition.
*Figure 3 Double Emulsions with Human PBMCs CellTrace Violet Cells encapsulated blue fluorescence
Courtesy of Functional Immune Repertoire Analysis at ETH Zürich*
## Conclusion
In this application note, we have demonstrated that the [**Raydrop**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) is able to produce **monodisperse double emulsion** with an **outer diameter below 60 µm**. We also demonstrate that **the Cell Encapsulation Platform** can encapsulate cells in **w/o/w double emulsion with a precise control of droplet size**.
Human PBMCs were encapsulated in **water-oil-water monodisperse double emulsion of 52** µm using a 60-120-60 Raydrop configuration. Other RayDrop configurations, with different nozzle dimensions, are available to target different ranges of droplet sizes, and therefore **different ranges of cell sizes**. This is due to the **versatility and flexibility of the RayDrop**, which enables us to easily change configuration and change capillary size.
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
## References
1. Brower, K.K. et al. (2020) “Double emulsion picoreactors for high-throughput single-cell encapsulation and phenotyping via FACS,” Analytical Chemistry, 92(19), pp. 13262–13270. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.analchem.0c02499.
2. Wang, W., Zhang, M.-J. and Chu, L.-Y. (2014) “Microfluidic approach for encapsulation via double emulsions,” Current Opinion in Pharmacology, 18, pp. 35–41. Available at: https://doi. org/10.1016/j.coph.2014.08.003.
3. Yan, J. et al. (2013) “Monodisperse water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) double emulsion droplets as uniform compartments for high-throughput analysis via flow cytometry,” Micromachines, 4(4), pp. 402–413. Available at: https://doi.org/10.3390/mi4040402.
4. Lim, S.W. and Abate, A.R. (2013) “Ultrahigh-throughput sorting of microfluidic drops with flow cytometry,” Lab on a Chip, 13(23), p. 4563. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1039/c3lc50736j.
5. Brower, K.K. et al. (2020) “Double emulsion flow cytometry with high-throughput single droplet isolation and nucleic acid recovery,” Lab on a Chip, 20(12), pp. 2062–2074. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1039/d0lc00261e
## Expertises & Resources
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Article Reviews A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes What is the best method for Microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast in Small Double Emulsions? Read more
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Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
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**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microfluidic Spheroid Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads Using a Sacrificial Oil-Shell Method ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mammalian-spheroid-encapsulation/)
**Published:** March 17, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## A Paper for Université de Bordeaux, Université Libre de Bruxelles & Secoya Technologies
This study is a collaboration between [Université de Bordeaux](https://physique.u-bordeaux.fr/recherche-1/lp2n), [CNRS](https://www.crpp.cnrs.fr/), [Université Libre de Bruxelles](https://tips-ulb.be/), and [Secoya Technologies](https://www.secoya-tech.com/), a spin-off developing lab-scale equipment for (bio)-pharmaceutical processes. Their RayDrop® microfluidic droplet generator integrates Secoya’s emulsification technology into an easy-to-use platform, enabling reproducible spheroid encapsulation and droplet generation for academic and R&D labs.
## Webinar: Spheroid Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads Using Microfluidics
Learn how **microfluidics can enable monodispersed alginate microbeads,** high cell viability, and controlled spheroid growth in 3D environments.
Replay available!
[Access the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-spheroid/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-spheroid/)
## What Challenges Limit Long-Term 3D Cell Culture?
Spheroid encapsulation is a key technique for generating reproducible [3D cell culture models](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/ "3D cell culture models"), including organoids for regenerative medicine and multicellular spheroids (MCS) for oncology. Compared to traditional 2D culture, these models better reproduce tissue physiology, but their production has often relied on labor-intensive protocols, limiting scalability for high-throughput applications. [Droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) enables **precise microfluidic encapsulation of cells** within **hydrogel droplets**, supporting self-assembly into spheroids while maintaining controlled microenvironments.1–4
Hydrogel scaffolds, such as alginate, provide both mechanical support and biochemical cues essential for long-term MCS culture. [Conventional methods](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microgel-crosslinking-materials-methods/) for[ generating alginate microbeads](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/ " generating alginate microbeads") often produce heterogeneous sizes and may compromise cell viability (Figure 1). Advanced strategies using double emulsions in microfluidic systems improve bead uniformity, yet controlling gentle gelation without affecting cells remains challenging.5
**Monodisperse hydrogel microbeads** with uniform size and structure are critical for **high-quality spheroid encapsulation**, enabling consistent nutrient diffusion and optimal cell growth. Integrating controlled microfluidic techniques with biocompatible hydrogels addresses the main limitations of conventional MCS production methods (Table 1).6,7
Figure 1: Illustration of current strategies to produce 3D spheroids (Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology **2024**, 100, 106033).
*Table *1*: Comparison of some current strategies for cell encapsulation in alginate beads (* ***Lab Chip****, 2026,****26****, 711-724).*
Reference**Emulsion Type** **Gelation Mechanism** **Bead Diameter \[μm\]** **Cell Viability****MCS Formation****Special Remarks** Lian *et al.* 8 Simple CaCl₂ in oleic acid 40–55 NANACell viability not discussed. Encapsulation of bacteria, not mammalian cells. Involves oil removal steps. Kim 9 Simple CaCl₂ in oleic acid 100 >85% YesClogging issues. Involves oil removal steps. Trivedi *et al.* 10 Simple Droplet merging 1500 80% and 60% after 4 h and 9 h NoViability decreases with time after encapsulation. Large bead diameters. Involves oil removal steps. Akbari & Pirbodaghi 11 Simple De-chelation CaCO₃ (acidification) 26 85% YesCell viability varies with time (74% after 2 days, 84% after 6 days). Involves fluorinated oil removal steps. Liao *et al.* 12 Double Ca²⁺ diffusion through an oil shell 190–260 78.1% NoPoor shape control. Doubtful mechanism of crosslinking. Viability measured only 2 h after encapsulation. Beads directly recovered in aqueous medium. Kieda *et al.* 13 Double CaCl₂ in continuous phase 209 48% after encapsulation; 95% after 2 daysYesAll-aqueous microfluidics. Shell phase acts as shield to prevent device clogging. Large polydispersity (CV 13%), excellent bead sphericity, monodispersed. ## Aim of the Study: Sacrificial Oil-Shell Method for Spheroid Encapsulation
The aim of this work is to **develop a robust and biocompatible approach for spheroid encapsulation suitable for mammalian cells in 3D cell culture systems.**
A droplet microfluidics strategy, based on a sacrificial oil-shell, was optimized was optimized to generate homogeneous alginate microbeads through controlled calcium diffusion across a thin oil shell, enabling gentle and uniform hydrogel crosslinking (Figure 2).
This approach allows efficient microfluidic encapsulation while preserving cell viability and supporting the formation of multicellular spheroids. Notably, this work demonstrates for the first time the use of [a non-embedded capillary geometry](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) to produce **monodisperse and structurally homogeneous alginate microbeads** compatible with long-term spheroid culture.
Figure 2 Sacrificial oil shell method for the generation of alginate microbeads adapted to multicellular spheroid culture **Lab Chip** 2026**26** 711 724
## Materials and Methods: How to Set Up a Microfluidic Platform for Spheroid Encapsulation
Mammalian HEK293T cells were used for 3D cell culture experiments. Cells were prepared in a sterile alginate solution to enable their encapsulation within hydrogel microbeads.
Encapsulation was performed using [the RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) (developed and manufactured by Secoya Technologies), a **capillary-based droplet microfluidics device** with a non-embedded co-focusing geometry. The system features three inlets for the core (cell-alginate solution), shell (oleic acid), and continuous phase (aqueous solution with surfactant) and a single outlet for microbead collection (Figure 3).
Precise flow control of all phases was achieved using the [Flow EZ pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/), allowing stable, pressure-driven injection and reproducible droplet formation. In-line filters were placed on all phases to remove particulates and prevent device clogging. A sample injector with a loop was used for the cell-containing core to prevent sedimentation and ensure uniform loading (Figure 4).
Droplet generation was monitored using an optical camera, [and the microfluidic setup](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/) was configured to maintain coaxial flow through the nozzle into the extraction capillary, ensuring proper formation of double-emulsion droplets. All tubing and components in contact with cells were sterilized prior to use.
Figure 3 Schematic of the five step process for producing alginate microbeads using the RayDrop from double emulsion generation to Ca²⁺ mediated gelation oil shell detachment and bead recovery **Lab Chip** 2026**26** 711 724
Figure 4 The RayDrop encapsulation platform with an injection loop
## Material Used for Spheroid Encapsulation
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Proof of Concept: Chelate-Free Encapsulation of Mammalian Cells for Spheroid Formation
### A- Cell Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads
Mammalian HEK293T cells were encapsulated using the **chelate-free CaCl₂ approach** within alginate microbeads generated by droplet microfluidics. The process relies on calcium diffusion through a sacrificial oleic acid shell surrounding the alginate core (Figure 5).
[Double emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/) were produced with the RayDrop platform, using coaxial flow: the alginate-cell solution forms the core, oleic acid forms the shell, and a surfactant-containing aqueous phase acts as the continuous phase. Controlled flow rates (core: 25 μL/min; shell: 15 μL/min; continuous: 300 μL/min) generate monodisperse droplets with diameters ranging from 200 to 400 μm.
Calcium ions diffuse from the collection bath through the oleic acid shell, inducing slow and uniform alginate gelation. After gelation, the oil shell detaches spontaneously, and the microbeads are recovered via gentle centrifugation, yielding structurally homogeneous, spherical beads ready for culture.
Figure 5 Cell viability and spheroid formation HEK293T cells remain viable and form spheroids in monodisperse alginate microbeads Scale bars 100 μm **Lab Chip** 2026**26** 711 724
### B- Spheroid Formation and Growth
Encapsulated HEK293T cells aggregate and form multicellular spheroids within the elastic alginate microbeads. Spheroid growth follows an exponential trend, consistent with the expected cell division times (~12–20 h). Small spheroids remain largely spherical, while larger ones show slight deviations in circularity due to mechanical constraints from the hydrogel (Figure 6).
The elastic alginate network promotes the formation of a supracellular F-actin shell at the spheroid boundary and limits coalescence between adjacent spheroids. This approach ensures high cell viability, reproducible spheroid formation, and controlled growth dynamics suitable for long-term 3D culture studies.
Figure 6 Growth dynamics of HEK293T spheroids Confocal equatorial view showing multicellular spheroids with an F actin shell Left actin grayscale right DNA cyan and actin magenta Scale bar 20 μm **Lab Chip** 2026**26** 711 724
## Conclusion
This case study presents a practical and reproducible approach for encapsulating mammalian cells in monodisperse, homogeneous alginate microbeads using [the RayDrop platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/) combined with Flow EZ pressure controllers for precise flow regulation. Slow diffusion of Ca²⁺ through the oleic acid shell enables uniform gelation, while spontaneous oil detachment allows easy bead recovery.
This method **maintains high cell viability**, supports **long-term spheroid formation**, and can be easily implemented in standard biology labs without prior microfluidics expertise, offering a robust tool for studying tissue morphogenesis and 3D cell culture dynamics**.**
[Read the full paper:](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2026/lc/d5lc00913h/unauth) Rembotte, L.; Cappello, J.; Dewandre, A.; Mettler, M.; Septavaux, J.; Nassoy, P.; Scheid, B. Sacrificial Oil Shell Method for the Generation of Alginate Microbeads Adapted to Multicellular Spheroid Culture. *Lab on a Chip* **2026**.
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Role of Microfluidics in Advanced Organoid Modeling: from Static to Dynamic Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microgel Crosslinking: Materials, Methods, and Emerging Applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microgel-crosslinking-materials-methods/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## Webinar Replay of Interest
- [
### WEBINAR: Encapsulation of fluorescent bacteria in double emulsions for FACS sorting
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
- [
### WEBINAR: Single cell encapsulations compatible with FACS sorting, API encapsulations in biocompatible polymers, and more
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-cell-encapsulations/)
- [
### Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
- [
### Webinar | Advancing Microfluidics through Automation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-microfluidics-through-automation/)
## Related Solutions
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
[
### High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## References
(1) Rembotte, L.; Cappello, J.; Dewandre, A.; Mettler, M.; Septavaux, J.; Nassoy, P.; Scheid, B. Sacrificial Oil Shell Method for the Generation of Alginate Microbeads Adapted to Multicellular Spheroid Culture. *Lab on a Chip* **2026**.
(2) Lampart, F. L.; Iber, D.; Doumpas, N. Organoids in High-Throughput and High-Content Screenings. *Front. Chem. Eng.* **2023**, *5*. https://doi.org/10.3389/fceng.2023.1120348.
(3) Jensen, C.; Teng, Y. Is It Time to Start Transitioning From 2D to 3D Cell Culture? *Front. Mol. Biosci.* **2020**, *7*. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmolb.2020.00033.
(4) Fevre, R.; Mary, G.; Vertti-Quintero, N.; Durand, A.; Tomasi, R. F.-X.; Del Nery, E.; Baroud, C. N. Combinatorial Drug Screening on 3D Ewing Sarcoma Spheroids Using Droplet-Based Microfluidics. *Iscience* **2023**, *26* (5).
(5) Chae, S.; Hong, J.; Hwangbo, H.; Kim, G. The Utility of Biomedical Scaffolds Laden with Spheroids in Various Tissue Engineering Applications. *Theranostics* **2021**, *11* (14), 6818.
(6) Gadziński, P.; Froelich, A.; Jadach, B.; Wojtyłko, M.; Tatarek, A.; Białek, A.; Krysztofiak, J.; Gackowski, M.; Otto, F.; Osmałek, T. Ionotropic Gelation and Chemical Crosslinking as Methods for Fabrication of Modified-Release Gellan Gum-Based Drug Delivery Systems. *Pharmaceutics* **2022**, *15* (1), 108. https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics15010108.
(7) Arora, S.; Singh, S.; Mittal, A.; Desai, N.; Khatri, D. K.; Gugulothu, D.; Lather, V.; Pandita, D.; Vora, L. K. Spheroids in Cancer Research: Recent Advances and Opportunities. *Journal of Drug Delivery Science and Technology* **2024**, *100*, 106033. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jddst.2024.106033.
(8) Lian, M.; Collier, C. P.; Doktycz, M. J.; Retterer, S. T. Monodisperse Alginate Microgel Formation in a Three-Dimensional Microfluidic Droplet Generator. *Biomicrofluidics* **2012**, *6* (4).
(9) Kim, C. Droplet-Based Microfluidics for Making Uniform-Sized Cellular Spheroids in Alginate Beads with the Regulation of Encapsulated Cell Number. *BioChip J* **2015**, *9* (2), 105–113. https://doi.org/10.1007/s13206-015-9203-6.
(10) Trivedi, V.; Ereifej, E. S.; Doshi, A.; Sehgal, P.; VandeVord, P. J.; Basu, A. S. Microfluidic Encapsulation of Cells in Alginate Capsules for High Throughput Screening. In *2009 Annual International Conference of the IEEE Engineering in Medicine and Biology Society*; IEEE, 2009; pp 7037–7040.
(11) Akbari, S.; Pirbodaghi, T. Microfluidic Encapsulation of Cells in Alginate Particles via an Improved Internal Gelation Approach. *Microfluid Nanofluid* **2014**, *16* (4), 773–777. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10404-013-1264-z.
(12) Liao, Q.-Q.; Zhao, S.-K.; Cai, B.; He, R.-X.; Rao, L.; Wu, Y.; Guo, S.-S.; Liu, Q.-Y.; Liu, W.; Zhao, X.-Z. Biocompatible Fabrication of Cell-Laden Calcium Alginate Microbeads Using Microfluidic Double Flow-Focusing Device. *Sensors and Actuators A: Physical* **2018**, *279*, 313–320.
(13) Kieda, J.; Appak-Baskoy, S.; Jeyhani, M.; Navi, M.; Chan, K. W. Y.; Tsai, S. S. H. Microfluidically-Generated Encapsulated Spheroids (μ-GELS): An All-Aqueous Droplet Microfluidics Platform for Multicellular Spheroids Generation. *ACS Biomater. Sci. Eng.* **2023**, *9* (2), 1043–1052. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c00963.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Cancer-on-Chip: Modeling the Tumor Microenvironment with Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/cancer-on-chip-models/)
**Published:** April 15, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Role of Tumor Microenvironment in Cancer-on-a-Chip Models
The tumor microenvironment (TME) refers to the full range of cellular and non-cellular components that surround and interact with tumor cells. Rather than serving as a passive backdrop, it is a dynamic, complex, and highly heterogeneous environment that plays an active and critical role in cancer initiation, progression, treatment resistance, and metastasis (1)(2).
### Metastasis and Extravasation
During metastasis, tumor cells detach from the primary tumor, invade the extracellular matrix (ECM). Subsequently, they intravasate blood or lymphatic vessels, survive in circulation and subsequently extravasate to colonize specific metastatic niches in distant organs such as the bone, brain, or liver. These niches are shaped by both biochemical signals and biophysical constraints. (2)
*Figure *1* Metastasis Illustration with Circulating Tumor Cells *3**
Extravasation process is known to be driven not only by the tumour cellular composition but also by the microenvironment of the tissue. Tumor cells first adhere to the vascular endothelium through interactions involving selectins and integrins, followed by endothelial barrier disruption and transendothelial migration. These processes are strongly influenced by **TME-derived signals**, including chemokine gradients (e.g., CXCR4–CXCL12), inflammatory cytokines, and factors secreted by stromal and immune cells such as macrophages and fibroblasts. In addition, **biophysical features of the TME,** such as vascular permeability, shear stress, and ECM stiffness, is a critical parameter in facilitating or restricting tumor cell extravasation. Furthermore, the epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays a pivotal role in this cascade by enabling tumor cells to acquire enhanced migratory and invasive capabilities, loss of cell–cell adhesion, and increased resistance to apoptosis. The epithelial–mesenchymal transition is tightly regulated by TME-derived cues, including cytokines and interactions with stromal components, thereby promoting intravasation, survival in circulation, and ultimately extravasation at distant sites.
Microfluidic technologies, such as [**cancer-on-a-chip** platforms](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/), have made it possible to faithfully recapitulate this complexity in vitro, leading to major insights. These include the role of interstitial flow in autologous chemotaxis and the impact of ECM stiffness on tumor invasion (2). Such advances are paving the way for therapies that target not only tumor cells themselves, but the entire ecosystem in which they evolve.
## Organ-Specificity in Cancer-on-chip
The “seed and soil” hypothesis, first proposed by Stephen Paget, states that metastasis depends on the interaction between cancer cells (the “seeds”) and the specific microenvironment of target organs (the “soil”), meaning that tumor cells preferentially colonize organs whose biochemical and physical conditions are favorable to their growth. This **organ-specific behavior** cannot be properly captured by generic in vitro models, since each tissue provides a unique combination of cellular composition, vascularization, and mechanical cues. Consequently, it justifies the development of [microfluidic organ-on-chip systems](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/) that faithfully **reproduce specific target organ microenvironments**, allowing precise control of cell–cell interactions and physiological conditions. Such platforms enable more accurate modeling of metastatic processes and drug responses by mimicking the “soil” that governs cancer cell colonization. (3)
- ***Ovarian cancer:***
The complex interactions between ovarian tumors and the vascular system are modelled on the OvCa-Chip that recreates a three-dimensional interface between human ovarian cancer cells and a perfused endothelial lumen separated by a porous membrane. This platform enables the study of platelet extravasation under physiological shear stress and highlights the dynamic role of the endothelium in vascular disruption, cytokine signaling, and barrier dysfunction induced by tumor cells. It further provides a powerful alternative to murine models by allowing fine mechanistic dissection and therapeutic testing, as illustrated by the restoration of endothelial integrity and inhibition of platelet infiltration following atorvastatin treatment. (4)
*Figure 2 Organ on a chip model of ovarian cancer vessel platelet cross talk 4*
- ***Intestinal cancer***
To model intestinal cancer in a physiologically relevant manner, a [gut-on-a-chip platform](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/) has been design. This chip enables reproducible 3D epithelial morphogenesis by controlling basolateral signaling, particularly through the removal of morphogen antagonists, without requiring complex genetic engineering. By integrating microfluidic flow, [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/), and peristalsis-like [mechanical stimulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/), this system recreates key aspects of the crypt–villus architecture absent in conventional static cultures. As a result, it provides a powerful tool to investigate colorectal tumor development by capturing both spatial epithelial organization and dynamic microenvironmental cues. (5)
- ***Brest cancer-bone interface :***
To model the complex processes underlying breast cancer bone metastasis, a breast cancer-bone interface has been designed as a fully humanized, multi-compartment microfluidic platform integrating osteotropic breast cancer spheroids, sympathetic neurons, and primary human osteoclasts cultured on native mineralized bone slices. The incorporation of Quake valves enables precise and reversible control of inter-compartmental paracrine signaling, allowing fine dissection of directional cell-cell communication. This system reveals that indirect synergistic interactions between neurons and osteoclasts enhance tumor aggressiveness, underscoring the key role of neuro-bone crosstalk in metastatic progression. (6)
*Figure 3 Illustration of Metastasis on Chip Platform with Crosstalk Valves 6*
## Cancer-on-a-chip for Personalized Medicine
**[Cancer-on-a-chip platforms](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/ "Cancer-on-a-chip platforms")** enable personalized therapy testing by integrating patient-derived tumor biopsies with autologous immune cells, allowing real-time evaluation of treatments within a faithfully reconstructed tumor microenvironment. Moreover, multi-organ chip systems combining tissues like liver, intestine, bone marrow, and tumor have demonstrated the ability to quantitatively predict human pharmacokinetic parameters, consistent with clinical data, paving the way for individualized dosing strategies prior to clinical trials. In the long term, these technologies could evolve into fully personalized “living avatars” built from a patient’s own induced pluripotent stem cells, enabling optimized treatment selection and the design of targeted early-phase trials.
Additionally, cancer-on-a-chip models offer the potential to study drug responses across diverse patient subpopulations and comorbidities, overcoming many ethical and logistical limitations of traditional clinical studies.(7)
*Figure 4 Personalized Medicine application with Human on Chip 7*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Microfluidic Technologies in Cancer-on-a-Chip Systems
There are many **different types of organ-on-chip cancer models**, which vary both in their architecture and in the diversity of cellular components they incorporate to better reproduce the tumor microenvironment.
For instance, **epithelium-based lung cancer chips**, as developed by Hassell et al. (2017) model specific regions of the lung, such as the airway or alveolus, using human bronchial or alveolar epithelial cells combined with lung microvascular endothelial cells and non-small cell lung cancer cells. This approach highlights the critical role of the epithelial niche, as tumor growth rates differ depending on the local microenvironment. Moreover, the incorporation of cyclic mechanical strain mimicking breathing reveals that physical forces can significantly suppress tumor proliferation and invasion, while modulating key signaling pathways, thereby influencing therapeutic responses.(8)
A second type is represented by **vascularized tumor spheroid chips**, described by Paek et al. (2019), which integrate tumor cells, human endothelial cells, and fibroblasts within a fibrin-based extracellular matrix. These systems enable the self-assembly of perfusable microvascular networks that surround tumor spheroids, allowing drug delivery through the vasculature. This leads to more physiologically relevant responses, including spatially heterogeneous cytotoxic effects and the simultaneous evaluation of tumor and vascular toxicity, such as endothelial apoptosis and inflammatory activation.(9)
Finally, **pre-vascularized tumor-on-chip platforms**, such as the model developed by [Shirure](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=%22Shirure%20VS%22%5bAuthor%5d) et al. (2023), rely on the formation of a stable microvascular network prior to tumor cell or organoid introduction. These platforms use endothelial cells to form quiescent vessels and incorporate various tumor types, including breast and colorectal cancer cell lines as well as patient-derived organoids. This configuration allows the study of dynamic processes such as proliferation, angiogenesis, migration, and intravasation, while also enabling the evaluation of drug responses in a context compatible with precision medicine.(10)
### Biomechanics of the Tumor Microenvironment
Biomechanical stiffness is increasingly recognized as a meaningful biological marker in cancer-on-chip systems, revealing how physical properties of cells relate directly to their pathological state. Matrix stiffness plays an active role in tumor progression by inducing processes such as the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), which enhances invasiveness and metastatic potential through mechanotransduction pathways. \[12\]
Microfluidic platforms provide a powerful way to investigate these phenomena by applying controlled mechanical compressions on tumor models. In the journal Biofabrication 16 (2024) the chips is designed to allow for both compression on tumor spheroids while enabling high-resolution imaging. With use of finite element simulations, these systems allow precise spatial mapping of stiffness at the single-cell scale. Use cases of microfluidics and engineering offers a level of detail unattainable with traditional techniques. These mechanical differences are closely tied to the tissue’s structural organization, highlighting that tumor mechanics depend not only on intrinsic cellular properties but also on collective architecture. This insight paves the way for applying biomechanical analyses to patient-derived organoids, where tissue organization mirrors individual disease states and enables personalized mechanical profiling of tumors. (11)
*Figure 5 Chip Design for Biomechanical Stimulation 11*
### Biochemical Signaling in the Tumor Microenvironment
The microenvironment (TME) is a highly dynamic system composed of cellular and non-cellular components, including the extracellular matrix (ECM), soluble factors, and mechanical cues. The ECM not only provides structural support but also regulates cell behavior through biochemical and biophysical signaling. Its composition reflects a balance between production and degradation, which becomes disrupted in cancer, leading to matrix remodeling that promotes tumor progression, invasion, and therapeutic resistance. (12)
In the central nervous system, the ECM is inherently distinct from that of other tissues, being largely lacks fibrillar proteins and enriched in proteoglycans, glycoproteins, and glycosaminoglycans such as hyaluronic acid. During glioblastoma (brain tumor) progression, this specialized matrix is extensively remodeled into a more complex and fibrillar environment. This transformation generates a hybrid ECM phenotype that critically regulates tumor invasion and must be accurately recapitulated in vitro. (13)
Functionally, the ECM acts as an active signaling platform. Cell surface receptors such as integrins and receptor tyrosine kinases convert biochemical and mechanical cues from the ECM into intracellular signals that promote cell proliferation, survival, and migration. In addition, collagen contributes directly to signaling through receptors, thereby enhancing tumor invasion and resistance to therapy. In addition, the interstitial space contains soluble factors that regulate tumor behavior through concentration gradients. Cytokines promote immunosuppression and ECM remodeling, while chemokines help maintain tumor cells in specific niches. Non-fibrillar ECM components play critical regulatory roles by modulating cell migration and proliferation via receptors, and acting as structural barriers that spatially organize tumor invasion. Together, these biochemical and structural features highlight the necessity of precisely controlling ECM composition and signaling cues in advanced in vitro models of brain tumors. (13)
*In vitro* cancer-on-chip models use defined ECM proteins to recreate tumor biochemical signaling. Collagen I remains the primary scaffold due to its ability to form 3D hydrogels that support tumor growth and invasion, with matrix density and fiber organization directly influencing cell behavior. However, its limited mechanical range has led to hybrid systems incorporating components to better mimic vascularization and enhance invasiveness.
Non-fibrillar components further refine biochemical signaling. Glycoproteins regulate adhesion and migration through integrin interactions, while peptide motifs enable precise control in synthetic matrices. Proteoglycans are widely used to tune stiffness and activate mechanosensitive pathways, particularly in glioblastoma models, highlighting the role of ECM composition in directing cell phenotype. (13)
To better capture *in vivo* complexity, multi-component and decellularized matrices are increasingly used. These systems preserve tissue-specific biochemical cues or allow fine-tuned control over ligand density and degradability, enabling dynamic cell–ECM interactions. (14)
### Hypoxia and Oxygen Gradients in Tumor-on-Chip Models
Hypoxia is a hallmark of solid tumors and a key parameter to reproduce in tumor-on-chip models. In vivo, disorganized and leaky vasculature creates heterogeneous oxygen distributions, with hypoxic regions typically forming ~100 µm from blood vessels. Far from being a passive consequence of tumor growth, hypoxia actively drives malignancy through hypoxia-inducible factors, promoting angiogenesis, metabolic reprogramming, invasion, metastasis, and therapy resistance. Accordingly, tumor oxygen levels are significantly lower than in healthy tissues, emphasizing the need to replicate physiologically relevant conditions in vitro.
However, conventional culture systems fail to capture these features. Standard incubators maintain oxygen at ~141 mmHg, corresponding to hyperoxia rather than physiological levels, while hypoxic incubators equilibrate slowly, lack control over dissolved oxygen, and cannot generate spatial gradients. As a result, their relevance for modeling tumor microenvironments remains limited.(15)
To overcome these limitations, the **Oxalis** (OXygen ALImentation System) **platform** enables precise and dynamic control of dissolved oxygen in tumor-on-chip systems. It provides rapid equilibration with high accuracy, allowing faithful reproduction of clinically relevant oxygen levels. Importantly, Oxalis independently regulates oxygen, flow rate, CO₂ and pH, overcoming the intrinsic coupling between pressure and oxygen concentration in conventional microfluidics. Its biological relevance has been validated by the upregulation of hypoxia-responsive genes in cancer cells under controlled low-oxygen conditions. Achieving such precision requires the use of low oxygen-permeable materials, as common polymers such as PDMS allow significant oxygen diffusion. (16)
*Figure 6 Oxalis Dissolved Oxygen Controlled System 16*
Beyond oxygen alone, hypoxia is tightly linked to fluid dynamics and extracellular matrix (ECM) mechanics. In tumors, leaky vasculature generates both oxygen gradients and elevated interstitial fluid pressure, driving interstitial flow through the ECM. This flow contributes to fibroblast activation, tumor cell migration, and angiogenesis, while associated shear stress can promote epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and cancer stem cell phenotypes. These parameters are inherently interconnected, yet often coupled in microfluidic systems. By decoupling flow and oxygen control, platforms such as Oxalis enable stable perfusion at physiologically relevant shear stresses, while maintaining defined oxygen levels independently of cell density and proliferation.
From an ECM perspective, interstitial flow and pressure also regulate drug transport and immune cell infiltration, further highlighting the need for integrated control of physical and chemical cues. In this context, controlled perfusion plays a central role. Long-term unidirectional flow is essential for proper endothelial alignment and polarization, which are critical for modeling vascular function and permeability. Additionally, recirculation of conditioned medium enhances physiological relevance by preserving cell-secreted signaling factors, particularly important in hypoxic niches. Pressure-driven flow systems are especially well suited for these applications, as they provide stable low flow rates, minimize fluctuations, and maintain consistent oxygen conditions.
Overall, the integration of precise oxygen regulation with controlled fluid dynamics is essential for advancing tumor-on-chip models, enabling more accurate investigation of tumor biology, microenvironmental interactions, and therapeutic responses.
## Applications of Cancer-on-a-Chip Technology
### Drug Testing and Chemotherapy Response
One of the major unresolved challenges in oncology is identifying the most effective treatment for each individual patient. Conventional preclinical models, such as cell lines and patient-derived xenografts, provide valuable insights into general tumor biology but fail to capture the heterogeneity that ultimately determines therapeutic response at the patient level. Ex vivo tumor slice cultures have emerged as a promising alternative, as they preserve the native tumor microenvironment and allow direct drug testing. However, maintaining tissue viability beyond one week has remained a critical limitation. Traditional culture systems often generate harmful oxygen and nutrient gradients, introduce mechanical stress that disrupts tissue architecture, and fail to maintain stable physiological conditions over time. A key missing component has been a reliable, controlled perfusion system capable of supporting long-term culture under reproducible conditions.
To address these limitations, Erasmus MC and Bi/ond co-developed a Cancer-on-Chip platform based on silicon–PDMS microfluidic devices integrated into a 6-well plate format (COMPlate™). The system delivers culture medium simultaneously above and below the tumor slice, minimizing concentration gradients across the tissue thickness. Tumor slices are immobilized using a thermoreversible hydrogel that protects them from shear stress while remaining permeable to nutrients and gases. Continuous perfusion, a central feature of the platform, is ensured by Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack, which combines a pressure source (FLPG Plus), a multichannel flow controller (MFCS™-EZ), flow sensors (FLOW UNIT-S) for real-time monitoring of each well, and MAT software for automation and continuous data logging. The entire setup operates directly within a standard incubator, without requiring additional external infrastructure. (17)
The platform was validated using patient-derived xenografts models of breast cancer treated with cisplatin and prostate cancer treated with apalutamide. In both cases, the Cancer-on-Chip system successfully predicted therapeutic response, distinguishing sensitive from resistant tumors with greater accuracy than conventional ex vivo approaches. Continuous perfusion appears to improve drug delivery within the tissue compared to static culture conditions. In addition, the system maintains tissue viability, proliferation, and morphology for up to 14 days, which is twice as long as standard ex vivo cultures that typically begin to deteriorate within the first week. Transcriptomic analyses further show that the platform better preserves the gene expression profile of the original tumor, limiting stress-induced artifacts that could bias the interpretation of drug sensitivity.
The success of this approach relies strongly on the properties of the perfusion system. The pressure-driven technology provides a pulse-free flow, preventing cyclic mechanical stress that could damage fragile tumor slices over extended culture periods. Real-time monitoring of each channel enables immediate detection of any flow irregularities without interrupting the experiment. Moreover, the multichannel architecture allows multiple experimental conditions to be tested in parallel, which is essential for generating statistically robust data. The ease of use of the system also played a key role, allowing researchers without prior expertise in microfluidics to rapidly implement the platform and focus on biological questions rather than technical constraints.
[Read More on this Technology](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond)
*Figure 7 Microfluidic [Cancer-on-Chip Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond "Cancer-on-Chip Platform") To Predict Drug Response*
### Immunotherapy and Metastasis Models
The development of organ-on-chip technologies offers a powerful alternative to conventional experimental models for studying cancer metastasis and evaluating immunotherapeutic strategies. Traditional *in vivo* models, while physiologically relevant, are constrained by ethical considerations and limited capacity to dissect specific signaling pathways. Conversely, standard *in vitro* systems lack the complexity required to faithfully reproduce the metastatic bone microenvironment. In this context, microfluidic cancer-on-chip platforms provide a controlled yet physiologically relevant framework to bridge this gap. \[6\]
In the journal Material Today Bio 13 (2022) the platform relies on a multi-compartment microfluidic architecture fabricated in PDMS using 3D-printed molds, representing an accessible alternative to conventional photolithography. It consists of three physically separated but paracrinally connected compartments hosting distinct human cell types: bone-tropic breast cancer cells cultured as 3D spheroids, human sympathetic neurons, and primary human osteoclasts seeded on a mineralized bone matrix. Pneumatic Quake valves enable precise control over inter-compartment communication, allowing selective modulation of signal directionality and the dissection of intercellular crosstalk. (6)
Biologically, this tri-culture system reveals a synergistic interaction between sympathetic neurons and osteoclasts that significantly influences tumor cell behavior. This interaction leads to an increased secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, within the tumor compartment. These cytokines are well-established mediators of bone metastasis progression and osteoclastogenesis, and they represent key targets in immunotherapeutic approaches. Importantly, selective disruption of communication between neuronal and osteoclastic compartments demonstrates that this synergy is primarily mediated through the tumor cells themselves, highlighting their central role as integrators of microenvironmental signals. (6)
From a pre-clinical perspective, the fully humanized nature of this model enhances its translational relevance. It provides a promising platform for investigating the role of the sympathetic nervous system in breast cancer progression, a therapeutic axis that remains debated, particularly regarding the clinical efficacy of β-blockers. Furthermore, the system is well-suited for pharmacological screening, enabling the evaluation of targeted inhibitors and signaling pathway modulators in a dynamic and physiologically relevant context.
Looking forward, this platform opens new avenues for immunotherapy research. The integration of immune components such as macrophages and lymphocytes would allow for a more comprehensive modeling of anti-tumor immune responses. Similarly, incorporating endothelial cells could enable the study of extravasation processes, while the addition of osteoblasts would further refine the bone metastatic niche. Ultimately, such advances could facilitate the development of personalized medicine approaches through the incorporation of patient-derived tumor samples, making cancer-on-chip systems a cornerstone of next-generation pre-clinical oncology research.
### Circulating Tumor Cells Detection
Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) represent a critical biomarker for cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring. However, their clinical exploitation remains challenging due to their extreme rarity and biological heterogeneity. Typically, circulating tumour cells occur at concentrations as low as one cell per millilitre of blood, among millions of leukocytes and billions of erythrocytes. This scarcity, combined with their phenotypic diversity, makes their isolation, characterization, and detection particularly demanding. Microfluidic technologies have emerged as powerful tools to address these challenges, enabling precise manipulation of fluids and cells at the microscale. In this context, high-performance flow control systems, play a central role by ensuring the stability and reproducibility required for reliable biological analyses. Recent advances illustrate a progressive integration of microfluidics into three key stages: specific capture, clonal analysis via encapsulation, and label-free detection. \[19\]
At the first level, microfluidics enables the selective [capture and automated immunostaining of circulating tumour cells](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/). Immunoaffinity-based approaches commonly rely on epithelial markers to isolate tumour cells from complex biological samples. In this context, advanced microfluidic platforms integrate functionalized magnetic beads that self-organize into three-dimensional filtering structures within microfabricated chips. These architectures enhance capture efficiency while preserving cell integrity. A crucial aspect of this approach is the automation of the fluidic workflow, which involves multiple sequential steps.
Systems such as [Fluigent’s Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) enable the orchestration of complex injection sequences with high precision, ensuring consistent delivery of reagents throughout the protocol. Precise control of flow rates over a wide range is essential to minimize shear stress and ensure reproducibility, and pressure-based flow controllers provide the stability required for such delicate biological operations.
This highlights a fundamental principle in microfluidics: accurate and robust flow regulation is indispensable for maintaining biological viability and experimental consistency.
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[Download the Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
Building on this capability, microfluidics further enables the transition from cell capture to in-depth biological analysis through encapsulation and clonal sequencing. [Droplet-based microfluidic systems](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/) allow the generation of monodisperse hydrogel spheres that encapsulate individual cells, creating isolated microenvironments for clonal expansion. This approach, combined with [single-cell RNA sequencing techniques](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/), reveals tumour heterogeneity at an unprecedented resolution. In particular, it enables the identification of rare subpopulations, such as cancer stem-like cells, that are often masked in bulk analyses. The generation of such droplets requires extremely fine control of flow rates and pressure to ensure uniform size and high throughput production.
Fluigent’s Flow-EZ pressure controllers, coupled with flow sensors and dedicated software, provide the level of precision and responsiveness necessary to generate stable droplets at high frequency. This demonstrates how microfluidics not only isolates circulating tumour cells but also provides access to their functional and genetic diversity, shifting from a purely sorting role to a platform for systems-level biological insight.
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[Read more on Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
Finally, recent developments focus on **label-free detection strategies** that enhance the clinical translatability of microfluidic systems. Unlike traditional methods relying on molecular markers, these approaches exploit intrinsic physical properties of cells, such as optical phase shifts, to identify tumour cells. Interferometric imaging techniques integrated into microfluidic devices enable high-speed acquisition of quantitative phase images as cells flow through microchannels. In such systems, stable and ultra-low flow rates are critical to ensure image quality and compatibility with real-time data processing.
Pressure-based controllers such as [Fluigent’s LineUp Flow-EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) ensure **highly stable flow conditions**, which are essential for consistent imaging and accurate downstream classification. Machine learning algorithms can then classify cells based on their morphological and biophysical signatures. This paradigm eliminates the need for labeling, reduces sample preparation complexity, and opens the way to non-invasive diagnostic applications, for example using urine or blood samples. (18)
[Find the Most Reliable Flow Control Approach](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Conclusion: Advancing Cancer Modeling Through Microfluidic and Organ-on-Chip Systems
**Cancer-on-a-Chip technologies** are redefining how we study and treat cancer by faithfully reconstructing the **tumor microenvironment (TME)** through advanced microfluidics cancer models, enabling a shift from simplified systems to dynamic, patient-relevant ecosystems. By integrating organ-on-chip approaches and sophisticated tumor-on-chip platforms, researchers can now capture the complexity of metastasis, biochemical and biomechanical signaling, and organ-specific tumor behavior, ultimately accelerating the development of more predictive therapies and personalized medicine strategies.
- Reproduces the full complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME), including ECM, hypoxia, and cell–cell interactions
- Enables precise modeling of metastasis, extravasation, and organ-specific colonization
- Advances microfluidics cancer models for controlled, reproducible, and physiologically relevant experiments
- Leverages organ-on-chip systems to mimic tissue-specific environments and improve drug response prediction
- Supports personalized medicine through patient-derived tumor-on-chip and “tumor avatar” platforms
## Related Microfluidic Solutions
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
## Related content
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Organ-on-chip Platforms in Modern Drug Development and Testing Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Mimicking tumor microenvironment using a 3D microfluidic model to improve cancer investigations Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mimicking-tumor-microenvironment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Creating a Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform using Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## References
1\. Xu H, Wen J, Yang J, Zhou S, Li Y, Xu K, et al. Tumor-microenvironment-on-a-chip: the construction and application. Cell Commun Signal. 2024 Oct 23;22(1):515. doi:10.1186/s12964-024-01884-4
2\. Ahn J, Sei YJ, Jeon NL, Kim Y. Tumor Microenvironment on a Chip: The Progress and Future Perspective. Bioengineering. 2017 Jul 21;4(3). doi:10.3390/bioengineering4030064
3\. Conceição F, Sousa DM, Loessberg-Zahl J, Vollertsen AR, Neto E, Søe K, et al. A metastasis-on-a-chip approach to explore the sympathetic modulation of breast cancer bone metastasis. Materials Today Bio. 2022 Jan 1;13:100219. doi:10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100219
4\. Saha B, Mathur T, Handley KF, Hu W, Afshar-Kharghan V, Sood AK, et al. OvCa-Chip microsystem recreates vascular endothelium–mediated platelet extravasation in ovarian cancer. Blood Adv. 2020 Jul 27;4(14):3329–42. doi:10.1182/bloodadvances.2020001632
5\. Shin W, Kim HJ. 3D in vitro morphogenesis of human intestinal epithelium in a gut-on-a-chip or a hybrid chip with a cell culture insert. Nat Protoc. 2022 Mar;17(3):910–39. doi:10.1038/s41596-021-00674-3 PubMed PMID: 35110737; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC9675318.
6\. Conceição F, Sousa DM, Loessberg-Zahl J, Vollertsen AR, Neto E, Søe K, et al. A metastasis-on-a-chip approach to explore the sympathetic modulation of breast cancer bone metastasis. Materials Today Bio. 2022 Jan 1;13:100219. doi:10.1016/j.mtbio.2022.100219
7\. Ingber DE. Human organs-on-chips for disease modelling, drug development and personalized medicine. Nat Rev Genet. 2022 Aug;23(8):467–91. doi:10.1038/s41576-022-00466-9 PubMed PMID: 35338360; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC8951665.
8\. Hassell BA, Goyal G, Lee E, Sontheimer-Phelps A, Levy O, Chen CS, et al. Human Organ Chip Models Recapitulate Orthotopic Lung Cancer Growth, Therapeutic Responses, and Tumor Dormancy In Vitro. Cell Reports. 2017 Oct 10;21(2):508–16. doi:10.1016/j.celrep.2017.09.043 PubMed PMID: 29020635.
9\. Paek J, Park SE, Lu Q, Park KT, Cho M, Oh JM, et al. Microphysiological Engineering of Self-Assembled and Perfusable Microvascular Beds for the Production of Vascularized Three-Dimensional Human Microtissues. ACS Nano. 2019 Jul 23;13(7):7627–43. doi:10.1021/acsnano.9b00686
10\. Shirure VS, Bi Y, Curtis MB, Lezia A, Goedegebuure MM, Goedegebuure SP, et al. Tumor-on-a-chip platform to investigate progression and drug sensitivity in cell lines and patient-derived organoids. Lab Chip. 2018 Dec 7;18(23):3687–702. doi:10.1039/c8lc00596f PubMed PMID: 30393802; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC10644986.
11\. Jain S, Belkadi H, Michaut A, Sart S, Gros J, Genet M, et al. Using a micro-device with a deformable ceiling to probe stiffness heterogeneities within 3D cell aggregates. Biofabrication. 2024 Apr;16(3):035010. doi:10.1088/1758-5090/ad30c7
12\. Faisal SM, Comba A, Varela ML, Argento AE, Brumley E, Abel C, et al. The complex interactions between the cellular and non-cellular components of the brain tumor microenvironmental landscape and their therapeutic implications. Front Oncol. 2022 Oct 6;12. doi:10.3389/fonc.2022.1005069
13\. Micek HM, Visetsouk MR, Masters KS, Kreeger PK. Engineering the Extracellular Matrix to Model the Evolving Tumor Microenvironment. iScience. 2020 Nov 20;23(11):101742. doi:10.1016/j.isci.2020.101742
14\. Kutluk H, Bastounis EE, Constantinou I. Integration of Extracellular Matrices into Organ‐on‐Chip Systems. Adv Healthc Mater. 2023 Aug 8;12(20):2203256. doi:10.1002/adhm.202203256 PubMed PMID: 37018430; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC11468608.
15\. Bouquerel C, Dubrova A, Hofer I, T. Phan DT, Bernheim M, Ladaigue S, et al. Bridging the gap between tumor-on-chip and clinics: a systematic review of 15 years of studies. Lab on a Chip. 2023;23(18):3906–35. doi:10.1039/D3LC00531C
16\. Bouquerel C, César W, Barthod L, Arrak S, Battistella A, Gropplero G, et al. Precise and fast control of the dissolved oxygen level for tumor-on-chip. Lab Chip. 2022 Nov 8;22(22):4443–55. doi:10.1039/D2LC00696K
17\. A Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform Predicts Drug Response Using Organotypic Tumor Slice Culture | Cancer Research | American Association for Cancer Research \[Internet\]. \[cited 2026 Apr 3\]. Available from: https://aacrjournals.org/cancerres/article/82/3/510/678034/A-Microfluidic-Cancer-on-Chip-Platform-Predicts
18\. Dudaie M, Dotan E, Barnea I, Haifler M, Shaked NT. Detection of bladder cancer cells using quantitative interferometric label-free imaging flow cytometry. Cytometry Part A. 2024;105(8):570–9. doi:10.1002/cyto.a.24846
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
**Published:** August 27, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Gut-on-a-chip for disease models
[Organ-on-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) technologies replicate the physiological complexity of organs using [microfluidic](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/) and cell culture devices. The **gut-on-chip model**, primarily using the **Caco-2 cell line**, is a powerful tool for studying intestinal physiology and pathology, as Caco-2 cells can differentiate into a mix of intestinal epithelial cells under proper flow conditions.
Combining the [BE-FLOW microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/) with the [Fluigent Omi platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/) allows for **precise flow control** and **long-term culture**, promoting cell differentiation, nutrient supply, and enhanced intestinal barrier function to **mimic the human intestine**.
## Create a gut-on-a-chip model
Every successful organ-on-a-chip development needs a suitable microfluific chip, and easy to use microfluidic recirculation platform and the corresponding cell line to create the desired organ model.
In the case of gut-on-chip model, users would need Caco-2 cells cultured in fibronectin coated microfluidic channels.
- **[Microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/ "Microfluidic chip")**: The design of the BE-FLOW consists of 2 independent channels with threaded inlets and outlets enabling the insertion of connectors and tubing coupled to fluidic controllers. It is possible to apply an independent flow rate in both channels using any perfusion system (Fig.1).
- **Cell culture**: After coating the channels with fibronectin to enhance cells adhesion, Caco-2 cells are cultured for at least 24h to allow a well-established cell monolayer, before connecting it to the microfluidic setup
- **[Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)**: Omi is Fluigent’s **automated Organ-on-chip platform**. It was conceived to simplify complicated microfluidic setups for researchers in the organ-on-chip field. After having a homogeneous cell monolayer, the microfluidic chip could be connected to Omi, to launch a recirculation protocol for a defined period (Fig.2).
*Figure 1: Be-Flow microfluidic chip* (BeOnChip)
*Figure 2: The Omi, automated OoC platform.*
[Download the Full Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/application-note_gut-on-chip_caco2.pdf)
## Using the Omi platform for Organ-on-Chip Modeling
Caco-2 cells will form 3D structures under perfusion, compared to static conditions. The results of culturing the gut-on-chip model for up to seven days using the Omi show similar results to classical microfluidic setups. The advantage of using the Omi is its user-friendliness, as it can easily fit under a microscope and/or be placed inside an incubator.
As observed in the following figures, cell density has increased after being cultured under flow conditions. Cells started to colonize the top of the chip after three days, a feature not seen under static conditions.
 Microscopy photographs 10X of the perfused channel after initiation of recirculation
Microscopy photographs 10X of the perfused channel after 6 days of recirculation
## Conclusion
Omi, organ-on-chip platform, associated with BE-FLOW is a suitable solution for [long term recirculation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/) of cell culture media, to create a gut-on-chip model. It permits a high precision flow delivery which has permitted to obtain an interesting monolayer usable for an organ-on-a-chip application. **Omi** is easy to use, autonomous and portable under a microscope making it the **perfect companion for on-chip biology experiments**.
[Download the Full Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/04/application-note_gut-on-chip_caco2.pdf)
## Omi
[Omi ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Omi ")is an automated platform that helps reproduce the microphysiological behavior of organs inside microfluidic chips. It is compatible any type of chips to sustain different cell culture types or organ on chip models (Liver, Gut, Skin…).
[More information](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Related products
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies with this automated and fully integrated system (Shear stress, flow rate, and pressure control).
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
**Published:** September 1, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
Adoption of organ-on-a-chip (OOAC) technologies can require microfabrication facilities to develop specialized models. This can limit adoption in research labs. Recognizing this barrier, at the Institut Pasteur de Lille, the team of E. Delannoy, A Grassart, et. al. has developed the **3DP-μGut**, an accessible gut-on-chip model fabricated via desktop stereolithography (SLA) 3D printing.
In the publication *Lab on a Chip* (2025), [Flow **EZ flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Flow EZ flow controllers") and the [**Omi** **OOAC Platform**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Omi OOAC Platform") were used for continuous perfusion. By precisely controlling the flow rate, the platform achieved **physiologically relevant epithelial maturation**, sustained viability, and the ability to model complex host–microbe interactions under dynamic conditions. This represents a step toward broadening the use of **organ-on-chip technology** for biomedical research.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
*Figure 1: 3DP-μGut Model 3D structure, microbiota co-culture and shigella infection*
\*Delannoy E, Burette A, Janel S, Poiret S, Deboosere N, Daniel C, et al. Gut-on-chip methodology based on 3D-printed molds: a cost-effective and accessible approach. Lab Chip. 2025. doi:
## Gut-on-chip Design and Fabrication Approach
### Flow modeling – a key parameter in chip design
The researchers designed a **curved microchannel** (750 µm × 750 µm × 11 mm) with computer-aided design (CAD) which mirrors anatomical curvature, enhancing physiological relevance (Fig 2). Molds for these channels were rapidly prototyped via **desktop SLA 3D printing**. The molds were cast in PDMS, top and bottom channels (with the PET membrane in-between) were bonded together, resulting in dual-channel chips.
This methodology emphasizes:
- Accessible fabrication suited to most biology labs
- Rapid iteration and batch design
- Methods to create thin layers of PDMS suitable for high-resolution live imaging
*Figure *2*: Illustration of the 3D printed mold. A) Schematical view of the microfluidic channels and dimensions. B) Simulated shear stress inside the chip geometry (in Pa). C) Measured velocities of fluorescent beads inside the microfluidic channel. D) CAD model of the 3DP-μGut mold E) close up photo of one of the printed patterns for a top channel mold. F) 3D reconstitution of the printed patterns imaged with a surfaced microscope.*
To ensure physiological relevance, **COMSOL Multiphysics** was used to simulate flow within the curved channel.
- **Laminar flow** at **~60 µL/h** — was found to be suitable to provide gentle shear stress and to preserve epithelial layers.
Simulations predicted uniform shear stress along the channel floor, with values in the range favorable for **Caco-2 cell differentiation** (typically <0.1 Pa for intestinal epithelium).
### Perfusion and Flow Control
The 3DP-µGut was designed for compatibility with any perfusion system. In this study, the two Fluigent systems were compared:
1. **Flow EZ® Flow Controllers Set-up:** for individual channel control modular system
2. **Omi OOAC Platform**: Compact, automated, integrated platform adapted for biological use.
Both were connected via sterile tubing to culture medium reservoir, forming a **closed-loop perfusion circuit for recirculation of media**. As shown in Fig. 3, the Flow EZ set up provides a modular and adaptable system. The Omi is simpler to handle and set up with minimal tubing. The researcher used a Union connector in line to be able to disconnect the chip their convenience.
**Figure *3*: Flow EZ Perfusion Set-Up and Omi Platform with 3DP-µGut**
## Functional Impact of Controlled Perfusion in Gut-on-Chip Modelling
### 3D Epithelial Differentiation Mimicking In Vivo Tissue Architecture
Continuous perfusion in the 3DP-μGut had an impact on epithelial organization. Under flow rates of 60 µL/h by day 7, Caco-2 cells underwent polarization and formed dense monolayers with pronounced **villus-like protrusions**, closely resembling the three-dimensional microarchitecture of native intestinal epithelium (Fig 4).
*Figure *4*: Phase Contrast Imaging of Caco-2 Maturation 3DP-μGut maturation under flow conditions.. Top images: bar = 500 μm, bottom images: bar = 250 μm.*
The **shear stress generated by laminar flow** acts as a physiological cue, promoting cytoskeletal remodeling and modulating gene expression patterns linked to differentiation. These findings demonstrate that the integration of controlled perfusion into the 3DP-μGut is beneficial for replicating the structural and functional complexity of the intestinal epithelium in vitro.
Confocal cross-sections revealed organized actin cytoskeletons along the apical surface (while perfused from basal side), tight junction proteins such as ZO-1 and adherents junction markers as E-cadherin formed continuous epithelial barriers (Fig.5). In contrast, static cultures displayed poorly developed junctional complexes and an overall flatter morphology.
**Figure *5*: Immunofluorescence Staining of Caco-2 cell inside 3DP-µGut A) top view, nucleus in blue (DAPI and actin in green, bar = 750 μm B) cross-section view, nucleus in blue (DAPI), tight junctions (ZO-1) in red and actin in green, bar = 100 μm**
### Culturing under Static vs Dynamic Conditions
When comparing the static 3DP-µGut system to perfused conditions, villus height measurements were significantly greater under perfusion than in the static model. No significant difference was observed between the Flow EZ setup and the Omi platform, as both systems use the same feedback mechanism to regulate flow rate. For perfusion and recirculation applications, the Omi and Flow EZ setups can be used interchangeably
*Figure *6*: Comparison of 3DP-µGut model under static and flow conditions* *A) and B) Immunofluorescence staining of the Caco-2 cells inside the 3DP-μGut devices under static or flow conditions A) top view, actin in yellow bar = 750 μm B) cross section view, nucleus in blue (DAPI), adherent junctions (E-cadherin) in red and actin in yellow, bar = 100 μm. C) Villi height measurement between static and flow conditions with Omi (automated flow system) and Flow EZ (stand-alone system).*
### Gut on chip modeling with microbial Co-culture and pathogen infection
The formation of a differentiated, three-dimensional (3D) intestinal epithelium within the 3DP-μGut was essential for stable co-culture with the human commensal strain *L. plantarum* NCIMB8826. In the 3D-differentiated system, *L. plantarum* achieved stable colonization over 24 hours (Fig. 7), while in poorly structured monolayers subjected to a flow, bacteria were progressively washed out (Fig. 7 C, D).
At the flow velocities measured in the chip, such bacterial loss is consistent with previously reported washout effects in flat environments. The villus-like topography increased the available surface area for bacterial adhesion and created protective low-shear niches, reducing the risk of bacterial detachment and enabling more persistent colonization.
Similarly, infection assays with *Shigella flexneri* revealed a significantly higher rate of bacterial adhesion and invasion in the 3D-structured epithelium compared to the flat monolayer configuration (Fig. 7B, E). Quantitative analysis demonstrated increased bacterial load and more extensive epithelial invasion in regions of low flow velocity within the 3D architecture. These results indicate that a biomimetic 3D structure not only supports stable colonization by commensals but also more accurately reproduces pathogenic invasion dynamics.
These findings highlight the importance of epithelial differentiation and 3D structuration in replicating physiologically relevant host–microbe interactions and maintaining a stable co-culture environment under continuous flow.
*Figure 7: 3D μGut Model: Co-culture with L. plantarum (red) (A) and Infection with S. flexneri (green) (B) cale Bar = 1 mm (top), 500 μm (middle), 200 μm (bottom) C) L. plantarum count after retrieval from the 3DP-μGut. D) normalized L. plantarum density inside the 3DP-μGut over time E) Shigella flexneri bacterial area after infection*
## Conclusion and Future Directions
This gut on chip model methodology represents step forward to the accessibility of OOAC research and adopting cost-effective approach in biomedical research. It leverages technological advances with SLA 3D printing for rapid design and prototyping and precise flow-control technologies evolution for biology use. Dr Delannoy (2025) demonstrated the physiologically relevant epithelial maturation under flow, stable microbiological co-culture and pathogen infection. For future directions Delannoy et al. suggest several possible extensions:
- **Integration with immune cells** to model gut–immune interactions.
- **Use of primary intestinal organoid-derived epithelium** for patient-specific modeling.
- **Addition of peristaltic motion** using pneumatic actuation to mimic mechanical contractions.
- **Real-time biosensing** of TEER, oxygen, and pH for dynamic monitoring.
Such upgrades could turn the 3DP-μGut into a **full-featured intestinal physiology platform** capable of bridging fundamental research and preclinical testing.
[Access the Paper](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2025/lc/d5lc00147a)
## Related Solutions
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Related content
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies A multiplex microfluidic circuit for blood vessel-on-a-chip perfusion using Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Precision Microfluidics for Magnetic Nanoparticle Encapsulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/magnetic-nanoparticle-encapsulation/)
**Published:** October 13, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## What makes microfluidics ideal for the encapsulation of magnetic nanoparticles?
**Droplet-based microfluidics** has gained acceptance in medicine, agriculture, biosensing, catalysis, and environmental science. By producing **monodisperse droplets** in the nanoliter to picoliter range, it enables the formation of well-controlled microreactors with **low sample consumption, high reproducibility and minimal risk of contamination**. These characteristics make it particularly suitable for applications such as drug encapsulation, diagnostics, chemical synthesis, and cell culture. 1–4
The integration of **droplets with magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs)** offers a particularly promising approach, allowing **precise control over droplet** **movement** while simultaneously facilitating magnetic nanoparticle encapsulation within microfluidic environments. MNPs can be used to guide and control droplets remotely using magnetic fields, enabling operations like merging, splitting and sorting. Droplets can also encapsulate MNPs to ensure stability and reproducibility. Encapsulation prevents large aggregations, facilitates surface modification and improves targeting efficiency.1,3,5 This dual capability expands the range of possible applications in biomedical and chemical workflows.
*Figure *1*. Diverse applications of magnetic nanoparticles*4**
**Iron oxide nanoparticles** are among the most widely studied MNPs due to their high magnetic susceptibility, biocompatibility, and chemical stability. Their size, comparable to proteins or viruses, allows precise control with external magnetic fields, while their surface properties enable functionalization with drugs, ligands or biomolecules. These features make them particularly relevant for targeted delivery, imaging, hyperthermia, and other biomedical applications. 1–3,6
To support these encapsulation strategies, [Secoya Technologies](https://www.secoya-tech.com/ "Secoya Technologies") and Fluigent have developed a dedicated solution combining the RayDrop droplet generator with [Flow EZ pressure-based controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Flow EZ pressure-based controllers"). This system ensures stable and reproducible droplet formation, enabling reliable encapsulation of magnetic nanoparticles.
## Reliable encapsulation of magnetic nanoparticles
### Materials:
**Magnetic nanoparticles coating:**
- Iron oxide nanopowder Fe3O4, particle size 50-100 nm (SEM), 97% trace metals basis (637106, Sigma-Aldrich)
- 0.5M citric acid solution (Citric acid, 99%, C0759, Sigma Aldrich)
**Reagents:**
- Core phase:
- Distilled water
- Shell phase:
- 97% in wt. Poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate average Mn 250 (PEGDA250, 475629, Sigma Aldrich) and 3% in wt. 2-Hydroxy-2-methylpropiophenone (Darocur, 97%, 405655, Sigma Aldrich).
- Continuous phase:
- 1% in wt. Poly(vinyl alcohol) Mw 9000-10000, 80% hydrolyzed (PVA, 360627, Sigma Aldrich) in DI water
**Products:**
- Microfluidic flow controller: Flow EZ
- Microfluidic flow sensor: Flow Unit
- Microfluidic double emulsion device: RayDrop Double Emulsion
- Microfluidic software control: The Link
- [UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
- Real-time control and lab automation software: [OxyGEN ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/ "OxyGEN ")
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
**Microfluidic setup:**
The iron oxide nanoparticles are coated with citric acid to be suspended in an aqueous solution.
The setup for the generation of droplets is illustrated in the following Figure 2 using the [UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/) The Flow EZ are connected to the core phase, the shell phase and the continuous phase.
*Figure *2*. Scheme of the setup of encapsulated magnetic nanoparticles production*
The microcapsules were produced using the RayDrop 90-160-450 µm (diameters of core, shell nozzles, and the collection capillary respectively).
**Figure 3. RayDrop picture with dimensions**
### Protocol: workflow for microfluidic encapsulation of magnetic nanoparticles
- All liquids are filtered to avoid clogging (pore size 0.2 µm).
- All solutions are de-gassed to minimize air bubbles inside the system.
**Stage 0: Magnetic nanoparticle coating**7
- Iron oxide nanoparticles are dispersed and coated with citric acid to improve stability.
**Stage 1: Preparation**
- The RayDrop is connected to Flow EZ controllers and purged before operation to ensure that all the channels leading to the system and to the waste outlet are wetted to purge air.
**Stage 2: Single emulsion generation**
- Shell material was first encapsulated alone in the continuous phase, increasing pressure until reaching jetting mode to validate droplet stability.
**Stage 3: Double emulsion generation**
- Production of a double emulsion of the shell phase by adjusting the core phase press, due to the shearing of this phase with the previous phase produced during single emulsion. Magnetic nanoparticles are encapsulated in the aqueous core phase.
**Stage 4: Collection and cross-linking**
- Once the droplets containing iron oxide nanoparticles are formed, UV irradiation triggers cross-linking, forming a stable 3D network.
- The UV module is positioned so droplets are visible at the outlet. Flow rates can be fine-tuned to ensure uniformity and stable production.
- The output of the UV module is collected into distilled water.
[Download the complete protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/magnetic-nanoparticle-encapsulation/#download)
## Magnetic Nanoparticles Encapsulation: Stability and Magnetic Performance Results
**Encapsulation of magnetic nanoparticles** was successfully achieved within the aqueous core of the microcapsules (Figure 3), across a concentration range of **10 to 40 g/L**. The approximate size of microcapsules is 300 µm.
At 10 g/L (~1% m(MNPs)/m(capsule), the suspensions were **stable** and displayed moderate **magnetic responsiveness**. Increasing the concentration to 20 g/L (~2%) and 40 g/L (~4%) further **improved stability**, producing suspensions that were more responsive to an external magnet compared to sedimented samples. The ratio m(MNPs)/m(capsule) shows how much of the microcapsule’s total mass is made up of magnetic nanoparticles, indicating the level of nanoparticle loading.
Additional tests at 30 g/L confirmed sufficient responsiveness for **attraction by a neodymium** **magnet**. As shown in Figure 4, nanoparticles aligned along the **magnetic field lines**, and this alignment persisted after removal of the magnet, demonstrating strong interparticle interactions within the microcapsule core.
*Figure 4. Encapsulation of iron oxide nanoparticles (before applying a magnetic field)*
*Figure 5. Alignment of encapsulated magnetic nanoparticles along magnetic field lines of a magnet*
**Figure 6. Encapsulation of iron oxide nanoparticles after exposure to a magnetic field**
## Conclusion
This work highlights the potential of droplet-based microfluidics for the **encapsulation of magnetic nanoparticles** into stable and magnetically active microcapsules. Using **Secoya’s RayDrop** and **Fluigent’s fluid delivery technology**, precise and reproducible droplet encapsulation can be achieved, with tunable nanoparticle concentrations. The magnetically responsive and stable suspensions produced are suitable for applications such as targeted drug delivery, biosensing and diagnostic platforms.
**Ready to explore precise encapsulation for your magnetic nanoparticle research?**
[Contact our experts ](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/ "Contact our experts ")or explore [Fluigent’s microfluidic systems](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/ "Fluigent’s microfluidic systems") to find the right solution for your application.
[Let’s Discuss Your Needs](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Download the Complete Protocol
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Creating Microcapsules With PEGDA Hydrogel Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pegda-hydrogel-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Agarose Microcapsules Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## References
(1) Li, J.; Su, K.; Liu, H.; Zou, Y. Recent Advances in Magnetically Actuated Droplet Manipulation for Biomedical Applications. *Magnetochemistry* **2024**, *10* (4), 28. https://doi.org/10.3390/magnetochemistry10040028.
(2) Lima-Tenório, M. K.; Gómez Pineda, E. A.; Ahmad, N. M.; Fessi, H.; Elaissari, A. Magnetic Nanoparticles: In Vivo Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy. *Int. J. Pharm.* **2015**, *493* (1–2), 313–327. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijpharm.2015.07.059.
(3) Aisida, S. O.; Akpa, P. A.; Ahmad, I.; Zhao, T.; Maaza, M.; Ezema, F. I. Bio-Inspired Encapsulation and Functionalization of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Biomedical Applications. *Eur. Polym. J.* **2020**, *122*, 109371. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.eurpolymj.2019.109371.
(4) Ali, A.; Shah, T.; Ullah, R.; Zhou, P.; Guo, M.; Ovais, M.; Tan, Z.; Rui, Y. Review on Recent Progress in Magnetic Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Characterization, and Diverse Applications. *Front. Chem.* **2021**, *9*, 629054. https://doi.org/10.3389/fchem.2021.629054.
(5) Madhulatha, A. V. S.; Susithra, E.; Gunda, R. K. Development of Magnetic Nanoparticles and Encapsulation Methods – An Overview. *Indian J. Pharm. Educ. Res.* **2022**, *56* (1), 01–08. https://doi.org/10.5530/ijper.56.1.1.
(6) Cheraghipour, E.; Javadpour, S.; Mehdizadeh, A. R. Citrate Capped Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles Used for Hyperthermia Therapy. *J. Biomed. Sci. Eng.* **2012**, *05* (12), 715–719. https://doi.org/10.4236/jbise.2012.512089.
(7) Khan, S.; Shah, Z. H.; Riaz, S.; Ahmad, N.; Islam, S.; Raza, M. A.; Naseem, S. Antimicrobial Activity of Citric Acid Functionalized Iron Oxide Nanoparticles –Superparamagnetic Effect. *Ceram. Int.* **2020**, *46* (8), 10942–10951. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ceramint.2020.01.109.
*Written by Maï Loan LE in collaboration with Secoya Technologies*
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
**Published:** May 23, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## What is FACS sorting?
Analyzing cellular behavior at the single-cell level is important to life sciences as it enables a better understanding of cellular heterogeneity, which can be used for personalized medicine. [FACS technology](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/workshop-double-emulsion-production-with-facs/) is a biology tool solution that offers an efficient selection of individual particles of interest among a complex population. FACS, or Fluorescence-Activated Cell Sorting, is based on the measurement of fluorescence signals at multiple wavelengths under laser excitation of cells flowing in line in a confined stream. The measured intensity gives information on the particle size, complexity, or specific phenotype, such as protein secretion. When the particle of interest is detected, an electric charge is applied, deflecting the cell towards a collecting tube.
## Why is droplet sorting associated with droplet microfluidics?
Despite its potential for single-cell analysis and sorting, FACS sorting has two major limitations. First, it allows for single-cell analysis, but the analyzed sample usually is a bulk cell culture involving cellular interaction, preventing a real single-cell characterization (cells influence each other’s behavior). Second, FACS requires that the signal remains at the surface or inside the cells, which can be compatible with certain applications but often requires damaging cell treatment (i.e. fixation) and induces cellular death, preventing further analysis of the cell.
Droplet microfluidics removes these limitations. By confining single-cells inside droplets, droplet microfluidics allows for a full single-cell assay and ensures that the fluorescence signal stays in a closed area without using damaging chemicals. Droplet sorting using FACS technology recently emerged as a powerful tool to combine efficient sorting and [single-cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/). Water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) double emulsions are of particular interest for droplet FACS sorting, since this application requires that the particles flow in an aqueous continuous phase \[1\].
In this application note, we encapsulate fluorescent bacteria in water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) double emulsions in one step using the [FACS platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/) and perform droplet sorting using FACS technology to select only fluorescent particles.
This document was made in partnership with Delphine Lestrade, Head of the TWB (Toulouse White Biotechnology) cytometry platform, Sophie Lajus, researcher at the TBI (Toulouse Biotechnology Institute), and Sandra Pizzut-Serin and Sophie Bozonnet, from the ICEO-PICT platform.
*Figure 1 Principle of the combination of WOW double emulsion with FACS sorting 2*
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
## Testimonial
As an expert in leading research and development (R&D) projects, TWB supports the industry via the development of innovative and sustainable solutions for the benefit of the planet and mankind.
TWB conducts R&D projects in the field of industrial biotechnology in collaboration with public laboratories and industrial players. They support the development of start-ups by offering them access to state-of-the-art scientific and technological environments and encourage the emergence of breakthrough innovations. By bringing together researchers, entrepreneurs, funders, institutions and industries, TWB integrates and leverages industry knowledge and simplifies the contractual relationship. This unique model accelerates the innovation process needed for the creation of an eco-responsible industry.
 At TWB, the Cytometry Platform is responsible for developing and defining new protocols for high-throughput cytometry assays for the identification and characterization of microorganisms.
**Delphine Lestrade, Head of the TWB (Toulouse White Biotechnology) cytometry platform**
## Webinar on double emulsion for FACS
Learn how to use our double emulsion platform to encapsulate bacteria in W/O/W DE and discover the DE sorting efficiency using FACS.
[Access the recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
## How to encapsulate bacteria in double emulsions
### Materials
**Reagents:**
Making a double emulsion requires three different solutions: a core phase, a shell phase, and a continuous phase. The shell phase must be immiscible with the two other phases. Here, we add a fourth solution: the collection phase, in which we retrieve the emulsion for further droplet sorting. In addition, instead of having a simple core phase, we have a priming phase to start producing W/O/W DE, and an injection phase that contains biological materials (here bacteria in LB medium), that we introduce in the core fluid path using an injection loop.
**Continuous phase:** MilliQ water + 2% V/V Tween20
**Shell phase:** Dsurf 2% in HFE 7500 oil
**Priming phase:** MilliQ water for system priming and flow stabilization
**Injection phase:** LB culture medium with ~108/mL E.coli expressing the Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) in the injection loop for bacterial encapsulation
**Collecting phase:** MilliQ water + 2% V/V Tween20 + 150mM NaCl
**Products:**
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Microfluidic Injection Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/)
### How to encapsulate e-coli in double emulsions
We start the experiment by filling the [Raydrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) with the continuous phase. When the microfluidic chip is full, we set the pressure on the shell phase’s flow controller and make simple droplets of the shell. Once the flow is stabilized, we progressively increase the core flowrate until a double emulsion is formed. The double emulsion‘s shell thickness can be tuned by playing with the core and shell flow-rate ratio. In addition, the droplet size can be controlled by increasing or decreasing the continuous flow rate. At this stage, a simple W/O/W double emulsion is made.
*Figure 2 Production of double emulsions using the Raydrop® 3*
We then make sure that the [L-switch](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/) is set on position 2 and fill the injection loop by injecting the bacterial culture in port 5. Then, we switch to position 1, and after a certain time depending on the core phase flowrate, encapsulation of e-coli begins. After some time (15 – 25 minutes depending on the flowrate), the encapsulation is over.
For more details about the encapsulation process, please refer to the [full application note. ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/#download "full application note. ")
*Figure 3 Position 1 and position 2 of the L switch*
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### What is the best method for Microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast in Small Double Emulsions?
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/what-is-the-best-method-for-microencapsulation-of-bacteria-and-yeast-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
## Microscopic validation
Before droplet sorting with FACS, particle size and monodispersity were assessed using microscopic imaging. The coefficient of variation of the core size was found to be 1.65% and the global droplet diameter has a coefficient of variation of 2%.
*Figure 4 Microscopic observation and analysis of the DE containing fluorescent e coli with A BF + GFP microscopic image stack B the core area finding using image J and C the mean core diameter value with the standard deviation scalebar = 20µm*
After microscopy validation, the double emulsions were passed through a Moflo Atrios FACS system for droplet sorting based on the fluorescence signal inside the drop. The fluorescent particles were collected in one tube and the non-fluorescent ones (empty or encapsulating non-fluorescent bacteria) in a second tube.
*Figure 5 FACS machine used for sorting A with a zoom to the sorting area B and cytometry analysis and gating C*
A microscopic validation was then performed on the content of both tubes. We notice that for the first vial, the droplets are all green florescent, whereas none of the droplets from tube 2 are. This confirms efficient droplet sorting. In addition, the fluorescence-activated cell sorting machine displayed a sorting efficiency of 75-95%.
*Figure 6 BF and GFP stack image of fluorescent droplets A and empty droplets B after sorting scalebar = 20µm*
## Conclusion
FACS sorting was efficiently performed on double emulsions encapsulating Escherichia coli based on the measure of fluorescence inside the droplets. The W/O/W droplets generated with the platform showed good monodispersity, and the platform’s ability to generate high volumes of droplets in a short time with low biological sample consumption (200mL of double emulsion produced in <30min) was helpful for this application.
## Download the Complete Protocol
## Related Resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes What is the best method for Microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast in Small Double Emulsions? Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
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## Webinar Recording
- [
### WEBINAR: Encapsulation of fluorescent bacteria in double emulsions for FACS sorting
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
- [
### WEBINAR: Single cell encapsulations compatible with FACS sorting, API encapsulations in biocompatible polymers, and more
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-cell-encapsulations/)
- [
### Workshop – Double emulsion production compatible with fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) for cell sorting application
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/workshop-double-emulsion-production-with-facs/)
- [
### Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
## References
\[1\] K.K. Brower, C. Carswell-Crumpton, S. Klemm, B. Cruz, G. Kim, S.G.K. Calhoun, L. Nichols, P.M. Fordyce. Double emulsion flow cytometry with highthroughput single droplet isolation and nucleic acid recovery, LabChip, 2020, 20, 2062-2074
\[2\] E. Mastrobattista, V. Taly, E. Chanudet, P. Treacy, B. T. Kelly, A. D. Griffiths, Chemistry & Biology 2005, 12, 1291.
\[3\] DEWANDRE, Adrien, RIVERO-RODRIGUEZ, Javier, VITRY, Youen, SOBAC, Benjamin et SCHEID, Benoit, 2020. Microfluidic droplet generation based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing using 3D printed nozzle. Scientific Reports. 10 décembre 2020. Vol. 10, n° 1, pp. 21616. DOI 10.1038/s41598-020-77836-y.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
**Published:** September 30, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## Introduction
Polymers were first introduced three decades ago as bioresorbable surgical devices. Since then, polymer-based nanoparticles have been extensively studied. Nanocarriers formulated with biocompatible and biodegradable polymers approved by the US FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and EMA (European Medicines Agency) are being studied for the controlled delivery of various therapeutic agents (1).
Among the various polymers synthesized for formulating polymeric nanoparticles, poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is the most popular. PLGA nanoparticles have several beneficial properties such as controlled and sustained release, **low cytotoxicity, long-standing biomedical applications, biocompatibility with tissues and cells, prolonged residence time and targeted delivery** (6). These characteristics have accelerated the PLGA nanoparticle synthesis for use as **nano-drug delivery systems** (nanoDDS) in a wide variety of diseases, including cardiovascular, neurodegenerative and inflammatory and immune system diseases, infection, cancer, regenerative medicine and the fields of theragnostic and vaccines (4).
When PLGA is used as an active pharmaceutical ingredient carrier, it’s important to produce highly monodispersed particles for drug release reproducibility. **PLGA nanoparticle synthesis** with different characteristics (size, size distribution, morphology, zeta potential) is also possible by controlling the parameters specific to the synthesis method employed (3).
Current methods of particle synthesis rely largely on batch stirred homogenizers (single emulsion, double emulsion, etc.). However, they generally tend to have low reproducibility and are not well controlled. Some have low encapsulation efficiency and low drug loading. As narrow distributions, small particle size, and controllable synthesis are required in the field of smart drug delivery, these do not provide a highly effective solution for the pharmaceutical industry (4).
Microfluidic methods and, especially the **3D hydrodynamic flow-mediated nanoparticle production strategy** of the RayDropTM make it possible to obtain a continuous PLGA nanoparticle synthesis with **high monodispersity, high reproducibility and a wide range of nanoparticle size.**
## PLGA nanoparticle synthesis: Materials and methods
PLGA nanoparticle production has been performed with [Fluigent’s Nanoparticle Production Station](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/ "Fluigent’s Nanoparticle Production Station"), a robust and complete system for precise and long-term production of nanoparticles with flexible particle size range.
### PLGA Nanoparticle production setup
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
### Reagents
**Continuous phase:** deionized water and 1 % Polyvinyl alcohol Mw 9000 – 10000 80% hydrolyzed (Sigma Aldrich).
**Inner phase:** technical acetone, and PLGA Resomer 756 1 % (Sigma Aldrich).
**Inner phase to initiate and clean** : technical acetone.
Figure 1: Scheme of the fluidic setup
Figure 2: Picture of the Fluigent equipment
## PLGA nanoparticle synthesis
In the microfluidic solvent diffusion method, nanoparticles are synthesized in a microchannel after mixing between PLGA-acetone solution and water, following a three-dimensional hydrodynamic flow focusing (3D MHF) strategy.
In this approach, flow focusing squeezes the PLGA in acetone stream between water streams fully surrounding the PLGA phase and resulting in rapid solvent exchange via diffusion and PLGA nanoparticles precipitation (9). Particle formation takes place spontaneously at the nucleation spots that are distributed through the mixture Figure 1 (10).
The reagents and precipitating NPs are isolated from the channel walls, minimizing aggregation and/or clogging. In addition, by constraining the sample stream in the center of the microchannel- where flow velocity reaches the maximum with less variation- the 3D focused sample stream is expected to have a uniform width and thus improve the uniformity of the solvent/non-solvent ratio. This allows a robust and predictable nanoparticle synthesis, and facilitates the production of highly uniform nanoscale PLGA nanoparticles (12-14).
Figure 3 Schematic of 3D coaxial capillary device
[Download the complete protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/#download)
## PLGA nanoparticle synthesis: Partial results
Fluigent has generated PLGA nanoparticles of different sizes by varying parameters related to our microfluidic system, thus establishing a relation between the diameter of the nanoparticle, the stream diameter, the flow rate ratio and the total flow rate.
Figure 4 PLGA nanoparticles mean diameter as a function of the flow rate ratio FRR
Figure 5 Steady co flow of acetone and waterPVA
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
## Conclusion
PLGA nanoparticles as biocompatible nanocarriers represent one of the most innovative, non-invasive approaches for drug delivery applications. However, their targeting functions are largely affected by size. In the case of tumor targeting and drug delivery, currently the commonly recognized size range for PLGA nanoparticles is 100-300 nm, as it allows for the correct targeting of nanoparticles to the desired tissue (18).
PLGA nanoparticle size may be controlled by tuning the synthesis method and parameters of operation.
In this application note, we have demonstrated the PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using a microfluidic system (3D microfluidic hydrodynamic flow) consisting of pressure-based flow controllers and the [RayDrop™ microfluidic device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "Raydrop Double Emulsions") with standard configuration.
PLGA nanoparticles ranging from 110 to 250 nm were generated. This size range is optimal for various biological applications, such as tumor targeting, as it falls within the compatible size range. The Polydispersity Index (PDI) ranges from 0.05 to 0.1. Sizes can be adjusted by controlling the device flow input parameters, particularly the flow rate ratio (FRR). In this way, the ability to synthesize PLGA nanoparticles in a more controllable and reproducible way creates possibilities for custom tuning surface properties.
A full-featured, cost-effective and readily available platform for the on-demand production of monodisperse PLGA nanoparticles is now available. This allows for control of nanoparticle size and frequency by adjusting flow parameters.
## Download the Complete Protocol
## Resources & Expertises
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## References
1. Astete, C., & Sabliov, C. (2006). Synthesis and characterization of PLGA nanoparticles. Journal Of Biomaterials Science, Polymer Edition, 17(3), 247-289. doi: 10.1163/156856206775997322
2. Danhier, F., Ansorena, E., Silva, J., Coco, R., Le Breton, A., & Préat, V. (2012). PLGA-based nanoparticles: An overview of biomedical applications. Journal Of Controlled Release, 161(2), 505-522. doi: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2012.01.043
3. Acharya, S., & Sahoo, S. (2011). PLGA nanoparticles containing various anticancer agents and tumour delivery by EPR effect. Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 63(3), 170-183. doi: 10.1016/j.addr.2010.10.008
4. Senapati, S., Mahanta, A., Kumar, S., & Maiti, P. (2018). Controlled drug delivery vehicles for cancer treatment and their performance. Signal Transduction And Targeted Therapy, 3(1). doi: 10.1038/s41392-017-0004-3
5. Sahoo, S., Panyam, J., Prabha, S., & Labhasetwar, V. (2002). Residual polyvinyl alcohol associated with poly (d,l-lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles affects their physical properties and cellular uptake. Journal Of Controlled Release, 82(1), 105-114. doi: 10.1016/s0168-3659(02)00127-x
6. Rezvantalab, S., Drude, N., Moraveji, M., Güvener, N., Koons, E., & Shi, Y. et al. (2018). PLGA-Based Nanoparticles in Cancer Treatment. Frontiers In Pharmacology, 9. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2018.01260
7. Tewes, F., Munnier, E., Antoon, B., Ngaboni Okassa, L., Cohen-Jonathan, S., & Marchais, H. et al. (2007). Comparative study of doxorubicin-loaded poly(lactide-co-glycolide) nanoparticles prepared by single and double emulsion methods. European Journal Of Pharmaceutics And Biopharmaceutics, 66(3), 488-492. doi: 10.1016/j.ejpb.2007.02.016
8. Niwa, T., Takeuchi, H., Hino, T., Kunou, N., & Kawashima, Y. (1993). Preparations of biodegradable nanospheres of water-soluble and insoluble drugs with D,L-lactide/glycolide copolymer by a novel spontaneous emulsification solvent diffusion method, and the drug release behavior. Journal Of Controlled Release, 25(1-2), 89-98. doi: 10.1016/0168-3659(93)90097-o
9. Surdo, S., Geven, M., Donno, R., Diaspro, A., Tirelli, N., & Duocastella, M. (2018). Cavitation-Assisted Micromixing for Polymeric Nanoparticle Generation. EUROSENSORS 2018. doi: 10.3390/proceedings2130942
10. Karnik, R., Gu, F., Basto, P., Cannizzaro, C., Dean, L., & Kyei-Manu, W. et al. (2008). Microfluidic Platform for Controlled Synthesis of Polymeric Nanoparticles. Nano Letters, 8(9), 2906-2912. doi: 10.1021/nl801736q
11. Rezvantalab, S., & Keshavarz Moraveji, M. (2019). Microfluidic assisted synthesis of PLGA drug delivery systems. RSC Advances, 9(4), 2055-2072. doi: 10.1039/c8ra08972h
12. Rhee, M., Valencia, P.M., Rodriguez, M.I., Langer, R., Farokhzad, O.C. and Karnik, R. (2011), Synthesis of Size-Tunable Polymeric Nanoparticles Enabled by 3D Hydrodynamic Flow Focusing in Single-Layer Microchannels. Adv. Mater., 23: H79-H83. https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.201004333
13. Lim, J., Bertrand, N., Valencia, P., Rhee, M., Langer, R., & Jon, S. et al. (2014). Parallel microfluidic synthesis of size-tunable polymeric nanoparticles using 3D flow focusing towards in vivo study. Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology, Biology And Medicine, 10(2), 401-409. doi: 10.1016/j.nano.2013.08.003
14. Génot, V., Desportes, S., Croushore, C., Lefèvre, J., Pansu, R., Delaire, J., & von Rohr, P. (2010). Synthesis of organic nanoparticles in a 3D flow focusing microreactor. Chemical Engineering Journal, 161(1-2), 234-239. doi: 10.1016/j.cej.2010.04.029
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microsphere-production/)
**Published:** February 19, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What are PLGA Microspheres?
In the pharmaceutical field, **progress for effective disease treatment** requires the [**precise delivery of drugs**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)**, vaccines, genes, and various biomolecules to specific sites** while simultaneously ensuring the **stability** and **safety** of these agents. Ongoing research has long explored new drug delivery formulations, with a current emphasis placed on **polymeric microparticle systems** and their advantages.
Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) or **PLGA microspheres** have gained interest as **controlled drug release** **carriers** in the pharmaceutical and biomedical field due to their favorable properties such as **biodegradability**, **biocompatibility**, **controllable drug release profiles**, and **surface modification capabilities** for targeted treatment. As a result, PLGA microbeads can be already found in various applications and research works, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, dentistry, orthopedics, vaccine therapy, theranostics, and emerging diseases like COVID-19 (Figure 1).1,2
Figure 1. Example of some applications where PLGA can be used for drug delivery. \[1\]
## What are the traditional methods of PLGA formation?
Various techniques can be applied for the **preparation of microparticles** in drug delivery applications, including **physicochemical**, **chemical**, and **mechanical processes** leading to a great **variety of** **morphologies**, **structures**, and **size ranges** (Figure 2).3
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/02/plga-preparation-techniques.png) Figure 2. Schematic overview of different techniques for microparticle preparation. \[3\]
Figure 3. Schematic of PLGA microspheres prepared via emulsification. \[4\]
Even though **emulsification–solvent evaporation** is a simple, low-cost, and fast technique, it presents a **low encapsulation efficiency** and a **polydispersity of the PLGA microsphere size**. In addition, the encapsulation of hydrophilic agents often requires double or multiple emulsions, which pose drawbacks using the emulsification-solvent evaporation process such as the need for **large amounts of organic solvents** and **challenges in scaling up** (Figure 3).4
Other strategies like **spray drying and electrospray** offer appealing approaches for microencapsulation (Figure 4). The process involves spraying a solid-in-oil dispersion or water-in-oil emulsion in a stream of heated air to produce drug-loaded microspheres.
While this method is **effective in encapsulating various drugs/proteins** **without significant loss of biological activity,** a major **drawback** is the **adhesion of microparticles** **to the inner walls** of the spray dryer.
Additionally, **controlling particle** **size** can be **challenging**, and **yields for small batches are moderate**.4,5
**Microfluidic technologies** emerge as a **powerful tool for PLGA microsphere synthesis**, enabling a **precise generation of microbeads** with **high monodispersed**, **tunable structures**, and **excellent encapsulation efficiency**. Unlike bulk emulsification methods, microfluidic devices generate emulsions by fabricating one drop at a time between two immiscible liquid phases. This process results in **highly monodisperse** emulsion droplets, offering **precise control over the size** of the final polymer microparticles. Despite the limited production scale in a single microfluidic device, scaling up is achievable by simultaneously operating multiple devices in parallel.3,4,5
Figure 4. Diagram of the spray drying process. \[4\]
Figure 5. Ethyl Acetate – PLGA droplet production with the RayDrop.
Yet **a prolonged multi-hour operation for** [**PLGA microparticle production**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/) remains **challenging** to achieve with classical chips due to their planar geometry, especially for **low-size PLGA microspheres (1-10 µm).** Secoya Technology’s RayDrop addresses planar microfluidic limitations by employing **two cylindrical capillaries in a metallic chamber**6. One capillary injects droplets through a 3D-printed nozzle, while the other collects droplets. The cylindrical geometry **prevents contact with capillary walls**, **avoiding wetting issues** **and ensuring high-quality microfluidics**.
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
Method Advantages Drawbacks Emulsification solvent – evaporation – Easy scaling-up
– Certain ability to control particle size– Biomacromolecule instability
– Batch-to-Batch variance
– Polydispersity of particle size Spray-drying – Fast and convenient
– Suitable for OEM scaling up
– Less harsh conditions for proteins– Adhesion of the microspheres to the inner walls of the spray dryer
– Difficulty in control of sizeMicrofluidics – Precise of processing parameters
Monodispersity
– Ease of fabricating double, triple, and even higher-order emulsions – Instrument dependent
– Relatively low yield
Table 1. Advantages and drawbacks of microparticule production techniques. \[5\]
## How to produce PLGA microspheres (1-10 microns) using a single emulsion device, the RayDrop
[**Our previous application note regarding the synthesis of PLGA microparticles**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/) already demonstrated the **capabilities of the RayDrop** to produce **PLGA microspheres** with diameters between **15 and 50 µm**. In comparison to other technologies available on the market, the PLGA microbead production pack enables great **reproducibility** and significantly **increased monodispersity** (CV 2%) (Figure 6). It enables uninterrupted, **long-term production of PLGA microparticles** for use in investigations.7,8
However, **the PLGA microspheres** produced **had a minimal diameter of 15 µm**. This minimal microparticle diameter is due to the only RayDrop geometry available at the time of redaction: The 30-150 µm (inlet nozzle diameter – collection capillary diameter). As new RayDrop geometries can generate smaller droplets than the 30-150 version, **it is** **expected that the RayDrop can now produce smaller PLGA microbeads**.
Therefore, this application note demonstrates the capability of the **RayDrop single emulsion device to produce PLGA microspheres in the range of 1 to 10 µm** and **that any formulation developed with one specific RayDrop configuration can directly be used with another configuration** to achieve different particle sizes.
Figure 6. Microscope observation of PLGA microparticles produced by the RayDrop 30-150 µm
### PLGA Fabrication Materials
**Reagents**
The reagents used for the PLGA microsphere production are: deionized water, PLGA Resomer RG 755 s, Poly(vinyl alcohol) (MW13000-23000, 87-89%, hydrolyzed) and Ethyl Acetate (purity 99.7%). All reagents were purchased from Sigma-Aldrich.
The composition of the different phases used are:
Continuous phase Droplet phase
priming & cleaning Droplet phase
production Water+1% PVA Ethyl Acetate Ethyl Acetate+2% PLGA
### Microfluidic Setup
**A** [**RayDrop**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) **with a 30 µm inlet nozzle and a 45 µm counter nozzle** is used to perform the PLGA microsphere generation (Figure 7). Its functionality is based on aligning two capillaries within a pressurized chamber containing the outer phase. The inner phase exits through a 3D-printed nozzle positioned in front of a second capillary, where it becomes enveloped by the outer phase. **This coflow-focusing approach deviates from the conventional embedded approach and facilitates the creation of a hydrodynamically focused 3D stream**. This unique design **eliminates wettability issues observed in classical microfluidic chips.**
Figure 7. Simplified structure of the Raydrop
The RayDrop (30-45) was installed in the [**Complex Emulsion Production Platform**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/) **for easy fluids and droplet flow**, **control**, and **imaging**. The platform is divided into three parts: mechanical, fluidic, and optical (Figure 8).
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
The mechanical assembly includes different displacement plates. These allow one to adjust the camera by moving it in x, y, and z directions. It is also possible to position the RayDrop to optimize the visibility of the nozzles on the screen.
The fluidic part contains all the pressure-driven controllers, tubing, and valves necessary for the circulation of fluids. **Fluigent’s FlowEZ and Flow Units** enable **real-time control and measurement of the flow rates**, and **transitioning from pressure control to flow rate control becomes feasible**. Our pressure-driven controllers permit **high flow stability** and a **fast flow change response**. This capability enables **the continuous production of highly uniform droplets** over an **extended duration**. Also, it is possible to easily set a different pressure or flow rate for each phase.
The optical section contains an LED light source and a color USB 3.0 camera. This camera is connected to a computer to observe droplet formation in real time, as well as to control the stability of the emulsion and measure the size of the generated droplets.
Figure 8. Simplified microfluidic circuit of the Complex Emulsion Production Platform for PLGA microparticle synthesis.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Automation Pack)
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-microparticle-production-station-automation-package/)
### The preparation process of PLGA microspheres
To generate droplets easily, the system must **first be started with pure solvent** in the droplet phase (Ethyl Acetate). **Once the droplet formation is stabilized**, the droplet phase is **switched to the solution containing the PLGA.** This avoids possible clogging issues during the transient phase.
Once the PLGA solution traverses the tubing and reaches the RayDrop, a single emulsion with PLGA droplets is produced in the aqueous continuous phase (Figure 9). **The emulsion’s properties are created by adjusting flow rates through Fluigent’s software, Oxygen, to achieve the desired droplet diameter.**
The PLGA-Ethyl Acetate droplets can be collected by immersing the tip of the outlet tubing in a small bath of deionized water.
Before concluding the experiment, **the cleaning of the RayDrop is done by flushing the droplet phase tubing** and the RayDrop nozzle with Ethyl Acetate to dissolve and remove the PLGA, ensuring tubing cleanliness and avoiding clogging issues.
Finally, the **PLGA-Ethyl Acetate droplets were left for 5 minutes** to complete the polymerization process and **were observed with the EvosXL microscope** and a 40x magnification.
Figure 9. PLGA-Ethyl Acetate droplets in the counter nozzle.
## Results: Small microsphere formation with a high monodispersity
Table 2 summarizes the flow rates used to generate the PLGA-Ethyl Acetate droplets and the size of the droplets generated. **The RayDrop produces highly monodisperse droplets (21.3 µm mean diameter) with a CV<2%** (Figure 10).
Pressure (mbar) Flowrate (µL/min) Continuous phase (Water+1% PVA) 40035Droplet phase (EthylAcetate+2% PLGA) 801.8**Mean diameter (µm)** **CV (%)** EthylAcetate+2% PLGA Droplet size 21.3 1.5 PLGA microsphere size 6.9 2.4 *Table 2. PLGA-Ethyl Acetate droplet production and PLGA microsphere production.*
Figure 10. PLGA-Ethyl Acetate droplets in the counter nozzle.
Figure 11. PLGA microparticles observed with an EvosXL and 40x magnification objective. The size bar measures 100 µm.
After collection, ethyl acetate starts to gradually diffuse into the surrounding aqueous solution. Thus, PLGA undergoes precipitation, transforming the droplet into a solid bead. **The solvent removal process leads to a reduction in droplet volume, resulting in the formation of a solid bead with a final fixed size.**
The figure below presents the produced PLGA microparticles.**The PLGA microspheres present a mean diameter of 6.9 µm with a high monodispersity (CV=2.4%)** (Figure 11)**.**
## Conclusion
The present proof of concept demonstrates **the capabilities of the RayDrop to produce PLGA microspheres in the range 1-10 µm** with a mean diameter of 6.9 µm. As expected, the combination of a known formulation1,2 with the correct RayDrop allows the production of the desired microsphere size. **These results extend the size range of PLGA particles that can be produced efficiently with the RayDrop from** [**nanoparticles**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)**, [microspheres](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/ "microspheres"), and** [**microcapsules**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/).
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### PLGA microcapsules synthesis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### PLGA Microparticles Synthesis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### PLGA Microparticle Production Pack (Automation Pack)
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-microparticle-production-station-automation-package/)
[
### PLGA Microparticle Production Standard Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-production-station/)
[
### Liposome Production Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics for vaccine development Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-for-vaccines-research-and-development/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
## References
1. Y.R. Chavan, S.M. Tambe, D.D. Jain, S.V. Khairnar, P.D. Amin, Redefining the importance of polylactide-co-glycolide acid (PLGA) in drug delivery, Annales Pharmaceutiques Françaises, Volume 80, Issue 5, 2022, Pages 603-616;
2. Chong Li, Jiancheng Wang, Yiguang Wang, Huile Gao, Gang Wei, Yongzhuo Huang, Haijun Yu, Yong Gan, Yongjun Wang, Lin Mei, Huabing Chen, Haiyan Hu, Zhiping Zhang, Yiguang Jin, Recent progress in drug delivery, Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B, Volume 9, Issue 6, 2019, Pages 1145-1162, 2211-3835.
3. Vlachopoulos, A.; Karlioti, G.; Balla, E.; Daniilidis, V.; Kalamas, T.; Stefanidou, M.; Bikiaris, N. D.; Christodoulou, E.; Koumentakou, I.; Karavas, E.; Bikiaris, D. N. Poly(Lactic Acid)-Based Microparticles for Drug Delivery Applications: An Overview of Recent Advances. Pharmaceutics 2022, 14 (2), 359.
4. Su, Y.; Zhang, B.; Sun, R.; Liu, W.; Zhu, Q.; Zhang, X.; Wang, R.; Chen, C. PLGA-Based Biodegradable Microspheres in Drug Delivery: Recent Advances in Research and Application. Drug Delivery 2021, 28 (1), 1397–1418.
5. Dawei Ding, Qingdi Zhu, Recent advances of PLGA micro/nanoparticles for the delivery of biomacromolecular therapeutics, Materials Science and Engineering: C, Volume 92, 2018, Pages 1041-1060, 0928-4931.
6. Dewandre, A.; Rivero-Rodriguez, J.; Vitry, Y.; Sobac, B.; Scheid, B. Microfluidic Droplet Generation Based on Non-Embedded Co-Flow-Focusing Using 3D Printed Nozzle. Sci Rep 2020, 10 (1), 21616.
7. [Application note: PLGA MICROPARTICLE SYNTHESIS, Fluigent ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/ "Application note: PLGA MICROPARTICLE SYNTHESIS, Fluigent ")
8. [Application note: PLGA MICROCAPSULE SYNTHESIS, Fluigent ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/ "Application note: PLGA MICROCAPSULE SYNTHESIS, Fluigent ")
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
**Published:** December 17, 2021
**Author:**
**Content:**
We have demonstrated **the use of Aria and its related software** for the **automated delivery of different liquids for the capture and labeling of cancer cells** (breast cancer) using a [**complex microfluidic setup**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)**.** We also demonstrate how Aria can **adapt to specific protocols** via its software features, allowing for the optimization of protocols.
## Key Highlights:
- **Automated Cancer Cell Analysis:** Discover how the Aria simplifies the capture and labeling of cancer cells, specifically breast cancer, using a sophisticated microfluidic setup.
- **Tailored Protocols:** See how the Aria adapts to specific protocols through its software features, allowing for protocol optimization.
- **Download the Application Note:** Access in-depth insights and data.
[Full Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/#download)
## Understanding Metastasis and Heterogeneity of Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs)
Cancer, a leading global cause of mortality, is often fatal due to metastasis. Although it begins as a localized disease, it can become systemic before clinical symptoms arise and traditional imaging methods can detect it. Emerging evidence suggests that cancer cells enter the bloodstream long before symptoms manifest, potentially forming distant metastases.
Indeed, it has often become systemic by the time a patient becomes symptomatic and the disease is detected by currently available imaging modalities such as traditional radiography (X-ray), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), or ultrasound. There is growing evidence that cancer cells are shed from the primary tumor into the circulation prior to the presentation of clinical symptoms. These circulating tumor cells (CTCs) may finally colonize at distant sites and form metastases.
Since CTCs are mainly characterized by their morphology and immunostaining pattern, their heterogeneity is a major obstacle for CTC detection. The circulating tumor cells derived from different types of tissues significantly distinguish from each other with different size, shape, and immunophenotyping profiles. However, there is broad morphological and immunophenotypical variation within CTCs derived from the same tissue of origin.
## Automating Cancer Cell Analysis for Enhanced CTC Detection and Characterization
Traditional CTC preparation and antibody staining methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive, often requiring exposure to multiple fluids and consuming several hours. This process can involve over five consecutive solutions, demanding precision and controlled flow rates.
[**Aria**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) was designed to address these challenges and **automate cancer cell analysis** by **automating fluid supply procedures,** ensuring **accurate injection volumes** and **controlled flow rates** (ranging from 1 to 1000 µL/min). By maintaining smooth fluid control, it **prevents shear stress** from altering cell characteristics and damaging samples.
## Benefits of Aria: Precise volume control for enhanced analysis
- **Streamlined Workflow:** Achieve reproducible investigations with automated cell labeling and manipulation, ideal for drug screening and perfusion studies.
- **Precise Volume Control:** Aria’s capabilities ensure the exact amount of fluid is delivered for enhanced analysis.
### Unlocking the Potential of Aria:
Our application note walks you through a comprehensive, multi-step protocol, illustrating how Aria and its automation software simplify cell capture and detection. We use the EPHESIA microfluidic chip from Institut Curie and the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line to demonstrate the functionality and advantages of our system.
## Webinar – Automated fluid delivery for cell and tissue imaging
You wish to gain time, precision and reproducibility with your immunofluorescence assay or any other assay requiring injection of multiple solutions on your sample. Follow our webinar to discover how to interface a flow chamber (or a microfluidic chip) to our automated fluid delivery device ARIA. This will allow you to deliver up to 10 different solutions in a sequential and autonomous manner. In addition, ARIA can **be synchronized with any microscope to** launch an image acquisition cycle and to resume the perfusion protocol once the imaging cycle has been completed.
This all-in-one workflow facilitates the succession of cycles of injection/incubation time with reagents and image acquisition, a feature particularly well adapted to complex cell and tissue imaging. Here, we will present some examples of applications such as multiplexed tissue imaging, DNA-PAINT or seqFISH as well as cell capture and staining.
**Planning speech:**
Reasons & Advantages to use automated sequential fluid deliver
Demo video
Example of applications:
- Automated multiplexed tissue imaging
- Sequential fluorescence in situ hybridization (SeqFISH)
- Capture and characterization of circulating tumor cells
Q&A session
## Conclusion
Aria and its related software were used for the **automated delivery of different liquids for the capture and labelling of breast cancer cells** using a [**complex microfluidic setup**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/). This protocol included **10 different liquid injections**, surface treatment, beads injection, cells injection, capturing, and labelling in a sequential and automated manner. Thus, we have demonstrated the use of Aria for **optimal automated cancer cell analysis.**
Aria can also adapt to specific protocols by making use of its specific software features, allowing for the optimization of complex protocols.
**Aria provides key features for performing this application as it brings to the user:**
- Reduced manipulation time and timed exposure to antibodies, fluorophores, and DNA probes with automated and timed protocols
- Reduced handling for minimal contamination< or changes to cell conditions
- Higher reproducibility compared to manual methods, resulting in more reliable results
## Download the Complete Protocol
## References
1. Autebert, J. et al. 2015 High purity microfluidic sorting and analysis of circulating tumor cells: towards routine mutation detection. Lab Chip 15, 2090–2101 (2015).
2. Kim, M. Y. et al. Tumor Self-Seeding by Circulating Cancer Cells. Cell 139, 1315–1326 (2009).
3. Cabel, L. et al. Clinical potential of circulating tumour DNA in patients receiving anticancer immunotherapy. Nat. Rev. Clin. Oncol. 15, 639–650 (2018).
4. Bidard, F. C. et al. Clinical validity of circulating tumour cells in patients with me- tastatic breast cancer: A pooled analysis of individual patient data. Lancet Oncol. 15, 406–414 (2014).
5. Saias, L., Autebert, J., Malaquin, L. & Viovy, J.-L. 2011 Design, modeling and characte- rization of microfluidic architectures for high flow rate, small footprint microfluidic systems. Lab Chip 11, 822–32 (2011).
6. Bernacka-wojcik, I. 2014 Design and development of a microfluidic platform for use with colorimetric gold nanoprobe assays. (Universidade Nova de Lisboa, 2014)
- [
### WEBINAR: Enhancing Microfluidic Cell immunolabeling with Aria Technology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/microfluidic-cell-immunolabeling-webinar/)
- [
### WEBINAR- How to turn your fluorescence microscope into a spatial omics platform
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-spatial-omics-platform/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Rochester: A tissue chip platform for real-time sensing of secreted inflammatory markers using ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tissue-chip-platform/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Automated Immunofluorescence using Aria Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics High Throughput Single Cell Analysis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
**Published:** August 27, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
The protocol provides a straightforward model of vascular environments in vitro, demonstrating how organ-on-chip technology allows the study of cellular responses under dynamic flow conditions.
**Inside this application note:**
- A detailed step-by-step protocol for culturing *human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs)* in the [BeFlow device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- How to apply unidirectional, laminar flow onto the endothelial monolayer using the [**Omi™ perfusion platform**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
- Insights into flow-induced responses including **cell alignment, elongation, and proliferation**
## Role of HUVECs in Organ-on-a-chip Models
**Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs)** are an extensively used model in [**organ-on-chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) applications. They exhibit key characteristics of vascular endothelial cells, including monolayer formation, extracellular matrix production, and response to angiogenic factors (1). They effectively **mimic human vascular endothelium.** Their in-vitro use provides a valuable tool for studying vascular endothelium interactions. Organ-on-chip (OoC) technology recreates complex human organ microenvironments in vitro, using microfluidic devices to precisely control and manipulate cellular and biochemical conditions.
For discussion on key applications of HUVECs in OOAC models such as angiogenesis assays and shear stress response, **download the full application note**.
- **Vascularized** [**Kidney-on-Chip:**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/) create a vascular network within kidney-on-chip models.
- [**Blood-Brain Barrier**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/) **Models**: form part of the endothelial layer in blood-brain barrier models on chips.
- **Lung-on-Chip:** simulate the vascular compartment of lung-on-chip models.
[Download the full application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/#download)
## How do endothelial cells respond to shear stress?
[Shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/), a force generated by fluid flow, plays a crucial role in the physiology of endothelial cells, which line the interior surface of blood vessels. When applied to endothelial cell cultures, it influences various cellular processes, including **alignment**, **gene expression**, and **the production of nitric oxide**. The dynamic nature of flow conditions simulates the natural environment of blood vessels, allowing researchers to better understand endothelial cell responses in physiological and pathological states (2).
Studies have shown that appropriate shear stress can promote healthy endothelial function, whereas abnormal patterns are linked to vascular diseases. Understanding these effects is vital for developing therapeutic strategies to address cardiovascular issues.
We have written [a review explaining why shear stress is an important parameter ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)in the endothelial dynamic cell culture.
## Protocol to Form Endothelial Layer in Microfluidic Channel
### Materials
- [**Microfluidic chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)**:** Beonchip Be-flow microfluidic chip (Fig. 1) was used. The channels of the chip are coated with fibronectin protein to enhance cell adhesion. To learn more about coating densities, check PDF file for detailed protocol.
[
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
*Figure 1: Be-Flow microfluidic chip* (BeOnChip)
- **Human umbilical vein endothelial cell culture and seeding:** Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells (HUVECs) were sourced from (Lonza, Basel, Switzerland). They were cultured in Endothelial Cell Growth Medium-2 at 37 ◦C and 5% CO2 up to 7 passages (Lonza, Basel, Switzerland).
*Figure *2*: HUVECs Seeded in the Microfluidic Channel Day 0*
- **Omi setup:** The [Omi ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)is an advanced automated OOC platform designed for precise liquid flow control in organ-on-chip applications. It is highly accurate and versatile and is compatible with a wide range of microfluidic chips, tubing and connectors.
*Figure 3: Omi, automated OoC platform.*
### Endothelial cell culture under shear stress protocol
In the application note, we outline the chip preparation, setup, and maintenance of microfluidic cell culture using the Omi™ device with Beonchip’s Be-Flow chip. Key steps include cartridge and adaptor installation, fluidic circuit priming (**Loading step)**, and system sterilization using the built-in **Sterilization** protocol. Following medium loading, the confluent endothelial monolayer is connected for perfusion.
Once Omi is connected, culture conditions are maintained at 37 °C with 5% CO₂, with medium exchanges performed on days 0\*, 3, 5, and 7. Light-microscopy is used to monitor cell morphology, confluence, and alignment throughout the culture period.
\***Sampling** and **Loading** steps in the Omi Protocol allow automated medium refreshing over the weekend.
[Download the detailed protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/#download)
*Figure *4*: Omi Protocol*
*Table *1*: Set Flow Rate and Equivalent Shear Stress Values Calculated Using Fluigent Calculators*
Flow rate \[µL/min\] Shear Stress\[dyn/cm²\] 500.23 1000.462000.913001.374001.82 5002.28## Results: Impact of Flow on HUVECs Growth in the Microfluidic Channel
HUVECs cell culture under progressive shear stress was sustained for at least seven days. As shown in Fig. 5, cells maintained **healthy morphology**, **proliferated over time**, and **exhibited alignment** in the direction of flow. Only the bottom layer of the microfluidic chip was coated with fibronectin and seeded with cells. Under static conditions and at low flow rates (e.g., 10 µL/min), colonization of the top channel layer was minimal. In contrast, at a higher flow rate of 300 µL/min (1.37 dyn/cm²), **top-layer colonization was first observed on day 3 and reached confluence by day 7** (1.8 dyn/cm²).
Figure 5: Visualization of the Bottom and Top endothelial Layer on the Day 7
*Figure 6: HUVECs at Day 3 and Day 5 cultured under shear stress conditions*
## Conclusion
In conclusion, **Omi™ automated perfusion platform** demonstrated to model physiological shear stress conditions in vitro using HUVECs cultured in the Beonchip Be-Flow microfluidic device. The system successfully maintained cell viability and monolayer integrity under progressively increasing flow rates. Endothelial cells exhibited flow-induced responses, including **elongation**, **alignment in the flow direction**, and **top-layer colonization** at higher flow rates.
The **automated media exchange** features, by implementing sampling and injection steps, allowed for unattended operation over weekends or holidays. The cells retained monolayer structure supporting the platform’s suitability for long-term perfusion culture.
## Omi™ OOAC Platform for Flow Rate and Shear Rate Control
[Omi ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)is an automated platform that helps reproduce the micro physiological behavior of organs inside microfluidic chips. It is compatible with any type of chips to sustain different cell culture types or organ on chip models (Liver, Gut, Skin…).
[Discover Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Download the complete protocol
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Creating kidney organoids‑vasculature interaction model using Fluigent’s Flow-EZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies A multiplex microfluidic circuit for blood vessel-on-a-chip perfusion using Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Human Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) permeability -on-chip assessment Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
## References
1. The use of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) as an in vitro model to assess the toxicity of nanoparticles to endothelium: a review, Yi Cao et al, 2017
2. Perfusion culture of endothelial cells under shear stress on microporous membrane in a pressure-driven microphysiological system, Shinji Sugiura et al, 2023.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Alginate Microbeads Production](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Features of Fluigent’s Alginate Microbeads Production Station
### Complete system
The [alginate beads generation package ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/)contains all the necessary components to begin generating alginate droplets.
### Engineered solution
The package contains accurate pressure controllers, microfluidic chips, and valves for the highest flexibility in terms of droplet size and generation rate.
### Dedicated protocol
A protocol is available to assist you in setting up your experiments.
### Customization possible
We can adapt the package to fulfil your needs (alginate beads size, generation rate).
[**Contact Us Today**](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
### System setup
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics
008-FluoroSurfactant
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## How to Produce Mono-dispersed Alginate Beads?
### Microencapsulation Technique
Microencapsulation is a versatile technique employed across various industries, including chemicals, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and printing. This innovative process involves **packaging solid, liquid, or gaseous active ingredients** within a **protective secondary material**, safeguarding them from external environmental factors.
The applications of microencapsulation are widespread, contributing to advancements in controlled drug release, enhanced product stability, and improved efficiency in diverse manufacturing processes.
Explore the benefits and applications of microencapsulation to stay at the forefront of technological advancements in your respective industry.
[Download the Complete Protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/#download)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
### Why Choose Alginate for Microencapsulation?
When considering microencapsulation techniques, the choice of material plays a pivotal role in determining the success of the encapsulation process. Alginate, a **naturally derived polymer** extracted from seaweed, emerges as a standout option for various reasons.
**1. Natural and Sustainable**:
Alginate’s origin from seaweed underscores its natural and sustainable characteristics, aligning with the growing emphasis on eco-friendly practices in various industries.
**2. Gel Formation Expertise:**
A unique attribute of alginate is its ability to **form a gel when dissolved in water** and exposed to specific salts. This gelation reaction offers a high degree of **versatility**, allowing for the **creation of wet or dry spherical beads** with customizable properties.
**3. Visual Appeal and Functionality:**
The manipulability of the gelation process enables the formation of v**isually appealing alginate microbeads**. These beads serve various purposes, including encapsulation of diverse materials and agglomeration of powders, adding both aesthetic and functional value to the microencapsulation process.
**4. Biodegradable and Biocompatible:**
Alginate microbeads exhibit biodegradability, ensuring environmentally friendly disposal. Additionally, their biocompatibility and non-toxic nature make them **ideal candidates for applications such as drug delivery systems**.
**5. Versatile Drug Delivery:**
One of Alginate’s remarkable features is its suitability for the controlled release of both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs. This versatility positions alginate microencapsulation as a preferred choice in pharmaceutical and medical applications.
### Usual Alginate Beads Generation Methods
Several methods and techniques are potentially useful for the preparation of **polymeric microparticles** in the broad field of microencapsulation, including extrusion, the batch method or spray drying.
The preparation method will **determine the type and size of alginate** **microbeads** and **influence the ability of the interaction** among the components used in microbead formulations.
Although there are multiple methods for production, each presents numerous technical challenges, most commonly the high viscosity of the polymer fluids.
The critical design considerations of alginate microbeads are highly dependent on the applications. Among the considerations are size, size distribution, shape, mass transport properties, biocompatibility, swelling properties, solubility, and mechanical and chemical stability. The carrier qualities can be influenced by the alginate composition and concentration, the presence of impurities, the type and concentration of gelling ions and non-gelling ions, as well as the production process conditions.
The most popular way to produce monodispersed alginate beads is by using **the dripping technique.** In this method, the alginate solution is extruded through a capillary at a **low volumetric rate** and allowed to drip under gravity. Although this method has been used for many years, the formation of beads with desired size and spherical shape often requires some trial-and-error work on the liquid formulation and experimental setup (e.g., solution viscosity or surface tension, tip size, collecting distance etc.). If the conditions are not optimum, deformed alginate beads or beads with a tail could be produced, and this is a significant limitation because **in microbead production, particle size is a key parameter.**
As the reproducibility of such methods is low, there is a demand for better techniques and control of the process to produce alginate microbeads.
### Droplet-based Microfluidic for Alginate Encapsulation
[**Droplet-based microfluidics** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)offers an efficient method for improvement of this process. It is a powerful tool which allows the production of micrometric monodispersed droplets, without the disadvantage of the irregular particle sizes of the other methods.
Therefore, with microfluidics, it’s possible to have more optimal control over the production and encapsulation process, **reaching a higher monodispersity** of microbeads than the other methods (extrusion methods, batch…). In addition, **a higher reproducibility** is obtained as it is a continuous (in-line) production.
Following is a method for encapsulation of reagent into alginate microbeads with total control of bead formation. The generation is performed with the [**RayDrop**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/), a device developed and manufactured by Secoya. This droplet-based microfluidic method is used to precisely control the production of microbeads without the drawbacks of large size distribution common in other methods.
The **RayDrop is an emulsion generator** based on the alignment of two capillaries immersed in pressure containing the continuous phase that controls the generation of alginate droplets. The dispersed phase exits one of the capillaries through a 3D printed nozzle placed in front of the extraction capillary for collecting the droplets. This particular geometry solves all wettability issues that sometimes appear in other microfluidic chips.
With the combination of Secoya’s RayDrop device and Fluigent’s LineUP microfluidics pumps, Fluigent has developed an [**innovative system**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/) for the production of monodisperse alginate beads.
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Alginate Bead Generation Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/)
## Conclusion
In this application note, we have demonstrated that using our setup, we were was able to produce alginate beads with a **dispersion in bead size lower than 2%.** Microbeads of 95-160µm diameter are generated with [**standard RayDrop** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)**configuration** (Nozzle of 30µm and outlet capillary 150µm) using alginate solution at 1% in water. By using the same procedure, other alginate concentrations, including 2%, which is frequently used in biological applications, have also been tested successfully. In this last case, a more viscous solution necessitates the use of tubing with a larger internal diameter.
This set up and protocol can therefore be used to encapsulate bacteria, mammalian cells, and other reagents into alginate microbeads. We have successfully shown that using **Fluigent products enables precise control over the production of high monodispersity alginate beads**. As demonstrated, using the RayDrop with various nozzle sizes enables **greater versatility**. To target various droplet sizes, the user can easily change the capillary size.
In this application note, we showcase our capability to produce **highly uniform alginate beads with a size dispersion below 2%** using our specialized setup.
Employing the **standard RayDrop** configuration (30µm nozzle and 150µm outlet capillary) and a **1% alginate solution** **in water**, we consistently generate microbeads with diameters ranging from **95-160µm**.
Extending the versatility of our approach, we have successfully tested **varying alginate concentrations**, including the commonly used **2%** in biological applications. For the latter, the use of a **more viscous solution** requires tubing with a larger internal diameter.
This setup and protocol prove effective for **encapsulating diverse materials such as bacteria, mammalian cells, and other reagents** into alginate microbeads.
Our utilization of Fluigent and Secoya Technologies products ensures **precise control** over the production process, resulting in **high monodispersity alginate beads**. The demonstrated flexibility of the RayDrop, with its compatibility with various nozzle sizes, enhances versatility. Users can effortlessly tailor the capillary size to target different droplet sizes, offering a customizable and efficient microencapsulation solution.
## Download the complete protocol
## References
\[1\] Obeidat, W. M. (2009). Recent Patents Review in Microencapsulation of Pharmaceuticals Using the Emulsion Solvent Removal Methods, 178–192.
\[2\] Andersen, Therese & Strand, Berit & Formo, K. & Alsberg, Eben & Christensen, B.E.. (2011). Alginates as biomaterials in tissue engineering. Carbohydrate Chemistry. 37. 227-258. 10.1039/9781849732765-00227.
## Resources & Expertises
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
## Webinar Recording
- [
### Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
- [
### Webinar – Double emulsion production made easy: a reliable device
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-double-emulsion-production-device/)
- [
### Webinar – Drug encapsulation in biocompatible microparticles for drug delivery
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-drug-encapsulation/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microfluidic Droplet Production Method](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Definition of droplet microfluidics
[Droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/) is a powerful tool which consists of generating and manipulating micron sized monodispersed droplets. Microfluidic based droplet control and generation allows for:
- Highly monodispersed droplet production, unlike other batch emulsion methods using “in-line” continuous droplet production
- Single droplet manipulation as an individual pL scale biochemical reactor
- Miniaturization of production and bioanalytical devices via droplet generation
Microfluidics-based droplets have many diverse and varied applications, including particle synthesis **\[1\]** and physicochemical analysis **\[2\]**.
Good control of droplet production can also make [single-cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/) **\[3\]** or drug testing possible **\[4\]\[5\]**.
Figure 1 water in oil droplets
## How are droplets generated in microfluidics?
The droplet generation method in microfluidics is based on the use of two immiscible fluids, usually oil and an aqueous solution. The droplets are made in devices called microfluidic chips. Different physical aspects are involved in the droplet production method, depending on the design and materials of the [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/). Among all chip designs to generate droplets, three are widely used in the field of microfluidics.
A co-flow, a T-junction and Flow Focusing design **\[6\]\[7\]\[8\]\[9\]**.
### Droplet production in a co-flow design
The co-flow design for droplet production consists of two concentric capillaries with the inner capillary carrying the dispersed phase and the outer capillary carrying the continuous phase. As the dispersed phase enters the main channel, the viscous stresses created by the continuous phase stretch the interface until it breaks forming a droplet **\[7\]\[10\] \[11\]\[12\] \[13\]**
**One of the main advantages is the simple design of the co-flow.**
**Nevertheless, the droplet size and frequency remain limited in this kind of design**.
 Figure 2 co flow
### Droplet production in a T-junction design
First highlighted by Thorsen et al in 2001 **\[16\]**, this technique is the simplest and most commonly used to generate droplets in a controlled way. In a T- junction, the dispersed/internal phase is injected perpendicularly to the flow of the continuous/external phase to generate microfluidic droplets.
When the immiscible fluids arrive at the T-junction of the two channels, the dispersed phase progressively enters the main channel. The continuous phase shears at this point. The dispersed phase then forms a bend at the interface of the two fluids. The more the dispersed phase advances in the main channel, the more the elbow narrows to a break in the continuity of the interface. The break generates the detachment of a drop that continues to move in the direction of the flow of the channel. **\[17\]\[18\]\[19\]**
The advantages of this method of droplet production are the **simplicity of the design and the great knowledge of the physical phenomena involved in droplet “break-up”,** which allows for **better understanding and control** of the droplet generation process. In the T-junction design, it is very easy to control the **droplet frequency and size.** However, the frequency and size ranges remain limited by the [**chip design and materials.**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
Figure 3 T junction
### Droplet production in a flow-focusing design
As demonstrated by Anna et. al. in 2003 **\[14\]**
In a flow-focusing design, the dispersed phase is introduced directly into the main channel, while the continuous phase is injected by two branches placed perpendicularly. The dispersed phase is then pinched on both sides by the continuous phase, and a droplet is formed due to the competition between the viscous force and the surface tension at the interface between the two phases **\[15\].** One of the big differences with the T-junction design is the symmetry of the flow-focusing design.
**The advantage is that the symmetric design and physics effect allows one to have more flexibility in terms of droplet size and droplet frequency. The symmetric design allows for droplet generation which is more sensitive to the flow of the two phases. The knowledge and control of droplet “break up” phenomena remain limited.**
Figure 4 flow focusing
## Which production regime fits my needs?
In a microfluidic droplet production method, several regimes of droplet formation are observable, depending on the experimental conditions:
The “squeezing” regime leads to a plug-shaped drop flow that occupies the entire width of the channel with a length-to-width ratio greater than 1. The size of plugs obtained depends mainly on the flow rates of the dispersed and continuous phases. The rupture of these plugs is due to the pressure drop in the main channel resulting from the presence of the dispersed phase.
The “dripping” regime leads to a flow of drops of spherical shape and dimension close to the width of the channel. In this case, the viscous shear forces cause the detachment of the drops.
The jetting regime is characterized by the generation of drops far from the intersection of the two phases. The drops generated are **much smaller** than the width of the channel and are generated at a very **high frequency.**
Figure 5 Droplet production regimes
## Overview of Drop Seq application in microfluidics
Figure 6 droplet generation method with the Fluigent [Droplet Starter Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/drop-seq-package/)
DNA and its expression are at the heart of cellular mechanisms, but our knowledge of cells and their diversity remains limited and incomplete. Study is essential to understand the development, functioning and reproduction of living beings, especially since mutations are at the origin of numerous pathologies (cancer, autoimmune disease, diabetes …). The currently available methods to determine and sequence the genome do not allow us to fully understand the functioning of DNA.
Drop seq and In drop are methods / technologies that use microfluidics to tackle this issue by providing the **ability to target thousands of individual cells simultaneously** by encapsulating them in tiny droplets for parallel analysis.
## Recent advances in dPCR for microfluidic application
[**PCR**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polymerase_chain_reaction) (Polymerase chain reaction) is a well-known and widespread technique in molecular biology. It allows for **amplification** (with a multiplication factor of the order of one billion) **of a known DNA or RNA sequence.**
Currently, microfluidics has enabled a new technique which consists of **single cell and** [**PCR mixture encapsulation**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/) into microdroplets. The **high droplet generation frequency** and the **low volume** of the microfluidic system allow one to **increase the number of amplifications** possible while **reducing the cost of reagent consumption**.
Figure 7 Single cell encapsulation in droplets
[Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
### The Fluigent Droplet Production Starter Pack
Figure 8 the Fluigent Droplet Starter Pack system
The [**Fluigent Droplet generation pack**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/droplet-starter-pack/#1537434041414-04d24752-b266) provides an easy droplet production method with total control of droplet size and frequency. The droplet generation pack provides all items needed to generate droplets, including [**pressure controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/lineup-series/), the chip and the surfactant.
In this pack, Fluigent gives you:
- Pressure controllers: [**Flow EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/lineup-series/)
- Flow sensors: [**Flow Unit**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/frp-flow-rate-platform/)
- Droplet generation chip: [**EZ-Drop**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/droplet-starter-pack/#1529056105866-beb755f9-0fa4e6e9-2cf4)
- Continuous phase with surfactant: [**dSURF**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/dsurf-surfactant/)
- [**Tubing pack with reservoir**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/droplet-kit/)
## Complex emulsion production platform
The [**Complex emulsion production platform**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/) **is a platform dedicated for droplet production and complexe emulsion such as double emulsion, microcapsules…**
**This easy to use platform allow to use and control the production of droplet to to target multiple applications :**
### [Double emulsion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/ "Double emulsion")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
### [Chitosan microcapsule](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/ "Chitosan microcapsule")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
### [PLGA microcapsule](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
### [UV-polymerised microcapsule](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/ "UV-polymerised microcapsule")
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
## Related Resources
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Water in Oil Emulsions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Oil in Water Emulsions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Generating a water emulsion in an oil solution using a droplet generator chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/production-of-water-in-oil-emulsions-using-a-droplet-generator-chip/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Double Emulsion Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Alginate Microbeads Production
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
## **References**
\[1\] Jean-Christophe Galas, Denis Bartolo and Vincent Studer, « Active connectors for microfluidic drops on demand », New Journal of Physics, n°11, 075027, 2009
\[2\] M. C. Jullien, et al., “Droplet breakup in microfluidic Tjunctions at small capillary numbers”, Physics of fluids, n°21, 072001, 2009
\[3\] Macosko et al, “Highly Parallel Genome-Wide Expression Profiling of Individual Cells Using Nanoliter Droplets, n° ,pp 1202-1214, 2015
\[4\] L. Yu, M. C. W. Chen, K. C. Cheung, “Droplet-based microfluidic system for multicellular tumor spheroid formation and anticancer drug testing”, Lab Chip, n°10, pp. 2424-2432, 2010
\[5\] Shembekar et al, « Droplet-based microfluidics in drug discovery » Lab Chip, n°16, pp. 1314-1331, 2016
\[6\] Ralf Seemann et al, « Droplet based micro?uidics », 2011
\[7\] Tomasz Glawdela, Caglar Elbuken and Carolyn L. Ren, « Droplet Generation in Microfluidics », 2013
\[8\] Pingan Zhuab and Liqiu Wang, « Passive and active droplet generation with microfluidics: a review » , Lab Chip, n°17, pp. 34-75, 2017
\[9\] G F Christopher and S L Anna, « Microfluidic methods for generating continuous droplet streams », 2007
\[10\] Pingan Zhu · Xin Tang · Liqiu Wang « Droplet generation in co?flow microfluidic channels with vibration », 2016
\[11\] C. Cramer, P. Fischer, and E. J. Windhab, 2004. “Drop formation in a co–flowing ambient fluid,” *Chemical Engineering Science*, vol. 59, pp. 3045–3058
\[12\] Y. Hong and F. Wang, 2007. “Flow rate effect on droplet control in a co-flowing microfluidic device,” *Microfluidics and Nanofluidics*, vol. 3, pp. 341–346
\[13\] R. Xiong, M. Bai, and J. Chung, 2007. “Formation of bubbles in a simple co–flowing microchannel,” *Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering*, vol. 17, pp. 1002–1011,
\[14\] Shelley L. Anna, Nathalie Bontoux and Howard A. Stone, « Formation of dispersions using ‘‘?ow focusing’’ in microchannels », 2002
\[15\] A. M. Ganan-Calvo and J. M. Gordillo “Perfectly monodisperse microbubbling by capillary flow focusing,” *Physical Review Letters*, vol. 87, p. 274501, , 2001
\[16\] T. Thorsen, Richard W. Roberts, Frances H. Arnold et S.R. Quake : Dynamic pattern formation in a vesicle-generating microfluidic device. Physical Review Letters, 86(18):4163–4166, 2001
\[17\] Tomasz Glawdel • Carolyn L. Ren , « Global network design for robust operation of micro?uidic droplet generators with pressure-driven ?ow », 2012
\[18\] Evandro Piccin, Davide Ferraro, Paolo Sartori , Enrico Chiarello, Matteo Pierno, Giampaolo Mistura, « Generation of water-in-oil and oil-in-water microdroplets in polyester-toner microfluidic devices », 2014
\[19\] Qiang Liao, Shu-Zhe Li, Rong Chen, Hong Wang, Xun Zhu, Wei Zhang, and Xue-Feng He, « Coalescence with droplets caused acceleration of the liquid movement in microchannels »,2015
**Catégories de ressource:** Droplet & Particle Generation
---
### [Double Emulsion Generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## What is double emulsion generation?
Double emulsion, water-in-oil-in-water emulsions, are three-phase dispersions composed of inner aqueous droplets dispersed in larger oil droplets, which are themselves dispersed in another aqueous phase. The presence of intermediate (middle) fluid as a **protective shell or semi permeable barrier** which separates the inner aqueous phase from the outer one, makes double emulsions **suitable in a wide range of applications** including food, cosmetics, encapsulation of water-soluble therapeutic agents for targetable **drug delivery**, preparation of biodegradable microcapsules loaded with bioactive polymers, extraction of hydrocarbons, metal ions, and organic acids across a thin liquid layer mediating between the internal drops and the external continuous phase…
Conventional double emulsion production methods such as high-shear homogenizers and colloid mill are based on high shear mixing of immiscible liquids. These devices, however, suffer from poor droplet size reproducibility and are not suitable for generation of core/shell droplets. Recently, **microfluidic emulsification devices** have attracted much attention due to [**their unprecedented level of control over droplet size and morphology**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/). In microfluidic devices, droplets can be produced in **two main regimes, dripping and jetting**, depending on the balance between interfacial, viscous, inertial and gravity forces.
## How to generate monodispersed double emulsion
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
dSurf (discontinued)
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
2-SWITCH™ 3-port/2-way
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
### System setup
***Get the complete protocol and methods from the application note***
[More information in the Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/double-emulsion-appplication-note.pdf)
[Download the protocol of use](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/double-emulsion-protocol.pdf)
## Partial results: high monodispersed double emulsion
In the experiments, the different flow rates are varied to create either a double emulsion with a large shell or a core-shell double emulsion. The fluid configuration and physical properties, such as viscosity and surface tension, will have a significant impact on the maximum thickness of the shell. Similarly, the fluid configuration will have a significant impact on the production rates that may be achieved.
### Water in oil in water double emulsion
Water in dSurf© in water
### Oil in water in oil double emulsion
Mineral oil in water in mineral oil
### Partially miscible (solvent) double emulsion
Water in ethyl acetate in water
***Get the complete results from the [application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/double-emulsion-appplication-note.pdf "application note")***
## Conclusion
In this application note we have demonstrated how we can perform different type of double emulsion generation with a single device.
Precise control of the flow allows also to generate high monodispersity (**≈2% size dispersion**) double emulsion at different frequencies to target different volume production.
Examples with common fluids such as water, mineral oils, fluorocarbon oils, and solvents have been demonstrated here. This method can also be used for the production of double emulsion with specific fluids such as a polymer ([**PLGA**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/), PLA,…), hydrogel ([**Alginate**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/), [**agarose**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/),…), and others.
As a consequence, this method is a promising method for different markets and could be used in order to get rid of limitations of current technologies such as batch methods and other for different applications such as in pharma, food or cosmetic.
## More information
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
[Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/raydrop-double-emulsion_datasheet-1.pdf)
[Protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/double-emulsion-protocol.pdf)
### Tutorial on How to Produce Double Emulsion
### REPLAY Workshop – Master the double emulsions production
## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Agarose Microcapsules Synthesis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### PLGA microcapsules synthesis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [
### WEBINAR: Encapsulation of fluorescent bacteria in double emulsions for FACS sorting
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Impedance Measurement of Microbeads](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## What is Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy?
Microfluidics allows for precise monitoring and control of chemical or biological events at the microscale level. Microfluidic detection and analysis of single cells at this scale, which is equivalent to the dimensions of the biological cell, is a very interesting analytical tool that enables point-of-care and lab-on-a-chip applications (1).
To perform impedance measurements of microbeads, an electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) system is required. EIS is a label-free technique that **enables real-time, high-throughput measurements and facilitates the process of data extraction and processing** (2). Continuous high-throughput detection and classification of single cells or particles (such as beads or droplets) can be achieved using microfluidic devices with embedded microelectrodes for electrical measurements. Furthermore, impedance spectroscopy can be **used to distinguish between different types of cells,** since a biological cell’s dielectric properties are determined by its cellular features such as cell volume, content, and architecture (1).
## Why use electrical impedance spectroscopy for the impedance measurement of microbeads?
This technique has several key advantages, including fast throughput, the ability to analyze multiple parameters, and good integration with other analytical methods (e.g., optical detection).
In this application note, we present a microbead impedance measurement technique using our Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Platform (EISP), consisting of microfluidic flow controllers from Fluigent to maintain precise flow control, a chip from Micronit Microtechnologies B.V. to localize impedance measurements, and a lock-in amplifier from Zurich Instruments to perform impedance measurements. We demonstrate the system’s effectiveness by determining the size of micrometer beads and by measuring the generation rate of water-in-oil droplets.
## Impedance measurement with our EISP
**Figure 1 System setup for Impedance Measurement with EISP**
Two Fluigent Flow EZ flow controllers are connected to the EZ Drop chip for droplet generation. The tubing passes through Flow Units to monitor and regulate flow. The generated droplets flow into the Micronit Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) chip. The Zurich Instruments HF2LI Lock-in amplifier with HF2TA transimpedance current amplifier is connected to the Micronit EIS chip to measure electrical signals for characterization and monitoring. Visualization of the EZ Drop chip channels is performed with an optical microscope.
## Materials
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Easy droplet generation chip
Most simple droplet generation chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
### Particles alignement and localization
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/electronic-chip.png)
### Impedance measurements
[](https://www.zhinst.com/europe/en/lock-in-amplifiers)
## Protocols steps
### Impedance analysis of microparticles and water-in-oil droplets
*Figure 2 Schematic of the microfluidic setup for microbead injection*
A schematic diagram of the microfluidic setup is presented in the figure above. An external pressure source is connected to the [LineUp System](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) consisting of two Flow EZ flow controllers. One reservoir contains the microbead suspension to be injected (inlet solution) and the second reservoir is used to collect the solution coming out of the chip (pressurized waste). The reservoirs are connected to the EIS microfluidic chip via tubing. The microbeads pass the electrode pairs within the chip and impedance measurements are performed using the HF2LI lock-in amplifier coupled with the HF2TA current amplifier. The experiment is performed using beads of 3 µm and 5 µm diameter.
*Figure 3 Schematic of the microfluidic system used for droplet generation and injection*
Here, an external pressure source is connected to the LineUp System consisting of two Flow EZ units, which are in turn connected to two reservoirs containing water and 3M™ Novec™ 7500 with [dSurf](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/). The reservoirs are connected to the two inlets of the EZ Drop microfluidic chip via tubing. The tubing passes through Flow Units to allow for flow rate measurement. Pressure is applied to the two reservoirs: water is injected into the inner channel and the oil phase is injected into the surrounding channel of the microfluidic chip. Visualization of the chip channels is performed using an optical microscope. For the impedance analysis of microparticles, droplets are generated and flow through the outlet tubing to be injected into the EIS microfluidic chip. The droplets pass the electrode pairs within the chip, and impedance measurements are performed using the HF2LI lock-in amplifier coupled with the HF2TA current amplifier.
## Results
### Impedance measurement of microbeads
Using the same microfluidic system presented in Figure 3, microbead suspensions are injected into the EIS chip, where beads pass electrode pairs surrounding the microfluidic channel, allowing impedance measurements to be performed.
The figure above shows that the signals from the 5 μm beads (blue trace) display consistently larger amplitudes than the 3 μm beads (red trace) in both X and Y. The 5 μm beads show a peak-peak amplitude change between 75 and 120 mV, versus 20 for 30 mV for the 3 μm beads. These results correspond nicely to the difference in volume between the two beads (a factor of 4.6). The impedance spectroscopy signal can thus be used to discriminate particles or cells according to their size, making it possible to differentiate between 3 µm and 5 µm beads when using our microfluidic system.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/impedance-measurements-of-microbeads.png)*Figure 4 Signals obtained from the impedance measurement of microbeads The figure depicts the amplified current signal of beads passing the microfluidic electrode pairs measured by the HF2LI lock in amplifier at 1 MHz X and Y stand for the real and imaginary components of the measured current respectively*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/impedance-measurements-of-water-in-oil-droplets.png)*Figure 5 Signals obtained from impedance measurement of microbeads*
### Impedance measurement of water-in-oil droplets
To delve one step further, the experiment is repeated using the same microfluidic system presented in the “Protocol steps” section above. Water-in-oil droplets are injected into the EIS chip, where the droplets pass electrode pairs surrounding the microfluidic channel, allowing impedance measurements to be performed.
The impedance at 10 MHz is shown in the image at left. As each droplet crosses the electrode pair, there are distinct peaks in both the current’s amplitude and phase. The phase information shows a distinct change from resistive (fluid only) to capacitive behavior when the droplets cross the sensing region of the electrode pair. In addition, peak density in the time-domain chart provides important details on droplet generation rate and velocity. Consequently, this method may be used to count even quickly moving beads, droplets, or cells.
## Conclusion
We have demonstrated the effectiveness of our cost-effective EISP by determining the size of micrometer beads and by measuring the generation rate and velocity of water oil droplets. Combining the LineUp system with the EIS-chip and the HF2LI lock-in amplifier enables fast detection and discrimination of individual cells or particles in flow at a speed unavailable to camera-based solutions. In addition, this label-free technique can distinguish particle sizes and cell types thanks to its high sensitivity at different frequencies.
More broadly, the Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Platform offers a diverse range of uses on the microfluidic scale, including applications such as:
- Quality control in the food industry
- Flow cytometry for counting and sorting of cells or droplets, marker-free detection and protein engineering
- Blood analysis
## References
1. Panwar, J. & Roy, R. Integrated Field’s metal microelectrodes based microfluidic impedance cytometry for cell-in-droplet quantification. Microelectron. Eng. 215, 111010 (2019).
2. Zhou, Y. et al. Characterizing Deformability and Electrical Impedance of Cancer Cells in a Microfluidic Device. Anal. Chem. 90, 912–919 (2018).
3. Cahill, B. P. Optimization of an impedance sensor for droplet-based microfluidic systems. Smart Sensors, Actuators, MEMS V 8066, 80660F (2011).
### \[Webinar Replay\] Fast Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy for Characterization and Counting
## Related content
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application NotesIn this application note, we present droplet generation data obtained using one of the most widely used water in oil emulsion systems – water in decane. We demonstrate the ability of Fluigent equipment coupled with RayDrop microfluidic devices to generate high-quality emulsions with controlled droplet sizes and with high throughput.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [What is the best method for Microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast in Small Double Emulsions?](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/what-is-the-best-method-for-microencapsulation-of-bacteria-and-yeast-in-small-double-emulsions/)
**Published:** February 13, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Advantages of bacteria and yeast microencapsulation method
In recent years, the microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast has expanded due to the advantages and novel information provided by these methods. In particular, droplet microfluidics has become a popular technique for bacterial and yeast encapsulation due to its [**performance, efficiency, and precision**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/). This method has been used in various areas of microbiology, including pathogen detection and identification, antibiotic susceptibility testing, microbial physiology studies, and biotechnological applications (1).
Bacteria and Yeast encapsulation is a crucial technique in the investigation of microorganisms that play a vital role in the ecosystem and have a potent metabolic capacity for producing biopharmaceuticals and recombinant proteins (2,3).
## Double WOW emulsion for cell encapsulation
To perform this encapsulation method, [**double water-in-oil-in-waterDouble Emulsion Generation (W/O/W) emulsions** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)containing the microorganisms of interest are generated. Unlike single water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions, double emulsions provide an aqueous carrier fluid, making them compatible with most flow cytometry and cell sorting setups. They also protect sensitive biological structures from the sheath fluid, preserve the link between microorganisms and the substances they secrete, and allow for in vitro analysis of biomolecules (4).
Droplet-based microfluidic techniques, particularly for the microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast, offer superior control over droplet generation, **[producing highly stable and monodisperse double emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/ "producing highly stable and monodisperse double emulsions").** To be compatible with cell sorting and analysis devices, the droplets must be small (< 60µm) in diameter and large enough to **encapsulate the variants of interest** (5).
Therefore, in this application note, we demonstrate an easy-to-use and reliable workflow for encapsulating the yeast strain *S. Cerevisiae* CEN.PK 113-7D and the bacterial strain *L. cremoris* MG1363\_GFP into highly monodisperse double emulsions with a diameter of 42 μm, suitable for high-throughput screening and sorting. The workflow uses the Cell Encapsulation Platform, consisting of [Fluigent’s fluid handling system](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Fluigent's fluid handling system") and [Secoya’s emulsification technology, the RayDro](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "Secoya's emulsification technology, the RayDro")p.
**This application note was created in collaboration with Secoya and TU Delft. The images used are courtesy of TU Delft; Marijke Luttik, Sagarika B. Govindaraju and Rinke van Tatenhove-Pel.**
## How to encapsulate bacteria and yeast in small double emulsions
### Materials
### Yeast encapsulation
****Reagents****
**Continuous phase:** • Water + 2% Tween20
**Shell phase:** • dSurf (HFE7500 + 2% biocompatible surfactant)
**Core phase:** • S. Cerevisiae CEN.PK 113-7D was grown on SM, a chemically defined medium for Yeast.
---
### Bacterial encapsulation
****Reagents****
**Continuous phase:** • Water + 2% Tween20
**Shell phase:** • dSurf (HFE7500 + 2% biocompatible surfactant)
**Core phase:** • Lactococcus lactis subsp. cremoris MG 1363 was grown on Chemically Defined Medium for prolonged cultivation (CDMPC).
### Product
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
### Methods
- Prepare the shell and core solutions by filtering them using filters with pore sizes of 0.2 µm and 40 µm.
- Fill the appropriate reservoirs with the filtered shell and core solutions.
- Create a single emulsion of the shell solution by adjusting the flow rates of the continuous and shell phases.
- Initiate the encapsulation process by introducing the core solution into the single emulsion to form a double emulsion. This is done by adjusting the flow rate and directing the main phase valve in the reservoir towards the device used for emulsification (such as the RayDrop).
- After a few seconds, collect the encapsulated bacteria or yeast in Falcon tubes for further analysis. The double emulsions will have a protective shell surrounding the core solution, which contains the bacteria or yeast allowing for in vitro analysis.
### Visit the Cell Encapsulation Platform datasheet and User Manual to learn more
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/cell-encapsulation-platform-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cell-encapsulation-platform-users-manual/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
## Results
Once the Microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast method is complete, the generated double emulsions are visualized under a microscope to check their monodispersity and stability.
### Yeast Encapsulation in Small Double Emulsions
Figure 1 shows a successful encapsulation of yeast (S. cerevisiae CEN.PK 113-7D) in DE droplets of 42 µm in size.
Figure 1. The yeast strain S. Cerevisiae CEN.PK 113-7D encapsulated within double emulsions of 42 µm.
Courtesy of TU Delft Marijke Luttik, Sagarika B. Govindaraju and Rinke van Tatenhove-Pel.
### Bacterial Encapsulation in Small Double Emulsions
Figure 2 shows bacteria successfully encapsulated inside double emulsions with a diameter of 42µm. In both images, a high monodispersity of the droplets can be observed, as well as a homogeneous distribution of the biological material.
Figure 2. The bacterial strain L. cremoris MG1363\_GFP, encapsulated within double emulsions of 42 µm in diameter. Bright field (up); Overlay of brightfield and fluorescence (down).
*Courtesy of TU Delft Marijke Luttik, Sagarika B. Govindaraju and Rinke van Tatenhove-Pel.*
## Conclusion
In this application note, we demonstrate that the [Cell Encapsulation Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/ "Cell Encapsulation Platform") can achieve **precise droplet size control** in the **Microencapsulation of bacteria and yeast in w/o/w double emulsions**. We also show that the RayDrop is capable of creating monodisperse double emulsions with outer diameters of **less than 60 µm**, small enough for further analysis.
The yeast strain *S.Cerevisiae* CEN.PK 113-7D and the bacterial strain *L.cremoris* MG1363\_GFP were successfully encapsulated in double emulsions with a diameter of **42 micrometers.** The high monodispersity and stability are a result of Fluigent’s stable and pulse-free pumping technology and Secoya’s emulsification technology, the RayDrop. Other RayDrop configurations and nozzle dimensions are available to produce droplets of different sizes for various applications. This is due to the [RayDrop’s versatility and flexibility](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "RayDrop's versatility and flexibility"), which allows users to easily adjust the configuration and droplet range produced.
## WEBINAR: Encapsulation of fluorescent bacteria in double emulsions for FACS sorting
Optimize your[ FACS experiments by encapsulating single cells or bacteria](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/ " FACS experiments by encapsulating single cells or bacteria") inside 30µm double emulsions.
- Learn how to use our double emulsion platform to encapsulate bacteria in W/O/W DE
- Discover the DE sorting efficiency using FACS
- Have a live discussion with our experts concerning your specific needs
[More details](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Generating a water emulsion in an oil solution using a droplet generator chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/production-of-water-in-oil-emulsions-using-a-droplet-generator-chip/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Advantages of droplet-based microfluidics for water emulsions
[Droplet-based microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) offers several advantages specifically tailored to water emulsions:
- **Reduced Sample Volume:** Microfluidic devices handle small sample volumes efficiently, minimizing waste and reducing costs associated with reagents and materials.
- **High monodispersity:** This method produces water emulsions with high monodispersity, ensuring consistency and reliability in experiments and applications.
- **High Throughput:** Droplet-based systems can generate water emulsions at high throughput, facilitating rapid experimentation and scale-up processes.
- **Precise Control:** Microfluidic platforms enable precise control over droplet size, composition, and encapsulation, crucial for creating uniform water emulsions.
- **Encapsulation of Active Agents:** Microfluidic emulsification enables precise encapsulation of active agents within water droplets, facilitating controlled release and targeted delivery in applications such as drug delivery or cosmetics.
In general, applications of microfluidic droplets arise from two distinct but complementary aspects. One exploits droplets with well-defined components and structures as templates in materials science, e.g., synthesis of microcapsules, microparticles, and microfibers with applications in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and foods; another involves lab-on-a-chip applications where droplets are used as microreactors to perform chemical and biochemical reactions. (1)
## What is a water-in-oil emulsion?
Production of [oil-in-water](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/) or water-in-oil emulsions is based on the use of two immiscible phases that are referred to as the continuous phase (medium in which droplets flow) and the dispersed phase (the droplet). For generating droplets, microfluidic systems generally include a [PDMS microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/), a [fluid handling system](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/), and tubing. This system is usually connected to a computer and a microscope to visualize droplet formation.
Reliable generation of droplets with accurate control over their size and size distribution is therefore of vital importance to meet the increasingly high demands in various applications. To this end, it is critical to have a deep and systematic understanding of microfluidic droplet formation, including both passive and active techniques (2).
Fluigent develops, manufactures, and supports innovative fluid-handling solutions for a variety of applications using microfluidic droplet generation.
The objective of this application note is to **generate a water emulsion in an oil solution using the **Fluigent microfluidic system** including pressure pumps, chemicals, tubing and a Droplet Generator PDMS Chip obtained from our partner, microfluidic ChipShop.
## Materials and methods
### Reagents
**Continuous phase:** dSurf 2% diluted in 3M™ Novec™ 7500
**Dispersed phase:** Distilled water
### Material
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
### Chipshop microfluidic chip
[](https://www.microfluidic-chipshop.com/catalogue/microfluidic-chips/polymer-chips/droplet-generator-chips/droplet-generator-chips-multi-channel-design-fluidic-440/)
### How to generate water-in-oil emulsions
***Figure 1*** *Schematic of the microfluidic system used for droplet generation*
An external pressure source is connected to two [Flow EZ pressure pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) that are connected to the microfluidic [ChipShop chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/) via tubing. The tubing passes through Flow units to measure pressure and flow rate. Visualization of the chip channels is performed using an optical microscope. A LINK can connect the Flow EZ module to a PC to monitor pressure and flow rate in real-time.
## Results of the water-in-oil emulsion generation experiment
We generated **water-in-oil emulsions (W/O)** using the microfluidic system presented in Figure 1.
Two 15 mL reservoirs containing water and 2% dSurf are connected to the two inlets of the PDMS microfluidic chip via 1/32 in. PEEK tubing with an inner diameter of 254 µm.
The tubing passes through flow units allowing flow rate measurement and control. The length of the tubing from the reservoir to the microfluidic chip is 80 cm. Pressure is applied using the Flow EZs on the reservoirs containing distilled water and dSurf.
Water is injected in the inner channel and dSurf is injected in the surrounding channel of the microfluidic device. The pressure applied ranges from 100 to 300 mbar. This may vary depending on the size and frequency we want to achieve in our **water-in-oil emulsion generation experiment**. Visualization of the chip channels is performed using an optical microscope. A LINK can be connected to the Flow EZ module and a PC to monitor pressure and flow rate in real-time.
**Figure 2** Visualization of emulsion generation inside the chip channels
**Figure 3** Droplets on a glass slide observed with an optical microscope
*As seen in Figure 4, by using this range of flow rates controlled by Flow EZs with the ChipShop microfluidic droplet generator, it is possible to obtain droplets with diameters ranging from 80 µm to 160 µm, and with generation rates ranging from 50 Hz to 250 Hz.*
**Figure 4** Summary of droplet size and generation rate as a function of water and oil flow rates
## Conclusion
We have demonstrated the use of Fluigent pressure pumps combined with microfluidic ChipShop’s PDMS chip to generate a water-in-oil emulsion. The versatility of the system allows users to easily produce droplets of different diameters and at multiple generation rates. Droplets generated with this system are suitable for many applications, including those that require biocompatibility.
For more information about the microfluidic chip droplet generator, visit the ChipShop website at [www.microfluidic-chipshop.com](https://frc-word-edit.officeapps.live.com/we/www.microfluidic-chipshop.com), or contact them by e-mail at
## REFERENCES
1. Zhu, P. and Wang, L. (2017) “Passive and active droplet generation with microfluidics: A Review,” Lab on a Chip, 17(1), pp. 34–75. Available at: .
2. Tan, Y.-C., Cristini, V. and Lee, A.P. (2006) “Monodispersed microfluidic droplet generation by shear focusing microfluidic device,” Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, 114(1), pp. 350–356. Available at: .
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Fluorocarbon Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-fluorocarbon-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Oil in Water Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Water in Fluorocarbon Oil Emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-fluorocarbon-oil-emulsions/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Why is encapsulation in droplets a good alternative for compartmentalizing reagents?
[Microfluidic](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) devices have the potential to revolutionize high-throughput screening because they enable assays to be performed within liquid volumes as small as the picoliter scale. In order to conduct millions of individual small-volume reactions, it is necessary to compartmentalize reagents.
This can be achieved by fabricating microfluidic devices with nanoliter-scale chambers. However, such devices are rather complex, they are limited in the number of compartments that can be used simultaneously, and they cannot be reused without an intermediate cleaning step (1).
A much easier and more robust alternative is to encapsulate reagents in droplets of water surrounded by fluorocarbon oil. [Droplets](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) are especially useful for biological assays, as the individual picoliter-scale microvessels can contain small numbers of molecules or cells which can nevertheless be at biologically relevant concentrations (2).
## Avoiding cross-contamination between drops when using reverse fluorocarbon oil emulsions
As compared to hydrocarbon oils, water in fluorocarbon oil emulsions also result in less swelling of [polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/), a commonly used material for fabricating microfluidic channels.
Finally, fluorocarbon oils have good solubility for gases, (2) which is necessary for the viability of encapsulated cells. However, drops are prone to coalesce, so for any drop-based application, [surfactants](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/) are critical for ensuring that drops remain stable. Moreover, surfactants must ensure that biomolecules do not adsorb to the interface.
## What are the possible applications?
Potential applications can be found in organ administration of drugs and other agents. The agents to be delivered (which include surfactants, antibodies, antioxidants, steroids, nucleic acids, vasoactive agents, and cytotoxic drugs) are usually not soluble in fluorocarbons in significant amounts. Water in fluorocarbon oil emulsions allow for uniform, reproducible distribution of the agents, including to the deeper parts of the organs.
## How to generate reverse fluorocarbon oil emulsions
### Reagents
**Droplet Phase:** Water (Mili Q)
**Continuous phase:** dSurf
ReagentSupplierCatalogue numberCAS NumberWaterUltrapure 18.2 MΩ – cm–7732-18-5dSURFFluigentDR-RE-SU-12–
---
### Microfluidic Setup
The microfluidic setup was composed of:
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Digital High-speed Microscope
A microscope designed for microfluidics
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## Protocols steps
Figure 1 Schematic diagram of the fluidic setup
Figure 2 Fluigent equipment
## Droplets obtained after generating Water in Fluorocarbon Oil Emulsions
Continuous phase flowrate
(μl/min)Droplet phase flowrate
(μl/min)Droplet diameter
(μm)Production rate
(Hz)100563636100106710581001571133450568506501073818501576108725572426251075754251581898151585777*Figure 3 Droplet phase diagram*
*Figure 4 Images of water droplets in dSURF generated using Fluigent equipment and Raydrop microfluidic device*
## Conclusion
Fluigent **[pressure-based flow controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/ "pressure-based flow controller")** units and a **[Raydrop microfluidic device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/ "Raydrop microfluidic device")** were successfully used to generate high-quality, monodisperse **water in fluorocarbon oil emulsions**. The droplet size was controlled in the **range of 63 – 85 μm** by adjusting the flow rates of the continuous and dispersed phases. Peak stable droplet production rate was recorded for 71 μm droplets at 1334 Hz. The production techniques developed here can use a wide range of compartmentalization applications such as Drop-Seq and RNA-Seq.
## References
1. Griffiths AD, Tawfik DS. Miniaturising the laboratory in emulsion droplets. Trends Biotechnol. 2006 Sep;24(9):395-402. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2006.06.009. Epub 2006 Jul 14. PMID: 16843558.
2. Song H, Chen DL, Ismagilov RF. Reactions in droplets in microfluidic channels. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl. 2006 Nov 13;45(44):7336-56. doi: 10.1002/anie.200601554. PMID: 17086584; PMCID: PMC1766322.
3. Lipinski CA, Lombardo F, Dominy BW, Feeney PJ. Experimental and computational approaches to estimate solubility and permeability in drug discovery and development settings. Adv Drug Deliv Rev. 2001 Mar 1;46(1-3):3-26. doi: 10.1016/s0169-409x(00)00129-0. PMID: 11259830.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Microfluidic Spheroid Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads Using a Sacrificial Oil-Shell Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mammalian-spheroid-encapsulation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Users Testimonials - They trust Fluigent's Instruments](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidic-products-user-testimonials/)
**Published:** January 19, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Categories**
[**Flow & Pressure Management**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidic-products-user-testimonials/#flow)
[**Droplet-Based Microfluidics**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidic-products-user-testimonials/#droplet)
[**Omics**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidic-products-user-testimonials/#omics)
[**Organ-On-A-Chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidic-products-user-testimonials/#ooac)
## Flow & Pressure Control Application
### Testimonials on Flow EZ
The **Flow EZ™** is the most advanced system available for **[pressure-based flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "pressure-based flow control")**. The compact flow controller stands near the microfluidic device, allowing the user to **minimize bench space use** without the need of a PC…
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- Dr Cass Whelan – Cardiff Metropolitan University
- Kareem Al Nahas – University of Cambridge
- Hongyu Sun – DENSsolutions – Delft
- Prof. Artem Mishchenko – Université de Manchester
- Sivashankar Krishnamoorthy – Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST)
- Hongyue CUI – National University of Singapore
- Martin Knight – Queen Mary university of London
“The Fluigent microfluidics flow system has allowed us to expand our static cell models into a model of cells under flow that represents in vivo conditions more closely. Through this addition, we have been able to increase our publication output, with microfluidics at the heart of this research.
The FlowEZ allows us to manipulate flow rates quickly that allows us to introduce various activators and inhibitors to our cells, and create a system of recirculation that minimizes volume requirements, sample loss, and removes the need for users to be present for the experiment to run for hours at a time.”
**Dr Cass Whelan, Research Associate, Cardiff Metropolitan University, UK**
“Microfluidics presents various advantages to researchers who need small volumes and high throughput in answering their scientific questions. In our lab, we use microfluidic devices for the standardization and control of experimental parameters like concentration and timing. In the complex (biological) systems we are working on, the mentioned characteristics are fundamental in collecting reliable meaningful statistics, and microfluidics in combination with light microscopy offers just that. We also heavily rely on the ability to rapidly prototype devices, as we can design bespoke solutions at minimal production cost and time.
We use the pressure-based pumps from Fluigent for experiments that require swift responsiveness when manipulating fluids, and fine tuning at low flow rates. We use the Fluigent systems during the fabrication and running of the microfluidic chips. The ability to pump in air at high precision makes the Fluigent pressure-based systems ideally suited to selectively coat and functionalize micro-channels within a microfluidic network. After coating, we then fill the devices with the experimental solutions and use the pressure controls to move fluids around, open and close valves and carefully time the introduction of small molecules in the experiments.“
****Kareem Al Nahas, University of Cambridge**, UK**
“Combining the Fluigent microfluidic flow control system with DENSsolutions liquid TEM products provide a unique route to achieve the direct observation of a wide range of liquid processes with nano or even atomic-scale resolution.”
****Hongyu Sun – DENSsolutions – Delft, Netherlands****
“We are really happy with Flugent microfluidics control systems: they are very EZ to use; they are also robust and reliable. We want to highlight in particular the user-friendliness of the software (OxyGEN), and the ease with which one can implement their own third-party programs to embed Fluigent controllers to a bigger setup comprising multiple units from different manufacturers.”
**Prof. Artem Mishchenko – Université de Manchester**
“We have been using Fluigent’s M-SWITCH, amongst other accessories, including Flow EZ system, flow controllers, for the past 5 years. We are pleased with its performance, especially the programmability and automation of fluid flow that relieves the user of the need to be present next to the experiments that run for several hours. We found the software interface to be simple to use and could count on the team’s assistance for friendly recommendations and support.”
**Sivashankar Krishnamoorthy – Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST)**
“We try to understand how hypo-osmotic pressure influences cytoskeleton in molecular level via mechanobiology pathway. To confirm the robustness of our experiment results, the experiments should rely on the negative control and experimental protocol which could prevent the phenomena induced by shear stress of medium changing or other mechanical stimulation like pipetting. Fluigent pressure-based pumps with high accuracy enabled us to make a fine-tuning low flow rate system to set up our experimental protocol of medium changing and negative control experiments which convinced us of experimental results induced by osmotic shock. Furthermore, the multi-valves switch creates a clear and efficient system to switch different medium.”
**Hongyue CUI, PhD student – National University of Singapore | 2021, Li Group**
“We connect the chips to the Fluigent pump system because that allows us to deliver more complex flow environments \[…\] and visualize live on the microscope.”
Martin Knight | Professor of mechanobiology at Queen Mary university of London
---
---
### Testimonials on the Push-Pull
The **LineUp™ Push-Pull** is a [standalone vacuum pressure-based controller ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/ "standalone vacuum pressure-based controller ")with the ability to deliver **finely regulated pressure** or **vacuum** through a single outlet over the range of **-800 to +1000 mbar**. It can be used **without a PC** or controlled with **Fluigent Software Solutions**…
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
- Prof Jeroen Lammertyn – KU Leuven
- Christoph Trenzinger – Stratec
“The Fluigent LineUp series, including the new push-pull pump, enables precise and highly controlled aspiration and injection of liquids. The set-up allows us to further advance our research in both continuous flow and droplet microfluidics.”
**Prof. Jeroen Lammertyn, KU Leuven Belgium – Biosensors group.**
“The device is well designed and allows for easy control of my microfluidic chips. What I like most is that you are independent of a computer and can directly control both positive and negative pressure.”
****Christoph Trenzinger – Stratec****
---
---
### Testimonials on The MFCS Series
The **[MFCS™, or Microfluidic Flow Control System](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/ "MFCS™, or Microfluidic Flow Control System"),** is a pressure based microfluidic flow controller. Either **4 or 8 channels** are available with different pressure ranges for microfluidic experiments…
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- Dr Séverine Le Gac – University of Twente
- David Bonzon – SEED Biosciences
- Jean-Léon Maitre – Curie Institute
- Fabrice Monti – MMN Laboratory – IPGG
- Lisa Mahler – Hans-Knöll-Institut (HKI)
- Raphael Calbrix – PCBIS – ESBS
- Dr Andrew Hudson – University of Leicester
- Howard Stone and Sangwoo Shin – Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
- Ryan Sochol – Mechanical engineering department – University of California Berkeley
- Michael Ryckelynck Associate Professor – IBMC
- Andrew Ekpenyong – BIOTEChnologische Zentrum – Technischen Universität Dresden
- Dr. Valentina Paloschi – Technical University of Munich
- Dr. Rico Ka Yuen Cheung – University of Basel, Switzerland
- Matthieu Raoux, Professor, Group Leader – University of Bordeaux
“For our application, where we include mechanical stimulation in organ-on-chip models, we love all Fluigent equipment which provides us full flexibility, fast response time, and user-friendliness. Support has been amazing as well to optimize and customize set-ups.”
**Dr Séverine Le Gac – Associate Professor & Head of Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research (AMBER) – University of Twente (The Netherlands)**
“We are developing Dispencell, the solution for single-cell isolation! The Fluigent MFCS controller allowed us a quick and hassle-free development of our solution focusing on our real application! This has also been accelerated by the dedicated and professional support we got from the amazing Fluigent team”
**David Bonzon / SEED Biosciences / Renens, Switzerland**
“I have been using MFCS™-EZ pumps throughout my PhD and postdoc since 2007. When we started the lab in 2016, we equipped it with MFCS™-EZ pumps. Their ease of use and precision makes them a reliable ally for our experiments.”
**Jean-Léon Maitre – Curie Institute, France**
“The Microfluidics Laboratory of the ESPCI has used the Fluigent equipments for almost 10 years. Pressure-driven fluid handling brought a lot of flexibility and robustness in our daily experiments. The MFCS™-EZ is a strong and reliable device, able to adapt to all types of microfluidic experiment. The range complete by adding flow sensors able to transform the MFCS™-EZ into a full flow-rate piloting system with the FRP. Our laboratory trust Fluigent products, engineers, software developers as well as the entire team that makes every day a great job”
**Fabrice Monti / MMN Laboratory, IPGG**
“The compact and clever design of the Microfluidic Flow Control System (MFCS™-EZ) in combination with an individual support has greatly brought forward our work with picoliter droplets.”
**Lisa Mahler / Hans-Knöll-Institut (HKI) / Jena, Germany**
“As a team working in Droplet based microfluidic we’ve been using Syringe pumps. Involved in a new research program, we decided to switch our former equipment for a Fluigent flow rate control solution Microfluidic flow control system (MFCS™-EZ) + (FLOWELL, old Flow-Rate Platform, with Flow Rate Control Module). We observed a real improvement as this system based on the control of pressure is more responsive and stable. In our specific application microfluidic systems usually need some time to stabilize while the Fluigent solution allows a quick start or stop. It is also very flexible as it allows stopping and restarting the droplet manipulation, the change of reservoir or sample during an experiment, with almost no impact on the experiment. Besides, the pressure regulation enables to limit the maximum pressure applied to the chip and allow us to preserve the integrity of our chip especially those with long channels.”
**Raphael Calbrix / Plate-forme de Chimie Biologique Intégrative de Strasbourg (PCBIS) / Ecole supérieure de biotechnologie Strasbourg (ESBS) FRANCE**
“The ability of the MFCS combined with the Flow-Rate Control Module greatly enhanced our control of the flow rates. The setup is uncomplicated and provides an easy way to directly control the flow rates in multiple channels separately. The desired flow rates are quickly reached and without any subsequent instabilities. The also stay stable over hours without constant supervision. Additionally, it is now possible to stop flows immediately.”
**Dr Andrew Hudson / University of Leicester / Leicester, UK**
“We have found the Fluigent equipment to be very helpful to our microfluidic research on various fluid mechanics and transport problems. For example, in order to investigate diffusion of nano particles inside a microfluidic channel, we originally tried to generate a concentration gradient along a closed channel by constantly flowing solutes across one open end. We recognized the need to generate a steady flow that minimized pressure fluctuation or other perturbations, which we found inevitable with motor-driven pumps. With aid of the Fluigent Microfluidic flow control system (MFCS™-EZ) and Flow-Rate Platform (FRP), we were able to achieve a fluctuation-free, perfectly steady flow, which allowed us to generate a constant concentration along the targeted area. The new research results we have obtained were made possible by the high quality and ease of use of the Fluigent equipment.”
**Howard Stone and Sangwoo Shin / Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering / Princeton University, USA**
“I really love your system, I bought one MFCS a few months ago and I already want to buy a new one.”
**Ryan Sochol / Mechanical engineering department / University of California Berkeley, USA**
“We have bought Fluigent flow control solution (MFCS™ + FLOWELL, old Flow-Rate Platform, with Flow Rate Control Module) to replace our usual high precision syringe pumps to generate monodisperse microfluidic droplets. Fluigent solution provides a very efficient and reliable flow rate control as well as a significantly higher stability at low flow rates in comparison with syringe pump-based systems. The whole set-up including both hardware and software is very intuitive and easy to work with.”
**Michael Ryckelynck Associate Professor / Institut de Biologie Moléculaire et Cellulaire (I.B.M.C.) / UPR-9002 du CNRS, FRANCE**
“Dear All, Just to let you know, the pump arrived. I have tested it twice and it is working very well. The pressure control responds almost instantaneously and with high sensitivity. Thanks a lot.”
**Andrew E. Ekpenyong / BIOTEChnologische Zentrum / Technischen Universität Dresden, Germany**
“The setup of our working model hasn’t been trivial, and we certainly wouldn’t have succeeded without the support of Fluigent. Together with the R&D engineer, Felix Rogowitz, we made specific adjustments to our flow setup which improved stability and reproducibility of our experiments. It has been a hands-on journey with the Fluigent team, and we are very thankful for the fruitful collaboration.”
**Dr. Valentina Paloschi** **/ Department for Vascular and Endovascular Surgery Technical University of Munich**, **Germany**
“The MFCS Series from Fluigent has been a reliable addition to our analysis workflows, offering steady and accurate pressure control for liquid transfers. The system performs consistently during our experiments without unexpected fluctuations. Its straightforward integration with our existing lab setup made the transition smooth. Overall, the MFCS Series provides a practical and dependable solution for our analysis needs.”
**Dr. Rico Ka Yuen Cheung – Department of Environmental Sciences – University of Basel, Switzerland**
“We use the combination of the pump (FLPG), pressure controller (MFCS), and flow meter for organs-on-chip applications in diabetology, utilizing multielectrode array electrophysiology. As we measure signals with very low frequencies (from 0.1 Hz), our recording conditions are highly sensitive to the noise that could be induced by flow rate variations. We have published several papers using the complete Fluigent system (Perrier et al., Biosens Bioelectron 2018; Jaffredo et al., Diabetes 2021; Lalloulet et al., Lab Chip 2025) and have never encountered issues with insufficient pump pressure or the pressure controller failing to deliver equal pressure on both sides. The responsiveness of the pressure controller to flow rate changes is also excellent. Additionally, the Switchboard, which allows multiple M-switches to be connected in one place easily, and the software, which is very user-friendly, further enhance the system’s efficiency. I recommend this system.”
**Matthieu Raoux, Professor, Group Leader, Cell Biology & Biosensors, CBMN UMR CNRS 5248, University of Bordeaux**
---
## Droplet-Based Microfluidics Application
### Testimonials on The Raydrop
The **RayDrop Single or Double Emulsion Device**’s specific design allows for **multiple liquid type emulsification** within the same device without any coating needed. This allows users to cover single and [complex emulsions.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)..
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
- Dr Omar QUTACHI – De Montfort University
-
“My team has started using the Fluigent microfluidic kit for making polymer-based particles. We tried different microfluidic systems in the past but unfortunately, they were not suitable for our application. The main issue was chip blockage which rendered the process quite laborious. The RayDrop microfluidic chip from Fluigent gave us the best results with better control over the process. I have to mention the excellent technical support from Fluigent, their team visited my lab 3 times to deliver training and help to optimize the process”
**Dr Omar QUTACHI – Senior Lecturer in Pharmaceutics Health and Life Sciences – De Montfort University, The Gateway, Leicester**
---
---
### Testimonials on dSurf Surfactant
dSURF is a highly stable fluorosurfactantsuitable for the production of **highly monodispersed** and **stable** **microdroplets**. Provided at 2% in 3M™ Novec™ 7500 fluorinated oil, dSURF allows high-performance droplet formation and long-term stability even in challenging conditions such as [dPCR](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/) and [cell culture experiments.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
- Dr Thomas Henkel – Head of Microfluidic group – Leibniz IPHT
- Ya ZHOU – Postdoctoral Research Fellow – MMBM – Curie Institute
“dSURF improved our droplet stability and reliability of droplet formation under control of Fluigent systems. We performed good quality dPCR and droplet-based micro-cultivation of microbials.”
**Dr. Thomas Henkel – Head of Microfluidic group – Leibniz IPHT, Germany**
“The dSURF is super good!!! It proved compatibility with the culture of mammalian cells, with no visible toxicity as compared to control.”
**Ya ZHOU – Postdoctoral Research Fellow – Macromolecules and Microsystems in Biology and Medicine Laboratory – Institut Curie, Paris**
---
---
### Testimonials on our droplet production packages
Our [microfluidic packs](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/ "microfluidic packs") include fluidic solutions designed by a team of experts for a wide range of applications. Our pressure controllers, flow-meters, valves and software allow users to easily perform experiments with no prior experience in the microfluidics field. From droplets microfluidics to cell perfusion and organ-on-a-chip studies, Fluigent has the solution.
[See the packages](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/)
- Ca’Foscari University of Venice
“One of the research group’s focuses was the study of ovarian cancer. Leveraging Fahriye Duzagac’s (PostDoc) previous experience and Asia Saorin’s (PhD student) freshly written review on ovarian cancer biomarkers, it was a natural progression to develop a project aimed at testing amiodarone as an inhibitor of CPT1A. However, the formulation developed using microfluidics was crucial in unlocking the drug’s full potential. This advancement was thanks to Gloria Saorin (PhD student), who was working with the Fluigent system for the production of liposomes. Thanks to the microfluidic approach it was possible to optimize particles production parameters with better control over them, using smaller amounts of formulants and drug i.e. saving time, money and allowing an improvement of the sustainability of the process.”
**Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems – Ca’Foscari University of Venice**
---
## OMICS Application
### Testimonials on Aria
Meet Aria, our **automated sequential injection system** for **cellular perfusion** or **timed injection protocols**. The Aria allows users to automate delivery of **up to 10 different solutions** into a chamber or [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) following user-defined protocols.
For cellular perfusion, long-term imaging of cultured cells requires [controlled environmental conditions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)…
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- Emile Lakis – Curie Institute – IPGG
- M. Serrata – Wyss Institute
“I got to test ARIA injection system in my research project in a collaboration with Fluigent. More precisely, ARIA injection system helped me automatize the capture process and immunostaining of breast cancer cells under a very precise and controlled flow rate. The software interface is so user friendly where I was being able to follow in real-time the progression of my experiment. The amazing part is that ARIA even calculated the total amount of time required for each step and helped me avoid the waiting time in front of my setup! It made my experiment go as smoothly as possible.”
**Emile Lakis – Curie Institute – IPGG – France**
“Just wanted to say thanks again. We were able to run a 50 step Aria protocol on four separate occasions this weekend. Saved us more than a full day of work (*~*28 hours).”
**M. Serrata / Wyss Institute / Boston, Massachusetts**
---
## OOAC Application
### Testimonials on Omi
Automate cell culture experiment with [Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Omi"). Master Precise Flow Control to Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies.
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
- Arthur Salles – Université Paris Cité
« I’m thrilled to share that I’ve used Omi on numerous occasions for my cell biology experiments as part of my PhD. Omi is the simplest tool I’ve been able to use for on-chip organ recirculation and perfusion. Everything is integrated into a single device, and the sterile consumables are easy to use, which greatly reduces the risk of contamination.
Tablet and web applications allow real-time monitoring of experiments in progress, making it the perfect user-friendly tool. I’m really excited to be able to develop new biological applications with Omi! »
**Arthur Salles – PhD Student CNRS LIED – Université Paris Cité** – **France**
---
Keep innovating with the best of microfluidics.
**Catégories de ressource:** Interviews & Testimonials, Product testimonials
---
### [Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
**Published:** October 8, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
This application note is written in collaboration with University of Limoges Pharmacology and Transplantation UMR 1248.
**[Download the full application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/#download "Download the full application note")** to explore the data, detailed results, and implications for advancing pharmacology and drug–drug interaction research.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-liver-kidney-ooc-model/)
## Understanding Hepatic and Renal Interactions with OOC Technologies
Renal dysfunction following liver transplantation is frequently attributed to tacrolimus therapy, highlighting the necessity for advanced models that capture inter-organ pharmacology. The liver and kidney together govern the disposition of tacrolimus via hepatic metabolism (e.g. CYP3A4/5), biliary excretion, and renal transporter-mediated uptake/efflux (Figure 1). However, conventional in vitro and in vivo systems often lack the capacity to faithfully recapitulate organ crosstalk and dynamic drug flow.
*Figure 1****. Tacrolimus pharmacology****: liver and kidney involvement*. Illustration showing tacrolimus metabolism by hepatic CYP3A4/5 enzymes, biliary elimination (~90%), minor urinary excretion (~10%), and P-gp–mediated efflux in both liver and kidney compartments.
### Why a Liver–Kidney OOC Model Matters in Pharmacology Research
**[Organ-on-chip (OOC) technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/ "Organ-on-chip (OOC) technologies")** provide a solution that enables the control of physiological microenvironments under fluidic flow. Single-organ chips are used to model and to access specific parameters like the toxicity, [the effect of shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/), [vascular interactions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/ "vascular interactions"), [cancer](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/) treatments etc. While linked, multi-organ models allow investigation of cross-organ response. More recently, reviews emphasized the growing application of multi-organ OOC for ADME, drug-drug interactions and toxicity testing with higher translational relevance than in vivo or static models\[1\]
Kidney-specific models are focused on the reproduction of key physiological conditions of renal proximal tubule active transporter function and metabolic gradients. When combined with **liver-on-chip systems**, such integrated multi-organ models allow for the investigation of how **hepatic metabolism influences renal exposure and potential toxicity**.
## Building the Liver–Kidney Dual OOC Model: Materials and Methods
- **Cell culture:** RPTEC/TERT1 proximal tubule cells and HepaRG spheroids cultured in Be-Doubleflow and µSlide devices to model renal and hepatic compartments.
- **Omi Dual Mode:** Automated dual [recirculation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/) at 10 µL/min for the renal compartment and 20 µL/min for the hepatic compartment for 48 hours to mimic physiological perfusion.
- **mRNA quantification:** qPCR analysis to evaluate transporter and receptor expression changes.
- **Immunofluorescence:** Protein localization and function validation in HepaRG spheroids.
- **LC-MS/MS compound quantification:** Measurement of tacrolimus and its metabolites in culture media.
- **Metabolomics:** Comprehensive profiling of metabolic alterations induced by treatments.
*Figure 2.* Overview of Liver-Kidney Dual OOC setup
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Key Findings from the Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model
Tacrolimus displayed a rapid decrease in concentration within the hepatic compartment, stabilizing after approximately eight hours, consistent with active uptake and metabolism by HepaRG cells and limited renal excretion. The drug appeared later in the urinary compartment, peaking after ten hours at roughly one-tenth of the hepatic concentration, consistent with its in vivo biliary-dominant clearance. Detection of the metabolite DM-tacrolimus in both compartments confirmed efficient hepatic metabolism and partial transfer of metabolites to the renal side, demonstrating that the dual-organ system effectively reproduces key aspects of tacrolimus disposition and elimination.
At the transcript level, tacrolimus alone did not alter PXR expression, while combination with metformin produced a modest increase in both renal and hepatic cells. Transporter genes ABCB1/P-gp and ABCC4/MRP4 remained stable, whereas ABCC2/MRP2 showed mild downregulation under tacrolimus exposure.
*Figure 3.* Tacrolimus effect onto the dual-organ models. (A) Area under the curve (AUC) for tacrolimus on the top panels and DM-tacrolimus on the bottom panels in the hepatic compartment on the left and the urinary compartment on the right (n= 3 for each condition) during tacrolimus (10µM) treatment (red) and tacrolimus (10µM) + metformin (1mM) co-treatment (green) the color area represent the error bar range.
**[Download the full application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/#download "Download the full application note") to explore the complete dataset, experimental details, and insights into how dual organ-on-chip models can transform drug development and safety assessment.**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
*Fluigent Author: Anel Rakhmatullina*
## Download the complete protocol
## Related Solutions
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
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Microfluidics Case Studies Creating kidney organoids‑vasculature interaction model using Fluigent’s Flow-EZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [The Role of Microfluidics in Advanced Organoid Modeling: from Static to Dynamic ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/)
**Published:** September 9, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What are Organoid Models?
**Organoids** are small, three-dimensional (3D) multicellular structures derived from stem cells that self-organize into miniaturized, simplified versions of organs. **Organoid modeling** simulates key aspects of organ development, architecture, and function. Compared to conventional cell culture, organoids mimic organ-specific cell heterogeneity, spatial organization, and functional outputs, making them powerful tools for studying disease mechanisms, host-pathogen interactions, and personalized medicine.
Organoids have been developed for a wide range of tissues and organs, including the **brain**, **retina**, **liver**, **lung**, **gut**, **[kidney](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/ "kidney")**, **pancreas**, and various **tumors**. Each organoid type exhibits specific tissue-like features. Intestinal organoids can form crypt–villus structures, retinal organoids develop layered photoreceptor arrays, and kidney organoids produce nephron-like tubules. These models have provided insights into human biology, especially where access to human or animal tissue is limited or ethically constrained.
Despite their high biological fidelity, conventional **static organoid cultures present some limitations**. They are often embedded in extracellular matrix (ECM) gels like Matrigel or grown in suspension. This can restrict nutrient and oxygen diffusion and lead to the formation of necrotic cores in larger organoids. **This diffusion barrier limits size, longevity, and cellular maturation.** Static systems also do not replicate **dynamic physical cues**, such as fluid shear from perfusion that is essential in cell maturation and differentiation. These shortcomings hinder the modeling of vascularized tissues and complex organ-level functions, reducing the translational relevance of the systems for drug screening or disease modeling.
## Fundamentals: Microfluidics Meets Organoids
Microfluidic technology overcomes these barriers by precisely manipulating fluids at the microscale under laminar flow. Such systems provide a high level of control over the cellular microenvironment. This reproducibly enables continuous perfusion of nutrients and oxygen, the application of mechanical stimuli, and the establishment of biochemical gradients. As a result, microfluidic platforms enhance organoid viability, promote tissue maturation, and support vascularization.
Operating with small fluid volumes, microfluidics enables **real-time monitoring**, **gradient generation**, and **precise delivery of drugs and signaling molecules**. It is possible to perform high-throughput screening and single-organoid resolution in a microfluidic device, offering greater scalability and experimental control.
**Several microfluidic modalities are used in organoid research:**
**Closed-channel systems**: mimic vasculature with perfusable channels. Fig. 1 demonstrates how organoids can be perfused in the middle channel connected to the inlet and outlet, while the adjacent channel is loaded with endothelial cells and fibroblasts embedded in the hydrogel to promote the vascularization of the tumoroid.(1)
*Figure *1*: Microfluidic devices and organoids on chips. The tumoroid culture is perfused with vasculature to model angiogenesis.*
- **Open microfluidics**: enable easier access to the tissue for analysis. As shown in Fig 2, a 3D-printed microfluidic device was designed to host early neural organoids, allowing vascularization from surrounding channels seeded with hPSC-derived vascular cells. This configuration can be sealed for perfusion culture and later unsealed to facilitate analytical procedures such as flow cytometry and proteomics.(2)
**Figure *2*: (A) Stereomicroscope image of the organoid on a chip. Scale: 2mm. (B) Schematic representations of on chip angiogenesis**
- **Droplet and microbead microfluidics**: encapsulate cells in uniform droplets for rapid organoid generation. In the Fig.3 illustrates the use of microbead capsules for cell molecular analysis and high-throughput handling. (3)
***Figure *3*: Methodological developments for microbead handling and studies.***
## Transition from Static to Dynamic: Technological Implementation
### What are limitations of culturing organoids in static conditions?
Static organoid cultures are limited by size due to diffusion barriers, which is the **maximum distance over which oxygen, nutrients, and metabolites can effectively diffuse into a 3D tissue structure** (like an organoid) to support cell viability and function. Beyond this critical distance, **cells experience hypoxia or nutrient starvation**, leading to **necrotic core formation**. Usually organoids larger than 300-500µm in diameter develop necrotic core, particularly problematic in static culture, like Matrigel domes and suspensions. Furthermore, organoids lacking vasculature and mechanical cues fail to achieve physiological maturation and functional complexity.
**Table *1*. Diffusion Limits in Organoids and 3D Tissue Culture**
**Molecule** **Approximate Diffusion Limit in 3D Tissue** **Biological Implication** **Reference** **Oxygen (O₂)** ~100–200 μm Hypoxia and cell death beyond the limit (4) **Nutrients (e.g., glucose)** ~200–400 μm Energy deficit, impaired proliferation and proliferation (5) **Waste remova**~200–400 μm Accumulation of toxic byproducts can impair function. (5)
### 1. Perfusion of Organoid Models and Vascularization
Perfusion-based microfluidic platforms advance organoid culture beyond the limitations of static systems. By providing continuous, controlled fluid flow, these platforms may be used for vascularization, enhancing nutrient and oxygen delivery and applying shear stress that supports tissue maturation.
[ **Learn here more about perfusion techniques and use cases.** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/ " Learn here more about perfusion techniques and use cases. ")
A key example is where the perfusion of kidney organoids led to significantly enhanced vascularization and tissue development. Under controlled high fluid shear stress (1-4.27 mL/min), kidney organoids exhibited a fivefold increase in vascular area (PECAM1 transcripts), a tenfold increase in vessel branching, and elevated expression of endothelial genes. These outcomes surpassed those achieved under static conditions (Fig 4.). In this model organoid was immobilized in the channel and perfused in the closed channel (6)**.**
*Figure *4*: Confocal 3D image of vascular markers in whole-mount organoids cultures under static, low and high fluid shear. Scale bards =100µm.*
Another approach to organoid vascularization involves embedding perfusable components within the chip. In a vascularized kidney organoid-on-chip model, separate channels were designed for endothelial and organoid compartments. This configuration allowed endothelial cells to form functional connections with organoid vasculature, enabling molecular exchange, cell migration and structural integration(7)
**[Explore the co-culture of kidney organoids with HUVECs here.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/ "Explore the co-culture of kidney organoids with HUVECs here.")**
A broader review confirms that vascularization is essential for organoids to exceed **several hundred microns in size** and to reach advanced developmental stages. Without **vascular support**, diffusion limitations result in central necrosis, limited cellular diversity, and immature tissue architecture (8). Likewise, recent work highlights the development of “organoid-on-chip” (OOCoid) systems that incorporate perfusable vasculature and fluidic forces to support long-term viability and physiological function across various models, including lung, brain, kidney, and tumor tissues(9).
*Figure *5*: Immunofluorescent images of DAPI-MCAM-PECAM co-staining showing kidney organoids cultured on transwell and on chip, scale bars = 200 µm. (B) Statistical analysis of MCAM and PECAM expression in kidney organoids based on percentage of total area.*
### 2. Dynamic Culture of Organoids for Maturation and Differentiation
[Mechanical cues](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/) such as [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/), hydrostatic pressure, and cyclic tension are recognized as regulators of organoid development and function. Cells detect and respond to these mechanical forces through mechanotransduction pathways that influence gene expression and tissue organization (10). A well-characterized aspect of mechanotransduction involves the interaction of cells with the physical properties of the surrounding extracellular matrix (ECM), including matrix stiffness and the presence of adhesive ligands, both of which have direct effects on stem cell fate and lineage commitment.
Standardization of these properties remains challenging due to batch-to-batch variability in biological ECMs such as Matrigel, which affects both protein composition and mechanical stiffness. This variability complicates reproducibility and scalability in organoid research (11).
Beyond the matrix itself, mechanical stresses imparted by the culture environment, especially the mode and parameters of perfusion, are critical determinants of organoid maturation. Midbrain organoids cultured under continuous, controlled laminar flow exhibited enhanced differentiation into dopaminergic neurons and significantly reduced necrotic core formation compared to those grown under orbital shaking (12). This suggests that the dynamic mechanical environment is essential for achieving physiologically relevant organoid models.
*Figure *6*: Hoeschst staining of nuclei (white) pf representative human Midbrain Organoid (hMO) sections derived from three different WT NESC lines and culture shaking or fluidic conditions. Yellow dotted line indicates the area of “dead core” (scale bar = 200 μm)*
### 3. Organoids Encapsulation for High-throughput Homogeneous Culturing
Droplet microfluidics, using pressure-based control systems, enables the encapsulation of cells into uniform nanoliter-scale droplets. These systems can be used to produce organoid units, that are critical for comparative studies and drug screening. As an example, microbead-based droplet platforms permit embedding of extracellular matrix components within droplets, enhancing 3D culture fidelity and cell-matrix interactions (13).
[**Read the prostate organoids in microbeads review**.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/ "Read the prostate organoids in microbeads review.")
[**Read the application note on the encapsulation of cells in small double emulsions**.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/ "Read the application note on the encapsulation of cells in small double emulsions.")
*Figure *7*: (a) Phase image of human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSC) spheroids encapsulated in double emulsion droplets after 6 h. (b) Live/dead staining of spheroids after release from emulsion at 6 h using 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluoro-1-octanol. Live cells were labeled with calcein AM (green), and dead cells were labeled with propidium iodide (red). *(13)**
## Summary and Future Directions
The integration of controlled flow into organoid research marks a pivotal advancement in overcoming the long-standing limitations of static 3D cultures. Traditional organoid systems are constrained by diffusion barriers. This results in poorly controlled biochemical microenvironments, and the absence of biomechanical cues. Both hinder tissue maturation and scalability.
Closed-channel microfluidic platforms, droplet-based encapsulation systems, and microbead workflows, when paired with precise flow control, enable tight environmental control and fine-tuned manipulation of mechanical forces. These features are pivotal for modeling complex organ development, inducing vascularization, and guiding region-specific cell fate decisions. Mechanical stimuli such as shear stress and pressure are now proven to significantly impact organoid structure, viability, and functional differentiation, especially in brain, kidney, and vascular models.
Looking forward, future directions will focus on the integration of additional dynamic parameters, such as spatiotemporal signaling gradients, within microfluidic systems to further mimic in vivo organogenesis.
The combination of organoid-on-chip systems with real-time biosensors and modular platforms for multi-organ interfacing **(body-on-chip)** is expected to enhance the translational potential of organoids for disease modeling, drug discovery, and personalized medicine. Continued efforts in standardizing ECM materials and automating droplet microfluidics will be crucial for reproducibility and scalability in clinical and industrial applications.
## Related Products
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
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Read more
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## References
1\. Gunti S, Hoke ATK, Vu KP, London NR. Organoid and Spheroid Tumor Models: Techniques and Applications. Cancers. 2021 Jan;13(4):874.
2\. Salmon I, Grebenyuk S, Fattah ARA, Rustandi G, Pilkington T, Verfaillie C, et al. Engineering neurovascular organoids with 3D printed microfluidic chips. Lab Chip. 2022;22(8):1615–29.
3\. Laperrousaz B, Porte S, Gerbaud S, Härmä V, Kermarrec F, Hourtane V, et al. Direct transfection of clonal organoids in Matrigel microbeads: a promising approach toward organoid-based genetic screens. Nucleic Acids Res. 2018 July 6;46(12):e70.
4\. Ziółkowska-Suchanek I. Mimicking Tumor Hypoxia in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Employing Three-Dimensional In Vitro Models. Cells. 2021 Jan;10(1):141.
5\. Kim D, Kim W, Sharma H, Lee S, Park C, Park S, et al. Ultra-Tiny Gelatin Nanoparticles-Assisted 3D Stem Cell Spheroids for Engineering Tissue Regeneration. Adv Healthc Mater. n/a(n/a):2501882.
6\. Homan KA, Gupta N, Kroll KT, Kolesky DB, Skylar-Scott M, Miyoshi T, et al. Flow-enhanced vascularization and maturation of kidney organoids in vitro. Nat Methods. 2019 Mar;16(3):255–62.
7\. Bas-Cristóbal Menéndez A, Du Z, van den Bosch TPP, Othman A, Gaio N, Silvestri C, et al. Creating a kidney organoid-vasculature interaction model using a novel organ-on-chip system. Sci Rep. 2022 Nov 30;12(1):20699.
8\. Zhang S, Wan Z, Kamm RD. Vascularized organoids on a chip: strategies for engineering organoids with functional vasculature. Lab Chip. 2021 Feb 9;21(3):473–88.
9\. Wang X, Bijonowski BM, Kurniawan NA. Vascularizing Organoids to Promote Long-Term Organogenesis on a Chip. Organoids. 2023 Dec;2(4):239–55.
10\. Morena F, Armentano I, Montanucci P, Argentati C, Fortunati E, Montesano S, et al. Design of a nanocomposite substrate inducing adult stem cell assembly and progression toward an Epiblast-like or Primitive Endoderm-like phenotype via mechanotransduction. Biomaterials. 2017 Nov 1;144:211–29.
11\. Taghizadeh M, Taghizadeh A, Kim HS. Mechanobiological engineering strategies for organoid culture. APL Bioeng. 2025 July 18;9(3):031501.
12\. Berger E, Magliaro C, Paczia N, Monzel AS, Antony P, Linster CL, et al. Millifluidic culture improves human midbrain organoid vitality and differentiation. Lab Chip. 2018 Oct 9;18(20):3172–83.
13\. (PDF) One drop at a time: Toward droplet microfluidics as a versatile tool for single-cell analysis. ResearchGate \[Internet\]. \[cited 2025 Aug 8\]; Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/278401605\_One\_drop\_at\_a\_time\_Toward\_droplet\_microfluidics\_as\_a\_versatile\_tool\_for\_single-cell\_analysis
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
**Published:** October 16, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips with Fluigent’s Aria
This application note outlines how [Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) our **automated perfusion system**, in combination with the [M-Switch](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/) **11-port/10-position bidirectional valve**, facilitates parallel **neuronal cell immunofluorescence** of up to four microfluidic chips, allowing **up to three different antibodies** to be used **simultaneously**.
By automating the cell immunostaining process, users can significantly reduce the time and effort required while ensuring consistently immunolabeled cells with minimal cell damage and no antibody residue.
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
## Introduction: Microfluidics enhances the efficiency of cell immunostaining
[Microfluidic technology](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/ "Microfluidic technology") has revolutionized the field of cell biology research by providing researchers with unprecedented [precision in controlling fluid dynamics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/) at the microscale. Simultaneously, one of the most broadly accepted techniques in biology and biomedical research is immunofluorescence, which plays a pivotal role not only in deciphering protein expression but also in shedding light on the precise cellular or subcellular locations where the studied proteins are active. This versatile technique enables visualization of proteins within cells, whether they are in suspension, adherent to surfaces, in tissues, or even within 3D culture-derived spheroids.
**Highly precise**, **multiplexed**, and **dynamic cellular analyses** are achievable when combining microfluidics with cell immunostaining. However, manipulating cells within the confined dimensions of microfluidic chambers poses a unique set of challenges. When it comes to delicate neuronal cell immunofluorescence, there is an even greater need for meticulous handling to **preserve the integrity of axons and dendrites**.
The geometric constraints of these microfluidic chambers impose considerable limitations on fluid flow when it comes to perfusing the medium or changing solutions. Cells residing within these chambers are subjected to [fluidic stresses](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) that can lead to tearing or detachment of cells from their substrate.
## Overcoming the limitations of manual cell immunofluorescence
To overcome these [challenges](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/) and increase the quality and efficiency of [cell immunostaining protocols](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/) within microfluidic chips, Fluigent’s automated sequential injection system, Aria, is proposed as an alternative to manual handling. When coupled with the M-Switch, this automated sequential injection system facilitates parallel neuronal cell immunofluorescence in up to four microfluidic chips. By automating the cell immunolabeling process, users can significantly reduce the time and effort required while ensuring consistently stained cells with minimal cell damage and no antibody residue.
This application note is authored by Maxime Poinsot, a PhD student at Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone and Fluigent. The application employs standard reagents, making it accessible and practical for researchers in the field.
## Automated neuronal cell immunofluorescence protocol
### Materials
**Cells & standard immunofluorescence reagents:**
- Progenitor neuron cells from rat embryos at 17.5 days of gestation
- Fixation solution: 4% paraformaldehyde PFA in PBS and 1% sucrose in PBS
- Permeabilization solution: 0.1% triton in PBS
- Blocking solution: 0.1% triton, 5% BSA, 2% donkey serum in PBS.
- Primary antibody: Anti-MAP2 mouse in blocking solution 1/800
- Secondary antibody: Anti mouse 488
- Hoechst 1/1000 in PBS to stain the cell nuclei.
**[Aria serial output](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/ "Aria serial output"):**This system is a suitable tool for neuronal cell immunolabeling requiring very precise and gentle fluid perfusion to maintain cell integrity.
**Confocal Microscope: Nikon Spinning Disk CSU-W1:** The confocal microscope employed, a Nikon Spinning Disk CSU-W1 with a 10x objective, provided high-resolution imaging for neuron cell visualization. A 488 nm laser was used at 70% intensity with a 200 ms exposure time.
**Microfluidic chip:** The microfluidic chip (Figure 1) used for this application note is a homemade chip, fabricated using [PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) with a curing agent ratio of 1 part curing agent to 10 parts of the base silicone, specifically utilizing Sylgard 184 as the base material.
Figure 1: Illustration of the microfluidic chip used to perform progenitor neuron cell culture and cell immunostaining.
[Read the application note for more details](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/appnote_aria-neuronal-cell-immunolabeling-1.pdf)
### Automated protocol for neuronal cell immunofluorescence experiments
- **Cell culture & preparation:** After a culture period of 14 days, cells are fixed outside Aria system, in order to prevent contaminating the internal system with PFA/sucrose solution ([flow unit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/), M-Switch).
- **Neuronal cell immunolabeling using Aria:** For this application note, a typical [cell immunostaining protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/) is used (Figure 2). After cells are fixed, the microfluidic chip is loaded into Aria, and the standard steps for immunofluorescence are followed: permeabilization, blocking, staining with primary antibody and secondary antibody, nuclei staining, and final wash.
- **Imaging using microscopy:** After completing the entire protocol, the microfluidic chip is disconnected from Aria and the neuron cells are ready for imaging. This protocol allows for efficient immunostaining of up to 12 microfluidic chips in a day, with minimal user intervention.
Figure 2 Illustration of the experimental setup including Aria along with the reagents used for cell immunostaining and the microfluidic chip used for neuron cells
Figure 3 Photograph of experimental setup showing Aria M switch and Aria software
- **Aria unit preparation:** To initiate the protocol, connect the Aria unit to an external pressure source and ensure it reaches a minimum pressure of 2.2 bar. Connect Aria to your computer and place reagents in the specified reservoirs as per the software protocol. The user-friendly Aria software allows for easy calibration and custom protocol creation, offering precise control and smooth automation for neuronal cell immunofluorescence experiments to ensure accurate and consistent results while optimizing the use of Aria**.**
## Results: Very clean cell staining
Figure 4 shows progenitor neuron cells inside the microfluidic chip, stained using the Aria system. Cells are stained for microtubule-associated protein 2 via the anti-MAP2 antibody (green), and for nuclei via Hoechst dye.
As shown in the figure, Aria makes it possible to achieve very clean cell staining while preserving the very delicate neuronal cell structures, including axons and dendrites.
Figure 4 Immunofluorescence of neuron cells stained with anti MAP2 for Microtubule associated protein 2 green and with Hoechst for nuclei blue Images were acquired on a Nikon confocal microscope at 10X magnification
## Webinar – Automating Cellular Immunolabeling in Microfluidics
**What you’ll learn:**
- Introduction to Fluigent’s expertise in the field of microfluidics and Organ-on-chip
- Aria: Fluigent’s automated sequential injection system
- Success story using Aria for neuron immunolabeling
- [Have a live discussion](http://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/) with our experts and the option to discuss specific applications
- [
### WEBINAR: Enhancing Microfluidic Cell immunolabeling with Aria Technology
Watch the replay](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/microfluidic-cell-immunolabeling-webinar/)
## Conclusion & outlook
Aria significantly **enhances the quality of neuronal cell immunostaining,** eliminating the risk of manual errors and saving researchers valuable time. This innovation streamlines workflows, **improves data reliability,** and holds great potential for advancing our understanding of complex biological processes, particularly in the future study of axonal rewiring within microfluidic chips.
[Read the complete document](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/appnote_aria-neuronal-cell-immunolabeling-1.pdf)
## Related product
- [
### Platform for Spatial Omics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- [
### 11-port/10-position microfluidic valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
- [
### FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Expertises
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Automated Immunofluorescence using Aria Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Biomechanics of Perfused Kidney-on-Chip Model: Effects of Shear Stress and Pressure ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/biomechanics-of-perfused-kidney-on-chip-model/)
**Published:** March 18, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Understanding the Role of Mechanical Forces in Kidney Disease
*Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD)* affects 1 in 1,000-2,500 people worldwide, leading to kidney failure through the progressive formation of thousands of fluid-filled cysts (1)*.*The earliest stage of cyst formation involves local dilation of kidney tubules, but the mechanisms driving this process remain poorly understood. While genetic mutations in PKD1 initiate the disease, emerging evidence suggests that mechanical forces play a decisive role in determining cysts formation.
Kidney tubular cells constantly experience multiple mechanical cues:
- **flow shear stress**: generated by urine flow, the tangential forces as fluid moves across cell surfaces, typically 0.2-2 dyn/cm²
- **intraluminal pressure**: radial forces distending the tubule, ~10 mbar in the proximal nephron
- **interactions with the surrounding extracellular matrix**
These forces likely influence tubular deformation, but traditional cell culture systems cannot recreate them, and existing organ-on-chip platforms face a fundamental physics constrain *flow and pressure are inherently coupled in small tubes*. When you increase flow rate, you automatically increase pressure, making it difficult to determine which mechanical signal drives pathological changes.
To address this challenge, researchers developed a **perfused kidney-on-chip system** with integrated microfluidic pressure control, designed to decouple shear stress and pressure while recreating key aspects of the kidney microenvironment.
## A Microfluidic Kidney-on-Chip Design to Control Mechanical Constraints
The microfluidic device consists of collagen-based tubular channels embedded in a PDMS chip (Figure 1A). Using a wire-molding technique, hollow tubules were molded with 75-80 µm diameters to match the dimensions of *proximal and distal tubule* segments in vivo. In addition, they are spaced 100 µm apart to mimic the **dense packing of nephrons in the kidney**. The deformable collagen I scaffold (with tunable stiffness 55-86 kPa) allows tubules to expand and contract under mechanical stress.
Incorporated highly resistive serpentine microchannels upstream of the collagen region function as fluidic resistors, enabling a *dual-inlet configuration* that decouples pressure from flow: by controlling which inlet receives pressure. The same flow rate produces different intraluminal pressures.
- **“Pressure Offset” mode:** Applying pressure here generates ~1 dyn/cm² shear stress, but intraluminal pressure dissipates to <0.1 mbar across the resistive serpentines
- **“Set Pressure” mode:** Applying 10 mbar here produces identical shear stress (~1 dyn/cm²) but maintains physiological 10 mbar luminal pressure in the tubules
This approach enables **independent shear stress and pressure control, which are** key requirements for mechanobiology studies of ADPKD.
**Figure 1: Perfused kidney-on-a-chip model and functional analysis.**
*(A) 3D model of the kidney-on-a-chip with a close-up view of collagen microtubules.*
*(B) Intraluminal shear stress in 80 µm-wide tubules, calculated from flow rate measurements in confluent mIMCD-3 cells*.
*(C) Barrier function of mIMCD-3 and PCT tubules, showing impermeability to FITC-dextran (10 kDa and 40 kDa). Scale bar: 100 µm.*
## Pressure-Controlled Perfusion for Shear Stress Control in Kidney-on-Chip preparation
[**Shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) is the tangential force per unit area exerted by fluid flow on a surface, such as cells or extracellular matrix (ECM) within microfluidic channels. In ECM perfusion, controlling shear stress is critical to avoid structural damage (e.g., collagen collapse or delamination) while maintaining physiologically relevant conditions for cell adhesion, organization, and function.
**[Fluigent Flow EZ pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Fluigent Flow EZ pressure controllers")** were used for critical perfusions that conventional syringe pumps are insufficient: cell seeding, collagen channels coating and pressure control. The detailed protocol can be found at Methods in *Molecular Biology (2023)* (2)
### Controlled Cell Seeding
The perfused kidney-on-chip resistive serpentines cause cells to accumulate in the lower-resistance collagen channels rather than flowing through. Pressure-based control enabled at ~50 mbar:
- High-density, uniform cell deposition across all five parallel channels
- Real-time adaptation as channels filled with cells (avoiding clogging)
- Tunable seeding density by adjusting duration
### Gentle Laminin Coating
The fragile collagen scaffolds required extremely gentle perfusion to coat channels with 50 µg/mL laminin without causing channel collapse, matrix delamination, or bubble formation. Pressure control delivered uniform coating while preserving delicate 3D structures.
### Post-Seeding Channel Flushing
After cell adhesion, pressure-controlled perfusion removed non-adherent cells and created defined lumens. Gradual pressure increases (50+ mbar) cleared debris without damaging adhered cells through excessive shear stress.
**Pressure-based perfusion** was essential at this stage, providing **flow** through fragile collagen structures without causing channel collapse **or heterogeneous cell seeding** across all channels. v
## Experimental Design to Test Mechanical Hypotheses
The platform was used to test two kidney epithelial cell models, **proximal tubule (PCT)** and **collecting duct (mIMCD-3)** cells, comparing parental lines with Pkd1-deficient (Pkd1⁻/⁻) cells generated by CRISPR. Tubules were cultured under three mechanical conditions:
- Static (no flow, no pressure)
- Flow alone (Pressure Offset inlet, ~1 dyn/cm², <0.1 mbar)
- Flow + Pressure (Set Pressure inlet, ~1 dyn/cm², 10 mbar)
Additional experiments varied matrix stiffness (6 vs. 9 mg/mL collagen) to test mechanosensitivity. Tubule diameter, cell proliferation and cell morphology were quantified over 5 days.
## Mechanical Drivers of Kidney Cyst Formation
Adding 10 mbar intraluminal pressure to the flow amplified this effect. The dilation occurred in two distinct phases:
- Initial phase (Day 0-1): Both parental and Pkd1⁻/⁻ tubules showed rapid dilation of 1.2-1.5 times due to the mechanical response to pressure application
- Progressive phase (Day 1-5): Pkd1⁻/⁻ tubules continued dilating while parental tubules stabilized
- By day 5, total dilation reached 2-fold for Pkd1⁻/⁻ tubules versus 1.6-fold for controls (Figure 2C).
PCT dilation appears driven by intrinsic cellular overproliferation that mechanically pushes the tubule outward regardless of whether pressure, flow, or matrix stiffness changes.
**Figure 2: Effect of intraluminal pressure on tubule morphology in PCT and mIMCD-3 cells.**
*Representative confocal images of PCT (A, C) or mIMCD-3 (B, D) tubules cultured under two different conditions: unpressurized perfusion (A, B) and pressurized perfusion (C, D). Images were acquired on the day of confluency and at multiple time points thereafter to visualize morphological changes over time. Scale bars: 100 μm.*
The kidney-on-chip experiments revealed that **mechanical forces have different effects depending on which part of the nephron is being studied**: proximal tubules versus distal.
**PCT (proximal tubule)** cells showed a consistent pattern across all mechanical conditions tested. Under flow alone (1 dyn/cm² shear stress, negligible pressure), Pkd1⁻/⁻ PCT tubules dilated significantly 1.38 times after 5 days, while parental control cells showed no dilation (Figure 2A). This excessive dilation mirrored what the team had observed previously in static conditions that are due to the pulling forces applied by the cell at confluency.
Whereas **mIMCD-3 (collecting duct) cells** revealed different mechanical sensitivity. Under flow alone, the loss of Pkd1 was no longer sufficient to trigger tubular dilation (Figure 2B). Flow shear stress appeared to exert a protective effect, suppressing the pathological dilation that would otherwise occur.
However, adding 10 mbar intraluminal pressure to the flow completely restored excessive dilation in Pkd1⁻/⁻ collecting duct tubules (Figure 2D).
Unlike PCT cells, mIMCD-3 dilation was not driven by increased proliferation. Ki67 analysis showed no significant difference between Pkd1⁻/⁻ and parental cells at day 5 under flow+pressure conditions. Instead, the excessive dilation correlated with changes in cell shape: Pkd1⁻/⁻ cells adopted abnormally flat, squamous (flattened) morphology, with nuclei spreading farther apart (internuclear distance increased, p=0.0075)
This cell flattening meant each cell covered more surface area, effectively stretching the tubule outward without requiring more cells.
Intraluminal pressure is the decisive mechanical driver of early cyst formation in collecting ducts, the exact region where cysts preferentially initiate in ADPKD patients. Flow alone is insufficient and may even be protective; pressure is required to trigger the pathological response. the same genetic mutation (Pkd1 loss) triggers cyst formation through completely different mechanical pathways depending on nephron segment. For proximal tubule, the pathway is proliferation-dominant and mechanics-insensitive.
## Summary: Why Shear Stress Control and Pressure Matter in Kidney-on-Chip Models
This work provides the first demonstration that **pressure and flow have distinct, sometimes opposing effects on kidney tubule behavior**, which is possible to examine through independent mechanical control. The segment-specific mechanisms revealed have immediate therapeutic implications:
- Proximal tubes: Require anti-proliferative strategies; matrix-stiffening therapies insufficient
- Collecting ducts: Matrix stabilization and pressure reduction may prevent cyst initiation
- Personalized medicine: Platform can test patient-derived cells to predict segment-specific responses
*Traditional **[organ-on-chip perfusion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/ "organ-on-chip perfusion")** using syringe pumps cannot achieve these results because flow rate and pressure remain coupled.* ***Fluigent’s pressure-based*** *approach provides:*
- *Mechanical tunability: Independent control of normally coupled forces*
- *Adaptive flow: Self-regulation as resistance changes (cells deposit, channels mature)*
- *Gentle handling: Prevents collapse of delicate 3D scaffolds*
- *Long-term stability: Maintains physiological conditions over days without intervention*
- *Low-pressure precision: Critical 0.1-10 mbar range for mechanobiology*
## Related Solutions for Pressure Fow Control
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
## Related Expertises
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Creating kidney organoids‑vasculature interaction model using Fluigent’s Flow-EZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
## References
1\. Borghol AH, Bou Antoun MT, Hanna C, Salih M, Rahbari-Oskoui FF, Chebib FT. Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: an overview of recent genetic and clinical advances. Ren Fail. 47(1):2492374. doi:10.1080/0886022X.2025.2492374 PubMed PMID: 40268755; PubMed Central PMCID: PMC12020221.
2\. Lapin B, Myram S, Nguyen ML, Gropplero G, Coscoy S, Descroix S. Construction of a Multitubular Perfusable Kidney-on-Chip for the Study of Renal Diseases. In: Hewitson TD, Toussaint ND, Smith ER, editors. Kidney Research: Experimental Protocols \[Internet\]. New York, NY: Springer US; 2023 \[cited 2026 Mar 17\]. p. 85–106. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-0716-3179-9\_7 doi:10.1007/978-1-0716-3179-9\_7
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Microfluidic Cell Encapsulation for Directed Evolution of Cellulose-Producing Microorganisms](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidic-cell-encapsulation/)
**Published:** March 12, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## A paper from ETH Zürich
**Paper:** Laurent, J. M.; Jain, A.; Kan, A.; Steinacher, M.; Enrriquez Casimiro, N.; Stavrakis, S.; deMello, A. J.; Studart, A. R. Directed Evolution of Material-Producing Microorganisms. *Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.* **2024**, *121* (31), e2403585121. .
This study was conducted at [ETH Zürich](https://ethz.ch/en.html) through a collaboration between the [Department of Materials (Complex Materials Group)](https://complex.mat.ethz.ch/) and the [Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences (Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering)](https://chab.ethz.ch/en/). Led by Prof. André R. Studart and Prof. Andrew J. deMello, the teams combined expertise in microfluidics, self-assembly, and bioengineering to design living materials capable of growth, self-organization, and adaptation inspired by natural biological systems.
## The Need for High-Throughput Engineering in Living Material Production
### Cellulose as a Target for Biofabrication
Bacterial cellulose is a renewable biopolymer used in tissue engineering, bio-textiles, regenerative medicine, cosmetics, biodegradable packaging, and flexible electronics (Figure 1).1 Its high purity, mechanical strength, and excellent biocompatibility make it a particularly attractive material across these application areas.
Figure 1 Cellulose and cellulose derivatives sources key characteristics and application in various fields2
### Limits of Traditional Engineering Approaches
**Natural cellulose production levels are insufficient for industrial-scale applications**. Because **cellulose biosynthesis** relies on interconnected metabolic and regulatory networks, conventional generic engineering strategies, such as promoter modification, gene overexpression, pathway knockouts, or manipulation of c-di-GMP signaling, often have limited impact on improving productivity. 3–6
Improving cellulose-producing microorganisms therefore requires methods capable of [**single-cell**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/) **compartmentalization**, **quantitative phenotype readout**, and [**high-throughput screening**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/high-throughput-cell-dna-screening-using-digital-pcr/) of large variant libraries.
[Microfluidic cell encapsulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/) meets these criteria by isolating individual cells in droplets, enabling controlled growth conditions and precise characterization of each variant.1,7
## Study Objective: Building a Microfluidic Cell Encapsulation Platform for Rapid Microbial Evolution
The goal of the study was to develop a microfluidic cell encapsulation platform for rapid evolution of cellulose-producing microorganisms by:
- Generating diverse microbial variant libraries and encapsulating single cells while preserving genotype-phenotype linkage
- Providing stable droplet growth conditions for reliable phenotype development
- Quantifying cellulose production through fluorescence-based readouts and enriching high-producing variants using [fluorescence-activated](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/) droplet sorting (FADS)
This approach establishes a scalable workflow for screening large microbial populations and identifying improved cellulose-producing strains for living-material applications (Figure 2).
Figure 2 Workflow for the directed evolution of cellulose producing microorganisms
## Methodology: High-Throughput Microfluidic Cell Encapsulation Workflow
### Step 1: Generation of a diverse mutant library
A mutant library of approximately 40,000 variants was created using **UV-C mutagenesis** to introduce random genomic modifications (Figure 3.A).
### Step 2: Single-cell droplet encapsulation
A step-emulsification microfluidic chip was used to generate **[highly monodisperse droplets](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/ "highly monodisperse droplets"),** with a Poisson loading parameter of λ ≈ 0.1 cells per droplet (Figure 3.D). Each droplet contained a single *Komagataeibacter sucrofermentans* cell, a cellulose-inducing growth medium, and a cellulose-binding fluorescent dye. **[RAN Biotechnologies surfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics ")** ensured reproducible and stable droplets, which is essential for reliable microfluidic cell encapsulation and accurate phenotype detection.
[
### High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
Figure 3 Mutagenesis single cell encapsulation and bacterial cellulose quantification in droplets
### Step 3: Off-chip droplet incubation
Droplets were incubated off-chip in a horizontal monolayer configuration, guaranteeing uniform oxygenation, consistent nutrient exposure, and reproducible cellulose production (Figure 3.F). This setup allowed each variant to express its phenotype independently, without cross-contamination.
### Step 4: High-throughput phenotyping using FADS
Following incubation, droplets were reinjected into the sorting device using **[Fluigent Flow EZTM](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Fluigent Flow EZTM")** pressure controller. Precise pressure-driven flow enabled stable reinjection and accurate droplet spacing through the fluorescence detection region.
Droplets exceeding a predefined fluorescence threshold were deflected into a collection outlet using dielectrophoresis (Figure 4). Sorted droplets were broken to recover high-performing strains.
Figure 4 Fluorescence activated droplet sorting FADS and recovery of evolved cellulose producing strains
## Results: Reliable High-Speed Sorting
Figure 5 Cellulose production levels of evolved strains compared with the wild type
### Discovery of High-Performance Cellulose Producers Through Ultra-Rare Variant Isolation
Among the 40,000 screened variants, only four mutants consistently produced **50-70% more cellulose** than the wild-type strain (Figure 5). These improved strains represented only **0.12% of the total library**, showing how the system can reliably isolate very rare but valuable variants.
### Identification of a Novel Genetic Determinant of Cellulose Biosynthesis
Whole-genome sequencing revealed that all top-performing strains shared a **12-bp deletion in the *clpA* gene**. This mutation uncovered a previously unrecognized regulatory link between *clpA*-mediated protein turnover and enhanced cellulose biosynthesis (Figure 6).
Enhanced cellulose production was maintained over multiple culture cycles, confirming the robustness and long-term stability of the evolved strains.
Figure 6 Genomic analysis and validation of the link between clpA mutation and enhanced cellulose production
## Conclusion
This study demonstrates how a high-throughput microfluidic platform combining step-emulsification, **RAN Biotechnologies surfactant** stabilization, and [Fluigent’s precise pressure-control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Fluigent’s precise pressure-control") can accelerate the directed evolution of material-producing microorganisms.
By **enabling stable droplet generation, long-term incubation, and reliable high-speed sorting**, the platform supports rapid microbial evolution, uncovers new regulatory mechanisms, and facilitates the development of high-performance cellulose-producing strains for living-material applications.
As demand for sustainable and biofabricated materials continues to grow, microfluidic cell encapsulation is emerging as a key enabling technology for engineering the next generation of adaptative, high-performance living materials.
[Explore the full study](https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2403585121)
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Double Emulsion Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes High-throughput cell DNA screening using digital PCR Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/high-throughput-cell-dna-screening-using-digital-pcr/)
## Webinar Replay of Interest
- [
### WEBINAR: Encapsulation of fluorescent bacteria in double emulsions for FACS sorting
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
- [
### WEBINAR: Single cell encapsulations compatible with FACS sorting, API encapsulations in biocompatible polymers, and more
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-cell-encapsulations/)
- [
### Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
- [
### Webinar | Advancing Microfluidics through Automation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-microfluidics-through-automation/)
## Related Solutions
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### High-Performance Surfactant for Droplet Microfluidics
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## References
(1) Marinho, E. Cellulose: A Comprehensive Review of Its Properties and Applications. *Sustain. Chem. Environ.* **2025**, *11*, 100283. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scenv.2025.100283.
(2) Yekta, R.; Abedi-Firoozjah, R.; Azimi Salim, S.; Khezerlou, A.; Abdolmaleki, K. Application of Cellulose and Cellulose Derivatives in Smart/Intelligent Bio-Based Food Packaging. *Cellulose* **2023**, *30* (16), 9925–9953. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10570-023-05520-1.
(3) Jin, L.-Q.; Jin, W.-R.; Ma, Z.-C.; Shen, Q.; Cai, X.; Liu, Z.-Q.; Zheng, Y.-G. Promoter Engineering Strategies for the Overproduction of Valuable Metabolites in Microbes. *Appl. Microbiol. Biotechnol.* **2019**, *103* (21–22), 8725–8736. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00253-019-10172-y.
(4) Florea, M.; Hagemann, H.; Santosa, G.; Abbott, J.; Micklem, C. N.; Spencer-Milnes, X.; de Arroyo Garcia, L.; Paschou, D.; Lazenbatt, C.; Kong, D.; Chughtai, H.; Jensen, K.; Freemont, P. S.; Kitney, R.; Reeve, B.; Ellis, T. Engineering Control of Bacterial Cellulose Production Using a Genetic Toolkit and a New Cellulose-Producing Strain. *Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.* **2016**, *113* (24), E3431–E3440. https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.1522985113.
(5) Desvaux, M.; Guedon, E.; Petitdemange, H. Carbon Flux Distribution and Kinetics of Cellulose Fermentation in Steady-State Continuous Cultures of Clostridium Cellulolyticum on a Chemically Defined Medium. *J. Bacteriol.* **2001**, *183* (1), 119–130. https://doi.org/10.1128/JB.183.1.119-130.2001.
(6) M, M.; T, H.; A, D.; Vs, C.; Át, K. Laboratory Evolution of Microbial Interactions in Bacterial Biofilms. *J. Bacteriol.* **2016**, *198* (19). https://doi.org/10.1128/JB.01018-15.
(7) Dejene, B. K. Natural Nanofibers for Textile Applications: A Review on Electrospinning of Cellulose, Chitin, and Silk for Sustainable Functional Materials. *Int. J. Biol. Macromol.* **2025**, *321*, 146597. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2025.146597.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Introduction to digital PCR
### What is digital PCR?
Digital droplet-based assays offer promising opportunities for the **absolute quantitation of low concentration analytic species.** During the last decade **digital-PCR assay** (dPCR) became one of the most prominent assays for this class of analytical methods.
For performing the assay, the sample volume is **split into multiple droplets** in such a way that **each droplet contains either one or none of the target DNA molecules**.
Due to the small droplet volume, the PCR reaction runs **very efficiently** even from a single molecule.
### How does digital PCR work?
During amplification, a **fluorescent dye** is formed or activated. The positive droplets become fluorescent. Absolute quantitation of the number of target molecules is **simplified to the count of fluorescence active droplets** in the generated droplet collection. Not regarding the simplicity of the approach, its technical implementation is challenged by **stabilizing the droplets** collected over the complete assay avoiding unwanted droplet coalescence or crosstalk between the droplet ingredients. This has been solved by utilizing **perfluorinated mineral oils** as the carrier oil in combination with **advanced perfluorinated surfactants**, which **stabilize the emulsion** and avoid crosstalk and DNA exchange between the individual droplets.
In this application note we are investigating the usability of the commercially available surfactant [**dSurf** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)for an exemplary [**digital PCR assay.**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/digital-pcr/)
## What are the materials and equipment for digital PCR experimentation?
The [Fluigent droplet kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/droplet-kit-chips-tubing-and-fittings/ "Droplet kit (chips, tubing and fittings)") was employed for the experiments, utilizing the [Fluigent EZ Drop chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/ "Easy droplet generation chip") with three microfluidic droplet generators per chip. Interconnection between the chip and fluid reservoirs was achieved using 2m PEEK 1/32″ tubing with an outer diameter of .010″ and two sleeves with 1/16″ outer diameter, .033″ inner diameter, and 1.6″ length. More details and dimensions of the droplet generation chip can be found on the Fluigent website.
Pressure-driven flow control was managed through the “Fluigent-MFCSTM-EZ” [pressure control system](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/ "Microfluidic Flow Control System"). DNA amplification took place using the Eppendorf Mastercycler Gradient thermocycler. For optical readout, droplets were loaded into a disposable 10 µl cell counting chamber called “Countess™” without a grid, manufactured by EVETM NanoEnTek.
Image acquisition involved a standard fluorescence microscope (Axiovert-MAT-M, Carl Zeiss AG, Germany) equipped with a Zeiss Fluar 10x magnification NA 0.5 objective, HBO 100 light source, FITC-filter set, and an Andor-Neo sCMOS camera (Oxford Instruments, Abingdon, UK) with a 5-second exposure time for fluorescence images.
Microfluidic workstation utilized for droplet generation with quality monitoring by video microscopy
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Easy droplet generation chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
## What is the method of dpcr?
Droplets were generated at a working pressure of 240 mbar for the dSurf and 140 mbar for the PCR-Mix. The chip was connected with PEEK 1/32” tubing OD x .010” and 2x sleeves 1/16” OD x.033” ID x 1.6”, tubing length: 200 mm. Generated droplets were collected into a 0.2 ml PCR vial. Amplification was performed in a conventional thermocycler with the following settings:
To acquire images, the amplified droplets were transferred to a cell counting chamber for brightfield and fluorescence imaging. The droplets needed to be arranged as a monolayer within the chamber for effective readout. This was achieved by loading 10 µl of the droplet suspension into a pipette tip and allowing the droplets to rise. The entire volume was then loaded into the chamber, starting with the pure fraction of the continuous phase to ensure the droplets were injected into the partially pre-filled chamber. After loading, the rear slit of the chamber was sealed with adhesive tape to minimize evaporation and prevent droplet motion or rearrangement during the readout process.
## dPCR assay data analysis
The parameter settings of the Fluigent-MFCSTM-EZ pressure control system, as described in the Materials and Methods section, were used to generate droplets for dPCR samples. Figure 2 illustrates the observed characteristics of the generated surfactant droplets, including the droplet generation regime, size, and frequency. The average droplet size was measured to be 70 µm, with a volume of 180 pL.
*Droplet generating process The droplet generator operating in transition mode between dripping and jetting No significant differences in the mode of operation as in the droplet sizes and size uniformity can be recognized The middle circle above the droplet channel has a diameter of 50µm*
*Evaluation procedure for the dPCR Starting point are brightfield and fluorescence images of the generated droplets The processing is done by a self developed software to detect and evaluate the intensity of the droplets The parameters for detecting the droplet contours are defined in advance Only droplets of a valid size are included in the result*
## Conclusion
The experiments have shown that the dSurf surfactant is suitable for scientific as well as routine digital PCR applications. The generated droplets were **homogeneous in shape and size**. **Superior** droplet **stability** of the dSurf surfactant system was observed during the amplification process. A few droplets have dissipated during the experiments, but this can be neglected.
The **reproducibility** of the experiments was also confirmed. Droplet generation with identical parameters leads to **identical droplet** **size and quality.** Summarily, dSurf can be employed as a surfactant composition for digital droplet-based assays, and therefore, for digital PCR assay.
## References
1\. Pohl, G. and I.-M. Shih, Principle and applications of digital PCR. Expert review of molecular diagnostics, 2004. 4(1): p. 41-47.
2\. Huggett, J.F., S. Cowen, and C.A. Foy, Considerations for digital PCR as an accurate molecular diagnostic tool. Clinical chemistry, 2015. 61(1): p. 79-88.
3\. Quan, P.-L., M. Sauzade, and E. Brouzes, dPCR: a technology review. Sensors, 2018. 18(4): p. 1271.
## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Using dSurf for High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry (LuMIn)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/droplet-micro-thermometry-lumin/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Microbiome culture in droplet using dsurf surfactant
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microbiome-culture-in-droplet-using-dsurf-surfactant/)
- [version="1.0"?
Expertise videos### MICROFLUIDICS in DROPLET DIGITAL PCR
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/fluigent-expertise/microfluidics-in-droplet-digital-pcr/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### High-throughput cell DNA screening using digital PCR
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/high-throughput-cell-dna-screening-using-digital-pcr/)
- [
### Droplet Digital PCR (ddPCR)
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Introduction to E. Coli Culture in Droplets
### Traditional and new methods for cell culture
Petri plates or culture flasks have traditionally been used in laboratory cell cultivation as part of in-vitro procedures. In culture flasks, cells are grown in a homogenous liquid medium, while Petri dishes allow the growth of colonies on a solid or semi-solid substrate surface. However, these two approaches have limitations, such as the **challenge of compartmentalizing clones** and **single cells.**
To overcome these limitations related to culture in Petri dishes or culture flasks, **droplet culture of microorganisms**, which allows **homogeneous growth of cells**, is proposed as an alternative method. In this case, **E. Coli culture in droplets** will be performed. The ability to miniaturize microscale droplets offers great advantages due to their higher surface-to-volume ratio. This feature confers **faster mixing** and **heat transfer**, which accelerates reaction times. In addition, droplets are isolated monodisperse chambers that act as reproducible microreactors that can be created with high throughput.
### Microfluidics to ensure good monodispersity and stability
However, to be able to [use droplets](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/) for [pharmaceutical and biomedical applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/), it is necessary to achieve and guarantee a **high degree of monodispersity** and **stability** with such a method. Typically, single emulsions are produced in batches by a two-stage emulsification process (mixing in bulk), resulting in a highly polydisperse population with low encapsulation efficiency.
The [use of microfluidics for droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) can be a very useful tool to overcome the problems of these conventional methods. In microfluidics, highly reproducible, continuous and reproducible droplet production requires an [**efficient microchip**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) , a stable fluid handling system (consisting of pulseless [**pressure-based controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/)) and an adapted surfactant.
### Why use surfactants in droplet-based microfluidics ?
[Surfactants](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) are an essential part of droplet-based microfluidic technology. They are involved in the **stabilization of droplet interfaces**, in the biocompatibility of the system, and in the process of molecular exchange between droplets. Typically, on encapsulation mechanisms, mineral oils have been the most commonly used with cells. They are therefore limited to the applications such as [PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/digital-pcr/) where the objects of interest (the DNA or RNA fragments) do not exchange between the droplets.
For E. Coli culture in droplets, p**erfluorinated oils** have shown several advantages compared to other carrier fluids such as mineral oils. Their **low viscosity** allows **easy handling** in microfluidic systems without need of high-pressure pumps. Though perfluorinated oils have advantages for applications like cell culture and [dPCR](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/ "Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay "), it is still difficult to develop a suitable and effective surfactant for droplet stabilization in these oils. To date, most commercially available surfactants present limitations.
The objective of this study is to highlight the biocompatibility of the new surfactant dSURF by performing E. Coli culture in droplets using [Fluigent’s pumping technology](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/).
## How to perform an E. coli culture
### Reagents:
#### Continuous phase Reagents:
Novec HFE-7500 (Sigma Aldrich) containing 0.5% or 3% dSURF
#### Dispersed phase Reagents:
500µl suspension of *E. coli ECJW922* in TB (Terrific broth) medium with OD600 (optical density) of 0.005 (5 x 106 CFU/ml) or 0.01 (10 x 107 CFU/ml), which means cell concentration in the first suspension was 5 x 106 CFU/ml and in second suspension 10 x 107 CFU/ml. CFU – colony forming unit.
### How to generate droplet for encapsulation purpose
E. Coli culture in droplets was performed with customer designed PDMS chip, but we would recommend using the [EZ drop chip.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
To generate droplets, fluid-handling devices such as [**pressure controller, syringe pump, or peristaltic pump** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)can be used with a flow-focusing PDMS chip.
Pressure controllers such as [**Fluigent LineUPTM series** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)or **MFCSTM-EZ** are best suited to optimize [droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) performance, improving Flow rate stability and droplet monodispersity. In this case, E Coli suspension and dOIL with dSURF are loaded into vials.
A pressure is applied to the reservoir to ensure a continuous and pulseless injection of both phases into the chip. The determined flow rate is monitored and controled by using [**OxyGEN software**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/) or local control on the [**Flow EZTM**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) to achieve the desired droplet size and frequency.
### Material for Escherichia coli culture in droplets
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
dSurf (discontinued)
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
[
### Easy droplet generation chip
Most simple droplet generation chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
## Observation of the droplets produced
****Test with *E. coli* cells at OD= 0.005 and 0.5% surfactant concentration, incubation at 37 °C:****
***Legend A*** *Images of droplets under bright field after 4 h incubation **B** Image of droplets under bright field after 20h incubation **C** Images of droplets under dark field after 4 h incubation **D** Images of droplets under dark field after 20 h incubatio*
Stable, monodispersed droplet emulsions were observed on both images. High numbers of *E. coli* cells were observed in almost half of the droplets, particularly in 46±0.8 % of droplets, which is in a good agreement with the theoretical number of 54% calculated from the Poisson distribution of cells over 33.6 µm droplets (160 pL) at a given concentration of 5 x 106 CFU/ml.
The choice to use a low E. coli concentration and fractional droplet occupation with cells, as well as small variations in the experimental process, such as general pipetting imprecision, may help to explain the disparity between theoretical and experimental numbers.
## Conclusion
The growth of the E. Coli culture in droplets after 20 h of incubation in all above-described cases has highlighted that dSURF is biocompatible at concentrations ranging from 0.5% to 3%. For routine applications and cost reduction, 0.5% concentration of dSURF can be used. It is also suitable for experiments starting with single and multiple microbial cells per droplet.
The emulsion stability after 20 h shows the good droplet stabilization which will be of use for longer duration experiments.**This study has been made in collaboration with Dr Oksana Shvydkiv and her lab from** [**Leibniz Institute for Natural Product Research and Infection Biology**](https://www.leibniz-hki.de/en/institut.html)**.**
## Expertises & Resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging. Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes What is the best method for Microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast in Small Double Emulsions? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/what-is-the-best-method-for-microencapsulation-of-bacteria-and-yeast-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microbiome culture in droplet using dsurf surfactant ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microbiome-culture-in-droplet-using-dsurf-surfactant/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Introduction
### Why use a surfactant?
[Surfactants](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) are used for various reasons in many industries and applications. Firstly, they lower the surface tension of liquids, allowing better wetting, spreading, and penetration of substances. They can act as dispersants, helping to evenly distribute particles or droplets in solutions.
Additionally, surfactants can modify the interfacial properties between immiscible substances, such as oil and water, enabling processes like emulsification and enhancing oil recovery. Overall, surfactants play a crucial role in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of various industrial and consumer products such as microbiome in droplet experiments.
### What is a microbial surfactant?
Microbial surfactants, also known as biosurfactants, are compounds produced by microorganisms that lower surface tension between substances. They possess hydrophilic and hydrophobic regions, enabling interaction with water and non-water substances. These surfactants have diverse compositions, including glycolipids, lipopeptides, phospholipids, and polymeric surfactants.
They offer advantages such as surface tension reduction, foaming ability, environmental compatibility, enhanced oil recovery, antimicrobial properties, and bioactivity. Their applications span [agriculture, food processing](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/), [pharmaceuticals](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/), [cosmetics,](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/cosmetics/) bioremediation, and more. Microbial surfactants are an active area of research in biotechnology due to their unique properties and potential uses.
### What are the advantages of biosurfactants over chemical surfactants?
Biosurfactants, or microbial surfactants, offer several advantages over chemical surfactants. They are environmentally friendly and derived from renewable resources, ensuring sustainability. Biosurfactants are non-toxic, posing minimal risks to humans and the environment.
They exhibit higher biodegradability, easily breaking down into simpler compounds. Their versatility allows customization for specific applications. Biosurfactants maintain functionality under extreme conditions, making them suitable for various industries. They synergize with microorganisms, enhancing their survival and activity.
Additionally, biosurfactants possess unique properties such as antimicrobial and anti-adhesive effects. While chemical surfactants still have their uses, biosurfactants provide a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative with diverse benefits, that makes it the perfect tool to perform microbiome culture in droplets.
## How to Make Droplet-based Microbiome Culture
### Reagents
Novec HFE7500 (3M) contains 5%, 2% or 0.5% (w/w) concentration of Competitor 1 surfactant, Competitor 2 Surfactant, or [dSurf (Fluigent)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) .
### Microbial sample
**A microbial sample collected from the skin of healthy volunteers was used for microbiome culture in [droplets generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/ "droplets generation"). A general microbial skin sample, as opposed to a single strain like**[ ***E. coli***](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/), was used here because a bacterial community consisting of many species better represents the experimental condition for microbiological research.
The microbial skin sample was prepared according to Biomillenia’s proprietary standard sample preparation workflow and was suspended in a standard medium for skin microbes containing 0.5% (v/v) TWEEN80. TWEEN80 is a lipophilic molecule in the aqueous phase that interferes with the droplet stabilizing characteristics of the surfactants.
### Droplet generation
The droplets were prepared on Biomillenia’s proprietary microfluidic platform with PDMS chips. The two liquid phases were controlled during droplet generation by the use of high precision pressure pumps ([Fluigent, Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)).
Droplets were generated at frequencies of 7-10 kHz. The droplet volume was set to 20 pL. Droplets were collected and incubated in custom made vessels at 37 °C, allowing the droplets to be stored without exposing them to a direct gas interface.
### Observation of the microbiome culture in droplets
**From the droplet collection vessel, a small number of droplets were sampled to check for droplet stability and bacterial occupation at 0, 1, 3 and 7 days of incubation. For imaging by microscope, droplets were spread onto a monolayer surrounded by an oil-surfactant combination.**
## What material to perform droplet microfluidics for microbiome culture?
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
dSurf (discontinued)
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
## Partial results of droplet-based microbiome culture
The collected droplets were spread in Biomillenia’s proprietary observation chip for best imaging of microbial occupation in droplets after 7 days of incubation at 37 °C. As shown in the figure below, a monolayer of droplets surrounded by the respective oil-surfactant combination was imaged microscopically.
Surfactant concentrations of 2% and higher result in stable populations over 7 days at 37°C for dSURF and Competitor 2. While for Competitor 1,a concentration of 5% is required to reach similar results.
*Images of droplets with dSURF2 A2 Competitor 12 B2 and with Competitor 22 C2 after 7 days incubation*
Bacterial occupancy was observed in the microbiome culture in droplets after 1, 3 and 7 days for each condition. A droplet is considered ‘occupied’ when it contains at least 3 bacteria. Since all the [bacterial encapsulations](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/) were done in the same condition (same bacterial culture at the same concentration, same flow-rates, etc), one would expect the bacterial occupancy to be similar for each condition.
However, the choice of surfactant has a strong impact on the occupation rate, meaning a higher and more stable occupation rate is found with dSURF surfactants.
*Droplet occupancy rate over time for each surfactant at 05 2 and 5*
## Conclusion
The stability of microfluidic emulsions strongly depend on the content of droplets and its interplay with the surfactant used. Hydrophobic compounds in the aqueous phase, along with microbial growth of various species, present far from ideal conditions for microfluidic droplets, but exemplify the experimental challenges encountered when microfluidic techniques are applied in microbiology. Hence, surfactants are needed to accommodate those complex sample characteristics.
In conclusion, [**dSURF surfactants**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) for microbiome culture in droplets perform well compared to widely established microfluidic surfactants and are highly suitable for complex biological applications.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Using dSurf for High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry (LuMIn) Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/droplet-micro-thermometry-lumin/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Using dSurf for High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry (LuMIn)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/droplet-micro-thermometry-lumin/)
**Published:** October 9, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
This case study highlights the successful [application of High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0017931023003824 "application of High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry") by Abdel El Abed and Gauthier Guerin.
This application was developed using dSurf, a discontinued Fluigent product.
Discover the [008-Fluorosurfactant](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/ "008-Fluorosurfactant"), engineered by RAN Biotechnologies, offering similar performance and enhanced usability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/fluorosurfactant-droplet-microfluidics/)
## Why develop Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) droplet micro-thermometry technology?
### Benefits of lab-on-a-chip technology
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/) is a scientific field that deals with the manipulation and control of fluids, generally in extremely small volumes ranging from microliters (10-6) to picoliters (10-12). It can be applied in life sciences and biotechnology research using [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) with interconnected channels. Lab-on-a-chip and microscale total analysis systems (µTAS) can enable faster, less expensive diagnostics. Microfluidic technology offers a promising alternative to traditional laboratory techniques due to its small-volume operation. It enables complete laboratory protocols to be carried out on a single, compact chip. For instance, lab-on-a-chip technology makes it possible to miniaturize analytical equipment for diagnosing diseases and determining the concentration of pollutants, or the ability to utilize droplet micro-thermometry studies. \[1\]
### Why is temperature control both important and challenging?
Successful implementation of microscale microfluidic systems requires meticulous control of physicochemical parameters within the microfluidic chip. However, temperature measurement in microscale flows can be problematic, as only a few techniques allow non-invasive, localized measurements in fluids and temperature is often a vital parameter that needs to be considered in many applications. Precise [temperature control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/microfluidic-reservoir-block-heater/) plays an important role in microfluidic systems for a variety of reasons. For example, it ensures cell viability, regulates reaction kinetics, governs fluid properties, preserves biomolecular interactions, and manages thermal gradients. These factors are particularly crucial in droplet technology, where the analyte is dispersed in numerous droplets circulating in a continuous phase of variable nature. That is why droplet temperature measurement is a crucial topic to develop.
### Temperature control in droplet microfluidics
[Microfluidic droplet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) generation has received particular attention for its ability to create millions of microreactors and chambers in seconds, enabling high-throughput experiments. These droplets, held together by surface tension, provide a confined environment suitable for a variety of applications, including process analysis, particle synthesis, chemical analysis, single-cell analysis, and drug testing. The unique characteristics of droplet microfluidics are of significant value in bio(chemical) analysis and material generation at the nanoscale and microscale. \[2\]However, to study chemical reactions in numerous droplets on a large scale, high-throughput temperature determination methods are required. The properties of droplets, such as their high production rate and small size, call for new measurement techniques. In this context, a non-intrusive and cost-effective approach is based on the production and manipulation of highly monodisperse microdroplets containing thermoreactive dyes (rhodamine B and rhodamine 110). This droplet micro-thermometry method enables real-time temperature detection at high acquisition rates, with precise control and reproducibility of droplet-based experiments.
## How to use Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) for droplet temperature measurement
### Droplet production with a microfluidic chip
[Microfluidic droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) relies on the use of immiscible fluids, typically oil and aqueous solutions, in microfluidic chips. The [design and material of the microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) influence various physical aspects of droplet generation. In this micro-droplet thermometry study, the chips are made of PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) and sealed onto a 1 mm thick borosilicate glass slide.
PDMS microfluidic chips offer many advantages, including oxygen and gas permeability, optical transparency, elastomeric properties, robustness, non-toxicity, biocompatibility, a relatively low cost, and the ability to create complex microfluidic models by stacking multiple layers. To improve droplet quality in terms of size and frequency, microfluidic channels are made fluorophilic and a silanization step is performed to improve the wetting of the continuous phase inside the channel. \[1\]
Both fluids are injected into the microfluidic system using dual [syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/) and PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) tubing. The microchannel design incorporates a [“flow focusing” geometry](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/), which involves passive shearing of the aqueous phase by the fluorinated oil flow through a carefully designed nozzle.
Figure 1 Flow focusing geometry
Two different chip configurations, each with a specific nozzle size, ensure the consistent production of droplets of approximately 55 µm and 30 µm in size at different flow rates (Qc=300 µL/h; Qd=50 µL/h and Qc=150 µL/h; Qd=20 µL/h,. These droplets aim to contain two thermo-responsive dyes to perform droplet micro-thermometry.
### Use of thermo-responsive dyes
This study focuses on micro-scale droplet temperature measurement using a non-invasive method based on laser-induced fluorescence. The method uses highly uniform dye-doped microdroplets flowing in microfluidic channels. Two thermoreactive dyes with temperature-sensitive quantum yields are used, enabling real-time temperature detection at high acquisition rates thanks to volumetric illumination. Using a single excitation with a 532 nm laser, satisfactory fluorescent emission with no absorption overlap is obtained. Fluorescence signals from both dyes are analyzed using a method known as “two-dye, one-color laser-induced fluorescence” (2d/1c LIF), which is particularly well-suited to droplet fluorescence measurements.
To overcome variations in droplet volume or laser illumination during experimentation, a ratiometric comparison of the fluorescence intensities of the two dyes is used. The temperature dependence of rhodamine B and rhodamine 110 is then exploited, with the quantum yield of rhodamine B decreasing with increasing temperature (-2.3%/◦C in water) and rhodamine 110 showing minimal variation in quantum yield (+0.13%/◦C in water). Due to its low bandwidth overlap with the absorption of rhodamine B, rhodamine 110 serves as an effective normalization component. \[3\] \[4\]The experimental setup is relatively simple but highly reproducible, providing a reliable means of measuring droplet temperature. This proof-of-concept demonstrates the potential of the two-dye LIF method for studying droplet micro-thermometry at high rates.
### What is the optical system used for micro-droplet thermometry?
Fluorescent detection of colored droplets in the microfluidic chip is facilitated using an inverted microscope, as the chip is composed of a transparent medium ([PDMS and glass](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)). For illumination, a continuous 532 nm laser beam is manually focused on the channel flow, positioned 1 mm from the nozzle to achieve droplet stabilization. With a standard x50 objective, the resulting focal point has a tiny diameter of 5 µm, considerably smaller than the droplets.
For maximum emission, the laser diode is tuned to the channel flux. The fluorescence signal is collected by a parabolic mirror and directed to the filters before being detected by two photomultiplier tubes, each responsible for an emission wavelength. Detecting the emission of both dyes provides a satisfactory signal-to-noise ratio (SNR>10), and the use of a high-pass filter (λmax=520nm) and a low-pass filter (λmin=560 nm) enables the wavelengths to be separated.
To maintain a consistent experimental environment, a microscope incubator is used to regulate and control temperature. The droplet micro-thermometry protocol is repeatable by applying the same script to all series of measurements.
In conclusion, this device demonstrates successful and reasonable excitation and detection at high rates using a readily available 532 nm laser source in combination with standard photomultipliers.
Figure 2 Experimental setup for droplet production and optical detection
## Using dSurf to produce highly monodispersed droplets
### What is the dSurf?
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
[dSURF](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) is a high-performance surfactant specially designed to reduce surface tension or interfacial tension between two liquids. This unique chemical compound is well-suited to generate highly uniform and stable microdroplets. By incorporating dSURF at a concentration of 2% in 3M™ Novec™ 7500 fluorinated oil, it creates droplets with high performance and longevity. Even in demanding experimental settings such as dPCR and cell culture experiments, dSURF ensures reliable droplet formation and sustained stability over long periods.
### Why is it important to use a surfactant?
Surfactants are widely used in various life science industries.. Their main function is to reduce the surface tension of liquids, thus improving wetting, spreading and penetration of substances. By acting as dispersants, surfactants also ensure uniform distribution of particles or droplets in solutions. In addition, these versatile compounds can modify the interfacial properties between immiscible substances such as oil and water, enabling processes such as emulsification and enhanced oil recovery.In essence, surfactants play an essential role in improving the effectiveness and efficiency of many industrial and consumer products, including their application in droplet experiments for [microbiome research](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microbiome-culture-in-droplet-using-dsurf-surfactant/) and other scientific studies.
### Using the dSurf for temperature assessment
In this droplet micro-thermometry study, the [dSURF](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/), Fluigent’s highly stable fluorinated surfactant, present at a concentration of 2% in 3M™ Novec™ 7500 fluorinated oil, is used as the continuous phase. To ensure the desirable stability of the aqueous droplets, the concentration of dSurf in the continuous phase was maintained at 1% by volume.
The aqueous phase was carefully prepared by combining methanol and deionized water in an 80/20 volume ratio. In this mixture, fluorescent dyes (Rhodamine B and Rhodamine 110) were dissolved, resulting in a concentration of 10 µM. This combination of components was chosen to obtain optimal results, considering both the refractive index of the phases and the prevention of laser reflection at the droplet interface. HFE 7500 and the 80/20 methanol/water binary solution were deliberately chosen, as they have respective refractive indices of nHFE = 1.29 and nMetOH/H2O = 1.33 that prevent unwanted laser reflection over the droplet surface.
In addition to that, the fluorescence signal from the dyes is also maximized while ensuring emulsion integrity. Thanks to this precise formulation, the droplets produced exhibited minimal coalescence and demonstrated a high level of monodispersity throughout the experiment.
## Partial results
### How the variation of temperature influences the fluorescence
Before testing droplet micro-thermometry, it seemed important to test the setup in bulk flow and prove that variations in temperature and fluorescence are related. The experiment described below help determine a temperature equation as a function of the ratio of the two thermo-responsive dyes.
Initially, a 10 µM solution of RhB and Rh110 dyes in a solvent consisting of an 80/20 water/methanol mixture was injected through a 100µm×50µm microfluidic channel at 50 µL/hr. The setup presented above has been reworked so that the light emitted by the sample is now redirected to a spectrometer. The excitation notch filter is placed before the optical fiber. The recovered signal is separated into two wavelength bands <520nm for Rh110 and >560nm for RhB. The following formula is then established:
With R the ratio of fluorescence intensities of the two dyes and s the sensitivity coefficient.
To determine this coefficient s, fluorescence intensity measurements were carried out for five different temperatures and two different flowrates. Then, by normalizing the ratio values obtained, it was possible to determine that the fluorescence intensity ratio decreases steadily at a linear rate of -1.4%/◦C. Detection and variation showed promising results for droplet temperature measurement.
Figure 4 Fluorescence signal acquisition in bulk flow A solution of methanol containing the 2 dyes is injected with various flowrates 50 and 200µLh into a microfluidic channel µm×50µm section maintained at a various temperature
### Temperature variation using a stream of fluorescent droplets.
After validating the model in the case of bulk flow, the study continued with tests on a flow of fluorescent droplets for droplet micro-thermometry. Droplets were generated using a microfluidic chip, where passive shear through nozzles of two different sizes were used. The continuous phase used was dSURF, while the dispersed phase remained the aforementioned 80/20 water/methanol mixture. The configuration and data acquisition system used were consistent with those used in previous experiments. To avoid saturation of the fluorescence signal caused by excessive laser power, it was set at 50% for all experiments.
A typical fluorescence profile of the droplets studied is as follows:
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/droplet-micro-thermometry-fluorescence-profile.png)Figure 5 Fluorescence signal emitted by 55µm dyed flowing droplets at 20°C
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/10/fluorescence-intensity-ratio-measurement.png)Figure 6 Fluorescence intensity ratio measurement of 55µm droplets Left 80 dropletstemperature sample and 35µm droplets Right 250 dropletstemperature sample
The fluorescence profile of the droplets studied was characterized by considering the area under the half-value width (FWHM) of the fluorescence peaks. During data acquisition, each peak area of the “red” signal (Rhodamine B) was integrated and then divided by its corresponding “green” area (Rhodamine 110).
Tests were carried out for two different droplet sizes: 55µm and 30µm. After normalization, linear regression revealed variations in fluorescence intensity ratios of -1.53%/°C and -1.41%/°C, respectively. Interestingly, these results appear to be consistent with the value obtained for bulk flow over the same temperature range (20°C-50°C).
However, it was observed that the variation in fluorescence intensity, which ideally should be independent of [droplet size](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/), showed some differences. These differences can be due to manual chip placement causing illumination errors on droplet apex. Ratiometric calculation partially compensated for it, but uncertainty propagation still affected low intensity peaks and noise. Another limitation of the system is the acquisition frequency, which depends on droplet velocity. For accurate peak integration, a sufficient number of data points per peak is required to avoid estimation errors. Consequently, the dispersion encountered with 30 µm droplets was greater, as they had less than 50 data points per peak, compared with 55 µm droplets, which had up to 300 data points per peak.
Despite these limitations, the method is considered validated, as the deviations observed are minimal. Overall, this fluorescence-based approach for droplet micro-thermometry provides valuable information, but careful consideration of experimental factors and potential uncertainties is essential to obtain accurate and reliable results.
### What kind of temperature changes should be expected in a cooling chip?
A second model was investigated, involving the evaluation of temperature changes inside droplets during a cooling phase. To this end, the microfluidic chip was cooled to room temperature and the previous setup was used, with the addition of a thermometer to monitor the cooling process. The chip was first heated to 50°C for 5 minutes to reach the stationary phase, after which it was left to cool in a room at 20°C until it reached a temperature of 25°C, while continuously generating droplets.
Using the formula mentioned above, droplet temperature measurement was performed, setting T0 at 25°C and using a sensitivity coefficient of -1.41%/°C. Integrated thermometer measurements revealed a decreasing exponential evolution of the thermal profile over time, confirming a first-order cooling model induced by natural convection. In comparison, the fluorescence ratio profile showed an inverted trend, which was expected since the thermal sensitivity of the dye was negative.
Finally, the resulting profile showed a delayed decreasing contour, eventually approaching the final T0 value. This delayed dynamic highlights the influence of material inertia: when the chip was externally heated, thermalization occurred mainly by conduction through the glass and oil. Consequently, the observed droplet temperature corresponds to the results of heat transfer through the glass and oil flow, delayed by the diffusive phenomenon.
Figure 7 Fluorescence intensity ratio measurement of droplets 35µm flowing through a cooling chip
Crucially, the application of the two-dye LIF method provides access to the internal temperature of droplets as they flow through the microfluidic chip. However, this droplet micro-thermometry study also demonstrates that the thermal inertia of the chip is considerable and cannot be neglected at the micrometer scale when examining thermal dynamics.
[Read the full article](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0017931023003824)
## Related resources
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### E. Coli Culture in Droplets Using dSURF Fluorosurfactant
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/e-coli-culture-in-droplets-using-dsurf-fluorosurfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Microbiome culture in droplet using dsurf surfactant
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microbiome-culture-in-droplet-using-dsurf-surfactant/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Analysis of a commercial surfactant for digital PCR assay
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
## References
\[1\] Microfluidic white paper – An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling – Fluigent
\[2\] Microfluidic white paper – Droplet-based Microfluidics – Fluigent
\[3\] J. Sakakibara, R. J. Adrian, Whole field measurement of temperature in water using two-color laser induced fluorescence, Experiments in Fluids 26 (1) (1999) 7–15. doi:10.1007/s003480050260
\[4\] R. F. Kubin, A. N. Fletcher, Fluorescence quantum yields of some rhodamine dyes, Journal of Luminescence 27 (4) (1982) 455–462. doi:10.1016/0022-2313(82)90045-X.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [hiPSCs-derived Vascular Organ-on-Chip Model Under Unidirectional Controlled Flow](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/hipscs-derived-vascular-organ-on-chip/)
**Published:** January 12, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
The work was conducted in collaboration with Dr. Dhanesh Kasi, Dr. Hanna Lammertse, and Dr. Valeria Orlova from the Leiden Organ-on-Chip Center and the Orlova group at [Leiden University Medical Center](https://www.orlovalab.com/).
[Download the Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/01/application-note_fluigent_lumc-hipscs-ecs.pdf)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-importance-of-flow-in-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Importance of Unidirectional Flow in Vascular Organ-on-Chip Models
Vessel-on-Chip (VoC) and other vascularized in vitro models aim to replicate **stable vascular physiology**, where endothelial cells are continuously exposed to **unidirectional shear stress** (1). In vivo, this mechanical stimulus is essential for maintaining mature endothelial phenotype.
In contrast:
- **Static culture** fails to provide mechanical stimulation, resulting in non-aligned, immature endothelial cells. Whereas, **rocking platforms**, mimics disturbed back and forth flow. These varying flow patterns typically associated with abnormal conditions rather than healthy vasculature.(2)
For hiPSC-derived endothelial cells in particular, **flow directionality** plays a significant role (3) in:
- Cell elongation and alignment parallel to flow
- Golgi–nucleus polarization
- Barrier integrity and functional maturation
However, implementing unidirectional flow with recirculation using traditional microfluidic systems could often be complex and difficult to maintain over extended periods.
### Experimental Workflow and Quantitative Readouts
This application note provides a **step-by-step experimental workflow**, from cell seeding to quantitative image analysis.
**You will find:**
- A **5-day unidirectional flow protocol** for hiPSC-derived endothelial cells
- Omi™ setup and recirculation workflow
- Comparison of **static, bidirectional, and unidirectional** flow conditions
- Quantitative analysis of **cell alignment and polarization** using PolarityJam
- Evidence of **stable flow maintenance over prolonged culture**
👉 **[Download the application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/01/application-note_fluigent_lumc-hipscs-ecs.pdf "Download the application note")** to explore the full methodology and results.
## Experimental Overview: hiPSC-Derived Endothelial Cells Under Flow
Human iPSCs were differentiated into endothelial cells following established protocols from the Orlova group (4). Cells were seeded into **Beonchip Be-Flow microfluidic chips**, coated with fibronectin to promote adhesion.
After initial attachment, chips were assigned to one of three conditions:
- **Static culture**
- **Bidirectional flow** using a rocking platform
- **Unidirectional flow with recirculation** using Omi™
*Figure 1 Overview of the Experimental Workflow* For Omi™ experiments, an automated protocol guided users through device calibration and connection of the organ-on-chip model. Flow rates were gradually increased over the course of the experiment to facilitate endothelial adaptation, alignment, and maturation, ultimately reaching a maximum shear stress of 0.912 dyn/cm².
## Results: Stable Unidirectional Flow Drives hiPSC-derived Endothelial Cells Alignment and Polarization
Omi™ maintained the preconfigured unidirectional flow profiles over a continuous 5-day culture period. The recirculation functionality enabled continuous perfusion without the need for additional medium replenishment, thereby minimizing experimental variability and reducing medium consumption.
Under unidirectional shear stress, hiPSC-derived endothelial cells (hiPSC-ECs) underwent **pronounced morphological and organizational** changes characteristic of a mature endothelial phenotype. Immunofluorescence imaging revealed strong elongation and alignment of hiPSC-ECs parallel **to the direction of flow**, whereas cells cultured under static conditions or subjected to bidirectional flow on a rocking platform retained a morphology with random orientation (Figure 2).
*Figure 2 Immunofluorescence images of hiPSC ECs cultured under static conditions bidirectional and unidirectional flow using Omi* Beyond changes in cell morphology, **unidirectional flow** induced collective polarization of the **Golgi–nucleus axis**, a well-established hallmark of endothelial mechanosensing and functional maturation *(5)*. Under unidirectional shear, the Golgi apparatus consistently localized upstream of the nucleus, oriented opposite to the direction of flow, reflecting coordinated planar cell polarity across the endothelial monolayer. This polarization is mechanistically linked to shear-mediated cytoskeletal remodeling and spatial organization of signaling pathways involved in junction stabilization, barrier function, and anti-inflammatory endothelial states (6).
In contrast, hiPSC-derived endothelial cells maintained **under static or bidirectional flow conditions** showed no preferential Golgi–nucleus orientation, indicating a failure to establish sustained polarity. Quantitative analysis using [PolarityJam](https://polarityjam.readthedocs.io/en/latest/ "PolarityJam") *(7)* confirmed significantly higher alignment and polarity indices under unidirectional flow compared to both control conditions. Notably, bidirectional flow—despite generating shear stress—did not induce polarization, underscoring that flow directionality, rather than shear magnitude alone, is a decisive determinant of endothelial organization and phenotype in hiPSC-derived Vascular Organ-on-Chip Model.
Full analysed data and methods are provided in the [complete application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/01/application-note_fluigent_lumc-hipscs-ecs.pdf "complete application note").
## Omi™: Simplifying Unidirectional Flow with Recirculation
**Omi™ is a compact, [automated Organ-on-Chip perfusion platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "automated Organ-on-Chip perfusion platform")** designed to remove technical barriers associated with long-term microfluidic experiments.
In this application note, Omi™ was used to:
- Deliver **continuous, unidirectional flow**
- Maintain **stable flow profiles over five days**
- Enable **recirculation of a small culture medium volume**
*Figure 3 Two Fluigent Omis with connected microfluidic chips running inside an incubater and the tablet interface*
Unlike rocking platforms, Omi™ maintains a **constant flow direction**, while automated recirculation minimizes medium consumption and manual intervention.
Up to 12 Omi™ units can be controlled simultaneously via an **intuitive tablet interface**, allowing easy configuration of flow rates and profiles.
Read further to understand how Omi functions:
- [Controlling Shear Stress with HUVECs](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/ "Controlling Shear Stress with HUVECs")
- [Gut-on-chip Modelling](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/ "Gut-on-chip Modelling")
- [How long-term recirculation made possible with Omi?](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/ "How long-term recirculation made possible with Omi?")
## Conclusion
This application note demonstrates how the **Omi™ platform** can be configured for long-term, low-volume recirculating perfusion in physiologically relevant vessel-on-chip experiments. It details the **flow rates**, **shear stress conditions**, and **automated protocols** used to establish and maintain unidirectional flow in **hiPSC-derived **vascular** ooac models**, as well as the resulting endothelial alignment and Golgi–nucleus polarization readouts. Practical guidance is also provided to support the implementation of unidirectional flow in custom Organ-on-Chip setups.
[Download the Full Paper](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2026/01/application-note_fluigent_lumc-hipscs-ecs.pdf)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
*Fluigent Author: Anel Rakhmatullina*
## Related Solutions
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### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
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### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
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## Related Webinars
- [
### Webinar – Liver–Kidney OOC Model to Investigate Drug Disposition
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-liver-kidney-ooc-model/)
- [
### Webinar: Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip, featuring the Gut-on-a-Chip Model
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
Acknowledgements
The work in Leiden OoC Center and Dr. Orlova is supported by the Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Medicine that is supported by a Novo Nordisk Foundation grant (NNF21CC0073729) and the LymphChip project with project number NWA-ORC 2019 1292.19.019 of the NWA research program ‘‘Research on Routes by Consortia (ORC),’’ which is funded by the Netherlands Organisation for Scientific Research (NWO).
References
1. Ingber DE. Human organs-on-chips for disease modelling, drug development and personalized medicine. Nat Rev Genet. 2022 Aug;23(8):467–91.
2\. Shakeri A, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Landau S, Perera K, Lee J, et al. Engineering Organ-on-a-Chip Systems for Vascular Diseases. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol. 2023 Dec;43(12):2241–55.
3\. Jang S, Collin de l’Hortet A, Soto-Gutierrez A. Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Endothelial Cells: Overview, Current Advances, Applications, and Future Directions. Am J Pathol. 2019 Mar;189(3):502–12.
4\. Orlova VV, van den Hil FE, Petrus-Reurer S, Drabsch Y, Ten Dijke P, Mummery CL. Generation, expansion and functional analysis of endothelial cells and pericytes derived from human pluripotent stem cells. Nat Protoc. 2014;9(6):1514–31.
5\. Tkachenko E, Gutierrez E, Saikin SK, Fogelstrand P, Kim C, Groisman A, et al. The nucleus of endothelial cell as a sensor of blood flow direction. Biol Open. 2013 Aug 14;2(10):1007–12.
6\. Dorland YL, Huveneers S. Cell-cell junctional mechanotransduction in endothelial remodeling. Cell Mol Life Sci CMLS. 2017 Jan;74(2):279–92.
7\. Giese W, Albrecht JP, Oppenheim O, Akmeriç EB, Kraxner J, Schmidt D, et al. Polarity-JaM: an image analysis toolbox for cell polarity, junction and morphology quantification. Nat Commun. 2025 Feb 8;16(1):1474.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Automated Microfluidic Electrochemistry for Sustainable Cyclohexanol Oxidation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-microfluidic-electrochemistry/)
**Published:** February 18, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## A Paper from Imperial College London
Paper: Liang, X.; Ouyang, M.; Brandon, N. P.; Xuan, J.; Wang, H. Automated Microfluidics for Efficient Characterization of Cyclohexanol Electrooxidation for Sustainable Chemical Production. *JACS Au* **2025**, *5* (3), 1340–1349.
This study was conducted by **Dr.** [**Huizhi Wang’s lab**](https://profiles.imperial.ac.uk/huizhi.wang) **at** Imperial College London. Dr. Wang is an Associate Professor in Electrochemical Engineering and a member of the Electrochemical Science & Engineering Group. Her research focuses on **electrochemical energy systems**, including fuel cells, batteries, and electrolysers, with emphasis on thermofluid processes, **microfluidic fabrication**, and **diagnostic techniques**.
## Can Microfluidic Electrochemistry Improve Power-to-Chemicals Research?
Power-to-chemicals processes, which convert renewable electricity into value-added products, are attracting attention as a route to decarbonize the chemical industry.1–3 A representative example is the **electrooxidation of cyclohexanol to cyclohexanone**, an important precursor for nylon and fine chemicals.4,5 Compared with conventional oxidation methods, electrochemical routes can operate under milder conditions, improve selectivity, and enable the co-production of hydrogen.4,6
However, **the reaction mechanisms and limiting factors remain poorly understood**. Reported performances vary widely due to differences in reactor designs, which affect mass transport and reaction environments. In addition, the large number of variables, such as electrode materials, electrolytes, additives, and flow conditions, makes systematic studies slow and labor-intensive.7,8
These challenges highlight the need [for automated and reproducible experimental platforms](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/automation-in-microfluidics/), where [**microfluidic**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/) **electrochemistry** offers a promising solution (Figure 1).9
Figure 1: Cyclohexanol electrooxidation using a microfluidic approach (reference from \[1\] Liang, X. et al. JACS Au **2025**, 5 (3), 1340–1349).
## Aim of the Study
In this paper, X. Liang *et al.* developed an **automated microfluidic electrochemistry platform** for the precise and reproducible investigation of **cyclohexanol electrooxidation**. Operating at the microscale allows accurate control over flow, mass transport, and reaction conditions, enabling systematic and reliable measurements.
The platform integrates **key functions** such as **electrolyte preparation**, **reaction control**, and **characterization into a single automated system** (Figure 2). This setup allows efficient screening of operating conditions and surfactant additives, provides mechanistic insights on nickel electrodes, and offers a transferable approach for studying other power-to-chemicals processes.
Figure 2: Microfluidic experimental platform and automation design (reference from \[1\]).
## How to Set Up an Automated Microfluidic Electrochemistry Platform
The microfluidic platform consisted of a **3D-printed micromixer and a T-shaped counterflow electrochemical reactor** for inline electrolyte preparation and cyclohexanol electrooxidation measurements (Figure 2). Nickel and platinum electrodes were integrated in a coplanar configuration with an Ag/AgCl reference, and an observation window allowed in-operando microscopy. **Laminar flow of anolyte and catholyte streams** minimized cross-contamination, ensuring accurate and reproducible measurements.
**Four** [**Fluigent FlowEZ pressure pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) delivered anolyte and catholyte from airtight reservoirs to the micromixer and reactor, providing stable, pulseless flow for long-term experiments (Figure 3). [**A Python program**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/) coordinated the pumps, electrochemical workstation, and digital microscope, [enabling automated control](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/automation-in-microfluidics/) of concentrations, flow rates, and multistep measurements (Figure 4). Each experiment followed a three-stage procedure: stabilizing flow and electrolyte composition, acquiring electrochemical data, and removing hydrogen bubbles with a brief high-flow flush, ensuring reproducible operation.
Figure 3: Electrochemical microfluidic devices for cyclohexanol electrooxidation. (a) 3D-printed micromixer with reactor; flow paths indicated. (b) Micromixer (b1) and reactor (b2) structures. (c) T-shaped counter-flow reactor schematic (reference from \[1\]).
Figure 4: Excerpt from the Python code used for pressure pump control (reference from \[1\]).
Cyclic voltammetry (CV) and linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) were performed at ambient temperature (25 ± 1°C) over 0.20–0.54 V vs Ag/AgCl with scan rates from 2–200 mV/s. Nickel electrodes were pretreated in situ with 0.5 mol/L NaOH to form a stable β-Ni(OH)₂ layer, providing the Ni²⁺/Ni³⁺ redox couple for cyclohexanol oxidation.
## Microfluidic Proof of Concept: Mechanistic Study and Additive Screening
Using the automated platform, the authors investigated the electrooxidation of cyclohexanol on nickel electrodes in alkaline media. The reaction follows an **indirect pathway** in which Ni(OH)₂ is electrochemically converted to NiOOH, which then chemically oxidizes adsorbed cyclohexanol to cyclohexanone before being regenerated. Electrochemical measurements showed **a strong increase in oxidation** currents in the presence of cyclohexanol, confirming the catalytic role of the Ni(OH)₂/NiOOH redox couple. Systematic variations in scan rate, concentration, and flow conditions revealed that **the surface chemical reaction** between adsorbed cyclohexanol and NiOOH is **slower than charge transfer and mass transport**, identifying it as the rate-determining step.
This **microfluidic electrochemistry** approach provides [**precise control over flow**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/), **concentration**, and **interfacial transport**, while maintaining separated laminar streams for the anolyte and catholyte. The resulting stable and reproducible conditions enable accurate kinetic analysis, reduced reagent consumption, and automated screening of operating parameters (Figure 5).
Figure 5 Microfluidic electrocatalytic oxidation of cyclohexanol on a nickel electrode a Schematic of the reaction in a flowing electrolyte b representative cyclic voltammogram in NaOH with cyclohexanol c optical images at key stages of the scan de influence of scan rate on current response f effect of cyclohexanol concentration g effect of electrolyte flow rate reference from 1
The platform was further used to evaluate **the effect of surfactant additives**. All tested surfactants increased the oxidation current, with a nonionic surfactant showing the strongest improvement. The results indicate that ionic and nonionic surfactants enhance performance through different interfacial mechanisms, demonstrating the system’s capability for **rapid and systematic additive screening.**
## Conclusion
An automated **microfluidic electrochemistry** platform was developed for the controlled and efficient study of **cyclohexanol electrooxidation**, a promising route for sustainable chemical production. The system enabled automated electrolyte preparation, **precise reaction control**, and **real-time electrochemical measurements**, leading to the confirmation of the reaction mechanism and identification of the rate-determining step. It also allowed rapid and systematic screening of surfactant additives.
Stable, pulseless flow was provided by **FlowEZ pressure controllers**, while the **Fluigent SDK enabled Python-based** **automation** of the entire workflow, offering a reproducible and transferable solution for electrosynthesis research.
Read the full paper: Liang, X.; Ouyang, M.; Brandon, N. P.; Xuan, J.; Wang, H. Automated Microfluidics for Efficient Characterization of Cyclohexanol Electrooxidation for Sustainable Chemical Production. *JACS Au* **2025**, *5* (3), 1340–1349. .
*Fluigent Author: Joseph Farah*
## Discover our range of flow control instruments
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### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
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### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
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References
(1) Liang, X.; Ouyang, M.; Brandon, N. P.; Xuan, J.; Wang, H. Automated Microfluidics for Efficient Characterization of Cyclohexanol Electrooxidation for Sustainable Chemical Production. *JACS Au* **2025**, *5* (3), 1340–1349. https://doi.org/10.1021/jacsau.4c01207.
(2) Barton, J. L. Electrification of the Chemical Industry. *Science* **2020**, *368* (6496), 1181–1182. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.abb8061.
(3) Daiyan, R.; MacGill, I.; Amal, R. Opportunities and Challenges for Renewable Power-to-X. *ACS Energy Lett.* **2020**, *5* (12), 3843–3847. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsenergylett.0c02249.
(4) Jia, Y.; Chen, Z.; Gao, B.; Liu, Z.; Yan, T.; Gui, Z.; Liao, X.; Zhang, W.; Gao, Q.; Zhang, Y.; Xu, X.; Tang, Y. Directional Electrosynthesis of Adipic Acid and Cyclohexanone by Controlling the Active Sites on NiOOH. *J. Am. Chem. Soc.* **2024**, *146* (2), 1282–1293. https://doi.org/10.1021/jacs.3c05898.
(5) Wang, R.; Kang, Y.; Wu, J.; Jiang, T.; Wang, Y.; Gu, L.; Li, Y.; Yang, X.; Liu, Z.; Gong, M. Electrifying Adipic Acid Production: Copper‐Promoted Oxidation and C−C Cleavage of Cyclohexanol. *Angewandte Chemie* **2022**, *134* (50), e202214977. https://doi.org/10.1002/ange.202214977.
(6) Liu, F.; Gao, X.; Shi, R.; Xiong, J.; Guo, Z.; Tse, E. C. M.; Chen, Y. Graphdiyne as an Electron Modifier for Boosting Electrochemical Production of Adipic Acid. *Adv Funct Materials* **2024**, *34* (6), 2310274. https://doi.org/10.1002/adfm.202310274.
(7) Ghosh, S.; Bagchi, D.; Mondal, I.; Sontheimer, T.; Jagadeesh, R. V.; Menezes, Prashanth. W. Deciphering the Role of Nickel in Electrochemical Organic Oxidation Reactions. *Advanced Energy Materials* **2024**, *14* (22), 2400696. https://doi.org/10.1002/aenm.202400696.
(8) Cornejo, O. M.; Murrieta, M. F.; Castañeda, L. F.; Nava, J. L. Characterization of the Reaction Environment in Flow Reactors Fitted with BDD Electrodes for Use in Electrochemical Advanced Oxidation Processes: A Critical Review. *Electrochimica Acta* **2020**, *331*, 135373.
(9) Ibrahim, O. A.; Navarro-Segarra, M.; Sadeghi, P.; Sabaté, N.; Esquivel, J. P.; Kjeang, E. Microfluidics for Electrochemical Energy Conversion. *Chem. Rev.* **2022**, *122* (7), 7236–7266. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.chemrev.1c00499.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Organ-on-chip Platforms in Modern Drug Development and Testing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organ-on-chip-in-drug-development/)
**Published:** February 11, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Differences between organoids, organ-on-chip and microphysiological systems
When exploring the emerging field of microphysiological systems, it can be challenging to navigate the terminology and understand the essential distinctions. Advanced in vitro modeling includes several complementary technologies, such as **organoids**, **organ-on-chip (OOC) systems**, and **microphysiological systems (MPS)**, each differing in biological and engineering complexity, and their applications.
Figure 1 Differences between organoids OOC and MPS *AI generated*
### Organoids
**Organoids** are **3D, self-organized, stem-cell–derived mini-organs** that arise from intrinsic developmental programs. They can be generated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), embryonic stem cells, or adult stem cells, and often exhibit tissue-specific architectures, such as the cortical layers found in brain organoids. Organoids offer **high biological complexity** but typically have **limited perfusion** and lack mechanical stimulation.
Organoids are frequently confused with **spheroids** and **tumoroids**, although these 3D models represent different levels of complexity and serve distinct experimental purposes:
- **Spheroids** are **simple 3D aggregates composed of one or more cell types** that self-assemble under low-adhesion conditions (e.g., hanging-drop plates, ultra-low attachment plates, or spinner cultures). They are widely used in high-throughput drug screening.
- **Tumoroids** are **patient-derived tumor organoids**, a specialized subset of organoids generated from primary tumor tissue. They preserve tumor heterogeneity, genetic mutations, and, in some cases, microenvironmental features, making them valuable for precision oncology \[1\].
[*Learn more about organoid modeling, and how to move from static to dynamic culture.* ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/ "Learn more about organoid modeling, and how to move from static to dynamic culture. ")
### Organ-on-Chip
Organ-on-chip devices are **microengineered systems** that combine human cells, controlled microfluidic flow, and mechanical cues to reproduce organ-level structure, function, and microenvironmental forces. Compared to organoids, OOCs rely heavily on **flow control** for nutrient delivery, waste removal, and the replication of dynamic physiological conditions such as shear stress, breathing motions, or peristalsis.
### Microphysiological Systems
Microphysiological systems (MPS) are a **collective term** encompassing any in vitro models that reproduce human physiological functions at the tissue, organ, or multi-organ scale. MPS include:
- organ-on-chip systems
- organoids
- perfused tumoroids or spheroids
- synthetic bioprinted microtissues
- static transwell co-cultures
- multi-organ “body-on-chip” platforms
### Complexity Hierarchy of MPS
Advanced in vitro models span a broad spectrum of complexity, starting with basic 3D cultures and progressing toward dynamic, microengineered systems that more closely replicate human physiology.
**Spheroids → Tumoroids → Organoids → Organ-on-Chip → Full Microphysiological Systems**
*Figure *2* Complexity of in vitro systems*
Feature**Spheroids** **Tumoroids** **Organoids** **Organ-on-Chip** **3D Structure** Simple sphere Patient-derived structure Organ-like Engineered microenvironment **Cell Source** Cell lines / mixed Primary tumor Stem cells Primary or iPSC-derived **Architecture** Minimal Tumor-specific Tissue-specific Device-defined **Perfusion** ❌ None ❌ None ❌ None (unless hybrid) ✅ Controlled **Mechanical Forces** ❌ None ❌ None ❌ None ✅ Physiological **Drug Testing** Medium-throughput Patient-specific Disease-specific Mechanistic PK/PD **Shear Stress** ❌ None ❌ None ❌ Minimal Fully tunable **Personalization** Low Very high High Medium–high **Reproducibility** Good MediumMedium–high High ## Limitations of Animal Models in Drug Development and Testing
Drug development continues to face a well-known **translation gap**, where promising preclinical results in rodent models fail to reproduce in human clinical trials. Most failures occur due to **insufficient efficacy or unexpected toxicity** when candidates move from animal studies into human testing \[3\]. Moreover, the **FDA’s 2025 roadmap on reducing animal testing** also emphasizes that animal-based data have been particularly poor predictors of success in areas such **as Alzheimer’s disease and inflammatory disorders** \[4\].
A key limitation is that a compound may appear safe in animals yet cause serious harm in humans, because **metabolism, immune responses, receptor biology, and tissue susceptibility differ markedly between species**. A well-documented example is **fialuridine (FIAU)**, an antiviral compound that passed animal testing but caused fatal hepatic failure and lactic acidosis in human trials \[5\].
### The Opposite Scenario: False Negatives
Conversely, the reverse problem also occurs, potentially effective drugs may be **incorrectly rejected** due to toxicity in a particular animal species. A classic case is **penicillin**, which is safe and life-saving for humans but can be lethal to guinea pigs \[6\]. These “false negatives” illustrate the inherent risk of making human safety decisions based solely on animal responses.
### Modeling Human Disease Mechanisms
Beyond safety assessments, animal models also influence our **early mechanistic understanding of diseases**, which in turn shapes **target identification and drug discovery strategies**. However, when human disease biology differs substantially from that observed in animals, entire **discovery programs may be built on misleading assumptions**. A notable case is **Alzheimer’s disease (AD)**: decades of mouse research have produced mechanistic hypotheses that do not consistently translate to clinical benefit \[2\]. Recent research reviews argue that current mouse models frequently fail to capture the clinical heterogeneity of Alzheimer’s disease, and that many models overrepresent familial mutation-driven mechanisms compared with the predominantly irregular disease burden in humans \[7\].
Figure 3 Illustration of models for Alzheimers disease and comparison8
## Why Organ-on-a-Chip Technology Offers Improved Human Relevance for Drug Testing
Recent analyses of the OOAC field show that single- and multi-organ chips can model **complex diseases**, reproduce aspects of **clinical drug responses**, and **capture human-specific biology** that traditional models miss\[9\]. However, there are several challenges that must be addressed with **full regulatory and industry adoption**, as this transition is now following supportive policy changes such as the **FDA Modernization Act 2.0 (2022),** the first U.S. legislation enabling non-animal methods to be used in place of mandatory animal testing \[10\].
OOCs provide **engineered microenvironments** that cannot be achieved in static 2D culture systems. Unlike dish-based assays, Organ-on-a-chips can maintain physiological conditions that are essential for realistic organ function, including:
- 3D architecture or 3D-like organized co-cultures
- [Continuous perfusion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/) for nutrient delivery, waste removal, and tissue-level pharmacokinetics
- Controlled biochemical gradients (oxygen, cytokines, drugs)
- Functional tissue-tissue interfaces (such as epithelium–endothelium)
- Dynamic mechanical forces ([shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/), [mechanical compression/stretch](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/))
Because OOCs utilize **human cells** under physiologically relevant mechanical and biochemical cues, they aim to overcome key failure points of animal testing, such as species-specific biology.
Some of the clearest demonstrations of the “human advantage” of OOAC/MPS systems come from **oncology and immuno-oncology**. Here, the objective is not only toxicity testing but also predicting **patient-specific therapy responses**. Recent reviews highlight how microphysiological systems can recreate elements of the human tumor microenvironment, including vasculature, stromal interactions, and immune components, to evaluate immunotherapies and tumor-immune dynamics in ways that are impractical in animal models or static cultures \[11\].
## Organ-on-Chip in the Drug Development and Testing Pipeline
Drug development is a long, expensive, and failure-prone process, as illustrated in the figure below, which outlines the traditional pipeline from **target validation** through **clinical testing and final approval**. At each stage, thousands of drug candidates are progressively filtered down to only a handful that enter human trials, and only a few that reach the market. As pharmaceutical R&D shifts toward human-relevant preclinical methods, organ-on-a-chip systems are becoming increasingly integrated across multiple stages of the drug development pipeline. Their value lies in combining **human biology** and **real-time analytics**, making them uniquely suited to address long-standing translational challenges. OOCs can reproduce human-specific responses in ADME, toxicity, and disease modeling that traditional animal studies often miss \[9\].
Figure 4 Drug testing pipeline
### Early Discovery: Disease Modelling and Target Identification
In the earliest stages of drug development, researchers seek to understand disease mechanisms and identify tractable drug targets. OOCs enable these insights by modeling **human pathophysiology under controlled microenvironmental conditions**.
Added values of OOCs in this stage are the ability to recreate **disease-specific cues**, such as inflammation, hypoxia, mechanical stress, or dysregulated barrier function. Human-centric models also better reflect **patient heterogeneity**, especially when seeded with iPSC-derived or primary patient cells. For example, [**tumor-on-chip models**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/) replicate the 3D tumor microenvironment, including **metastatic behavior and drug resistance mechanisms**, and diseases that require precise mechanistic responses from humans, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), **barrier dysfunctions and microbiome interaction**, can be modelled using [**gut-on-chip technology.**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
### Lead Optimization: In Vitro ADME and Pharmacokinetics
Once a target is identified, lead compounds must be screened for **absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME)**. This is where **multi-organ OOC platforms** stand out.
- They support **linked organ systems**, such as gut → liver → kidney, which recreate human-like PK trajectories.
- Controlled flow allows precise modulation of drug exposure, enabling more accurate prediction of concentration–time curves.
- Organ-on-chips can produce human-relevant metrics like metabolite profiling that correlate with clinical findings.
For instance, liver-kidney microfluidic loops simulate biliary clearance and renal excretion. Several studies have demonstrated that OOCs can reproduce human PK behavior more accurately than rodent models, including prediction of oral absorption rates and drug–drug interactions \[9\].
[Learn more about liver-kidney axis and how this loop can be created with microfluidics.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
[Or how the kidney organoids can be vascularized on chip.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/)
### Preclinical Safety Assessment: Toxicology and Off-Target Effects
Toxicity remains the most common cause of clinical trial failure. OOC platforms excel at flagging human-specific toxic effects before animal or clinical testing. They permit organ-specific toxicity assays under human cell conditions. For example, a liver chip with 3D lobule architecture has been used to study drug–drug interaction toxicity during liver metabolism. Multi-organ systems can simultaneously monitor on-target and off-target toxicity: one design integrated liver and heart chips with biosensors to show that a metabolized cancer drug caused both hepatotoxicity and cardiotoxicity. Such chip tests have correctly identified toxic liabilities not seen in animal studies. Importantly, human OOCs can reveal adverse effects that animals miss (e.g. clinically observed cardiac or renal toxicity). Thus, OOCs are envisioned as tools for late preclinical safety evaluation, screening out candidates with human-specific toxicity before clinical trials
### Translational PK/PD and Precision Medicine
OOCs are especially promising for **predicting individual patient responses**, supporting the emerging field of personalized medicine. They allow the use of **patient-derived cells**, including tumor biopsies and ex-vivo microtissue tests. These systems can be used to test multiple therapeutic regimens ex vivo. For instance, *the* [*SliceChip setup*](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/pancreas-on-a-chip-study/) *permitted longterm culture of murine pancreatic islets, with comparable glucose kinetics and low shear stress in both chambers and allowed combined extracellular electrophysiology and insulin secretion analysis. The controlled perfusion enabled testing of glucose and aminoacid stimuli, making the system relevant for diabetes drug development.*
*Another use case of functional assays on organ-on-chip is cardiac organ-on-chip assay with Aria and live-imaging*:
[*Read further about the possibility of multi-parametric functional assay on cardiac OOCs*](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/calcium-transient-imaging-with-aria/)
## Regulatory and Policy Landscape for Organ-on-Chip Adoption in Drug Development
The global regulatory environment is undergoing a historic shift toward **human-relevant, non-animal testing methods**, and OOC platforms sit at the center of this transformation. While OOCs are not yet a full replacement for animal studies, the legal and policy landscape now strongly encourages their integration into the **drug development and testing pipeline**.
### United States: Policy Momentum Toward Non-Animal Testing
Recent U.S. legislation and FDA actions have accelerated the transition toward MPS, including OOCs. The FDA Modernization Act 2.0, signed on December 29, 2022, removes the decades-old requirement that drug sponsors rely on animal testing to meet preclinical safety standards \[12\]. Under this law, **New Approach Methodologies (NAMs)**, including OOCs, organoids, iPSC-derived tissues, and computational models, are explicitly permitted for generating preclinical safety and efficacy data. To implement the Act, the FDA established the **NAMs Program** in 2022, dedicating staff, infrastructure, and funding to evaluate and qualify non-animal technologies.
The **Innovative Science and Technology Approaches for New Drugs (ISTAND)** program is designed to qualify novel methodologies for specific regulatory contexts of use. One of the actions in 2024 was the acceptance of organ-on-chip technology designed to predict **drug-induced liver injury (DILI)**\[13\]**.**
In **2025**, the FDA publicly announced a multi-year plan to phase out animal testing requirements for monoclonal antibodies and other therapeutics, explicitly stating that:
*“Advanced cell-based models, organoids, and organ-on-a-chip systems will be incorporated as scientifically justified alternatives within preclinical development.”*
—FDA Press Release, 2025\[14\]
This roadmap provides a stepwise strategy for sponsors to integrate OOCs as part of preclinical packages, beginning with **context-of-use-specific qualification**, cross-validation with existing assays, and increased submission of OOC-generated safety data.
### European Union: Accelerating the Shift to Non-Animal Approaches
The EU has long been a leader in advancing ethical and scientifically robust alternatives to animal testing. Regulatory bodies increasingly promote the integration of OOCs, organoids, and MPS as part of a long-term strategy for phasing out animal use in research and safety assessment. European legislation mandates the **Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement (3Rs)** of animal experiments. This legal foundation underpins EU-wide initiatives to incorporate New Approach Methodologies, including organ-on-chip systems.
In **2021**, the European Parliament passed a resolution calling for a coordinated, EU-level roadmap to eliminate **animal testing in science**, agriculture, and regulatory safety.
This directive urged rapid adoption of:
- microphysiological systems
- organoids
- in vitro NAMs
- advanced computational modeling
In **late 2023**, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) issued a **concept paper** proposing updates to regulatory guidelines for safety testing and 3Rs methods. The document explicitly mentions OOCs and organoids as candidate platforms for NAM-based submissions.
EMA further supports:
- **Scientific Advice meetings** to guide NAM developers
- **Voluntary qualification pathways** for MPS and OOC assays
- Regulatory alignment with international agencies to encourage global acceptance
In **2025**, the European Federation of Pharmaceutical Industries and Associations (EFPIA) published a strategic document recommending:
- regulatory incentives for NAM adoption
- harmonization between EMA, FDA, and PMDA
- updated guidelines to accelerate the transition away from animal testing
## Future outlook
Looking ahead, the **organ-on-chip field** is undergoing a period of meaningful transformation. However, it is essential to highlight that neither the 3Rs framework nor current legislation implies that animal models are being fully replaced today in the long drug development journey. OOCs and other NAMs represent powerful yet complementary tools that are already being used alongside animal models in drug development. Regulatory momentum and technological maturity are now converging to make broader OOC adoption increasingly feasible.
With pressure-based flow systems expertise, we see daily how organ-on-chip success depends on more than engineering excellence alone. It requires multi-organ integration and automation, that is supported through consistent collaboration across pharma, academic researchers, regulatory agencies, and technology providers. This collaborative ecosystem will determine how quickly OOCs evolve from innovative research devices into standard components of preclinical workflows.
One major force shaping the future is the **transition toward whole-body microphysiological systems.** Connecting gut, liver, kidney, vasculature, and immune modules enables drug ADME to be studied in a way that **better reflects human systemic responses.** At the same time, the next decade surely will bring a decisive push toward [automation ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/automation-in-microfluidics/ "automation ")and industrialization. [Organ-on-a-chip perfusion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/), real-time monitoring, and standardized chip formats will enable reproducible, GLP-ready workflows. By reducing operational complexity, automation lowers the barriers for pharmaceutical teams to incorporate OOCs into discovery, ADME testing, and preclinical toxicology, delivering the predictability and robustness required for pharmaceutical adoption.
Finally, perhaps the most important driver is regulatory adoption. The FDA Modernization Act 2.0, the NAMs Program, ISTAND, and the parallel developments within the EMA mark the formal beginning of a new regulatory era. These policies do not eliminate animal testing, but they establish clear pathways for including OOC data in submissions and for validating chip-based assays for defined contexts of use.
In this evolving landscape, advice for industry and academia is clear: **begin integrating OOCs in targeted areas**. Build internal expertise, generate comparative datasets, and participate in validation efforts. The future of drug development will not be shaped by any single stakeholder but by collective alignment between biologists, engineers, regulators, and technology developers who share the goal of reducing reliance on animal models while increasing human relevance.
## Related Products
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### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
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### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
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## References
\[1\] J. Zuo, Y. Fang, R. Wang, and S. Liang, “High-throughput solutions in tumor organoids: from culture to drug screening,” *Stem Cells*, vol. 43, no. 1, p. sxae070, Oct. 2024, doi: 10.1093/stmcls/sxae070.
\[2\] V. Carvalho, M. Bañobre-López, G. Minas, S. F. C. F. Teixeira, R. Lima, and R. O. Rodrigues, “The integration of spheroids and organoids into organ-on-a-chip platforms for tumour research: A review,” *Bioprinting*, vol. 27, p. e00224, Aug. 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.bprint.2022.e00224.
\[3\] D. Sun, W. Gao, H. Hu, and S. Zhou, “Why 90% of clinical drug development fails and how to improve it?,” *Acta Pharm Sin B*, vol. 12, no. 7, pp. 3049–3062, Jul. 2022, doi: 10.1016/j.apsb.2022.02.002.
\[4\] “US – Research – Roadmap to Reducing Animal Testing in Preclinical Safety Studies | Animal Legal & Historical Center.” Accessed: Feb. 06, 2026. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.animallaw.info/administrative/us-research-roadmap-reducing-animal-testing-preclinical-safety-studies
\[5\] S. S. Bale, L. Moore, M. Yarmush, and R. Jindal, “Emerging In Vitro Liver Technologies for Drug Metabolism and Inter-Organ Interactions,” *Tissue Engineering Part B: Reviews*, vol. 22, no. 5, pp. 383–394, Oct. 2016, doi: 10.1089/ten.teb.2016.0031.
\[6\] G. A. Van Norman, “Limitations of Animal Studies for Predicting Toxicity in Clinical Trials,” *JACC Basic Transl Sci*, vol. 4, no. 7, pp. 845–854, Nov. 2019, doi: 10.1016/j.jacbts.2019.10.008.
\[7\] A. Granzotto, B. Vissel, and S. L. Sensi, “Lost in translation: Inconvenient truths on the utility of mouse models in Alzheimer’s disease research,” *eLife*, vol. 13, p. e90633, doi: 10.7554/eLife.90633.
\[8\] S. Sreenivasamurthy, M. Laul, N. Zhao, T. Kim, and D. Zhu, “Current progress of cerebral organoids for modeling Alzheimer’s disease origins and mechanisms,” *Bioeng Transl Med*, vol. 8, no. 2, p. e10378, Aug. 2022, doi: 10.1002/btm2.10378.
\[9\] D. E. Ingber, “Human organs-on-chips for disease modelling, drug development and personalized medicine,” *Nat Rev Genet*, vol. 23, no. 8, pp. 467–491, Aug. 2022, doi: 10.1038/s41576-022-00466-9.
\[10\] C. M. Leung *et al.*, “A guide to the organ-on-a-chip,” *Nat Rev Methods Primers*, vol. 2, no. 1, p. 33, May 2022, doi: 10.1038/s43586-022-00118-6.
\[11\] A. Y. Peng and B. E. Lee, “Microphysiological Systems for Cancer Immunotherapy Research and Development,” *Adv Biol (Weinh)*, vol. 8, no. 8, p. e2300077, Aug. 2024, doi: 10.1002/adbi.202300077.
\[12\] J. J. Han, “FDA Modernization Act 2.0 allows for alternatives to animal testing,” *Artif Organs*, vol. 47, no. 3, pp. 449–450, Mar. 2023, doi: 10.1111/aor.14503.
\[13\] C. for D. E. and Research, “FDA’s ISTAND Pilot Program accepts a submission of first organ-on-a-chip technology designed to predict human drug-induced liver injury (DILI),” *FDA*, Sep. 2025, Accessed: Feb. 09, 2026. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/fdas-istand-pilot-program-accepts-submission-first-organ-chip-technology-designed-predict-human-drug
\[14\] O. of the Commissioner, “FDA Announces Plan to Phase Out Animal Testing Requirement for Monoclonal Antibodies and Other Drugs,” FDA. Accessed: Feb. 09, 2026. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-announces-plan-phase-out-animal-testing-requirement-monoclonal-antibodies-and-other-drugs
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
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### [Fluigent Research & Industrial Microfluidic Devices Catalog](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/catalog/microfluidic-devices-catalog/)
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### [The Importance of Recirculation in Microfluidic Systems: Principles and Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/importance-of-recirculation-in-microfluidic-systems/)
**Published:** December 16, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Overview of Microfluidic Recirculation
**Microfluidic recirculation** refers to a configuration in which fluid (e.g., cell culture medium or reagent) is circulated in a closed loop through a microfluidic chip or chamber constantly in the same direction. Single-pass flow configurations such as injection and perfusion are when the fluid from the reservoir through the chip, is discarded to waste.
Each of these set ups has their applications. Recirculation allows the same volume to pass repeatedly, which is advantageous when medium or reagents are expensive or limited. Simple **microfluidic perfusion** is advantageous for applications like [pancreas ex-vivo perfusion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/pancreas-on-a-chip-study/) or [single cell assays](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/).
Read further to find out different recirculation set-ups possible with [pressure-based technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/), main advantages and applications in cell biology.
## Main Advantages of Microfluidic Recirculation
When designing a recirculation setup, especially for life-science applications, these parameters are critical:
- **[Flow stability](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/ "Flow stability") vs. Pulsatility**: steady laminar flow matters for sensitive cells
- **Unidirectional flow with recirculation**: to simulate physiological perfusion, i.e. veins and arteries. This often requires active or passive valves to prevent backflow.
- **Medium volume vs cell volume ratio:** recirculation reduces the volume of medium needed. This can be important when medium is expensive or primary cells are limited. It also allows to amplify the secreted metabolites.
- [**Shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/): precision in flow control translates to shear stress control within microfluidic channels.
- **Sterility & maintenance:** recirculation benefits with a closed loop and maintaining sterile environment.
## Principles of Recirculation in Microfluidics
### How to set up the microfluidic circuit for recirculation?
In a pressure-based microfluidic setup, controlled recirculation is achieved by combining **valves, pressure controllers, and flow sensors** in a coordinated way. A common architecture uses **two 2-Switch™ valves**, one **Switch EZ™**, **two Flow EZ™ pressure controllers**, and **two flow sensors**.
The principle is similar to alternating traffic lights on a one-way street:
while one reservoir supplies fluid to the chip, the other is refilled. The system then switches roles, allowing the same liquid to circulate continuously in a single direction through the [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/).
The pressurized reservoirs and valves alternate automatically, ensuring **unidirectional flow** while enabling closed-loop recirculation within a single chip. An alternative configuration uses an **L-Switch™**, which follows the same principle but with a different valve geometry. Both configurations are supported by **pre-programmed functions in the [OxyGEN software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/ "OxyGEN software")**, allowing users (including beginners) to set up recirculation without advanced programming or fluidic expertise.
*Figure *1*: Recirculation package using 2-Switch™ configuration*
*Figure 2: *Recirculation package using 2-Switch™ and L-Switch™ configuration**
### Peristaltic pumps: why are they often not ideal?
Some workflows achieve recirculation using **peristaltic pumps**, which move fluid by repeatedly compressing flexible tubing. The fluid is pushed forward, but in discrete pulses rather than as a smooth, continuous stream.
Although this approach enables circulation between the same reservoir and the microfluidic chip, it has well-documented limitations. In peristaltic pumping, flow pulsation is directly linked to the rotor speed. While the *average* flow rate corresponds to the commanded setpoint, the instantaneous flow can exhibit oscillations up to 40% of the target flow rate.
These flow oscillations [can **disrupt shear-stress-sensitive cells,** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)**potentially causing membrane stress, cell detachment, or reduced cell viability**. As a result, peristaltic pumps are generally not well suited for applications that require stable, continuous laminar flow, such as vascular or endothelial models where shear stress must be tightly and reproducibly controlled.
Other technologies, such as **syringe pumps**, can also be used but come with important constraints, such as the finite syringe volume limits experiment duration, making them impractical for long-term studies and **slow flow stabilization** and poor responsiveness
Syringe pumps are typically better suited for **short, single-pass experiments** rather than recirculating systems.
[To read in depth comparison of various flow control technologies read this blog.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
### Automated integrated pressure-based platforms
#### Custom Platforms
Endothelial cell culture under controlled shear stress is one of the most common and demanding use cases for long-term recirculation with precise flow control.
In a study published in *Micromachines* (2022), a **pressure-driven perfusion system** was implemented using a custom-designed fluidic splitter to enable accurate, multiplexed recirculation for organ-on-chip applications. The system incorporated dedicated flow-rate measurement lines, validated the flow sensors, and demonstrated stable bead perfusion for 48 hours, confirming reliable long-term operation(1).
*Figure *3*: Pressure-based Custom-made Fluidic Circuit Board by Graaf N.S. (2022)*
#### Omi: Organ-on-Chip Fluidic Platform
The [Omi™ platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Omi™ platform") is designed specifically for **long-term recirculation and organ-on-chip experiments**. It integrates:
- Pressure sources
- Valves
- Pressure and flow sensors
- Optical level sensors for system validation
The system uses a sterile, consumable cartridge that includes check valves, enabling recirculation, perfusion, and injection steps within the same setup.
**Figure *4*: Omi for Long term Reciculation**
The Omi™ operates using Fluigent’s proprietary Smart Flow Technology, which pressurizes reservoirs to deliver reproducible, flow-rate-controlled recirculation. The OOAC system validated for over 7 days of continuous recirculation, while significantly reducing contamination risk and manual handling compared to traditional setups.
In practical terms, the system functions as a self-regulating circulation loop, continuously monitoring and adjusting flow conditions to maintain stable, physiologically relevant environments over extended periods.
## Key Applications of Microfluidic Recirculation in Life-Sciences
### 1. Organ-on-Chip (OOC) Controlled Shear Stress
Recirculation plays a critical role in organ-on-chip (OOC) systems by enabling **physiologically relevant dynamic environments**. Beyond providing a continuous supply of nutrients and oxygen, recirculation allows researchers to apply **controlled and sustained shear stress**, while maintaining a stable microenvironment for cells over extended periods.
Pressure-controlled recirculation is often preferred in OOC applications because it delivers **stable, low-pulsation flow**, which is essential for accurately reproducing physiological shear stress. Compared with peristaltic-based recirculation, pressure-driven systems offer improved flow stability and reproducibility, which is particularly important for shear-sensitive cell types such as endothelial cells.
A representative example is [the **artery-on-chip (AoC)** model](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/artery-on-a-chip-model/) developed by **Paloschi et al. (2023)**(2). In this study, endothelial cells (ECs) and smooth muscle cells (SMCs) were co-cultured under **high-shear conditions** to replicate arterial flow. The platform was used to investigate how changes in shear stress influence vascular structure and to evaluate the effects of the anticancer drug **Lenvatinib** on a multicellular arterial model.
*Figure *5*: Immunofluorescence staining of the AoC membrane showing ECs and SMCs labeled with their respective markers (PECAM for ECs and SM22 for SMCs). The AoC is connected to a microfluidic pressure controller (MFCS) to ensure precise flow regulation.(2)*
These results demonstrate that accurately reproducing **hemodynamic flow conditions on chip** is essential for understanding vascular pathologies, including **aneurysm formation mechanisms**.
Similarly, a study published in **Brain Sciences (2022)** optimized and adjusted shear stress parameters in a microfluidic intracranial aneurysm model. By fine-tuning flow conditions, the authors showed how shear stress influences vascular remodeling and disease progression in brain-specific contexts(3).
*Figure *6*: Schematic of an organ-on-chip recirculation setup using pressure-based flow control to achieve precise, stable shear stress in microfluidic channels.(3)*
### 2. Long-Term Culturing: Adherent Cells, Organoids and Tissue Models under Flow
For experiments lasting days to weeks, such as tissue differentiation, organoid culture, co-culture systems, recirculation conserves medium, reduces reagent costs, and maintains medium composition over time.
Beyond sustaining long-term organoid viability, controlled microfluidic perfusion also enables the integration of **immune components**, which play a crucial role in tissue homeostasis and disease response. Despite their importance, immune cells are still rarely incorporated into organ-on-chip (OoC) models.
Recent work has shown that culturing B and T lymphocytes within a 3D hydrogel microchip under continuous fluid flow can drive the formation of lymphoid follicles *in vitro*.
In this context, fluid flow was essential not only for follicle formation but also for preventing unintended immune cell autoactivation.
*Figure *7*: Differences observed on Lymph node on-a-chip. When Medium is perfused in upper channel*(4)**
### 3. Sample Enrichment for Analytical Assays
Recirculation enables low-volume, repeated exposure of cells or analytes to assay zones. For non-adherent or rare cells (e.g., leukocytes, circulating tumor cells, stem cells), recirculation conserves precious sample volume and allows repeated interaction with sensing or stimulation regions, improving assay efficiency.
In recent microfluidic platforms, recirculation has been used to keep **cells in suspension**, preventing sedimentation while repeatedly passing them through defined culture or analysis chambers. This approach has proven particularly useful for **immune cell assays and tumor–immune interaction studies**, where maintaining cell viability and avoiding unintended activation are critical. By combining gentle flow with closed-loop circulation, these systems enable prolonged observation, functional readouts, and repeated stimulation of the same cell population without excessive dilution or loss of rare cells.
## Conclusion
Recirculation is a powerful technique in microfluidic life-science applications, especially for organ-on-chip, long-term cell culture, and sample-limited experiments. When properly implemented, pressure-controlled recirculation enables efficient use of media and reagents.
## Related Instruments
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Related content
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Microfluidic Application Notes Liver–Kidney Organ-On-Chip Model using the Omi™ Dual Platform Read more
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Microfluidics Case Studies Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## References
1\. Graaf MNS de, Vivas A, Meer AD van der, Mummery CL, Orlova VV, Graaf MNS de, et al. Pressure-Driven Perfusion System to Control, Multiplex and Recirculate Cell Culture Medium for Organs-on-Chips. Micromachines \[Internet\]. 2022 Aug 20 \[cited 2025 Dec 15\];13(8). Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-666X/13/8/1359
2\. Paloschi V, Pauli J, Winski G, Wu Z, Li Z, Botti L, et al. Utilization of an Artery-on-a-Chip to Unravel Novel Regulators and Therapeutic Targets in Vascular Diseases. Adv Healthc Mater. 2024;13(6):2302907.
3\. Vivas A, Mikhal J, Ong GM, Eigenbrodt A, Meer AD van der, Aquarius R, et al. Aneurysm-on-a-Chip: Setting Flow Parameters for Microfluidic Endothelial Cultures Based on Computational Fluid Dynamics Modeling of Intracranial Aneurysms. Brain Sci \[Internet\]. 2022 May 5 \[cited 2025 Dec 15\];12(5). Available from: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3425/12/5/603
4\. Juste-Lanas Y, Hervas-Raluy S, García-Aznar JM, González-Loyola A. Fluid flow to mimic organ function in 3D in vitro models. APL Bioeng. 2023 Aug 4;7(3):031501.
Author: Anel, Dec. 16 25
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
**Published:** October 20, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## Tip 1: Reframe Your Experimental Question for the Organ-On-Chip Model Context
In murine models, the systemic environment including immune responses and metabolism are within the model. In OoC models they are deliberately recreated. When shifting to microphysiological models, it’s essential to grasp how fluid flow, [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/), and cell–cell/tissue–tissue interactions shape biological outcomes.
Aligning the research question with these parameters ensures that the model best utilizes the technology’s capabilities and generates physiologically relevant data.
**Parameters to define your biological aim:**
- Are you modeling barrier function, inflammation, drug metabolism, or intercellular signaling?
- Do you aim to replicate a single organ or multi-organ physiological interactions?
- Will you use primary cells, immortalized cell lines, or patient-derived iPSCs?
*Figure *1*. Organ-on-chip Models Design Parameters to Consider*
## Tip 2: Avoid Over-Engineering: Balance Complexity and Biological Relevance
Early-stage applications often benefit from a simpler setup. Overly complex designs, for example with multiple organs, hydrogel compartments, and branched perfusion, could obscure key biological questions and overcomplicate interpretation. We advise to ‘Start simple’. **Single-organ chips** tend to be easier to fabricate and maintain, while **multi-organ systems** (body-on-a-chip”) demand precise inter-organ flow control and shared media composition.
**With a dual-organ system,** [**drug toxicity**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/) can be studied., A combined liver-heart model can uncover off-target drug effects but requires **controlling flow**, [**perfusion**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/) and nutrient delivery \[1\].
1. **Design pragmatically**
Tailor your model to your available lab equipment and infrastructure (incubators, microscopes, temperature controller).
2. **Leverage exiting technology**
Recent advances allow researchers to use [commercially available chips,](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/) reducing dependence on PDMS-based soft lithography and difficulties with chip assembly.
**Note:** Some applications benefit from specific materials and fabrication methods
- **Glass chips:** ideal for hypoxia or chemical resistance studies.
- **PDMS chips:** useful for oxygen permeability and mechanical deformation.
***Read further:*** [*How to choose a microfluidic chip?* ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ "How to choose a microfluidic chip? ")
*Figure *2*. Representation of Single-organ system (Vessel-on-a-Chip) and Multi-organ system (Body-on-a-Chip) \[3\] \[4\]*
The long-term vision of Organ-on-a-Chip Models is to develop an integrated ‘human body on a chip’ that replicates inter-organ communication and whole-body physiology. Current research shows that single and dual organ models form foundations for this goal\[2\]. Starting with barrier models such as the or [brain-blood barrier](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/) or [vessel-on-a-chip model](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/artery-on-a-chip-model/), enables precise control of the microenvironment and robust validation of physiological relevance. Focused platforms are a first step towards scalable, multi-organ systems that could replace animal models in disease research and toxicity testing.
## Tip 3: Align design to physiology
The **development of an Organ-on-chip model** begins with identifying the physiological process to be studied. Tissues are generally categorized into four main types, based on cellular organization, function and ECM characterization:
- **Epithelial Tissue**: cell sheets for protection and barrier function
- **Connective Tissue**: rich in ECM, support function
- **Muscle Tissue**: contractile fiber for generating movement and pressure
- **Nervous Tissue**: excitable neurons for signal transmission
*Figure *3*. The four types of tissues are exemplified in nervous tissue, stratified squamous epithelial tissue, cardiac muscle tissue, and connective tissue in small intestine from \[5\]*
It is important to integrate organ-specific microenvironmental cues, for example endothelial barriers for vasculature and organ-relevant ECM scaffolds.
**1. Key Organ Functions and Microenvironments:**
Design your chip around the core physiological processes you want to study depending on the organs and mechanisms involved. Examples of integrated physical cues that drive physiological functions:
- **Vascular models**: Apply controlled laminar flow and shear stress (1–10 dyn/cm²) across [endothelial barriers](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/) to promote alignment and tight junction formation.
- [**Kidney**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/)**-on-chip**: Use perfused tubular channels with epithelial–endothelial co-cultures and ECM scaffolds to mimic reabsorption and selective permeability.
- 3D hydrogels or [organoid cultures](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidics-in-advanced-organoid-modeling/) are used to promote natural morphology, function, and cell-cell interactions
Ensuring that physical and biochemical cues are consistent with the target organ physiology can increase the predictive relevance of the model.
## Tip 4: Select Robust Fluidic Control Systems
Nearly all **Organ-on-Chip designs** include some media perfusion for media refreshment and support of the dynamic environment. Cell culture protocols similar to conventional *in vitro* systems can be adapted, but the addition of controlled flow enables nutrient renewal and mechanical stimulation. Using compartment-specific media and low-serum or defined formulations often reduces experimental variability.
Here links of the relevant product:
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
**Flow control technologies:**
**[Pressure-driven flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/ "Pressure-driven flow control")** is particularly relevant for Organ-on-Chip systems, as it enables stable, pulse-free perfusion that closely replicates physiological fluid dynamics. These systems achieve **rapid stabilization (<1 ms)** and **high reproducibility (<0.1% CV),** ensuring that cells experience **consistent shear stress and nutrient delivery**.
In contrast, syringe pumps generate pulsatile flow (~0.35% CV) and slower response times, which can introduce mechanical artifacts and variability in cell responses. By integrating feedback-controlled pressure regulation, researchers can finely tune flow profiles, oscillations, and temporal gradients, allowing precise simulation of biological rhythms such as vascular pulsation or periodic drug exposure—key factors in achieving physiologically relevant organ-on-chip models.
***Read further on the*** [***pressure-based systems in organ-on-chip research***.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/ "pressure-based systems in organ-on-chip research.")
## Tip 5: Employ Continuous Analytics \_ From Organ-on-a-chip to Lab-on-chip
Embedding analytical capabilities within Ooac systems enhances data quality and interpretability. Sensors for oxygen, pH, and transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) can be incorporated to monitor the microenvironment in real time. Perfusate samples can be analyzed using ELISA, HPLC, or mass spectrometry to quantify metabolites or cytokines or other effects of drug exposure. PDMS and glass chips generally support optical transparency, enabling live-cell and confocal imaging.
Routine calibration, bubble prevention, and stable flow maintenance contribute to system reliability. Long-term control and measurement of flow rate, pressure, and cell viability is often necessary to ensure reproducibility.
**Summary Table**
**Aspect** **Traditional Model** **Organ-on-Chip Equivalent** **Adjustment Needed** Biological Context Whole organism (mice) Isolated functional unit Focus on microphysiology Environment Control Self-regulated Engineered (flow, shear, O₂) Develop microfluidic control Complexity Intrinsic Designed Begin simple, expand as needed Cell Source Mouse / 2D lines Human / iPSC / 3D Increase physiological fidelity Readouts Endpoint (blood/tissue) Continuous, real-time Integrate sensing and sampling Validation In vivo physiology Microphysiological mimicry Cross-validate across systems
Start with a small, well-defined physiological question that bridges your existing mouse data and new organ-on-chip models. This approach will maximize interpretability and accelerate your understanding of how OoCs can *complement*, not just replace, your current research pipeline.
## Related content
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Microfluidics Case Studies Creating a Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform using Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
## References
1\. Ferrari E, Visone R, Monti E, Torretta E, Moretti M, Occhetta P, et al. LivHeart: A Multi Organ-on-Chip Platform to Study Off-Target Cardiotoxicity of Drugs Upon Liver Metabolism. Advanced Materials Technologies. 2023;8(8):2201435.
2. Ingber DE. Human organs-on-chips for disease modelling, drug development and personalized medicine. Nat Rev Genet. 2022 Aug;23(8):467–91.
3. Paloschi V, Pauli J, Winski G, Wu Z, Li Z, Botti L, et al. Utilization of an Artery‐on‐a‐Chip to Unravel Novel Regulators and Therapeutic Targets in Vascular Diseases. Adv Healthcare Materials. 2024 Mar;13(6):2302907.
4\. Miller PG, Shuler ML. Design and demonstration of a pumpless 14 compartment microphysiological system. Biotechnol Bioeng. 2016 Oct;113(10):2213–27.
5\. Kabelik D. Unit 6: Tissue Structure and Functions. 2024 Aug 30 \[cited 2025 Oct 17\]; Available from:
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to Flow Control Technologies in Microfluidics
### Why is it important to precisely control the flow?
In microfluidics, we aim to control the flow of fluids through channels with sub-millimeter dimensions in order to perform various kind of experiments, such as monodisperse [droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/) or [organ-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) studies. In order to generate robust and reproducible data, precise control over the flow parameters is required: for example, the flow rates applied in the system will define the [dimensions of the produced droplets](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/), or generate a specific shear-stress on the cells, affecting their growth, spatial organization, and protein secretion. An error in the flow rates applied to the system can lead to polydisperse droplets, unstable systems, damaged cells, and more generally, to the failure of the experiment. Complete and reliable flow control is therefore essential in any microfluidic system.
### What are the main microfluidic flow control technologies?
Various technologies, relying on different mechanisms, allow for fluid injection into microfluidic channels. However, they do not all provide the same level of control, as they rely on different physics:
- Applying pressure to fluids in a sealed container with a fluid outlet. The fluids will move because of the pressure difference, according to a simple relation, similar to Ohm’s law for electricity (V=RI): In the case of fluid flow, P=RQ. The fluidic resistance is a function of the geometry of the channel and the viscosity of the fluid. For more information, [visit our microfluidic resistance page. ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/ "visit our microfluidic resistance page. ")
- Using volumetric control with [syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/volumetric-control-technologies/ "syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps"). Here the principle is to use a mechanical movement that modifies a volume to apply a flow rate. For syringe pumps, the syringe volume and the infusion rate can be modified to achieve different flow rates.
- Other techniques, such as electro-osmotic pumps or integrated micropumps, are used for more specific needs and are described below \[1\].
To achieve the best results in flow-based microfluidic experiments, it is important to consider the following elements:
- The flow rate or the pressure range you need.
- How quickly you need to set or change the flow rate.
- How stable you need the flow rate to be.
Based on these methods, different microfluidic flow control techniques and technologies are available to manage microfluidic flows.
## Selecting the right microfluidic pump
The main flow control solutions can be divided into three categories: [volume displacement](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-volume-definitions/) (such as syringe or peristaltic pumps), pressure-based solutions (such as the [**Flow EZ™**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/flow-ez/)), and passive techniques.
### Strengths and weaknesses of each flow control technology
This pump selection guide shows the advantages and disadvantages of each method of fluid delivery in Microfluidics to help you choose the right one for your microfluidic application \[2\].
#### 1. Fluid volume displacement in microfluidics
Fluid volume displacement, a common technique in microfluidic flow control, uses mechanical parts to directly displace a certain volume of fluid. The two main types of pumps using this approach, the peristaltic and the syringe pump, allow the user to control flow by indicating a flow rate as an input.
**1.1. Syringe pump**
Syringe pumps are good for the injection of small volumes, but they are less precise than pressure pumps, particularly at very low flow rates. A wide range of quality and prices are available on the market.
In microfluidic flow control, syringe pumps are based on a mechanical system actuated by a stepper motor, which pushes a syringe at a precise rate, allowing for a wide range of flow rates. However, the mechanical actuation can generate flow pulsations and have long response and settling times, particularly in the presence of air bubbles, viscous liquids, and compliant tubing.
Additionally, the actual flow rate within the system is not monitored, which can lead to bias if flow rate orders are not reached due to leakage, clogs, or incorrect set-up. The pressure is also not controlled, and if the microsystem becomes clogged, the pressure can rise to damaging levels. The text advises users to regularly check for blockages, particularly when using microparticles, and to be aware of the potential limitations of the technology when automating experiments.
Syringe pumps in microfluidics have strengths and weaknesses. Some of them are listed below:
**Strengths of microfluidic syringe pumps**
- High limit of pressure (depending on syringe material)
- No variation of the syringe rate
**Weaknesses of microfluidic syringe pumps**
- Pulsatile flow
- Control of the flow in dead-end channels is impossible
- Difficult to determine the exact pressure inside of the microfluidic component
---
**1.3. Peristaltic pump**
Peristaltic pumping is based on the compression and the relaxation of flexible tubing. Rotating rollers pass along the tubing fitted inside the pump and compress it, creating a vacuum in the tubing and pulling the fluid along. This method of fluid actuation may be used in microfluidic laboratories and is rather inexpensive.
In microfluidic flow control, peristaltic pumping is a good option for large volumes and high flow rates, as well as for fluid recirculation. However, the compression of the tubing induces pulses in the flow, which is not suitable for most microfluidic applications where flow precision is important. Moreover, the flexible tubing should be changed regularly to prevent tube damage.
**Strengths of peristaltic pumps for microfluidic flow control**
- Easy to setup
- Large quantities of sample can be injected
**Weaknesses of peristaltic pumps for microfluidic flow control**
- Low reproducibility of the experiment
- The flow rate is not constant due to stretching of the tubing
---
#### 2. Pressure-Driven Flow Controller Solution
Fluid actuation by pressure-driven flow controllers consists of [pressurizing reservoirs](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/) containing the sample so it is then rapidly injected into a microfluidic device. The size of this reservoir is very flexible, ranging from 1.5/2ml Eppendorf tubes to 15/50ml Falcon vials and even larger bottles of several hundred milliliters.
To achieve microfluidic flow control, the controlled gas pressure pushes the fluid, which then flows through the reservoir outlet. Due to the excellent regulation provided by gas pressure controllers, these systems can achieve [highly stable flow rates](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/ "highly stable flow rates") from sub-nanoliter/min to tens of milliliter/min (for example, Fluigent [**MFCS-EZ™**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) and [**LineUp™**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) have resolutions as low as 7×10-3 mbar). Moreover, users can control the flow rates directly if a [flow sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/) is coupled with the [pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). The pressure will be adjusted via powerful algorithms such as Fluigent FRCM and DFC. In addition, fluid recirculation is possible with valves ([**see Fluigent valve solutions**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/)) coupled to the pressure controller.
The main advantage of pressure pumps is that the user can pressurize multiple reservoirs with only one pressure channel. This can significantly [reduce the cost of your setup](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-perfusion-with-pulse-free-flow-with-one-manifold/) if you want to inject different solutions sequentially.
For instance, all our MFCS™ series offer settling times down to 100ms and a resolution of 0.03% full scale (pressure sensor resolution), as well as a stability of 0.1% CV on measured values.
Pressure pumps in microfluidics have strengths and weaknesses. Some of them are listed below:
**Strengths of pressure pumps in microfluidics**
- Pulse-free flow control : there is no oscillation flow
- Both pressure and flow rate control in one device
- Very good stability : 0.005%
- Controls of the flow in dead-end channels is possible
- Ability to determine the exact pressure inside of the microfluidic component
**Weaknesses of pressure pumps in microfluidics**
- Limited to 8 bars
- Flow switches with multiple entry points can potentially cause back flow
---
#### 3. Passive methods for microfluidic flow control and microfluidic flow measurement
**3.1. Electro-osmotic pump**
The principle is to create an electro-osmotic flow in a porous medium made of glass. An electric potential is applied between the porous media (up to several kV) and a flow rate is generated depending on the liquid’s ionic strength. The main advantage is that there are no moving parts, and the pump can be controlled directly with an electric signal. The main drawback is that it works only with water or alcohol with ionic species. The relation between the flow rate and the applied voltage depends on the ionic force; in practice, it can only be used for liquids with constant chemical properties, and calibration is needed.
**3.2. Using hydrostatic pressure**
This is the simplest way to move fluids: the basic idea is to put the inlet reservoir higher than the outlet reservoir in order to let gravity force move the fluid from the inlet to the outlet, just like a water tower.
---
#### 4.Integrated micropump
In microfluidic flow control, several kinds of integrated micropumps exist, mostly based on a peristaltic principle with flexible membranes made of PDMS. The flow rate range is typically low, but can reach 10 to 100uL/min. The main advantage is the ability to control fluids down to the pL (10-12 L) range. It is particularly useful for applications where a very small quantity of fluid is to be tested. Integration into the microsystem involves complex steps of micromachining and requires a dedicated design specific to the desired application.
**Overall, to make the best choice concerning the microfluidic flow control technology that best fits your experiment, it is important to consider the following elements:**
- **The flow rate or the pressure range you need.**
- **How quickly you need to set or change the flow rate.**
- **How stable you need the flow rate to be.**
## Microfluidic Flow Control: Advantages and disadvantages of each type of microfluidic pumps
Peristaltic PumpSyringe PumpPressure driven Pump**Flow stability**BadMediumExcellent**Response time**LowLowExcellent**Precision**BadMediumExcellent**Volume limitation (for the liquid to be injected)**No (you can use open reservoirs)Yes (depends on the syringe volume)No (you can use big bottles)**Fluid recirculation**PossibleNot PossibleNot Possible (But you can use the[ L-switch](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/ " L-switch") (recirculation valve)**Injection of small volume sample**BadGood (use very small volume)Medium (difficult for less than 10µL)**Gas injection**NoNoYes**Sample agitation**Possible (as the sample is in separated reservoir)Not PossiblePossible (as the sample is in separated reservoir)**Sample T°C control**Possible (you can put the reservoir in thermal bath)Not PossiblePossible (you can put the reservoir in thermal bath)**Possibility to create (program) complex flow profile**NoNoYes [(LineUp Series)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/ "(LineUp Series)")**Flow pressure control**NoNoYes **Flow rate control**Yes (need calibration)Yes No (possible if you add a [flow sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/ "flow sensor"))**High flow rates**Yes Not suitable as it is difficult to refill the syringeYes **Forward and Back flow**Yes Yes (depends on the model)Yes (but needs to pressurize the outlet too)**Hydrostatic pressure influence**NoNoYes (there is a lot of tips and tricks to avoid it)
## Tips for improving your pressure pump
Multiple solutions are offered in the microfluidic universe to help you to monitor your setup and your pressure pump. Fluigent has developed a large range of products to allow you to construct your system in a modular fashion.
If you want to use your pressure pump to:
- **Control Flow Rate**: you can add a [microfluidic flow sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) that will measure the flow rate. Moreover, some [software packages ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/ "software packages ")are available to allow you to adjust the pressure until you reach the desired flow rate.
- **Stop the flow into the microfluidic chip**: one can add a [switch ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/ "switch ")to the setup that can rapidly stop the flow in the microfluidic device without any backflow or residual flow.
- **Improved flow switching**: Switches can be added to the setup to allow for changing between two or more fluids. Those microfluidic valves are available with a large range of possibilities in terms of port number and allow one to employs multiple techniques such as sorting and recirculation.
- **Monitor and control pressure**: it’s possible to add a pressure generator to the microfluidic pressure pump to control the pressure inlet
- **To obtain monodispersed droplets**: you can add a [surfactant ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/ "surfactant ")to your samples in order to have long term stable microdroplets and to increase their frequency.
## Tips for improving your microfluidic setup
Some common issues are encountered when running a setup. Microfluidic experts have developed tools to solve those problems and help you to have the most efficient setup possible.
If you want to :
- **[Avoid bubbles in your microfluidic setup](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/avoid-air-bubbles/ "Avoid bubbles in your microfluidic setup")**: gas bubbles in a liquid sample are a common problem encountered in numerous microfluidic experiment, and their removal in the sample of interest is quite often a major challenge for microfluidics. Indeed, gas bubbles circulating through a microfluidic system can damage equipment or the biological sample of interest and cause experimental errors. Multiple accessories are available on the microfluidic market such as our [Bubble Trap Kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/ "Bubble Trap Kit") or [Degasser](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device/ "Degaser").
- **Hand-free operation**: tools are available to start/stop the flow or switch configuration of microfluidic devices with your foot.
- **Automate your setup**: The automation of your setup is possible thanks to some software tools that are able to monitor every compatible component of the setup.
- **Unique software:** has been designed to facilitate your manipulations and allows you to monitor your microfluidic devices in real time.
- **Integrate microfluidic component to your setup**: use [OEM (Original Equipment manufacture) products](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/ "OEM (Original Equipment manufacture) products") to integrate them in your setup or devices.
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [
### Microfluidic OEM
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/)
- [Expertise### Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
## Choosing the right materials for microfluidic chips
Since its introduction, microfluidics has continued to advance along with technology and to expand its fields of application. Along with other areas, biological and medical applications are a major focus of current research. In terms of materials and functions, while glass and silicon have important uses, **polymeric materials have become the [material of choice](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ "material of choice") in this field**. They each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Though [PDMS](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) is still the most commonly used microfluidic material substrate for [microfabrication of chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/ "microfabrication of chip"), new materials and composites with interesting features are being developed to make them a better fit for mass production, with lower prices and greater adaptability.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### How to choose a microfluidic chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfabrication of Microfluidic Chips: Materials and Methods
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
## Flow Rate Measurement in microfluidics
In microfluidic flow control, live flow monitoring can be achieved using flow sensors. The solution sold by Fluigent is called the [**Flow Unit**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/frp-flow-rate-platform/), and can be used with the FRP or directly with the LineUP series for direct flow rate control.
There are an immense variety of microfluidic flow sensors based on different principles of physics. Not all of them are suitable for flows in microchannels. Choosing the right microfluidic flow meter for the desired flow regime and fluid is critical for accurate measurements. The following sections will describe some of the main technologies used for flow measurement. These solutions can be divided into thermal and non-thermal approaches.
### 1. Thermal sensors for flow measurement in microfluidics
One of the most common microfluidic flow control technology is based on the calorimetric method.
A micro heater supplies a minimal amount of heat to the medium monitored (around 1°C). Two temperature sensors located on either side of the heater detect any temperature variation. The flow rate is then calculated based on the spread of heat, which is directly related to the flow rate.
This method of monitoring the flow is one of the simplest and least intrusive. It is quite easy to integrate in MEMS devices, since very small heaters and sensors already exist. Nevertheless, this microfluidic flow control technique requires knowledge of the fluid’s density and specific heat capacity. These values also need to be constant for the sensor to function properly. In biological experiments, the presence of cells or particles in the fluid might affect the fluid properties and affect the measurement.
Several other thermal flow meters exist and function in a similar way \[3\]. The hot wire flow meter uses a resistor as heater and sensing element. Because the resistance is dependent on the temperature, a relationship can be established between applied voltage, temperature and resultant resistance. Other sensors use so-called “time-of-flight sensing”. This microfluidic flow control technique, illustrated in the figure, uses only one sensor that is located downstream of the heater. By observing the heat distribution over time, it is able to deduce the fluid velocity and thus the flow rate.
### 2. Mechanical flow sensors for flow measurement in microfluidics
One of the most important categories of non-thermal flow measurement techniques is mechanical flow sensors. Since flow is usually laminar in microfluidics, laws to calculate the drag force on the channel walls and the pressure drop in the direction of flow are known. Both drag and pressure drop are directly related to the flow velocity. By using piezoresistive transducers or integrated pressure sensors, it is possible to deduce the flow velocity and thus the flow rate in the sensor \[4\].
### 3. Coriolis mass flow meters in microfluidics
The use of mass flow meters in microfluidic flow control is growing as the technology continues to improve for use with microscale flows. In a mass flow meter operating on the “Coriolis principle”, the fluid flows on a vibrating channel. The Coriolis force acting on the moving fluid will affect the frequency, phase shift or amplitude of the initial vibration proportionally to the mass flow rate.
The main advantage of Coriolis mass flow meter is the independence between the measured flow rate and the properties of the liquid. These sensors can monitor gas or oil flows without any specific calibration. However, the technology remains expensive and the small inner diameter of the fluidic path might not be suitable for biological experiments.
### 4. Other technologies for flow control or flow measurement in microfluidics
Apart from mechanical technologies, there are also many other non-thermal solutions for flow measurement. Some of them involve optics, acoustics or electrochemical phenomena.
## Conclusion
We have seen that there are a variety of flow rate control solutions when it comes to flow control and flow measurement. Our goal in this review was to show the strengths and weaknesses of the main technologies used in microfluidics. For flow control, the main solutions used in microfluidics are mechanical or pressure-based. Mechanical solutions allow for direct microfluidic flow control, but do not control the pressure that is applied to the fluid and lack stability. **Pressure-based solutions ensure higher stability and faster response times**, and can even **monitor and control the flow rate** directly with the help of an additional flow sensor. Many different microfluidic flow sensor technologies have been studied and developed. The two main categories are thermal and mechanical sensors. Depending on the desired flow rates and regimes, users must evaluate the right choice of sensor for each experiment.
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Injection Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- Expertise
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Expertise Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### A Microfluidic Pressure Controller Comparison for Your Ultimate Fluid Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controller-comparison/)
## References
1. Beebe, D. J., Mensing, G. A., & Walker, G. M. (2002). Physics and applications of microfluidics in biology. *Annual review of biomedical engineering*, *4*(1), 261-286.s. Lab on a Chip, 2008
2. Li et al, Lab Chip 2014, 14, 744
3. Jonathan Kuo et al, Micromachines 2012, 3(3), 550-573
4. Nguyen, Flow Measurement and Instrumentation, 1997, 8(1), 7-16
**Catégories de ressource:** Advantages of Pressure-Based Microfluidics
---
### [A Rapid and Target-Specific Exosome Isolation Method Using Aptamer-Based Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/exosome-isolation-method/)
**Published:** December 8, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## A paper from Shenzhen Institutes of Advances Technology
**Paper:** Zhou, Z.; Chen, Y.; Qian, X. Target-Specific Exosome Isolation through Aptamer-Based Microfluidics. *Biosensors* **2022**, *12* (4), 257. .
This study was conducted at the Shenzhen Institutes of [Advanced Technology (SIAT)](http://english.siat.cas.cn/), Chinese Academy of Sciences. SIAT is recognized for its multidisciplinary innovations in microengineering, materials science, and biomedicine. The institute integrates fundamental research, applied development, and technology translation, serving as a hub for advancing scientific knowledge and interdisciplinary collaboration.
## Overview of Extracellular Vesicles Isolation and Analysis
### The Biological Importance of Exosomes
Exosomes are **nano-sized extracellular vesicles** (typically 30-150 nm) released by nearly all cell types (Figure 1). They transport proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids, playing essential roles in intercellular communication. Their molecular content reflects the physiological or pathological state of the parent cells, which makes them useful as **biomarkers** for cancer, inflammation, or neurodegenerative disorders (Figure 1-2).1–4
*Figure *1* Biogenesis of exosomes and other vesicles*4**
*Figure *2* Schematic of exosomal molecular composition*4**
### Challenges and Limitations of Current Exosome Isolation Methods
Due to their small size and the coexistence of multiple extracellular vesicle types of EVs, the isolation of exosomes is challenging. Traditional exosome isolation methods like ultracentrifugation, size-exclusion chromatography, or precipitation often result in low purity, have long processing times and limited specificity for subpopulations.5,6
Microfluidics, combined with engineered surface chemistry, is an emerging **exosome isolation technique** capable of improving speed and selectivity.
### Aptamers as Precision Molecular Recognition Tools for Exosome Isolation Methods
Aptamers are short DNA or RNA oligonucleotides that fold into complex 3D structures, enabling selective binding to molecular targets such as proteins, peptides, or specific EV subpopulations (Figure 3).7
*Figure *3* Schematic diagram of aptamer recognition of targets to form an aptamer target complex*8**
Compared to antibodies, aptamers offer several advantages such as chemical and thermal stability, high molecular specificity, and ease of surface functionalization (Figure 4).
*Figure *4*. Advantages of aptamers over antibodies in clinical applicability and industrialization.*8**
These features make aptamers ideal candidates for integration into systems designed for **advanced exosome isolation**.
## Aim of the Study
The goal of the study was to develop a **target-specific microfluidic platform** for rapid, high-purity exosome isolation using aptamer-functionalized microchannels capable of:
- Selectively capturing exosomes expressing the surface markers **CD63** and **PTK7**, which serve as reliable identifiers of specific exosome subpopulations
- Enhancing EV isolation specificity, purity, and throughput, while demonstrating aptamer-based microfluidics as a promising platform for future diagnostics such as liquid biopsy and disease-specific EV profiling.
## Methodology: Aptamer-Functionalized Microfluidic Exosome Isolation Method using Stable Flow Control
### Aptamer-Based Capture Strategy
The aptamer-based capture strategy was designed as an advanced **isolating method for** **exosomes**, integrating molecular recognition with controlled microfluidic flow.
The microfluidic chip uses a surface coated with streptavidin and desthiobiotin-aptamers to selectively bind exosomes carrying CD63 or PTK7 markers. As the sample flows through the channel, these aptamers capture the target vesicles while allowing non-specific particles to pass.
A two-zone chip layout supports this process by using a micropillar zone that filters out larger debris and a capture channel that maximizes contact between the flowing sample and the aptamer surface (Figure 5). This design provides cleaner and more selective isolation of exosomes under controlled flow conditions.
*Figure *5*. Aptamer-based exosomes isolation microfluidics. (A) Immobilization of aptamer onto glass surface for EVs capture. (B) Prototype of PDMS/glass chip. (C) Scanning electron microscope (SEM) image of micropillars inlet. The scale bar is 500 μm.*
### Exosome Isolation Method using a Pressure-Driven Flow Controller
A lung cancer cell culture supernatant was processed through the microfluidic chip using a nitrogen-driven, pressure-controlled flow with **[Fluigent MFCSTM](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/web_mfcs.png.webp "Fluigent MFCSTM")** (Figure 6). The flow rate and residence time (approximately **10 min**) were [precisely regulated](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/ "Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor"), ensuring reproducible exosome capture under [low-shear conditions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/ "low-shear conditions"). After incubation, captured vesicles were eluted in PBS using the same stable pressure source.
For comparison, an identical sample was purified using a commercial isolation kit, providing a benchmark for yield and quality.
**Figure *6*. Experiment setup for exosome isolation**
## Results: Faster Isolation of Exosomes with Enhanced Specificity and Structural Integrity
### Morphology of the isolated exosomes
Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) confirmed that the isolated exosomes maintained the expected **cup-shaped** morphology. Vesicles appeared intact, with sizes in the typical **100-200 nm range** (Figure 7). Both imaging methods confirmed that pressure-based microfluidics preserve vesicle structure during capture and elution.
*Figure *7*. TEM and AFM imaging of exosomes isolated by aptamer-based microfluidics.*
### Size distribution and yield
Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) was performed and compared with the commercial kit. The NTA results are illustrated in Figure 8. Across different cell culture passages, the chip and kit produced similar overall particle concentrations. The chip-isolated vesicles exhibited a smaller mean diameter, closer to the expected 30-100 nm exosome range and a narrower and more uniform size distribution.
The aptamer-based platform achieved a capture efficiency of **10⁷-10⁸ particles/mL**, slightly lower than the commercial kit, but the microfluidic method produced a purer and more size-specific exosome population.
**Figure *8*. NTA of exosomes by using aptamer-based microfluidics and commercial kit. (****A****) Averaged concentration/size distribution of exosomes collected from cell culture supernatant (passage-6) by using commercial kit. (****B****) Averaged concentration/size distribution of exosomes collected from cell culture supernatant (passage-6) by using our device.**
### Exosomal marker expression (CD63 and PTK7)
Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) measurements of CD63 and PTK7 markers showed higher protein levels in chip-isolated samples compared to kit controls. This indicates:
- More selective capture of true exosomes
- Better enrichment of vesicles carrying the target markers
- Reduced contamination from larger and non-specific EVs
## Conclusion
Aptamer-based microfluidics delivers a fast, selective, and high-purity **exosome isolation method**, offering a strong alternative to traditional EV separation techniques. The study from the Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology demonstrates that aptamer-functionalized microchannels, combined with Fluigent’s stable pressure-based flow control, enable efficient capture of specific exosome subtypes with excellent structural integrity.
Moreover, the entire workflow requires only about 20 minutes, far faster than the hours needed for ultracentrifugation, while maintaining high marker richness and minimal processing bias.
This rapid and robust isolation strategy is fully compatible with clinical and point-of-care use, supporting applications in liquid biopsy, cancer detection, and advanced biomarker analysis. This work highlights the growing role of pressure-driven microfluidics in enabling reliable and clinically ready exosome isolation workflows.
## Discover our range of flow control instruments
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Precision Microfluidics for Magnetic Nanoparticle Encapsulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/magnetic-nanoparticle-encapsulation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Microfluidics-Interfaced Capillary Electrophoresis for Continuous Analysis of Nanoparticle–Bioentity Interactions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidics-interfaced-capillary-electrophoresis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Giant Unilamellar Vesicles (GUVs) Production using Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/giant-unilamellar-vesicles-production/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
References
(1) Lai, J. J.; Chau, Z. L.; Chen, S.-Y.; Hill, J. J.; Korpany, K. V.; Liang, N.-W.; Lin, L.-H.; Lin, Y.-H.; Liu, J. K.; Liu, Y.-C.; Lunde, R.; Shen, W.-T. Exosome Processing and Characterization Approaches for Research and Technology Development. *Adv. Sci.* **2022**, *9* (15), 2103222. https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202103222.
(2) Li, X.; Corbett, A. L.; Taatizadeh, E.; Tasnim, N.; Little, J. P.; Garnis, C.; Daugaard, M.; Guns, E.; Hoorfar, M.; Li, I. T. S. Challenges and Opportunities in Exosome Research—Perspectives from Biology, Engineering, and Cancer Therapy. *APL Bioeng.* **2019**, *3* (1), 011503. https://doi.org/10.1063/1.5087122.
(3) Tzng, E.; Bayardo, N.; Yang, P. C. Current Challenges Surrounding Exosome Treatments. *Extracell. Vesicle* **2023**, *2*, 100023. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.vesic.2023.100023.
(4) Chen, J.; Li, P.; Zhang, T.; Xu, Z.; Huang, X.; Wang, R.; Du, L. Review on Strategies and Technologies for Exosome Isolation and Purification. *Front. Bioeng. Biotechnol.* **2022**, *9*. https://doi.org/10.3389/fbioe.2021.811971.
(5) He, C.; Zheng, S.; Luo, Y.; Wang, B. Exosome Theranostics: Biology and Translational Medicine. *Theranostics* **2018**, *8* (1), 237–255. https://doi.org/10.7150/thno.21945.
(6) Zhang, Y.; Bi, J.; Huang, J.; Tang, Y.; Du, S.; Li, P. Exosome: A Review of Its Classification, Isolation Techniques, Storage, Diagnostic and Targeted Therapy Applications. *Int. J. Nanomedicine* **2020**, *15*, 6917–6934. https://doi.org/10.2147/IJN.S264498.
(7) Wolter, O.; Mayer, G. Aptamers as Valuable Molecular Tools in Neurosciences. *J. Neurosci.* **2017**, *37* (10), 2517–2523. https://doi.org/10.1523/JNEUROSCI.1969-16.2017.
(8) Sun, H.; Zu, Y. A Highlight of Recent Advances in Aptamer Technology and Its Application. *Molecules* **2015**, *20* (7), 11959–11980. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules200711959. v
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
**Published:** October 17, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
Sullender, Colin T., Adam Santorelli, Lisa M. Richards, Pawan K. Mannava, Christopher Smith, et Andrew K. Dunn.
« Using Pressure-Driven Flow Systems to Evaluate Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging ». *Journal of Biomedical Optics* 28, no 03 (11 mars 2023).
## What is a pressure-driven flow controller
A microfluidic pressure-driven flow controller is used for the manipulation and regulation of fluid flow within microchannels or microfluidic devices using pressure differentials. Microfluidics is a field of science and technology that deals with the behavior, manipulation, and control of small volumes of fluids, typically on the microliter (10-6 liters) to nanoliter (10-9 liters) scale, within microscale channels or devices.
In microfluidic systems, **precise control over fluid flow** is crucial for various applications, including lab-on-a-chip devices, biomedical diagnostics, drug delivery systems, chemical analysis, and more. Pressure-driven flow control is one of the fundamental methods for achieving this control.
Overall, microfluidic pressure flow controller plays a crucial role in the miniaturization and automation of lab processes. It helps by using less samples and reagents, analyzing faster, and improved experimental control.
## What makes pressure driven flow systems different than syringe pumps
To flow liquids with [**syringe pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/), a mechanical force is applied to the plunger of the syringe at a regulated speed, which is controlled by a rotating lead screw and a stepper motor. This system produces **oscillations in flow** with varying frequency and magnitude due to imperfections of the lead screw and motor, which therefore **affect the flow stability**. In addition, syringe pumps present **a slow responsivity** and can take a long time to achieve programmed flow rates.Within a [**pressure-driven flow controller**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/), regulated gas pushes liquids from a reservoir through the microfluidic device at a **constant flow rate**. This operation eliminates the use of a lead screw and thus providing a **stable flow and fast** response.
## Why flow precision is a key parameter for research applications
The lack of high responsivity and stability when using **syringe pumps** generates **uncertainty and flow noises** while conducting experiments. These flow-related errors impact the reliability of the **measuring or imaging technique** used in the study.
**Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging (LSCI)**, for example, is an optical imaging method that is commonly used to visualize changes in blood flow. However, in order to obtain accurate results, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate the performance of this technique beforehand.1 This evaluation is typically carried out by studying the flow of substances within a microfluidic device. Despite the need for high precision, repeatability, and stability in the flow during tests, a survey of more than 20 LSCI studies conducted since 2015 revealed that syringe pumps were used in most experiments (90%).2
**The fluctuation in the flow** produced by the syringe pumps can be **incorrectly interpreted** as flow changes induced by the studied experimental conditions. This also affects the reproducibility and efficiency of the imaging system towards its applications. In this perspective, **Sullender *et al****.* quantified in this paper **the uncertainty for a syringe pump and our pressure driven flow controller** (Fluigent MFCS-EZ) for LSCI.2
Figure 1 Example of a human cortex captured by a surgical microscope and the corresponding speckle contrast image1
## Flow comparison between syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
To evaluate the efficiency of the pressure-driven controller**,** the [**MFCS-EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) was used to pressurize a **microfluidic reservoir (Fluiwell-1C)** filled with a blood-mimicking solution**. A flow sensor (**[**Flow Unit**](https://store.fluigent.com/products/flow-unit/) **– Range L)** was installed between the reservoir and the LCSI monitoring microfluidic chip. The pressure-driven controller was automatically regulated through **MAESFLO control software (latest version:** [**OxyGEN**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/)**)** based on the flow sensor’s feedback.
**Two flow profiles** were predefined to assess the **flow** **repeatability and flow reproducibility** of the system. By applying them, the blood-mimicking solution circulates from the microfluidic reservoir through the flow unit, in which the flow rate can be measured, to the microfluidic chip coupled to LSCI, in which the relative flow can also be detected.
Figure 2 Schematic of the microfluidic flow assessment setup
Similarly, a **syringe pump system** was connected to the flow sensor instead of the MFCS-EZ and the microfluidic reservoir. A 10-mL plastic syringe was filled with a blood-mimicking solution. The syringe pump was programmed to run the **same predefined flow profiles.**
Based on the flow measurement and profile*,* the repeatability and reproducibility were evaluated in the pressure-driven control system and the syringe pump by calculating their **expanded uncertainty ratio**.
## Results: A much stable and reproducible flow output with the pressure-driven controller
The **pressure-driven flow controller** accurately and steadily **matched the predefined programmed** flow speeds in both experiments with a rapid response time, whereas the **syringe pumps failed** not only in **accuracy** but also in **reproducing** the flow changes (evident in the flow profiles by the loss of the stair-stepped flow pattern). These results were also observed by measuring the flow through LSCI method *(fig.4).*
Figure 3 Flow sensor measurements for the syringe pump blue and pressure driven red flow systems compared to the ideal predefined flow black for one run of the a 3 step and b 13 step experiments
Figure 4 Relative flow measurements for the a syringe pump and b pressure driven controller as measured with the flow sensor blue and single exposure LSCI red
**Expanded Uncertainty (for repeatability and reproducibility) (%)**Flow speed (mm/s)2.43.64.8Syringe pump22.25.896.68Pressure-driven controller (MFCS-EZ)1.110.910.77*Table 1: Expanded uncertainties by flow speeds for the syringe pump and pressure-regulated flow systems.*
The **expanded uncertainty**, calculated through the standard uncertainties of flow repeatability and flow reproducibility, **confirmed the limitations of the syringe pump,** especially for small flow speed variations *(Table 1)*. For instance, it would be **impossible to reliably separate 22% of changes in relative flow from flow system noise** at the 2.4 mm∕s flow speed due to its uncertainty. This high percentage of uncertainty in flow generation would make it difficult to evaluate an optical system’s ability to detect small changes in flow, which is critical in blood visualization by LSCI. This limitation could be **unlocked** by using pressure-driven controllers, where **only 1.11% of uncertainty** is measured at 2.4 mm/s (compared to 22% for syringe pumps), and therefore any changes in the optical system measurement would not be caused by a flow system noise. This difference in uncertainty between syringe pumps and pressure-driven controllers was also marked for higher flow rates *(Table 1).*
## Conclusion
In this paper highlight, **Collin Sullender *et al****.*, from the Functional Optical Imaging Laboratory (University of Texas at Austin), **succeeded in quantifying the uncertainty in the flow** produced by a syringe pump and our pressure-driven flow controller. **Using our MFCS-EZ controller, a stable and repeatable flow was generated compared to the syringe pump.** Based on the obtained results, switching from syringe pump systems to our pressure-driven controllers is a key parameter **to eliminating flow-related errors** and producing **more reliable measuring and imaging flow techniques**. This approach **unlocks new opportunities** in terms of accurately evaluating and comparing imaging techniques (as also proved in this paper by comparing Laser LSCI and multi-exposure speckle imaging (MESI)).2,3
*Alos, learn about the efficiency of our LineUp and MFCS-EZ pressure-drive controllers for* [*droplet generation when compared to syringe pumps.*](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/#:~:text=We%20observe%20that%20the%20maximum,one%20droplet%20size%20to%20another.)
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Sensor Hub
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flowboard/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Micropipette Aspiration of Red Blood Cells Mechanosensitivity and Mechanics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/micropipette-aspiration-of-red-blood-cells/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References
**The full article:**Paper: Sullender, Colin T., Adam Santorelli, Lisa M. Richards, Pawan K. Mannava, Christopher Smith, et Andrew K. Dunn. « Using Pressure-Driven Flow Systems to Evaluate Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging ». *Journal of Biomedical Optics* 28, no 03 (11 mars 2023).
- (1) Kazmi, S. S.; Richards, L. M.; Schrandt, C. J.; Davis, M. A.; Dunn, A. K. Expanding Applications, Accuracy, and Interpretation of Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging of Cerebral Blood Flow. *J Cereb Blood Flow Metab* **2015**, *35* (7), 1076–1084. https://doi.org/10.1038/jcbfm.2015.84.
- (2) Sullender, C. T.; Santorelli, A.; Richards, L. M.; Mannava, P. K.; Smith, C.; Dunn, A. K. Using Pressure-Driven Flow Systems to Evaluate Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging. *J. Biomed. Opt.* **2023**, *28* (03). https://doi.org/10.1117/1.JBO.28.3.036003.
- (3) Parthasarathy, A. B.; Tom, W. J.; Gopal, A.; Zhang, X.; Dunn, A. K. Robust Flow Measurement with Multi-Exposure Speckle Imaging. *Opt. Express***2008**, *16* (3), 1975. https://doi.org/10.1364/OE.16.001975.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Article Reviews
---
### [Key considerations for fluidic system integration ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
**Published:** April 12, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Fluid considerations when integrating fluidics into your system
### How will pulsatile flow affect system performance?
**Droplet-based applications**: [**Droplet digital PCR**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/digital-pcr/) and [**cell encapsulation for single-cell analysis**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/) usually make use of droplets generated by microfluidic technology. These applications require liquid handling systems that produce flow with very low to no pulsation to obtain homogeneous droplets, which is vital for the success of these applications.
**Flow cytometry and surface plasmon resonance** (SPR) are based on real-time analytical measurements of samples passing by a detection area. They require a fluid handling delivery system with a stable flow rate to deliver fluids through the fluidic channels.
**Live cell imaging:** In live-cell imaging applications with fluid perfusion, pulsatile flow leads to variable shear stress imposed on cells, and may impact cell viability. Liquid flow should be stable and controlled.
In some applications, a steady flow rate is a prerequisite for reliable operation after fluidic system integration:
For these applications, pressure-based fluid delivery can deliver flow rates in the microliter- or nanoliter-per-minute range with a stable flow rate (high precision and accuracy) and no pulsation.
### Do you require fast settling times?
Some applications call for alternating between multiple different flow rates in a short period of time. This is common for flow cytometry, cell sorting, or fluorescent activated cell sorting (FACS). In the latter, 3 flow rate modes are usually available: slow, medium, and fast, and one can switch from one to another.
For fluidic system integration in applications like these, consider using a fluid delivery solution that allows for rapid response time (a few seconds). Pressure-based flow control has the advantage of having a [quasi-immediate response](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/). A step of several bars can be made within milliseconds, and the liquid flow rate reaction is equally fast, allowing the system to reach typical microfluidic flow rates in less than one second. This cannot be achieved by most motors used in syringe pumps, as revealed by the graph below.
### Is sterility required?
Many biological applications require a sterile environment, including cell culture under perfusion, immunostaining, organoid culture, organ on a chip, drug discovery, single-cell analysis and cell cytometry, among others. When using fluids such as culture media, PBS, buffers, blood or plasma, every component in the fluidic path should be disposable or sterilizable.
For these applications, pressure-based liquid delivery systems that do not contact fluids or have sterilizable components are ideal. As for liquid handling without flow rate monitoring, using pressure allows the system to use disposable tubing only between the inlet reservoirs and the application. At the fluidic system integration stage, however, you may want to plan for the ability to monitor or control the flow rate. The question of sterility arises when choosing the flow rate metering solution. Most flow sensors are too costly to be considered as disposables, yet are in contact with the fluids. A [non-intrusive flow sensing technology](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/) is a particularly interesting way to tackle this issue.
### Do you need to handle multiple fluid streams?
Multiple streams are useful for operations that perform several tests simultaneously, such as [drug screening](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/applications/drug-discovery/) where different drug candidates are tested, or personalized medicine applications that make use of tumor biopsy studies. It is also sometimes convenient and cost-effective to separate a fluid originating from one liquid delivery system into two distinct paths.
It’s important to choose the right liquid delivery system when designing for multiplexing. Depending on your choice, an increased number of systems may be highly expensive, and fluidic system integration can be cumbersome. Using fluidic [valves ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/)or quake valves can also be an interesting alternative, as they allow for fluid management with a reduced number of fluid delivery systems.
### What are the volumes to be dispensed?
The volumes to be injected are highly application-dependent. For instance, in cell biology applications such as cellular imaging or dynamic cell culture, fluids may be injected over a period of several days. In these applications, high reservoir volumes (up to 1 L) are required. Another option could be recirculating media or reagents with a peristaltic pump, a [recirculation valve](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-l-x/) or a [fully integrated solution](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/ "fully integrated solution"). Conversely, drug screening applications may make use of expensive liquids, and only very small amounts of fluids should be used (< 100 µL).
Depending on the liquid delivery method used in the fluidic system, reservoir size can affect precision and accuracy. For example, when using syringe pumps, smaller syringes maximize accuracy for small volumes but require frequent refilling for larger volumes. Larger syringes will increase capacity, but will lose accuracy and become pulsatile at lower flow rates. Using a [peristaltic pump](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/) for fluid recirculation is relatively uncomplicated.
### Do you need to control or measure flow rate?
For most liquid delivery applications, the user wants to set a desired flow rate and have a solution to reach it via fluidic system integration through use of a feedback loop algorithm. Syringe or peristaltic pumps give easy access to the real time volumetric flow rate, but pressure controllers do not.
To overcome this, the user can add a flow sensor to the configuration that can either be connected to the pressure controller for flow rate control, or used for monitoring only. There are several [flow sensing technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/microfluidic-flow-sensing-technologies/) based on different approaches, each with their respective advantages and limitations. The best choice for a given application depends on your requirements with regard to response time, chemical compatibility, flow rate range, cost, footprint and other parameters. For microfluidic applications in particular, one must also be cautious about channel and fluid interactions, the formation of bubbles, and multi-phase flows, although these can be neglected at a larger scale.
## Important considerations when integrating fluidics into your system
### Time to market?
In a fast-growing market sector, it’s crucial to minimize time-to-market and launch new technologies before the competition. To accelerate development, consider pre-built components or solutions, such as liquid handling components that can be integrated quickly into your system or prototype. Fluigent’s standard and customizable liquid handling [OEM components](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/) offer flexibility and ease of integration into your device. Using a readymade solution avoids the hassle of dealing with multiple fluid handling issues and leaves you more time to focus on your core expertise and application.
If you need expertise in fluidic system integration and are looking for a company that can do it for you, choose one that’s reactive, communicates with its customers, and can respect short timelines to achieve your desired launch date. At Fluigent, [we design and manufacture all of our products under one roof](https://youtu.be/opRgkZB1pP4) at our headquarters in the Paris region. Our R&D and production teams work closely with each other and with our customers to ensure maximum satisfaction.
### Do you have all the resources needed for in-house development?
Handling fluidic system integration by yourself is an option when developing an automated liquid handling system. The conception, design and development of the system will require engineering expertise in the mechanical, electrical, software and manufacturing domains.
When developing a system internally, you need to be sure you have the experience and engineering knowledge to translate your proof-of-concept device into a reliable and efficient automated system. The entire product development process is at risk if you are missing any of the required resources.
## Related expertises & ressources
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Food Industry: Food Testing & Agriculture
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Water analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/water-treatment/)
- [
### Compact All-In-One Microfluidic Micropump
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-supply-pressure-flow-control/)
- [
### Webinar- Flow Control in Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-control-in-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Industrial / OEM Expertise
---
### [Automation in Microfluidics: Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback Loops](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/automation-in-microfluidics/)
**Published:** November 7, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## From manual challenges to automated solutions in microfluidics
Traditional microfluidic experiments require constant adjustments to maintain stability in pressure or flow rate. Manual calibration introduces variability and slows down workflows, reducing experimental throughput and reproducibility. Even small variations can affect mixing efficiency, shear stress, or cell viability, which are critical in applications like **organ-on-a-chip** and **long-term cell culture**
**Automation in microfluidics** addresses these challenges by combining precise hardware with intelligent software control. Pressure controllers, valves, and flow sensors work together with real-time feedback algorithms to continuously monitor and adaptatively correct experimental parameters. When deviations occur, the system adjusts in real time, maintaining the target flow or pressure without any user intervention.
*Figure *1*. A control system for automated operation of microfluidic devices*1**
Fluigent is leading this transition toward **automated microfluidic systems**. Its suite of instruments, including the LineUp Series, MFCS Series, and Aria, enables **automated and remote-controlled fluid handling.** These platforms allow users to execute complex microfluidic protocols with minimal supervision, ensuring reproducibility and reducing human error.
To extend this flexibility even further, Fluigent provides a dedicated [Software Development Kit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/) (SDK) for advanced automation and system integration. The SDK enables the precise control of all Fluigent instruments through custom programs written in **Python, LabVIEW, C++, C#, or MATLAB**. The SDK includes practical examples ranging from basic operations, such as reading sensor data or setting pressure *(fgt\_get\_sensorValue, fgt\_set\_pressure*), to more advanced routines involving synchronized regulation and valve control. These examples make it easy to design customized automated workflows and integrate Fluigent devices into larger laboratory systems.
[Learn more about SDK ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
## Real-time monitoring and feedback loops: enabling smart and adaptative microfluidics
At the core of automation in microfluidics lies the ability to **monitor and adjust conditions in real time**. By using integrated pressure and flow sensors, automated systems can detect deviations instantly and correct them through **closed-loop feedback control**, ensuring stable and reproducible experimental conditions.
Fluigent’s [OxyGEN](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) software plays a central role in this process. It continuously tracks pressure and flow rate from connected instruments and sensors, displaying them live while also adjusting system parameters. In an **automated loop**, OxyGEN can respond to any change, like clogging or fluid resistance, by automatically adjusting the pressure to maintain the target flow rate.
This process relies on Fluigent’s [Direct Flow Control](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/) (DFC) algorithm. By combining flow sensors with responsive algorithms, DFC continuously compares measured flow rates to desired setpoints and dynamically adjusts the applied pressure to compensate for fluctuations. This **microfluidic feedback loop** ensures precise control even when environmental or sample conditions change, which is ideal for long-term perfusion or droplet-based applications.
***Figure *2*. Operating principle of the microfluidic flow rate control algorithm. Both pressure and flow rates are monitored, and DFC automatically adjust pressures to maintain the target values.***
Beyond simple monitoring, OxyGEN includes a **Protocol Editor** that automates complex microfluidic sequences. Users can create step-by-step routines directly within the software, define timing, loop operations, and conditional responses, and even simulate protocols before running them on actual hardware. This helps transform manual workflows into reproducible, automated protocols.
For example, in a **recirculation experiment**, OxyGEN controls valve positions to alternate flow direction and maintain constant fluid volume in the circuit during long-term cell culture. If flow resistance changes, DFC instantly compensates by adjusting pressure to maintain a stable rate. This fully automated feedback loop minimizes human intervention and ensures continuous, reliable perfusion over hours or days.
*Figure *3*. OxyGEN interface for recirculation protocol running*
*Figure *4*. Fluid going back and forth between the two reservoirs during recirculation*
Learn more about the [Microfluidic Recirculation System](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-microfluidics-through-automation/)
## Applications and case studies of automation in microfluidics
The impact of **automation in microfluidics** extends across multiple domains, from biomedical research to chemical synthesis. Automated microfluidic systems are transforming workflows by improving control over delicate biological or chemical environments.
### Organ-on-a-chip and cell culture
Automation is essential for maintaining stable physiological conditions in **organ-on-a-chip** and **cell culture** applications. Continuous perfusion replicates in vivo environments, ensuring cell viability and long-term stability.
Fluigent’s **pressure-based flow controllers**, combined with **OxyGEN** **software**, enable precise regulation of perfusion in real time over several weeks. Changes in flow resistance or fluid properties resulting from cellular growth are instantly compensated, maintaining optimal flow throughout the experiment.
For compact and fully integrated automation, the [Omi platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/) combines **pressure control, real-time monitoring, and adaptive feedback** in a single incubator-compatible device. Omi supports long-term cell perfusion and recirculation with minimal user intervention, ensuring reproducibility across experiments.
These automated systems have been successfully implemented in **multi-organ models**, demonstrating precise flow control across connected chambers to mimic inter-organ interactions.
****Figure *5*. Automated platform for long-term cell culture in tumor research with Fluigent components: I-LineUp Link Module; II-LineUp PushPull (±1000/–800 mbar); III-LineUp Switch EZ; IV-two Switch modules; V-three 15 mL Pressure CAP HP reservoirs.*2*****
Learn more on:
[Liver-Kidney organ-on-a-chip model using the Omi dual platform](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
[Microfluidic artery-on-a-chip using the MFCS](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/artery-on-a-chip-model/)
### Drug delivery and automated screening
In pharmaceutical research, **automated microfluidic workflows** enable **drug formulation, delivery, and screening** in a reproducible way. Fluigent’s [LineUp series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/), combined with OxyGEN software, allows for precise and automated preparation and delivery of drug formulations. For example, in the preparation of drug-loaded liposomes, automated control ensures consistent mixing ratios, flow rates, and encapsulation conditions, critical parameters for efficacy and size distribution.
This is especially valuable in **high-throughput drug screening**, where multiple compounds must be tested across varying concentrations and conditions. Automated systems can easily switch between solutions, maintain stable flow, and adapt to experimental feedback, ensuring reliable and repeatable results.
Learn more on:
[Drug-loaded Liposome preparation using microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/)
[Drug screening case study](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
### Automated immunofluorescence and staining protocols
Automated microfluidic systems have transformed how immunostaining and immunofluorescence assays are performed. Traditional staining requires manual pipetting, long incubation times, and precise timing, steps that can introduce human error.
Fluigent’s [Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) and [microfluidic valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) automate injection and rinse sequences with high precision. This ensures reproducible reagent distribution and saves valuable time.
**Automated immunostaining** is particularly beneficial for delicate samples such as neuronal or tissue cultures, where consistency in timing and reagent concentration is critical to obtaining clear, reproducible fluorescence signals.
Learn more on:
[Automated Immunofluorescence Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/)
[Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
### Droplet microfluidics
Droplet-based microfluidic workflows rely on precise synchronization between multiple fluid streams. Small flow variations can influence droplet size, frequency, or encapsulation efficiency.
Fluigent’s automated flow control solutions, using the **DFC** algorithm, ensure **stable and** **consistent droplet formation**, a key factor for **single-cell analysis**, **drug screening**, or **material synthesis**.
These systems simplify multi-channel droplet experiments, allowing researchers to run precise and long-term protocols with minimal supervision.
Learn more: [Encapsulation and culture for single cell sequencing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
## Future perspectives: From automation to artificial intelligence
The integration of **artificial intelligence (AI)** represents the next evolution in microfluidic control. AI-driven systems could analyze real-time sensor data, predict deviations, and adjust parameters before instability occurs, achieving predictive control instead of reactive feedback.
Recent studies demonstrate the feasibility of integrating **machine learning algorithms** with **automated microfluidic systems**. Machine learning models can already predict droplet size and optimize chip geometries in silico.3
By combining **data-driven algorithms**, **high-frequency sensors**, and **adaptive hardware**, next-generation microfluidic systems will autonomously make experimental decisions, monitor performance, and even design optimized workflows, marking a shift toward **intelligent, self-regulated microfluidic labs**.
*Figure *6*. The workflow of a developed design automation tool for flow-focusing droplet generators, called DAFD.*3**
## Conclusion
Automation in microfluidics is transforming how laboratories conduct experiments. By integrating **precision hardware**, **smart algorithms**, and **real-time feedback**, automated systems deliver consistency, scalability, and efficiency unmatched by manual operation.
Fluigent’s hardware and software ecosystem, including the **MFCS**, **Flow EZ**, **OxyGEN**, **DFC algorithm**, and **Omi** platform, exemplifies this transformation. Together, they create **fully automated and reproducible microfluidic setups**, enabling researchers to focus on science rather than system management.
## Discover our range of flow control instruments
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/)
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Rate Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-rate-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
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Product presentation videos
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Tutorial videos
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews An automated microfluidic platform for investigating mutation accumulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mutation-accumulation/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos MICROFLUIDIC VALVE AUTOMATION: How to make it easy \[SWITCH EZ\] – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valve-automation-how-to-make-it-easy-switch-ez-fluigent/)
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Tutorial videos OxyGEN Automations Protocols: Container Blocks for Loops and Conditions Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
References:
(1) Gonzalez-Suarez, A. M.; Long, A.; Huang, X.; Revzin, A. A Compact Control System to Enable Automated Operation of Microfluidic Bioanalytical Assays. *Biosensors* **2022**, *12* (12), 1160. https://doi.org/10.3390/bios12121160.
(2) Lacour, M.; Abdelwahed, A. B.; Azaiez, M.; Sciumè, G. Digitally Controlled Microfluidic System for 3D Cell Aggregate Cultures: Towards Advanced Modeling of Tumor Microenvironment. In *26e Congrès Français de Mécanique*; 2025.
(3) Lashkaripour, A.; Rodriguez, C.; Mehdipour, N.; Mardian, R.; McIntyre, D.; Ortiz, L.; Campbell, J.; Densmore, D. Machine Learning Enables Design Automation of Microfluidic Flow-Focusing Droplet Generation. *Nat. Commun.* **2021**, *12* (1), 25. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41467-020-20284-z.
(4) Liang, X.; Ouyang, M.; Brandon, N. P.; Xuan, J.; Wang, H. Automated Microfluidics for Efficient Characterization of Cyclohexanol Electrooxidation for Sustainable Chemical Production. *JACS Au* **2025**, *5* (3), 1340–1349. .
(5) Zhan, L.; Hinnen, H.; Gopinathan, K. A.; Toner, M. Autonomous Cryoprotectant Loading of the Oocyte Using Microfluidic Transistors. *Device* **2025**, *3* (6).
(6) Chargueraud, A.; Kool, L.; Fattaccioli, J. Fully Integrated Automatic Reusable Microfluidic Setup for Immobilization, Analysis and Non-Selective Release of Particles. arXiv June 22, 2025. .
(7) Amador-Hernandez, J. U.; Gonzalez-Suarez, A. M.; Stybayeva, G.; Caballero-Robledo, G. A.; Garcia-Cordero, J. L.; Revzin, A. An Automated Thermoplastic Microfluidic Device for Rapid Analysis of Microliter Volumes of Blood. *Available at SSRN 5192100*.
(8) Wang, X. Compact and Automated Multi-Solution Controller for Microfluidic Devices. PhD Thesis, Johns Hopkins University, **2025**. (accessed 2025-10-06).
(9) Osaid, M.; Marino Miguélez, M. H.; Baryak, B.; Özmen-Capin, B. B.; Özenci, V.; van der Wijngaart, W. Rapid Automated Isolation and Concentration of Bacteria from Blood Samples. *bioRxiv* **2025**, 2025–03.
**Catégories de ressource:** General Overview of Microfluidics
---
### [Micropipette Aspiration of Red Blood Cells Mechanosensitivity and Mechanics ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/micropipette-aspiration-of-red-blood-cells/)
**Published:** September 4, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Paper From the National Research Council of Italy
Braidotti, N.; Ciubotaru, C. D.; Rizzo, D.; Bergamo, L.; Bernareggi, A.; Cojoc, D., Investigating Mechanosensitive Channels Activation in Concert with the Mechanical Properties of Red Blood Cells. *Discov Mechanical Engineering* **2023**, *2* (1), 18. .
This study results from a collaboration between the **University of Trieste’s Departments of Physics and Life Sciences and the Istituto Officina dei Materiali (IOM)** of the **National Research Council of Italy (CNR)**. IOM conducts interdisciplinary research in condensed matter physics, nanoscience, and biophysics, focusing on nanoscale knowledge to develop advanced materials, biosystems, and devices. Its work integrates theory, synthesis, characterization, and nanofabrication, addressing national and European priorities in areas such as Health and Nanomedicine, Quantum Technologies, Climate and Energy, and Digital Industry.
## Introduction to Red Blood Cell Mechanics
Red blood cells (RBCs) transport oxygen to tissues and remove carbon dioxide, a task that requires deformability to navigate the narrow vessels of the circulatory system. This flexibility is sustained throughout their 120-day lifespan, aided by their biconcave shape, elastic membrane, and a cytoskeletal network of actin and spectrin proteins that resist bending and shear stress.1–5
Pathological conditions such as sickle cell disease, malaria, diabetes, and sepsis can disrupt these mechanical properties, impairing blood flow. To study such changes, techniques like micropipette aspiration, microfluidics, atomic force microscopy, and optical tweezers apply controlled forces to individual cells, allowing measurement of parameters such as Young’s modulus, bending modulus, membrane tension, and viscosity. Surface area and volume further aid in assessing RBC health and functionality.6
*Figure *1*: RBC characteristics (from Waeterschoot, J. et al. Nat Commun* ***2024****, 15 (1), 2504).*
## Ion Channel Regulation in Red Blood Cells
**Red blood cell (RBC)** volume is tightly regulated by the flow of Calcium (Ca²⁺), Sodium (Na⁺), and Potassium (K⁺) through membrane channels. A key channel is Piezo1, a large mechanosensitive protein that opens in response to membrane tension, allowing Ca²⁺ influx. This calcium entry activates the Gárdos channel, which causes K⁺ and water to exit the cell, reducing volume. Mutations in Piezo1 are linked to RBC dehydration disorders.3,7
Mechanosensitive channel function depends on external forces and the cell’s mechanical properties. These factors are often studied separately. New techniques combining fluorescence and brightfield imaging, micropipette aspiration of RBC’s with calcium monitoring, allow for the simultaneous analysis of mechanical stress and channel activity in individual RBCs, improving understanding of their interaction.8–11
*Figure *2*: Schematic presentation of the interplay of Gárdos channel and Piezo1 (from Petkova-Kirova, P. et al. IJMS* ***2024****, 25 (3), 1416).*
## Aim of the Study
In this study, a **bimodal imaging technique combined with micropipette aspiration** was utilized to simultaneously **monitor calcium channel activation** and **mechanical deformation in individual human RBCs.** Fluorescence Ca²⁺ imaging was employed to determine the activation pressure of mechanosensitive channels, while mechanical properties such as Young’s modulus, membrane tension, and viscosity were quantified by measuring cell deformation in response to controlled aspiration pressures. Validation of the method was performed by analyzing RBCs at three-time intervals (0–20, 20–40, and 40–60 minutes) after sample preparation, revealing dynamic changes in both channel activation thresholds and mechanical behavior.
## Webinar Replay
RBC Mechanics and Channel Activation by Micropipette Aspiration
Role of Piezo1 Channel Activity in RBCs and Its Link to Alzheimer’s Disease.
[Wtach the replay](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-rbc-mechanics-by-micropipette-aspiration/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-rbc-mechanics-by-micropipette-aspiration/)
## Materials and Methods
A combined [micropipette aspiration](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/micropipette-aspiration-package/) and bimodal imaging system was employed to simultaneously monitor mechanical deformation and calcium signaling in single RBCs. The setup incorporated the Fluigent Flow EZ pressure controller capable of regulating negative pressures from 0 to minus 60 mbar. This enables the gradual attraction of cells to the pipette tip and their progressive deformation into the capillary. The aspiration module was mounted on an inverted microscope equipped with a motorized stage, micromanipulator, and dual-sensor camera to capture both brightfield and fluorescence images. Pressure ramps, typically applied at minus 2 mbar/s, allowed sequential observation of cell tether formation and deformation.
*Figure *3*: Combined micropipette aspiration and bimodal imaging setup (from Braidotti, N. et al. Discov Mechanical Engineering* ***2023****, 2 (1), 18).*
All components, including the pressure regulation unit, illumination source, and camera, were synchronized via a digital acquisition system with custom control software, ensuring precise temporal correlation of pressure, mechanical deformation, and fluorescence data.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Micropipette Aspiration Package
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/micropipette-aspiration-package/)
Human RBCs were isolated from anonymized donor blood, stored at 4 °C, and used within three days. Following standard washing procedures, cells were incubated with a calcium-sensitive fluorescent dye, rinsed, and resuspended in physiological buffer for experiments. Samples were analyzed within one hour of preparation to evaluate temporal changes in mechanical and calcium signaling properties.
**Example of cell rupture inside the capillary as a consequence of high pressure levels (**from Braidotti, N. et al. *Discov Mechanical Engineering* **2023**, *2* (1), 18)
**Example of accelerated recording showing the deformation of an aspirated cell and relative fluorescent signalindicating Ca influx (**from Braidotti, N. et al. *Discov Mechanical Engineering* **2023**, *2* (1), 18)
## Key Mechanical Parameters and Activation Pressures in Micropipette Aspiration of RBCs
This table summarizes the main pressures and mechanical properties used to study RBC behavior during micropipette aspiration, based on pressure and fluorescence data.
**Parameter** **Description** **Formula / Definition****Fluorescence Signal (ΔF)** Normalized cell fluorescence corrected by background ΔFs = (Fs-F0) /F0
ΔF= ΔFs – ΔFb
where ΔFs: mean fluorescence in cell region of interest F0: baseline mean fluorescence; ΔFb: background fluorescence **Contact Pressure (Pc)** Pressure at first fluorescence elevation Initial pressure when cell touches pipette **Activation Pressure (Pa)** Pressure at second fast fluorescence elevation, triggering Ca²⁺ influx via mechanosensitive channels Pressure where fluorescence reaches ΔF=ΔFc+c×(ΔFm−ΔFc) with c=0.1 **Maximum Aspiration Pressure (Pma)** Pressure when fluorescence drops to 90% max (cell detachment) ΔFma=0.9×ΔFm **Young’s Modulus (E)** Cell elasticity (Pa) E=11.4×(ΔP/ΔL)×Dp**Cortical Tension (Tc)** Membrane tension (N/m) Tc=1.1×E×Dp**Tether Velocity (Vt)** Speed of membrane elongation (µm/s) Vt=ΔL/Δt **Cell Viscosity (ν)** Viscous resistance (Pa·s) ν= (Dp ΔP) / (12(ΔL/Δt)(1-Dp/Dc))With *:*
- ΔP= Pma−Pc
- ΔL= L−L0
- Dp = pipette diameter
- Dc = cell diameter
- L0, Lma = tether lengths at contact and max elongation
- Δt = elongation time
## Proof of Concept: Correlation Between Activation Pressure and Mechanical Properties in Human RBCs
The relationship between the pressure required to activate mechanosensitive channels and the mechanical properties of human RBCs was investigated using micropipette aspiration of red blood cells. Cells were grouped by time in the sample chamber: P1 (0–20 min), P2 (20–40 min), and P3 (40–60 min). A typical experiment is illustrated in Figure 4: panel (a) shows the pressure values Pc, Pa, and Pma derived from the differential fluorescence ΔF curve, and panel (b) displays bimodal images of cell morphology and fluorescence at two instants—cell contact and tether formation in the micropipette—indicating channel activation.
*Figure *4*: Example from micropipette aspiration of red blood cells:* ***a*** *Pc, Pa, Pma from ΔF curve.* ***b*** *Images show cell contact (left) and tether with increased fluorescence (right) (from Braidotti, N. et al. Discov Mechanical Engineering* ***2023****, 2 (1), 18).*
*Figure *5*: Activation Pressure distributions: P1 (red), P2(green) and P3 (blue) (from Braidotti, N. et al. Discov Mechanical Engineering* ***2023****, 2 (1), 18).*
The probability of channel activation as a function of pressure was fitted with a Boltzmann function (Figure 5), revealing lower P50 values for P1 compared to P2 and P3. Mean activation pressures increased with storage time, with a significant difference between P1 and P2, indicating a rapid decline in mechanosensitivity.
Mechanical parameters including Young’s modulus (E), cortical membrane tension (Tc), tether flow velocity (Vt), and viscosity (ν) were measured. Table 1 shows that E, Tc, and ν increased over time, while Vt decreased, reflecting short-term stiffening, higher viscosity, and increased cortical tension.
**Parameter** **P1 (0–20 min)**
**Mean ± SD** **P2 (20–40 min)**
**Mean ± SD** **P3 (40–60 min)**
**Mean ± SD** Activation pressure, Pa \[mbar\] 22.55 ± 11.3 24.76 ± 8.8 25.47 ± 11.5 Young’s modulus, E \[Pa\] 57.83 ± 46.3 67.24 ± 49.8 113.57 ± 48.4 Membrane tension, Tc \[pN/µm\] 96.7 ± 76.1 125.1 ± 87.5 187.4 ± 79.8 Tether velocity, Vt \[µm/s\] 1.13 ± 1.0 1.12 ± 0.9 0.54 ± 0.5 Viscosity, ν \[Pa·s\] 208 ± 204 277 ± 244 527.02 ± 331.5
Box plots and Wilcoxon tests (Figure 5) confirmed significant differences between P3 and the earlier pools, while P1 and P2 were similar. Changes in channel activation preceded measurable alterations in mechanical properties, suggesting early modulation by local membrane components, followed by cytoskeletal reorganization. These findings indicate that even short storage times in the chamber can substantially affect both RBC mechanosensitivity and mechanical behavior.
*Figure *6*: Box plots with Wilcoxon test p-values for mechanical parameters: Young’s modulus (a), cortical membrane tension (b), tether flow velocity (c), and viscosity (d). N indicates the number of cells (and responding cells) within the practical ranges (from Braidotti, N. et al. Discov Mechanical Engineering* ***2023****, 2 (1), 18).*
## Conclusion
This study introduces a bimodal microscopy method using the [Fluigent Flow EZ pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Fluigent Flow EZ pressure controller") for precise micropipette aspiration. This allows for the simultaneous measurement of mechanosensitive channel activation pressure and mechanical properties of red blood cells. Brightfield and fluorescence imaging tracked cell deformation and channel activity concurrently. Activation pressure changed earlier and stabilized before mechanical properties altered during one hour of storage.
These findings validated the method and were applied in research linking increased Piezo1 activity in RBCs to Alzheimer’s disease-related dementia, highlighting the clinical significance of mechanosensitive channels.12
[Read the full paper](https://doi.org/10.1007/s44245-023-00026-3)
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Micropipette Aspiration Package
Read more
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- [
### Webinar: RBC Mechanics and Channel Activation by Micropipette Aspiration
More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-rbc-mechanics-by-micropipette-aspiration/)
- [
### Webinar: Microfluidics Innovations in Diagnostics and Cancer Care
More information](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-microfluidics-innovations-in-diagnostics-cancer-care/)
## References
1\. Braidotti, N. *et al.* Investigating mechanosensitive channels activation in concert with the mechanical properties of red blood cells. *Discov. Mech. Eng.* **2**, 18 (2023).
2\. Besedina, N. A. *et al.* Persistent red blood cells retain their ability to move in microcapillaries under high levels of oxidative stress. *Commun. Biol.* **5**, 659 (2022).
3\. Cahalan, S. M. *et al.* Piezo1 links mechanical forces to red blood cell volume. *eLife* **4**, e07370 (2015).
4\. Gokhin, D. S. *et al.* Dynamic actin filaments control the mechanical behavior of the human red blood cell membrane. *Mol. Biol. Cell* **26**, 1699–1710 (2015).
5\. Li, X., Peng, Z., Lei, H., Dao, M. & Karniadakis, G. E. Probing red blood cell mechanics, rheology and dynamics with a two-component multi-scale model. *Philos. Transact. A Math. Phys. Eng. Sci.* **372**, 20130389 (2014).
6\. Peng, Z. *et al.* Lipid bilayer and cytoskeletal interactions in a red blood cell. *Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A.* **110**, 13356–13361 (2013).
7\. Syeda, R. *et al.* Piezo1 Channels Are Inherently Mechanosensitive. *Cell Rep.* **17**, 1739–1746 (2016).
8\. Mohi, S. M., Saadon, H. L. & Khalaf, A. A. Laser tweezers as a biophotonic tool to investigate the efficacy of living sickle red blood cells in response to optical deformation. *Biophys. Rev.* **13**, 173–184 (2021).
9\. Guck, J. *et al.* The Optical Stretcher: A Novel Laser Tool to Micromanipulate Cells. *Biophys. J.* **81**, 767–784 (2001).
10\. Barns, S. *et al.* Investigation of red blood cell mechanical properties using AFM indentation and coarse-grained particle method. *Biomed. Eng. OnLine* **16**, 140 (2017).
11\. Lee, M. Calculating the Difference in Stiffness of Living T Cells Through Micropipette Aspiration. *McKelvey Sch. Eng. Theses Diss.* (2023).
12\. Sitnikova, V. *et al.* Increased activity of Piezo1 channel in red blood cells is associated with Alzheimer’s disease‐related dementia. *Alzheimers Dement.* **21**, (2025).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
**Published:** November 23, 2023
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## Issues created by air bubbles
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) have revolutionized various fields including biology, chemistry, and medicine.\[1\] However, one of the common challenges faced in microscale fluidic experiments is the presence of air bubbles. In such intricate systems, simple taping of the finger to the device would not work. Their presence can significantly affect the performance and reliability of [microfluidic devices](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/), leading to inaccurate results or even device failure. This expertise page provides a comprehensive understanding of bubble-related challenges faced by researchers, offering insights into their sources, negative effects on experiments, and effective strategies to prevent and eliminate them from microfluidic setups.
## Where do air bubbles come from?
Bubbles can vary in size from a microscopical to a visible scale. In the context of microfluidic systems, they are typically small due to the microscale dimensions of the devices, but their impact can be significant. Gas bubbles can originate from various sources. Understanding their formation process is the first step towards developing strategies to prevent them from forming and improve the performance and reliability of the experiments.
### Dissolved Gases
One common origin of air bubble formation is the presence of dissolved gases in the liquid. Microfluidic experiments usually involve the movement of liquids that can create pressure differentials. High-pressure conditions within microchannels can contain significant amounts of dissolved gases. When pressure decreases, gas solubility diminishes, making the formation of bubbles more likely. Temperature changes can also influence gas solubility(figure1). For instance, when a liquid reagent is introduced directly from a refrigerated environment, it enters the system at a lower temperature than the fluids in the system, increasing the potential for bubble apparition.
Figure 1 Bubble Nucleation
Figure 2 a Cycle of bubble growth and detachment from a crevice nucleus in the presence of a flow bGrowth of a bubble nucleus in the presence of a flow2
Bubbles do not spontaneously emerge due to environmental changes alone. Minuscule irregularities found on the surfaces within the microfluidic system act as sites where tiny volumes of air can become trapped(figure2a). Under stable conditions, the trapped gas remains static. Yet, any perturbation in the surrounding liquid’s pressure can either dissolve the gas or induce a gas flux within the irregularity, causing the air pocket to grow(figure2b). It’s important to note that the nucleation point remains in the same location, giving rise to the possibility of new gas bubbles forming in the future.\[2\]
### Physical characteristics of microfluidic setup
The configuration of microfluidic platform also plays a role. Hydrophobic surfaces and surface roughness on channel walls can trap air pockets, creating sites for bubble formation. Some components within microfluidic devices, such as valves and pumps, may act as bubble generators during their operation. Abrupt changes in channel geometry such as sharp angles, corners, sudden expansions or contractions, can also induce pressure fluctuations, leading to generation of bubbles (figure 3).
Figure 3 Examples of structures that tend to generate air pockets
### Porous material
The introduction of air into your system doesn’t only occur during the filling step of channels or when there are leaks that allow air to enter. In fact, microfluidic components are often made from materials like polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), which are permeable to gases. Ambient air can pass through the device walls, leading to the gradual formation and accumulation of small bubbles within the liquid channels.
### Chemical Reactions and Fluid properties
Some chemical reactions used in microfluidic experiments can produce gases as a byproduct, resulting in the release of gases in the solution. Even the presence of surface-active agents, like [surfactants](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/), can either promote or inhibit formation of bubbles, depending on their concentration and properties.
## Troubles caused by bubbles
### Flow Instability
The presence of bubbles can disrupt the uniformity and consistency of fluid movement through microchannels, causing an important flow instability. This can lead to unwanted fluctuations in flow rate and pressure. Flow instability can compromise the reliability and reproducibility of experiments, affecting the accuracy and success of microfluidic processes.
Figure Fluid flow instability
### System Response Time
Bubbles can significantly affect the [response time of microfluidic systems](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/). When they enter the microchannels, they can create delays in system response. This is especially relevant in applications that require rapid changes in fluid composition, concentration, or flow rates. As a result, the overall efficiency and real-time control of microfluidic processes may be compromised.
### Clogging of Microfluidic Networks
The accumulation of bubbles in the setup can lead to physical blockages (figure 5). They become trapped in narrow channels, junctions, or [valve](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) openings, preventing the fluid from flowing through the device. This clogging prevents the system from functioning as designed, increases the time needed to reach pressure equilibration, and leads to the failure of many biological and chemical experiments. Clogging does not only prevent the progression of experiments but also necessitates time-consuming maintenance to clear obstructions.
Figure 5 3 D schematic of an air bubble spanning the entire cross section of a liquid perfused microchannel3
### Damage to Cell Membranes
In [biological applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/), air bubbles can damage cell membranes, affecting the viability and function of the cells. They present interfacial tension that can apply sheer stress on cells and even lead to cellular death (figure 6). Additionally, the interfaces between the gas bubbles and the liquid are an area where particles and proteins can aggregate, leading to artifacts in the experiment. These artifacts can interfere with the [measurement and analysis of the biological samples,](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/) reducing the accuracy and reliability of the results.
Figure 6 Dead adherent cells
### Experimental Interactions and Issues/Analytical Interferences
Air bubbles can alter chemical mixing by acting as physical barriers. These barriers prevent the chemicals from properly touching each other. As a result, the speed of reactions and the outcome are affected.
These tiny air pockets can also distort detection outcomes, causing inaccurate readings. They can obstruct current conduction and alter optical paths, impacting measurements and observations.
This can cause incorrect measurements of light absorption or fluorescence, leading to inaccurate data collection and interpretation. Furthermore, bubbles passing through microfluidic channels can damage the functionalization of the microfluidic wall, such as removing previously made chemical grafting.
## How to avoid air bubbles in microfluidics setup
### Design optimization
Optimize the design of microfluidic setups to minimize geometries that increase the probability of generating bubbles. Smooth transitions between different channel widths and shapes can reduce pressure fluctuations that trigger their formation. Additionally, ensuring correct installation and configuration of all system components can prevent air from entering the system.
Figure 7 Examples of structures contributing to bubble formation in microfluidic setups and alternative design 2
### Material Choice
To limit gas diffusion, choose materials with low gas permeability designed for microfluidic applications. To decrease the probability of bubble entrapment, opt for hydrophilic surfaces and apply treatments that enhance this property.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
### Flow Control
Implementing a [flow controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/), such as the Flow EZTM, into your setup ensures that pressure variations are minimal, reducing the risk of air bubble formation. By monitoring and adjusting pressure flow rate in microfluidic applications such as [droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/droplet-particle-generation/), users improve the overall reliability of the experiment compared to other methods like [syringes and peristaltic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/).
## Acting on bubbles
### **Active degassing**
There are different methods for degassing liquids, such as vacuum degassing, helium sparging or sonication\[4\]. However, these methods have some limitations, such as high cost, high maintenance, high noise, high waste, and/or low efficiency. A new solution that overcomes these limitations is using a [Degasser](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device). This device prevents the formation of unwanted bubbles and also removes already formed bubbles. It uses an innovative non-porous semi-permeable membrane that allows gas molecules to diffuse out of the liquid and into a vacuum chamber.
[
### Fluid Degassing Device for Microfluidic System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device/)
### **Passive bubble removing**
Incorporate a [Bubble trap](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/) to eliminate unwanted bubbles that are already traveling with the microfluidic system. It can be integrated into the microchannel design and is particularly effective for preventing them from reaching sensitive regions of the setup (such as [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)). Thanks to a hydrophobic micro-porous gas-permeable membrane (PFET) this trap is designed to capture and isolate visible bubbles from le water-based flow that may form during the experiment. When the fluid containing gas bubbles flows through the trap, they are expelled through the hydrophobic membrane that allows no aqueous liquid to leak.
[
### Bubble Trap
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Conclusion
On this page, we focused on the importance of addressing air bubbles in microfluidic systems. They can originate from various sources, potentially disrupting experiments and compromising data accuracy. To resolve this issue, we recommend optimizing system design, material selection, and [flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/). Additionally, using [degassing methods](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device) and incorporating [Bubble traps](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/) in the microfluidic setup can effectively prevent and remove bubbles. In essence, a combination of these strategies is essential to ensure reliable and accurate experiments.
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bubble Trap
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
[
### Bubble trap kit
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/bubble-trap-kit/)
[
### Compact Vacuum Pump
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/)
## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### How to choose a microfluidic chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic volume definitions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-volume-definitions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Microbubble formation using the RayDrop
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/)
## References
- \[1\] Lab-on-a-Chip: A Revolution in Biological and Medical Sciences., Analytical Chemistry 2000 72 (9), 330 A-335 A, DOI: 10.1021/ac002800y
- \[2\] Pereiro, Iago; Fomitcheva Khartchenko, Anna; Petrini, Lorenzo; Kaigala, Govind V. (2019). Nip the bubble in the bud: a guide to avoid gas nucleation in microfluidics. Lab on a Chip,
- \[3\] Zhao X, Ma C, Park DS, Soper SA, Murphy MC. Air bubble removal: Wettability contrast enabled microfluidic interconnects. Sens Actuators B Chem. 2022 Jun 15;361:131687. doi:10.1016/j.snb.2022.131687. Epub 2022 Mar 12. PMID: 35611132; PMCID: PMC9124586.
- \[4\] Int J Pharma Res Health Sci. 2020; 8 (4): 3195-202 3195; DOI:10.21276/ijprhs.2020.04.02; K Raval and H Patel
**Catégories de ressource:** Expertise, Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics, Droplet & Particle Generation
---
### [Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
**Published:** July 12, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to multiple emulsion encapsulation
### Limitations of traditional methods
Traditionally, multi-core double emulsions are produced using batch methods, with 2-step mixing of immiscible phases: a vigorous mixing step followed by a gentle one. This method is straightforward and allows for production of large batches, but is limited by a wide size distribution. This leads to a large number of particle sizes and a low encapsulation rate of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) or double emulsion production (core-shell particles).1
### Microfluidics for encapsulation of multiple emulsions
Microfluidics emerged in the 2000s as a powerful tool to overcome the limitations of batch methods that offers fine control over the size, monodispersity, and structure of droplets.2 In particular, microfluidics is useful for generating complex emulsions such as water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) or oil-in-water-in-oil (O/W/O) emulsions.
Based on the work of Li, E. Q. *et al*,3 a new tool called the Raydrop with the ability to provide controlled encapsulation of multiple emulsions was demonstrated by the scientific experts at Secoya technologies. These devices enable multiple applications that create [single](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/) and [double](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/) emulsions, and are of particular interest for creating solid microcapsules for triggered release1 or to co-encapsulate incompatible and cross-reactive solutions.4
In this application note, we demonstrate that we can use two Raydrops connected in series to produce multi-core double emulsions with precise control over droplet number and size.
## Generating multi-core double emulsions
### Reagents
**Core phase:**
- 2% Tween20 (Sigma-Aldrich) in water
**Shell phase:**
- Mineral oil light containing 2% ABIL EM 90 (Evonik) and 0.08% Bromocresol Purple (Sigma-Aldrich).
**Continuous phase:**
- Solution of 70% wt glycerol (>99.5%, Sigma-Aldrich) in water with 2% Tween20 (Sigma-Aldrich)
### Complex emulsion production platform
A fully integrated platform, developed by Secoya, was used to perform encapsulation of multiple emulsions. Mechanical, fluidics and optics modules are integrated to provide straightforward, user-friendly and controlled production of simple and double emulsions.
[More information on the platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
*Figure 1 Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Platform*
The experimental setup used for encapsulation of multiple emulsion is schematically represented in Figure 2. Here, a second RayDrop (R2) is placed next to the first RayDrop (R1).
*Figure 2 Experimental set up to produce double emulsions with multiple cores inside a single shell*
### Fluid reservoirs
ReservoirVolume (mL)PhaseCompositionF150Continuous70% glycerol + 30% water + 2% Tween 20F225Shell (priming & cleaning)Not used in this application noteF325ShellMineral oil light + 2% ABIL 90 + 0.08% BromocresolF425Core (priming & cleaning)Not used in this application noteF525CoreWater + 2% Tween 20
### RayDrop design
*Figure 3 Working principle of the RayDrop simple emulsion device*The [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) is a microfluidic droplet generator based on the alignment of two glass capillaries. The first capillary is terminated by a 3D printed nozzle and injects the droplet phase into the second one. At the junction of the two capillaries, the continuous phase filling the cavity pinches the jet of the droplet phase, leading to the formation of droplets with high monodispersity.
In this case, two RayDrop systems are arranged in series to perform encapsulation of multiple emulsions. A first device R1 is mounted on the platform as for simple emulsion generation, and a second Raydrop R2 is added immediately after (see figure 2). To efficiently control the formation of droplets inside the second RayDrop, an additional optical module (LED + camera) is placed on the platform.
The oil phase, containing the aqueous “core” droplets encapsulated in the R1 device, is transported as the “shell” phase (see Figure 4) towards the R2 device. Here, the oil phase is pinched by the continuous phase, which leads to the formation of monodisperse oil droplets, each containing multiple aqueous cores. The number of cores in each droplet can be controlled by tuning the flow-rates.
*Figure 4 Two RayDrop placed in a series their nozzle dimensions are displayed*
### Nozzle information
The range of droplet sizes formed depends on the dimension of both the injection nozzle and the collection capillary. The dimensions used for the encapsulation of multiple emulsions in this application note are reported below.
PartRayDropNozzle size (µm)Collection capillary size (µm)Inner diameter160150Inner diameter290450
*Table 1: Nozzle and collection capillary dimensions*## Multiple emulsion generation
To perform reproducible and monodisperse encapsulation of multiple emulsions, the protocol below can be followed:
1\. Set valve V2 on reservoir F3 containing the shell phase
2\. Set valve V3 on reservoir F5 containing the core phase
3\. Fill RayDrop R1 with the shell phase solution (refer to the user guide for more details on how to fill the RayDrop)
4\. Fill RayDrop R2 with the continuous phase solution
5\. Connect the two filled RayDrops together with the tubing
6\. Carefully set the continuous phase to a low flow rate (e.g. Qcontinuous= 40µl/min) and check that there is no backflow in the first RayDrop.
7\. Set the shell phase to a low flow rate (e.g. Qshell= 7µl/min with Qshell65 frames per second) and **live-cell incubation systems** to maintain 37 °C and 5% CO₂ throughout acquisition.
Functional performance parameters:
- **Contractility**: Brightfield microscopy tracks tissue displacement, contraction velocity, and beat frequency.
- **Intracellular Calcium:** GCaMP6f-based fluorescence provides high-fidelity calcium imaging readouts.
- **Electrophysiology:** The BeRST dye (FarRed) allows non-invasive action potential imaging.
These outputs are quantified using custom Python and MATLAB scripts reflect on the physiological measurable parameters to reflect the excitation-contraction coupling and action potential dynamics.
\*Garcia MI, Dame K, Charwat V, Siemons BA, Finsberg H, Bhardwaj B, et al. Human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes and their use in a cardiac organ-on-a-chip to assay electrophysiology, calcium and contractility. Nat Protoc. 2025 Apr 7; Available from: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-025-01166-4
## Protocol for Integration of Aria for Ca2+ Imaging Assay
Stage 5 of the protocol focuses on live imaging of cardiac microtissues to evaluate functional properties such as **contractility**, **intracellular calcium flux**, and **electrophysiology**. These microtissues are generated from hiPS cells expressing **GCaMP**(**a genetically encoded calcium indicator**), which enables direct visualization of calcium transients via fluorescence.
The protocol uses the **Aria automated perfusion system** to deliver a range of **extracellular calcium concentrations** during imaging. These concentrations, ranging from **0.125 to 2.0 mM Ca²⁺** (see Table 1 for exact dilutions) to trigger to test the contractility parameters.
**Table 1: Dilution for Tyrode’s Solution**
n**Stock solution** **Tyrode’s with Ca²⁺ (mL) C-7650F** **Tyrode’s without Ca²⁺ (mL) C-7651F** **Tyrode’s with Ca²⁺ working solution (mM)** **BeRST working solution (50 nM)** **Working volum**15 mM stock 11.5 20.250 mL 2.5 mL 2from dilution 1 1.251.25 10.250 mL 2.5 mL 3from dilution 21.251.25 0.5 0.250 mL 2.5 mL 4from dilution 31.251.25 0.25 0.250 mL 2.5 mL 5from dilution 41.251.25 0.125 0.250 mL 2.5 mL 65 mM stock500 µL19.5 0.125 No dye20 mL
**The set up illustrated in the Figure 1 minimizes bubble formation and protects the tissue by** maintaining uninterrupted microchannel flow. The prefill feature primes the system with experimental solutions. **Integration with imaging systems** and the electrical stimulating pacemaker on the microscope stage platform mimics relevant stressors and offers a robust, reproducible method for assessing the performance of cardiac microtissues in health and disease models.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2025/07/visuel-cardiac-ooc-aria-setup.jpg)*Figure 1: Integrating Aria with Cardiac OOAC on heated microscopy stage \*Adopted from the Supplementary Figure 4.*
**Cardiac OOAC device** is mounted onto a slide holder using double-sided adhesive tape to ensure stability during microscopy. The PDMS chip is connected via autoclaved stainless-steel connectors, which are directly inserted into the inlet and outlet ports of the device.
Tubing connections are configured as follows: **fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP)** tubing from the Aria automated perfusion system is connected to **polyetheretherketone (PEEK)** tubing. The **PEEK** tubing is inserted into flexible Tygon tubing, which is then connected to the PDMS chip via stainless steel needles.
For electrical pacing, alligator clips from the pacing unit are attached to embedded metal wires located at both the inlet and outlet of the cardiac OOAC. The entire system is placed on a **heated microscopy stage**, using custom plate holders to maintain the physiological **temperature of 37 °C** throughout the experiment.
**Aria control software** was used to program and execute **timed perfusion sequences**, ensuring consistent and repeatable exposure of the cardiac microtissues to **defined extracellular calcium concentrations.** Microscopy videos were acquired during the final 20 seconds of each perfusion step (steps 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10), following a 20-second period **of pre-conditioning via electrical pacing.**
*Figure 2: Aria Protocol Grouped by the Concetration of Tyrode’s Solution.*
For researchers interested in integrating this workflow with automated imaging systems, please see the following resources:
- For synchronization with **microscope control software (Zeiss ZEN)** is possible via TCP/IP communication. We explaine everything in our recent [webinar on high-resolution microscopy](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-for-high-resolution-microscopy/ "Webinar – Microfluidics Automation for High-Resolution Microscopy ") with Zeiss.
- To **manually set-up** TTL communication protocols, [read our application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/ "read our application note").
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Automated Immunofluorescence using Aria
Watch the Webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/)
## Results: Relevance to Cardiac Disease Modelling
The functionality of cardiac organ-on-a-chip (OOAC) systems was assessed using live-cell microscopy, enabling non-destructive imaging of beating cardiac microtissues. Within 10 days of loading differentiated hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes into the OOAC, tissues developed into synchronously contracting microtissues that nearly filled the enclosed cell chamber.
To capture cardiac function at multiple levels, the protocol utilized a **multi-parametric imaging strategy**. The genetically encoded calcium indicator **GCaMP6f** (expressed in WTC11 hiPSC-derived cardiomyocytes) enabled high-sensitivity detection of intracellular **calcium transients** via green fluorescence (eGFP channel). In parallel, **membrane voltage dynamics** were monitored using the red fluorescent **BeRST voltage-sensitive dye**, which was imaged in the FarRed channel. These imaging modalities captured cyclic changes related to **contraction, calcium signaling**, and **electrical activity**, offering a comprehensive view of cardiac performance in vitro.
- **Brightfield videos** were used to quantify mechanical contraction parameters such as displacement, contraction velocity, and relaxation velocity.
- **GCaMP6f fluorescence** was used to monitor calcium transient amplitude and kinetics.
- **BeRST imaging** enabled analysis of action potential duration (APD) and repolarization dynamics.
A representative video (Video 1) demonstrates that after a **20-minute rest period** on the microscope stage, the microtissues resumed **spontaneous rhythmic contractions**, returning to baseline beating frequency and amplitude. This observation emphasizes the time needed for tissue recovery set in the protocols and confirms that the assay platform is **non-disruptive and compatible with repeated imaging**.
### Calcium Dose-Response: Functional Sensitivity to Extracellular Ca²⁺
Tyrode’s solutions with varying **extracellular calcium** concentrations (ranging from 0.125 to 2.0 mM) during electrical pacing at 1.2 Hz. Changes in calcium levels elicited **dose-dependent responses** across all measured functional parameters, demonstrating the model’s sensitivity to physiologically relevant ionic shifts.
As shown in **Figure 3**:
1. **Calcium transient amplitude**, as measured by eGFP fluorescence, increased with rising extracellular calcium levels.
2. **Contraction displacement** also increased proportionally, with higher calcium promoting stronger tissue contractions.
3. Both **contraction velocity** and **relaxation velocity** improved at elevated calcium concentrations, reflecting enhanced excitation–contraction coupling.
**Figure 3: (**a**) Fluorescent intensity of (eGFP) within perfused OOAC with varying concentration of Tyrode’s solutions with electrical stimulation set at 1.2 Hz. (**b1**) Quantification of contraction displacement. (**b2**) The average contraction velocity. (**b3**) The average relaxation velocity.**
### Electrophysiological Effects of Calcium on Action Potentials
*Figure *4*: Response of Action Potential Duration (APD) and Fluorescent Rate of decay*
In addition to mechanical and calcium handling responses, the effect of extracellular calcium on **membrane electrophysiology** was quantified using BeRST fluorescence. As shown in **Figure 4**, increasing calcium concentration was associated with:
- A reduction in action potential duration (APD80), indicating faster repolarization.
- A decrease in the fluorescent decay rate, suggesting shorter depolarization–repolarization cycles.
These changes are consistent with known calcium effects on ion channel activity and cardiac electrophysiology. Furthermore, **BeRST** **imaging** revealed enhanced repolarization speed at higher pacing rates. This could indicate increased susceptibility to arrhythmias under stress conditions.
**Note:** All data shown (Figures 3 and 4) were obtained from the Figure 6 of the original article *Nature Protocols* (Garcia et al., 2025). Statistical significance is indicated as follows: \*P < 0.05, \*\*P < 0.005, \*\*\*P < 0.0005 (unpaired t-test), n = 4 OOAC replicates per condition.
## Conclusion
This protocol used the [Aria system](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/ "Aria, An Automated Perfusion System ") within a **cardiac OOAC platform.** The integration of Aria allowed precise calcium modulation for physiological interrogation of microtissue behavior. The protocol described is adaptable and holds strong relevance for applications in:
- Drug cardiotoxicity screening
- Patient-specific disease modeling
- Bioengineering cardiac testbeds
To explore the details on the biological set up and maturation of cardiac hiPSC, [access the full article here.](https://doi.org/10.1038/s41596-025-01166-4 "access the full article here.")
## References
\[1\] S. L. Murphy, K. D. Kochanek, J. Xu and E. Arias, “Mortality in the United States, 2023,” NCHS Data Brief, 2024.
\[2\] ”Cardiovascular diseases,” World Heath Organization (WHO), 2025. \[Online\]. Available: https://www.who.int/health-topics/cardiovascular-diseases#tab=tab\_1.
\[3\] F. Nicola, S. Peter, C. Alberto, H. Joerg, L. Amir and B. Renee, “Drug attrition during pre-clinical and clinical development: Understanding and managing drug-induced cardiotoxicity,” *Pharmacology & Therapeutics,* vol. 138, no. 3, pp. 470-484, 2013. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pharmthera.2013.03.005.
## Related Solutions
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
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### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/)
- [version="1.0"?
Tutorial videos ARIA Tutorial Episode 1 : How To Plug An ARIA \[automated cell perfusion\] – Fluigent Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CEA/CNRS: A flow cell for nanoscopic imaging in liquid Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cea-cnrs-a-flow-cell-dedicated-to-imaging-in-liquid-at-the-nanoscale/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Automating calcium imaging in neural cells with Fluigent’s Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automating-calcium-imaging/)
**Published:** April 15, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Calcium imaging: Understanding neuronal communication activity
Assessing neuronal activities in vitro is crucial for understanding the functionality, health, intrinsic properties, and responses to various stimuli of neuronal cultures. Calciumplays a significant role in cell signalingas an indicator for tracking neuronal electrical activities. This method is capable of detecting single action potentials in individual neurons. By utilizing fluorescent markers that react to the binding of Ca+ ions, one can optically measure shifts in calcium concentration within neurons and neuronal tissue.
Imaging calcium offers insights into neuronal events, network synchrony, response amplitudes, and event frequencies, allowing for the comprehensive characterization of culture functionality.
### Visualizing Neuronal Activity
By utilizing super resolution fluorescence microscopy with calcium imaging one can indirectly measure neuronal activity. **This is achieved by monitoring calcium influx during action potentials**. The automation of the process **offers control over the cellular environment while capturing neuronal activity.**
### Automated Imaging with Fluigent’s Aria Platform
Below is an automated calcium imaging protocol using [Fluigent’s Aria platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/?utm_term=aria%20fluigent&utm_campaign=2022_France+-+All+products&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=8311881037&hsa_cam=13049504045&hsa_grp=137473520350&hsa_ad=591832432462&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-1618265256866&hsa_kw=aria%20fluigent&hsa_mt=p&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw_LOwBhBFEiwAmSEQAQcYAUCJkQlJjuNdcpY5YUDnHSKao2aRZaY5tEZ03zb4CZK0L6kTTRoCb0EQAvD_BwE "Fluigent's Aria platform"). The Aria is an automated perfusion device, able to deliver up to 10 solutions into 1 or 9 microfluidic chips or chambers this configuration maintains the stability of neuronal cultures for prolonged recordings without the need to move the sample and the field of interest. **This application note showcases** the potential of the Aria in streamlining experimental procedures, enhancing experimental throughput, and ensuring the reproducibility of results. Through real-time monitoring of calcium dynamics, researchers gain valuable insights into neuronal circuit dynamics, neurodegenerative diseases, and drug effects, advancing our understanding of neuronal function.
**This document is written** by Maxime Poinsot, a PhD student at Institut de Neurosciences de la Timone & Fluigent. The application employs standard reagents, making it accessible and practical for researchers in the field.
**Previous Application Note on the topic:**
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips
Streamline immunolabeling of neuron cells across as many as 4 microfluidic chips with an automated perfusion system.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
## Automated Calcium Imaging Protocol
### Materials
- **Cells & neuron stimulation reagents:**
- Progenitor neuron cells from rat embryos at 17.5 days of gestation
- AAV5.SYN.GCaMP6f for transduction of the striatum
- Tetrodotoxin (TTX) 5μM in water for cellular cultures
- **Microfluidic chip:** The chip (Figure 1) used for this application note is fabricated using [PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ "PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane)") with a curing agent ratio of 1 part curing agent to 10 parts of the base silicone, utilizing Sylgard 184 as the base material.
- **Live Imaging Super Resolution Microscopy TIRF: ZEISS Elyra 7:** The confocal microscope employed provides high-resolution imaging for neuron cell visualization. Recordings were made using a 20x oil-immersion objective and a 488 nm laser at 70% intensity with a 200 ms exposure time every 200ms for 1 minute.
Figure 1 Illustration of the microfluidic chip used to perform cell culture and calcium imaging in neurons
### Protocol: Imaging Neurons Using the Aria
- After culturing neuron cells for 21 days inside the chip or chamber, the device is placed under the microscope and the preferred field of interest is localized.
- The basal calcium activity of the striatum is measured every 200 ms over 1 minute T=0.
- Using Aria, the direct cortex culture medium is replaced by the medium containing TTX, followed by an incubation time of 5 minutes (t1).
- The calcium activity of the striatum is recorded every 200 ms for 1 min (t2).
- Again, the culture medium is replaced by the medium containing TTX, followed by an incubation time of 5 minutes (t3).
- The calcium activity of the striatum is recorded every 200 ms for 1 min (t4).
The protocol is summarized below (Figure 2).
Figure 2 Protocol used to perform calcium imaging in neuronal cells
## Results
Figure 3 displays progenitor neuron cells within the chip following various stimulations. The images depict recorded striatal neurons alongside their normalized amplitude traces. Administration of TTX into the direct Cortex 1 reveals persistent activity in the striatum, indicating functional connectivity from the indirect cortex 2 to the recorded striatum. Conversely, administering TTX into both direct Cortex 1 and 2 results in no recorded neuronal activity.
Figure 3 Functional activity of neuron cells after stimulation
## Conclusion
Using the Aria we fully automated a calcium imaging in neurons protocol, expediting numerous microfluidic experiments. This ensured stable recordings, enhancing reliability and reproducibility. This streamlined approach advances our understanding of neuronal circuit dynamics and offers a transformative solution for microfluidic calcium imaging challenges.
**Previous Application Note on the topic:**
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips
Streamline immunolabeling of neuron cells across as many as 4 microfluidic chips with an automated perfusion system.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
## Related product
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips Read more
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Microfluidics Case Studies Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
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**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/)
**Published:** November 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
“As a clinician and immunologist with an interest in imaging, I was involved in developing a new technique for multiplexed immunohistochemistry. We wanted to automate the process by adding a microfluidic solution, but I had no experience with this technology. The[ ARIA system](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/ " ARIA system") fit our needs and was incredibly simple and intuitive to use. The software is well-designed and readily interfaced with our microscope. Fluigent provided support throughout setup and transformed what seemed a large undertaking, into an incredibly simple task.”
**Colin Chu, University College London**
## Introduction
Dr. Colin Chu has recently established his own lab at University College London (UCL) Institute of Ophthalmology in partnership with Moorfields Eye Hospital. As an ophthalmologist specialized in ocular immunology, his research is focused on using in vivo and ex vivo imaging to better understand the causes of blinding diseases.
While he was a visiting fellow in the lab of Dr Ron Germain at the National Institute of Health (NIH) in Maryland, USA, Dr Chu helped establish an automated highly multiplexed immunohistochemistry approach with his colleague Dr Andrea Radtke. This work was published in Nature Protocols in February 2022.
It uses an automated immunolabeling technique called IBEX, to achieve over 30 distinct antibody markers on the same section of tissue. Previously this had only been performed manually, limiting the throughput, speed and accessibility of the technique. Working together with Fluigent to connect an [ARIA microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) system to a Leica THUNDER microscope, the two systems were able to interface to deliver automated staining and image acquisition.
Dr. Chu is now setting up the system at UCL to apply the automated immunomarking technique, IBEX, to the retina in mice, zebrafish and human post-mortem tissue. In addition to multiplexed tissue imaging with immunofluorescence, his research topics include ocular gene therapy and in vivo immune cell imaging using adaptive optics, optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescence microscopy to better understand ocular inflammation.
## How to perform automated immunofluorescence
### Fluigent instrument ARIA coupled to a widefield microscope to perform automated multiplexed tissue imaging
High content imaging of tissue samples was performed using an automated immunolabeling method, consisting of iterative cycles of antibody labelling, imaging, and fluorophore bleaching using lithium borohydride (LiBH4). Image processing and registration were done using the SimpleITK open-source software.
To perform an automated IBEX study, the [**complete setup**](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00644-9) comprised several pieces of equipment:
- a pressure source (here our FLPG)
- a single output [**sequential perfusion system ARIA**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- a closed bath imaging chamber containing tissue sections and stage heater from Warner Instruments
- a THUNDER microscope from Leica
Using [ARIA software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-7-software-presentation-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/), a method containing all the fluid injection and image acquisition steps was created. Once loaded, the sequence **can be run automatically**. The automated immunomarking method relies on TTL signals sent and received by ARIA, enabling a cycle of image acquisition to be launched at the end of an injection step. The software interfaced with the Leica THUNDER microscope.
Once an image was acquired, the next fluid injection step started, to bleach the previous round, commence antibody staining with the next panel, then trigger microscope acquisition again. Ultimately, the full sequence of steps gave rise to high-quality, multiplexed protein level data of over 30 markers.
Fixed human tissues including mesenteric lymph node, small intestine and skin were profiled (Figure 1, 2). These tissues are usually very challenging to image due to their delicate structure and high background autofluorescence.
As stated by the authors, the original IBEX method was limited by the requirement of manual execution (manual pipetting for antibody staining and fluorophore inactivation). Here, ARIA provides an affordable automated solution to access high-content imaging as part of the spatial biology revolution.
## IBEX automated immunomarking method: Experimental procedure
a) The [automated IBEX protocol](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00644-9) uses our[ **compact microfluidics system ARIA**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) to deliver multiple solutions to an imaging chamber placed on an inverted microscope stage. Fluids are moved through the system with compressed air and delivered to the imaging chamber based on protocols defined by the user. The inverted microscope and ARIA device communicate via TTL signals using precise timing established by the user with the Aria control software.
b) Samples are sectioned onto coated coverslips and assembled into a closed bath imaging chamber. Following assembly, the imaging chamber is secured to a magnetic platform and mounted onto the microscope stage.
c) **Automated IBEX** consists of: (1) nuclear labeling with Hoechst, (2) antibody labeling for 1 h at 37 °C using a heated microscope stage, (3) imaging ROIs, (4) bleaching with LiBH4, and (5) repeating Steps 2–4 until the desired number of parameters is achieved, typically 12 h for a six-cycle, 25-plex experiment.
*Figure 1 Schematic overview of automated IBEX protocol* [](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00644-9/figures/2)
## Partial Results
Radtke AJ. \*, Colin CJ\*. et al, have established a [**high throughput automated immunolabeling protocol**](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00644-9) recently published in Nature Protocols based on the automation power of our Fluigent **ARIA instrument** coupled to **an image alignment open-source software package**.
This powerful approach relies on iterative staining and bleaching method to perform high-resolution imaging of more than 65 parameters. This Iterative [Bleaching Extends Multiplexing protocol (IBEX)](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00644-9) represents a robust and reproducible method to perform deep phenotyping and spatial analysis of cells in complex tissues (healthy organ, infected organs, tumor microenvironment).
**Examples of Images obtained using automated IBEX method in human tissues**
*Figure 2 Images from human jejunum six cycles 16 of 24 parameters shown Scale bars 200 µm left 50 µm cyan box 25 µm red box*
*Figure 3 Images from human skin five cycles 15 of 19 parameters shown Scale bars 200 µm left 25 µm insets Keratin 10 K10 Keratin 14 K14*
## Conclusion
In this paper, the authors have demonstrated the automation power of our sequential perfusion system ARIA together with its ability to be synchronized with a widefield (or other) microscope to perform automated and multiplexed antibody labelling. ARIA can send and receive TTL signals to launch an image acquisition cycle and resume the perfusion protocol once the imaging cycle has been completed. Other applications such as DNA-paint, OligoSTORM, dose/response studies, automated multiplex immunofluorescence experiments or dynamic pulse-chase experiments can be automated using ARIA. .
[Explore the original article](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00644-9)
- Chu Lab website:
- UCL Chu Lab website:
- General UCL website:
## Additional information about Aria
Aria’s technology, enabling automated sequential injection for cellular perfusion or timed injection protocol, is a new state-of-the-art technology that holds great promise for many cell biology and organ-on-chip cell culture projects. Incorporating Fluigent’s latest technologies, this instrument ensures perfusion with minimal shear stress and highly controlled flow. To find out more about this technology, we invite you to visit the product web page, or take a look at our Webinars.
Aria is the only instrument that can **automate the delivery of up to 10 different solutions** to a flow cell. It’s the perfect compromise between manual pipetting and an all-in-one system dedicated to one specific application. **Any protocol with multiple solution delivery can be automated**, saving the scientist both time and reducing variability between experiments compared to procedures that do not include perfusion systems. Users can integrate their own microscope, specific chip type and solution sets using the Aria Automated sequential injection system.
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
### Automate Cellular Studies with Aria
Unlock your path to success with Fluigent’s cutting-edge perfusion system, Aria. Say goodbye to the complexities of manual fluid delivery, and embrace a new era of seamless experimentation.
**Automate with Aria**:
When your experiments demand precision in timed delivery of reagents, probes, fluorophores, and more, all while reducing the need for constant operator intervention, look no further than Aria, our next-generation instrument for automating cellular perfusion studies.
**Streamlined Efficiency**:
In response to the feedback from our valued customers, we recognize the time and effort that multi-solution protocols often require, coupled with substantial operator involvement. Aria simplifies your research by offering swift experimental setup, user-friendly operation, and the ability to automate even multi-day protocols. Additionally, it seamlessly interfaces with various microscopes, further enhancing reagent delivery and imaging.
**Your Solution for Lab Automation**:
Aria is the ultimate solution to streamline your laboratory work. Its high flexibility allows adaptation to any perfusion chamber and protocol, thanks to its intuitive software.
**Elevating Live-Cell Imaging**:
Beyond its versatility, Aria serves as a powerful tool for automating complex protocols, particularly in the realm of live-cell imaging. Whether it’s immunostaining, omics applications, or radiometric imaging, Aria is your partner in simplifying intricate experiments.
### Automated Fluid Delivery for Cell and Tissue Imaging
If you’re looking to save time, enhance precision, and achieve reproducibility in your immunofluorescence assay or any other assay that involves injecting multiple solutions into your samples, our webinar is a must-attend event. Discover how to seamlessly integrate a flow chamber or microfluidic chip with our automated fluid delivery device, ARIA. With this setup, you can deliver up to 10 different solutions sequentially and autonomously. Additionally, ARIA can be synchronized with any microscope to initiate an image acquisition cycle and resume the perfusion protocol once the imaging cycle is complete.
This all-in-one workflow streamlines the process of injecting/incubating with reagents and acquiring images, making it particularly well-suited for complex cell and tissue imaging. During the webinar, we will showcase various applications, including multiplexed tissue imaging, DNA-PAINT, seqFISH, cell capture, and staining.
## Related product
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/)
[
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
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**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Microfluidic Flow Sensing Technologies, A Review](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-flow-sensing-technologies/)
**Published:** October 18, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
The physical properties of the sample such as viscosity, density, conductivity, diffusion coefficient, solubility or phase equilibrium and flow conditions impact the measurement of the flow. The ideal flow sensor should provide accuracy and precision, function for a wide range of flow rates (from 1 nL/min to 10 mL/min for microfluidic applications), have a quick response time, and work with all types of liquid independently of the external conditions (temperature and humidity amongst others) all for a lower cost. We divided flow metering technologies into two main categories: active and passive flow sensors. Active sensors provide energy to the liquid and measure the changes they induce. They represent more than two-thirds of the flow sensors currently used in microfluidic applications. Passive sensors do not supply any energy to the fluid. Their principle is based on the evaluation of the disturbance the flow causes on the sensor. Each category can be divided into subcategories that are listed in the graph below.
*Figure 1 Microfluidic flow sensing principles*## Active Microfluidic Flow Sensing
### Thermal Flow Meters1,2,3
The most widespread flow sensors in microfluidics rely on heat transfer measurement. They have one heating element and one or several sensing elements. The flow rate Ql can be derived from the fluid velocity v knowing the tube section S. The fluid velocity is linked to the heat loss Qh in accordance with the following equation, where a and b are constants that depend on the channel and the fluid and that can be determined empirically:
The heat loss is proportional to the dissipated power P that is known thanks to the temperature T detected by the sensor, where I is the intensity of the current, and α is the resistivity:
Three different acquisition methods exist for this active microfluidic flow sensing subcategory.
- Firstly, the **hot-film anemometer** consists of only one element that heats and measures. It can work in constant temperature mode or constant current mode. In the first case, a feedback loop maintains the sensor’s temperature constant and the flow rate is derived from the current needed to achieve that. In the second case, the flow rate is derived from the decrease of the sensor’s temperature as the flow rate increases.
- Secondly, the **calorimetric flow meter** consists of one heating element supported by a constant current and surrounded by two sensing elements that measure the asymmetry of the temperature profile caused by the flowing liquid. Unlike the hot-film anemometer, it gives information on the flow direction and consumes less power. This technology is used in Fluigent’s [flow units](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) (research) or [flow sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/) (industrial) as it offers the best performance in active flow sensors. They saturate over a certain flow rate due to the limited transfer of heat between the fluid and the heater/sensor which restricts their dynamic range to 1 order of magnitude.
- Lastly, the **time-of-flight flow meter** consists of one heating element, and a sensor that evaluates the flow rate based on the time needed by a heat pulse to travel a known distance. Due to its structural asymmetry, it cannot deal with liquids passing in both directions, because the flow must pass by the heater before passing by the sensor for the latter to detect the heat pulse. It is the lesser-developed thermal flow sensing method as temperature diffusion along the channel disturbs the heat pulse.
**Figure 2 Thermal sensors for microfluidic flow sensing principle**s
#### Advantages and limits
MEMS thermal flow sensors are considered one of the most mature microfluidic flow sensing technologies. They are highly responsive (1 ms to 1s), making them ideal for complex protocols such as imitating aspects of an in vivo cellular microenvironment with heartbeats or shear stress.
Regarding the ideal flow meter described at the beginning of the review, thermal flow meters lack being liquid-independent as the measurement is influenced by the thermal properties of the liquid, thus requiring a calibration step. For example, droplet production is a process that involves oils, surfactants and samples with different properties. For that application, the user is forced to calibrate the thermal sensor once per manipulation with a different liquid.
Their use can be problematic when manipulating temperature sensitive samples like biological samples. Improving these sensors’ sensitivity requires bringing the sensors closer to the heater, impacting the manufacturing cost. Another solution is to reduce the channel’s internal diameter, but this can lead to clogging, notably when manipulating liquids with cells or beads. For instance, eukaryotic cells range between 1 and 100 µm, so they can be incompatible with our sensor model that measures flow rates below 1,5 µL/min because it has an internal diameter of 25 µm. One must also be careful when manipulating cells of the materials constituting the channel. Moreover, when used during long periods, a biofilm can form and alter the measurement.
### Coriolis Flow Meters1,4
An alternative to thermal microfluidic flow sensing is to use a Coriolis flowmeter. The flow rate measurement is based on the detection of the movement caused by the Coriolis force in a U-shaped conductive channel. Running an alternative current iact in the conductor submitted to a constant magnetic field B induces a periodical Lorentz force FL along the z axis that drives the channel with an angular velocity ωact. As fluid flows through the channel, a Coriolis force FC along the z axis that is proportional to the mass flow Φm and the angular velocity ωact is created:
This causes a second vibration mode with an angular velocity ωd. The flow rate Q is computed thanks to the optical measurement of the amplitude of both oscillations and several parameters linked to the microchannel, the operating modes and the detection-mode modal spring constant.
*Figure 3 Coriolis sensor for microfluidic flow sensing principle*
#### Advantages and limits
Unlike thermal sensors, Coriolis sensors do not need calibration and are not affected by the liquid density in microfluidic applications as long as it is between 1 and 2 kg/m3. They can measure the density and flow rates with over 3 ranges of magnitude, but they also increase the liquid’s temperature by several degrees so it can be an obstacle for certain applications that require microfluidic flow sensing. The major drawbacks are currently the price (a few thousand euros) and the long tubing (due to the small internal diameter the fluid has to go through) that is prone to clogging.
## Passive Microfluidic Flow Sensing
As of today, only active flowmeters are industrialized on a large scale. They are either adapted from other applications or inspired by natural phenomena. They aim to save power by taking advantage of the energy created by the fluid flowing. They have been tested for research purposes but are not commercialized for microfluidic applications yet.
### Fluid/Structure Interaction Flow Meters1,5,6
These flow sensors operate through the dissipated energy of the flowing liquid that leads to the motion or deformation of their body. Three technologies are featured below.
- Firstly, the **differential pressure flowmeter** computes the flow rate Q from the pressure difference Δp applied at the inlet and the outlet of the channel knowing its dimensions and the liquid viscosity, with the following formula, where Rh is the hydrodynamic resistance that can be obtained through a calibration step:
The pressure acquisition is done thanks to a deformable membrane or diaphragm with piezoresistive material deposited on it or with capacitive readouts. These flowmeters do not have an effect on the flow, but if they are contaminated, up to 20% of errors are caused by hydrodynamic resistance variations and mechanical properties variations of the membrane. They are more adapted to pneumatic paths than fluidic paths.
- Secondly, the **cantilever-based flowmeter** detects the distortion of a cantilever beam immersed perpendicularly to the flow. Its behavior mimics hair-cells or cilia. The beam bends under the drag force exerted by the fluid and the longitudinal strain is measured by piezo resistors at its base. The flow rate Q is proportionate to the fluid (viscosity µ and) velocity v, which is proportionate to the drag force obtained by integrating the stress \[σ\], which is strongly intertwined with the strain detected:
This microfluidic flow sensing technology allows a better measurement dynamic range than differential pressure. Moreover, as they are made thanks to MEMS techniques, cantilever sensors can be compact and in the same price range than thermal flowmeters. Like them, they also need to be calibrated for each liquid. But the beam can wear out or break if the drag force is too strong, and be affected if covered by particles, cells, bubbles or proteins contained in the flow.
- Lastly, the **particle seeding flowmeter** measures the velocity of particles that were seeded into the flow thanks to particle image velocimetry or laser Doppler velocimetry, two optical detection methods. The first one is based on the comparison between two successive images taken with a specified delay, and the latter on the interference fringe created by two intersecting coherent laser beams. Limitations of the device include difficulty being integrated in a microfluidic setup due to the bulk optical detection devices and its requirement for transparent microfluidic channels.
***Figure 4 FluidStructure Interaction sensors for microfluidic flow sensing principles***
#### Advantages and limits
These technologies are compatible with temperature sensitive samples, have low power consumption and have low effects on the flow conditioning, but they are based on prior knowledge of the liquid and are prone to contamination issues as the test bodies are in contact with the fluid. The concerns for their invasiveness, reliability, and repeatability prevent fluid/structure interaction sensors from being competitive with active flow sensors.
### Non-invasive Flow Meters1,5,7
Until this point, all the flow sensors reviewed had an impact on the liquid, whether through a contamination risk or a rise in temperature. Moreover, their price does not allow them to be considered as disposable products whereas biological applications often prefer Fluigent components that can be sterile or disposable. The following will focus on inconsequential microfluidic flow sensing methods.
Three other technologies have been selected for this review. They are less developed than the others for now and still need improvement to be effective.
- Firstly, the **gravimetric flow meter** gives the flow rate according to the liquid mass increment per unit time in the reservoir, with knowledge of the liquid density. It’s not adapted to observe quick flow rate fluctuations because of its low acquisition frequency of a scale. The interaction between the outlet of the reservoir and the liquid in it is a major source of error.
- Secondly, the **front meniscus tracking flowmeter** principle consists in optically following the meniscus displacement of the liquid flowing in a capillary during a time interval, but it can only be set at the outlet of the microfluidic circuit, limiting its use. Other types of microfluidic flow sensing methods by optical tracking have been tested but the optical devices needed to carry them, making it impossible to integrate them in a compact setup.
- Lastly, the **acoustic flow meter** determines the flow rate with the help of ultrasonic signals that propagate in the channel. The concept is the same as the thermal time-of-flight sensor: the propagation time of ultrasonic pulses is processed by cross-correlation. It has the benefit of being independent of the fluidic properties but is expensive, has limited possibilities of footprint optimization due to the geometrical constraints the device must respect, and has sensitivity issues for the low microfluidic flow ranges (these sensors are commercialized for flow rates above 100 mL/min), and for liquids that are prone to cavitation or dissolution.
## Comparative summary between microfluidic flow sensing methods
**Flowmeter1,5,6,7****Range (µL/min)****Accuracy (% of reading)****Response time (s)****Estimated volume (cm3)****Materials that might be in contact with water****Estimated price (€)**Hot-film anemometer0.02 – 16720 – 50.01 – 0.0250PEEK, Quartz Glass, PPS, stainless steel, ETFE100 – 2 000Calorimetric0.07 – 1 00010 – 2.50.0450PEEK, Quartz Glass, PPS, stainless steel, ETFE100 – 2 000Time-of-flight10 – 1 00060.01250PEEK, Quartz Glass, PPS, stainless steel, ETFE100 – 2 000Coriolis0.84 – 3 3000.20.2400Silicon microtube or silicon-rich silicon nitride tube2 000 – 4 000Differential pressure1.1 – 1 100100.11 000Silicon nitride membrane or diaphragm250 – 1 000Cantilever2 – 5000.10.01400 – 50 000Beam in silicon nitride, SU8, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)400 – 5 000Particle seeding0.001 – 545 – 21> 100 000Particles (ex : 1 µm diameter polystyrene spheres)> 10 000Gravimetric0.017 – 10 0006 – 0.052 – 20> 100 000Non invasive> 10 000Front meniscus tracking5 – 100230050 000Non invasive4 000 – 8 000Acoustic200 – 1 6001 – 0.10.01100 – 1 000Non invasiveN/A## Conclusion
Factors that are elusive with conventional fluidic metering (liters per minute), such as the channel and fluid interactions, cavitation (formation of bubbles) and dissolution (multi-phase flows) become critical at the micrometer scale level, making microfluidic flow sensing more challenging.
Different technologies have been developed to address the above challenges with all showing specific advantages and limitations but research in flow rate measurement will greatly help the progression of many microfluidic applications such as personalized medicine through [drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/) or research in life science through [organ-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/).
## References
\[1\] C. Cavaniol, W. Cesar, S. Descroix, J.-L. Viovy, “Flowmetering for microfluidics”, *Lab on a Chip*, 2022
\[2\] N. T. Nguyen, “Micromachined flow sensors – a review”, *Flow Measurement and Instrumentation*, 1997
\[3\] B. Mimoun, A. van der Horst, R. Dekker, D. van der Voort, M. Rutten, F. van der Vosse, “Thermal Flow Sensors on Flexible Substrates for Minimally Invasive Medical Instruments”, *Sensors*, 2012
\[4\] R. Smith, D. R. Sparks, D. Riley, N. Najafi, “A MEMS-Based Coriolis Mass Flow Sensor for Industrial Applications”, *Transactions On Industrial Electronics*, 2009
\[5\] L. Huang, “Microfluidic Flow Sensing Approaches”, *Advances in Microfluidics and Nanofluids*, 2021
\[6\] P. Salipante, S. D. Hudson, J. W. Schmidt, J. D. Wright, “Microparticle tracking velocimetry as a tool for microfluidic flow measurements”, *Experiments in Fluids*, 2017
\[7\] M. Takamoto, H. Ishikawa, K. Shimizu, H. Monji, G. Matsui, “New measurement method for very low liquid flow rates using ultrasound”, *Flow Measurement and Instrumentation*, 2001
## Related Resources
- [
### Non-Intrusive Flow Sensing Technology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/non-intrusive-flow-sensing-technology/)
- [
### Contamination-free Liquid Handling System
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
## Related Products
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Pressure Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
[
### Pneumatic Valve Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/p-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic OEM Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
**Catégories de ressource:** General Overview of Microfluidics
---
### [Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
**Published:** November 15, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to alginate microcapsule
Recent advances in life science technology have prompted the need to develop **microcapsule delivery systems** that can encapsulate many different functional or active materials.. The application of biodegradable microcapsule systems can not only effectively prevent the degradation of core materials in the body or the biological environment, but also improve the bioavailability, control release, and prolong the half‐time or storage of core active materials (3).
In this application note, a microfluidic approach is developed to fabricate **monodisperse alginate microcapsules with oil cores**, which have the potential to be a brand-new type of vehicle for encapsulating, storing and/or transferring lipophilic drugs or active ingredients/chemicals.
In alginate microcapsule synthesis, the microcapsules with oil cores are generated in the [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "Raydrop Double Emulsions"), a microcapillary microfluidic device based on the use of a 3D-printed injection nozzle carrying two fluids, the core and the shell phases. This is positioned in front of an extraction capillary in a cavity filled with the third (continuous) phase. Fine control of the fluid flows leads to defined capsule and shell dimensions.
Both the alginate microcapsule **size** and the **thickness** of alginate membrane can be **easily controlled** by modulating the dimensions of the microfluidic device and the flow rate of the solutions because the outer diameter of the O/W/O double emulsion templates and the size of their inner oil cores can be controlled independently by adjusting the inner diameters of emulsification tubes and the flow rates of different solutions (4,5).
Highly monodispersed alginate microcapsules are produced by gelling O/W/O emulsions in oil solution with acetic acid, where the pH decreasing will trigger the calcium ions being released from calcium complex and cross-linking with alginate molecules (4).
## Materials and methods to produce alginate microcapsules
### MATERIALS
**Reagents**
**– Core phase:** MCT1 (MCT oil)
– **Shell phase:**
Al1 MiliQ water with 1% w/w TWEEN 80 and 1%w/w Alginate and 2:1 molar ratio of CaEDTA
Al2 MiliQ water with 1% w/w TWEEN 80 and 2%w/w Alginate and 2:1 molar ratio of CaEDTA
Al3 MiliQ water with 1% w/w TWEEN 80 and 3%w/w Alginate and 2:1 molar ratio of CaEDTA
**– Continuous phase:** MCT3 (MCT with 2% w/w PGPR (E576) and 5% acetic acid).
**Products/Instruments**
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Platform for emulsions & droplets
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
### METHODS: Working principle of microfluidic alginate microcapsule synthesis
**EXPERIMENT SEQUENCE**
**Stage 0: Preparation**
» Filter all liquids to avoid clogging (pore size 0.2 µm).
» De-gas solutions to minimize the apparition of air bubbles inside the system.
**Stage 1: Shell Phase Simple Emulsion**
» Production of a single emulsion of the shell phase in the continuous phase, increasing the pressure until reaching a jetting mode.
**Stage 2: Double Emulsion**
» Production of a double emulsion adjusting the core flow, due to the shearing of this phase with the previous phase (single emulsion droplet already formed).
**Stage 3: Droplet collection and microcapsule precipitation (crosslinking).**
» Once the droplets were formed, the cross-linking procedure was performed.
» The collected material is allowed to reside in MCT 3 solution. This enables complete crosslinking of the alginate shell.
» After cross-linking is complete, the microbeads are collected on a filter/sieve, washed with excess water and resuspended in a MCT 1 working solution.
**Stage 4: Production run**
Oil core – hydrogel shell microcapsules are produced at gram quantities. The system was left running for at least 30 minutes to determine the long-term stability and ability to withstand clogging.
[Download the Complete Protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/11/alginate-microcapsules-production-appnote.pdf)
- [
### Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
## Results
Al1 and Al2 resulted in the successful formation of oil core–alginate shell microbeads. The core to droplet ratio has altered, resulting in larger cores. This could be due to the interaction of alginate with the oil phase or the retardation of shell formation owing to the viscosity of alginate.
As can be seen in Table 1, Al3 (3% alginate solutions) did not result in stable droplet formation as the concentration was too viscous.
For a configuration with the nozzle and output capillaries (respectively 90µm, 160µm and 450µm) as presented in this note, adjusting the flow rates of the fluids allows for fine control of the capsule dimensions. With this setup, microcapsules from 212µm- 245µm can be easily produced (see Figure 4 and Figure 5). The shell thickness of microcapsules can vary by changing the ratio of the flow rates of the shell and core phases. Here, core thickness varies from 75µm to 173µm.
**Working solution****Core flow rate µL/min****Shell flow rate µL/min****Continuous flow rate µL/min****Droplet size /µm****Core size/µm****Droplet formation rate /Hz**Al1206010022175236Al13080150271124176Al15020100222152204Al15040150234127273Al2206010021577256Al2308015024585238Al25020100212141234Al25040150239173210Al3–––––No DropletsAl3–––––No DropletsAl3–––––No DropletsAl3–––––No DropletsTable 1. Representation of core, shell, and continuous flow rate; droplet and core size, and the droplet formation rate.[Read The Full Report](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/11/alginate-microcapsules-production-appnote.pdf)
Figure 4 Thin shell microcapsules were obtained using alginate solutions Al1
## Conclusion
Microfluidic technology adaptation for alginate microcapsule production has seen significant growth in varied application fields. The benefits of reproducibility, real-time control and reduction of waste are leading users to switch from conventional batch methods to microfluidics.
In this application note, made in collaboration with Small Biotechnologies, the [complex emulsion production platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/ "complex emulsion production platform") generated **highly monodispersed** alginate microcapsules **with a size between 212 and 245 µm** with standard RayDrop™ configuration (Nozzle of 90µm and outlet capillary 150µm) using an alginate solution of 1% in water. Other concentrations of alginate such as 2%, which is widely used in the delivery of small chemical drugs, protein delivery, and wound dressings, have been successfully tested by following the same process.
In this alginate microcapsule synthesis application, we have demonstrated that **microcapsule size variation can be successfully obtained by altering the flow rates** of the phases and/or the size of the [Raydrop™ chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "Raydrop Double Emulsions"). We have also demonstrated that core-shell ratio can be successfully adjusted by altering the relative flow rates of core and shell phases.
## Related Product
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Alginate Bead Generation Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/alginate-microbeads-production-station/)
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
## REFERENCES
1. Bah, M.G., Bilal, H.M. and Wang, J. (2020) “Fabrication and application of complex microcapsules: A Review,” *Soft Matter*, 16(3), pp. 570–590. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1039/c9sm01634a.
2. Paques, J.P. *et al.* (2014) “Preparation methods of alginate nanoparticles,” *Advances in Colloid and Interface Science*, 209, pp. 163–171. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cis.2014.03.009.
3. Chong, D., Liu, X., Ma, H., Huang, G., Han, Y., & Cui, X. et al. (2015). Advances in fabricating double-emulsion droplets and their biomedical applications. Microfluidics And Nanofluidics, 19(5), 1071-1090. doi: 10.1007/s10404-015-1635-8 11.
4. Mørch, Ý.A. *et al.* (2006) “Effect of ca2+, ba2+, and sr2+ on alginate microbeads,” *Biomacromolecules*, 7(5), pp. 1471–1480. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1021/bm060010d.
5. Zimmermann, H., Shirley, S.G. and Zimmermann, U. (2007) “Alginate-based encapsulation of cells: Past, present, and future,” *Current Diabetes Reports*, 7(4), pp. 314–320. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-007-0051-1.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
**Published:** June 17, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What Is Microfluidic Perfusion
To define the term **microfluidic perfusion** and distinguish it from general continuous flow:
*Perfusion* typically refers to the controlled delivery of fluid through a structure, such as tissues or channels—a term predominantly rooted in medical terminology. Perfusion in microfluidics denotes the continuous flow of fluid through microscale channels, often in reference to tissues or reaction zones. \[1\]\[2\]
With the continuous evolution of the field, microfluidic perfusion has established a critical role in **live-cell analysis, organ-on-a-chip platforms**, and **high-sensitivity analytical assays** such as single-molecule detection. Whether implemented as continuous, multiplexed, or sequential perfusion, it is essential to be able to precisely control flow dynamics—such as **flow rate, laminar versus turbulent flow, and directionality**.
Table 1: Relevance of Microfluidic Perfusion in Life-Science Research
Field of application UsageTo explore further**Organ-on-a-chip/ Dynamic Cell Culture**Continuous perfusion of media to replicate physiologically relevant flow conditions, including shear stress, nutrient and oxygen exchange, and waste removal, to model in vivo microenvironments. 1. [HUVECs cultures under shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
2. [Controlling shear stress in 3D cell culture](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
3. [Multiplexed blood vessel-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/) **Live-cell imaging / Long-term Microscopy**Delivery of nutrients and reagents during imaging sessions to maintain cell viability and enable real-time observation of cellular processes. 1. [Automating calcium imaging in neural cells ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automating-calcium-imaging/)
2. [Automated multiplexed immunolabelling with Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/) **Drug response testing** Dynamic administration and sampling of pharmacological agents to assess dose-dependent cellular responses, facilitating high-throughput screening and toxicity evaluation. 1. [Tongue on chip : sweet and bitter taste response](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tongue-on-chip-receptomics-taste-assay/)
2. [Cancer-on-chip treatment response ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/) **Perfusion bioreactors and cell sorting** Scaled-up systems employing continuous perfusion to manufacture bioreagent (cells, DNA, exosome) and to sort and qualify it. 1. [Cell sorting microfluidic platform](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-platform-for-cell-and-particle-sorting-application/)
In organ-on-a-chip applications, this creates an[ in **vivo–like microenvironment compared to static cultures**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/). Perfusion provides a sterile, stable environment by avoiding repeated manual interventions and environmental fluctuations. The resulting stability enables long-term experiments, including live-cell imaging, monitoring of calcium transporters, and drug testing. Perfused systems enhance cell viability over extended periods and enable precise, dose-controlled exposure to multiple compounds.
Figure 1: Illustration of Microfluidic Perfusion (open loop and closed loop e.i. recirculation) in OOC System
## Best Practices in Microfluidic Perfusion
Effective perfusion relies on the integration of [**suitable materials**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/), precise channel architecture, and [design strategies that support the biological or chemical application](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/).
### Selecting Materials Based on Application Requirements
Depending on the application, the choice of [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/) materials is influenced by variables like mechanical qualities, chemical compatibility, and gas permeability which can be tailored to the specific application. These choices are guided by research and the targeted [biological modelling](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/).
**Various microfluidic chip materials:**
- ***PDMS (Polydimethylsiloxane)**: It is chosen for oxygenation purposes due to its* ***gas permeability****, however it can* ***absorb small hydrophobic molecules****, which may interfere with drug toxicology assays \[3\].*
- ***Glass and thermoplastics (e.g., PMMA, COC):** These materials are often chemically* ***inert*** *with low adsorption and preferred for applications requiring minimal leaching.*
- ***Hydrogels:** Emerging as biocompatible scaffolds for fully soft microfluidic systems, particularly* ***for tissue-mimetic and 3D culture environments*** *\[4\].*
Each tissue in the human body varies in function and morphology, therefore biomimetic models should account for this difference. For instance, materials suitable for mimicking bone (Young’s modulus ~20 GPa) will differ significantly from those used for brain tissue (Young’s modulus ~2 kPa) \[5\]\[6\]. For hypoxic environments, glass or low-permeability thermoplastics are preferred.Soft tissue modeling is better suited to flexible membranes or hydrogels.
In addition to material consideration, there are also modifications that can be made to the internal surfaces to support the intended biological function:
- *Enhanced cell adhesion, coat with ECM proteins (e.g., fibronectin, collagen).*
- *Non-specific adsorption prevention, apply PEGylation, BSA coating or other antifouling coatings \[7\]*
- *Plasma oxidation or chemical functionalization can improve hydrophilicity and wetting behavior.*
### Optimizing Chip Geometries and Dimensions
Channel design has an impact **on fluid dynamics** and **cellular responses** within microfluidic systems. The microenvironment’s architecture affects the mechanical cues received by cells \[8\], and channel dimensions and volumes impact [reagent diffusion and subsequent biological interactions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tongue-on-chip-receptomics-taste-assay/).
- [**Shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) influences key cellular responses including morphology, migration, and gene expression. Flow conditions should consider channel geometry and flow rate: to [approximate the shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/) to the in vivo-like shear ranges (typically 1–20 dyn/cm²) depending on the cell type.
- **Perfused channel dimensions affect reagent diffusion and sample exposure time.** While diffusion contributes to the transport of molecules within microfluidic systems, the dominant factor influencing cellular response in perfusion assays is the **convective flow of reagents** \[9\]. Precise control over channel dimensions and flow rates ensures that cells are exposed to well-defined reagent concentrations and temporal profiles. Variation in channel dimensions can alter flow velocity and residence time, leading to inconsistent reagent delivery or diffusion-dominated transport, which blurs concentration gradients and reduces assay reproducibility. Designing channels to optimize reagent perfusion enables reproducible cellular responses to stimuli, critical for quantitative biological assays.
- **Proper sealing of the microfluidic device** is essential to maintain controlled fluidic environments. Leaks caused by open ports, improperly bonded layers, or uncovered membranes can introduce unwanted flow paths, cross-contamination, or loss of reagents. This can disrupt fluid dynamics, therefore it is important to be able to [detect and prevent leaks](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/method-for-leak-detection/ "detect and prevent leaks"). Meticulous sealing—using appropriate adhesives, bonding techniques, or mechanical clamps—ensures device integrity, especially in multilayer or co-culture chips where spatial separation is vital. Proper sealing also facilitates sterile handling and reduces bubble formation by preventing air ingress.
**! Note on Microfluidic Device Use:**
When using commercially available microfluidic chips or flow cells, it’s essential to **calibrate system settings** and **consider the optical, chemical, and physical properties** of the materials. For instance, PDMS can absorb small hydrophobic molecules, potentially affecting dosing accuracy, while issues like membrane leakage or deformation in hydrogel-based chips can compromise sterility and sealing prior to perfusion.
### Avoiding Bubbles to Ensure Homogenous Flow
Bubbles can be a source of disruption to continuous flow. In 3D cell culture they cause cell damage, in assay it interferes with homogeneity of the flow profiles.
- **Consistent Temperature:** Temperature fluctuations can cause dissolved gases to nucleate into bubbles; for example, a temperature increase of just a few degrees Celsius can reduce gas solubility enough to induce bubble formation \[10\].
- [**Bubble prevention**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/) **strategies include** degassing media before use and incorporate bubble traps or in-line degassing membranes to capture and remove air bubbles that can disrupt perfusion. Incorporating bubble traps or degassing membranes on-chip physically removes bubbles before they reach sensitive cell culture regions.
Figure 2: Thermal imaging of bubble nucleation in microfluidic channel
### Selecting Appropriate Perfusion Pumps for Flow Control
Choosing the right pump type and flow control depends on the definition of technical specifications. There are [various instruments that are used for microfluidic perfusion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/):
- **Pressure-driven** pumps provide precise, programmable flow profiles with rapid response times, making them ideal for sensitive applications requiring stable, low-pulsatility flow; this stability helps maintain laminar flow, critical for replicating in vivo shear stresses.
- **Syringe pumps** deliver constant flow rates with typical accuracy of around 0.25%, but manual refilling interrupts flow and introduces pulsatility, which may affect sensitive cells or reactions.
- **Peristaltic pumps**, although easy to use, inherently produce pulsatile flow that can stress cells and complicate quantitative assays. It significantly affects the cell survival, continue to read [how it affects endothelial 3D cell culture](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/).
[Here you can find comprehensive review on the flow control technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/).
In addition to selecting the proper perfusion technology, it is also important to regularly calibrate and clean it. For example, biofilm deposits on flow sensors can cause drifts, even a small deviations in flow rate can significantly alter shear stress and cellular responses, impacting data reliability.
Figure 3: Performance of Pressure-driven flow controller vs Syringe Pump
## Innovations in Microfluidic Continuous Flow
### Automated Multiplexed Systems
Innovative approaches to multiplex the flow in microfluidics address the challenges of precisely managing multiple inputs and reagents and ensuring the stable liquid distribution in parallel channels. In pressure-driven microfluidics with ability to control multiple ports, allows creating specific manifolds allow parallel reagent delivery and medium recirculation.
To multiplex the sequential delivery of up to 10 reagents, Aria can be used to perfuse a chip with up to 10 distinct reagents, and its software allows automated injections.
Figure 4: Flow Illustration of flow board automation from [3D-VoC model](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/)
### Integrated Real-Time Sensing
On-chip and in-line sensor integrations (optical or electrochemical probes, or biosensors, for example for the [inflammatory markers](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tissue-chip-platform/)) are being used in the research to analyze and measure experimental outcomes. Closed loop control allows these sensors to continuously monitor the culture environment in real time and use the data to automatically adjust perfusion parameters. This ensures stable physiological conditions essential for cell health and reproducibility. One exampleis a compact microfluidic-embedded optical sensor array that was developed to track pH and dissolved oxygen in flowing media. This permits dynamic adjustments to maintain setpoint conditions during perfusion \[11\].
Figure 5: Photonic Sensor-Enabled Tissue Chip (a. Schematic of the working principle of the device. b. Exploded view with layers. c. Top view with outer dimensions of the device.
### Organ-on-a-Chip Media Perfusion
With the growth of organ-on-a-chip adoption, there have been adaptations of the technology to be able to match the physiological requirements of the models. Close loop recirculation has been adapted to provide many benefits. ensures sterility, provideslong-term recirculation, reduces the cost of reagent, and can amplify the secretome of the interest.
Continuous microfluidic perfusion systems—such as [Fluigent’s **Omi** platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)—are designed to replicate tissue-specific environments by providing precise, programmable flow control that maintains barrier integrity, tissue architecture, and long-term viability. It supports repeated dosing and long-term cultures, enhancing predictive capability in drug screening assays. A pressure device from TissUse allows them to manipulated their in-house OoCs.
[Learn more about capabilities of Omi, organ-on-a-chip fluidic platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/).
Figure 6: Omi system under bright-field microscopy
## Evolution microfluidic perfusion
**Microfluidic perfusion is evolving from individual systems toward highly integrated, smart, and scalable platforms. Looking ahead, there are several trends that are emerging to transform the field:**
- **Complex Multi-Organ Integration & Closed-Loop Systems:**
Expect a rise in “body-on-a-chip” ecosystems—networks of interconnected tissue chipsto model systemic physiological interactions. These may be coupled with tubeless manifold interfaces, to prevent leakage and bubble.
- **Novel Materials & Additive Manufacturing:**
Advances in smart polymers, and 3D printing will facilitate sophisticated custom geometries to allow bigger range of biomechanical simulations and flow control.
- **Regulatory Momentum and Standardization:**
As perfused micro physiological systems (e.g., organ-on-chip) gain regulatory acceptance, we’ll see standardized platforms entering drug development pipelines. The adoption of OoC in the US FDA Modernization Act 2.0 allows the useof the ogan-on-a-chip research to be able to translate to clinical applications.
**Key Focus Areas for Continued Innovation:**
- **Bubble Formation & Flow Stability:** Persistent issues with bubble nucleation remain; improved degassing techniques and real-time bubble detection are essential.
- **Long-Term Sterility & System Robustness:** Extended experiments demand closed systems with effective filtration, resilient seals, and designed-in redundancy to prevent microbial contamination
- **Manufacturing Scale-Up & Cost:** Moving from lab prototypes to commercial products necessitates durable, user-friendly systems that balance complexity with affordability—potentially through modular and reconfigurable units.
**Future Vision:** *As these trends and solutions converge, microfluidic perfusion systems will evolve into intelligent, reliable, and accessible tools. Their adoption will extend beyond specialized labs into mainstream biomedical research, drug development, and personalized medicine—ushering in a new era of dynamic, physiologically relevant in vitro modeling.*
## Related Solutions
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Programmable Injections of Sweeteners with the Fluigent Flow-EZ for Tongue-on-a-chip Receptomics Taste Assay Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies A multiplex microfluidic circuit for blood vessel-on-a-chip perfusion using Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Mimicking tumor microenvironment using a 3D microfluidic model to improve cancer investigations Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mimicking-tumor-microenvironment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Creating a Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform using Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Human Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) permeability -on-chip assessment Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References:
1. Horowitz LF, Rodriguez AD, Ray T, et al. Microfluidics for interrogating live intact tissues. Microsystems & Nanoengineering. 2020;6:69. doi:10.1038/s41378-020-0164-0 [nature.com](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41378-020-0164-0)
2. Hattori K, Sugiura S, Kanamori T. Pressure-driven microfluidic perfusion culture device for integrated dose-response assays. J Lab Autom. 2013 Dec;18(6):437–45. doi:10.1177/2211068213503155 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24014544/)
3. Sønstevold L, Koza P, Czerkies M, Andreassen E, McMahon P, Vereshchagina E, et al. Prototyping in polymethylpentene to enable oxygen-permeable on-a-chip cell culture and organ-on-a-chip devices suitable for microscopy. Micromachines. 2024;15(7):898. doi:10.3390/mi15070898 [doi.org](https://doi.org/10.3390/mi15070898)
4. Nie J, Fu J, He Y. Hydrogels: The next generation body materials for microfluidic chips? Small. 2020 Nov;16(46):e2003797. doi:10.1002/smll.202003797 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33103353/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
5. Rho JY, Ashman RB, Turner CH. Young’s modulus of trabecular and cortical bone material: ultrasonic and microtensile measurements. J Biomech. 1993;26(2):111–19. doi:10.1016/0021-9290(93)90042-D [researchgate.net](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/387715355_EMG-Based_Variable_Impedance_Control_for_Enhanced_Haptic_Feedback_in_Real-Time_Material_Recognition?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
6. Budday S, Nay R, de Rooij R, Steinmann P, Wyrobek T, Ovaert TC, et al. Mechanical properties of gray and white matter brain tissue by indentation. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater. 2015;46:318–30. doi:10.1016/j.jmbbm.2015.02.024 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25819199/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
7. Choi Y, Tran H-V, Lee TR. Self-assembled monolayer coatings on gold and silica surfaces for antifouling applications: a review. Coatings. 2022;12(10):1462. doi:10.3390/coatings12101462 [mdpi.com](https://www.mdpi.com/2079-6412/12/10/1462?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
8. Sun B, Xie K, Chen T-H, Lam RHW. Preferred cell alignment along concave microgrooves. RSC Adv. 2017;7:6788–94. doi:10.1039/c6ra26545f [pubs.rsc.org](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2017/ra/c6ra26545f?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
9. Huber D, Oskooei A, Casadevall i Solvas X, de Mello AJ, Kaigala GV. Hydrodynamics in cell studies. Chem Rev. 2018;118(4):2042–79. doi:10.1021/acs.chemrev.7b00317 [pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29420889/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
10. Pereiro I, Fomitcheva Khartchenko AF, Petrini L, Kaigala GV. Nip the bubble in the bud: a guide to avoid gas nucleation in microfluidics. Lab Chip. 2019;19(14):2296–2314. doi:10.1039/c9lc00211a [pubs.rsc.org](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2019/lc/c9lc00211a?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
11. Azimzadeh M, Khashayar P, Amereh M, Tasnim N, Hoorfar M, Akbari M. Microfluidic-based oxygen (O₂) sensors for on-chip monitoring of cell, tissue and organ metabolism. Biosensors. 2021 Dec 22;12(1):6. doi:10.3390/bios12010006 [pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8774018/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [Microfluidics-Interfaced Capillary Electrophoresis for Continuous Analysis of Nanoparticle–Bioentity Interactions ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidics-interfaced-capillary-electrophoresis/)
**Published:** June 20, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Paper from the BioMEMS and Nanoscale Engineering Group
Paper: Zafar, J.; Smadja, C.; Fabre, J.; Taverna, M.; Secret, E.; Siaugue, J.-M.; Mai, T. D. *Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical* **2025**, *439*, 137841
This study results from a collaboration between [Institut Galien Paris-Saclay](https://www.institut-galien.universite-paris-saclay.fr/) ([CNRS](https://www.cnrs.fr/fr), [Université Paris-Saclay](https://www.universite-paris-saclay.fr/en)), Adelis SAS, and [PHENIX](https://phenix.cnrs.fr/) (CNRS, [Sorbonne Université](https://www.sorbonne-universite.fr/en)). At the Institut Galien Paris-Saclay, the [Protéines et Nanotechnologies en Sciences Analytiques](https://www.institut-galien.universite-paris-saclay.fr/4-pnas/) (PNAS) team specializes in the development of miniaturized analytical techniques for studying biomolecules such as proteins and peptides. Their work focuses on advanced methods for biomolecular separation, quantification, and interaction analysis, including the integration of electrokinetic techniques and mass spectrometry, as well as the development of biosensors for healthcare applications.
The PNAS team Institut Galien Paris Saclay
## How Can Microfluidics Interfaced With Capillary Electrophoresis Advance Nanoparticle Interaction Studies?
Nanoparticles have emerged as key [**target analyte carriers**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/) in biomedical applications, particularly in drug delivery, diagnostics, and imaging. Understanding their interactions with biological entities, such as proteins, cells, and biofluids, is critical for optimizing their effectiveness in these applications. However, studying these interactions in real-time, within **dynamic biological environments**, presents a **significant challenge** due to the complex and ever-changing nature of biofluids.1–3
[**Capillary electrophoresis**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capillary-electrophoresis-using-microfluidic-electrophoretic-and-optic-modules/) has proven to be a powerful tool for the **separation and characterization** of **biomolecules and nanoparticles** due to its high sensitivity and precision. However, conventional capillary electrophoresis systems, often designed for bench-top analysis, are **not well suited** for continuous, **on-site sampling** or **real-time monitoring** of nanoparticle-bioentity interactions.4–6
**Microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis** offers a promising solution to overcome these limitations. By integrating **off-the shelf microfluidic systems** with capillary electrophoresis, it is possible to create a highly adaptable platform that allows **for continuous flow**, **precise sample handling**, and **real-time analysis**. This integration can not only facilitate better control over experimental conditions but also improves the overall efficiency and sensitivity of nanoparticle-bioentity interaction studies.1,7,8
Figure 1: The advantages of capillary electrophoresis as an analytical tool (from Moreira, O. et al.; Braz. J. Anal. Chem. **2022**).
## Aim of the Study
This study aims to design a modular **microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis** platform for continuous monitoring of interactions between functionalized nanoparticles and biologically relevant molecules under dynamic flow conditions. The system **integrates microfluidic modules for pulseless flow and automated injection** **with LED-based fluorescence detection** for real-time, sensitive analysis. As aproof of concept, the platform characterizes the interaction between **silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles** and **dopamine in artificial cerebrospinal fluid**. This interaction serves as an example of how nanoparticles can be used in targeted drug delivery systems, where they transport dopamine and enable its controlled release in the central nervous system.
This approach can demonstrate the capability of microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis to enhance the understanding of nanoparticle behavior in biofluid-like environments.
Figure 2: Schematic drawing of the microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis setup (GND: ground electrode; HV: High voltage electrode; BGE: background electrolyte).1
## Methodology toA Capillary Electrophoresis System Coupled with Microfluidics
The microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis platform was designed using modular components to enable precise, stable, and continuous fluid handling for automated sampling and injection. The microfluidic system was assembled from **Fluigent modules**, **including** [**Push-Pull pressure controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/) for pulseless bidirectional flow**,** [**M-Switch**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/) and [**L-Switch**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/) valves for dynamic channel selection, and 2-Switch for flexible fluid routing. The pressure and vacuum required for flow control were provided by compressed air (using [**Fluigent FLPG**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)) and a vacuum source. All microfluidic modules were controlled, and experimental steps were managed using [**OxyGEN software**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/), ensuring practicality and automated execution of fluid manipulation steps.
The electrophoresis setup consisted of polyimide-coated fused silica capillaries and a high-voltage power supply for dual-polarity operation (±30 kV). Detection was performed using a modular **LED-induced fluorescence system with a 480 nm excitation source**, optical focusing components, and a photomultiplier-based sensor for signal acquisition.
Silica-coated magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized by **sol-gel encapsulation of maghemite cores**, with fluorescent labels incorporated during shell formation. Their size and morphology were characterized by electron microscopy and dynamic light scattering.
Figure 3: Photo of the microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis system modules.1
Figure 4: Protocol used in OxyGEN for fluidic steps.1
“*Preliminary efforts were made to build systems with syringe pumps and different arrangements of sequential injection valves. However, with all tested setups we encountered failure to create stable and constant pressure for sample injection and manipulation of liquids in the tubings and through the capillary. It is indeed not trivial to generate a pulseless flow, as the strokes from the piston movement are inevitable. To overcome these problems, all syringe pumps and valves were finally replaced with the modular setup of pressure/vacuum controllers and valves, conventionally employed for microfluidic operations, which can be connected via ‘plug and play’ mode.”*
*From Zafar, J. et al.; Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical* ***2025****, 439, 137841.*
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
[
### Microfluidic Injection Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Proof of Concept: Continuous Monitoring of Nanoparticle–Dopamine Interactions
The modular microfluidic capillary electrophoresis system was developed to address the limitations of traditional capillary electrophoresis, particularly in laboratories with minimal infrastructure. It combines the advantages of both bench-top and microchip systems through a **modular**, **plug-and-play** design. The system **replaces syringe pumps** with **Fluigent’s Push-Pull pressure and vacuum controllers**, providing [**stable**, **pulseless flow**.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) With precise positive and negative pressures for sample injection (+30 to +100 mbar) and capillary flushing (−800 to +1000 mbar), the system enables full automation of fluidic manipulation, providing stable injection pressures with relative standard deviation (RSD) below 2.5%, and reproducible delivery times (RSD below 0.8%) (Table 1).
Table 1: Performance data for the test on injection reproducibility realized with the modular microfluidic capillary electrophoresis system.1
**Injection conditions (pressure and time)** **Mean value of peak area (mV·s)** **RSD % (n = 4) Peak area** **RSD % (n = 4) Delivery time** **50 mbar – 10 s** 2.17 1.03 0.54 **50 mbar – 20 s** 4.72 0.85 0.40**50 mbar – 30 s** 5.62 1.77 0.15 **50 mbar – 40 s** 6.70 1.71 0.14 **100 mbar – 10 s** 3.43 1.25 0.27 **100 mbar – 20 s** 4.89 2.47 0.69 **100 mbar – 30 s** 6.24 1.40 0.76 **100 mbar – 40 s** 7.54 1.25 0.17
The system also features microfluidic-interfaced fluorescence detection, providing **cost-effective**, **high-sensitivity analysis for fluorescent analytes**. It ensures high linearity and stability, making it suitable for monitoring fluorescent nanoparticles and their interactions with biomolecules.
As a proof of concept, the microfluidic-interfaced capillary electrophoresis system enabled **baseline separation of sulfobetaine-functionalized magnetic nanoparticles** from residual fluorophore using an optimized background electrolyte (Tris/MOPS, 50 mM, pH 9.5) (figure 5). This separation showed good **repeatability,** with RSD for peak areas and migration times below 4.3% and 2.9%, respectively. The ability to separate nanoparticles using electrophoresis is vital for ensuring the purity, size, and charge characteristics of [drug delivery systems](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/), which is crucial for optimizing their effectiveness in targeting specific tissues and controlling drug release.
Figure 5: Electropherograms of two different categories of magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with sulfobetaine. A) 47 nm spheric; B) 125 nm non spheric.1
Figure 6: Time-dependent electropherograms of 60 nm of the functionalized nanoparticles interacting with dopamine in continuous microflows of (A) PBS and (B) artificial cerebrospinal fluid.1
The interaction between magnetic nanoparticles and dopamine was monitored in continuous microflow under physiological conditions. At a dopamine concentration of 20 µM, the nanoparticle signal disappeared after 6 hours, indicating **complete interaction**. At higher dopamine concentrations of 50 µM and 200 µM, the complete interaction occurred after 4 hours and 2 hours, respectively. The interaction kinetics were consistent in both phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) and artificial cerebrospinal fluid, demonstrating **the robustness of this capillary electrophoresis** system in diverse **physiological conditions**.
## Conclusion
In summary, a **microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis platform** with LED-induced fluorescence was developed **using off-the-shelf components.** The modular design allows users to create **customized analytical setups** with operations not typically available in commercial systems, including automated continuous flow sampling. The system successfully separated fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with sulfobetaine, demonstrating its potential for drug delivery and diagnostics. Additionally, it effectively **monitored the interaction between nanoparticles and dopamine** in **continuous microflow**, offering a compact and flexible alternative to traditional microfluidic capillary electrophoresis systems.
## Related Solutions
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Microfluidic Injection Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Flow Sensing Technologies, A Review Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Capillary electrophoresis using microfluidic, electrophoretic, and optic modules Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
## References
1\. Zafar, J. *et al.* Microfluidics-interfaced capillary electrophoresis coupled with modular LED-based fluorescent detection: A new tool for continuous monitoring of the interaction between nanoparticles and bio-entities. *Sens. Actuators B Chem.* **439**, 137841 (2025).
2\. Ma, Z., Mohapatra, J., Wei, K., Liu, J. P. & Sun, S. Magnetic Nanoparticles: Synthesis, Anisotropy, and Applications. *Chem. Rev.* **123**, 3904–3943 (2023).
3\. Materón, E. M. *et al.* Magnetic nanoparticles in biomedical applications: A review. *Appl. Surf. Sci. Adv.* **6**, 100163 (2021).
4\. Moreira, O. *et al.* Capillary Electrophoresis Applied to Human Urine Analysis for Clinical Diagnosis: New Trends and Perspectives. *Braz. J. Anal. Chem.* (2022) doi:10.30744/brjac.2179-3425.RV-13-2022.
5\. Hartung, S., Minkner, R., Olabi, M. & Wätzig, H. Performance of capillary electrophoresis instruments – State of the art and outlook. *TrAC Trends Anal. Chem.* **163**, 117056 (2023).
6\. Schöneborn, H. *et al.* Novel Tools towards Magnetic Guidance of Neurite Growth: (I) Guidance of Magnetic Nanoparticles into Neurite Extensions of Induced Human Neurons and In Vitro Functionalization with RAS Regulating Proteins. *J. Funct. Biomater.* **10**, 32 (2019).
7\. Nguyen, N. V. T. *et al.* On-line dual-stage enrichment via magneto-extraction and electrokinetic preconcentration: A new concept and instrumentation for capillary electrophoresis. *Anal. Chim. Acta* **1255**, 341141 (2023).
8\. Nguyen, N. V. T. *et al.* Electroosmotic flow modulation for improved electrokinetic preconcentration: Application to capillary electrophoresis of fluorescent magnetic nanoparticles. *Anal. Chim. Acta* **1161**, 338466 (2021).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [PLGA microcapsules synthesis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
**Published:** January 21, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to PLGA microcapsules
### What is the need?
Encapsulation of Active Pharmaceutical Compounds in core-shell microcapsules is of great interest for several purposes including: taste and odor masking as well as controlled release of drugs. In pharmaceutics, the possibility to encapsulate drugs, nutrients, and living cells that can be protected by a **solid biocompatible shell** can be used to **target a specific site** for therapy. \[1\]
### What are the advantages of making double emulsion with PLGA shell?
In this context, PLGA microcapsules with shell and aqueous core have been widely studied because these polymer emulsions appear to be successful new drug delivery systems (DDS). Due to the good biocompatibility and biodegradability of this polymer, PLGA microcapsules can be used in various applications such as long-term drug release systems, vaccine adjuvants, and tissue engineering \[2\].
## How to generate PLGA Microcapsules using microfluidics
### PLGA Microcapsules System Setup
The production of droplets has been performed with the Complex Emulsions Production Platform, a lab system integrating all the components needed to produce simple and double emulsions.
### System component
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
### Reagents
**Core phase (and collect phase):**
- Phosphate Buffered Saline buffer (PBS, pH=7,28 Sigma-Aldrich) containing blue food dye
**Shell Phase 1: Priming and Cleaning Phase**
- Ethyl acetate (EtOAc, Merck)
OR
- Isopropyl acetate (IPAc, Sigma-Aldrich)
**Shell phase 2:**
- Ethyl acetate (EtOAc, Merck) containing 10% Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA, Resomer® RG 7555S ester terminated, Sigma-Aldrich)
OR
- Isopropyl acetate (IPAc, Sigma-Aldrich) containing 10% Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA, Resomer® RG 7555S ester terminated, Sigma-Aldrich)
**Continuous phase:**
- Water containing 1% Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA, Sigma-Aldrich)
## Synthesis of PLGA Capsules
Monodisperse double emulsion with PLGA shell synthesis is performed in 2 main steps:
1. Generation of **monodisperse** double emulsion in the Raydrop
2. Capsule formation by precipitation of the PLGA shell
### 1. Droplet Generation
To generate polymer emulsions easily, the system must be started with pure solvent in the shell phase (here IPAC). Once droplet formation is stabilized, the shell phase is switched to the solution containing the PLGA. This avoids possible clogging issues during the transient phase.
Figure 4 Generation of double emulsion in the Raydrop
Figure 5 Double emulsion waterIPACPBS obtained at the output observed under the microscope
### 2. PLGA Microcapsule Formation
After being generated, the polymer emulsions are collected in a glass Petri dish. IPAc contained in the shell phase diffuses into the continuous phase so the PLGA precipitates. As a result, droplets are solidified and become PLGA microcapsules.
15s after formation
200s after formation
Figure 6: PLGA microcapsules in the PBS solution. The left shows 15 seconds after the creation in the Raydrop. The right displays 200s in the PBS solution after the creation in the Raydrop. The shell thickness decreases, as the IPAc contained in the shell phase diffuses in the continuous phase.
## To go further
- [
### Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
## Partial Results: PLGA Microcapsules Synthesis
In this application note, different parameters have been studied. Firstly, the evolution of the PLGA microcapsules over time have been observed. Then, the release rate of the microcapsules was measured.
### Evolution of the Droplet Diameter During the Precipitation Process
Once formed, the droplets are collected in the same solution used in the core of droplets to match the osmolarity of inner and outer aqueous phases. An analysis of the size of the PLGA microcapsules is performed using a microscope and measurement software.
For a given sample, several measurements of the microcapsule diameter are made at different times. The evolution of the diameter is highlighted in Figure 7 and the operating conditions are shown in Table 1.
**Continuous phase** **Shell** **Core** Composition Water + 1% PVA EtOAc + 10% PLGA PBS pH = 7,28 + dye Pressure (mbar) 214 2404 104 Flow rate (µL/min) 10916.59.1
Table 1: Operating conditions for the evaluation of the diameter of capsules
Figure 7 Size of PLGA microcapsules as a function of time The PLGA shell stops shrinking after 300s A cut between 300sec and 3500s has been made in the graph for better understanding
Double emulsions with PLGA shell have a diameter ranging from 312 µm to 230 µm. We observe that during the precipitation process, the diameter of the microcapsules decreases. A diameter of 312 µm is obtained 20 seconds after droplet formation, while a diameter of 230 µm is obtained 300 seconds after droplet formation. After 300s, we observed that microcapsules are reaching a steady state and do not decrease further.
## Conclusion
The production of stable monodispersed microcapsules with a solid PLGA shell and an aqueous core using a microfluidic platform has been successfully achieved. The microfluidic platform allows one to optimize not only the core diameter but also vary the shell thickness by adjusting the flow rates of the different fluids.
These PLGA microcapsules can be used in a wide range of applications, like the encapsulation of active ingredients such as specific drugs, which will be delivered according to the pH acidity \[3\].
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microsphere-production/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
## Webinar Recording
- [
### WEBINAR: Encapsulation of fluorescent bacteria in double emulsions for FACS sorting
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-bacterial-encapsulation-facs/)
- [
### WEBINAR – Master the production of Double Emulsions
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-double-emulsion-production/)
- [
### Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
## Related Products
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
## References
\[1\] LEE, Myung Han, HRIBAR, Kolin C., BRUGAROLAS, Teresa, KAMAT, Neha P., BURDICK, Jason A. and LEE, Daeyeon, 2012. Harnessing Interfacial Phenomena to Program the Release Properties of Hollow Microcapsules. Advanced Functional Materials. 11 January 2012. Vol. 22, no. 1, p. 131–138. DOI 10.1002/adfm.201101303.
\[2\] Qi, F., Wu, J., Li, H., & Ma, G. (2018). Recent research and development of PLGA / PLA
microspheres / nanoparticles: A review in scientific and industrial aspects
\[3\] MONTAZERI, Leila, BONAKDAR, Shahin, TAGHIPOUR, Mojtaba, RENAUD, Philippe and BAHARVAND, Hossein, 2016. Modification of PDMS to fabricate PLGA microparticles by a double emulsion method in a single microfluidic device. Lab on a Chip. 2016. Vol. 16, no. 14, p. 2596–2600. DOI 10.1039/C6LC00437G.
\[4\] TU, Fuquan and LEE, Daeyeon, 2012. Controlling the Stability and Size of Double-Emulsion-Templated Poly(lactic- co -glycolic) Acid Microcapsules. Langmuir. 3 July 2012. Vol. 28, no. 26, p. 9944–9952. DOI 10.1021/la301498f.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microfluidic Control of Complex Emulsions for Chemical Sensing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/complex-emulsions/)
**Published:** October 16, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Paper from the National Dong Hwa University
Rakesh, N., Tu, H.-L., Chang, P.-C., Gebreyesus, S. T., Lin, C.-J., Innovative Real-Time Flow Sensor Using Detergent-Free Complex Emulsions with Dual-Emissive Semi-Perfluoroalkyl Substituted Α-Cyanostilbene. Adv. Sci. 2023, 2304108.
This study is a collaboration between [National Dong Hwa University](https://www.bing.com/search?q=National+Dong+Hwa+University&cvid=c0bf5d13e48c4bf68534644b3bc552fc&gs_lcrp=EgRlZGdlKgYIABBFGDkyBggAEEUYOTIICAEQ6QcY_FXSAQc0MDFqMGoxqAIAsAIA&FORM=ANAB01&PC=DCTS) and the [Institute of Chemistry at Academia Sinica Nangang](https://www.chem.sinica.edu.tw/) (Taiwan), led by [Prof. Che-Jen Lin](https://chejenlin.weebly.com/cjlin.html). His group focuses on three key areas: designing stimuli-responsive luminescent materials for sensing and bioimaging, developing organic porous frameworks for catalysis and energy storage, and creating soft materials integrated with microfluidic sensing for real-time detection and intelligent applications.
Learn more about the [CJLin Group](https://chejenlin.weebly.com/)
## Testimonial
> “*Our experience using the LineUp Flow EZTM pressure pump with the RayDrop chip has been positive. The pump’s high precision and accuracy have allowed us to achieve consistent and reproducible results in our microfluidic experiments. Additionally, the pump’s compact size and user-friendly interface have made integrating into our existing setup easy. The combination of Fluigent’s LineUp Flow EZTM pressure pump and RayDrop chip has great potential for advancing microfluidic research, and we are excited to continue exploring their capabilities in our ongoing studies.*“
>
> Che-Jen Lin, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at National Dong Hwa University. Organic Chemistry
## Why generate complex emulsions?
**Emulsions are microscale spheroid structures** formed by blending two immiscible liquids (often an oil phase and an aqueous phase). What differentiates [complex emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/ "complex emulsions") (figure 1b) from simple emulsions (figure 1a) is their multi-layered structure.
Within a complex emulsion, micro droplets of one liquid are intricately dispersed within another, forming a heterogeneous droplet with exceptional properties. When properly generated and stabilized, complex droplets can be used to encapsulate active or reactive compounds, such as Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients,\[2\] or to [design innovative functional particles](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/webinars/drug-encapsulation-in-biocompatible-microparticles-for-drug-delivery/). \[3\]
Some complex droplets can adopt temporary Janus configurations. Janus droplets have two distinct faces (figure 1c), each featuring unique properties achieved through selective surface modifications.\[4\] Their surface properties dynamically adjust over time or in response to external stimuli.
Figure 1 Examples of simple emulsions and complex emulsions a Single emulsions Scale bar of 200 μm Images b and c show complex emulsion droplets where b shows double emulsion complex droplets with a scale of 100 μm and c shows a Janus shape complex emulsion droplet with scale bar of 50 μm
## Generating complex droplets
### Emulsion Setup
In this study, complex emulsions were generated with a mixture of hydrocarbon oil (heptane) and fluorocarbon oil (FC-770). To ensure a homogeneous solution, the mixture of heptane and FC-770 was heated above the upper critical temperature (50°C). 4×10-7 mmol of CNFCPEG was dissolved in 500µL of heptane and 500µL of FC-770.
Figure 2 Complex emulsion setup using FlowEZ and Raydrop SE
To generate complex emulsifications, the researchers employed [Secoya’s single emulsion Raydrop ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)coupled with [Fluigent’s Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)TM flow controller to facilitate the creation of highly monodispersed droplets. Through this setup, they achieved precise control over pressures and flow rates, leading to the generation of controlled monodisperse droplets in the 50 to 80 µm range.
Figure 3 Raydrop SE principle
### Raydrop Double Emulsion
Alternatively, an easier way to produce double emulsions is by using the [new double emulsion Raydrop developed by Secoya](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/). Thanks to its double nozzles, this new Raydrop can generate double emulsions in one step, creating a core-shell structure. The size of the core and shell can be precisely controlled, offering versatility in applications such as drug delivery systems.
Figure 4A Double emulsion generation with the Raydrop DE
Figure 4B The double emulsion Raydrop offers precise control of shell thickness
## Using complex emulsions to measure iodine concentration
### The key role of CNFCPEG
In this study, CNFCPEG, an innovative compound, plays a major role in stabilizing complex emulsions without the need for external surfactants. CNFCPEG also exhibits two fluorescence colors (blue and green) depending on its aggregation state. When CNFCPEG aggregates in an organic phase, a blue color is observed, while the green excimer is observed when CNFCPEG self-assembles at the fluorinated oil/water interface (F/W). By evaluating fluorescence emissions, the distinction between H/F/W and F/H/W emulsions becomes clear and easily distinguishable*.*
Heptane-FC 770-CNFCPEG complex emulsion in DI water presents the H/F/W morphology. Addition of iodine to the DI water reduces the hydrophilicity of CNFCPEG’s PEG group, leading to an instantaneous morphology shift from H/F/W to Janus to F/H/W complex emulsion. This morphological shift, combined with the fluorescent color change, makes it possible to to detect the presence of iodine in water.
Figure 5 Microscopic bright field side view bright field bottom view and fluorescence bottom view of HFW emulsions in 05 wt FS 30 and FHW emulsions in 05 wt Tween 20 scale bar 50 µm The schematic illustration depicts CNFCPEG partition alongside the emission colors exhibited by the double emulsions 1
### Complex droplets as iodine real-time sensing platform
To enhance the precision and accuracy of data acquisition in real-time flow sensing, the researchers designed a Multiple-well Flow PDMS Chip (MWFC) that allows for parallel tracking of multiple droplets (figure 6). This innovative chip facilitates the monitoring of droplet behavior, morphological changes, and interactions within complex droplets.
Figure 6 Droplets settling into micro wells 1
Figure 7 a Schematic drawing of the method used to monitor morphology in MWFC b Morphological changes of complex emulsions in the chip under the flow of iodineaq 01 mg mL−1 at a flow rate of 05 mL min−1 scale bar 50 µm c The relation between time to morphological change and iodine concentration at a flow rate of 05 mL min−1 1
Iodine was injected into the MWFC, inducing a decrease in the hydrophobic nature of the CNFCPEG and initiating an instantaneous morphological change in the stabilized complex droplets (figure 7b, figure 8). The droplets transitioned from H/F/W to Janus more quickly with increasing iodine concentration. Slower flow rates corresponded to longer transition times, providing quantitative insights into analytes (figure 7c).
Figure 8 Droplet Changes to HFW Janus FHW with addition of iodine 1
Webinar Replay
## Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Get the best of Flow Control Technologies to perform highly monodispersed droplets. Learn everything you need in our [webinar recording.](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/ "exclusive webinar.")
✅ Precision in Emulsion Creation using the RayDrop from Secoya
✅ Mastering Flow Control through Flow EZ Pressure pump from Fluigent
✅**Case Study:** Fluorescent Complex Emulsions with **Prof. Che-Jen Lin** from Associate Professor – [National Dong Hwa University ](https://www.bing.com/search?q=National+Dong+Hwa+University&cvid=c0bf5d13e48c4bf68534644b3bc552fc&gs_lcrp=EgRlZGdlKgYIABBFGDkyBggAEEUYOTIICAEQ6QcY_FXSAQc0MDFqMGoxqAIAsAIA&FORM=ANAB01&PC=DCTS)
[Watch the replay](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
## Conclusion
In this case study, amphiphilic α-cyanostilbene CNFCPEG stabilized complex emulsions without the need for external surfactants, exhibiting morphology-dependent fluorescence that allowed for real-time iodine sensing through visible emission color shifts.
By integrating the RayDrop for precise droplet formation and FlowEZ for accurate flow control, this system enabled consistent and reproducible sensing without the need for bulky equipment.
The results highlight the potential of this approach for **developing portable, real-time chemical and biological sensing technologies**, offering an approach for on-site monitoring in fluid environments
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Platform for emulsions & droplets
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
## Discover key reviews covering into the potential and techniques behind double emulsion microfluidics
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Oil in Water Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References
\[1\]Rakesh, N., Tu, H.-L., Chang, P.-C., Gebreyesus, S. T., Lin, C.-J., Innovative Real-Time Flow Sensor Using Detergent-Free Complex Emulsions with Dual-Emissive Semi-Perfluoroalkyl Substituted Α-Cyanostilbene. Adv. Sci. 2023, 2304108. https://doi.org/10.1002/advs.202304108
\[2\]Linghao Qin, Yawei Niu, Yuemin Wang, and Xiaomei Chen, Molecular Pharmaceutics 2018 15 (3), 1238-1247, DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.7b01061
\[3\]Justin R. Finn, Janine E. Galvin, Modeling and simulation of CO2 capture using semipermeable elastic microcapsules, International Journal of Greenhouse Gas Control, Volume 74, 2018, Pages 191-205, ISSN 1750-5836, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijggc.2018.04.022.
\[4\]Bradley D. Frank, Markus Antonietti, and Lukas Zeininger, Macromolecules 2021 54 (2), 981-987, DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.0c02152
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [A review of Organ on Chip Technology - A White Paper](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
**Published:** June 14, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
### Download the white paper
\* Required field.
## Introducing Organs on Chips
An Organ on a Chip is a microfluidic [cell culture](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/webinars/organ-on-a-chip-towards-the-next-generation-of-cell-culture-platforms/) device created with microchip manufacturing methods that contains continuously perfused chambers inhabited by living cells arranged to simulate tissue- and organ-level physiology. Organ on Chip models in microfluidically supported biochips offer the possibility to more precisely regulate the environmental conditions critical to the growth of individual cell types. Miniaturized biochips allow for control of nutrition supply and removal of cellular waste products or secondary metabolites accumulating within the culture medium. Furthermore, oxygenation levels, hydrostatic pressure or [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/) can be adjusted to control such aspects as maintenance of cell layers’ barrier integrity and control of cell migration *in vitro*.
[By reproducing the multicellular architectures](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/how-to-reproduce-active-biomimetic-stimulation-in-vitro/), tissue-tissue interfaces, [physicochemical microenvironments](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/), and [vascular perfusion of the body](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biomechanics/), these devices produce levels of tissue and organ functionality not possible with conventional 2D or 3D culture systems. They also enable real-time high-resolution imaging and in vitro analysis of the biochemical, genetic, and metabolic activities of living cells in a functional context of tissues and organs. In the context of [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=drug+discobery) and development, OoC devices should be especially valuable for the study of molecular mechanisms of action, prioritization of lead candidates, toxicity testing, and biomarker identification.
This technology has great potential to advance the study of tissue development, organ physiology and disease etiology. Therefore, our goal in this review of [Organ on Chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) technology is to help you learn more about the details of this promising technology, from its theoretical basis and the different technology models in use, the many advantages and alternatives associated with its use, and the state of the art and recent advances, to its various applications in academia and the pharmaceutical industry.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
“We have a collaboration with Fluigent in an ANR with UTC where we want to parallelize organ-on-a-chip systems in order to test different drugs or different concentrations of drugs.”
**Nathalie Maubon** | CEO HCS Pharma
## A review of Organ-on-Chip technology: table of contents
### I. What are “Organs-on-chips” (OoC)?
1. Definition
2. Applications
### II. Why use OoC models?
1. “Breaking the *in vitro* impasse”
2. An alternative to animal models – 3R principle
3. Advantages of OoC models
4. Technical challenges
### III. What are the current OoC technologies available?
1. Materials used for OoC devices
2. OoC layouts classically used to recreate organ functions
3. Perfusion systems to deliver physiological flow
4. Mechanical stimulation
5. Readouts and sensors of physiological responses
### IV. What kind of cells are used to create OoC?
1. Cell lines
2. Primary cells from human donors
3. Human iPS (induced pluripotent stem cells)
4. Fragmented Organoids
5. Human biopsies
### V. What are the current single OoC models available?
1. Example 1: Lung-on-a-chip – The first OoC
2. Example 2: Gut-on-a-chip
3. Example 3: Tumor-on-a-chip
### VI. How to combine several OoC to create a “body-on-chip”?
1. Multiplexing of single OoC
2. Multiple organs into a single plate (multi-OoC plates)
3. Challenges of the multi-OoC field
### VII. Applications of OoC in academia and pharmaceutical industry
1. Towards an OoC rather than an *in vitro* validation experiment?
2. Drug development (Efficacy and Safety)
3. Pre-clinical ADME-Tox assay
4. Personalized medecine
### VIII. Conclusion
**References**
## Free content that may be of interest to you
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response
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**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics White Papers
---
### [The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Why Flow Control Stability Matters in Microfluidics?
Though microfluidics was initially developed for applications in analytical chemistry and physics, it has since expanded into biology, medicine, and materials science.1,2 Today, **[microfluidic technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/ "microfluidic technologies")** are not only **advancing research** but are also **part of everyday life**, powering devices like inkjet printers and diagnostic tests.3–6
While [the microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/) often receives the most focus, the **performance of the overall system** depends heavily on the **control of fluid flow** (Figure 1). In many systems, stable and precise flow control is essential. Variations in flow can impact experimental outcomes, reducing the **reliability** and **reproducibility** of results.7
*Figure *1* Example of a microfluidic setup*
This review explores the **importance of flow control stability in microfluidics**. We define key parameters such **as response time and resolution**, assess common strategies for **flow generation** and regulation, and finally illustrate **the role of flow stability** with applications from different fields.
## Key Parameters for Assessing Flow Control and Stability
**Flow control stability in microfluidics** refers to the **ability of a system to maintain a prescribed flow rate or pressure** with **minimal deviation** over time. Due to the sensitivity of microscale systems to even minor perturbations, precise control is essential to ensure experimental reproducibility and reliability.
Flow stability is commonly assessed using classical statistical indicators such as **range, standard deviation (SD), and coefficient of variation (CV),** all of which are directly applicable in microfluidic contexts. The range captures the span between the maximum and minimum values. The standard deviation provides a more representative measure of variability across time, while the CV, the ratio of SD to the mean, offers a normalized, dimensionless value, enabling comparison across systems operating at different flow rates.
Beyond these steady-state metrics**,** dynamic parameters play a critical role in evaluating how quickly and accurately a [flow-handling instrument can respond to changes](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/).
- **Response time** refers to the time between the sending of a command (keystroke) and the initial reaction of the system, such as the onset of fluid movement (Figure 2a).
- **Rising time** denotes the duration required for the system to increase from 10% to 90% of the target value, reflecting the speed of actuation (Figure 2b).
- **Settling time** is the total time needed for the system to reach and remain within a predefined error margin (typically ±5%) around the target value, encompassing both initial response and final stabilization (Figure 2c).
*Figure *2*: Examples of a) response time, b) rising time, and c) settling time of flow-handling instrument.*
**The shorter the response time,** the **faster the flow-handling instrument can execute its feedback** loop to compensate for any variations in the quantity of interest; thus, enhancing flow stability.
- **Resolution** refers to the smallest detectable change in the physical quantity (flow rate in our case) that a sensor can measure, or the smallest increment a controller can apply.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
**Higher resolution** allows the system to **more accurately track** **input commands** and finely regulate output, contributing significantly to flow stability.
Together, these parameters provide a comprehensive framework for characterizing both the static and dynamic aspects of flow control stability in microfluidic systems. This is essential for ensuring precision in increasingly complex and time-sensitive applications.
## Comparative Overview of Flow Control Instruments in Microfluidics
A variety of flow control systems are used in microfluidics, each with different mechanisms and performance characteristics. Among the most widely employed are [syringe pumps, peristaltic pumps, and pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/ "syringe pumps, peristaltic pumps, and pressure-based flow controllers"). While each has specific advantages, their ability to maintain stable, accurate, and responsive flow is a **key factor for ensuring precision in microfluidic applications**.
- **With Syringe** pumps a motor-driven plunger pushes fluid from a syringe into the microfluidic system. They have been used due to their ease of operation and accessibility. Their stepper motor actuation introduces **pulsatile flow** and results in relatively **long response times**, especially when adjusting flow rates or executing dynamic protocols in systems with resistance to flow. These characteristics can limit flow stability, particularly in [experiments requiring fine control](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/) or rapid transitions.
- **Peristaltic pumps** **compress flexible tubing segments** with **rotating rollers**, generating a forward-moving wave that drives fluid flow. This mechanism enables continuous, **non-contact fluid transport** and minimizes the risk of cross-contamination, making them well-suited for handling sensitive or hazardous fluids. However, intrinsic to their actuation principle is pulsatile flow, characterized by **periodic fluctuations** in flow rate. [These pulsations](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/) can become particularly pronounced at low flow regimes or in microfluidic systems with high sensitivity to transient shear forces and pressure variations, potentially compromising experimental precision and reproducibility.
- **[Pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Pressure-based flow controllers")** deliver fluid by regulating the pressure applied to a fluid reservoir. This provides **pulse-free, highly responsive, and stable flow control**. These systems can be coupled with feedback algorithms that enable users to set a target flow rate, with the applied **pressure continuously and dynamically adjusted to maintain the desired flow**.This compensates for variations in system resistance or fluid properties. An accurate closed-loop flow control system often requires the integration of a flow rate sensor. This approach offers **fast response times and stability,** making pressure controllers especially advantageous for high-precision and time-sensitive microfluidic workflows.
In the following graphs (Figures 3-4), we present a comparison between [Fluigent pressure-based controllers (Flow-EZTM)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Fluigent pressure-based controllers (Flow-EZ)"), syringe pumps, and peristaltic pumps in terms of flow stability.
Figure 3 *Flow rate response time for a pressure controller Flow EZ and a syringe pump during a an increase and b a decrease in flow rate*
*Figure 4a Flowrate stability for a pressure controller Flow EZTM and a syringe pump for a flow rate of 5 µLmin* *Figure 4bFlowrate stability for a pressure controller Flow EZ*TM* and a syringe pump for a flow rate of 50 µLmin*
## Examples of Applications Influenced by Flow Stability
At a micrometric scale, **flow control stability is critical across a wide range of applications**, directly influencing the reproducibility, and interpretability of experimental outcomes. Whether for imaging, biological manipulation, or particle processing**, stable flow** ensures that microfluidic conditions remain **consistent, minimizing variability and enhancing data reliability**. The following examples illustrate how precise flow regulation provides optimal performance across several key microfluidic techniques.
### 1. Imaging techniques
In **imaging applications**, flow stability is essential for producing **accurate and interpretable visual data.** Laser Speckle Contrast Imaging (LSCI), for instance, is used to assess blood flow dynamics. Syringe pump-induced flow fluctuations can be misinterpreted as biological variation, reducing result fidelity. **Pressure-based flow controllers** ensure **consistent flow rates**.[ In this case study](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/ " In this case study"), pressure-driven systems enhanced flow reproducibility and eliminated artifacts in LSCI, significantly improving the reliability of **high-resolution imaging** (Figure 5-6).8
*Figure *5*: a) Flowrate control between syringe and pressure system b) Microfluidic setup for LSCI Microscopy (Sullender, C. T. et al. J. Biomed. Opt.* ***2023****, 28 (03)).*
*Figure *6* Example of a human cortex captured by a surgical microscope and the corresponding speckle contrast image Sullender C T et al J Biomed Opt* ***2023*** *28 03*
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
### 2. Microscopy
In **Liquid Phase Transmission Electron Microscopy** (LPTEM), precise control of fluid flow is critical for **high-resolution imaging** of samples in liquid environments. [Integrating microfluidics with LPTEM](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/characterization-of-copper-electrodeposition-in-liquid-phase-electron-microscopy/) regulates the flow of reagents through the imaging area, ensuring that the liquid is consistently directed between the chips and into the observation zone (Figure 7). This setup maintains uniform temperature and environmental conditions and allows for the real-time study of dynamic processes, such as copper electrodeposition, without compromising the integrity of the sample (Figure 8). The control provided by pressure-driven systems is essential for **obtaining clear, reproducible imaging at the nanoscale**, offering valuable insights into phenomena that depend on consistent fluid movement for accurate analysis.
*Figure *7* Full setup of the system consisting of the microfluidic chip placed within the TEM Sample Holder connected to the Flow EZ*TM* pressure controller and a flow sensor in collaboration with DENSsolutions*
Figure 8 Time series of images showing the growth and etching process of Cu dendrites on the Pt electrode using microfluidics- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Microfluidics for Transmission Electron Microscopy: Characterization of Copper Electrodeposition
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/characterization-of-copper-electrodeposition-in-liquid-phase-electron-microscopy/)
### 3. High-Precision Micro-cannulas Manipulation
In developmental biology and physiological studies, such as **zebrafish heart analysis**, flow control stability ensures **accurate modulation of mechanical loads**. [In a case study (Dalhousie University)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/zebrafish-heart-model/), **micro-cannulas** were inserted into zebrafish embryos to inject saline upstream of the heart, inducing atrial dilation. Using pressure-based flow control allowed researchers to observe changes in heart rate and stroke area in real time (Figures 9-10). This approach revealed critical insights into mechano-mechanical coupling during early cardiac development and demonstrated how precise, stable flow is essential for in vivo manipulation at micro scales.9
*Figure *9* Electronic flow control system for acutely increasing cardiac preload intact larval zebrafish Baillie J Set al Front Physiol* ***2023*** *14 1086050*
*Figure *10*Acute volume loading protocol A Three 30s injections 3 μLmin with 90s rest periods taken before B1 B3 and after loading S1 S3 B Pressure and flow monitored using pressure flow control software Baillie J Set al Front Physiol* ***2023*** *14 1086050*
**In *C. elegans* experiments**, pressure-controlled systems facilitate **gentle and consistent immobilization** or reagent delivery, minimizing stress and mechanical disturbance to the organism. This improves the reliability of imaging, behavioral tracking, and neuronal stimulation protocols. 10,11
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Controlled Flow System for Altering Cardiac Mechanical Load in Zebrafish Model
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/zebrafish-heart-model/)
### 4. Cell Sorting
For **cell sorting and particle separation**, **flow control stability** determines the **accuracy and resolution of sorting outcomes.** Microfluidic single-cell sorters rely on consistent flow to direct cells based on size or markers. In an experiment using a spiral-shaped microfluidic device, pressure-based controllers enabled separation of 7.3 µm and 15 µm particles by maintaining defined flow conditions (Figures 11-12). The resulting high sorting fidelity was achieved through fine control of inertial forces.
*Figure *11* a Complete system b Schematic of the system c Close up of the microfluidic chip tests done in collaboration with microfluidic ChipShop*
*Figure *12* Image illustrating the position of the 15 µm green fluorescence and 73 µm red fluorescence diameter particles mimicking cells in the channel section at the outlet of unit 2 of the microfluidic device Flow rate 15 mLmin*
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Single cell sorting of Fluorescent Microbeads
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-platform-for-cell-and-particle-sorting-application/)
### 5. Lipid Nanoparticle (LNP) Production
In the development of **drug delivery**, **flow control stability** plays a crucial role in **determining particle size and uniformity**.12–14 [In this case study](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/) (from the Ca’Foscari University of Venice), researchers used microfluidic mixers to produce **amiodarone-loaded liposomes** by adjusting the flow rate ratio (FRR) between aqueous and organic phases. Pressure-based flow controllers maintained a **constant total flow rate** (TFR) and **precisely modulated the FRR**, yielding liposomes with desirable size distributions and polydispersity indices (Figures 13-14). Stable flow was essential to ensuring consistency across batches, ultimately impacting therapeutic performance and reproducibility. 15
*Figure *13*Impact of FRR on liposome size Saorin A et al Sci Rep* ***2024*** *14 1 6280*
*Figure *14* TEM images of the obtained liposomes for each FRR Saorin A et al Sci Rep* ***2024*** *14 1 6280*
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Drug-Loaded Liposome Preparation Using Microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/)
### 6. Organ-on-a-Chip (OOC)
**OOC system**s require controlled liquid flow to **mimic physiological microenvironments** and support long-term cell viability and function. This is particularly important in [gut-on-a-chip platforms](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/) and other systems, where fluid-induced [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) regulates epithelial differentiation, barrier integrity, and microbial interactions. As previously explained, traditional methods such as peristaltic pumps often introduce flow fluctuations at low rates and require frequent recalibration. Pressure-based flow controllers offer **accurate, pulse-free flow delivery and rapid responsiveness.** When applied to gut-on-chip models, control enables the formation of uniform epithelial monolayers under physiologically relevant conditions, making the system suitable for studying intestinal function. Controlled flow permits the generation of robust and reproducible tissue models, such as [monolayers](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/), that are directly usable for Organ-on-a-Chip applications (Figure 14).
*Figure 14 Microscopy photographs 10X of a perfused microfluidic channel using a pressure based recirculation platform Fluigents Omi after 6 days of recirculation in collaboration with CNRS LIED Université Paris Cité*
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
## Conclusion
We have highlighted the **critical role of flow control stability** in microfluidic systems and its impact on many diverse applications including microscopy, high-precision manipulation, cell sorting, lipid nanoparticle production, and OOC. We compared pressure-based flow controllers to syringe pumps and peristaltic pumps, showing how **pressure-driven systems** provide **superior stability and accuracy**. Continued advancements in flow control technologies will further refine microfluidic applications, **opening new possibilities for high-precision research** and innovation across multiple disciplines.
👉 Ready to improve flow control stability in your setup? Contact our experts or explore our microfluidic pressure control systems.
[Talk to an expert](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Related content
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## Resources & Expertises
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
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Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
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Microfluidics Case Studies Drug-Loaded Liposome Preparation Using Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging. Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
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## References
1\. Whitesides, G. M. The origins and the future of microfluidics. *Nature* **442**, 368–373 (2006).
2\. Battat, S., Weitz, D. A. & Whitesides, G. M. An outlook on microfluidics: the promise and the challenge. *Lab. Chip* **22**, 530–536 (2022).
3\. Zub, K., Hoeppener, S. & Schubert, U. S. Inkjet Printing and 3D Printing Strategies for Biosensing, Analytical, and Diagnostic Applications. *Adv. Mater.* **34**, 2105015 (2022).
4\. Su, W., Cook, B. S., Fang, Y. & Tentzeris, M. M. Fully inkjet-printed microfluidics: a solution to low-cost rapid three-dimensional microfluidics fabrication with numerous electrical and sensing applications. *Sci. Rep.* **6**, 35111 (2016).
5\. Iyer, V., Yang, Z., Ko, J., Weissleder, R. & Issadore, D. Advancing microfluidic diagnostic chips into clinical use: a review of current challenges and opportunities. *Lab. Chip* **22**, 3110–3121 (2022).
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7\. Cavaniol, C., Cesar, W., Descroix, S. & Viovy, J.-L. Flowmetering for microfluidics. *Lab. Chip* **22**, 3603–3617 (2022).
8\. Sullender, C. T. *et al.* Using pressure-driven flow systems to evaluate laser speckle contrast imaging. *J. Biomed. Opt.* **28**, 036003 (2023).
9\. Baillie, J. S., Gendernalik, A., Garrity, D. M., Bark, D. & Quinn, T. A. The in vivo study of cardiac mechano-electric and mechano-mechanical coupling during heart development in zebrafish. *Front. Physiol.* **14**, (2023).
10\. Bruggeman, C. W., Haasnoot, G. H. & Peterman, E. J. G. Microfluidics and fluorescence microscopy protocol to study the response of *C. elegans* to chemosensory stimuli. *STAR Protoc.* **4**, 102121 (2023).
11\. Rahimpouresfahani, F., Tabatabaei, N. & Rezai, P. High-throughput light sheet imaging of adult and larval C. elegans Parkinson’s disease model using a low-cost optofluidic device and a fluorescent microscope. *RSC Adv.* **14**, 626–639 (2024).
12\. Jaradat, E., Weaver, E., Meziane, A. & Lamprou, D. A. Microfluidics Technology for the Design and Formulation of Nanomedicines. *Nanomaterials* **11**, 3440 (2021).
13\. Jaradat, E., Weaver, E., Meziane, A. & Lamprou, D. A. Synthesis and Characterization of Paclitaxel-Loaded PEGylated Liposomes by the Microfluidics Method. *Mol. Pharm.* **20**, 6184–6196 (2023).
14\. Ghodke, J. *et al.* The Manufacturing and Characterisation of Eugenol-Enclosed Liposomes Produced by Microfluidic Method. *Foods* **12**, 2940 (2023).
15\. Saorin, A. *et al.* Microfluidic production of amiodarone loaded nanoparticles and application in drug repositioning in ovarian cancer. *Sci. Rep.* **14**, 6280 (2024).
**Catégories de ressource:** Advantages of Pressure-Based Microfluidics
---
### [Discontinued software](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/discontinued-software/)
**Published:** January 17, 2020
**Author:**
**Content:**
## MAESFLO
### Content :
- MAESFLO software and user manual
- ESS Control software and ESS-related user manuals
- ESS TTL Configurator software and user manual
- Flow-Rate Platform (FRP) software and FRP user manuals
- Script Module and user manual
- Software Development Kits
- MFCS™ Series user manuals
- MAESFLO user manual
- FLPG user manual
[Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
### Installation procedure
1. Download and unzip the file
2. In the *MAESFLO 2019* folder open the software folder you would like to install
3. In the folder open the *Volume* folder then double-click on the *setup.exe* file
4. Follow the indications from the installation wizard to complete the procedure
5. Repeat steps 2-4 for each software you would like to install
## MAT
### Content :
- MAT software
- MAT user manual
[Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
[Tutorials](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-haqkAqwm1w&list=PLqaABIaE3qQoUPxZJ0QtgwYiWDQzT9rW2)
### Installation procedure
1. Download and unzip the file
2. In the *MAT* folder open .exe file to install
3. Follow the indications from the installation wizard to complete the procedure
## A-i-O
### Content :
- A-i-O software
- A-i-O user manual
[Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
[Tutorials](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJdlrA9ke3o&list=PLqaABIaE3qQopzpO2Xjk0pnNDlq7Qb3ga)
### Installation procedure
1. Download and unzip the file
2. In the A-i-O folder open .exe file to install
3. Follow the indications from the installation wizard to complete the procedure
**Catégories de ressource:** Download software
---
### [An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
**Published:** January 14, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
### Download the white paper
\* Required field.
## TABLE OF CONTENTS:
### 1. What is microfluidics?
1. Microfluidics history
2. Microfluidics definitions & advantages
3. How to select the right microfluidic pump
4. How to choose a microfluidic chip
### 2. Expertise pages
1. Microfluidic volume definitions
2. Microfluidic resistance
3. Flow control technology
4. Volumetric control technology
5. Microfluidic Flow Control Technology: Strengths & Weaknesses
### 3. Advantages of pressure-based microfluidics
1. Extended capabilities of pressure driven flow for microfluidics applications
2. Microfluidic device stability
3. What is the responsiveness in the case of a microfluidic system and how to improve it?
### 4. Microfluidic accessories
1. Microfluidic tubing
2. The different flow control & flow measurement technology
### 5. Software in microfluidics
1. Droplets in microfluidics
2. Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
3. How to ask cells what proteins they produce?
### 6. Microfluidic setup flow rate & pressure calculator
## Step in Microfluidics with our Complete Review
## With this white paper, you will have a complete overview on microfluidics
Microfluidic technology refers to the study of fluid manipulation at the micrometer scale. Fluids behave differently at the micrometer scale than in everyday life and these unique characteristics are the key to new scientific experiments and innovations. In the case of microfluidic devices, microchannels range from sub-micron to a few millimeters.
Today, microfluidics is emerging as a cutting-edge technology that finds [applications](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/) in diverse fields ranging from biology and chemistry to information technology and optics.
In particular, [microfluidics is widespread in research areas](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/) as it enables high throughput, multiplexed and highly parallel assays, faster analysis due to reduced reaction times, an overall reduction of cost per analysis, precise measurement, and many other advantages.
In this white paper, we provide a complete overview of microfluidic technology, including the theoretical basis of microfluidics (its [history](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/what-is-the-history-of-microfluidics/), [definitions,](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/) and elements to take into account to choose the right microfluidic pump or chip), expertise pages (where you can acquire all the knowledge related to flow and volume control) and all the information about the [advantages of using pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/).
You will also learn how to produce highly reproducible and accurate [droplets](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) with high monodispersity, compatible with a large number of biomedical applications, and how to perform [Drop-Seq protocols](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/) for Next Generation Sequencing application. Finally, you will get to know in depth all the microfluidic accessories that you may need in your future experiments to obtain the best results in the laboratory.
Fill in the form and download the file to learn all about the basics of microfluidics and how to use it to perform experiments with the most reliable results.
## All White Papers
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
## Related Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Interviews & Testimonials
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Microfluidic 3D Printing for High-Resolution Multimaterial Fabrication Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidic-3d-printing/)
- [ Interviews & Testimonials Users Testimonials – They trust Fluigent’s Instruments Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidic-products-user-testimonials/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging. Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics White Papers
---
### [Shear Stress Calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
**Published:** June 9, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Set your parameters and calculate
Flow parameters
Pressure Pascal Bar mBar psi kpa atm N/m² dyn/cm²
Flow Rate m³/s l/hr µL/hr µL/min mL/min mL/hr
Shear Stress Pascal Bar mBar psi kpa atm N/m² dyn/cm²
Fluid Properties
Acetone (20°C) Blood (37°C) Ethanol (20°C) Water (20°C) Water (37°C) Cell culture media +10% serum (37°C) Custom
Viscosity Pa⋅s N⋅s/m² kg⋅m⁻¹⋅s⁻¹ P(poise) cP g⋅cm⁻¹⋅s⁻¹ dyn⋅s/cm²
Density kg/m³
Tubing Resistance
No
Yes
Inner Diameter m cm mm µm nm in
Length m cm mm µm nm in
Microfluidic chip: Channel geometry and dimensions
BE-Flow (BEOnChip) BE-Double Flow (BEOnChip) BE-Transflow (BEOnChip) µ-slide VI 0.4 (Ibidi) µ-slide I Luer 02 (Ibidi) µ-slide I Luer 04 (Ibidi) µ-slide I Luer 06 (Ibidi) µ-slide I Luer 08 (Ibidi) Fluidic 268 (Chipshop) Fluidic 431 (Chipshop)
Diameter m cm mm µm nm in
Length m cm mm µm nm in
Height m cm mm µm nm in
Width m cm mm µm nm in
Compute At least one required field is missing. Be sure to fill all the steps before computing.
Error: Height can’t be greater than width.
SHEAR STRESS :
FLOW RATE :
PRESSURE :
REYNOLDS NUMBER :
VELOCITY :
Recommended products :
Name SKU Range [More Info](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit) [Buy Online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/flow-unit/)
Name SKU Range [More Info](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) [Buy Online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-flow-ez/)
Name SKU Range LineUp™ Push-Pull ELUPPU1000 -800 to 1000 mbar [More Info](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/) [Buy Online](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-push-pull/)
[**Learn more about how to control the shear stress in your microfluidic experiments**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
## What is shear stress?
Shear stress is the dragging force created by fluid friction on a surface in motion. Cells exposed to fluid flow experience this stress, influencing their phenotype, morphology, and maturation.
### Optimize Your Experiments with Shear Stress Calculator
Use our Shear Stress Calculator to precisely determine your experimental parameters. Input flow rate, pressure, microfluidic chip dimensions, and tubing length to apply the ideal shear stress for your cell culture under flow conditions.
### Considerations for Hydraulic Resistance
The dimensions of your chip (width) and connected tubing (inner diameters and length) collectively determine the overall hydraulic resistance. These factors are crucial in achieving accurate shear stress in your system.
## Why Shear Stress Calculation Matters
Accurate shear stress calculation is vital for designing experiments that replicate physiological conditions and yield dependable results. Our Shear Stress Calculator streamlines this process, offering a user-friendly interface for determining shear stress values in microfluidic systems.
### Easy Experiment Optimization
Designed with simplicity in mind, our shear stress calculator accommodates both beginners and experts. Its intuitive interface allows researchers to confidently input parameters, ensuring accurate shear stress values for successful experiments.
## Tutorial video
Our **Shear Stress Calculator** helps determine experimental parameters, by predicting the shear stress level induced by a set-up and an application.
## Cylindrical channel
For a circular cross-section of diameter d
Shear stress is:
**τ = 4ηQ / r³π**
*Where Q is the flow rate, η the dynamic viscosity and r the radial distance from the centerline of the channel (r=d/2)*
## Rectangular channel
In rectangular channels, the flow velocity profile and subsequent shear stress are more complex. Wall shear stress is not constant and varies across the top, bottom, and side walls of the channel. However, the geometry can be simplified by considering two infinite parallel plates instead of closed channels.
Under this assumption, the shear stress follows the equation:
**τ = 6ηQ / h²w**
*Where Q is the flow rate, η the dynamic viscosity, h the channel height and w the channel width*
In order to determine the shear stress applied onto your cells cultured under flow, please indicate the following values:
- Flow parameters (flow rate, pressure or shear stress)
- Fluid properties (viscosity and density)
- Tubing dimensions (optional) – important to calculate the hydraulic resistance of your system
- Channel geometry and dimensions inside your microfluidic chip – important for both the hydraulic resistance and the shear stress
## Why use our shear stress calculator
- To extract the value of the shear stress applied in your system when working with a fixed flow rate or a fixed pressure
- To determine which flow rate or pressure to apply in order to deliver a specific shear stress
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Interviews & Testimonials
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Creating a Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform using Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [ Interviews & Testimonials Panel Discussion & Interviews – Microfluidics & Organ-On-Chips Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-panel-discussion-interviews-2022/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfabrication of Microfluidic Chips: Materials and Methods Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
[
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
[
### Easy droplet generation chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
[
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
[
### Flow Gradient Chip for 3D Cell Culture
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
[
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Support & Tools
---
### [Programmable Injections of Sweeteners with the Fluigent Flow-EZ for Tongue-on-a-chip Receptomics Taste Assay ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tongue-on-chip-receptomics-taste-assay/)
**Published:** April 24, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Receptomics a Novel Approach for Reproducible Sensory Panels
Dr. Jongsma’s team at Wageningen University has developed a **tongue-on-a-chip platform** based on an innovative **microfluidic technique** called **receptomics**. This technology permits the measurement of how various receptor proteins respond to different substances under controlled flow conditions.
The objective is to be able to **predict the sense of taste in vitro** accurately predicting panel experiments when quantities are low and purification or regulatory costs are high. In a recent publication by Dr. Roelse et al. (2024) \[1\], such a platform was used to evaluate known sensory attributes of sweeteners by analyzing receptor activation profiles.
The system employed a receptor cell array containing sweet and six bitter G protein-coupled receptors (GPCR receptors. These receptors were expressed in HEK293 live cells seeded onto a **printed DNA grid**—roughly one square centimeter in size—on a glass slide. Through reverse transfection, each spot on the array expressed a different receptor, forming a **functional receptor cell array.**
Dr. Roelse worked at Wageningen research for 17 years and then joined the startup InsectSense as partner and chief scientist officer (CSO) to further develop [ReceptomiX technology](http://www.ReceptomiX.com "ReceptomiX technology") and make it available for the labs across the world.
*Figure *1* Receptomics Taste Assay Illustration*
During testing, the array is exposed to pure and mixed sweeteners through a precisely controlled flow. Using FRET imaging and a mapped concentration gradient, the platform captures calcium signaling responses in real time.
This allows researchers to reproduce key sensory features such as sweetness thresholds, onset, lingering effects, and bitter off-notes.
[Learn more about Human Sensation on a Chip](https://www.wur.nl/en/research-results/research-institutes/plant-research/business-units/bioscience/show-bioscience/receptomics-human-sensations-on-a-chip.htm)
## How to Optimize the Sample Exposure Control Parameter
The **microfluidic system** consists of tongue-on-a-chip receptor flow cell connected to a [pressure-based Fluigent pump](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "pressure-based Fluigent pump") with a[ flow sensor ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/ " flow sensor ")to keep the reagent perfusing at a **steady rate**.
Samples were delivered using an **injection loop** with a fixed volume, which makes it possible to control how long the cells are exposed to the sample, based on flow speed and the size of the flow chamber.
To understand how the sample spreads through the flow cell, the team used **fluorescein dye in an empty chip** to establish the reference.
The purpose of this test is to evaluate:
- How quickly the dye enters (rise)
- How long it stays (peak width)
- How quickly it clears out (fall).
*Figure *2* Scheme of Microfluidic Loop with FlowEZ Pressure Controller*
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Injection Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/)
The curves in Figure 3 confirm that the system **consistently delivers the dye with very little variation**, less than 1 second difference between repeats at full width at half maximum (Δfwhm). The flow dynamics created gradual sigmoid entry and exit curves, rather than perfectly square pulses.
This is a result of laminar flow and diffusion effects as the dye moves through narrow channels as well as slight timing differences when the dye reaches all replicated receptor spots of the cell array.
*Figure 3 Microfluidic System Calibration Curve with Fluorescein Dye Injection*
As shown in Table 1, actual exposure times closely match theoretical predictions under most conditions, particularly at lower injection volumes. The values in bold correspond to the selected experimental conditions
**Table 1**. Results of Flow Cell Volume, Injection Volume and Flow Speed Calibration
**Flow cell volume in μL** **Injection volume in μL** **Flow speed in μL/min** **Theoretical exposure time in s** **Fwhm** **in s** M**aximum rise/s in %** **Maximum fall/s in %** 50 300 100 180 185 (±1) 2.4-1.350 300 3006060 5.0-3.350 300 6003030 10.3-6.050 300 9002021 15.8-8.3100300 100 180 186 (±1) 2.1-1.3**100****300****300** **60** **59****4.5** **-3.4** 100300 60030318.9-6.8100300 900202010.9-8.2\*Partial results table for full data please consult the full research paper
Regardless of the flow rate or injection size, the signal always rose faster than it fell. The rise part occurs during filling of the flow cell with dye. This is faster than the clearing out phase due to the extra mixing and diffusion occurring in the wider dimensions of the flow cell and the extra time. Higher flow rates produced steeper slopes, with rise values increasing from 2.1%/s at 100 μL/min to 10.9%/s at 900 μL/min, and fall values becoming more negative accordingly—from –1.3%/s to –8.2%/s. The peak widths, particularly at moderate flow rates, remained close to the predicted exposure times, confirming the reliability of the fluidic system in delivering controlled sample durations.
## Sweet Receptor Response Onset and Lingering
In the **tongue-on-a-chip taste assays**, FRET (Förster Resonance Energy Transfer) images for CFP and YFP channels (reporting GPCR activation via the Twitch2B calcium sensor) were collected and processed in ReceptomX software as described by Wehrens et al. (2019) \[2\]. The spots with fewer than 15 fluorescent pixels or receptor types with fewer than five replicates were excluded to ensure data quality.
After smoothing and interpolating to correct for timing offsets between CFP and YFP frames, each spot’s response was calculated as the iRatio—the difference between its baseline and peak CFP/YFP ratio.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2025/04/sweet-receptor-response.jpg)
*Figure *4* Sweet Receptor Response Profiles Calibrated for the Ligand Concentration Relative to a Fluorescein Injection dashed line Advantame A and sucrose B*
In each test, fluorescein dye was injected as a reference to tracking the cellular response. All signals were scaled so that the highest response was set to 100%, and the start of each injection was aligned to the same time point (T = 50 seconds). Each experiment combined three responses:
1. the reference fluorescein injection
2. a medium-level sweetener dose (around the EC50)
3. a higher dose that triggered a strong, maximum response.
While the calcium signal in the cells started to rise as the fluorescein entered, the peak response usually happened a little later. This delay may reflect the time for cells to fully react, which is measured as a sweetener induced calcium peak (e.g., advantame: 5 ± 2 s; sucrose: 13 ± 2 s).
To make this timing measure reliable and easy to compare between experiments, the samples should be exposed for a short and consistent duration, helping to avoid broad or messy response curves. The lingering on the other hand was measured as the difference in full width at half maximum (Δfwhm) relative to fluorescein (e.g., advantame: 39 s; sucrose: 6 s).
Although these absolute times are shorter than human sensory values, the relative onset and lingering rankings mirror panel data. This consistency indicates that **the tongue-on-a-chip can effectively model the relative taste kinetics observed in humans**.
## Conclusion
The tongue-on-a-chip platform, powered by receptomics and programmable microfluidic control, offers a reproducible and high-throughput method to evaluate taste receptor responses in vitro. It successfully captures key sensory attributes such as onset and lingering, closely mirroring human perception rankings. This system holds promise for advancing food science by complementing or even replacing traditional taste panels.
To explore the full experimental results, data, and applications of this innovative platform, we invite you to [read the complete paper.](https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acs.jafc.4c00815 "read the complete paper.")
👉 Ready to integrate flow control technology into your workflow? Contact our experts or explore our microfluidic pressure control systems.
[Contact an expert](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
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### Microfluidic Injection Valve
Read more
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## Expertises and resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/organoid-culture-in-micro-beads/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## **References**
\[1\] Roelse M, Krasteva N, Pawlizak S, Mai MK, Jongsma MA. Tongue-on-a-Chip: Parallel Recording of Sweet and Bitter Receptor Responses to Sequential Injections of Pure and Mixed Sweeteners. *J Agric Food Chem*. 2024;72(28):15854–15864. doi:10.1021/acs.jafc.4c00815
\[2\] Wehrens R, Roelse M, Henquet M, van Lenthe M, Goedhart PW, Jongsma MA. Statistical models discriminating between complex samples measured with microfluidic receptor-cell arrays. *PLoS One*. 2019;14(4):e0214878. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0214878
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Human Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) permeability -on-chip assessment ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/)
**Published:** October 17, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
Cynthia Hajal, Giovanni S. Offeddu, Yoojin Shin, Shun Zhang, Olga Morozova, Dean Hickman, Charles G. Knutson & Roger D. Kamm
Nat Protoc 17, 95–128 (2022).
## Introduction
### What is Blood-Brain Barrier permeability?
The **Blood-brain barrier** (BBB) is a network of vessels that acts as a strong barrier that separates blood from the brain’s fluid in the CNS. It is made of **specialized endothelial cells** in these vessels that **prevent** most **substances from freely moving in and out of the brain**.
The BBB controls what can enter the brain from the bloodstream. The **blood-brain barrier permeability** determines how easily substances can pass through to reach the brain.
It is highly selective and tightly regulated. Its main job is to keep the brain safe from things that could be harmful, while letting important nutrients and molecules go through. This helps maintain a **stable environment** for the brain and **protects** it from harmful substances.
### What impact the Blood-Brain Barrier permeability?
The BBB’s permeability is influenced by various factors, such as neurons and extracellular matrix, that work together to regulate its function.
Under normal conditions, the BBB **prevents the passage of bacteria, large molecules, and most small molecules into the brain**. To enter the brain, substances need to be small, lipid-soluble, and not actively transported out. Some substances can cross using specific transport mechanisms. However, in certain situations like inflammation or injury, the BBB’s integrity can be compromised, allowing larger and more hydrophilic substances to get through.
BBB permeability can vary depending on several factors:
1. **Size and structure of molecules:** Small, lipid-soluble molecules can go through the BBB more easily than larger, polar molecules which may require specific transport mechanisms.
2. **Charge**: Charged molecules may need specific transporters to cross the BBB due to the barrier’s hydrophobic nature.
3. **Transport mechanisms:** Various transport mechanisms, such as passive diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport, and transcytosis, regulate the movement of substances across the BBB. These mechanisms can influence the permeability of molecules.
4. **Tight junction integrity:** The BBB is composed of endothelial cells that are linked tightly together, creating a barrier that stops substances from moving easily between cells. When the tight junctions in the brain are disrupted, it can increase BBB permeability and allow substances to leak into the brain.
### What are the existing BBB models?
*In vitro* human **blood-brain barrier (BBB) models** are needed to assess the barrier **permeability**, pathophysiological molecular transport mechanisms and enable the design of targeted therapies for neurological disorders.
Several 2D culture systems have been designed but often fail to recapitulate the 3D cellular organization of brain capillaries.
The generation of 3D BBB models has allowed the production of tube-like vessels, however their geometries as well as cellular organization are still far from reflecting blood brain barrier *in vivo*. Here, *Hajal et al*., developed **a human BBB model-on-chip resembling the natural BBB that displays relevant gene expression profiles and vessel permeability values**. They also developed quantitative measurement of perfusate molecules.
## Experimental procedure
The authors provide a detailed protocol comprising the different steps to fabricate their BBB model as well as methods to quantitatively analyze molecular BBB permeability using the [microfluidic technology.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
Briefly, [PDMS microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) were molded from a silicon wafer fabricated by soft photolithography. Appropriate cell types such as human endothelial cells (ECs), pericytes (PCs) and astrocytes (ACs) were embedded in a fibrin hydrogel and loaded inside the [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/%22%20%EF%B7%9FHYPERLINK%20%22https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) (Figure 1).
As a result of cell self-organization, microvascular networks (MVNs) were formed after few days of culture within the chips.
*Figure 1 Protocol steps for the formation of BBB model on chip*
*Figure 2 Assessment of microvascular networks permeability through collection and analysis of interstitial fluid after intravascular pressurization with Flow EZ pressure controllers*
In addition, the authors develop an approach to precisely collect interstitial fluid for direct analysis of labeled and unlabeled molecules. They used[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)[Fluigent Flow-EZ pressure controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) to perfuse their Brain Blood Barrier model by imposing a pressure of 1kPa and further collected interstitial fluid (Figure 2). This controlled fluid perfusion and collection enable to analyze molecules present in this fluid with methods such as ELISA or mass spectrometry.
These two methods (interstitial fluid collection following vascular pressurization and fluorescence imaging by confocal microscopy) can be combined to measure effective blood-brain barrier permeability values under physiological transmural flow conditions.
This robust and flexible method could be applied to numerous applications. Analyzing the BBB permeability to nanoparticles for instance or the susceptibility to infectious agents such as SARS-CoV-2 would be of great interest.
## Results
Compared with standard 2D assays**, this BBB model features relevant cellular organization and morphological characteristics**, as well as values of molecular permeability within the range expected *in vivo*. After several days of culture, highly interconnected structures are formed (Figure 3) with vascular diameters in the range of 10–40 µm (slightly larger than those of human BBB capillaries *in vivo*).
They can be perfused with solutes which make it a highly physiologically relevant permeability model microcirculation. Importantly**, the application of physiological levels of fluid flow using a** [**microfluidic pump**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/) was previously shown to induce **lower permeabilities** and resulted in **prolonged model stability** (Gs, O. et al. Microheart: a microfluidic pump for functional vascular culture in microphysiological systems. *J. Biomech*. **119**, 2021).
*Figure 3 Confocal images of microvascular networks formed in the human BBB model on chip Staining of endothelial cells CD31 cell nuclei DAPI polymerized actin F actin and pericytes PDGFR β shows the formation of interconnected vessel like structures*
Microvascular networks formed inside the Blood Brain Barrier-on-chip can be collected from the gel to be analyzed. Cell types such as endothelial cells can be isolated with a cell sorter to quantify their gene and protein expression levels. The results show that under appropriate [culture](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) conditions with BBB-specific perivascular cells (pericytes and astrocytes), human ECs (ECs from induced pluripotent stem cells = iPS-ECs) adopt gene expression profiles that closely match those of human primary brain ECs.
In addition, the assessment of the permeability of various molecules as well as the analyses of circulating cytokines secreted in the BBB-on-chip (via Luminex analysis of the medium perfused) provides a simple and physiologically accurate **platform to study correlations between cytokine signaling and transporter gene/protein expression**.
Furthermore, the relevance of this protocol in designing patient-specific Blood Brain Barrier microvascular networks may have potential applications in the clinic.
## Conclusion
*Hajal et al*. have established a **BBB permeability model-on-chip** in which interconnected microvascular networks are formed and that recapitulate key aspects of **the natural Blood Brain Barrier**. In their protocol, published in the prestigious Nature Protocols journal, our accurate and versatile flow control instrument **–** [**Flow-EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) – provides complete control of media perfusion and collection necessary for the analysis of perfusates. The BBB-model-on-chip represents a suitable system for widespread use in academic and industrial laboratories.
[Read the article](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41596-021-00635-w)
## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions
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### White paper: Organ on Chip
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- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [
### WEBINAR – Automated fluid delivery for cell and tissue imaging
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-automated-fluid-delivery/)
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### WEBINAR: Enhancing Microfluidic Cell immunolabeling with Aria Technology
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/microfluidic-cell-immunolabeling-webinar/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Article Reviews
---
### [A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform/)
**Published:** October 17, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
**A Bioinformatics Center of AMMS (Beijiing) Paper**
Paper: Wei, H.; Rong, Z.; Liu, L.; Sang, Y.; Yang, J.; Wang, S. Streamlined and On-Demand Preparation of mRNA Products on a Universal Integrated Platform. Microsyst Nanoeng 2023, 9 (1), 97. .
## mRNA vaccines, a game-changer in vaccinology
**Traditional vaccines** are made either of a **weakened form of the virus or viral proteins**. In contrast, **mRNA vaccines** only include the instruction needed for the cell **to produce a small part of the virus**, and thus teach our immune system to recognize it.
Without any risk of gene insertion as injected mRNA are translated into proteins in the cell cytoplasm, these types of vaccines have been proven to be **long-lasting and effective with safe immune responses**.1,2
In addition, a key advantage of mRNA vaccines is their simple and rapid manufacturing compared to traditional vaccines, especially since they can be produced in a laboratory without any cell culture requirement.
Figure 1: Mechanism of mRA vaccine in the body after injection.3
## How can microfluidics help in developing mRNA vaccines?
Before protecting us from the disease, **mRNA should be protected from being destroyed in its free state** by chemicals present in our blood and enzymatic degradation during the vaccine injection. To overcome this issue, [lipid nanoparticles](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/) (LNP) are used as shields through mRNA encapsulation. This approach ensures the **circulation of mRNA** through the blood toward the targeted cell type. Nonetheless, this process **requires homogeneous size and distribution** of the lipid nanocarriers, which are key parameters in determining clinical success.
**The traditional method**, which often consists of slowly injecting the lipid solution into an aqueous phase, **lacks control over the encapsulation efficiency** and the size of the lipid nanocarriers. In contrast, **microfluidics** offers the **opportunity** to master these parameters with high reproducibility, easy automation, and a streamlined process.
In this perspective, Hongjuan Wei *et al.* developed an **automated “on-demand” mRNA preparation platform**, which contains a **module dedicated to encapsulating mRNA in lipid nanoparticles** using a microfluidic approach. This example of a universal platform could be a powerful tool in terms of rapidly generating mRNA treatment to accelerate the progress for the early research and development stage.
Figure 2 Schematic of the mRNA production process adapted in the platform
The platform included **three main components**: a **polymerase chain reaction (PCR) module** to amplify the target DNA templates, **a heating–magnet separating–mixing module** to provide a mixing platform for in vitro transcription, and **the encapsulation module** to directly encapsulate mRNA in LNPs. The performance of this platform was evaluated by starting with an **enhanced green fluorescent protein** (eGFP).
Herein, we will focus on the procedure and results for encapsulating mRNA in lipid nanoparticles through the developed module.
## A microfluidic encapsulation module for mRNA LNP
Figure 3 mRNA encapsulation module
The microfluidic encapsulation technique used in this work is based on **a staggered herringbone micromixing chip**, Fluigent’s pressure-driven controllers (**FlowEZ),** and flow sensors (**FlowUnit)**. By pressurizing two separate microfluidic reservoirs that contain the lipid vectors in ethanol and eGFP mRNA in water respectively, the fluids circulate toward the microfluidic chip.
Two FlowUnits (Range L: 0-1000 µL/min) were installed for measuring the flow during the process, and thus regulating the pressure through the FlowEZs. The design of the chip consisted of **a Y-junction**, that enabled the integration of the two fluids, followed by a **serpentine channel** where a **micromixing** occurred and enhanced through the herringbone shapes.
The obtained **mRNA-LNP** was observed by **TEM**, analyzed by **DLS**, and further evaluated by **transfection** into HEK-293T cells.
## Partial results: Stable, small, and monodisperse mRNA lipid nanocarriers
Prior to the mRNA encapsulation module, eGFP was successfully used to develop a group of workflows in the overall platform, including washing, self-testing, PCR amplification, in vitro transcription with capping, DNA digestion, poly(A) tailing, and purification.
Regulated with Fluigent’s pressure-driven controllers (FlowEZ) and flow sensors (FlowUnit), the flow rates for the lipid vectors in ethanol and for the mRNA in water were 300 μL/min and 900 μL/min respectively.
Through the staggered herringbone chip which provided an induced mixing of the two fluids, **the LNPs were formed by electrostatic interaction** when the lipid vectors dissolved in ethanol diffused and mixed with a nucleic acid solution. The hydrodynamic diameter of the produced LNPs, analyzed by DLS, revealed **an average size of 111.1 ± 2.08 nm.**
Figure 4 Size distribution of LNPs determined by DLS
Figure 5 Morphology of LNPs by TEM
In addition, **TEM images revealed the spherical shape** of the LNPs and confirmed their size, which was in accordance with the DLS analysis. These results show the possibility of **forming relatively small and stable LNPs with a low variation in diameter**.
This is helped by the constant flow regulated by the **pressure-driven controller**, which is characterized by its high **stability, responsivity, and reproducibility**, unlike [syringe pump](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/) [systems](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/).
**The transfection** of the mRNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles into HEK-293T cells showed that eGFP **was successfully expressed in the cytoplasm**, with **bright green fluorescence** visble in positive cells under the fluorescence microscope.
These results indicated the practical application of the mRNA encapsulation module for possible mRNA vaccine preparation.
Figure 6 LNP transfection in 293T cells imaged by fluorescence microscopy
## Conclusion
In this paper highlight, **Hongjuan Wei *et al****.*, from the Bioinformatics center of AMMS (Beijing), succeeded in developing a universally integrated platform with a corresponding control system for the streamlined and on-demand preparation of mRNA products. **Using our pressure-driven controllers (FlowEZ) and flow sensors (FlowUnit),** an mRNA encapsulation module based on a staggered herringbone micromixing chipwas integrated into this platform. The mRNA-loaded lipid nanoparticles created with this module were stable and monodisperse.
Their transfection into cells was successfully demonstrated. This approach bringsforth **new opportunities** in terms of rapidly developing mRNA products in a streamlined process, which may help to facilitate access to mRNA technology. For example, mRNA vaccines developed for urgent epidemic issues and personalized treatments could be rapidly generated and tested at the early research and development stage.
Also, learn how to synthesize Liposome nanoparticles using Fluigent and Secoya’s Raydrop.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis
In this application note, the Raydrop (developed and manufactured by Secoya) is used to perform Liposome Nanoparticle synthesis.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
## Related products
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### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
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### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Liposome Production Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
## Related Content
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### Microfluidics for Pharmaceutical Applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/)
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### Webinar – Microfluidics in the manufacturing of sustainable nanomedicines
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-manufacturing-sustainable-nanomedicines/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
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- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging. Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics for vaccine development Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
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## References
- (1) Kose, N.; Fox, J. M.; Sapparapu, G.; Bombardi, R.; Tennekoon, R. N.; De Silva, A. D.; Elbashir, S. M.; Theisen, M. A.; Humphris-Narayanan, E.; Ciaramella, G.; Himansu, S.; Diamond, M. S.; Crowe, J. E. A Lipid-Encapsulated mRNA Encoding a Potently Neutralizing Human Monoclonal Antibody Protects against Chikungunya Infection. *Sci. Immunol.* **2019**, *4* (35), eaaw6647. https://doi.org/10.1126/sciimmunol.aaw6647.
- (2) Alberer, M. et al. Safety and immunogenicity of a mRNA rabies vaccine in healthy adults: an open-label, non-randomised, prospective, first-in-human phase 1 clinical trial. Lancet 390, 1511–1520 (2017).
- (3) European Council Council of the European Union, https://www.consilium.europa.eu/en/infographics/covid-19-mrna-vaccine/
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Article Reviews
---
### [Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
**Published:** October 17, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Queen’s University Belfast Paper
Paper: Weaver, E.; Sommonte, F.; Hooker, A.; Denora, N.; Uddin, S.; Lamprou, D. A. Microfluidic Encapsulation of Enzymes and Steroids within Solid Lipid Nanoparticles. Drug Deliv. and Transl. Res. 2023. [https://doi.org/10.1007/s13346-023-01398-5.](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13346-023-01398-5 "https://doi.org/10.1007/s13346-023-01398-5.")
[The Lamprou lab](https://www.lamproulab.com/), affiliated with Queen’s University Belfast, specializes in three main areas: nanoparticles for imaging and therapy, lab-on-a-chip technology, and therapeutic implants. Their interdisciplinary approach has driven innovation in healthcare since 2012, developing emerging technologies and novel drug delivery devices. The lab is led by Professor Dimitrios Lamprou, a leading expert in pharmaceutical technologies known for his significant contributions to 3D printing, microfluidics, and nanofibers, with over 150 peer-reviewed publications.The Lamprou lab, in collaboration with the Department of Pharmacy‑Pharmaceutical Sciences (University of Bari Aldo Moro) and Immunocore Ltd., used microfluidics to create eco-friendly lipid-based nanocarriers for encapsulating challenging active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).
## What are the challenges for biologics and drug delivery?
**Biologics** are **complex molecules derived from living sources**, including mRNA vaccines like those used against COVID-19.1,2 **Protecting biological drugs** from **the challenges** posed by various **inhospitable internal conditions** in the body, such as proteases and pH variations, remains a difficult challenge. Since biologics are **expensive** to produce, **optimizing the formulation process is crucial** for mass production. There is therefore a growing interest in oral delivery to promote better patient compliance. One promising method is **nanoformulation**, specifically using **solid lipid nanoparticles as a barrier** for the active pharmaceutical ingredient post-administration. 3
## What makes Solid Lipid Nanoparticles effective for various drug types?
**Solid Lipid Nanoparticles** have proven their **effectiveness in delivering various types of drugs**, including chemotherapy drugs, genetic material, and anti-inflammatory medications, through their stability, targeting capabilities, and size.4
SLNs present **a special structure** with a hydrophobic core and a hydrophilic external layer, enabling them to encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic substances. The **solid core**, consisting of solid lipids like waxes and glycerides, is **responsible for containing the drugs**, particularly hydrophobic ones. On the other hand, **the surfactant layer** on the outside of an SLN **enhances stability and targeted drug delivery** and can **also contain hydrophilic drugs**. The choice of drug significantly influences the components used in lipid-based nanocarrier formulation, with cationic lipid cores and surfactants being important for mRNA and DNA delivery.5
Lipid-based nanoparticles are not limited to SLNs alone, but also include liposomes, niosomes, and exosomes, each with their own distinct properties, as summarized in Table 1.
Figure 1: Structure of an SLN capable of encapsulating an API
Nanoformulation typeFormulation materialsCapable of encapsulatingAdvantagesDisadvantagesSolid Lipid
Nanoparticles• Waxes
• Sterols
• Surfactants• Hydrophobic and
hydrophilic• Highly modifiable
• High biocompatibility, including non-toxic degradation• Require a cooling process for
solidification
• API leakage during storage
• Complications caused by
crystallisationLiposomes• Phospholipids
• Cholesterol• Hydrophobic and
hydrophilic• Highly modifiable
• Used for theranostic purposes
• Simple synthesis• Low skin permeability
• Infrequently possess low
mechanical strengthNiosomes• Non-ionic surfactants
• Cholesterol• Hydrophobic and
hydrophilic• Biocompatible and nonimmunogenic
• Improve drug permeation
through the skin
• Less stringent storage
requirements compared to liposomes• Time-consuming to create
• API leakageExosomes• Lipids
• Proteins
• Glycoconjugates• Hydrophobic and
hydrophilic
• Genetic material• Used for theranostic purposes• Complex and expensive to
artificially manufacture
*Table 1: Common lipid-based nanoformulations*
## How does microfluidics enhance SLN production for drug formulation?
**Traditional bulk production** methods for solid lipid nanoparticles, such as homogenization and microemulsification, have **multiple drawbacks** including **unpredictable particle characteristics**, **low reproducibility** and **repeatability**, and the environmentally **harmful use of solvents**.
To address these issues, **microfluidics** has emerged as a **promising approach** for lipid-based nanocarrier formulation and encapsulation of drugs.
Microfluidics has gained popularity in drug delivery due to its **precise control of flow rates**, device design, and **mixing angles within submicron channels**. These characteristics enable **control over particle size, morphology, and encapsulation efficiency**, as flow rates have a significant impact on these parameters. The microfluidic approach also improves **time efficiency**, allowing for **continuous production** within minutes, unlike traditional batch processes. As a result, microfluidics is particularly well-suited to formulations relying on self-assembly, like liposomes and SLNs, and has been employed for a wide range of APIs, including those used for gene therapy and addressing the COVID-19 pandemic.6,7,8
Figure 3 : Microfluidics, a promising approach for SLN nanoformulation.\[9\]
## Aim of the study
To further explore this area of drug encapsulation, **Edward Weaver *et al.*** from the *Lamprou Lab* aimed to **demonstrate microfluidics’ position at the forefront of solid lipid nanoparticle production in general, and for biologic SLNs specifically.**
This paper examines the compatibility of **trypsin (TRP) and testosterone (TES)** for **encapsulation in solid lipid nanoparticles using a microfluidic process** integrating [**Fluigent’s Flow EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)**.** Testosterone was chosen as a positive non-biologic lipophilic API for comparison with previous bulk encapsulation research, while trypsin was evaluated for encapsulating a hydrophilic API in lipid-based nanocarriers. **A combination of SLN materials**, including tripalmitin (Tri-P), soybean lecithin (LEC), Tween 80 (T80), and cetyl palmitate (CP) in conjunction with Pluronic F68 (P68), **was used for nanoformulation using the same experimental setup.**
## Solid Lipid Nanoparticle Production Method
**Fluigent’s[ Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ " Flow EZ")** was used to **synthesize various nanoformulations of solid lipid nanoparticles**. The microfluidic device used was a Y-shaped inlet with etched herringbone channels. The overall system was maintained at a temperature of 60°C to ensure complete dissolution of the materials.
**Eight different SLN formulations** (F1-F8) were created, with materials dissolved at 60°C to match their final concentration (Table 2). **For SLNs encapsulating APIs**, TRP and TES were used at **varying concentrations**, with TRP in the aqueous phase and TES in the organic phase. The optimal flow rate ratio was determined to be 5:1 (aqueous to organic), and samples were collected. The ethanol excess was evaporated through vortex stirring, and SLN formulations were then refrigerated at 5°C for 24 hours.
The API-loaded SLNs were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta potential, atomic force microscopy (AFM), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR).
Figure 4 In house microfluidic setup to produce SLNs at a constantly elevated temperature
Table 2 Combinations and concentrations of SLN preparatory materials
## Partial results: Stable and monodisperse SLNs for high encapsulation efficiency.
**Solid lipid nanoparticles** produced from various combinations and concentrations (F1-F8) were first **evaluated by DLS**. When comparing non-loaded SLNs to the ones with API (trypsin or testosterone), a slight increase in particle size upon encapsulation was observed. **Formulations F2 (**CP, P68) **and F8 (**Tri-P, LEC, Tween 80**) presented the most favorable particle sizes (150 -180 nm)** and were thus selected as model formulations for the study. The choice of API has a lesser impact on particle size compared to the choice of materials. In fact**, the main factor affecting particle size** appeared to be **the interaction between the waxy core material and the surfactant layer.**
Figure 6 : Particle size measurements for formulations F1–F8.
> *“However, it was also found in the current study that when using a commercially available chip and **the Fluigent system**, halving the required concentrations provided more opportune particle diameter. This factor indicates the importance of considering both the system and the microfluidic environment that is being used for formulation. ”*
**AFM results aligned with DLS analysis**, confirming the size range, although slightly enlarged due to drying. It also verified the uniform dispersion of SLNs that was achieved, **suggesting great potential for future development.**
Figure 7: AFM images obtained for F8 SLN encapsulation: (a) TRP and (b) TES
Regarding **stability studies**, all of the formulations (F1-F8) appeared to function effectively. In particular, **F2 and F8 demonstrated favorable stability characteristics, ensuring consistent and prolonged release.**
**FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the presence of TRP and TES in SLN formulations**. Specific peaks in the spectra indicated the presence of these compounds in the formulations, thus demonstrating their encapsulation within the solid lipid nanoparticles.
Figure 8: Stability for TRP and TES-loaded F2 and F8 formulations, stored at a) 5 °C and b) 37 °C
Figure 9: FTIR spectra for all components of F2 TRP showing (a) F2 TRP-encapsulated SLNs, (b) TRP, (c) CP, and (d) P68
Figure 10: FTIR spectra for all components of F8 TRP showing (a) F8 TRP-encapsulated SLNs, (b) TRP, (c) LEC, (d) T80, and (e) Tri-P
Finally, **the encapsulation efficiency (EE) and drug release with F2 and F8 formulation were evaluated**. For **testosterone**, the encapsulation efficiency **was high for both nanoformulations**, showing a slight improvement over traditionally used encapsulation methods such as emulsification and homogenisation.10,11 Moreover, **the release of TES from SLNs was around 65% for F2 and 45% for F8 within 72 hours, in agreement with the therapeutic range.**
**Regarding the encapsulation of TRP within solid lipid nanoparticles, the EE** with the F2 formulation **was 47% and showed controlled trypsin release**, making it a suitable lead formulation compared to F8 (EE: 7%). **This result is promising for future enhancement**, taking into consideration that this encapsulation had not been attempted before with microfluidics.
Figure 11: Encapsulation efficiency for F2 and F8 formulations encapsulating both TRP and TES
Figure 12: Drug release displayed as % total release from encapsulated active pharmaceutical ingredient for (a) F2 and (b) F8
## Conclusion
In this paper highlight, **E. Weaver *et al.* from the Lamprou lab** developed **a microfluidic approach for solid lipid nanoparticle production and API encapsulation**. **Fluigent’s Flow EZ was used to provide controlled and constant flow rates**, contributing to the creation of small homogeneous SLNs. **Selecting appropriate SLN materials was essential to matching specific APIs** due to their varying encapsulation capabilities. The nanoformulation which included low-concentration CP and P68 was shown to be the most promising.12 **This microfluidic method** was **both reproducible and eco-friendly, making it possible to encapsulate previously challenging molecules.**
[Read the full article](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s13346-023-01398-5)
[*Learn about mRNA encapsulation using microfluidics and Fluigent’s FlowEZ*](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform/)
## Related products
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### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
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### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
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### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
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## Related Content
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### Microfluidics for Pharmaceutical Applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/)
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### Webinar – Microfluidics in the manufacturing of sustainable nanomedicines
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## Expertises & Resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics for vaccine development Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
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## References
- (1) Anselmo AC, Gokarn Y, Mitragotri S. Non-invasive delivery strategies for biologics. Nat Rev Drug Discovery. 2019;18(1):19–40.
- (2) Schoenmaker L, et al. mRNA-lipid nanoparticle COVID-19 vaccines: structure and stability. Int Pharm. 2021;601: 120586 .
- (3) Mishra V, et al. Solid lipid nanoparticles: emerging colloidal nano drug delivery systems. Pharmaceutics. 2018;10(4):191.
- (4) Mura P, et al. Evaluation and comparison of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) and nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) as vectors to develop hydrochlorothiazide effective and safe pediatric oral liquid formulations. Pharmaceutics. 2021;13(4):437.
- (5) Sommonte F, et al. The complexity of the blood-brain barrier and the concept of age-related brain targeting: challenges and potential of novel solid lipid-based formulations. J Pharm Sci. 2022;111(3):577–92.
- (6) Jaradat E, et al. Microfluidic paclitaxel-loaded lipid nanoparticle formulations for chemotherapy. Int J Pharm. 2022;628:122320.
- (7) Jain V, et al. Microfluidic device based molecular self-assembly structures. J Mol Liq. 2022: 119760.
- (8) Roces CB, et al. Manufacturing considerations for the development of lipid nanoparticles using microfluidics. Pharmaceutics. 2020;12(11):1095
- (9) Arduino I, et al. Preparation of cetyl palmitate-based PEGylated solid lipid nanoparticles by microfluidic technique. Acta Biomater. 2021;121:566–78.
- (10) Tajbakhsh M, et al. An investigation on parameters affecting the optimization of testosterone enanthate loaded solid nanoparticles for enhanced transdermal delivery. Colloids Surf A. 2020;589:124437.
- (11) Doktorovova S, Souto EB, Silva AM. Hansen solubility parameters (HSP) for prescreening formulation of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN): in vitro testing of curcumin-loaded SLN in MCF-7 and BT-474 cell lines. Pharm Dev Technol. 2018;23(1):96–105.
- (12) Weaver, E.; Sommonte, F.; Hooker, A.; Denora, N.; Uddin, S.; Lamprou, D. A. Microfluidic Encapsulation of Enzymes and Steroids within Solid Lipid Nanoparticles. Drug Deliv. and Transl. Res. 2023.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Article Reviews
---
### [Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
**Published:** April 15, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
**Table of contents:**
1. [*How Does Microfluidics Compare with Classical Methods in Drug Delivery?* ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/#microfluidics "How Does Microfluidics Compare with Classical Methods in Drug Delivery? ")
2. [*Microfluidic Techniques to Improve Drug Carrier Synthesis* ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/#lnp "Microfluidic Techniques to Improve Drug Carrier Synthesis ")
3. [*Microfluidic Microneedle Systems for Carrier-Free Drug Delivery* ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/#microneedles "Microfluidic Microneedle Systems for Carrier-Free Drug Delivery ")
4. [*Organ-on-a-Chip: Modeling Drug Delivery in Vitro* ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/#in-vitro-models "Organ-on-a-Chip: Modeling Drug Delivery in Vitro ")
## How Does Microfluidics Compare Classical Methods in Drug Delivery?
**Traditional drug delivery methods**, including oral administration, injections, and inhalation, have long depended on conventional techniques to fabricate drug carriers such as liposomes and polymeric nanoparticles.1,2 Although these systems aim to enhance drug solubility, stability, and targeting, their fabrication processes are often complex, difficult to scale, and **limited in precision and reproducibility.** Combined with challenges like poor biodistribution and biological barriers, **these limitations reduce the effectiveness of many therapeutic agents.**3
Microfluidic technology in healthcare offers a promising shift toward **more efficient and controlled delivery systems**. Known for its ability to manipulate fluids at the microscale, microfluidics enables the precise, scalable, and reproducible production of advanced drug carriers (Figure 1).4–6
**This review** explores recent developments in precision drug delivery using microfluidics, structured into three main areas:
(a) the **fabrication of drug carriers**, including lipid-based and polymeric nanoparticles, through microfluidic platforms;
(b) the integration of microfluidics into **microneedle technologies** for minimally invasive applications;
(c) the broader applications of microfluidics in nanomedicine and drug research, such as **crystallization techniques** and the development of **in vitro platforms** for studying delivery mechanisms.
*Figure *1* Microfluidic approach for drug carrier fabrication NDDS Nano Drug Delivery Systems*
*From Zhang H et al Acta Pharmaceutica Sinica B* ***2023*** *13 8 32773299*
## How Do Microfluidic Techniques Improve Drug Delivery Particle Synthesis?
### 1- Microfluidic Techniques for Lipid Nanoparticle Synthesis:
**Lipid-based nanoparticles (LNPs)** are a promising class of drug delivery systems due to their **biocompatibility, capacity** for encapsulating diverse therapeutic agents, and ability to facilitate controlled drug release. LNPs are particularly useful for delivering hydrophobic drugs, nucleic acids, and other sensitive molecules. Here are some microfluidic techniques used in **LNP synthesis for drug delivery**:7
- **Microfluidic Hydrodynamic Focusing (MHF):**
This technique uses a **central stream of lipids** dissolved in solvent**, bordered by aqueous buffer streams**. As the lipid solution is focused into a thin flow, rapid diffusion occurs, triggering self-assembly of nanoparticles (Figure 2-A). The flow rate ratio (FRR) between streams determines the extent of focusing, allowing precise control over particle characteristics. MHF also allows simultaneous [encapsulation of hydrophilic drugs](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/) by adjusting the stream configurations.8,9
- **Chaotic Advection Mixers:**
These systems incorporate **specially designed microchannels**, such as herringbone patterns or serpentine paths, that **disrupt laminar flow and induce rapid mixing** through stretching and folding of fluid layers (Figure 2-B). This ensures that solvents and lipids mix quickly, initiating nanoparticle formation with improved uniformity. Chaotic advection combines the benefits of fast mixing with continuous-flow operation. 10–12. [Explore the full potential of liposome production ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/ "Explore the full potential of liposome production ")using this method for drug delivery.
- **Vortex Focusing:**
A hybrid of MHF and chaotic mixing, this approach uses a **conical chamber** where the **lipid solution enters axially**, and **the buffer enters tangentially** (Figure 2-C). The resulting spiral flow simultaneously focuses on the lipid stream and enhances mixing through rotational motion, enabling efficient nanoparticle formation in a single step.13,14
*Figure *2* Microfluidic lipid nanoparticle production techniques*
*From Mehraji S et al Lab Chip* ***2024*** *24 5 11541174*
**Explore more case studies of microfluidic techniques in LNP production:**
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Microfluidics Article Reviews### A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform/)
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Microfluidics Article Reviews### Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
- [
### Webinar – Microfluidics in the manufacturing of sustainable nanomedicines
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-manufacturing-sustainable-nanomedicines/)
### 2- Microfluidic Synthesis of Polymeric Nanoparticles:
Polymeric nanoparticles (PNPs) are increasingly used in drug delivery due to their **versatile structure** and the ability to encapsulate a wide range of therapeutic agents. These include hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules, nucleic acids, and proteins. Unlike lipid-based nanoparticles, which are primarily lipid-based self-assemblies, PNPs are composed of **polymeric materials** such as poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA), polycaprolactone (PCL), and other **biodegradable or biocompatible polymers**. These polymers can form either matrix-type nanospheres or core-shell nanocapsules, providing flexibility in encapsulating different bioactive substances.9,15
The microfluidic synthesis of PNPs shares **similarities with LNP production in the areas of** precise control over particle size, size distribution, and encapsulation efficiency (Figure 3). Techniques for PNP synthesis include hydrodynamic focusing, nanoprecipitation, and coaxial flow systems, all of which are also employed in LNP synthesis. The **primary difference** lies in the **material composition** and the **solvent systems** used. 2,5,15,16
*Figure *3* Polymeric nanoparticles for drug delivery*
*From Begines B et al Nanomaterials* ***2020*** *10 7 1403*
[🔗 Learn more in our application note on PLGA nanoparticle synthesis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
### 3- Microfluidic Production of Droplet-Based Microparticles
Microparticles made from biopolymers are emerging as important platforms for sustained drug delivery, cell therapy, and biomedical implants. Traditional batch production methods often suffer from poor size control and low reproducibility. Microfluidics enables the generation of uniform microparticles with precisely engineered properties, ensuring high-quality drug delivery systems.
This technique involves the **generation of droplets** within microchannels, where **polymer solutions are encapsulated** in immiscible carrier fluids. These droplets are then **solidified** through processes such as crosslinking, solvent evaporation, or polymerization. The geometry of the microchannels and the flow conditions can be finely tuned to control droplet size and formation frequency.5,9,17–19
These **methods** offer **precision**, **reproducibility**, and **compatibility** with various drug types and materials, making them an attractive choice for next-generation therapeutic systems.
*Figure *4* PLGA Microbeads encapsulating lysozyme Produced by Secoya Technologies*
*Table *1*: Examples of drug encapsulation using microfluidics (Adapted from Parra Saldivar et al.; Front Biosci* ***2018****, 10 (1), 74–91).*
**Material Used** **Geometry** **Carrier Material** **Drug** **Application** **Ref**.GlassCo-flowHuman serum albumin, poly(lactic acid) DoxorubicinHepatic cancer 20PEEK and silica tubeT-junction Poly(methyl acrylate), poly(acrylamide) Ketoprofen, ranitidine Suppression of gastric irritation effects 21SiliconFlow focusing PLGA Ciclosporin Immunosuppressive therapy 22PDMSCo-flow with herringbone shape Liposomes Propofol Anesthetic agent 23Quartz ChipFlow-focusing Hyaluronic acid, ethylenediamine Dexamethasone Cell differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells 24GlassCo-flow and flow-focusing Polycaprolactone, poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(ethylene glycol) Bovine serum albumin Protein therapy 25PDMST-junction Poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate 5-fluorouracil Cancer therapy 26PMMAV-junction Poly(methylsilsesquioxane) ItraconazoleAntifungal drug for infections 27
[🔗 *Discover how our pressure controller improves microfluidic precision*](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
**Explore more applications on droplet-based microfluidics:**
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Microfluidic Application Notes### 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microsphere-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
**Free content for better understanding on droplet production methods**
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
## Based Microneedle Systems for Carrier-Free Drug Delivery
Microfluidic technology enables the advancement of **carrier-free drug delivery** systems. By leveraging the precision and control provided by microfluidic platforms, drugs can be delivered directly to target sites, minimizing the need for conventional drug carriers. This results in a more efficient delivery system with better bioavailability and targeted release. Among the most promising components in this approach are **micro-needles**, which are highly integrated into microfluidic devices to optimize the delivery of therapeutics.2,28,29
**Micro-Needles **(MNs)**:** These are devices that utilize arrays of microsized-needles, small, precise structures designed to penetrate the skin or other tissues for targeted drug delivery. These microneedles enable **painless**, **minimally invasive drug administration**, bypassing the need for traditional injections and oral delivery systems. The control offered by microfluidics ensures localized and controlled release of the drug, which can enhance the bioavailability and targeted action of therapeutics, particularly those that may degrade in the digestive system.
**Types of Micro-Needles:**
1. **Solid Micro-Needles:** These are designed to create micro-channels in the skin, after which drugs can be applied topically, allowing them to diffuse passively through the skin. Solid MNs are typically made from materials such as (Silicon, Metals, Polymers).30
2. **Dissolving Micro-Needles:** Composed of biodegradable materials, these MNs dissolve upon insertion into the skin, releasing the drug directly into the targeted tissue. Materials used for dissolving MNs include (Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA), Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), Polylactic Acid (PLA)).31
3. **Hydrogel Micro-Needles:** These are made from swelling polymer materials and release drugs via the expansion of the hydrogel upon insertion into the skin. Materials for hydrogel MNs include (Polyethylene Glycol (PEG), Polyacrylamide (PAAm), Chitosan).32
4. **Hollow Micro-Needles:** These are designed with a hollow core that allows for the direct infusion of drugs into the body through the needle. Hollow MNs are typically made from materials such as (Glass, Silicon, Metals, Polymers).33,34
*Figure *5* Types of microneedles and their corresponding drug delivery mechanisms*
*From Zhang Y er al Exploration* ***2023*** *3 1 20210170*
## In Vitro Models for the Evaluation of Drug Delivery
To bridge the gap between conventional in vitro models and the complexity of human physiology, [**organ-on-a-chip (OOC) platforms** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "organ-on-a-chip (OOC) platforms ")have emerged as powerful tools in the **evaluation of drug delivery** systems. These models closely replicate the dynamic architecture and function of human tissues, offering insights into **drug transport**, **absorption**, and **therapeutic response**. As such, microfluidics in drug delivery has become an emerging technology for studying how nanocarriers interact with traverse biological barriers.35,36
Once a drug carrier enters the body, its journey to the target site is impeded by several key physiological barriers. Accurately modeling and understanding these obstacles is critical to the development of effective and safe drug delivery systems. Microfluidic OOC platforms offer a highly controlled environment where researchers can simulate and analyze these barriers in real time.
**Key biological barriers include:**
- **Blood–Brain Barrier (BBB):** This tightly regulated interface restricts the entry of most therapeutic agents into the brain. **Microfluidic BBB-on-a-chip models** co-culture endothelial cells, astrocytes, and pericytes under [controlled shear flow](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/ "controlled shear flow") to mimic the selective permeability and tight junctions characteristic of the [human BBB](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/ "human BBB"). These systems are vital for evaluating brain-targeted drug delivery systems. 37
- **Mucosal Diffusion Barrier:** Present in areas such as the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and reproductive tracts, this consists of a dense mucus layer that traps and excludes foreign particles. Microfluidic models replicate mucus viscosity and secretion dynamics, allowing real-time observation of nanoparticle diffusion, penetration, and retention for oral and pulmonary drug delivery.38
- **Cellular Permeability Barrier:** Composed of epithelial or endothelial cell monolayers with tight junctions, this barrier controls both transcellular and paracellular transport. On-chip systems can simulate cellular architecture and mechanical stimuli, enabling studies of nanoparticle uptake, receptor-mediated transport, and barrier integrity modulation.39
- **Biochemical Barrier:** Enzymes and pH variations, particularly in the gut and lysosomal environments, can degrade or inactivate drugs before they reach their target. Microfluidic biochemical models simulate these conditions to test the stability and protective efficacy of nanocarriers under physiologically relevant stresses.2
The integration of these barriers into microfluidic organ-on-a-chip platforms enables more predictive and human-relevant preclinical evaluation.
Devices such as, ([gut-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/ "Gut-on-a-chip"), vessel-on-a-chip, [blood–brain barrier-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/ "blood–brain barrier-on-a-chip") have demonstrated the potential of precision drug delivery using microfluidics.
As **microfluidics in drug delivery** continues to evolve, these platforms can be used in nanomedicine for evaluating pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and therapeutic index in a more human-relevant manner with reduced dependence on animal models.
*Figure *6* Creation of an endothelium epithelium barrier for air liquid interface cell culture in 2D or 3D*
*From BeOnChip*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
An example in **[ocular drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/monitoring-ocular-drug-delivery/ "ocular drug delivery")** involves the application of microfluidic systems to replicate dynamic intraocular environments. By integrating flow control and temperature regulation, these platforms allow for the **simulation of physiological conditions**, such as **intraocular pressure fluctuations and eye motion**. This enables precise assessment of how these variables affect drug clearance and retention. The combination of automated sensing and synchronized flow across multiple in vitro models improves reproducibility and throughput in formulation screening, supporting more predictive and scalable testing for intraocular drug delivery.40
[Read the full case study on platform for ocular drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/monitoring-ocular-drug-delivery/)
*Figure *7* In vitro microfluidic monitoring platform for ocular drug delivery*
*Awwad S el al Pharmaceutics* ***2023*** *15 5 1444*
## Microfluidics for Drug and Protein Crystallization in Pharmaceutical Research
Microfluidic systems are also transforming **protein crystallization**, a key process in drug development. Traditionally requiring large sample volumes, microfluidic platforms allow for the screening of crystallization conditions with **minimal amounts of protein and reagents**. By simulating various conditions like pH, temperature, and salt concentrations, these devices enable faster, more efficient crystallization.
Recent innovations, such as centrifuge-based microfluidic devices and semi-contact dispensing methods, have enhanced high-throughput screening and precision, reducing costs and accelerating drug development. This advancement plays a crucial role in **creating high-quality protein crystals** for structural analysis, aiding in more targeted drug delivery.41–43
- [
### An all-in-one platform for continuous generation of UV-cured core-shell microcapsules
Read More](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
- [
### Webinar: Controlled UV-crosslinked microcapsule production using microfluidic technology
Read More](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production/)
*Figure *8*: (Left)Schematic representation of an example of crystallization process from initial droplets. (Right) Lysozymes crystals inside microcapsules*
*(From Mettler, M. et al.; Chem. Commun.* ***59****, 12739–12742 (2023)).*
## Conclusion
In this review, we highlighted the **advancements in drug delivery systems** enabled by microfluidics, which enhance bioavailability, drug efficiency, and nanoparticle performance. Despite progress, challenges remain in scaling these systems for clinical use, with the need for improved parallelization and simplified fabrication. Integrating microfluidics with organ-on-a-chip technology offers promising solutions for more accurate preclinical testing and personalized medicine. With continued interdisciplinary collaboration, **microfluidics has the potential to transform further drug delivery** and therapeutic applications.
👉 Ready to improve your drug delivery workflows? Contact our experts or explore our microfluidic pressure control systems.
[Contact an expert](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[
### UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
## Expertises and resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Drug-Loaded Liposome Preparation Using Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Real-Time Monitoring Platform for Ocular Drug Delivery, Integrating Fluigent’s Flow EZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/monitoring-ocular-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microsphere-production/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Human Blood Brain Barrier (BBB) permeability -on-chip assessment Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References
1\. Park, K. Controlled drug delivery systems: Past forward and future back. *J. Controlled Release* **190**, 3–8 (2014).
2\. Ma, Z., Li, B., Peng, J. & Gao, D. Recent Development of Drug Delivery Systems through Microfluidics: From Synthesis to Evaluation. *Pharmaceutics* **14**, 434 (2022).
3\. Li, C. *et al.* Recent progress in drug delivery. *Acta Pharm. Sin. B* **9**, 1145–1162 (2019).
4\. Jaradat, E., Weaver, E., Meziane, A. & Lamprou, D. A. Microfluidics Technology for the Design and Formulation of Nanomedicines. *Nanomaterials* **11**, 3440 (2021).
5\. Parra Saldivar, R. Microfluidics technology for drug delivery A review. *Front. Biosci.* **10**, 74–91 (2018).
6\. Zhang, H. *et al.* Microfluidics for nano-drug delivery systems: From fundamentals to industrialization. *Acta Pharm. Sin. B* **13**, 3277–3299 (2023).
7\. Mehraji, S. & DeVoe, D. L. Microfluidic synthesis of lipid-based nanoparticles for drug delivery: recent advances and opportunities. *Lab. Chip* **24**, 1154–1174 (2024).
8\. Jahn, A., Vreeland, W. N., Gaitan, M. & Locascio, L. E. Controlled Vesicle Self-Assembly in Microfluidic Channels with Hydrodynamic Focusing. *J. Am. Chem. Soc.* **126**, 2674–2675 (2004).
9\. Jahn, A. *et al.* Preparation of nanoparticles by continuous-flow microfluidics. *J. Nanoparticle Res.* **10**, 925–934 (2008).
10\. Suh, Y. K. & Kang, S. A Review on Mixing in Microfluidics. *Micromachines* **1**, 82–111 (2010).
11\. Nguyen, N.-T. & Wu, Z. Micromixers—a review. *J. Micromechanics Microengineering* **15**, R1–R16 (2005).
12\. Saorin, A. *et al.* Microfluidic production of amiodarone loaded nanoparticles and application in drug repositioning in ovarian cancer. *Sci. Rep.* **14**, 6280 (2024).
13\. Markwalter, C. E. & Prud’homme, R. K. Design of a Small-Scale Multi-Inlet Vortex Mixer for Scalable Nanoparticle Production and Application to the Encapsulation of Biologics by Inverse Flash NanoPrecipitation. *J. Pharm. Sci.* **107**, 2465–2471 (2018).
14\. Liu, Y., Cheng, C., Liu, Y., Prud’homme, R. K. & Fox, R. O. Mixing in a multi-inlet vortex mixer (MIVM) for flash nano-precipitation. *Chem. Eng. Sci.* **63**, 2829–2842 (2008).
15\. Leung, M. H. M. & Shen, A. Q. Microfluidic Assisted Nanoprecipitation of PLGA Nanoparticles for Curcumin Delivery to Leukemia Jurkat Cells. *Langmuir* **34**, 3961–3970 (2018).
16\. Begines, B. *et al.* Polymeric Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery: Recent Developments and Future Prospects. *Nanomaterials* **10**, 1403 (2020).
17\. Onan, D. *et al.* Microfluidics Based Particle and Droplet Generation for Gene and Drug Delivery Approaches. *J. Biomed. Mater. Res. B Appl. Biomater.* **113**, e35530 (2025).
18\. Hallan, S. S., Kaur, P., Kaur, V., Mishra, N. & Vaidya, B. Lipid polymer hybrid as emerging tool in nanocarriers for oral drug delivery. *Artif. Cells Nanomedicine Biotechnol.* **44**, 334–349 (2016).
19\. Mukherjee, A. *et al.* Lipid–polymer hybrid nanoparticles as a next-generation drug delivery platform: state of the art, emerging technologies, and perspectives. *Int. J. Nanomedicine* **Volume 14**, 1937–1952 (2019).
20\. Kim, M.-K., Kim, M. A., Jenjob, R., Lee, D.-H. & Yang, S.-G. Capillary microfluidics-derived doxorubicin-containing human serum albumin microbeads for transarterial chemoembolization of hepatic cancer. *Mater. Sci. Eng. C* **62**, 391–397 (2016).
21\. Khan, I. U. *et al.* Microfluidic conceived pH sensitive core–shell particles for dual drug delivery. *Int. J. Pharm.* **478**, 78–87 (2015).
22\. Keohane, K., Brennan, D., Galvin, P. & Griffin, B. T. Silicon microfluidic flow focusing devices for the production of size-controlled PLGA based drug loaded microparticles. *Int. J. Pharm.* **467**, 60–69 (2014).
23\. Kastner, E., Verma, V., Lowry, D. & Perrie, Y. Microfluidic-controlled manufacture of liposomes for the solubilisation of a poorly water soluble drug. *Int. J. Pharm.* **485**, 122–130 (2015).
24\. Agnello, S. *et al.* Microfluidic production of hyaluronic acid derivative microfibers to control drug release. *Mater. Lett.* **182**, 309–313 (2016).
25\. Pessi, J. *et al.* Microfluidics-assisted engineering of polymeric microcapsules with high encapsulation efficiency for protein drug delivery. *Int. J. Pharm.* **472**, 82–87 (2014).
26\. Xue, P., Wu, Y., Menon, N. V. & Kang, Y. Microfluidic synthesis of monodisperse PEGDA microbeads for sustained release of 5-fluorouracil. *Microfluid. Nanofluidics* **18**, 333–342 (2015).
27\. Kucuk, I., Ahmad, Z., Edirisinghe, M. & Orlu-Gul, M. Utilization of microfluidic V-junction device to prepare surface itraconazole adsorbed nanospheres. *Int. J. Pharm.* **472**, 339–346 (2014).
28\. Riahi, R. *et al.* Microfluidics for advanced drug delivery systems. *Curr. Opin. Chem. Eng.* **7**, 101–112 (2015).
29\. Bilal, M. *et al.* Microneedles in Smart Drug Delivery. *Adv. Wound Care* **10**, 204–219 (2021).
30\. Pradeep Narayanan, S. & Raghavan, S. Solid silicon microneedles for drug delivery applications. *Int. J. Adv. Manuf. Technol.* **93**, 407–422 (2017).
31\. Ahmad, N. N., Ghazali, N. N. N. & Wong, Y. H. Concept Design of Transdermal Microneedles for Diagnosis and Drug Delivery: A Review. *Adv. Eng. Mater.* **23**, 2100503 (2021).
32\. Chen, S. *et al.* Microneedle‐Array Patch Fabricated with Enzyme‐Free Polymeric Components Capable of On‐Demand Insulin Delivery. *Adv. Funct. Mater.* **29**, 1807369 (2019).
33\. Trautmann, A., Roth, G.-L., Nujiqi, B., Walther, T. & Hellmann, R. Towards a versatile point-of-care system combining femtosecond laser generated microfluidic channels and direct laser written microneedle arrays. *Microsyst. Nanoeng.* **5**, 6 (2019).
34\. Zhang, Y. *et al.* Microneedle system for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. *Exploration* **3**, 20210170 (2023).
35\. Bhatia, S. N. & Ingber, D. E. Microfluidic organs-on-chips. *Nat. Biotechnol.* **32**, 760–772 (2014).
36\. Van Der Helm, M. W. *et al.* Direct quantification of transendothelial electrical resistance in organs-on-chips. *Biosens. Bioelectron.* **85**, 924–929 (2016).
37\. Begley, D. J. Delivery of therapeutic agents to the central nervous system: the problems and the possibilities. *Pharmacol. Ther.* **104**, 29–45 (2004).
38\. Jia, Z., Guo, Z., Yang, C.-T., Prestidge, C. & Thierry, B. “Mucus-on-Chip”: A new tool to study the dynamic penetration of nanoparticulate drug carriers into mucus. *Int. J. Pharm.* **598**, 120391 (2021).
39\. Waheed, S. *et al.* Engineering nano-drug biointerface to overcome biological barriers toward precision drug delivery. *J. Nanobiotechnology* **20**, 395 (2022).
40\. Awwad, S. *et al.* Real-Time Monitoring Platform for Ocular Drug Delivery. *Pharmaceutics* **15**, 1444 (2023).
41\. Mettler, M., Dewandre, A., Tumanov, N., Wouters, J. & Septavaux, J. Single crystal formation in core–shell capsules. *Chem. Commun.* **59**, 12739–12742 (2023).
42\. Wang, L. *et al.* A centrifugal microfluidic device for screening protein crystallization conditions by vapor diffusion. *Sens. Actuators B Chem.* **219**, 105–111 (2015).
43\. Zhu, Y. *et al.* Nanoliter-Scale Protein Crystallization and Screening with a Microfluidic Droplet Robot. *Sci. Rep.* **4**, 5046 (2014).
**Catégories de ressource:** Droplet & Particle Generation
---
### [Agarose Microcapsules Synthesis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/)
**Published:** October 13, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction
Microcapsules are becoming commonly used drug delivery systems as they can be easily administered and can be engineered with different structures and functions for keeping drug stability, delivering drugs to a desired location, and releasing drugs at a predetermined rate in a well-controlled manner \[3\].
[Droplet-based microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/ "Droplet-based microfluidics") has been used as a tool for small scale single-cell or cell culture analysis, chemical synthesis as well as high-throughput screening \[4\]. Achieved by dispersions of stabilized liquids within continuous immiscible fluids, thousands of particles are generated within minutes. These can be used as microcompartments suitable for such experiments \[6\]. Gaining in usage are water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) and oil-in-water-in-oil (o/w/o) emulsions, which can be employed for applications such as drug delivery vehicles, cell carriers, barcoding of droplets, microscale sensors, and more \[5\].
For these applications, the use of agarose microcapsules is expanding due to the advantages of this polymer. Agarose is a natural polysaccharide obtained from red seaweed and in aqueous solution can form a hydro-gel at low temperatures.
Agarose microcapsules are a well-established for a variety of applications such as protein detection, DNA hybridization and as a mean to immobilize biomolecules in order to support reactions and to permit a faster molecular detection with higher sensitivity and lower reagent consumption. This makes them an ideal choice for microscaled lab-on-chip devices. More specifically, microcapsule-based microfluidic platforms enhance planned chemical or biochemical reactions, increasing the degree of interaction between the biomolecules and the functionalized surfaces \[15\].
## Agarose microcapsules production: Materials and methods
#### Materials: Reagents
Producing a double emulsion requires 3 phases: the continuous phase, shell phase and core phase. The shell phase must be immiscible with both other phases.
**Continuous phase:**
- MCT 2: MCT with 2% w/w PGPR (E576)
**Shell phase:**
- Ag1: MiliQ water with 1% w/w TWEEN 80 and 1%w/w Agarose
- Ag2: MiliQ water with 1% w/w TWEEN 80 and 2%w/w Agarose
- Ag3: MiliQ water with 1% w/w TWEEN 80 and 3%w/w Agarose
**Core phase:**
- MCT 1: MCT oil only
Figure 1 Scheme of the setup of Agarose microcapsules production
#### Materials: Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Platform for emulsions & droplets
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
### Double emulsion production method: How to synthetize agarose microcapsules?
Oil-core agarose shell emulsions are manufactured using a RayDrop 90-160-450 due to its flexibility and stability.
Agarose microcapsules production is performed in several steps:
- **Preparation:**
It’s recommended to filter all liquids to avoid clogging and to degas solutions to minimize the apparition of air bubbles inside the system.
All fluidic lines of the setup have to be sequentially filled with liquid (continuous phase, core phase and shell phase) to prime the system and ensure that it’s wet and free of air bubbles.
- **Shell Phase Simple Emulsion:**
Production of a single emulsion of the shell phase in the continuous phase, increasing the pressure until reaching a jetting mode.
- **Double Emulsion:**
Production of a double emulsion adjusting the core flow, due to the shearing of this phase with the previous phase (single emulsion droplet already formed).
- **Droplet collection:**
After gelation is complete, the microcapsules are collected on a filter/sieve, washed with excess water and resuspended in MCT oil working solution.
- **Production run:**
Oil core – hydrogel shell microcapsules are produced at gram quantities. The system was left running for at least 30 minutes to determine the long-term stability and ability to withstand clogging.
## Production of Agarose microcapsules: RESULTS
Ag1 (1% agarose solution) and Ag2 (2% agarose solution) have resulted in the successful formation of oil core–agarose shell microcapsules.
Ag3 (3% agarose solutions) did not result in stable droplet formation due to the to the high viscosity of the solution.
Premium quality agarose microcapsules were successfully obtained. Droplet formation was stable enough to enable long-term production of the oil core – agarose shell sample over the course of 180 minutes.
For a configuration with the nozzle and output capillaries (respectively 90µm and 450µm as presented in this note), adjusting the flow rates of the fluids allows for fine control of the capsule dimensions (see Figure 2). With this setup, agarose microcapsules from 215µm to 300µm are easily produced. The shell thickness of microcapsules can also be varied by changing the ratio of flow rates of the shell and core phases, as shown in Figure 3. Here core thickness varies from 80µm to 170µm.
Figure 2 Agarose microcapsules in suspension
Figure 3 Agarose microcapsules in suspension
## Conclusion
Using Fluigent’s [double emulsion production station](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "double emulsion production station") it is possible to generate agarose microcapsules over the outside diameter range of 215 and 300 µm with [standard RayDrop configuration ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/ "standard RayDrop configuration ") (Nozzle of 90µm and outlet capillary 150µm) using agarose solution at 1% in water. Other concentrations of agarose such as 2%, which is widely used in biological applications, have also been successfully tested by following the same process.
This demonstrates that the [RayDrop double emulsion](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "RayDrop double emulsion") and [Fluigent liquid control technology](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/ "Fluigent liquid control technology") can be successfully used together to produce double emulsions. The ability to produce highly monodisperse agarose microcapsules has also been demonstrated.
Variation of the continuous phase flow does not produce a significant change in droplet formation rate or size – this further adds to the stability of the system. Long-term production of agarose microcapsules (over 180 minutes) was successfully undertaken.
The droplet size variation can be successfully controlled by altering the flow rates of the droplet phases and/or the size of the Raydrop chips. This also shows that core-shell ratio can be successfully adjusted by altering the relative flow rates of core and shell phases.
This confirms that the Raydrop™, in combination with Fluigent pumping technology, are one of the most competitive double emulsion systems available due to the flexibility (changing capillary size can be easily done to target different droplet sizes), the ease of use, the breadth of accessible chemical systems, the long-term performance stability and the lack of coatings (e.g. sigma coat)
## Expertises and resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microsphere-production/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Using dSurf for High Throughput Laser-Induced Fluorescence Droplet Micro-Thermometry (LuMIn) Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/droplet-micro-thermometry-lumin/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
## References
1\. Bae, Y., & Park, K. (2011). Targeted drug delivery to tumors: Myths, reality and possibility. Journal Of Controlled Release, 153(3), 198-205. doi: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2011.06.001
2\. Delcea, M., Möhwald, H., & Skirtach, A. (2011). Stimuli-responsive LbL capsules and nanoshells for drug delivery. Advanced Drug Delivery Reviews, 63(9), 730-747. doi: 10.1016/j.addr.2011.03.010.
3\. Ma, Z., Li, B., Peng, J., & Gao, D. (2022). Recent Development of Drug Delivery Systems through Microfluidics: From Synthesis to Evaluation. Pharmaceutics, 14(2), 434. doi: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14020434U.
4\. Khan, I., Serra, C., Anton, N., & Vandamme, T. (2014). Production of nanoparticle drug delivery systems with microfluidics tools. Expert Opinion On Drug Delivery, 12(4), 547-562. doi: 10.1517/17425247.2015.974547
5\. He, F., Zhang, M., Wang, W., Cai, Q., Su, Y., & Liu, Z. et al. (2019). Designable Polymeric Microparticles from Droplet Microfluidics for Controlled Drug Release. Advanced Materials Technologies, 4(6), 1800687. doi: 10.1002/admt.201800687
6\. De La Vega, J., Elischer, P., Schneider, T., & Häfeli, U. (2013). Uniform polymer microspheres: monodispersity criteria, methods of formation and applications. Nanomedicine, 8(2), 265-285. doi: 10.2217/nnm.12.210.
7\. Guo, J., Hou, L., Hou, J., Yu, J., & Hu, Q. (2020). Generation of Ultra-Thin-Shell Microcapsules Using Osmolarity-Controlled Swelling Method. Micromachines, 11(4), 444. doi: 10.3390/mi11040444
8\. Mou, C., Wang, W., Li, Z., Ju, X., Xie, R., & Deng, N. et al. (2018). Trojan-Horse-Like Stimuli-Responsive Microcapsules. Advanced Science, 5(6), 1700960. doi: 10.1002/advs.201700960
9\. Zhang, M., Zhang, P., Qiu, L., Chen, T., Wang, W., & Chu, L. (2020). Controllable microfluidic fabrication of microstructured functional materials. Biomicrofluidics, 14(6), 061501. doi: 10.1063/5.0027907
10\. Chong, D., Liu, X., Ma, H., Huang, G., Han, Y., & Cui, X. et al. (2015). Advances in fabricating double-emulsion droplets and their biomedical applications. Microfluidics And Nanofluidics, 19(5), 1071-1090. doi: 10.1007/s10404-015-1635-8
11\. Kim, S., Kim, J., Cho, J., & Weitz, D. (2011). Double-emulsion drops with ultra-thin shells for capsule templates. Lab Chip, 11(18), 3162-3166. doi: 10.1039/c1lc20434c
12\. Vurchio, F., Ursi, P., Buzzin, A., Veroli, A., Scorza, A., & Verotti, M. et al. (2019). Grasping and Releasing Agarose micro-Beads in Water Drops. Micromachines, 10(7), 436. doi: 10.3390/mi10070436
13\. Thompson, J., & Bau, H. (2010). Microfluidic, bead-based assay: Theory and experiments. Journal Of Chromatography B, 878(2), 228-236. doi: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2009.08.050
14\. Pinto, I., Caneira, C., Soares, R., Madaboosi, N., Aires-Barros, M., & Conde, J. et al. (2017). The application of microbeads to microfluidic systems for enhanced detection and purification of biomolecules. Methods, 116, 112-124. doi: 10.1016/j.ymeth.2016.12.005
15\. Du, N., Chou, J., Kulla, E., Floriano, P., Christodoulides, N., & McDevitt, J. (2011). A disposable bio-nano-chip using agarose beads for high performance immunoassays. Biosensors And Bioelectronics, 28(1), 251-256. doi: 10.1016/j.bios.2011.07.027
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microfluidic 3D Printing for High-Resolution Multimaterial Fabrication](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidic-3d-printing/)
**Published:** April 10, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Paper from Fluigent and the LAAS – CNRS Group
Paper: Fournié, V.; Venzac, B.; Trevisiol, E.; Foncy, J.; Roul, J.; Assie-Souleille, S.; Escudero, M.; Joseph, P.; Reitz, A.; Malaquin, L. A Microfluidics-Assisted Photopolymerization Method for High-Resolution Multimaterial 3D Printing. *Additive Manufacturing* **2023**, *72*, 103629.
This study is the result of a collaboration between the [Toulouse Biotechnology Institute](https://www.toulouse-biotechnology-institute.fr/), the [RESTORE Research Center](http://restore-lab.fr/en/home-en/) from the [University of Toulouse](https://www.univ-tlse3.fr/), the [Research laboratory specialized in system analysis and architecture (LAAS](https://www.laas.fr/en/)) from [CNRS](https://www.cnrs.fr/fr) and [Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/company/about-us/). The LAAS develops methodologies for modeling and controlling complex systems. The lab conducts research in biological, micro/nano, and autonomous technologies, driving innovation in healthcare and sustainability. As one of the first “Carnot Institutes” in 2006, the LAAS fosters strong industry collaborations to advance biological research.
“Establishing our 3D flow-printing platform required fine-tuned flow control and precise synchronization. We wouldn’t have achieved this without the critical support of the Fluigent R&D engineers. Their hands-on involvement helped us improve the reliability and responsiveness of flow modulation. We encountered challenges in stability and reproducibility, but their input led to smart adjustments that made a real difference. From firmware updates to hardware tweaks, their team was reactive and committed. The collaboration extended beyond standard support—it was true co-development. Working closely with Fluigent gave us confidence in our experimental pipeline. We are sincerely thankful for this fruitful and dynamic partnership.”
**Dr. Laurent Malaquin, CNRS – LAAS, Research Director**
## Advantages and Limitations of 3D Printing
3D printing has emerged as a promising technology for fabricating complex biological structures, enabling the precise deposition of biocompatible materials, cells, and hydrogels to create functional tissue models.1,2 Achieving **high spatial resolution**, on the order of tens of micrometers, while **integrating multiple materials** within a **single construct** is essential for developing physiologically relevant models.3,4 Conventional techniques such as micro-extrusion and inkjet printing facilitate multimaterial deposition but are inherently limited in resolution due to nozzle size and droplet formation constraints (Figure 1).5–7 Laser-assisted methods offer higher resolution but are typically restricted to single-material environments, limiting their applicability for heterogeneous structures.8,9 Photolithographic approaches, capable of sub-micrometer resolution, have garnered significant interest due to their ability to decouple material transport from structuring, allowing for highly controlled fabrication.10 However, **traditional stereolithography** (SLA) systems are **predominantly designed for non-biological applications** and offer **limited multimaterial capabilities**.11
*Figure *1* Advantages and limits of classically used 3D bioprinting technologies From Kim J J et al Virtual and Physical Prototyping 191*6**
## How Microfluidics Improves 3D Printing
While 3D printing has advanced microfluidic chip prototyping, **microfluidics can enhance 3D printing** by enabling **precise material delivery, fluid handling, and multimaterial integration**. The ability to control material flow at the micro-scale allows for the simultaneous use of multiple materials with varying properties, offering increased flexibility in creating complex structures.12 **This flexibility in material selection** is particularly **valuable for designing intricate 3D objects** with diverse characteristics, such as varying stiffness, biocompatibility, and mechanical strength, within a single printed structure (Table 1).13 Despite challenges such as high flow rates, geometric constraints, material recovery, and contamination, **[microfluidic systems can improve the precision](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/ "microfluidic systems can improve the precision"), efficiency, and versatility of 3D bioprinting**, offering potential for advanced applications in complex biological structures.14,15
*Table *1*: Comparison of properties of bioinks for 3D bioprinting technique. (Adapted from Park, W. et al; IJMS* ***2021****, 22 (15), 7837).*13**
SourceBioink TypeMechanical Property Cytocompatibility Printability Natural Polymer Collagen Weak, <1 kPa elastic moduli Cell favorable Poor printability GelatinWeak and unstable Cell favorable 340-450 µm FibrinWeak, ̴50 Pa Cell favorable Poor printability Silk Fibroin Strong, ̴ 25 kPa tensile strength Non-cytotoxic, Weak cell adhesive 280-320 µm AlginateTunable, varied with molecular weight and Ca2+ contents Non-cytotoxic, Weak cell adhesive Poor printability AgaroseFragile, 3-15 kPA compressive strength Non-cytotoxic, Weak cell adhesive >500 µm Synthetic Polymer Poly(ethylene glycol) Tunable Non-cytotoxic, Weak cell adhesive >200 µm Pluronic F127 Soft and weak Cytotoxic̴ 150 µm ## Aim of the Study
This case study introduces the **3D-FlowPrint concep**t, a novel printhead design that uses **hydrodynamic confinement** for efficient microfluidic injections. The system features **both aspiration and injection capabilities** with adjustable pressures, **minimizing contamination risk** by recovering excess material. Inspired by the microfluidic probe concept, this microfluidic 3D printing approach allows injection of viscous materials and operation at distances over 500 μm from the substrate.
A key innovation is **the integration of an optical fiber for in-situ photopolymerizatio**n during material injection, a first for hydrogels. This combination of open microfluidics and integrated optics enables precise control over material composition and multiscale 3D object fabrication.
*Figure *2* Illustration of the microfluidic 3D printer 3D FlowPrint*
## Methodology: Use of Microfluidics for 3D Printing
The 3D-printed microfluidic printhead integrates **a conical design** with precision-engineered channels for material **injection, aspiration, and optical fiber placement**. Fabricated using SLA 3D printing with high-resolution DL260 composite photosensitive resin, the printhead achieves precise microfluidic control and optical integration. The assembled system includes borosilicate glass sealing, PDMS coating for non-adhesive properties, and a ball-lensed optical fiber optimized for photopolymerization. Laser control is achieved using a 405-nm monomodal laser with adjustable power modulation, ensuring precise polymerization. A function generator fine-tunes beam intensity, while fiber positioning adjusts resolution, enabling high-precision or broader polymerization control.
*Figure *3* A Design of the printhead B Top view and cross cut image of the printhead structures values in µm C Image of the printing head*
**Fluigent’s microfluidic components** ensured **[precise fluid control](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)** in this microfluidic 3D printing technique. A **M-Switch valve s**elected solutions, while **Flow-EZ and Push-Pull controllers** **regulated injection and aspiration pressures.** Flowrate sensors enabled **real-time feedback**, maintaining hydrodynamic confinement and preventing cross-contamination by dynamically adjusting flowrates based on printing speed, viscosity, and Zgap. The entire setup is automated through a custom LabVIEW interface, synchronizing fluidic, optical, and mechanical components for seamless operation.
*Figure *4* Schematic representation of the microfluidic 3D printer From Fournié V et al Additive Manufacturing* ***2023*** *72 103629*1**
*Figure *5* Image of the microfluidic 3D printer*
To validate biological applications, PC3-GFP prostate cancer cells and hASC spheroids were cultured and integrated into polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEGDA) structures. Cell viability, adhesion, and spatial organization were assessed using fluorescence staining and microscopy, confirming the system’s potential for bio-fabrication and tissue engineering applications.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
[
### Lab Integration Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Proof-of-Concept: High-Precision 3D Printing with Microfluidic-Assisted Photopolymerization
Microfluidic 3D printing combined **flow control and photopolymerization** to generate **highly precise 3D structures.** A printhead, similar to microfluidic probes, injected and confined materials onto a substrate, preventing cross-contamination and allowing for multiple materials to be printed (Figure 5). **PEGDA** hydrogels were successfully **used, solidified by a light-sensitive chemica**l (LAP photo-initiator) and a focused 405 nm laser, enabling **micron-level precision** that classical methods couldn’t match.
*Figure 6 Schematic representation of the multimaterial printing process1*
### *Hydrodynamic Flow Confinement*
Controlling **material flow** is key to **preventing contamination**, especially with multimaterial printing. The printhead featured a small gap between it and the substrate, creating hydrodynamic resistance to direct material toward the aspiration channel. A tapered channel and peripheral ridge ensured the injected material stayed contained. CFD simulations and experiments confirmed that this design effectively controlled the material flow, achieving **high-resolution prints without contamination** (Figure 6).
*Figure 7 A Experimental analysis showing the simultaneous injection and aspiration of a suspension of fluorescent particles B Comsol simulations performed according to experimental parameters C3D flow distribution obtained from Comsol simulations*1**
### *Layer Thickness Control*
Layer thickness control in the 3D-FlowPrint is controlled by **the Zgap**, defined as the confinement between the PDMS window and the substrate. Experimental validation showed that structures printed at different Zgap values **(60–350 μm)** maintained consistent lateral dimensions (~30 μm), indicating minimal light spread (Figure 7). Confocal imaging revealed a 16% shrinkage along the Z-axis, with slight slopes at line edges. The low absorbance of PEGDA-based hydrogels (≤0.01 m⁻¹) ensured uniform polymerization, allowing for **precise layer formation**.
*Figure *8* Confocal pictures of a ladder structure with segments printed at varying heights*1**
### *Multimaterial Printing Capabilities*
Microfluidic 3D printing allows **real-time switching between materials**, creating complex structures without cross-contamination. For example, PEGDA solutions with fluorescent nanoparticles produced clear, sharp features. Controlled flushing and gentle flow ensured material separation, enabling the fabrication of **complex multimaterial structures** with minimal stress (Figure 8).
*Figure 9 Example of multimaterial printing with successive segments of PEGDA solutions with 300 nm mCherry particles for red 200 nm GFP particles for green*1**
### *Cell Patterning and Spheroid Engineering*
The experiments done with the microfluidic 3D printer demonstrated **precise cell patterning with non-adherent PEGDA structures**. PC3-GFP cells were seeded onto printed arrays, including lines, grids, and converging lines. No cell adhesion occurred on the PEGDA patterns. By day 3, **cell proliferation** resulted in confluence (Figure 9). This technique also allowed for **spatial control** of human ASC spheroid migration using PEGDA patterns with guiding channels of varying widths (100–200 μm). After 3 days, spheroid sprouting was restricted to the adhesive regions, demonstrating the system’s ability to control cell behavior. These results suggest the **potential of microfluidic 3D printing** for studying confined migration, cancer invasion, and for applications in **tissue engineering**.
*Figure *1*0 Microscopic images of PC3 cell patterning on PEGDA patterns after 3 days of culture*1** ## Conclusion
In this study, researchers from Fluigent and the LAAS-CNRS **developed a microfluidic 3D printing** method that combines photopolymerization with [microfluidic flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/ "microfluidic flow control") to create high-resolution, multimaterial structures. By preventing cross-contamination, this approach enables **precise material delivery directly** onto the substrate. The optimized printhead design, validated through simulations and experiments, ensures **effective material confinement**, allowing for **precise, high-resolution fabrication**. The system’s versatility was demonstrated through the successful creation of complex structures, including those for cell culture applications. Future advancements should focus on expanding the range of printable biomaterials, particularly for 3D bioprinting, to support tissue engineering and other biomedical applications.
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/push-pull/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Lab Integration Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
## Expertises and resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Microfluidic Transistor for Precise Fluid Control Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidic-transistor-precise-fluid-control/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Resistance Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/)
## References
1\. Fournié, V. *et al.* A microfluidics-assisted photopolymerization method for high-resolution multimaterial 3D printing. *Addit. Manuf.* **72**, 103629 (2023).
2\. Daly, A. C., Prendergast, M. E., Hughes, A. J. & Burdick, J. A. Bioprinting for the Biologist. *Cell* **184**, 18–32 (2021).
3\. Ozbolat, I. T. & Hospodiuk, M. Current advances and future perspectives in extrusion-based bioprinting. *Biomaterials* **76**, 321–343 (2016).
4\. Ravanbakhsh, H. *et al.* Emerging Technologies in Multi‐Material Bioprinting. *Adv. Mater.* **33**, 2104730 (2021).
5\. Ning, L. & Chen, X. A brief review of extrusion‐based tissue scaffold bio‐printing. *Biotechnol. J.* **12**, 1600671 (2017).
6\. Kim, J. J. & Cho, D.-W. Advanced strategies in 3D bioprinting for vascular tissue engineering and disease modelling using smart bioinks. *Virtual Phys. Prototyp.* **19**, e2395470 (2024).
7\. Gudapati, H., Dey, M. & Ozbolat, I. A comprehensive review on droplet-based bioprinting: Past, present and future. *Biomaterials* **102**, 20–42 (2016).
8\. Devillard, R. *et al.* Cell Patterning by Laser-Assisted Bioprinting. in *Methods in Cell Biology* vol. 119 159–174 (Elsevier, 2014).
9\. Hakobyan, D. *et al.* Laser-Assisted Bioprinting for Bone Repair. in *3D Bioprinting* (ed. Crook, J. M.) vol. 2140 135–144 (Springer US, New York, NY, 2020).
10\. Zheng, Z. *et al.* Visible Light-Induced 3D Bioprinting Technologies and Corresponding Bioink Materials for Tissue Engineering: A Review. *Engineering* **7**, 966–978 (2021).
11\. Ge, Q. *et al.* Projection micro stereolithography based 3D printing and its applications. *Int. J. Extreme Manuf.* **2**, 022004 (2020).
12\. Miri, A. K. *et al.* Microfluidics‐Enabled Multimaterial Maskless Stereolithographic Bioprinting. *Adv. Mater.* **30**, 1800242 (2018).
13\. Park, W., Gao, G. & Cho, D.-W. Tissue-Specific Decellularized Extracellular Matrix Bioinks for Musculoskeletal Tissue Regeneration and Modeling Using 3D Bioprinting Technology. *Int. J. Mol. Sci.* **22**, 7837 (2021).
14\. Han, D., Yang, C., Fang, N. X. & Lee, H. Rapid multi-material 3D printing with projection micro-stereolithography using dynamic fluidic control. *Addit. Manuf.* **27**, 606–615 (2019).
15\. Lipkowitz, G. *et al.* Injection continuous liquid interface production of 3D objects. *Sci. Adv.* **8**, eabq3917 (2022).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Degasser Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/degasser-datasheet/)
**Published:** November 24, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Degasser User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/degasser/)
**Published:** March 11, 2024
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Flow-EZ and SliceChip for Pancreas on a Chip Study ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/pancreas-on-a-chip-study/)
**Published:** March 25, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Addressing the Ex-vivo Culturing with Microfluidic Platform
Utilizing enzymatically isolated human pancreatic islets has been an established standard to investigate diabetes pathogenesis and develop new treatments. However, these models do not fully reflect the complex structure of the pancreas and fail to mimic the full exocrine and endocrine changes associated with diabetes. Living pancreatic tissue slices have provided a more comprehensive model, preserving the natural exocrine and endocrine interactions.
The main challenge lays in maintaining [the cultures in long-term](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/). The slices have a high oxygen demand as metabolic byproducts and enzymes accumulate, necessitating frequent media changes. Functional studies, such as glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) assays, require multiple slices in open wells which increases the risk of contamination and complicates the tracking of individual slices over time. As a solution, [microfluidic organ-on-chip platforms](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/) replicate physiological oxygenation and perfusion conditions, supporting slice viability and enabling functional and immunolabelling assays analysis.
## Design Approach for Pancreas Slices on A Chip
Traditional PDMS-based organ-on-a-chip (OoC) devices have limitations such as gas permeability, drug absorption, and difficulty in handling large tissue samples. SliceChip is designed with Bio-inert, non-absorbent PMMA material to prevent drug interactions. It also features:
- Optimized convective fluid flow for better nutrient delivery.
- Reversible assembly for easy loading and retrieval of slices by Micronut clamp
- Integrated fluidic control for precise oxygen regulation and bubble-free operation.
These characteristics allow long-term culture, GSIS functional assessments, and real-time imaging of primary human and murine pancreatic slices.
*Figure *1* SliceChip of ex vivo pancreas assembly*
*The Figure 1 captures the process of slicing the pancreas sample and assembling it into the microfluidic chip:*
*(A) A section of tissue is removed is taken from the donor pancreas.
(B) The tissue is divided into smaller pieces, cleaned, and suspended in an agarose solution. Once solidified, a biopsy punch extracts a 7 mm diameter cylinder.*
*(C)* *A vibratome sectioned the tissue cylinder into 120 μm thick, 7 mm diameter slices.*
*(D) The pancreatic slices are transferred to a culture dish before being placed into the chip.*
*(E) Biocompatible 3D-printed stainless steel 316L to anchor the tissue slice.*
*(F) An exploded view and (G) an assembled top of the SliceChip system illustrate its components:*
*\[1\] Milled acrylic chip,*
*\[2\] Silicone gasket,*
*\[3\] Slice anchor within an 8 mm diameter central culture well*
*\[4\] Fluidic inlet,*
*\[5\] Fluidic outlet.*
## Optimization of Fluid Dynamics in OoC by Computational Modelling
Computational models were performed using COMSOL software to optimize fluid dynamics within the SliceChip platform. The analysis focused on:
1. Determining the optimal flow rate for glucose washout time. This enabled accurate GSIS experiments while maintaining high time resolution for sample collection.
2. Modelling fluid velocity, pressure, and shear stress to confirm that the system provides a uniform and physiologically relevant microenvironment for pancreatic slices.
3. Preventing excessive shear stress that could damage islets by ensuring flow rates remain within safe biological limits.
Simulations tested various flow rates (20–80 μl/min), selecting 80 μl/min to ensure a total inlet-to-outlet time of 2.95 minutes. This was shown to maintain high time resolution and allow for discrete sample collection.
At **80 μL/min** the simulations generated velocity, pressure, and shear stress profiles:
- **Velocity profile**: Slow fluid flow around the pancreatic slice (**<200 μm/s**) despite faster flow in inlet/outlet channels.
- **Pressure profile**: Uniform gradient across the chip.
- **Shear stress**: Peaks at **1.2 mPa**, staying well below damage-inducing levels for islets.
*Figure 2: SliceChip Computation Model of Fluidic Parameters Simulated in CAMSOL. (A) Glucose washout time for various flowrates to determine the time necessary for the chamber to match the input stimulant concentration. To ensure that fluid washed through the entire system, including external tubing, in under 3 minutes, a flow rate of 80 μl/min was selected. (B) The fluid velocity profile, at 80 μl/min, is shown with a zoomed in region depicting the area around a modeled pancreatic slice, demarcated by a white dashed line. (C) The pressure profile of the system. (D) The shear stress on the modeled slice: top-down view (pictured left), bottom-up view (pictured right), and side view (pictured bottom).*
## Complete Ex-Vivo Perfusion System Set-Up with Flow EZ
All components, including [tubing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-tubing/), [bubble traps](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/), and flow units, were sterilized before assembly to maintain a contamination-free environment. Media bottles were connected to an analytical selector valve, allowing controlled perfusion through the system. The microfluidic chip was loaded with pancreatic slices, secured with slice anchors, and placed inside a stage-top incubator on a Keyence BZ-X810 microscope. A Flow EZ pressure controller and Flow Unit ensured the precise media flow.
To prevent gas supersaturation and bubble formation, a [degasser](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device/) was used to remove dissolved gases. This setup generated two levels of residual oxygen in separate flow channels. An optical oxygen sensor inside the chip continuously measured oxygen levels every minute for 16 hours using a multichannel oxygen meter.
**The Fluidic System Allows for:**
- Automated switching between media reservoirs
- Precise regulation of dissolved oxygen levels
- Bubble-free and leak-free operation for extended slice culture
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2025/03/flowez-integrated-microfluidic-set-up.jpg)
**Figure *3* FlowEZ Integrated Microfluidic Set up**
Figure 3 illustrates the complete set-up:
(H) A block diagram of the fluid pathway within the pancreatic SliceChip system shows the,
\[a\] pressurized O2 and CO2 gas tanks that provide the pressure source for, \[b\] the Fluigent pressure pump,
\[c\] heat bath,
\[d\] pressurized media reservoirs that contain basal media for long term culture as well as low glucose, high glucose and KCl solutions for GSIS assay,
\[e\] in-line fluid switches for switching between solutions from
\[d\] Media exiting the reservoir is passed through,
\[f\] a degasser,
\[g\] a de-bubbler to control oxygenation levels and eliminate large bubbles within the fluid lines.
\[h\] Keyence fluorescent microscope
\[i\] Modified incubator stage that maintains the temperature of the chip and limits environmental exposure holds,
\[j\] the SliceChip is clamped using a Micronit clamp for long term culture, imaging, and functional assays.
\[k\] Flow meters monitor the flow rate and act in a continuous feedback loop with the regulators to modulate pressure and ensure a consistent flow rate before,
\[l\] effluent media is collected.
(I) A picture of the SliceChip and the fluidic control system with, (J) a closeup view of the incubation stage within the Keyence and (K) a brightfield image of a human slice and anchor within the system as taken from the microscope.
## Pancreas Tissue Ex-Vivo Endocrine and Exocrine Functions Assessment
Imaging analysis demonstrated the preservation of both endocrine and exocrine pancreatic tissues in SliceChip-cultured slices.
- **Preservation of Pancreatic Tissue Subtypes**: Insulin-producing β-cells, glucagon-producing α-cells, and amylase-containing exocrine cells remained present after culture.
- **Islet Architecture Maintained**: Insulin and glucagon colocalization were observed, consistent with normal islet structure, though enhanced by 3D imaging techniques.
- **Islet Viability Confirmed**: Continued insulin secretion in response to high glucose suggests that islets remained functional.
- **Exocrine Function Assessment**: Carbachol stimulation tested exocrine activity, but secreted amylase levels were below detection limits.
- **Exocrine Tissue Integrity**: Despite low measurable enzymatic activity, immunostaining confirmed amylase presence, indicating exocrine tissue structures were preserved.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2025/03/fluorescent-imaging-and-islets-area-comparison-of-pancrease-on-a-chip.jpg)
*Figure *4*: (A) Fluorescent Imaging: A pancreatic slice under normal oxygen conditions was immunostained for DAPI (nuclei), glucagon, amylase, and insulin, with images shown as full-focus Z-stack composites. Scale bars: 1 mm for individual stains, 500 μm for the co* *μm for the composite image.* *(B) Islet Area Analysis: Total islet area per slice was measured, with static cultures using 2–3 slices per condition, while SliceChip used 1 per run. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference in islet area across conditions, though this does not reflect insulin secretion function or overall slice viability.*
## GSIS Ex-vivo On-Chip Evaluation
Traditional GSIS experiments are endpoint-based, requiring separate slices for each test. SliceChip enables repeated GSIS assessments on the same slice over multiple days while maintaining sterility. It also allows simultaneous testing under different oxygen conditions to analyze the impact on insulin secretion. In the Figure 5, insulin secretion is normalized to islet area. Solid lines represent mean responses while shaded regions show variability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2025/03/gsis-analysis-on-a-chip.jpg)
*Figure *5*: (A) Experimental Timeline: Outlines the full experiment from pancreatic slice procurement to final perfusion on day 5, including GSIS assessments and resting periods. (B) GSIS Testing Protocol: Details the glucose perfusion schedule, including stabilization, sequential glucose and carbachol stimulations, and a terminal KCl perfusion on day (C) Insulin Secretion Response: Shows insulin secretion time curves under normal and low oxygen conditions, with responses normalized to islet area and compared across days 2, 3, and 5.*
- **Day 2 & 3 Findings:** Slices in normal oxygen display a physiological insulin spike in response to glucose, whereas low oxygen slices show a diminished response.
- **Day 5 Findings:** Both conditions exhibit an insulin spike, though the amplitude is reduced compared to earlier days.
## Conclusion
The novel **ex-vivo pancreas culturing approach** allows for long-term culturing and viability. GSIS assessments, yielded robust insulin secretion studied that may be normalized to islet area and measured over multiple days. Early experiments show that slices under normal oxygen conditions generate a physiological insulin spike in response to glucose, while those in low oxygen exhibit a blunted response. For full results and discussion on **serial ex-vivo perfusion and pancreas on chip** technology, please see the [full paper](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2024/lc/d3lc00850a#fn1).
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Fluid Degassing Device for Microfluidic System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device/)
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Bubble Trap
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## Expertises and resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Selecting Microfluidic Tubing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-tubing/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Compact Vacuum Pump - Technical Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/compact-vacuum-pump/)
**Published:** April 20, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
**Published:** March 13, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction: Mastering Droplet-Based Microfluidics
**[Droplet-based microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/ "Droplet-based microfluidics")** is a versatile microfluidic application area focused on creating and manipulating small, discrete volumes of liquids using immiscible fluid flows.1 First explored nearly two decades ago by Thorsen *et al.,* and further developed by H. Stone, D. Weitz, P. Tabeling this technology has enabled the **consistent formation of droplets** with uniform size and shape, offering significant advantages over traditional methods (spray drying, centrifugal droplet generation, ultrasonic atomization or bulk mixing).2
The ability to generate large numbers of uniform droplets and **the ability to encapsulate cells, biologicals, and other materials in them**, has made droplet microfluidics essential in fields such as drug discovery, enzyme kinetics, single-cell sequencing, and combinatorial synthesis. It also supports **lab-on-a-chip technologies**, advancing personalized medicine, diagnostics, cell culture, tissue engineering, and drug delivery. 3–7
Despite its potential, issues surrounding **droplet stability**, **monodispersity**, and maintaining sample integrity during manipulation remain. This guide provides 10 essential tips to help you generate droplets efficiently, minimize troubleshooting, and improve droplet formation.
## 1- Choose the Right Microfluidic Chip Design for Droplet Generation
The **[design of the microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ "design of the microfluidic chip")** is fundamental for controlling droplet size and simple droplet generation. Here are some common designs (Figure 1):8
- **Coaxial Geometry**: The continuous phase surrounds the dispersed phase in a 3D configuration, providing uniform droplets and better control over droplet formation. However, it requires complex fabrication.9
- **Co-flow Geometry**: Dispersed phase flows inside the inner capillary, offering control over droplet size with simpler fabrication than coaxial.10
- **Flow-focusing Geometry**: Opposing flows pinch off droplets at a narrow constriction, offering stable droplet formation but with more complex fabrication.11,12
- **Cross-flow Geometry**: Phases meet at a T-junction, ideal for low flow rates and uniform droplets, but less precise than other designs.2
- **Step-emulsification Geometry**: Droplets form when the dispersed phase flows through a sudden increase in channel size, ideal for high-throughput, monodisperse droplets.13
*Figure 1 Configurations geometries for droplet generation a capillary co flow b capillary flow focusing c combination of capillary co flow and flow focusing d cross flow e planar flow focusing f step emulsification8 from Nan L et al Lab Chip **24** 11351153 2024*
*Selecting the right geometry depends on the required droplet uniformity, throughput, and fabrication complexity. While simpler designs like co-flow and cross-flow are easier to manufacture, more complex designs like coaxial and step-emulsification provide better control and precision.*
Discover Secoya Technologies’ [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "RayDrop"): combining co-flow and flow-focusing with an exchangeable nozzle for practical transition between single and double emulsion.
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
Discover how to [choose the right microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ "choose the right microfluidic chip") and explore the[ microfabrication process](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ " microfabrication process") in detail.
## 2- Select the Right Material for the Microfluidic Chip
The **choice of material** **impacts the performance**, fabrication complexity, and scalability of microfluidic devices. The **main material classes** can be classified into **three types**:14
- **Inorganic Materials (Glass & Silicon):** Offer excellent chemical resistance, mechanical rigidity, and high optical clarity. However, they can be expensive and challenging to fabricate, requiring photolithography and wet-etching techniques. Despite the high cost, glass devices can be washed and reused.9
- **Elastomers (PDMS):** A low-cost, easy-to-fabricate alternative with excellent flexibility. PDMS is typically patterned using soft lithography and can be bonded to glass or other PDMS layers. However, it has poor compatibility with chemical solvents, limiting its use in some applications. Additionally, PDMS tends to absorb small hydrophobic molecules, which can interfere with biological or chemical assays by reducing analyte concentration or introducing unwanted contamination.15
- **Thermoplastics (PMMA, PC, PS, PVC, COC):** Enable large-scale manufacturing via injection molding or hot embossing. While ideal for high-throughput production, small-scale fabrication requires micromachining, which has lower resolution compared to lithography. Some thermoplastics and elastomers can also be 3D printed, though resolution varies.14,16
*The best material depends on your application. Glass and silicon provide high precision but are costly, PDMS offers flexibility and ease of fabrication, while thermoplastics allow for mass production but have lower resolution for small-scale features.*
***Table 1: Inorganic materials, elastomers and thermoplastics characteristics14 (Adapted from Elvira, K.S. et al.; Lab. Chip 22, 859–875 (2022).***
**Property****Inorganic Materials (Glass, Silicon)****Elastomers (PDMS)****Thermoplastics (PMMA, PTFE)****Chemical Compatibility**HighModerateModerate to Good**Thermal Stability**HighModerateVariable**Surface Hydrophilicity**HydrophilicTypically HydrophobicTypically Hydrophobic**Physical Patterning**Laser Ablation, Micromachining, Chemical EtchingCasting, 3D PrintingMicromachining, Moulding, Laser Ablation, 3D Printing**Fabrication Time**High (due to complex processes)Medium (depends on casting or 3D printing)Medium (depends on process complexity)**Cost**High (due to specialized equipment and processes)Medium (relatively affordable materials, but casting and 3D printing costs vary)Medium (depending on material choice and process complexity)
Learn more about [selecting the right chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ "selecting the right chip") and the [microfabrication process of microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ "microfabrication process of microfluidic chips").
## 3- Control Wetting and Surface Treatment
The interaction between fluids and the channel **surface** controls which fluid becomes the continuous phase and which becomes the dispersed phase. With small channel sizes and high surface area to volume ratios, **the channel/fluid interface has a dominant effect on fluid behavior**. This can be managed through material selection or surface modification techniques:
- **Material Selection**: Choosing materials with appropriate surface properties ensures proper wetting (Table 1). For example, hydrophilic surfaces will preferentially wet aqueous fluids, promoting oil-in-water droplet formation. Hydrophobic surfaces are ideal for water-in-oil droplets. The contact angle is an important factor in determining droplet type; a critical contact angle dictates whether water-in-oil or oil-in-water droplets are formed.14,16–20
- **Surface Modification**: When the native surface properties are not suitable, surface modifications are needed. Techniques such as plasma treatment, oxidation, and silanization can adjust the surface properties. For instance, glass can be modified for both oil-in-water and water-in-oil droplets, while PDMS often requires surface treatment to maintain desired properties for long-term droplet formation.21–23
*Proper material selection and surface treatments such as plasma treatment, oxidation, and silanization are essential for achieving stable and controlled droplet formation in microfluidic devices.*
## 4- Use Surfactants to Stabilize Droplets
Surfactants, or emulsifiers, are amphiphilic molecules that stabilize the fluid-fluid interface and can temporarily modify the channel surface. By changing the surfactant, **both water-in-oil and oil-in-water droplets can be generated** in the same device without additional surface modifications.24
- **Surfactant Function**: Common surfactants include **anionic** surfactants like **SDS** and **non-ionic** surfactants such as **Span 80**, **Tween 20**, and **PEG**. These surfactants stabilize droplets by temporarily altering surface chemistry (Table 2).25
- **Surfactant Placement**: Surfactants can be added to the disperse or continuous phase. In the continuous phase, surfactants migrate to the channel/fluid interface, where they coat the surface. Devices are often primed by flowing the continuous phase before introducing the disperse phase.25,26
*Surfactants stabilize droplets and temporarily modify channel surfaces, enabling precise control over droplet formation.*
***Tableau 2: Summary of surfactant types and their characteristics. 27,28***
***Type******Characteristics******Examples******Anionic****The hydrophilic group carries a strong negative charge*
*High irritation and acute toxicity potential**Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS)*
*Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate (SDS)****Cationic****The hydrophilic group carries a strong positive charge*
*Commonly used for cosmetic products**Stearalkonium*
*Benzalkonium*
*Trimethyl ammoniums such as Cetyltrimethylammonium Bromide (CTAB)****Amphoteric****Present both negative and positive charges.*
*Its final charge depends on the pH*
*Milder and less irritating**Hydroxysultaines*
*Coco Bentaine*
*Lauryl Bentaine****Non anionic****The hydrophilic group has no charge*
*Often used in drug delivery systems, biological testing, and food emulsification applications**PEGs*
*Sorbitans*
*Polysorbates*
*Tweens and Spans*
*Figure 2 Different structures of surfactants28 From Perelomov L et al Sustainability 16 4804 2024*
## 5- Improve Stability with Pressure Controllers
Precise control of flow is crucial for reliable droplet generation in microfluidic experiments. The size and monodispersity of droplets depend directly on the flow precision, making accurate flow control essential for obtaining repeatable and reliable results. **Choosing the right flow control method** can significantly impact the **quality of the droplets**:
- **Syringe Pumps:** Based on mechanical action, syringe pumps introduce pulse errors and have limited flow control, leading to inconsistencies in droplet size and making it difficult to achieve repeatable reactor volumes.
- **Pressure-Based Flow Controllers:** These systems offer high-precision flow control, faster reaction times, and continuous flow monitoring, ensuring consistent droplet size and eliminating the pulse errors seen with syringe pumps.
*Figure 3 Comparison in precision between pressure based controllers and syringe pumps*
*For more reliable and consistent droplet generation in microfluidic systems, [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "pressure-based flow controllers") are a superior alternative to syringe pumps. Their precise control and pulse-free operation ensure more reproducible experimental results.*
*Learn more about the effect of [pressure-based controller for droplet formation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/ "pressure-based controller for droplet formation") **compared to syringe pumps.***
## 6- Optimize Flow Rate Ratios for Monodispersity
In microfluidic droplet generation, the balance of inertial and viscous forces influences droplet size and consistency. Key parameters, such as fluid phase properties and [flow rates](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/ "flow rates"), directly impact the size, shape, and structure of droplets. The capillary number (Ca) is a crucial factor in this process, determining how flow rate adjustments affect droplet formation.29,30
- **Phase Flow Rates and Capsule Size:** The flow rates of the dispersed (Qd) and continuous (Qc) phases are directly related to capsule size. Increasing Qc while keeping Qd constant reduces capsule size. The Qd/Qc ratio is essential for optimizing droplet size and achieving monodispersity.
- **Double Emulsion and Shell Thickness Control:** Adjusting flow rates in double emulsion systems allows for control over both capsule size and shell thickness. For instance, Increasing Qd (shell phase flow rate in the case of double emulsion) thickens the shell without altering capsule size.
*Figure 4 Variation of the droplet diameter while increasing the flow rate of the continuous phase Qc Study done using the RayDrop developed by Secoya Technologies*
*Figure 5 Thickness of the shell as a function of the shell liquid flow rate Study done using the RayDrop developed by Secoya Technologies*
*Optimizing the flow rate ratios of dispersed and continuous phases is key to achieving consistent droplet size and monodispersity in microfluidic systems. Fine-tuning these ratios enhances the reproducibility and precision of droplet generation.*
*For more information regarding the influence of flow rates on the droplet size, check out our [application note about chitosan microcapsules](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/ "application note about chitosan microcapsules").*
## 7- Monitor and Troubleshoot Issues in Real Time
**Real-time monitoring** is essential to **identify and resolve issues as they arise,** ensuring consistent and accurate results. For instance, by utilizing advanced tools like flow rate real time control software and high-speed cameras, you can **continuously track key parameters and make adjustments instantly**.
- **High-Speed Cameras:** Microscope-integrated high-speed cameras offer real-time visualization of droplet formation. These cameras allow for close inspection of droplet size, uniformity, and any potential issues such as clogging or instability.
- **Oxygen Fluigent Software:** This software enables precise control and monitoring of flow rates in real time, allowing for quick adjustments to maintain optimal droplet formation conditions. It provides valuable data on pressure, flow rate, and system performance.
*Real-time monitoring with tools is critical for ensuring smooth droplet generation in microfluidic systems. By detecting and troubleshooting issues immediately, you can maintain consistent results and optimize performance throughout the experiment.*
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## 8- Avoid Bubble Generation for a Stable System
[Air bubbles in microfluidic systems ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/ "Air bubbles in microfluidic systems ")can disrupt flow stability, affect response time, and even cause clogging, leading to unreliable results. These bubbles can originate from dissolved gases, leaks, or the permeability of materials like PDMS, which allow air diffusion through device walls. [**Preventing bubble** formation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/ "Preventing bubble formation") is **crucial for maintaining smooth and reproducible experiments**.31
- **Understanding Bubble Formation:** Bubbles can arise from dissolved gases in liquids, porous materials, or improper system filling. Materials like PDMS are gas-permeable, allowing air to gradually accumulate in microchannels.
- **Prevention Strategies:** Degassing solutions before use, selecting low-permeability materials, and using hydrophilic surface treatments help minimize bubble formation. Implementing bubble traps or inline degassers further ensures a bubble-free system.
*Preventing bubbles in microfluidic setups is essential for maintaining stable and reliable flow. By degassing solutions, choosing appropriate materials, and incorporating bubble traps, researchers can significantly reduce disruptions and enhance the accuracy of their experiments.*
*Check our expertise page regarding [bubble issues in microfluidics and how to avoid them](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/ "bubble issues in microfluidics and how to avoid them").*
[
### Fluid Degassing Device for Microfluidic System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/fluid-degassing-device/)
[
### Bubble Trap
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/bubble-trap/)
## 9- Optimize Your Microfluidic System by Integrating Complementary Tools
Enhancing your microfluidic setup with practical tools improves efficiency, precision, and ease of handling. Integrating fluidic control valves for precise sample injections, adapting the system based on the crosslinking method, and utilizing UV crosslinking modules ensures better encapsulation and stability in droplet-microfluidics.
- **Easy Fluid Handling with Valves:** Tools such as [the Fluigent L-Switch](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/ "the Fluigent L-Switch") enable precise injection of small sample volumes, which is particularly beneficial when working with rare or sensitive cells, such as stem cells or patient-derived samples. This allows you to efficiently manage limited volumes, reduce waste, and improve experimental control.
- **Adapting the Setup to the Crosslinking Method:** The shell of microcapsules plays a crucial role in protection and function. Depending on the encapsulation process, the system should be adjusted to match the crosslinking method:
- **Physical Curing:** Natural macromolecules such as gelatin, alginate, and chitosan solidify under changes in pH, temperature, or ionic strength.29,30,32
- **[UV Crosslinking](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/ "UV Crosslinking"):** Synthetic polymers like polyacrylamide, polystyrene, and poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) are crosslinked using UV light or heat. PEGDA is particularly useful due to its tunable properties for biomedical applications.33–35
For instance, you can consider a UV crosslinking module which allows for exposure to a UV source to enable polymer crosslinking. The adjustable tubing inclination simplifies collection while preventing coalescence for superior encapsulation results.
*Integrating fluidic control valves, adapting the setup for different crosslinking techniques, and using a UV crosslinking module enhance precision, reproducibility, and efficiency in microfluidic experiments. These tools ensure better sample handling, stable encapsulation, and high-quality microcapsules.*
Discover our [UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
[
### UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Injection Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch-microfluidic-injection-valve/)
## 10- Keep a Clean Setup and Use Proper Cleaning Protocols
A **clean microfluidic setup** is essential for **preventing clogs**, **contamination**, and **maintaining consistent fluid flow** during experiments. Proper filtration, cleaning protocols, and maintenance techniques are key to ensuring smooth operation and reproducible results.
- **Pre-filter Solutions and Use Inline Filters:** Always filter solutions before introducing them to the microfluidic setup to remove particulates that could obstruct the channels. Additionally, using inline filters in the microfluidic circuit allows for real-time filtration, ensuring that contaminants are captured as they enter the system and preventing blockages from affecting fluid flow during the experiment.
- **Follow [Cleaning Protocols](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cleaning-procedure-flow-units/ "Cleaning Protocols") and Resolve Clogs Efficiently:** Tailor your cleaning protocol to the chemicals in use. Regular cleaning prevents chemical buildup and contamination. If the system becomes clogged, especially if it’s made of glass, perform a backflush by reversing the flow direction. This action will help clear any blockages and restore the function of the microfluidic channels without damaging the setup.
*As an example of a microfluidic cleaning accessory, explore our method for [cleaning the flow unit in this protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cleaning-procedure-flow-units/ "cleaning the flow unit in this protocol").*
## Conclusion
**Precision** is key to **achieving reliable, reproducible and easy droplet generation** in your microfluidic experiments. **By optimizing flow rates**, **preventing contamination**, and **integrating the right tools**, you can enhance your results and streamline your workflow. Don’t hesitate to experiment and fine-tune your setup to achieve the best performance.
For even better control, see Fluigent’s solutions for precise flow rate management and Secoya Technologies’ RayDrop for advanced droplet generation technology. Our solutions can help take your experiments to the next level.
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Easy droplet generation chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
[
### Highly stable fluorosurfactant for microdroplet generation
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/)
[
### Microfluidic Droplet Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/starter-packages/droplet-starter-package/)
[
### UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
[
### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
## Related Resources
- All
- Expertise
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Microfluidic Transistor for Precise Fluid Control Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Giant Unilamellar Vesicles (GUVs) Production using Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/giant-unilamellar-vesicles-production/)
- [ Expertise Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microbubble formation using the RayDrop Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Microfluidic Chitosan Microcapsules Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfabrication of Microfluidic Chips: Materials and Methods Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/)
**References:**
1\. Shi, N., Mohibullah, M. & Easley, C. J. Active Flow Control and Dynamic Analysis in Droplet Microfluidics. *Annu. Rev. Anal. Chem.* **14**, 133–153 (2021).
2\. Thorsen, T., Roberts, R. W., Arnold, F. H. & Quake, S. R. Dynamic Pattern Formation in a Vesicle-Generating Microfluidic Device. *Phys. Rev. Lett.* **86**, 4163–4166 (2001).
3\. Chiu, D. T. & Lorenz, R. M. Chemistry and Biology in Femtoliter and Picoliter Volume Droplets. *Acc. Chem. Res.* **42**, 649–658 (2009).
4\. Kim, S. C., Clark, I. C., Shahi, P. & Abate, A. R. Single-Cell RT-PCR in Microfluidic Droplets with Integrated Chemical Lysis. *Anal. Chem.* **90**, 1273–1279 (2018).
5\. Price, A. K., MacConnell, A. B. & Paegel, B. M. h *ν* SABR: Photochemical Dose–Response Bead Screening in Droplets. *Anal. Chem.* **88**, 2904–2911 (2016).
6\. Teh, S.-Y., Lin, R., Hung, L.-H. & Lee, A. P. Droplet microfluidics. *Lab. Chip* **8**, 198 (2008).
7\. Sjostrom, S. L., Joensson, H. N. & Svahn, H. A. Multiplex analysis of enzyme kinetics and inhibition by droplet microfluidics using picoinjectors. *Lab. Chip* **13**, 1754 (2013).
8\. Nan, L., Zhang, H., Weitz, D. A. & Shum, H. C. Development and future of droplet microfluidics. *Lab. Chip* **24**, 1135–1153 (2024).
9\. Utada, A. S. *et al.* Monodisperse Double Emulsions Generated from a Microcapillary Device. *Science* **308**, 537–541 (2005).
10\. Cramer, C., Fischer, P. & Windhab, E. J. Drop formation in a co-flowing ambient fluid. *Chem. Eng. Sci.* **59**, 3045–3058 (2004).
11\. Gañán-Calvo, A. M. & Gordillo, J. M. Perfectly Monodisperse Microbubbling by Capillary Flow Focusing. *Phys. Rev. Lett.* **87**, 274501 (2001).
12\. Anna, S. L., Bontoux, N. & Stone, H. A. Formation of dispersions using “flow focusing” in microchannels. *Appl. Phys. Lett.* **82**, 364–366 (2003).
13\. Li, Z., Leshansky, A. M., Pismen, L. M. & Tabeling, P. Step-emulsification in a microfluidic device. *Lab. Chip* **15**, 1023–1031 (2015).
14\. Elvira, K. S., Gielen, F., Tsai, S. S. H. & Nightingale, A. M. Materials and methods for droplet microfluidic device fabrication. *Lab. Chip* **22**, 859–875 (2022).
15\. Xia, Y. & Whitesides, G. M. Soft Lithography. *Angew. Chem. Int. Ed.* **37**, 550–575 (1998).
16\. Aghvami, S. A. *et al.* Rapid prototyping of cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) microfluidic devices. *Sens. Actuators B Chem.* **247**, 940–949 (2017).
17\. Wegrzyn, J. *et al.* Microfluidic architectures for efficient generation of chemistry gradations in droplets. *Microfluid. Nanofluidics* **14**, 235–245 (2013).
18\. Ren, K., Dai, W., Zhou, J., Su, J. & Wu, H. Whole-Teflon microfluidic chips. *Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.* **108**, 8162–8166 (2011).
19\. Durán, I. R. & Laroche, G. Current trends, challenges, and perspectives of anti-fogging technology: Surface and material design, fabrication strategies, and beyond. *Prog. Mater. Sci.* **99**, 106–186 (2019).
20\. Arunachalam, S. & Mishra, H. Collective wetting transitions of submerged gas-entrapping microtextured surfaces. *Droplet* **n/a**, e135 (2024).
21\. Salami, T. O. *et al.* Toward a better understanding of synthesis and processing of ceramic/self-assembled monolayer bilayer coatings. *J. Electron. Mater.* **34**, 534–540 (2005).
22\. Owen, M. J. & Smith, P. J. Plasma treatment of polydimethylsiloxane. *J. Adhes. Sci. Technol.* **8**, 1063–1075 (1994).
23\. Makamba, H., Kim, J. H., Lim, K., Park, N. & Hahn, J. H. Surface modification of poly(dimethylsiloxane) microchannels. *ELECTROPHORESIS* **24**, 3607–3619 (2003).
24\. Xu, J. H., Li, S. W., Tan, J., Wang, Y. J. & Luo, G. S. Controllable Preparation of Monodisperse O/W and W/O Emulsions in the Same Microfluidic Device. *Langmuir* **22**, 7943–7946 (2006).
25\. Baret, J.-C. Surfactants in droplet-based microfluidics. *Lab Chip* **12**, 422–433 (2012).
26\. Dinh, H.-H.-Q., Santanach-Carreras, E., Schmitt, V. & Lequeux, F. Coalescence in concentrated emulsions: theoretical predictions and comparison with experimental bottle test behaviour. *Soft Matter* **16**, 10301–10309 (2020).
27\. Bezerra, M. D. A., Arruda, M. A. Z. & Ferreira, S. L. C. Cloud Point Extraction as a Procedure of Separation and Pre‐Concentration for Metal Determination Using Spectroanalytical Techniques: A Review. *Appl. Spectrosc. Rev.* **40**, 269–299 (2005).
28\. Perelomov, L. *et al.* Organoclays Based on Bentonite and Various Types of Surfactants as Heavy Metal Remediants. *Sustainability* **16**, 4804 (2024).
29\. Duran, M. *et al.* Microcapsule production by droplet microfluidics: A review from the material science approach. *Mater. Des.* **223**, 111230 (2022).
30\. Chachanidze, R., Xie, K., Lyu, J., Jaeger, M. & Leonetti, M. Breakups of Chitosan microcapsules in extensional flow. *J. Colloid Interface Sci.* **629**, 445–454 (2023).
31\. Pereiro, I., Fomitcheva Khartchenko, A., Petrini, L. & Kaigala, G. V. Nip the bubble in the bud: a guide to avoid gas nucleation in microfluidics. *Lab. Chip* **19**, 2296–2314 (2019).
32\. Ghasemzaie, N., Jeyhani, M., Joshi, K., Lee, W. L. & Tsai, S. S. H. ATPSpin: A Single Microfluidic Platform that Produces Diversified ATPS-Alginate Microfibers. *ACS Biomater. Sci. Eng.* (2024) doi:10.1021/acsbiomaterials.4c00110.
33\. Hakim Khalili, M. *et al.* Additive Manufacturing and Physicomechanical Characteristics of PEGDA Hydrogels: Recent Advances and Perspective for Tissue Engineering. *Polymers* **15**, 2341 (2023).
34\. Sun, X. *et al.* Facile fabrication of drug-loaded PEGDA microcapsules for drug evaluation using droplet-based microchip. *Chin. Chem. Lett.* **33**, 2697–2700 (2022).
35\. Polymers | Free Full-Text | Additive Manufacturing and Physicomechanical Characteristics of PEGDA Hydrogels: Recent Advances and Perspective for Tissue Engineering. (2024).
**Catégories de ressource:** Droplet & Particle Generation
---
### [Microfluidic Transistor for Precise Fluid Control](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/microfluidic-transistor-precise-fluid-control/)
**Published:** February 27, 2025
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Paper from the BioMEMS and Nanoscale Engineering Group
Paper: Gopinathan, K. A.; Mishra, A.; Mutlu, B. R.; Edd, J. F.; Toner, M. A Microfluidic Transistor for Automatic Control of Liquids. *Nature* **2023**, *622* (7984), 735–741
This study is the result of a collaboration between the [BioMEMS Resource Center](https://www.massgeneral.org/surgery/cems/research-thrusts/biomems-and-nanoscale-engineering), the [Cancer Center](https://www.massgeneral.org/cancer-center/clinical-trials-and-research), the [Department of Surgery](https://www.massgeneral.org/surgery), from the [Massachusetts General Hospital ](https://www.massgeneral.org/) (Boston, MA, USA) and the [Shriners Children’s](https://www.shrinerschildrens.org/en) (Boston, MA, USA). **Led by** [**Dr. Mehmet** **Toner**](https://www.massgeneral.org/surgery/cems/faculty-and-staff/mehmet-toner)**,** the BioMEMS and Nanoscale Engineering group develops advanced microfluidic platforms to study cell and tissue behavior. Key projects include continuous-flow devices for real-time detection of cell secretions, analysis of cancer cell motility, and microfluidic systems for isolating circulating tumor cells and advancing diagnostics.
## What is a Transistor and its Purpose?
A transistor is a semiconductor device that regulates or controls the flow of electrical current or voltage, amplifies signals, and acts as a switch or gate. It typically consists of three layers or terminals of semiconductor material that can carry current. The transistor was invented in 1947 at **Bell Laboratories by John Bardee**n, Walter Brattain, and William Shockley, marking a breakthrough that replaced the bulky vacuum tubes used in electronics (Figure 1).
**Transistors** quickly became **crucial in modern electronics**, amplifying weak signals and switching between “on” and “off” states to control signal flow.1 They form the foundation of integrated circuits, where large numbers of transistors are interconnected to create microprocessors, memory chips, and other electronic devices. **Transistors revolutionized technology by enabling miniaturization, reducing power consumption, and increasing efficiency.**
Their invention led to the development of faster, smaller, and more affordable electronics, fueling advancements in computing, telecommunications, and many other industries (automative, energy, healthcare and medical devices).2,3
*Figure 1: The Bell Lab: William Shockley, Walter Brattain and John Barden in 1948. (\*Picture by AT&T. Public domain).*
## Is Mimicking Transistor Functions Possible in Microfluidics?
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2025/02/analogy-between-microfluidics-and-electrical-circuits.jpg)**Figure 2: Example of analogy between microfluidics and electrical circuits.**
Microfluidics and microelectronics share a fundamental analogy in their goal of **controlling small-scale flows and signals with high precision**. Microfluidic systems aim to manage fluid flow, but unlike electrical signals, fluid dynamics are influenced by viscosity, pressure, and channel geometry. Significant advancements have been made in microfluidic applications such as particle sorting, signal amplification, and cell manipulation, though challenges remain in **fully replicating the same level of efficiency and precision** seen in electronic systems.
For instance, while resistance in electronic circuits is well-understood, fluidic resistance is more complex, depending on factors like flow dynamics and microchannel design (Figure 2).
Additionally, **electronic transistors** exhibit essential functions such as saturation, proportional amplification, and reliable on/off switching, which have not yet been fully replicated in microfluidic systems.4–7 Achieving transistor-like amplification in microfluidics could **enhance precision**, **speed**, and **reliability**, enabling the use of electronic design strategies in biological and chemical processing for lab-on-a-chip and automated diagnostics.8,9
## Aim of the Study
This case study presents, for the first time, a **microfluidic transistor** that replicates **all functions of an electronic transistor**, including amplification, saturation, and switching, based on flow limitation. It enables fluidic versions of amplifiers, regulators, NAND gates, and more, allowing on-chip signal processing.4
As proof of concept, the fluidic transistor is used in an **autonomous particle dispenser** that detects and manipulates individual particles, demonstrating its potential for fully **autonomous lab-on-a-chip systems**.
*Figure 3: The developed microfluidic transistor and its schematic symbol.4*
## Methodology: How to Include a Microfluidic Transistor in Your System
The microfluidic transistor is constructed using elastomer and soft-lithography techniques, consisting of two crossed liquid channels separated by a deformable membrane. When a pressure difference is applied between the source and drain terminals, the membrane deforms, creating **flow limitation**, which is key to the transistor’s amplification function. This flow limitation can be modulated by applying pressure between the gate and source terminals.
*Figure 4 Schematic of the microfluidic transistor4*
The transistor was characterized by using principles similar to those of a p-channel junction field-effect transistor, demonstrating fluidic analogues to key electronic circuit elements such as amplifiers, level shifters, and latches.
[Fluigent’s LineUp Flow-EZ ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Fluigent’s LineUp Flow-EZ ")was used for precise pressure control during testing. The [Fluigent Software Development Kit (SDK)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/ "Fluigent Software Development Kit (SDK)") was employed for integration and automation of the fluidic system, **ensuring efficient control** over the entire experimental process. Fluidic connections were made using FEP tubing and PEEK fittings, and the flow measurements were analyzed with MATLAB to evaluate the transistor’s performance in microfluidic systems.
*Figure 5 Microfluidic setup for the amplifier function4*
*Figure 6 Microfluidic setup for level shifter4*
The **microfluidic transistor** was utilized in a smart particle dispenser system. The device consisted of a **particle trap** that **detects and manipulates particles using pressure-controlled fluidic circuits.** A suspension of 40-μm-diameter polystyrene microspheres in PBS was used for testing, achieving a concentration of approximately 30 beads per milliliter.
When a particle is trapped, a slight pressure increase upstream of the trap is detected and amplified by the amplifier circuit block. This change is compared with a reference threshold pressure, producing complementary signals indicating the particle’s presence. A latch circuit ensures the complementarity of the signals while suppressing noise, and level shifters adjust the output signals for control.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Lab Integration Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
## Proof-of-Concept: A Microfluidic Transistor for Complete Liquid Control Functions
The key functional characteristic of the microfluidic transistor is its ability to achieve proportional amplification of fluidic signals, analogous to its electronic counterpart. This amplification is quantified by the intrinsic gain, which is derived from the applied source-drain (PSD) and gate-source (PGS) pressures. A large operating region, where the intrinsic gain exceeds one, enables the transistor to perform **efficient signal amplification** (Figure 7). This is achieved through flow limitation, a phenomenon where the flow rate remains largely unaffected by increases in pressure beyond a specific threshold, **mirroring the saturation behavior observed in field-effect transistors.**
*Figure 7 Left The characteristic curves of the microfluidic transistor show all three operating regimes linear cutoff and saturation Right Panel displays a contour plot of the intrinsic gain with a large region where it exceeds one au = arbitrary units4*
To demonstrate the versatility of the microfluidic transistor, several electronic circuit elements were replicated in the fluidic domain. The **differential amplifier,** operating in a common-source topology, increases input differential pressure signals with a gain exceeding 20 (Figure 8). The **level shifter circuit**, based on the common-drain topology, shifts the baseline of input signals to higher levels while maintaining their signal morphology, enabling modular circuit design with varying biasing pressures (Figure 9). The **SR latch (Set-Reset)**, a bistable multivibrator, stores fluidic states by transitioning between two stable output states, thereby acting as a memory element for sequential operations (Figure 10).
*Figure 8 A fluidic differential amplifier based on the microfluidic transistor described4*
*Figure 9 An example of a level shifter based on the described microfluidic transistor4*
*Figure 10 An SR latchs state orange at Out2 can be set to high or low pressure using transient pulses applied to set blue or reset green input ports In1 or In24*
The fluidic transistor was applied to a particle dispensing system, where it enabled the concentration and ordering of particles in a fluidic stream. By employing a feedback loop between the “Sense” and “Trig” lines, the system achieves **deterministic particle ordering**, as evidenced by a reduction in particle spacing mean and standard deviation. This application demonstrates the **potential of microfluidic transistors to autonomously control the manipulation of physical samples**, showcasing their capability for integration into lab-on-a-chip devices for complex fluidic processing.
*Figure 11: (Left) Overview of the smart dispenser operation, showing the core microfluidic trap in various states as it senses and dispenses a single particle (scale bars, 50 μm). (Right) A representative dispense event to observe the three states in function of pressure.4*
## Conclusion
In this case study, researchers from the BioMEMS and Nanoscale Engineering Group (Massachusetts General Hospital) present a **microfluidic transistor** that achieves **proportional amplification** and **replicates all key transistor topologies**. This enables the creation of fluidic circuits based on electronic analog and digital designs, functioning autonomously. With the ability to process fluidic signals and control individual particles, this technology offers significant potential for advancing lab-on-a-chip systems and automatic control in microfluidic applications.
## Expertises and resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Maryland: Microfluidic System for Robotic that can Play Nintendo Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/this-is-a-customer-case-study/)
## References
1. Iwai, H. & Misra, D. The Transistor was Invented 75 Years Ago: A Big Milestone in Human History. *Electrochem. Soc. Interface* **31**, 65–72 (2022).
2\. The lost history of the transistor. *IEEE Spectr.* **41**, 44–49 (2004).
3\. *History of Semiconductor Engineering*. (Springer Berlin Heidelberg, Berlin, Heidelberg, 2007). doi:10.1007/978-3-540-34258-8.
4\. Gopinathan, K. A., Mishra, A., Mutlu, B. R., Edd, J. F. & Toner, M. A microfluidic transistor for automatic control of liquids. *Nature* **622**, 735–741 (2023).
5\. Duncan, P. N., Nguyen, T. V. & Hui, E. E. Pneumatic oscillator circuits for timing and control of integrated microfluidics. *Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci.* **110**, 18104–18109 (2013).
6\. Kim, S., Lai, D., Park, J. Y., Yokokawa, R. & Takayama, S. Microfluidic Automation Using Elastomeric Valves and Droplets: Reducing Reliance on External Controllers. *Small* **8**, 2925–2934 (2012).
7\. Mosadegh, B., Bersano-Begey, T., Park, J. Y., Burns, M. A. & Takayama, S. Next-generation integrated microfluidic circuits. *Lab. Chip* **11**, 2813 (2011).
8\. Convery, N. & Gadegaard, N. 30 years of microfluidics. *Micro Nano Eng.* **2**, 76–91 (2019).
9\. Li, S.-S. & Cheng, C.-M. Analogy among microfluidics, micromechanics, and microelectronics. *Lab. Chip* **13**, 3782 (2013).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology?](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
**Published:** June 9, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
[Read the full expertise](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-review-why-is-it-important-to-control-shear-stress.pdf)
[Use our shear stress calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
## Shear stress physical definition
Shear-stress is a tangential force applied on a surface. Fluid shear stress depends on fluid velocity and viscosity. Therefore, it can be simplified in the case of Newtonian fluids as the following equation:
τ = η \* (∂v/∂z)
where η is the viscosity (g/cm\*s = Poise), ∂v/∂z is the velocity gradient or shear rate (s).
In a microfluidic channel with laminar flow, the velocity profile is parabolic. The maximum velocity at the center and the minimum at the channel walls. Resulting shear stress is highest at the walls and lowest at the center of the channel. (figure 1).
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/flow-velocity-profileand-shear-rate-distribution-of-laminar-flow.jpg)*Figure 1 Representation of the flow velocity profile left and shear rate distribution right of a laminar flow inside a circular channel*
Use our [**Shear Stress Calculator**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/) to determine your experimental parameters. Define the flow rate or the pressure to be applied in your system, the dimension of microfluidic chip and tubing length to apply the correct controlled shear stress for your cell culture under flow conditions.
## Shear Stress Effects on Cells
In common in-vitro experiments, cells are cultured on petri dishes with no media flow. This is an incomplete model that does not completely capture the cellular behavior. In living organisms, cells are continuously exposed to shear stress from fluid movement. Incorporating shear stress into in vitro systems is essential for several reasons:
- **Mechanical Stimulation:** Fluid flow produces a mechanical stimulus, that promotes cell elongation to the direction of the flow —especially in endothelial and other adherent cell cultures (Figure 2. Cell morphology and organization changes under shear stress) \[1\]
- **Endothelial Cell Response:** Endothelial cells are particularly responsive to shear stress, undergoing cytoskeletal remodeling \[2\]. This response helps maintain vascular homeostasis and influences processes such as angiogenesis and vessel remodeling \[3\]
- **Cancer Cell Dynamics**: In cancer research, shear stress is known to contribute to the metastatic cascade processes, such as extravasation and interstitial migration. The average intravascular speed of tumor cells under luminal flow has been observed to increase to ~ 12.5 μm/h, as compared to ~ 9.4 μm/h under static conditions \[4\].
- **Improve Physiological Relevance and Precision**: HUVECs cultured under laminar flow, compared to those under orbital flow, exhibit more physiologically relevant tissue factor expression \[5\].
- **Tissue-Specific Shear Stress**: Different tissues experience distinct physiological shear stress levels, which is important to consider when designing and modeling in vitro experiments.
Cell typesShear stress value (Pa)Shear stress value (dyn/cm2)Arteries \[6\]1-210-20Veins \[6\]0.1 -0.61-6Mouse embryonic kidney \[7\]0.04 – 0.50.4 – 5Human kidney \[8\]0.03 -0.120.3 -1.2Alveolar epithelial cells \[9\]0.4 -1.54 -15\*for more values download the [full expert review](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-review-why-is-it-important-to-control-shear-stress.pdf "full expert review")[More data in the complete article](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-review-why-is-it-important-to-control-shear-stress.pdf)
## How to Control Shear Stress in Cellular Microphysiological Systems
With the development of microfluidics, enabling [precise control of flow rates](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/ "precise control of flow rates") and microchannel geometries, researchers are able to fine-tune the shear stress applied to cells. Early research demonstrated that specific levels of shear stress can influence endothelial cell structure and function \[10\].
Over the past 20 years, advancements in microfluidics have deepened our understanding of these effects. More recently, the development of **organ-on-a-chip models**—where functional tissues are cultured within microfluidic chips—has shown that [controlled mechanical stimulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/ "controlled mechanical stimulation") is crucial for regulating cell behavior and modulating responses to infectious agents and medicines \[11\].
**Key variables for controlling shear stress include:**
- **Precise Flow Rate Control:** Maintaining a [stable and reproducible flow rate ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/ "stable and reproducible flow rate ")over long periods ensures consistent shear stress exposure.
- **Microchannel Geometry:** The shape, width, and height of microchannels directly influence shear stress distribution across the cells.
- **Fluid Viscosity:** The viscosity of the culture medium affects shear stress. Variations in BSA content, chemical additives and temperature can affect the media viscosity.
- **Pulsatile vs. Steady Flow:** Mimicking physiological conditions requires dynamic flow patterns (e.g., pulsatile or oscillatory flow).
- **Cell Seeding Density and Adhesion:** The confluence and attachment of cells impact their response to shear stress; optimizing seeding conditions ensures uniform exposure.
- **Substrate Stiffness and Elasticity:** The mechanical properties of the microfluidic chip substrate influence how cells perceive shear forces.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[Read the full expertise](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/06/fluigent-review-why-is-it-important-to-control-shear-stress.pdf)
[Use our shear stress calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
## Related ressources
- [
### Microfluidic recirculation system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/microfluidic-recirculation-system/)
- [Support & Tools### Shear Stress Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### How to choose a microfluidic chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References
\[1\] Helmke B.P, Rosen A.B & Davies P.F. Mapping mechanical strain of an endogenous cytoskeletal network in living endothelial cells. Biophys J (2003). doi: 10.1016/S0006-3495(03)75074-7
\[2\] Malek A.M & Izumo S. Mechanism of endothelial cell shape change and cytoskeletal remodeling in response to fluid shear stress. J Cell Sci (1996). doi: 10.1242/jcs.109.4.713
\[3\] Campinho P, Vilfan A, Vermot J. Blood flow forces in shaping the vascular system: a focus on endothelial cell behavior. Front Physiol (2020) doi: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00552
\[4\] Hajal, C., et al. The effects of luminal and trans-endothelial fluid flows on the extravasation and tissue invasion of tumor cells in a 3D in vitro microvascular platform. Biomaterials (2021). doi: 10.1016/j. biomaterials.2020.120470
\[5\] Rochier A., et al. Laminar shear, but not orbital shear, has a synergistic effect with thrombin stimulation on tissue factor expression in human umbilical vein endothelial cells. J Vasc Surg (2011). doi: 10.1016/j.jvs.2011.01.002
\[6\] Lipowsky H.H., et al. The distribution of blood rheological parameters in the microvasculature of cat mesentery. Circ Res. (1978). doi: 10.1161/01.res.43.5.738
\[7\] Kimura H., et al. Effect of fluid shear stress on in vitro cultured ureteric bud cells. Biomicrofluidics (2018). doi: 10.1063/1.5035328.
\[8\] Ross E.J., et al. Three dimensional modeling of biologically relevant fluid shear stress in human renal tubule cells mimics in vivo transcriptional profiles. Sci Rep (2021). doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-93570-5
\[9\] Flitney E.W., et al. Insights into the mechanical properties of epithelial cells: the effects of shear stress on the assembly and remodeling of keratin intermediate filaments. FASEB J (2009). doi: 10.1096/ fj.08-124453
\[10\] Dewey C.F Jr. et al. The dynamic response of vascular endothelial cells to fluid shear stress. *J Biomech* Eng (1981). doi: 10.1115/1.3138276.
\[11\] Thompson et al. Mechanical Stimulation: A Crucial Element of Organ-on-Chip Models. Frontiers in Bioengineering and Biotechnology (2020). doi: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.602646
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [Cleaning Procedure Flow Units](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cleaning-procedure-flow-units/)
**Published:** February 26, 2025
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Ensuring Quality Control in Micro-Scale Devices by Innovative Leak Detection Method](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/method-for-leak-detection/)
**Published:** November 19, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Why Performing Quality Control for Microfluidics Devices?
Micro-scale devices have applications across multiple fields, including preventive medicine, pharmacology, and environmental sciences.
To ensure the safety and efficacy of microfluidic systems, rigorous quality testing is usually necessary. When developing a microfluidic system, particular attention should be paid to **micro-leakages**. In fact, they can compromise the performance of these systems. These can arise from various factors, including material quality, mechanical stress, manufacturing defects, or material aging. These issues can lead to a loss of reliability and device functionality, which can ultimately lead to product failures (e.g., loss of valuable samples, poor repeatability).
Leakage characterization can be performed during system qualification. In microfabrication, for example, it is essential to verify the integrity of microchannels at different pressures or flow rates. In digital PCR applications, leakage testing of valves is critical to ensure accurate results \[1\]. Furthermore, **[leak detection](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-leakage-testing-pack/ "leak detection")** is critical in lab-on-chip and organ-on-chip systems, where maintaining a sealed environment is essential \[2\]. Several methods can be used to characterize leaks of a microfluidic device.
**Figure 1** Leakage at a connection point in a PDMS chip
## Different Methods for Micro-Leak Detection
In leak detection, gas-based and liquid-based methods are used to assess device reliability under different conditions.
The maximum operational pressure test evaluates if a device can withstand standard operational pressures without leaking, useful for quality control before distribution \[3\]. In contrast, the burst test is a destructive test used to determine the device’s maximum pressure tolerance before failure and to assess its structural limits.
### *Gas-based testing*
The gas-based leak detection method involves measuring gas escaping from the system. It is conducted on a closed system by applying pressure, monitored by a pneumatic sensor or pressure transducer. A pressure drop indicates the presence of a leak. This method’s main advantages are its non-contaminating and non-destructive nature. With precise measurements, it is also a highly sensitive method.
Precautions like using dry air or inert gases such as nitrogen should be taken to prevent device damage, or minimizing the test setup’s internal volume helps optimize manometer sensitivity \[3\]. One challenge is correlating the gas leakage rate to the medium’s leakage rate, as viscosity differences may affect results \[4\]. For this reason, this method is more effective for qualitative rather than quantitative approach.
### *Liquid-based testing*
Liquid-based testing methods utilize external pressure sources and manometers to pressurize a sealed system filled with liquid. Typically, leak detection is done by gradually increasing the pressure; once the source is disconnected, any pressure drop indicates a leak. These methods traditionally use industrial pressure controllers that are limited in precision, as they do not have a fine enough measurement scale. The process can also be time-consuming, requiring computer integration and manual adjustments for both pressure control and flow rate measurement. This complexity adversely affects the performance, speed and consistency of quality control.
To address these challenges, Fluigent’s technology offers a **fully automated solution** with advanced **pressure-based flow controllers** and **high-sensitivity flow sensors** that **can detect leaks as small as nanoleaks**. Moreover, our user-friendly software streamlines the testing process, enabling quick and accurate quantification of leakage rates. This [leakage test pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-leakage-testing-pack/ "leakage test pack") reduces testing time and significantly improves reliability, performance and precision. It is valuable for characterizing components during development and for quality control at the end of the industrialization process.
**Figure 2** How to choose the right leak test protocol for your product and the conditions of your experiments 3
## Liquid-Based Burst Test and Leak Detection Method Using Precise Flow Control
A burst test using a PDMS microfluidic chip was performed, allowing to assess the pressure tolerance and burst threshold of the microfluidic channels. This type of analysis is crucial for ensuring component durability under high-pressure conditions.
## Material & Methods
To perform the test, the **Leakage Testing Pack** is used. The Flow-EZ pressure controller is used to apply pressure on the system. A flow sensor and a pressure sensor are employed to accurately detect and measure variations in pressure and flow rate upstream of the chip. During the experiment, a flow rate remaining at zero and a stable pressure measurement demonstrates the integrity of the system. If a positive flow or pressure drop is observed, this indicates a leak, which can be quantified precisely through flow rate measurements.
**Figure 3** Set up for leakage testing in a PDMS chip using precise flow control and detection [
### Microfluidic Leakage Testing Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-leakage-testing-pack/)
1. The microfluidic chip is sealed so that the system is closed.
2. The device is filled with DI water (colored water is used here in order to identify the location of the leak).
3. Low pressure is applied, for 30 min so the system can stabilize.
4. Pressure steps from 0 to 3 bar are programmed and maintained for 3 min at each step. This step can be automated using OxyGEN software, which enables the protocol to be created, applied and saved.
[More details on the full application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/11/application-note_-micro-leak-detection-1.pdf)
## Results and discussion: Nano-Leak Detection and Chip Delamination
The evolution of pressure and flow rate measurements was measured over time while the applied pressure was increasing gradually (Figure 4).
Above 2250 mbar, a flow rate of hundreds of nL/min is recorded, indicating the first leaks which correspond to partial damage of the microfluidic channels (picture 1).
As the applied pressure reaches 3000 mbar, complete delamination of the chip is observed (picture 2), resulting in significantly higher leakage rates of approximately 5 µL/min. This sudden increase in leakage is accompanied by a noticeable drop and instability in the pressure measurements by the sensor due to a decrease in the system resistance and a loss of system containment.
These results highlight the device’s precision in early leak detection. With the ability to detect flow rates as low as nL/min, this system can accurately quantify leakage rates, enabling users to assess the severity of leaks. This capability provides critical data for effective characterization and quality validation in microfluidic applications.
**1** Leakage resulting from the partial damage of the microfluidic channels
**2** Leakage due to chip delamination
**Figure 4:** Graph showing the evolution of pressure and flow rate measurements over time during the chip burst test, with images illustrating the corresponding leakage visualization.
## Conclusion and Outlook
This application note highlights how flow and pressure control systems enable rigorous liquid-based leakage detection methods. The results demonstrate that the system can effectively identify even the smallest leaks by measuring flow rates as low as nL/min and detecting pressure drops to enable precise leak rate quantification.
Fluigent’s systems offer integrated automation, ensuring both reliability and ease of integration into industrial quality control processes. This combination of precision, sensitivity, and automation positions Fluigent products as ideal solutions for the characterization of microfluidic systems, whether for development purposes or for the design of test benches.
[Download the full Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/11/application-note_-micro-leak-detection-1.pdf)
## Expertise & resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Microfluidic Leakage Testing Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-leakage-testing-pack/)
## References
\[1\] Xia Y, Chu X, Zhao C, et al. A Glass-Ultra-Thin PDMS Film-Glass Microfluidic Device for Digital PCR Application Based on Flexible Mold Peel-Off Process. *Micromachines (Basel)*. 2022;13(10):1667. doi:[10.3390/mi13101667](https://doi.org/10.3390/mi13101667)
\[2\] Dekker S, Buesink W, Blom M, et al. Standardized and modular microfluidic platform for fast Lab on Chip system development. *Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical*. 2018;272:468-478. doi:[10.1016/j.snb.2018.04.005](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.snb.2018.04.005)
\[3\] van Heeren H, Lagrauw R, Silvero V. A Microfluidics Association white paper. Published online 2022.
\[4\] Daugbjerg TS, Ogheard F, Batista E, van Heeren H, Silverio V. *MFMET Deliverable 1 – Guidelines and a Test Protocol for Flow Control Evaluating Leakage and Burst Pressure in Microfluidic Devices*. Zenodo; 2023. doi:[10.5281/zenodo.7901265](https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7901265)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Pressure & Flow Rate Calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/)
**Published:** January 12, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Why is flow rate so important in a microfluidic system?
Flow rate is an essential parameter in a microfluidic experiment, if not the most important flow-related parameter. It can be defined as the volume of solution that flows though the cross-section of the channel during one time unit. The flow rate influences the volume of solution needed for the experiment, but also the dynamics of the system, such as diffusion, particle speed, or the flow regime. In addition, the [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) applied in the system, which has a strong impact on cellular viability and behavior, is directly related to the flow rate.
More generally, controlling the flow rate in a microfluidic system allows biologists to more closely approximate in-vivo conditions, which is critical for [organ-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) experiments in particular.
Fluigent flow meters are designed to allow users to accurately [measure the flow rate](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/flow-control-and-measurement/) in a microfluidic system, and to give them the ability to directly control it.
## How do I calculate flow rate?
In a microfluidic system, viscous forces predominate over inertial forces, leading to laminar flow behavior and simplification of the Navier-Stockes equations. In this context, the flow rate is directly linked to pressure and flow resistance. The relationship is given by the following formula:
To fully characterize a microfluidic system, it is therefore important to determine the working flow rate range and the associated pressure range. This will help in selecting the most appropriate flow controller model.
Determining the system’s flow resistance is a necessary step to accurately calculate flow rate and pressure. It combines the resistance caused by the tubing and the resistance induced by the microfluidic chip. It is mainly dependent on the liquid viscosity and the tubing and channel geometries.
**Our Flow Rate to Pressure Calculator helps users to determine the pressure range and flow rate they need to achieve the best results.**
With:
- Mean flow-rate Q
- Pressure drop (change in P)
- Microfluidic resistance R
To help our users choose the right instrument, Fluigent has designed a **flow rate calculator** to estimate the resistance of most microfluidic setups. Users can determine **which** [**pressure range**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/) **to work with** and the recommended microfluidic pump by detailing their setup below.
Users must know the **geometry of the chip**, the type of control applied to the microfluidic experiment, the dimensions of the chip channels, and the dimensions of the tubing and control values. With this data, the Flow Rate to pressure Calculator will recommend a range of pressures and flow rates to work with.
## Chip Geometry
Select the design matching the microfluidic chip used in the experiment. If no chip design is appropriate, please select the closest according to the number of sections.
**Straight Channel**
Straight Channel
**Y Network**
Y Network
**Cross Network**
Cross Network
**H Network**
H Network
## Control Type & Unit
Select the type of control applied to the microfluidic experiment, flow rate or pressure, and the units to display the entry and results in. Enter the dynamic viscosity of the fluid used in the microfluidic experiment. Note that the dynamic viscosity of water (at 20°C) is 1 mPa-s.
Pressure Control
Flow Rate Control
Pressure Unit:
mbarPaPSImmHgmmH2O
Flow Rate Unit:
μl/minμl/sμl/hnl/minnl/snl/hml/hml/minml/sm³/s
### Straight Channel
Y Network
Cross Network
H Network
Dynamic Viscosity (mPa.s)
## Chip Channels Dimensions
Enter the chip channel dimensions in the Flow Rate Calculator. Each microchip design has a different number of sections. Use the channel identification letters (**a** to **e**) in the SETUP TYPE panel above to identify each channel section for use in the calculator. The resistance is then calculated for each channel section on the chip.
##### Channel
Height (μm)
Width (μm)
Length (mm)
Resistance (Channel):
Height (μm)
Width (μm)
Length 1 (mm)
Length 2 (mm)
Length 3 (mm)
Resistance (Channel 1):
Resistance (Channel 2):
Resistance (Channel 3):
Height (μm)
Width (μm)
Length 1 (mm)
Length 2 (mm)
Length 3 (mm)
Length 4 (mm)
Resistance (Channel 1):
Resistance (Channel 2):
Resistance (Channel 3):
Resistance (Channel 4):
Height (μm)
Width (μm)
Length 1 (mm)
Length 2 (mm)
Length 3 (mm)
Length 4 (mm)
Length 5 (mm)
Resistance (Channel 1):
Resistance (Channel 2):
Resistance (Channel 3):
Resistance (Channel 4):
Resistance (Channel 5):
## Tubing Dimensions
Enter the tubing dimensions and the length of each section. Tubing may be from or to the chip; refer to the introductory image for explanation. Use the flow inlet and outlet identification numbers (from 1 to 4) in the SETUP TYPE panel above to identify the tubing section for use in the calculator. The resistance is then calculated by the Flow Rate Calculator for each tube section in the setup.
##### Tubing
Diameter (μm)
Length (mm)
Resistance (Tubing):
Diameter (μm)
Length 1 (mm)
Length 2 (mm)
Length 3 (mm)
Resistance (Tubing 1):
Resistance (Tubing 2):
Resistance (Tubing 3):
Diameter (μm)
Length 1 (mm)
Length 2 (mm)
Length 3 (mm)
Length 4 (mm)
Resistance (Tubing 1):
Resistance (Tubing 2):
Resistance (Tubing 3):
Resistance (Tubing 4):
Diameter (μm)
Length 1 (mm)
Length 2 (mm)
Length 3 (mm)
Length 4 (mm)
Resistance (Tubing 1):
Resistance (Tubing 2):
Resistance (Tubing 3):
Resistance (Tubing 4):
## Control Values
Depending on the control type selected above, enter the pressure or flow rate values for each tubing or microchip channel. The flow rate or the pressure is calculated and displayed. Refer to the SETUP TYPE panel to identify the tubing or microchannel section.
##### Control
Pressure 1 ()
Pressure 2 ()
Flow rate ()
Pressure 1 ()
Pressure 2 ()
Pressure 3 ()
Flow rate 1 ()
Flow rate 2 ()
Flow rate 3 ()
Pressure 1 ()
Pressure 2 ()
Pressure 3 ()
Pressure 4 ()
Flow rate 1 ()
Flow rate 2 ()
Flow rate 3 ()
Flow rate 4 ()
Pressure 1 ()
Pressure 2 ()
Pressure 3 ()
Pressure 4 ()
Flow rate 1 ()
Flow rate 2 ()
Flow rate 3 ()
Flow rate 4 ()
Flow rate 5 ()
## Product Selection
var pressureConversionFactor = -1; var flowrateConversionFactor = -1; var previousPressureConversionFactor = -1; var previousFlowrateConversionFactor = -1; var resistanceConversionFactor = 1; var controlMode = "P"; var currentTab = "s";
window.onload = function() { setChannelType(null, currentTab) unitChanged(); controlChanged(); };
/\*\* \* Set the slider and its associated numerical control at the same time \*/ function setSliderValue(sliderId, value) { document.getElementById(sliderId).value = value; document.getElementById(sliderId+"\_num").value = value; }
/\*\* \* Update range and step for an input element after changing unit \*/ function updateInputElementUnit(slider) { if(slider.id.includes("pressure")) { var newMin = minPressureSI\*pressureConversionFactor; var newMax = maxPressureSI\*pressureConversionFactor; var newValue = slider.value\*pressureConversionFactor/previousPressureConversionFactor; } else if(slider.id.includes("flowrate")) { var newMin = minFlowrateSI\*flowrateConversionFactor; var newMax = maxFlowrateSI\*flowrateConversionFactor; var newValue = slider.value\*flowrateConversionFactor/previousFlowrateConversionFactor; } var totalRange = newMax - newMin; var step = totalRange\*resolution; roundedStep = Math.pow(10, Math.floor(Math.log10(step))); newMin = Math.round(newMin/roundedStep)\*roundedStep; newMax = Math.round(newMax/roundedStep)\*roundedStep; newValue = Math.round(newValue/roundedStep)\*roundedStep; slider.min = newMin; slider.max = newMax; slider.step = roundedStep; if(previousPressureConversionFactor > 0) { slider.value = newValue; } }
/\* Open the tab corresponding to the button that was clicked \*/ function setChannelType(buttonEvent, tab\_id\_prefix) { currentTab = tab\_id\_prefix; tabs = document.getElementsByClassName("tabcontent"); for (i = 0; i < tabs.length; i++) { if (tabs\[i\].id.startsWith(tab\_id\_prefix + "\_")) { tabs\[i\].style.display = "block"; } else { tabs\[i\].style.display = "none"; } } let buttons = document.getElementsByClassName("tablinks"); for (let i = 0; i < buttons.length; i++) { buttons\[i\].classList.remove("active"); } if (buttonEvent && buttonEvent.target) { buttonEvent.target.classList.add("active"); } calculateCurrent(); } /\*\* \* Returns the fluidic resistance of a rectangular section channel \* Use SI Units \* @param {float} viscosity \* @param {float} length \* @param {float} height \* @param {float} width \*/ function calculateResistanceRect(viscosity, length, height, width) { if(height > width) { var temp = height; height = width; width = temp; } return 12\*viscosity\*length/(Math.pow(height,3)\*width\*(1-0.63\*height/width)); }
/\*\* \* Returns the fluidic resistance of a circular section channel \* Use SI Units \* @param {float} viscosity \* @param {float} length \* @param {float} diameter \*/ function calculateResistanceCirc(viscosity, length, diameter) { return 128\*viscosity\*length/(Math.PI\*Math.pow(diameter,4)); }
/\*\* \* Convert the SI fluidic resistance to a unit based on the \* chosen pressure and flow rate \* @param si\_value : float \*/ function convertResistance(si\_value) { return si\_value\*resistanceConversionFactor; }
function convertNumber(n) { if(Math.abs(n) >= 0.01 && Math.abs(n) < 10000) { return n.toFixed(4-Math.floor(Math.log10(Math.abs(n)))); } else { return n.toExponential(4); } } /\*\* \* Pressure or Flow Rate unit changed. Update the values and text \*/ function unitChanged() { previousPressureConversionFactor = pressureConversionFactor; previousFlowrateConversionFactor = flowrateConversionFactor; var pressureUnit = document.getElementById("pressureUnit").value; var flowrateUnit = document.getElementById("flowrateUnit").value; var parsedFlowrateUnit = flowrateUnit.split("/"); var volumeUnit = parsedFlowrateUnit\[0\]; var timeUnit = parsedFlowrateUnit\[1\]; var resistanceUnit = pressureUnit + "."+timeUnit + "/" + volumeUnit; pressureElements = document.getElementsByClassName("pressureUnit"); for (i = 0; i < pressureElements.length; i++) { pressureElements\[i\].value = pressureUnit; } flowrateElements = document.getElementsByClassName("flowrateUnit"); for (i = 0; i < flowrateElements.length; i++) { flowrateElements\[i\].value = flowrateUnit; } resistanceElements = document.getElementsByClassName("resistanceUnit"); for (i = 0; i < resistanceElements.length; i++) { resistanceElements\[i\].value = resistanceUnit; } switch(pressureUnit) { case("Pa"): pressureConversionFactor = 1; break; case("mbar"): pressureConversionFactor = 0.01; break; case("PSI"): pressureConversionFactor = 0.000145038; break; case("mmHg"): pressureConversionFactor = 760/101325; break; case("mmH2O"): pressureConversionFactor = 1/9.80665; break; } flowrateConversionFactor = 1; switch(volumeUnit) { case("m³"): break; case("nl"): flowrateConversionFactor \*= Math.pow(10,12); break; case("µl"): flowrateConversionFactor \*= Math.pow(10,9); break; case("ml"): flowrateConversionFactor \*= Math.pow(10,6); break; } switch(timeUnit) { case("s"): break; case("min"): flowrateConversionFactor \*= 60; break; case("h"): flowrateConversionFactor \*= 3600; break; } resistanceConversionFactor = pressureConversionFactor/flowrateConversionFactor; updateAllControlElementUnits(); calculateAll(); } function updateAllControlElementsOfClass(className) { controls = document.getElementsByClassName(className); Array.prototype.forEach.call(controls, function(item, index, array) { updateInputElementUnit(item); }); } function updateAllControlElementUnits() { classes = \["pressureControl","flowrateControl", "allControl", "outputOnly"\]; classes.forEach(function(item, index, array) { updateAllControlElementsOfClass(item); }); } function controlChanged() { pressureControlInputs = document.getElementsByClassName("pressureControl"); flowrateControlInputs = document.getElementsByClassName("flowrateControl"); if(document.getElementById("p\_control").checked) { controlMode = "P"; for (i = 0; i < pressureControlInputs.length; i++) { pressureControlInputs\[i\].disabled = false; } for (i = 0; i < flowrateControlInputs.length; i++) { flowrateControlInputs\[i\].disabled = true; } } else { controlMode = "Q"; for (i = 0; i < pressureControlInputs.length; i++) { pressureControlInputs\[i\].disabled = true; } for (i = 0; i < flowrateControlInputs.length; i++) { flowrateControlInputs\[i\].disabled = false; } } calculateAll(); } /\*\* \* Calculate the fluidic resistance for a straight microfluidic channel \*/ function calculateStraight() { var mu = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("viscosity").value; var d = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("s\_diameter").value; var h = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("s\_height").value; var w = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("s\_width").value; var lc = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("s\_lengthTubing").value; var lr = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("s\_lengthChannel").value; var rr = calculateResistanceRect(mu, lr, h, w); var rc = calculateResistanceCirc(mu, lc, d); var R\_Circ = document.getElementById("s\_resCircular"); var R\_Rect = document.getElementById("s\_resRectangular"); R\_Rect.value = convertNumber(convertResistance(rr)); R\_Circ.value = convertNumber(convertResistance(rc)); p2 = document.getElementById("s\_pressure2").value/pressureConversionFactor; if(controlMode == "P") { p1 = document.getElementById("s\_pressure1").value/pressureConversionFactor; var q = (p1 - p2)/(rr+rc); setSliderValue("s\_flowrate", convertNumber(q\*flowrateConversionFactor)); } else if(controlMode == "Q") { var q = document.getElementById("s\_flowrate").value/flowrateConversionFactor var p1 = p2 + q\*(rr+rc); setSliderValue("s\_pressure1", convertNumber(p1\*pressureConversionFactor)); } getAllPressureRanges(\[p1, p2\]); getAllFlowrateRanges(\[q\]); } /\*\* \* Calculate the fluidic resistance for a Y-Shaped microfluidic channel \*/ function calculateY() { var mu = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("viscosity").value; var d = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("y\_diameter").value; var h = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("y\_height").value; var w = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("y\_width").value; var rtotList = \[\]; var pressureList = \[\]; var flowrateList = \[\]; r\_inv\_sum = 0; var p\_over\_r\_sum = 0; for(i=1; i <= 3; i++) { lch = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("y\_lengthChannel"+i).value; lt = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("y\_lengthTubing"+i).value; var rt = calculateResistanceCirc(mu, lt, d); var rch = calculateResistanceRect(mu, lch, h, w); document.getElementById("y\_resChannel"+i).value = convertNumber(convertResistance(rch)); document.getElementById("y\_resTubing"+i).value = convertNumber(convertResistance(rt)); var pressure\_i = document.getElementById("y\_pressure"+i).value/pressureConversionFactor; var flowrate\_i = document.getElementById("y\_flowrate"+i).value/flowrateConversionFactor; pressureList.push(pressure\_i); flowrateList.push(flowrate\_i); rtotList.push(rt+rch); if(controlMode == "P") { r\_inv\_sum += 1/(rt+rch); p\_over\_r\_sum += pressure\_i/(rt+rch); } } if(controlMode == "P") { var Pcenter = p\_over\_r\_sum/r\_inv\_sum; for(i=1; i <= 2; i++) { flowrateList\[i-1\] = (pressureList\[i-1\]- Pcenter)/rtotList\[i-1\]; setSliderValue("y\_flowrate"+i, convertNumber(flowrateList\[i-1\]\*flowrateConversionFactor)); } } else if(controlMode == "Q") { var Pcenter = pressureList\[2\] + rtotList\[2\] \* (flowrateList\[0\] + flowrateList\[1\]); for(i=1; i <= 2; i++) { pressureList\[i-1\] = Pcenter + flowrateList\[i-1\]\*rtotList\[i-1\]; document.getElementById("y\_pressure"+i).value = convertNumber(pressureList\[i-1\]\*pressureConversionFactor); setSliderValue("y\_pressure"+i, convertNumber(pressureList\[i-1\]\*pressureConversionFactor)); } } setSliderValue("y\_flowrate3", convertNumber((flowrateList\[0\] + flowrateList\[1\])\*flowrateConversionFactor)); getAllPressureRanges(pressureList); getAllFlowrateRanges(flowrateList); } /\*\* \* Calculate the fluidic resistance for an X-Shaped microfluidic channel \*/ function calculateX() { var mu = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("viscosity").value; var d = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("x\_diameter").value; var h = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("x\_height").value; var w = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("x\_width").value; var rtotList = \[\]; var pressureList = \[\]; var flowrateList = \[\]; r\_inv\_sum = 0; var p\_over\_r\_sum = 0 for(i=1; i <= 4; i++) { lch = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("x\_lengthChannel"+i).value; lt = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("x\_lengthTubing"+i).value; var rt = calculateResistanceCirc(mu, lt, d); var rch = calculateResistanceRect(mu, lch, h, w); document.getElementById("x\_resChannel"+i).value = convertNumber(convertResistance(rch)); document.getElementById("x\_resTubing"+i).value = convertNumber(convertResistance(rt)); var pressure\_i = document.getElementById("x\_pressure"+i).value/pressureConversionFactor; var flowrate\_i = document.getElementById("x\_flowrate"+i).value/flowrateConversionFactor; pressureList.push(pressure\_i); flowrateList.push(flowrate\_i); rtotList.push(rt+rch); if(controlMode == "P") { r\_inv\_sum += 1/(rt+rch); p\_over\_r\_sum += pressure\_i/(rt+rch); } } if(controlMode == "P") { var Pcenter = p\_over\_r\_sum/r\_inv\_sum; for(i=1; i <= 3; i++) { flowrateList\[i-1\] = (pressureList\[i-1\]- Pcenter)/rtotList\[i-1\]; setSliderValue("x\_flowrate"+i, convertNumber(flowrateList\[i-1\]\*flowrateConversionFactor)); } } else if(controlMode == "Q") { var Pcenter = pressureList\[3\] + rtotList\[3\] \* (flowrateList\[0\] + flowrateList\[1\] + flowrateList\[2\]); for(i=1; i <= 3; i++) { pressureList\[i-1\] = Pcenter + flowrateList\[i-1\]\*rtotList\[i-1\]; setSliderValue("x\_pressure"+i, convertNumber(pressureList\[i-1\]\*pressureConversionFactor)); } } setSliderValue("x\_flowrate4", convertNumber((flowrateList\[0\] + flowrateList\[1\] + flowrateList\[2\])\*flowrateConversionFactor)); getAllPressureRanges(pressureList); getAllFlowrateRanges(flowrateList); } /\*\* \* Calculate the fluidic resistance for an H-Shaped microfluidic channel \*/ function calculateH() { var mu = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("viscosity").value; var d = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("h\_diameter").value; var h = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("h\_height").value; var w = Math.pow(10,-6)\*document.getElementById("h\_width").value; var rtotList = \[\]; var pressureList = \[\]; var flowrateList = \[\]; for(i=1; i <= 5; i++) { lch = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("h\_lengthChannel"+i).value; var rch = calculateResistanceRect(mu, lch, h, w); document.getElementById("h\_resChannel"+i).value = convertNumber(convertResistance(rch)); if(i<5) { lt = Math.pow(10,-3)\*document.getElementById("h\_lengthTubing"+i).value; var rt = calculateResistanceCirc(mu, lt, d); document.getElementById("h\_resTubing"+i).value = convertNumber(convertResistance(rt)); var pressure\_i = document.getElementById("h\_pressure"+i).value/pressureConversionFactor; } else { var rt = 0; } var flowrate\_i = document.getElementById("h\_flowrate"+i).value/flowrateConversionFactor; pressureList.push(pressure\_i); flowrateList.push(flowrate\_i); rtotList.push(rt+rch); } if(controlMode == "P") { var a = (1/rtotList\[0\] + 1/rtotList\[1\]); var b = (1/rtotList\[2\] + 1/rtotList\[3\]); var c = (pressureList\[0\]/rtotList\[0\] + pressureList\[1\]/rtotList\[1\] + pressureList\[2\]/rtotList\[2\] + pressureList\[3\]/rtotList\[3\]); var d = (1/rtotList\[0\] + 1/rtotList\[1\] + 1/rtotList\[4\]); var e = -(1/rtotList\[4\]); var f = (pressureList\[0\]/rtotList\[0\] + pressureList\[1\]/rtotList\[1\]); var pc2 = (c/a - f/d)/(b/a - e/d); var pc1 = (c/a) - (b/a)\*pc2; flowrateList\[0\] = (pressureList\[0\] - pc1)/rtotList\[0\]; flowrateList\[1\] = (pressureList\[1\] - pc1)/rtotList\[1\]; flowrateList\[2\] = (pressureList\[2\] - pc2)/rtotList\[2\]; flowrateList\[3\] = -(pressureList\[3\] - pc2)/rtotList\[3\]; flowrateList\[4\] = flowrateList\[0\] + flowrateList\[1\]; for(i=1; i <= 5; i++) { setSliderValue("h\_flowrate"+i, convertNumber(flowrateList\[i-1\]\*flowrateConversionFactor)); } } else if(controlMode == "Q") { var pc2 = pressureList\[3\] + rtotList\[3\] \* (flowrateList\[0\] + flowrateList\[1\] + flowrateList\[2\]); var pc1 = pc2 + rtotList\[4\] \* (flowrateList\[0\] + flowrateList\[1\]); pressureList\[0\] = pc1 + flowrateList\[0\]\*rtotList\[0\]; pressureList\[1\] = pc1 + flowrateList\[1\]\*rtotList\[1\]; pressureList\[2\] = pc2 + flowrateList\[2\]\*rtotList\[2\]; flowrateList\[4\] = flowrateList\[0\] + flowrateList\[1\]; flowrateList\[3\] = flowrateList\[2\] + flowrateList\[4\]; for(i=1; i <= 3; i++) { setSliderValue("h\_pressure"+i, convertNumber(pressureList\[i-1\]\*pressureConversionFactor)); } setSliderValue("h\_flowrate4", convertNumber(flowrateList\[3\]\*flowrateConversionFactor)); setSliderValue("h\_flowrate5", convertNumber(flowrateList\[4\]\*flowrateConversionFactor)); } getAllPressureRanges(pressureList); getAllFlowrateRanges(flowrateList); } /\*\* \* Calculate the fluidic resistance for all topologies \*/ function calculateAll() { calculateStraight(); calculateY(); calculateX(); calculateH(); } /\*\* \* Calculate the fluidic resistance for the currently active topology \*/ function calculateCurrent() { switch(currentTab) { case "s": calculateStraight(); break; case "y": calculateY(); break; case "x": calculateX(); break; case "h": calculateH(); break; } } /\*\* \* Get the lowest pressure range that covers the given SI pressure value \*/ function getPressureRange(pressureValue) { if(pressureValue == 0 || pressureValue != pressureValue) return NaN; else if(pressureValue > 0) { var appropriateRanges = positivePressureValues.filter(function(value, index, array) { return value\*mbarToSI >= pressureValue; }); } else { var appropriateRanges = negativePressureValues.filter(function(value, index, array) { return value\*mbarToSI <= pressureValue; }); } if(appropriateRanges.length > 0) { return appropriateRanges\[0\]; } return NaN; }
/\*\* \* Get the lowest flow rate range that covers the given flow rate value \*/ function getFlowrateRange(flowrateValue) { if(flowrateValue == 0 || flowrateValue != flowrateValue) return NaN; var appropriateRanges = flowrateValues.filter(function(value, index, array) { return value\*ulMinToSI >= Math.abs(flowrateValue); }); if(appropriateRanges.length > 0) { return appropriateRanges\[0\]; } return NaN; }
/\*\* \* Display the recommended pressure ranges given the array of SI pressures \*/ function getAllPressureRanges(pressuresSI) { var ranges = pressuresSI.map(value => getPressureRange(value) ).filter(function(value, index, array) { // Filter out NaNs and duplicates return(value == value && array.indexOf(value) == index); }).sort((a,b) => parseInt(a) > parseInt(b)); outputElement = document.getElementById("pressureProducts"); switch(ranges.length) { case 0: outputElement.value = ""; break; default: outputElement.value = "Recommended pressure ranges: " + ranges.map(value => value + " mbar"); } }
/\*\* \* Display the recommended flow rate ranges given the array of SI flow rates \*/ function getAllFlowrateRanges(flowratesSI) { var ranges = flowratesSI.map(value => getFlowrateRange(value) ).filter(function(value, index, array) { // Filter out NaNs and duplicates return(value == value && array.indexOf(value) == index); }).sort((a,b) => parseInt(a) > parseInt(b)); outputElement = document.getElementById("flowrateProducts"); switch(ranges.length) { case 0: outputElement.value = ""; break; default: outputElement.value = "Recommended flow rate ranges: " + ranges.map(value => "±" + value + " µl/min"); } }
## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Resistance
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Support & Tools
---
### [Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
[Drop-Seq Complete Protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/drop-seq-protocol/)
[McCarroll Drop-Seq Protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/mccarroll-drop-seq-protocol/)
[Macosko Article](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/macosko-drop-seq-article/)
## Principle of the Droplet-sequencing method
Droplet-sequencing, also known as single-cell sequencing in droplets, is a cutting-edge technique revolutionizing the field of genomics.
The Drop-Seq protocol, originally developed by Macosko et al. in 2015, is a high throughput method that enables the **sequencing of the mRNA from a large number of cells.** The power of this technology resides in the fact that during sequencing, one can distinguish where the original information came on a cell to cell basis. This allows one to make a gene expression map of the cell, or even to distinguish cell populations within a tissue.
This Drop-Seq method relies on [**droplet microfluidics**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) and library preparation for **Next-Gen Sequencing (NGS)**: droplets allow for rapid and efficient compartmentalization using low reagent volumes and NGS allows for **fast and high throughput analysis of single-cell gene expression**.
[
### Drop-Seq Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/drop-seq-package/)
The Droplet-Sequencing method relies on pairing **one barcoded bead and one cell in a small droplet**. After droplet formation, cell lysis occurs such that the polyadenylated RNA produced exclusively by this cell can specifically be captured on the bead. Capturing RNA with a single barcoded bead will allow the **reconstitution of the information** coming from that cell.
Next, the mRNA is reverse transcribed along with the barcode into tagged cDNA, and PCR amplified. Finally, the resulting libraries are sequenced by NGS, and analyzed using various bioinformatics tools: cell barcode sequences are identified, transcript sequences linked to the barcodes mapped to a reference genome. All transcripts linked to one barcode form the gene-expression profile of a single cell
## What about the drop-seq process?
All the reagents are brought to a nozzle where the carrier fluid (oil) will shear the water phase into small droplets at high speeds.
Once the encapsulation process is finished, the monodisperse emulsion obtained should look like this:
Empty drops will generate noise in the data, as they carry environmental RNA that can bind to beads once droplets get merged.
For drops only containing a bead, most of the time it will not generate more noise as the unused barcodes will be destroyed later in the process.
Cells that were not encapsulated will not be sequenced, as their RNA cannot be captured in drops, but will participate to the noise as the RNA released will bind to random beads.
Usually, the Drop-Seq method **captures around 5-10% of the input cells.**
This is due to the [**Poisson distribution**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poisson_distribution), basically, this is a balance between having too many empty drops and having drops with two or more cells/beads, that will generate noise and unusable data during sequencing.
Special buffer components that are contained in the bead buffer will start cell lysis as soon as the drops are formed, and will carry on during droplet production. By the time the run is finished, all the cells will be lysed and RNA captured. This means the emulsion may be broken by merging all the drops and recovering the beads to start the molecular biology steps for sequencing the captured RNA. Reverse transcription (RT) will generate cDNA attached to the barcodes, and an exonuclease will be used to remove unused barcodes.
## Promising results from the Drop-Seq protocol
**Different genes, one cell?**
First, there is the PCR handle, which will allow for the amplification of the generated cDNA molecules at the end of the process, mainly for amplifying the signal by generating more copies.
Second comes the barcoding sequence, which will be the same on each oligo from one bead, but different from one bead to another. All the sequences that contain a given barcode will then be associated to the same cell of origin.
Third comes the UMI, which stands for Unique Molecular Identifier. All the oligos on one bead have a different UMI sequence, so that different molecules of mRNA can be distinguished at the cell level. This allows for one to know how many mRNA of a given sequence have been produced by a cell.
Finally comes the capture sequence, which is usually a poly(T) tail to match the poly(A) tail of the 3’ end of mRNA. If you are only targeting a specific gene panel, you can also use complementary sequences to only capture those.
The power of the **Drop-Seq method** relies on how the **microbeads** are constructed: they are **coated covalently with oligonucleotides that help capture RNA**, barcode it in a way each bead contains unique barcode and diverse unique molecular identifiers to help quantifying captured RNA molecules.
## Conclusion
According to Macosko and by following the McCarroll protocol:
“Drop-Seq can prepare 10,000 single-cell libraries for sequencing in 12 hours, for about 6.5 cents per cell representing a >100-fold improvement in both time and cost relative to existing methods”
Using the Fluigent Drop-Seq method with pressure will allow to have same results with more control on droplet size and then better reproducibility.
Fluigent setup can also be automated using OxyGEN software for routine experiment as well.
## Expertises & resources
- [version="1.0"?
Expertise videos### MICROFLUIDICS in DROPLET DIGITAL PCR
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/fluigent-expertise/microfluidics-in-droplet-digital-pcr/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0"?
Product presentation videos### DROPLET STARTER package – Make DROPLETS within minutes!
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/droplet-starter-package-make-droplets-within-minutes/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
**Published:** October 17, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## The Lamprou Lab (Queen’s University Belfast)
[The Lamprou lab](https://www.lamproulab.com/), affiliated with Queen’s University Belfast, **specializes** in three main areas: **nanoparticles for imaging and therapy, lab-on-a-chip technology,** and **therapeutic implants**. Their interdisciplinary approach has driven innovation in healthcare since 2012, **developing emerging technologies and novel drug delivery devices.** The lab is led by **Professor Dimitrios Lamprou**, a leading expert in pharmaceutical technologies known for his significant contributions to 3D printing, microfluidics, and nanofibers, **with over 150 peer-reviewed publications**.
## What are engineered nanoparticles?
Nanotechnology gained prominence after Richard P. Feynman’s 1959 famous lecture, **“There’s plenty of room at the bottom”.1** However, the use of nanoparticles can be traced back to ancient times, as seen in the Romans’ incorporation of nanoparticles into glass manufacturing in the fourth century AD. The Lycurgus cup, an artifact from this period, notably displayed distinctive color changes under various lighting conditions due to the integration of nano-glass particles.2
Richard P Feynman 1959
Lycurgus cup in two types of lighting green and opaque when lit from the outside and red and translucent when lit from the inside This change is due to the phenomena of absorption and diffusion of light in interaction with metal nanoparticles decorating the cup
In modern times, **nanotechnology has developed into a comprehensive scientific discipline with diverse applications spanning multiple industries**. From water purification and information technologies to drug development, environmental solutions, and the creation of robust yet lightweight materials, nanotechnology has emerged as a pivotal player.3,4
The fundamental units of nanotechnology are nanoparticles, defined as small particles ranging from 10 nm to 1000 nm in size. **Engineered nanoparticles, specifically designed with dimensions under 100 nm, play a crucial role in manipulating materials at the molecular and atomic levels**, demonstrating significant chemical, structural, electrical, biological and mechanical characteristics**.** They are classified into categories including ceramic, carbon-based, semiconductor, metal, lipid-based and polymeric nanoparticles.
## What makes engineered nanoparticles promising in nanomedicine?
**Engineered nanoparticles hold promise for various nanotechnology applications in medicine, including in-vivo and in-vitro diagnosis, drug delivery, and production of biocompatible materials**. They are characterized by their **high mass-to-surface area ratio**, ability to adsorb and carry compounds, and **quantum properties**.5,6
These characteristics can benefit the [**drug delivery** field](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-manufacturing-sustainable-nanomedicines/), as its primary objective is to **enhance the specificity of drug targeting**, **improve safety and biocompatibility**, and **reduce toxicity** while **maintaining therapeutic effects**. Nanoparticles with dimensions less than 100 nm are considered **excellent drug carriers** due to their unique biological and physiological properties, allowing them to **cross tissue and cell barriers effectively**.7
Engineered nanoparticles also exhibit a **higher likelihood of cellular uptake** due to their **larger surface area**, **enabling increased protein loading**. The interaction of NPs with biological substances results in the formation of a “protein corona,” enhancing nanocarriers’ uptake by the reticuloendothelial system. This protein corona can serve as a functional carrier for targeted drug delivery, improving poorly soluble drug uptake, directing drugs to specific locations, and enhancing drug bioavailability.8
Overall, engineered nanoparticle applications in nanomedicine have been progressing recently, particularly in controlled drug delivery, nucleic acid-based treatment, cancer cell targeting, angiogenesis inhibition, and inflammation control.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/04/engineered-nanoparticle-applications.png)Figure 1 Examples of engineered nanoparticle applications 9
## How are engineered nanoparticles traditionally produced
**The success of nanoparticles as drug carriers** and in nanomedicine applications **depends on a number of crucial factors**, including NP fabrication strategies, **physical properties**, **drug loading efficiencies**, **drug release potential**, and especially the **carrier’s toxicity**.
Lipid-based nanoparticles exhibit low toxicity in in-vivo experiments. They can carry both hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules, leading to prolonged half-life and controlled drug release. **Here, we focus on two main classes of lipid-based nanoparticles: liposomes and solid lipid nanoparticles.**
### *Liposomes*
A liposome is **a microsphere lipid** constructed from **one or multiple phospholipid bilayers**, closely **mirroring the structure of cell membranes**. The liposome preparation process consists of three main stages: preparing aqueous and lipid phases, primary processing with lipids, and optional secondary processing steps. Most methods involve dissolving phospholipids in an organic solvent, with subsequent removal of the solvent through evaporation—a critical step in liposome formation. **Two straightforward** [**methods of liposome synthesis**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/) **are film hydration and solvent injection**.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/04/film-hydration-technique.png)Figure 2 Film hydration technique 10
Figure 3 Film hydration technique10
**Liposomes** generated through **film hydration** tend to be **polydisperse**. Parameters like the duration of rotary evaporation, mixing speed, and temperature after hydration affect liposome quality, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring.10,11
The **major factors** to consider for use of the **solvent injection method** are the **temperature** during injection and the **injection rate**. These factors will **affect the size, shape, and polydispersity of the liposomes** produced. The solvent injection method involves certain challenges, with continuous exposure of therapeutic substances to high temperatures and organic solvents affecting liposomal product stability and safety.
**This results in high polydispersity and a non-homogeneous formulation.12**
### *Solid Lipid Nanoparticles*
[**Solid lipid nanoparticles** (SLN)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/) have emerged as a **promising alternative to other lipid formulations** like liposomes or polymeric nanoparticles. These **spherical colloidal particles**, ranging from 10 to 1000 nm in size, **offer controlled drug release** due to limited drug mobility in the solid lipid. SLNs provide advantages such as targeted drug delivery, controlled release, increased stability, scalability in production, and avoidance of organic solvents. Comprising a solid lipid core in an aqueous medium with a surfactant, SLNs use different lipids (steroids, fatty acids, triglycerides, etc.) and require stabilizing agents like surfactants or emulsifiers. The drug insertion process depends on drug hydrophobicity, solid lipid category, and polymeric alterations in the lipid. **Production techniques include high-pressure homogenization, solvent evaporation, ultrasonication, hot homogenization, microemulsion, and others.13,14**
Figure 4 Solid Nanoparticle structure
### Table: comparison of the different manufacturing methods used for polymeric NPs and lipid-based NPs
Nanoparticles Type Manufacturing Method Advantages Disadvantages Lipid formulationFilm hydration– Established method
– Understood method– High consuming of the organic solvents
– High PDI
– Lack of reproducibility
– Need for additional downsizing step
– Difficulties in scaling-upLipid formulation Solvent injection – Simple and fast
– Scaling-up possibility – Exposing to organic solvent
– High PDI
– Stability problems Lipid formulation Extrusion – Uniform and homogenous formulation – Possible clogging of the membrane pores.
– Difficulties in scaling-up Lipid formulation High pressure homogenization – Scaling-up possibility
– Uniform formulation – High energy consumption
– Multiple steps
– Bulky system Lipid formulation Microemulsion – Small particle size
– Homogenous formulation – Difficulty in removing the excess water
– Use high concentration of surfactants
Nanoparticles Type Manufacturing Method Advantages Disadvantages PolymericEmulsification-salting out– Avoids surfactants and chlorinated solvents– Need for purification steps
– Encapsulate lipophilic drugs onlyPolymericEmulsification solvent diffusion– Scaling-up possibility
– Batch-to-batch reproducibility– The possible diffusion of the hydrophilic drug into the aqueous phase
– The need to eliminate high volume of aqueous phase from the colloidal dispersionPolymericEmulsification- evaporation– Simple and versatile– Risk of nanodroplets coalescence during the evaporation process
– Time consumingPolymericDialysis– Effective and simple method
– Produce polymeric nanoparticles with narrow distribution– Time consuming
– Use of high amount of dialyzing medium, which stimulate the premature release of NPs contentPolymericNonparticipation– Simple and established method
– Use low concentrations of surfactant– Restricted for lipophilic drugs
– Low polymer concentration obtained## How does microfluidics enhance the properties of engineered nanoparticles
The principal innovation of **microfluidics** is the ability to transfer the traditional bulk technique to microscale fluidic chips. Solvents can be mixed within microchannels by a pumping system with continuous laminar flow. This type of flow offers **high mixing quality** and **enhances the performance of microscale devices**. The ability to **adjust the flow rate ratio (FRR) and total flow rate (TFR)** allows for **continuous production** of monodisperse and homogenous engineered nanoparticles.
[**Fluigent’s pressure-driven controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) **and** [**flow sensors**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) enable this [**high stability**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) **and** [**fast response**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/) in fluid flow, which is highly challenging to achieve with traditional pumping methods like peristaltic or syringe pumps. Overall, this method offers **high reproducibility** and **low batch-to-batch variations**. In addition, the method’s versatility makes the encapsulation process faster while keeping encapsulation efficiency high.
**Microfluidics offers a fast, simple, single-step technique** for liposome manufacturing, but challenges for large-scale production currently hinder its wide-scale implementation due to high costs.15,16
Figure 5 Schematic presentation of liposomes production using a microfluidic approach
Most microfluidics-based solid lipid nanoparticle manufacturing follows a similar procedure involving dissolving lipids and drugs in an organic solvent, which is then introduced into the microfluidic device alongside an aqueous phase with a surfactant. Control over lipid-to-drug concentration, flow rate, and velocity influences the final nanocarrier characteristics.
**Solid lipid nanoparticles** produced by microfluidic processes have **smaller particle sizes, better homogeneity, and higher encapsulation efficiency** compared to bulk methods. In addition, cytotoxic studies demonstrate potent anti-proliferative effects of microfluidic SLNs in cancer cell lines.
However, research on microfluidic-produced SLNs is limited, and challenges exist, particularly with regard to the material used for microfluidic chips, with PDMS-based chips being sensitive to organic solutions.17
## **Conclusion**
In this paper highlight, we presented the promise and challenges of **microfluidics technology for the design and formulation of nanomedicines**. While traditional methods face limitations in producing **small engineered nanoparticles** with desirable characteristics, microfluidic systems offer a one-step, controllable process with improved outcomes.
Comparative studies have shown that nanocarriers produced by microfluidics exhibit superior properties. Future advancements in microfluidic systems, combined with complementary tools like process analytical technology and molecular imaging technologies, are expected to optimize NP production and expand their medical applications.
**Microfluidics holds promise for shaping the future of engineered nanoparticle research and development.**
[Discover the detailed protocol for liposome production using single emulsion device RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
[Learn more about solid lipid nanoparticle production using microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Liposome Production Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Giant Unilamellar Vesicles (GUVs) Production using Microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/giant-unilamellar-vesicles-production/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
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- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics for vaccine development Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-for-vaccines-research-and-development/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [
### Webinar – Drug encapsulation in biocompatible microparticles for drug delivery
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-drug-encapsulation/)
- [
### Webinar – Microfluidics in the manufacturing of sustainable nanomedicines
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-manufacturing-sustainable-nanomedicines/)
## References
(1) Shirai, Y.; Osgood, A.J.; Zhao, Y.; Yao, Y.; Saudan, L.; Yang, H.; Yu-Hung, C.; Alemany, L.B.; Sasaki, T.; Morin, J.-F. Surface-rolling molecules. J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2006, 128, 4854–4864.
(2) Bayda, S.; Adeel, M.; Tuccinardi, T.; Cordani, M.; Rizzolio, F. The History of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology: From Chemical-Physical Applications to Nanomedicine. Molecules 2019, 25, 112. Schoenmaker L, et al. mRNA-lipid nanoparticle COVID-19 vaccines: structure and stability. Int Pharm. 2021;601: 120586 .
(3) Grobert, N.; Hutton, D. Nanoscience and nanotechnologies: Opportunities and uncertainties. Lond. R. Soc. R. Acad. Eng. Rep.2004, 46, 618.
(4) Thiruvengadam, M.; Rajakumar, G.; Chung, I.M. Nanotechnology: Current uses and future applications in the food industry.3 Biotech 2018, 8, 74.
(5) Duncan, R. The dawning era of polymer therapeutics. Nat. Rev. Drug Discov. 2003, 2, 347–360.
(6) De Jong, W.H.; Borm, P.J. Drug delivery and nanoparticles:applications and hazards. Int. J. Nanomed. 2008, 3, 133–149.
(7) LaVan, D.A.; McGuire, T.; Langer, R. Small-scale systems for in vivo drug delivery. Nat. Biotechnol. 2003, 21, 1184–1191.
(8) Nel, A.E.; Mädler, L.; Velegol, D.; Xia, T.; Hoek, E.M.; Somasundaran, P.; Klaessig, F.; Castranova, V.; Thompson, M. Understanding biophysicochemical interactions at the nano-bio interface. Nat. Mater. 2009, 8, 543–557.
(9) Mitchell, M.J., Billingsley, M.M., Haley, R.M. et al. Engineering precision nanoparticles for drug delivery. Nat Rev Drug Discov 20, 101–124 (2021).
(10) Jaradat, E.; Weaver, E.; Meziane, A.; Lamprou, D. A. Microfluidics Technology for the Design and Formulation of Nanomedicines. Nanomaterials 2021, 11 (12), 3440.
(11) Alam, S.; Mattern-Schain, S.; Best, M. Targeting and triggered release using lipid-based supramolecular assemblies as medicinal nanocarriers. In Comprehensive Supramolecular Chemistry II; Elsevier: Oxford, UK, 2017; pp. 329–364.
(12) Maherani, B.; Arab-Tehrany, E.; Mozafari, M.R.; Gaiani, C.; Linder, M. Liposomes: A review of manufacturing techniques and targeting strategies. Curr. Nanosci. 2011, 7, 436–452.
(13) Mehnert, W.; Mäder, K. Solid lipid nanoparticles: Production, characterization and applications. Adv. Drug Deliv. Rev. 2001, 47,165–196.
(14) Uner, M.; Yener, G. Importance of solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) in various administration routes and future perspectives. Int. J.Nanomed. 2007, 2, 289–300.
(15) Weaver, E.; Uddin, S.; Cole, D.K.; Hooker, A.; Lamprou, D.A. The Present and Future Role of Microfluidics for Protein and Peptide-Based Therapeutics and Diagnostics. Appl. Sci. 2021, 11, 4109.
(16) Guimarães Sá Correia, M.; Briuglia, M.L.; Niosi, F.; Lamprou, D.A. Microfluidic manufacturing of phospholipid nanoparticles: Stability, encapsulation efficacy, and drug release. Int. J. Pharm. 2017, 516, 91–99.
(17) Arduino, I.; Liu, Z.; Rahikkala, A.; Figueiredo, P.; Correia, A.; Cutrignelli, A.; Denora, N.; Santos, H.A. Preparation of cetylpalmitate-based PEGylated solid lipid nanoparticles by microfluidic technique. Acta Biomater. 2021, 121, 566–578.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Article Reviews
---
### [Emulating the chondrocyte microenvironment using multi-directional mechanical stimulation in a cartilage-on-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mechanical-stimulation-in-a-cartilage-on-chip/)
**Published:** October 17, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
Carlo Alberto Paggi, Jan Hendricks, Marcel Karperien and Séverine Le Gac
*Lab on Chip*, 2022, **22** (DOI: 10.1039/d1lc01069g)
[Read the article](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2022/lc/d1lc01069g)
## Introduction
Mechanical stimulation of chondrocytes plays essential roles in the homeostasis of cartilages and arthritic conditions. The knee, devoid of conventional transport systems like blood vessels and nerves, relies on **mechanical stimulation** as the principal mediator for intercellular communication. Within this unique environment, signaling molecules and nutrients navigate through load-induced extracellular fluid flow.
### Layers of Defense: Interstitial and Pericellular Matrices
The **cartilage structure** is predominantly composed of the **interstitial matrix**, adept at **absorbing compressive** and **sliding forces** encountered during movement. Chondrocytes, nestled within a softer pericellular matrix, find **protection from external forces** exerted on the interstitial layer. This two-layered defense mechanism allows chondrocytes to sense extracellular matrix deformation during joint movement.
### Organ-on-Chip Models with Mechanical Ingenuity
To explore the impact of mechanical stimulation, **organ-on-chip join models** have been developed **incorporating a mechanical actuation unit**.
Paggi et al. introduce a cutting-edge **cartilage-on-chip platform capable of orchestrating** **both compressive** and **multi-directional mechanical stimulations** on chondrocyte-laden hydrogels. This innovative setup mimics the diverse loading scenarios experienced by chondrocytes during joint movement.
In their groundbreaking study, Paggi *et al*. shed light on the paramount **importance of** [applying precise mechanical stimulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/how-to-reproduce-active-biomimetic-stimulation-in-vitro/)
The research not only emphasizes the nuanced regulation of chondrocytes under different loading conditions but also stresses the need to **faithfully** [replicate the native microenvironment.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/) The **production of a native pericellular matrix** emerges as a key factor in faithfully reproducing the intricate tapestry of cartilage physiology.
This exploration into the world of mechanical stimulation and its profound impact on cartilage dynamics paves the way for a deeper understanding of joint health and opens avenues for innovative therapeutic interventions.
## Experimental procedure
The platform is composed of a central cell culture chamber caught in between a perfusion channel and a mechanical actuation unit. The actuation unit is made of a 50µm thick **PDMS membrane actuated by three individual chambers** connected to each other.
Cells are encapsulated within an agarose hydrogel in the central chamber and can be **mechanically stimulated by the deflection of the PDMS membrane**. Pressure is generated using Fluigent positive[ pressure ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)controller MFCS-EZ. When the same positive pressure is applied in the three actuation chambers, the compression is homogeneous.
Different deformations patterns can be obtained using a dedicated sequence of positive and negative pressures in the different actuation chambers, giving rise to a multi-directional mechanical stimulation (mdms).
This mdms pattern was shown to consist of a combination of compressive and shear forces, and is reminiscent of a waveform of mechanical stimulation, mimicking the rolling motion of two cartilage surfaces.
In this figure, the cartilage-on-chip design is described. It is compared to a knee joint (a)) and the main features of the device are higlighted in b). In c) picture food dyes are used for visualization purposes: the actuation unit is in blue, the cell-hydrogel chamber is in red and the perfusion channel is in yellow.
Finally, in d) and e), multi-directional mechanical stimulations are depicted for a knee joint during motion and fort the organ-on-chip join device filled in with human chondrocytes in agarose (blue arrows depict compression and green arrows shear strain).
*Cartilage-on-chip design (from Paggi et al. 2022)*
## Results
Chondrocytes embedded in agarose hydrogel within the device displayed a pro-inflammatory response (cytokine release) which was further amplified by mechanical actuation. Exposure to mechanical stimulation and especially to an mdms pattern was found to have an **impact on gene expression of chondrocytes markers**.
Remarkably, the production of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs), one of the main components of native cartilage ECM, was significantly increased after 15 days of on-chip culture and 14 days of mechanical stimulation.
A thin pericellular matrix shell (1–5 μm) surrounding the chondrocytes as well as an interstitial matrix, both reminiscent of the *in vivo* situation, were deposited. Matrix deposition was highest in chips exposed to mdms stimulation.
Finally, **mechanical cues enhanced the production of essential cartilage ECM markers, such as aggrecan, collagen II and collagen VI, a marker for the pericellular matrix around the chondrocytes.**
Both mechanical stimulation options promote the production of extracellular matrix by the chondrocytes.
Pericellular matrix production around each individual cell was comparable for both mechanical stimulation strategies (indicated by the blue ring shown on histology sections).
However, MDMS was observed to significantly **enhance the production and distribution of the interstitial matrix** throughout the entire tissue, as evidenced by the consistent blue coloration.
Mechanical stimulation of the chondrocytes thereby allows emulating the native articular cartilage microenvironment, with a clear advantage of mdms stimuli.
**Effect of mechanical stimulation (compressive forces only or multi-directional mechanical stimulation) on chondrocyte functions within the platform**
## Conclusion
Using a custom-built **cartilage-on-chip platform** coupled to **F**[luigent MFCS](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) **pressure controllers which provide excellent control on the applied pressure**, immediate switching time response and offers a user-friendly and programmable interface, the authors were able to accurately apply a variety of mechanical forces on cells embedded within an agarose hydrogel.
They have demonstrated **how mechanical stimulation of the chondrocytes can help to reproduce the native articular cartilage microenvironment**, with an ever more pronounced benefit of multi-directional mechanical stimuli than homogeneous compression, in their platform. Altogether this research article highlights the importance of **imposing appropriate mechanical cues to emulate *in vitro* the chondrocyte microenvironment**.
[Read the article](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2022/lc/d1lc01069g)
“For our application, where we include mechanical stimulation in organ-on-chip models, we love all Fluigent equipment which provides us full flexibility, fast response time, and user-friendliness. Support has been amazing as well to optimize and customize set-ups.”
**Dr Séverine Le Gac – Associate Professor & Head of Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research (AMBER) – University of Twente (The Netherlands)**
## Related Products
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### Mechanical Stimulation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/mechanical_stimulation_package/)
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### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
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### Microfluidic Push Pull controller
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
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### Webinar – Organ on a Chip Towards the Next Generation of Cell Culture Platforms
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-a-chip-and-cell-culture-platforms/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Article Reviews
---
### [An automated microfluidic platform for investigating mutation accumulation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mutation-accumulation/)
**Published:** October 17, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, CNRS Paper
Paper: Sipos, E. H.; Léty-Stefanska, A.; Denby Wilkes, C.; Soutourina, J.; Malloggi, F. Microfluidic Platform for Monitoring Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Mutation Accumulation. Lab Chip 2021, 21 (12), 2407–2416. [https://doi.org/10.1039/D1LC00086A](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2021/LC/D1LC00086A "https://doi.org/10.1039/D1LC00086A").
This paper, published in Lab-on-Chip (2021), is a joint research work between the *Interdisciplinary Laboratory on Nanoscale and Supramolecular Organization (LIONS)* and the *Institute for Integrative Biology of the Cell (I2BC)* from the CEA/CNRS/Université Paris-Saclay.
[The LIONS](https://iramis.cea.fr/en/Pisp/lions/index.html) investigates nanostructured materials for practical applications in energy, environment, and health. They focus on safe and eco-friendly synthesis methods using statistical physics and advanced instrumentation, generating new knowledge and fostering commercialization through patents, licenses, and start-ups. Through a microfluidic team led by Dr. [Florent Malloggi](https://iramis.cea.fr/en/Pisp/lions/Florent_Malloggi.html), their research work in microfluidics addresses a variety of challenges in fundamental chemistry, interface physics, and designing microfluidic chips for medical diagnostics and biotechnology.
[The I2BC](https://www.i2bc.paris-saclay.fr/equipe-genome-transcriptional-regulation/) carries out research in the integrative biology of the cell around four thematic axes (expression and evolution of genomes, cell compartment and transport, stress and adaptation, and metabolism and bioenergy). Led by Dr. [Julie Soutourina](https://www.i2bc.paris-saclay.fr/equipe-genome-transcriptional-regulation/), the Genome Transcriptional Regulation (GTR) team from I2BC studies how genes are regulated at a genomic level, with a focus on the Mediator complex’s role in RNA polymerase II regulation. They use yeast and human cells to understand how transcription and other nuclear processes like DNA repair are coordinated.
**The LIONS and I2BC teams combined their expertise** in microfluidics and genome understanding to **develop an automated microfluidic platform, including Fluigent’s Flow EZ, for investigating mutation accumulation (MA).** This approach highly reduced the experiment time and human intervention compared to traditional techniques.
## Why is studying DNA mutations fundamental for advancing our understanding of genetics and human health?
**Mutations** serve as the **driving force behind genetic diversity. They are** necessary for evolutionary processes and also linked to diseases, notably cancer. In fact, mutations can arise naturally as cells divide throughout a person’s life. It is believed that a few dozen mutations occur during each cell division when DNA replicates.
On the other hand, **DNA can undergo changes** due to environmental factors, such as exposure to UV radiation, smoking, asbestos, or specific viruses. Therefore, it is vital to understand how mutations occur on a genomic scale.1,2 Nonetheless**, studying concealed mutation events** and their outcomes **presents a challenge**, as natural selection often obscures them from a biologists’ view.
## How can we study hidden mutations and their effects without the impact of natural selection?
One of the main experiments used to study these mutation rates is **mutation accumulation**. It involves **the expansion of a cell population from a single common ancestor** under controlled conditions (such as in the presence of a molecule or when the ancestor’s genome contains a mutation of interest).
After several generations, a **single daughter cell is unbiasedly isolated** (creating a bottleneck population, thus minimizing natural selection), which then becomes the exclusive ancestor of a cell population that multiplies over numerous generations, continuing the cycle.
When complemented with high-throughput genome sequencing, this approach enables **the precise mapping of spontaneous mutations**, and the quantification of their occurrence rate, while also characterizing their effects on the phenotype.3,4
Figure 1 A typical mutation accumulation experiment An ancestral line is split into n MA lines which are then allowed to accumulate mutations for t generations5
## How are mutation accumulation experiments traditionally done?
Figure 2 MA principle on plates 100 single cell bottlenecks
As the mutation rates are typically very low, **classical mutation accumulation experiments** are **labor-intensive and time-consuming**. They involve growing cells through a significant number of repeated plating on agar plates and introducing bottlenecks by randomly selecting a single colony at each step, a process that takes, for instance, two days for budding yeast at 30 °C.
This means that more than six months (and 800 Petri dishes) is required to achieve 100 single-cell bottlenecks in yeast mutation accumulation.
Additionally, the **human intervention** every 48 hours (the time it takes for individual yeast colonies to form) **introduces bias**, as the choice of a colony may not be entirely random and could be a non-random choice of mutants with higher fitness.
Also, human intervention can alter the cell growth environment by introducing **bacterial or fungal contamination**.
## How can microfluidics automate mutation accumulation experiments?
Since its emergence in the early 1990s, **microfluidics** has **automated laboratory experiments**, offering advantages like high throughput, minimal material consumption, reduced cross-contamination, and small sample requirements.6
With this perspective, the researchers from LIONS and I2BC developed an automated microfluidic-based platform for mutation accumulation experiments based on budding yeast over many generations inside a specific microfluidic device.
Coupled with high-throughput sequencing, this approach **simplifies and accelerates the process of measuring mutational profiles** at the genome level with minimal human intervention.
Figure 3 MA principle with the microfluidic approach
## How to set up a microfluidic platform for mutation accumulation
First, the cells chosen for the study were yeast *Saccharomyces cerevisiae* as they are an excellent unicellular eukaryotic model. In addition, they possess a compact genome and a short generation time compared to human cells.
The strategy **behind the microfluidic device is based on linear arrays of culture chambers** where yeast populations grow for many generations. **A narrow channel acts as a bottleneck**, allowing only one cell to pass to a neighboring chamber. This single daughter cell then replicates until it occupies the entirety of the second chamber.
Afterward, another single daughter cell proceeds to the following chamber, and this cycle continues. This setup mimics the single colony-forming units in manual experiments. **In one microfluidic device, 8 parallel channels enable 8 MA lines simultaneously**.
To maintain growth for extended periods, nutrient channels connected by small diffusion channels are incorporated into the design, **with Fluigent’s pressure-driven controller** [**FlowEZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) **and** [**FlowUnit**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) **regulating nutrient flow (8 µL/min) into the device**.
Yeast growth was monitored using light microscopy, and after growth, yeast cells were collected for genome sequencing. To validate this microfluidic approach, the accumulation of mutations was done on **two different genetic backgrounds**, a wild-type strain and a base-excision DNA repair mutant characterized by a well-defined mutational profile.
Figure 4 Description of the microfluidic platform
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Proof of concept: Enhancing mutation accumulation experiments with minimal human intervention and time.
Through time-lapse imaging, it is possible to precisly follow the cell divisions and growth of yeast within the microfluidic device and their random movement into the following chambers. When a yeast cell reached a new chamber, it endured division and took over the chamber as demonstrated in the video, thus confirming **the efficiency of the chip design**.
The **stable and precise nutrient flow,** set up through the **Flow EZ and Flow Unit,** ensured **long-term cell culturing.**
Figure 5 Time lapse images of sequential yeast growth in the microfluidic platform
The high-throughput genome sequencing results also confirmed that **the microfluidic device successfully detected the specific mutational signature** and **enabled accumulation of mutation** in a way comparable to the classical method *(figure 6)*.
Figure 6 Comparable mutation accumulation on plates and microfluidic chip
*Yeast division and colonisation of the microfluidic chamber.*
This approach presents **several advantages** compared to the classical mutation accumulation method:
- **Reducing time and number of steps**, which traditionnaly involves 800 Petri dishes and frequent human intervention over a period of more than 6 months. A single microfluidic chip with up to 8 mutation accumulation lines running in parallel required 3 months and minimal intervention, typically once every two weeks, to ensure the device’s proper functioning.
- **Automating the hand-picking step** of a single colony, thus eliminating the bias associated with human intervention and consequent contaminations.
- **Providing a controlled growth environment** in terms of temperature, and flow of nutrients.
## Conclusion
In this paper highlight, **E.Sipos *et al.*, from the LIONS and I2BC research groups (CEA-CNRS-Université Paris-Saclay)**, developed **a microfluidic device** that **streamlined mutation accumulation experiments**, reducing the time required from over 6 months to 1-4.5 months. It allows parallel analysis of multiple yeast strains, facilitating unbiased genome-wide mutational process comparisons.
The device holds **promise** for **identifying mutagenic compounds** and discovering **new therapeutic targets**. It may also help in **developing human cell culture systems** to replicate mutation accumulation in diseases like cancer.
[Learn more about the advantages of microfluidics for cell biology.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/)
## Related products
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### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
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### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
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### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
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### Microfluidic Size Cell Sorting Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/)
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### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more
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## Related Resources
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Micropipette aspiration of cells and tissues
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Prostate Organoid Culture in Microbeads
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## References
- (1) P. L. Foster, *in Methods in Enzymology: DNA Repair*, Part B, **2006**, vol. 409, pp. 195–213.
- (2) A. Frenoy and S. Bonhoeffer, *PLoS Biol.*, **2018**, 16, e2005056.
- (3) J. E. Barrick and R. E. Lenski, *Nat. Rev. Genet.*, **2013**, 14,827–839.
- (4) V. Katju and U. Bergthorsson, *Genome Biol. Evol.*, **2019**, 11,136–165
- (5) D.L. Halligan andP.D. Keightley, *Annu. Rev. Ecol. Evol. Syst.* **2009**, *40* (1), 151–172.
- (6) L. Y. Yeo, H. C. Chang, P. P. Y. Chan and J. R. Friend, *Small,***2011**, 7, 12–48.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Article Reviews
---
### [FlowBoard and FLOW UNIT+ User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flow-rate-platform-and-flow-unit-user-manual/)
**Published:** September 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Microfluidics for Alginate Microbeads Production - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/microfluidics-for-alginate-microbeads-production-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [Microfluidic Valves : SMART CONTROL and AUTOMATION of your fluidic path - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valves-smart-control-and-automation-of-your-fluidic-path-fluigent/)
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**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Catégories de ressource:** Company videos
---
### [ARIA Tutorial Episode 7 : Software Presentation [automated cell perfusion] - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-7-software-presentation-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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[](https://www.youtube.com/c/Fluigent)
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---
### [ARIA Tutorial Episode 5 : Perform A Calibration With ARIA [automated cell perfusion] - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-5-perform-a-calibration-with-aria-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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[](https://www.youtube.com/c/Fluigent)
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---
### [ARIA Tutorial Episode 6 : Global Handling Of ARIA [automated cell perfusion] - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-6-global-handling-of-aria-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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[](https://www.youtube.com/c/Fluigent)
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---
### [ARIA Tutorial Episode 4 : How To Use ARIA Manually [automated cell perfusion] - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-4-how-to-use-aria-manually-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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[](https://www.youtube.com/c/Fluigent)
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---
### [ARIA Tutorial Episode 3 : How To Fill Up The Reservoirs [automated cell perfusion] - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-3-how-to-fill-up-the-reservoirs-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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[](https://www.youtube.com/c/Fluigent)
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---
### [ARIA Tutorial Episode 2 : Connect To Set The Fluidic Path [automated cell perfusion] - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-2-connect-to-set-the-fluidic-path-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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[](https://www.youtube.com/c/Fluigent)
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### [ARIA Tutorial Episode 1 : How To Plug An ARIA [automated cell perfusion] - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-1-how-to-plug-an-aria-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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[](https://www.youtube.com/c/Fluigent)
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---
### [Flow EZ Tutorial Episode 2 : Insert in my setup - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorial-episode-2-insert-in-my-setup-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [Flow EZ Tutorial Episode 1 : Getting started - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorial-episode-1-getting-started-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 3 : Add a Flow EZ - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-3-add-a-flow-ez-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 4 : Apply a pressure order - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-4-apply-a-pressure-order-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 5: Disconnect a Flow EZ - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-5-disconnect-a-flow-ez-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 6: Add my FLOW UNIT - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-6-add-my-flow-unit-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 7: Use the P=0 button - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-7-use-the-p0-button-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [Flow EZ Tutorials Episode 8: Switch it off - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/flow-ez-tutorials-episode-8-switch-it-off-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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### [MICROFLUIDICS in DROPLET DIGITAL PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/fluigent-expertise/microfluidics-in-droplet-digital-pcr/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Catégories de ressource:** Expertise videos
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### [Modular pressure & flow control platform - unboxing & setup](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/modular-pressure-flow-control-platform-unboxing-setup/)
**Published:** July 7, 2022
**Author:**
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**Catégories de ressource:** Videos
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### [OxyGEN SOFTWARE | The RESULT of 15 YEARS of EXPERIENCE in FLUID MANAGEMENT](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/oxygen-software-the-result-of-15-years-of-experience-in-fluid-management/)
**Published:** January 19, 2023
**Author:**
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**Catégories de ressource:** Product presentation videos
---
### [PNEUMATIC VALVE CONTROLLER: How to do multiple and parallel pressurization [P-SWITCH] - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/pneumatic-valve-controller-how-to-do-multiple-and-parallel-pressurization-p-switch-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Catégories de ressource:** Product presentation videos
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### [The NEW GENERATION of PRESSURE CONTROLLERS : LineUp series](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/the-new-generation-of-pressure-controllers-lineup-series/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Catégories de ressource:** Product presentation videos
---
### [TUBING and FITTINGS in MICROFLUIDICS - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/fluigent-expertise/tubing-and-fittings-in-microfluidics-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Catégories de ressource:** Expertise videos
---
### [RayDrop Tutorial episode 6: How To Change Nozzle ? - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-6-how-to-change-nozzle-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Catégories de ressource:** Tutorial videos
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### [RayDrop Tutorial episode 5: How To Clean the Chamber - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-5-how-to-clean-the-chamber-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Catégories de ressource:** Tutorial videos
---
### [RayDrop Tutorial episode 4: How To Clean the Nozzle (3/3) - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-4-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-3-3-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
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**Catégories de ressource:** Tutorial videos
---
### [RayDrop Tutorial episode 3: How To Clean the Nozzle (2/3) - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-3-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-2-3-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
**Author:**
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**Catégories de ressource:** Tutorial videos
---
### [RayDrop Tutorial episode 2: How To Clean the Nozzle (1/3) ? - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-2-how-to-clean-the-nozzle-1-3-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
**Author:**
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**Catégories de ressource:** Tutorial videos
---
### [RayDrop Tutorial episode 1: How To Fill the Raydrop ? - Fluigent](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/raydrop-tutorial-episode-1-how-to-fill-the-raydrop-fluigent/)
**Published:** October 12, 2022
**Author:**
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**Catégories de ressource:** Tutorial videos
---
### [Microfluidic Artificial Skin Platform for Sweat Study and Product Development](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/artificial-skin-platform/)
**Published:** July 26, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Paper From the Department of Mechanical Engineering of the Netherlands
Moonen, E.J.M., Ul Islam, T., Van Kemenade, S., Pelssers, E., Heikenfeld, J., Den Toonder, J.M.J., 2023. [A versatile artificial skin platform for sweat sensor development.](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2023/lc/d3lc00109a) Lab Chip 23, 2268–2275.
This article, published in *Lab On a Chip* 2024, is the result of a collaboration between the **Department of Mechanical Engineering** and the **Institute for Complex Molecular Systems** (ICMS) at Eindhoven University of Technology, the **Philips Research** (Royal Philips, High Tech Campus, AE Eindhoven) in the Netherlands, and the **Novel Devices Laboratory** (Biomedical Engineering Dept., Univ. of Cincinnati, Ohio, USA).
The Eindhoven University of Technology is divided into nine departments. The [Department of Mechanical Engineering](https://www.tue.nl/en/our-university/departments/mechanical-engineering) (ME) is one of them. It aims to conduct world-class research on key topics relevant to high-tech industries in the Netherlands, particularly in Brainport Eindhoven. ME provides an education and research program that balances fundamental and applied aspects, preparing engineers to meet future industry challenges.
## The Importance of Artificial Skin Platform Development
### The Potential of Sweat
The main function of sweat is to **thermoregulate** the body, lowering its temperature when it rises. This sweat is secreted by **sweat glands** (the average person having 1.6 and 5 million) distributed over different areas. There are two types of glands (**Figure 1)** :
- **Eccrine glands:** located all over the body except for the lips, nails, and certain genital areas.
- **Apocrine glands:** located only where there is hair. Due to their location, they are composed of a mixture of sweat, sebum, proteins, lipids, etc. 1
*Figure 1: Sweat glands localization.2*
Although the sweat excreted by these glands is **99% water**, it remains **rich in analytes**, making it ideal for **measuring biomarkers**. In fact, sweat analysis overcomes problems associated with traditional analysis methods, such as blood analysis which requires invasive sampling. Interest in **developing portable devices** for measuring sweat biomarkers has increased since the 1950s in **fields** like infectious diseases, immunology, neurology, psychiatry, endocrinology, and more.3
### What Are the Limits of Skin-Based Studies?
In order to develop **portable systems or wearable sweat patches** for measuring biomarker concentration, or even to test cosmetics such as deodorants or creams, *in vivo* or *ex vivo* skin-based studies are required.The skin is divided into three layers: the **epidermis, dermis, and hypodermi**s. Each layer is made up of cell types and structures specific to their roles (**Table 1**).
*Table 1: Characteristics of the three skin layers.4*
LayerStructureCell typesExtra cellular matrix components**Hypodermis** Blood vessels, nerves, hair folliclesAdipocytes, fibroblasts, endothelial cells, muscle cells Elastine, type I collagen **Dermis** Blood vessels, nerves, mechanoreceptors, appendagesFibroblasts, endothelial cells, Langherans cells, muscle cellsElastin, proteogylcans, type I, IV and VII collagens **Epidermis** Stratifie keratinized epiheliumKeratinocytes, melanocytes, merkel cells, Langherans cellsKeratin, type IV and VII collagensCurrently, most tests are performed on **human or animal skin**, but these methods have several drawbacks. For instance, *in vivo* or *ex vivo* tests can present various difficulties in terms of **potential risks for the donor and may be ethically challenging**. In addition, another major problem preventing the **reliability** and **reproducibility** of the results is the **intra- and inter-human variability**: skin and sweat differ according to zones, the donor age and activity (**see Figure 2**)4. For all these reasons, it was **essential to develop platforms** capable of providing reproducibility while mimicking skin characteristics with precision.
*Figure 2: Histological changes in young skin VS old skin.5*
## Models to Mimic Human Skin
There are several types of models that mimic human skin for the above purposes. These include:
1. **Cell culture:** air-liquid interface culture of keratinocytes on a dermal substitute to reconstitute the stratified layers of the skin.6 Culture can also result in the development of a single layer, known as 2D culture, which differs from the first stratified layer method, known as 3D culture (**Table 2**).
*Figure 3: Optical microscopy of human or artificial skin.6*
*Table 2: Comparison of 2D and 3D cultures for skin models.4*
2D Culture3D CultureSingle or co-cultured monolayers Multilayered cultures reliminary studies on drug-cell interactionStudies on complex drug-tissue interactionsNo air-liquid interfaceAir-liquid interfaceShort cultivation times (days)Long cultivation times (weeks)Low costHigh cost
2\. **3D bioprinting:** use of biomaterials to reproduce a model equivalent to its counterpart for various applications (**Figure 4**).5
3\. **Microfluidics:** This allows researchers to mimick skin with real cells for drug testing, known as skin-on-a-chip studies (**Figure 5**). Using microfluidics, users can **imitate** the topology of skin with sweat mechanisms. This technology can be modulated to mimic both mature and young skin, as well as all skin topologies, for optimal product development testing.
*Figure 4: Process of 3D bioprinting human equivalent skin models (from 5*).
*Figure 5: Skin-on-chip by addition of skin cells.7*
## Goal of the Study
To develop **wearable sweat sensing patches,** it’s critical to test them on skin with and without sweat. Previous studies have shown **large inter-human variability** in sweat and skin type. Hence, researchers at the Department of Mechanical Engineering planned on creating an artificial skin platform to avoid this variability by developing a stable, realistic, and adaptable platform.
In this paper, a microfluidic design was created to mimic skin perspiration using Fluigent’s [flow controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) and [flow meter](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/). The device precisely controlled the generation of perspiration into the platform according to the skin and human type.
## Mimicking of Human Skin in a 3-Layer Platform
To improve medical and cosmetic research, a platform was designed to mimic human skin. This artificial skin platform is composed of three layers:
- 1. **Reservoir layer:** composed of several hexagonal chambers grouped together with channels to form different sections. Each section can be fed differently. The transparent resin layer was printed via Form SLA (Formlabs).
- 2. **Membrane layer:** features high hydrodynamic resistance to create a constant flow. The membrane was made of hydrophilic polycarbonate, and contained pores.
- 3. **Skin layer:** a layer of silicone rubber (Shore 15 – Resion Resin Technologies) molded onto the actual skin surface to be imitated.
The [Fluigent MFCS series controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) pressurized the liquid-containing tube which is connected to the reservoir layer sections via the [Flow Unit XS flowmeter](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) to precisely control liquid delivery within the platform. This precise control **avoids pore obstruction** and **imitates sweat**.
Artificial sweat pores were created using laser-guided molybdenum wires. They have a diameter of 60 µm, which is **equivalent to natural pores** from 50 to 80 µm.
*Figure 6: Schematic overview of the working principle of the artificial skin platform. P1 = pressure applied by the pressure controller, P0 = hydrostatic pressure due to the height difference between the top of the skin layer and the meniscus in the storage tube, Rf = hydrodynamic resistance of flow sensor, Rm = hydrodynamic resistance of open pores in membrane and Rs = hydrodynamic resistance of artificial sweat pores*.
**Several parameter**s of human sweating were tested such as **wetting properties, pulsed sweat excretion** with active and inactive periods, and **large ranges of sweat delivery** to verify the platform capacities.
The artificial skin platform was adapted according to the sweating location, particularly in terms of **skin texture**, **wetting properties** and **sweat pore density** (**Figure 7**).
*Figure 7: Overview of the adaptable components of the artificial skin platform to mimic different targeted body locations (left = arm and right = finger)*.
## Partial Results: Artificial Skin Platform Permits Mimicking Human Perspiration
*Figure 8: Contact angle explanation.*8
The wetting properties of human and artificial skin were tested, and results were compared. This wetting property was studied by the contact angle measurements. The contact angle is defined as the **angle formed between the skin and the liquid droplet** (**Figure 8**).8
For human skin, the contact angle was measured on the skin of the arm or finger with either sweat or water. The results showed that there was a **difference in the contact angle between different locations**, with the contact angle being higher for the arm than for the finger. In addition, water or sweat secretion influences the contact angle, with a **decrease of about 25°** observed in the case of sweat versus water. These differences highlight the importance of considering wetting properties (**Figure 9**).
*Figure 9: Wetting properties of human skin by contact angle measurements.*
*Figure 10: Wetting properties of artificial skin by contact angle measurements.*
For artificial skin, the contact angle was measured for 1) clean skin and 2) skin with sebum. Natural skin is hydrophobic, but sebum secretion modifies the **skin into hydrophilic**, thus affecting the contact angle. In fact, “clean” skin is a characteristic of the one on the arm, whereas “sebum” skin presents characteristics close to the skin on the fingers. The **results are similar** to natural human skin, with a decrease in contact angle observed in the presence of sebum (**Figure 10**).
The study of droplet transpiration has shown that in sebaceous skin, **droplets spread along the skin**, whereas in clean skin, droplets don’t move. The behavior of sebum droplets is again like human skin (**Figure 11**).
*Figure 11: Visual qualification of dynamic wetting properties.*
The second part of the study involves checking the platform’s ability to secrete sweat correctly, based on the flowmeter and pressure controller’s ability to accurately control it.
The results of the analytical model, which was based on an equation between pressure and hydrodynamic resistance, have been correlated with experimental results to predict expected flow at set pressure (**Figure 12.A**).
The flow rate was increased in 50 nL/min steps from 0 to 950 nL/min, followed by decreasing steps, to test the response efficiency and stability of the flowmeter for the artificial skin platform. The result showed that the platform generated the required flow rates with a **stabilization time of less than 10 seconds**, thanks to the precision of MFCS and the Flow Unit (**Figure 12.B**).
The platform was then tested for its ability to mimic human glands. Recent studies explained that human sweat glands *in vivo* excrete sweat in a pulsed way, with active and inactive periods lasting a few minutes9. The results showed that it is possible to **reproduce these alternating periods of sweating and non-sweating** with the platform, pausing for one minute and stabilizing in less than 10 seconds (**Figure 12.C**).
*Figure 12: Overall dynamic flow behavior of artificial skin platform with 120 active sweat pores.*
Finally, the artificial skin platform was evaluated in terms of secreting the full range of human perspiration. This range extended from 0.1-1 nL/min/pore of sweat for individuals at rest to 1-20 nL/min/pore for people in intense activity. The results showed that the artificial **skin platform could cover the entire transpiration range**, from 100 nL/min (0.8 nL/min/pore) to 1000 nL/min (8nL/min/pore) (**Figure 13 and videos**).
*Figure 13: Vizualisation of droplet formation and flow through artificial skin.*
*Videos : Sweat secretion through the pores of the artificial platform at different sweat levels (left = 100 nL/min/pore, right = 500 nL/min/pore)*.
## Conclusion
In this paper, researchers from the **Philips Researc**h, the **Eindhoven University of Technology,** and the **University of Cincinnati** presented a microfluidic platform to mimic skin comportment that could facilitate the development of **wearable sweat sensing patches** for biomarker diagnostics. The platform successfully **mimicked the human perspiration variabilities** and integrates Fluigent’s pressure pump, MFCS series, and flow meter Flow Unit XS to precisely imitate the sequential excretion of sweat and its level of perspiration. All results demonstrated that the artificial skin platform has **wetting properties**, **skin topography** and **perspiration types** that make it a **potential platform for future innovation in this field.**
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Real-Time Monitoring Platform for Ocular Drug Delivery, Integrating Fluigent’s Flow EZ Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/monitoring-ocular-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Mimicking tumor microenvironment using a 3D microfluidic model to improve cancer investigations Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mimicking-tumor-microenvironment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
## References
1\. Moonen, E. J. M. *et al.* Wearable sweat sensing for prolonged, semicontinuous, and nonobtrusive health monitoring. *VIEW* **1**, 20200077 (2020).
2\. Berth-Jones, J. & Tebbs, V. M. Disorders of Sweat Glands. in *Atlas of Dermatology, Dermatopathology and Venereology* (eds. Smoller, B. & Bagherani, N.) 1–18 (Springer International Publishing, Cham, 2020). doi:10.1007/978-3-319-45134-3\_41-1.
3\. Brasier, N. & Eckstein, J. Sweat as a Source of Next-Generation Digital Biomarkers. *Digit. Biomark.* **3**, 155–165 (2019).
4\. Moniz, T., Costa Lima, S. A. & Reis, S. Human skin models: From healthy to disease‐mimetic systems; characteristics and applications. *Br. J. Pharmacol.* **177**, 4314–4329 (2020).
5\. Ansaf, R. *et al.* 3D bioprinting—a model for skin aging. *Regen. Biomater.* **10**, (2023).
6\. Brohem, C. A. *et al.* Artificial skin in perspective: concepts and applications. *Pigment Cell Melanoma Res.* **24**, 35–50 (2011).
7\. Fernandez-Carro, E. *et al.* Modeling an Optimal 3D Skin-on-Chip within Microfluidic Devices for Pharmacological Studies. *Pharmaceutics* **14**, 1417 (2022).
8\. Angle de contact: Définition, Sens et de l’équipement de mesure. https://www.linseis.com/fr/grandeurs-mesurees/angle-de-contact/.
9\. Chen, X., Gasecka, P., Formanek, F., Galey, J.-B. & Rigneault, H. In vivo single human sweat gland activity monitoring using coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering and two-photon excited auto-fluorescence microscopy. *Br. J. Dermatol.* **174**, (2015).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Drug-Loaded Liposome Preparation Using Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/drug-loaded-liposome-preparation/)
**Published:** May 22, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Paper From the Ca’Foscari University of Venice
Saorin, A.; Saorin, G.; Duzagac, F.; Parisse, P.; Cao, N.; Corona, G.; Cavarzerani, E.; Rizzolio, F. Microfluidic Production of Amiodarone Loaded Nanoparticles and Application in Drug Repositioning in Ovarian Cancer. *Sci Rep* **2024**, *14* (1), 6280.
This article results from the work of [the Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems](https://www.unive.it/pag/28233/) (Ca’Foscari University of Venice), which conducts interdisciplinary research across three main areas: nanosystems and nano-biomaterials for various applications (biomedical, sensory, environment, energy), sustainable chemistry for industry and the environment, and new technologies for studying cultural heritage products. With the diverse expertise of its staff, the department aims to address key challenges in these fields while collaborating with local businesses and industries.
## Ovarian Cancer and the Involvement of Fatty Acid Oxidation
### How Ovarian Cancer Is Defined
Ovarian cancer ranks as the third most prevalent gynecological cancer following cervical and uterine cancers. Despite its relatively lower occurrence, it holds the highest mortality rate among gynecological cancers and ranks fifth in terms of cancer-related deaths in women.
There are more than 30 different ovarian cancer types, with epithelial ovarian cancer comprising the majority (90%) (**Figure 1**). Among its subtypes, high-grade serous ovarian cancer is the most frequently diagnosed, accounting for 70% of cases. Typically detected at an advanced stage (**Figure 1**), it exhibits a dismal five-year survival rate of only 30%, caused by tardive diagnosis. 1,2
*Figure *1*: Stage distribution (%) for ovarian cancers.*2**
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/anoikis-mechanism.png)**Figure *2*: Anoikis mechanism and its involvement in metastasis *3.***
### Anoikis Resistance Via Fatty Acid Oxidation
The spread of epithelial ovarian cancer depends on tumor cells developing the capability to withstand anoikis, a process enabling them to survive and attach to metastatic sites in the peritoneal cavity or endure within ascites (**Figure 2**). Resistance to anoikis triggers a metabolic shift toward a preference for fatty acid oxidation, facilitated by the upregulation of a component of the carnitine palmitoyltransferase system (CPT).
CPT is responsible for transporting long-chain fatty acids across mitochondrial membranes, comprising CPT1, CPT2, and CACT (Carnitine AcylCarnitine Translocase) as presented below (**Figure 3**). While CPT2 and CACT are in the inner mitochondrial membrane, CPT1 resides in the outer membrane and is crucial for initiating fatty acid oxidation. It exists in three isoforms: CPT1A (liver form), CPT1B (muscle form) and CPT1C (brain form). Ovarian cancer cell lines have demonstrated dependency on CPT1A-mediated fatty acid oxidation for cell cycle progression, as its inactivation decreases ATP levels and induces cell cycle arrest, suppressing growth.
Therefore, targeting the upregulation of fatty acid oxidation, particularly through inhibition of CPT1A, holds promise as a potential therapeutic approach in the treatment of epithelial ovarian cancer.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/fatty-acid-oxidation.png)***Figure *3*: Involvement of CPT system in fatty acid oxidation.*4****
### Amiodarone as a Promising CPT1A Inhibitor
Amiodarone is already used in therapy as an antiarrhythmic agent. It was approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in 1985 for several diseases (such as atrial fibrillation and arrhythmia). Recently, preclinical studies suggested the potential of amiodarone as an anticancer agent, particularly in epithelial ovarian cancer. However, its repurposing is limited by significant toxicity, primarily due to its lipophilicity, leading to prolonged accumulation in various tissues. Given the importance of drug repurposing and the high toxicity of other proposed CPT1A inhibitors, there’s interest in developing delivery systems to minimize amiodarone’s off-target effects. Among these delivery systems, liposomes have shown efficacy as drug carriers.
## Liposomes as Efficient Nanocarriers for Drug Delivery
Liposomes are spherical vesicles composed of phospholipid bilayers. They can encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic active pharmaceutical ingredients (API), making them highly promising for drug delivery. The organization in vesicles and the encapsulation of molecules is due to lipid properties: hydrophobic tail and hydrophilic head. Hydrophobic tails cannot be in contact with the aqueous phase and consequently shape themselves in a vesicle. 5
*Figure 4: Simple liposome and lipid representations.*
**Figure *5*: Internalization of liposome.*6***
In addition, the surface modification of liposomes with moieties, like poly (ethylene glycol) (PEG), antibodies, or protein conjugates, enable targeted delivery, reducing the dosage needed and limiting delivery to non-essential areas. [In the case of drug delivery,](http://in%20the%20case%20of%20drug%20delivery,/) liposomes can be internalized in two ways: endocytosis or membrane fusion, as described in **Figure 5**. This approach facilitates a prolonged release of APIs.
The physical characteristics of liposomes, such as size, polydispersity index (PDI), and lamellarity, are influenced by lipid composition and the preparation method. Traditional methods like thin-film hydration and extrusion have limitations, including being time-consuming, having high batch-to-batch variation, and difficulties in scaling up. Microfluidics emerged as a promising technique for manufacturing liposomes, offering high-quality mixing and improving size control and homogeneity.
## Research Goals
In this study, researchers from the Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems (Ca’Foscari University of Venice) presented a detailed protocol for amiodarone-loaded liposome synthesis. They demonstrated the effects of amiodarone encapsulation in ovarian cancer cells and amiodarone’s efficacy as a CPT1A inhibitor.
Different parameters (flow rate ratio, temperature, etc.) were tested to measure the impact on liposome production (liposome size, size distribution, encapsulation efficacy, etc.) using a staggered herringbone mixer and Fluigent’s pressure controller (Flow EZ) to maintain a precise flow rate.
This study is the first to investigate amiodarone’s potential in ovarian cancer inhibition of CPT1A and load it into liposomes.
## How to Prepare a Microfluidic Setup for Monodisperse Liposome Preparation
A microfluidic setup was used to produce both empty and amiodarone-loaded liposomes, based on Doxil® formulation (HEPC: CHO: DSPE-PEG). The setup included two Fluigent pressure-driven pumps (Flow EZ – 7 bar), two flow controllers (Flow Units, Range XL), and a micromixer glass chip controlled by Oxygen, Fluigent’s software for protocol automation. The micromixer chip combined a co-flow and staggered herringbone structures, which help control the flow inside the chip with high precision.
To produce empty liposomes, the Doxil formulation, approved by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), was dissolved in a specific molar ratio in ethanol and mixed in the chip with Dulbecco’s Phosphate-Buffered Saline (DPBS). Following the same protocol, amiodarone-loaded liposomes were created by adding amiodarone to the organic phase as it is a hydrophobic molecule.
Various flow rate ratios and temperature conditions were tested, with different amiodarone concentrations for the liposomes. Samples collected were dialyzed overnight in DPBS to remove free molecules and ethanol. Additionally, a separation protocol involving centrifugation was followed to separate the liposomes from non-encapsulated amiodarone particles.
The liposome size was measured with DLS (Dynamic Light Scattering) and TEM (Transmission Electron Microscopy) techniques.
Different human ovarian cancer cells (A2780, Kuramochi, OVCAR-5, and SKOV3) were studied to evaluate the amiodarone and drug delivery systems effects. Cell splitting was performed at 70–80% confluency using trypsin, and cell morphology and growth were monitored daily under a microscope. Suspension cultures, mimicking anoikis-resistant cells, were obtained by coating plates with a Poly-HEMA solution. SKOV3 suspension cultures formed spheroids spontaneously, making them a suitable model for evaluating drug efficacy and penetration in ovarian cancer metastasis.
*Figure *6* Microfluidic setup for liposome preparation*
[
### Liposome Production Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Liposome tubing & fitting kit
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/kits/liposome-tubing-fitting-kit/)
## Testimonial
“One of the research group’s focuses was the study of ovarian cancer. Leveraging Fahriye Duzagac’s (PostDoc) previous experience and Asia Saorin’s (PhD student) freshly written review on ovarian cancer biomarkers, it was a natural progression to develop a project aimed at testing amiodarone as an inhibitor of CPT1A. However, the formulation developed using microfluidics was crucial in unlocking the drug’s full potential. This advancement was thanks to Gloria Saorin (PhD student), who was working with the Fluigent system for the production of liposomes. Thanks to the microfluidic approach it was possible to optimize particles production parameters with better control over them, using smaller amounts of formulants and drug i.e. saving time, money and allowing an improvement of the sustainability of the process.”
## Results: Enhanced Efficacy of Amiodarone Against Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Models Through Microfluidic Encapsulation
Before loading amiodarone, the microfluidic production process was optimized by studying the effects of temperature and flow rate ratios (FRR) on liposomes while assessing their long-term stability.
To find the best temperature and its impact on liposome size and lipid composition, different conditions were tested:
- RT\_RT: each phase reservoir was at room temperature.
- 63\_63: both phase reservoirs were heated at 63°C.
- 63\_RT: only the ethanol reservoir was heated at 63°C, the other one remained at room temperature.
TEM and DLS analysis showed that liposomes were bigger when reservoirs were both heated (**figures 7-8**). Liposomes were also bigger when both reservoirs were at RT and only the ethanol reservoir was heated. Among the temperature conditions tested, heating only the alcoholic solution reservoir (63\_RT) emerged as the most reproducible method based on the lipid yield (determined by H-NMR), avoiding flow instability and solvent evaporation.
*Figure *7*: Impact of temperature on liposome size.*
**Figure *8*: TEM images obtained for each tested temperature.**
After, the impact of the flow rate ratios (FRR) on liposome size was evaluated.
The FRR was varied (4:1, 3:1, 2:1, 1:1) while keeping the other studied parameters constant (total flow rate = 1 mL/min, temperature 63\_RT, lipids 10 mM). For instance, at TFR = 1 mL/min and FRR = 3:1, the flow rate was 750 µL/min for the aqueous phase and 250 µL/min for the organic phase. Analysis using DLS and TEM indicated that FRR values of 4:1, 3:1, and 2:1 yielded liposomes with favorable characteristics, with the optimal polydispersity index (PdI) observed at FRR 2:1. A decrease of the liposome size was observed with increasing FRR (**Figures 9-10**).
*Figure *9*: Impact of FRR on liposome size.*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/05/liposome-tem-images.png)*Figure *10*:TEM images of the obtained liposomes for each FRR.*
Following these initial characteristics, the appropriate microfluidic liposome production parameters were selected before encapsulating the amiodarone (**Table 1**).
*Table *1*: Parameters selected for amiodarone encapsulation in liposome*
Temperature 63\_RT TFR (Total Flow Rate) 1 mL/min FRR (Flow Rate Ratio) 3:1 Lipid concentration 10mM Amiodarone concentration between 5 and 10 mM
The encapsulation efficacy (EE) of amiodarone was calculated as follow:
With an amiodarone concentration of 5mM, EE was evaluated at 21 ±4 %, with the hypothesis that amiodarone is in the lipid bilayer of the liposomes as it is known for its insolubility and hydrophobic nature.
Next, the stability of amiodarone-loaded liposomes was measured after one month in storage at 4°C. Results presented a slight increase in the liposome diameter and a stabilization of PdI over time, proving their stability without any aggregations.
***Figure *11*: TEM images of the amiodarone-loaded liposomes for different concentrations of amiodarone.***
To check their internalization in ovarian cancer cells (A2780), the produced liposomes were stained by rhodamine B, a fluorescence dye. A total internalization of liposomes in the cytosol was observed, as confirmed by the red fluorescence coming from the cytosolic compartment of cells in **Figure 12**.
Finally, the cell viability rate was measured by the Presto Blue® test for suspension cells and by the CellTiter-Glo® Luminescence assay for adhesion cells. Produced by an FFR3:1, an amiodarone concentration of 5 mM, and a temperature of 63\_RT, amiodarone-loaded liposomes were effective in adhesion culture, reducing IC50 values for Kuramochi and OVCAR-5, while A2780 IC50s were like those of the free drug (**Figure 13**). However, they exhibited lower activity in suspension. Based on these results, liposomes could be therefore optimized for intravenous injections, rather than intraperitoneal injections, followed by an enhanced permeation and a retention effect accumulation in the cancer site.
**Figure *12*: Fluorescence microscopy of A2780 with liposomes labeled with rhodamine B (red).**
**Figure *13*: Concentration-viability plot of liposomes with amiodarone in adhesion and suspension culture.**
## Conclusion
In this paper, researchers from the Department of Molecular Sciences and Nanosystems (Ca’Foscari University of Venice) presented a microfluidic method for drug-loaded liposome production using [Fluigent’s liposome production pack](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/ "Fluigent’s liposome production pack"), including Flow EZs and Flow Units. It permits obtaining the desired size, an optimal size distribution, and a high drug content. The amiodarone liposomes were effective against epithelial ovarian cancer models, with a possible role in the inhibitory activity of CPT1A. Amiodarone showed promise in reducing cell viability in adhesion culture, although its effectiveness was lower in suspension cultures. Amiodarone particles became stronger with liposomes, and instead proved their capability to inhibit suspension culture growth. Further research, including *in vivo* studies, will be useful to fully evaluate the clinical potential of these drug delivery systems.
## Related Products
[
### Liposome Production Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Expertises and resources
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
## References
1\. Kossaï, M., Leary, A., Scoazec, J.-Y. & Genestie, C. Ovarian Cancer: A Heterogeneous Disease. *Pathobiol. J. Immunopathol. Mol. Cell. Biol.* **85**, 41–49 (2018).
2\. Torre, L. A. *et al.* Ovarian Cancer Statistics, 2018. *CA. Cancer J. Clin.* **68**, 284–296 (2018).
3\. Anoikis mechanism and its involvement in metastasis adapted to BioRender template
4\. Qu, Q., Zeng, F., Liu, X., Wang, Q. J. & Deng, F. Fatty acid oxidation and carnitine palmitoyltransferase I: emerging therapeutic targets in cancer. *Cell Death Dis.* **7**, e2226–e2226 (2016).
5\. Lesoin, L. Formation de liposomes par un procédé innovant utilisant les fluides supercritiques.
6\. Internalization of liposome by BioRender adapted to Sercombe, L. *et al.* Advances and Challenges of Liposome Assisted Drug Delivery. *Front. Pharmacol.* **6**, 286 (2015).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Creating Microcapsules With PEGDA Hydrogel ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pegda-hydrogel-microcapsules/)
**Published:** June 24, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Characteristics and Advantages of Using PEGDA for Biomedical Applications
**PEGDA hydrogel** is a promising material for applications in the biomedical field, most notably in drug delivery and tissue engineering. \[1\] Its composition of polyethylene glycol molecules linked to diacrylate groups offers **biocompatibility** and **adaptability**. When exposed to UV light, the PEGDA polymer when coupled with a photoinitiator leads to crosslinking, forming a solid structure. This structure has similarities to the properties of biological tissues, making it ideal for use in the following ways:
***–* Protection from** **active pharmaceutical ingredient degradation (API).**
– **Control of active substance delivery** releasing the contents of the microparticle or capsule in a specific area. \[2\]
Figure 1: An overview of the use of PEG-based hydrogels in biomedical and biological applications \[3\]
## Microfluidics: An Efficient Tool for Microparticle Synthesis
Classical methods of **microparticle or microcapsule production**, such as coacervation, spray drying, and solvent evaporation, require complex processes and equipment, making it difficult to **control the size and encapsulation**. Microfluidics enables monodisperse emulsions, resulting in microcapsules with highly **controlled size and structure**. With this approach, it is possible to create capsules of various compositions, allowing for the e**ncapsulation of both polar and non-polar phases**. Aqueous phases can contain **proteins or APIs**, while hydrophobic phases can encapsulate lipophilic or poorly water-soluble drugs.
Figure 2: Advantages of microfluidic droplet.
## All-in-One and Ready-to-Use System for UV-Crosslinked Microcapsules Production
The platform combines Secoya Technologies’ experience in droplet generation with Fluigent’s fluid handling knowledge to offer a state-of-the-art and easy-to-use microparticle formation.
The system incorporates the RayDrop (Secoya Technologies), which can produce **both single or double emulsions**. The microfluidic device’s geometry eliminates the need for surface treatments as the droplets are surrounded by the continuous phase and do not contact the capillary walls.
Fluigent [Flow Controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) and [Flow Units](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) ensure **precise flow control,** [**stability**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/)**, and** [**responsiveness**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/), which provides the ability to control microcapsule formation parameters. The system integrates microfluidic, mechanical, optical, and UV modules, offering a user-friendly, efficient, and versatile solution for **PEGDA hydrogel microcapsule production**.
*Figure 3: UV-crosslinked platform and its UV module.*
## How to Form PEGDA Microcapsules and Microbeads
In this application note, **microbeads** and **microcapsules** were **produced** using PEGDA-250 as it is insoluble in water, unlike PEGDA-575 or PEGDA-700. **Three photoinitiators** (DORACUR 1173, DORACUR TPO, or IRGACURE 2959) were tested and studied to demonstrate their **influence on the microcapsule’s characteristics**.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### UV-crosslinked microcapsule production platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
**Experiments:**
PEGDA hydrogel microcapsules were produced by following these steps:
1. The RayDrop was filled with the continuous phase.
2. The continuous phase was fixed to the desired flow rate.
3. The shell priming and cleaning phase were added to produce the first emulsion.
4. The core phase was added, generating a second emulsion.
5. When flow rates were stable, the shell priming phase was switched with the shell phase (PEGDA solution) (figure 4).
**Figure *4*: Generation of droplets using the RayDrop.**
The droplets were passed through the UV module, which is plugged at the exit of the RayDrop and permits the instant polymerization of the **PEGDA hydrogel microparticles** or **microcapsules** (UV lamp irradiated at 385 nm) (figure 5).
***Figure *5*: UV module In-situ cross-linking process leads to the formation of monodispersed microcapsules.***
## **Partial results**
When exposed to a UV source (wavelength: 385 nm, and minimum intensity Imin: 3.8 mW/cm²), TPO presented the best compatibility with **PEGDA polymers** as stable and **monodispersed capsules** were produced using the platform (figure 6). Under the same conditions, the capsules, formed while using DORACUR 1173 or IRGACURE 2959, were not stable and the shell became unstable within 1 minute of formation.
*Figure 6: PEGDA particles with TPO photoinitiator. The scale bar corresponds to 100µm.*
The mechanism between the **TPO photoinitiator** and the PEGDA hydrogel can be explained in Figure 7. The **photoinitiator reacts to the light** and initiates cross-linking of the PEGDA. A chain-growth mechanism is enabled, leading to the formation of a **three-dimensional structure**.
***Figure 7: Chain-growth mechanism using TPO photoinitiator.***
The interaction between the PEGDA hydrogel and TPO creates rigid shell microcapsules. To break them, an **external force** is required, such as a mechanical force applied by tweezers (figure 8).
*Figure 8: Broken PEGDA capsules using tweezers. The scale bar corresponds to 100µm.*
## Conclusion
This application note demonstrates the ease of **producing PEGDA beads** and **capsules using the** [**all-in-one UV -crosslinked microcapsule production platform**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/). The study compares three different photoinitiators, highlighting their impact on the robustness of the final particles. The TPO photoinitiator is recommended due to its compatibility with PEGDA hydrogel, matching irradiation length with the UV lamp used, and fast kinetics, resulting in quickly formed, rigid beads and capsules.
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Microfluidic Application Notes### PLGA microcapsules synthesis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microcapsule-synthesis/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
[Read the full document](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/pegda-microcapsules-production-appnote.pdf)
## Webinar: Controlled UV-crosslinked microcapsule production using microfluidic technology
Learn how to use the double emulsion platform to create microcapsules with PEGDA hydrogels.
[Access the recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production/)
## Resources and Expertises
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA microcapsules synthesis Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Creating kidney organoids‑vasculature interaction model using Fluigent’s Flow-EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/creating-kidney-organoids-vasculature-interaction-model/)
**Published:** June 24, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Kidney Organoids for mimicking human fetal kidneys
Kidney organoids are three-dimensional structures resembling human fetal kidneys (1), derived from two embryological niches that give rise to the kidney: the ureteric bud and metanephric mesenchyme. These organoids develop nephron structures, including glomeruli with podocytes, proximal tubules, and distal tubules. Due to their similarity to native tissue, these structures are valuable for understanding kidney development and studying diseases (2). However, challenges such as limited culturing times and lack of vascularization result in insufficient oxygen and nutrient supply, leading to necrotic core formation and limiting their size and maturation.
Despite the presence of some endothelial cells (ECs) and high expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in kidney organoids, traditional methods fail to achieve perfusable endothelial tissue expansion and maturation. Organoids exhibit endothelial maturation markers like MCAM (CD146) and PECAM (CD31), crucial for vascular development. Previous studies have shown that MCAM+ cells are vital for kidney vasculature development.
## Microfluidics technology for kidney organoids-on-a-chip
Current approaches to vascularize kidney organoids include implantation in animal models (3,5), but this results in vasculature derived from the host tissue. In vitro vascularization is a novel approach to overcome these issues. [Fluidic shear stress (FSS)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) in a millifluidic bioreactor has shown promise in promoting vascular structure development by establishing a VEGF gradient.
In this study, authors introduce a novel method for vascularizing kidney organoids using the BIOND microfluidic organ-on-chip with perfusable channels. Organ-on-chip systems are valuable for developing vascular models due to their ability to compartmentalize and co-culture different cell types. Perfusable endothelial-coated channels, created using HUVECs, have successfully formed microvascular structures with lumens in vitro. The goal is to achieve endothelial ingrowth inside kidney organoids via co-culture with synthetic vessels in an organ-on-chip, creating an efficient model for organoid vascularization.
## Materials and methods
### Organ‑on‑chip microfluidic system
The authors used the BIOND organ-on-chip system (inCHIPit™ and comPLATE™) from BIOND Solutions B.V., Delft, The Netherlands. The inCHIPit™ (Figure 1) features a culture chamber connected to three 400 µm-wide channels through 4 µm-wide pores. To generate flow, the chips are placed on the comPLATE™, which is connected to [Fluigent’s pressure pump FlowEZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/?utm_term=fluigent%20flow%20ez&utm_campaign=2022_France+-+All+products&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=8311881037&hsa_cam=13049504045&hsa_grp=137473519430&hsa_ad=591832432456&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-1254795114438&hsa_kw=fluigent%20flow%20ez&hsa_mt=p&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcF_cEcREqykgg8qcXxoOUmOpClFFYKKP54GDCxmz2DAkZS4vBez7yGBoCIp0QAvD_BwE) that creates 800 mbar of pressure, [circulating medium](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/) from the reservoir through the tubing and into the chip channels. This setup produces an estimated flow rate of 0.2 µL/min across the porous membrane. The system maintains a [constant flow](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/) due to [Fluigent’s flow unit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/), ensuring a continuous supply of fresh medium and stable [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/). These perfusable channels enable to sustain organoid cultures under fluidic flow, a crucial factor for vasculature development.
### HUVEC seeding on chip channels
Human umbilical cord endothelial cells expressing GFP were cultured in the chip channels statically for 48 hours, with the medium replenished after 24 hours. After 48 hours, the chips were connected to a [flow setup](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/?utm_term=fluigent%20flow%20ez&utm_campaign=2022_France+-+All+products&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=8311881037&hsa_cam=13049504045&hsa_grp=137473519430&hsa_ad=591832432456&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=kwd-1254795114438&hsa_kw=fluigent%20flow%20ez&hsa_mt=p&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjw34qzBhBmEiwAOUQcF_cEcREqykgg8qcXxoOUmOpClFFYKKP54GDCxmz2DAkZS4vBez7yGBoCIp0QAvD_BwE) with a constant microfluidic flow rate of 3 µL/min for 48 hours before placing the kidney organoids in the top chamber. Confocal imaging and Fiji software were used for 3D rendering and analysis of HUVEC directionality. To assess directionality cells that showed an elongation and direction concurrent with the flow direction with a deviation not greater than 45° were considered as having acquired directionality (Figure 2).
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/fluorescence-image-of-the-chip.webp)
*FIgure 2: (A) fluorescence image of the chip’s three microfluidic channels after 48 h of static culture, showing GFP+ HUVECs forming a monolayer inside these channels. (B) Fluorescence image of a chip channel after 48 h of static culture+24 h of flow, showing HUVECs remained in the channels after exercising fluidic stress and adopted a directionality concurrent with the flow direction. (C) Detail images of the chip channels after 48 h of static culture+24 h of flow, in which the directionality acquired by the HUVECs can be observed (indicated with arrow). (D) 3D render of confocal stack of a chip channel lined with GFP+ HUVECs showing establishment of a 3D synthetic vessel presenting cells in all planes.*
### On chip culturing of kidney organoids
After 5 days of culture in the transwell system, kidney organoids were placed in the top well of the microfluidic chip system, with two organoids per chip. The culture medium used was suitable for co-culture conditions. The flow rate was maintained at 3 µL/min, and organoids were collected after 9 days for fixation and processing (Figure 3).
*Figure 3: Kidney organoid on chip (indicated with arrow) at day 20 of the protocol before collection.*
## Partial results
### Co‑culture of kidney organoids with endothelialized channels
Co-culturing kidney organoids with endothelialized channels promotes HUVEC migration into the organoid tissue and the formation of open lumen structures. To investigate this, the authors lined the chip channels with GFP+ HUVECs and cultured organoids above them for 9 days (Fig. 4A).
Figure 4: Schematic representation of the co-culture timeline of HUVECs and kidney organoids, indicating static culture, exercise of flow and addition and collection points of kidney organoids.
Upon co-culture with the channels endothelialized with GFP HUVECs, organoid tissue presented GFP+ HUVECs forming vascular structures that connected to native organoid ECs. (Fig. 5). These GFP+ structures also connected with the organoid’s endogenous ECs (GFP-) as confirmed by PECAM immunostaining. These results demonstrate that co-culture of kidney organoids and HUVECs on the chip system leads to endothelial cell infiltration and vascularization under microfluidic flow.
The authors present the first successful infiltration of HUVECs inside kidney organoids where they contribute to vascular development.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/06/dapi-pecam-gfp-of-organoids-and-huvec.jpg)*Figure 5: Immunofluorescent images of DAPI-PECAM-GFP of organoids co-cultured with GFP+ HUVECs on the microfuidic chip system for 9 days.*
## Conclusion
Kidney organoids derived from human iPSCs are a **powerful model for studying kidney development and disease,** but their lack of vascularization limits their maturation and longevity.
In this work, the authors employed **a** **novel organ-on-chip system** to initiate their vascularization. Their findings show that **this system supports kidney organoid differentiation** and **enhances both the number and maturation** of endogenous endothelial cells. By seeding HUVECs in the microfluidic channels of the chip, they created synthetic vessels.
When co-cultured with the organoids, HUVECs migrated through the porous membrane and formed vascular-like structures within the organoid tissue, presenting open lumens and connecting with endogenous endothelial cells.
This research marks the **first steps towards in vitro vascularization of kidney organoids,** offering significant potential for developmental studies and drug testing.
## Expertises and resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
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Microfluidics Case Studies A microfluidic Artery-on-a-Chip using Fluigent’s Microfluidic Flow Control System, the MFCS Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/artery-on-a-chip-model/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
## References
1. Takasato, M. et al. Kidney organoids from human iPS cells contain multiple lineages and model human nephrogenesis. Nature 536, 238 (2016).
2. Little, M. H. & Combes, A. N. Kidney organoids: Accurate models or fortunate accidents. Genes Dev. 33, 1319–1345 (2019)
3. Garreta, E. et al. Fine tuning the extracellular environment accelerates the derivation of kidney organoids from human pluripotent stem cells. Nat. Mater. 18, 397–405 (2019).
4. Xinaris, C. et al. In vivo maturation of functional renal organoids formed from embryonic cell suspensions. J. Am. Soc. Nephrol. 23, 1857–1868 (2012).
5. 14. van den Berg, C. W. et al. Renal subcapsular transplantation of PSC-derived kidney organoids induces neo-vasculogenesis and signifcant glomerular and tubular maturation in vivo. Stem Cell Rep. 10, 751–765 (2018).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [A multiplex microfluidic circuit for blood vessel-on-a-chip perfusion using Fluigent’s FlowEZ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/blood-vessel-on-a-chip/)
**Published:** May 27, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Microfluidics technology for blood vessel-on-a-chip
Blood vessels are vital for distributing essential nutrients and eliminating metabolic waste products throughout the body, playing a pivotal role in maintaining proper organ function. However, diseased blood vessels can lead to the onset of various serious conditions such as arteriosclerosis, aneurysms, and sepsis. To accurately replicate the complex microenvironment of blood vessels in vitro, researchers turn to [microfluidic technology](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/), which enables the creation of ‘vessel-on-chip’ (VoC) models. These models allow for the precise recreation of blood vessel functionalities, offering invaluable insights into vascular biology and disease mechanisms.
## Role of endothelial cells and haemodynamic forces
Within blood vessels, endothelial cells (ECs) form a critical lining, interacting with pericytes and smooth muscle cells (called mural cells) to regulate vascular function. Mural-EC cells interaction is essential for maintaining blood flow dynamics and ensuring efficient nutrient exchange between the bloodstream and surrounding tissues. Additionally, ECs play a crucial role in modulating inflammatory responses, thereby influencing immune cell trafficking and tissue homeostasis. Haemodynamic forces, including [wall shear stress (WSS)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) and circumferential strain (CS), further shape EC phenotype and function. These forces, varying across blood vessels of different sizes and locations within the vascular “tree”, exert significant influence on EC behavior and vascular physiology.
### Engineering 3D blood vessel-on-a-Chip (VoCs) and challenges in perfusion systems
To replicate the intricate architecture and function of blood vessels in vitro, researchers have developed innovative microfluidic-based approaches to engineer three-dimensional (3D) VoC models. These models integrate multiple cell types, extracellular matrix components, and haemodynamic forces to closely mimic the physiological microenvironment of blood vessels. Despite significant advancements, challenges persist in perfusion systems used to maintain consistent haemodynamic conditions across VoC replicates. Multiplexing strategies, such as fluidic circuit boards (FCBs), offer promising solutions by enabling simultaneous perfusion of multiple VoCs while ensuring stable flow dynamics. By addressing these challenges, researchers can enhance the reliability and reproducibility of VoC models, advancing our understanding of vascular biology and disease pathology.
*Figure 1: Overview of the Bood vessels-on-a-chip perfusion model.*
## Objective of the study
In this study, the authors present a straightforward approach to overcome the inherent diameter variability observed in **3D blood vessel-on-a-chip (VoCs)**, ensuring consistent hemodynamic forces across different replicas. By refining their previously established fluidic circuit board (FCB), they enhanced its capacity to perfuse up to twelve 3D-VoCs with varying luminal diameters while preserving uniform wall shear stress (WSS). This updated FCB offers several advantages:
- It maintains steady WSS and circumferential strain (CS) across 3D-VoCs using a single pressure differential, regardless of their dimensional differences.
- It facilitates simultaneous perfusion of multiple 3D-VoCs.
- The FCB allows seamless connection of 3D-VoCs in a plug-and-play manner
- It seamlessly integrates with standard microscope stages, enabling automated imaging while ensuring full functionality.
## Use of the FlowEZ for the VoC perfusion
The authors designed an FCB where multiple blood vessel-on-a-chip can be connected simultaneously in a parallel fluidic circuit (Fig. 2), to multiplex the perfusion of the 3D-VoC devices. The FCB features a main feeder channel (FCB green channel) branching into individual channels for VoCs (yellow channels), with a waste channel (red channel) directing flow to the opposite reservoir (Fig. 2c). [Pressure sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/pressure-unit/) in the feeder and waste channels regulate flow via custom software. This FCB accommodates up to four VoC devices, each with three [microfluidic channels](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) (Fig. 2b).
### Blood vessel-on-a-chip creation
Collagen scaffolds were created using pipette tips for patterning (Fig. 2aii). Collagen I hydrogel was prepared with reconstitution buffer and high-concentration collagen I. The mixture was injected into the receiving tip until the meniscus reached the driving tip outlet. PBS was added to initiate patterning, followed by incubation and gelation. Endothelial growth medium was pipetted into the receiving tip, and devices were further incubated. Prior to cell seeding, tips were removed, and HiPSC-ECs were injected. After injection, microfluidic devices were placed on a slow rotator (1 RPM) and rotated for 1 to 2 hours at 37 °C until all cells were attached and completely covered the collagen scaffold. Samples were then incubated with medium refreshed daily.
The scaffold was imaged using two-photon-second harmonic generation (2P-SHG) (Fig. 2d).
3D reconstruction of a blood vessel-on-a-chip used for this study is shown in Fig. 2e.
### Fabrication of the fluidic circuit board using Fluigent’s products
The FCB was tested with off-board medium reservoirs and Fluigent’s check-valves, and [flow sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) to reduce fabrication steps (Fig. 2f). It used 15 mL falcon tubes as reservoirs, equipped with 4-port pressure caps, and connected with low-resistance PTFE tubing. For long-term cell culture, an alternative circuit with a single flow sensor was used.
Pressure sensors were installed to measure pressure differences at the FCB and reservoir liquid levels. These sensors were connected to a micro control unit and a computer using USB. A custom python-based PID controller managed [Fluigent’s pressure controllers (FlowEZ).](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
Pressure was controlled using two 345 mbar pneumatic pressure controllers connected to the medium reservoirs to mimic the full range of the human physiological blood pressure.
*Figure 2: Design of the microfluidic system (a) the round microfluidic devices contain 3 microfluidic channels. (b) Expanded view of the fluidic circuit board. (c) The fluidic circuit. (d) The collagen fibrillar structure that reveals the lumen scaffold imaged using two-photon-second harmonic generation. (e) 3D reconstruction of a VoC used for this study. (f) Photograph of the tested fluidic circuit board, connected to the external medium reservoirs and Fluigent’s FlowEZ and sensors.*
## Partial results
To demonstrate the FCB’s utility in biological research, the authors investigated the response of 3D blood vessel-on-a-chip to haemodynamic forces.
### Assessment of endothelial cell responses to circumferential strain
First, they examined endothelial cells responses to circumferential strain (CS) induced by intraluminal pressure without flow, with collagen scaffolds as controls.
Collagen scaffolds were imaged with an up-right intravital microscope using 2P-SHG.
3D-VoCs seeded with TUBA1B-mEGFP-hiPSC-ECs cells were imaged using a widefield fluorescent microscope, at different luminal pressure points from P = 0 to P = 345 mbar with 25 mbar increments.
Imaging showed symmetrical expansion for both bare and cell-seeded scaffolds (Fig. 3a, b). The presence of an endothelial cell monolayer significantly reduced strain compared to scaffold-only conditions. Fig. 3c shows a strain curve of lumens without cells (collagen scaffold, n = 3) and with cells (3D-VoCs, n = 6).
Next, they used spinning disk confocal microscopy to analyze hiPSC-EC monolayers under CS, in greater detail. VE-cadherin junctions remained intact up to 100 mbar but showed overstretching at higher pressures. At 150 mbar of luminal pressure (strain of approximately 2%), adherens junctions adopted a zig-zag pattern, indicating overstretching of the EC-monolayer and partial opening of the cell–cell junctions (Fig. 3d, e). Despite this, the monolayer remained intact up to 345 mbar, with cell nuclei aligning along the lumen’s axis without continuous flow, implying overstretching of the cellular monolayer without rupturing.
*Figure 3: Blood vessel-on-a-chip under circumferential strain (a) brightfield image of a 3D-VoCs. (b) GFP-fluorescent signal of a lumen (blue lines). (c) Strain curve of the scaffold only and seeded scaffolds (d) Confocal reconstruction of live VOC (green) co-stained for adherens junctional marker (VE-cadherin, in red) and nuclei (Hoechst, in blue) at pressure = 0 mbar (e) Confocal reconstruction of the same region at pressure = 345 mbar.*
*Figure 4: Confocal microscopy of blood vessel-on-a-chip under WSS (a) hiPSC-ECs cultured in static conditions for 72 hours. (b) hiPSC-ECs cultured in static conditions for 48 hours and 24 hours under 0.3 Pa WSS. (i) TUBA1B-eGFP-ECs (green) co-stained for (ii) F-actin (orange) and (iii) merged image. Nuclei are visualized with DAPI (blue) in all images.*
### Assessment of endothelial cell responses wall shear stress
They also investigated cellular response to wall shear stress (WSS) in the blood vessel-on-a-chip model. The lumens were kept for 48 hours in static conditions to promote cell attachment and were then perfused for 24 hours. The 48 hours static- and 24 hours perfusion experiments were compared with 72 hours static.
In the absence of flow, the F-actin was mainly located at the cortical rim and the overall intensity was low (Fig. 4a). On the other hand, cells exposed to 0.3 Pa WSS for 24 hours showed actin stress fiber formation, demonstrating that the endothelial cells were able to react to the applied flow (Fig. 4b)
## Conclusion
Overall, the results demonstrate the capability of the perfusion platform to apply bi-modal mechanical stimulation—wall shear stress (WSS) and circumferential strain (CS)—to up to twelve blood vessel-on-a-chip simultaneously. The fluidic circuit design minimizes WSS variation due to different 3D-VoC diameters, eliminating the need for individual sample control and enhancing throughput. This is the first multiplexed, controlled perfusion system for 3D-VoCs.
By combining this system with a scalable method for generating 3D-VoCs, they increased the number of replicates per experiment. The FCB can independently control WSS and internal pressure using two pressure controllers while recirculating cell culture medium. They showed that hiPSC-ECs exhibit distinct morphological changes in response to WSS and CS, highlighting the necessity of controlling both stimuli in vitro.
Future studies could include detailed structural and functional analyses of hiPSC-ECs’ responses to WSS, CS, and their combination under various conditions. The flexibility of the FCB is expected to advance organ-on-chip technology, offering more predictive capabilities. This simple design can be integrated with advanced concepts to create more effective and user-friendly perfusion platforms.
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic In-Line Pressure Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/pressure-unit/)
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### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Expertises and resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Liposome Production Pack Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/liposome-nanoparticles-production-station-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 9, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Liposome Production Pack User Guide](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/plga-nanoparticle-production-station-user-manual/)
**Published:** September 26, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Real-Time Monitoring Platform for Ocular Drug Delivery, Integrating Fluigent’s Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/monitoring-ocular-drug-delivery/)
**Published:** April 22, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A University College London (UCL) Paper
Paper: Awwad, S.; Ibeanu, N.; Liu, T.; Velentza-Almpani, A.; Chouhan, N.; Vlatakis, S.; Khaw, P. T.; Brocchini, S.; Bouremel, Y. Real-Time Monitoring Platform for Ocular Drug Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2023, 15 (5), 1444.
Part of the Faculty of Brain Sciences,[ the UCL Institute of Ophthalmology](https://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioo/) holds the top global ranking for ophthalmology studies (per CWUR Rankings by Subject 2017). Collaborating with Moorfields Eye Hospital, they form the largest co-located hub for eye research, education, and care worldwide. Through groundbreaking research in ophthalmology and eye health, their interdisciplinary approach unites scientists, clinicians, and patients, leading to tangible improvements in people’s lives.
In collaboration with UCL, [Optceutics Ltd.](https://www.optceutics.com/) manufactures advanced in vitro models of the human eye (PK-Eye™) that accelerate the development of longer-acting intraocular medicines. Optceutics Ltd. offers fee-for-service research and strategic collaborations, specializing in preclinical ophthalmic formulation optimization.
## Challenges in Treating Posterior Eye Diseases
**The posterior segment of the eye**, where diseases like **age-related macular degeneration**, **glaucoma**, and **diabetic retinopathy** occur, poses significant **challenges for treatment** due to its **complexity**. These **ocular diseases**, which can lead to **blindness**, affect millions worldwide and are becoming more prevailing with the increase in the aging population.\[1\] To treat them, **therapeutic antibodies and proteins** have transformed the management of such conditions, often **requiring direct injections into the eye** for effective ocular drug delivery *(figure 1)*. However, frequent intravitreal injections are burdensome for patients and healthcare systems, prompting the **need for improved drug formulations** to prolong efficacy and reduce risks. \[2,3\] Therefore, formulation strategies are essential to address these challenges, necessitating either progress preclinical evaluation **in animal models or in vitro models**.
*Figure *1*: Ocular routes for drug delivery.\[4\]*
## How Can in Vitro Models Overcome Limitations in Ocular Drug Delivery Compared to Animal Models?
**Classical in-animal models** present several **limitations** in research and drug discovery, including anatomical differences between animal and human eyes. In addition, the formation of anti-drug antibodies complicates the testing of biologics. **Ocular tolerability and high costs** associated with animal models further highlight the need for alternative testing techniques.\[5\]
**In vitro models** offer a promising solution, serving as **alternatives or supplements to animal testing** during preclinical development. These models not only reduce reliance on animal studies but also help **validate dissolution specifications** and **demonstrate the bioequivalence of active pharmaceutical ingredients**. They have been designed for various aims such as assessing protein stability in simulated vitreous fluids, understanding the impact of eye movements, and evaluating drug release/clearance times *(figure 2)*. \[6\]
**Despite significant progress in in vitro ocular formulation testing** for posterior eye diseases, there is currently **no approved model specifically designed to assess intraocular pharmacokinetics** and still lack adequate representation of eye dynamics, such as flow rate and compartmentalization, crucial for understanding drug kinetics and stability within the eye.
*Figure *2*: Ultimate goals for In-vitro eye models to evaluate ocular drug delivery.\[7\]*
## PK-Eye™ Model: Example of Real-Time Monitoring Platform for Ocular Drug Development.
The **PK-Eye™ model,** designed and manufactured by [Optceutics Ltd.,](https://www.optceutics.com/) emerged as a robust and user-friendly tool, **addressing the limitations of in vivo models** for developing long-acting intraocular medicines. Combining this in vitro model with real-time monitoring systems will facilitate more efficient preclinical testing by increasing data collection while minimizing manual intervention.\[8\]
In a paper published in [*Pharmaceutics (2023)*](https://www.mdpi.com/1999-4923/15/5/1444)*,* **a newly designed real-time monitoring platform** was **scaled and automated for ocular drug delivery**. This platform aims to provide proof-of-concept for a fully automated and optimized PK-Eye™ model testing setup, to accelerate intraocular drug development by streamlining sample analysis and improving accuracy *(figure 3)*.
**Key features** of the platform included monitoring **flow**, **temperature**, **eye movements**, and **concentration evaluation of labeled protein molecules** *(figure 4)*.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/schematic-pk-eye-model.jpg)*Figure *3*: Schematic of the PK-Eye™ model.\[8\]*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/pk-eye-platform.png)*Figure *4*: Schematic of the PK-Eye™ platform including Fluigent’s FlowEZ.\[7\]*
## How to Scale up Real-Time Monitoring
Each PK-Eye™ model was connected to a [**FlowEZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) microfluidic controller, with buffer (PBS, pH 7.4). These controllers were linked to [**an FLPG plus 2-bar**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/) pressure source. The pressure and flow were managed via the **Fluigent A-i-O program (previous version of** [**Oxygen**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)**)**. Scalability was tested with configurations running **1× LineUp Flow EZ controlling 1–6 models *(****figure 5)*. Experiments ran at a fixed flow rate of 2 μL/min at 37°C, with a 48-hour equilibration period before data recording. The flow rates were recorded with [**flow units S.**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
*Figure *5*: Experimental setup of flow rate control with 1:6 ratios using PK Eye models in PBS at RT with a pressure control of for 24h. \[7\]*
**Figure *6*: Experimental setup used to select different flow lines to be analyzed by the concentration detection unit to monitor multiple PK-Eye™ models.\[7\]**
To enable **real-time monitoring of drug release profiles** across multiple models or fluid inlets, microfluidic valves from Fluigent were integrated into the system. It included three 3-port/2-way microfluidic valves ([**2-SWITCH**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)), an 11-port/10-position rotary valve ([**M-SWITCH**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)), and a [**SWITCHBOARD (Previous version of SWITCH EZ)**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/) *(figure 6).* This platform facilitated the selective collection of outflows from different models or inlets into the concentration detector, allowing for varied release profile readouts.
Next, the integration of this platform **with a concentration probe** was demonstrated. A PK-Eye™ model with a membrane was connected to the 2-SWITCH, allowing switching between fluid outlets. PBS buffer was pumped through the model while the outflow was alternated between the model and a PBS reservoir. **Alexa albumin was injected into the model**, and the system toggled between the model and reservoir **every 2 hours** for **real-time detection by the concentration probe**.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
## Proof-of-Concept: Unlock Stability and Scalability Using Flow Controllers vs Peristaltic Pumps
**Traditional syringe or peristaltic pumps** are commonly used in pharmaceutical labs to impose a constant flow rate, but they often **result in cyclical flow rate variations**. Fluigent’s pressure-driven controller **(FlowEZ)** was introduced in this work **to allow large-scale experiments**, offering **smooth flow rates** with **minimal variation** and **rapid response** to pressure or flow rate changes. Troubleshooting was also easier with this system compared to peristaltic pumps *(table 1)*.
*Table *1*: Comparison between the PK-Eye platform based on a peristaltic pump system or a flow controller system.*
Model-Platform Flow based on peristaltic pump (1st Generation PK-Eye™) Flow based on pressure-driven controllers (Latest PK-Eye™ model) Pressure-flow Monitoring No Yes (with graph readout) Simultaneous
models testing (n) 848Circadian rhythm No Yes (with graph readout) Simulated vitreous fluids leakage monitoring No Yes (with graph readout) Eye movement
monitoring No Yes, eye movements shown
(with graph readout) Temperature
monitoring Thermometer Temperature sensors Concentration
readout Manual sampling
and HPLC analysis Manual sampling and HPLC analysis, and use of concentration probe setup 
“A pressure-controlled flow system, as opposed to syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps, was introduced to allow large scale experiments by allowing a single pressure source to control several models simultaneously. The flow rate controlled by compressed air results in an extremely smooth flow rate with quasi-null flow rate variation”
**S.Awwad *et al*., Pharmaceutics 2023,15, 1444.**
**In parallel systems**, pressure remained **constant**, allowing **multiple models to be controlled simultaneously** from **a single pressure source** with the ability to run **up to six models concurrently**. Ratio experiments demonstrated this, with each model flowing within a natural aqueous humor flow rate range (between 1.5 µL/min and 2.7 µL/min), highlighting the **uniformity of the setup** *(figure 7)*.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/pk-eye-models-experiment.png)*Figure *7*: Flow rate and pressure drops within the six PK-Eye™ models in PBS at RT. \[ 7\]*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/graph-flow-and-pressure-from-the-eye-models.png)**Figure *8*: Graph readout from the microfluidic system showing the flow and pressure from the models with SVF at 37°C. \[7\]**
The microfluidic setup with the PK-Eye™ model **ensured consistency and detects simulated vitreous fluids** (SVF) leakage during testing, critical for maintaining quality control. Stability tests with the model showed **consistent pressure and flow rates over 5 days**, indicating successful SVF containment without leakage (*figure 8*). This highlights the **robustness of both the microfluidic system and model setup** throughout the experiment.
The **integration of the 2-SWITCH/M-SWITCH** setup **facilitated continuous drug quantification** across multiple model post-clearance from the PK-Eye™ model, utilizing a connected concentration probe through the M-SWITCH. **The platform effectively selected different fluid outlets automatically from this combination of M-SWITCH and 2-SWITCH**, enabling real-time monitoring of drug release between multiple flow outlets *(figure 9)*.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/graph-flow-rates-in-time-eye-model.png)***Figure *9*: Graph of the different flow rates in time (1.5,2.0 and 2.5 µL/min), and the M-Switch unit flow rate demonstrating the selection of the flow rate through the M-Switch.\[7\]***
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/04/continuous-monitoring-of-alexa-albumin.png)***Figure *10*: Continuous monitoring of Alexa albumin from the concentration probe connected to 2-SWITCH/M-SWITCH platform.\[7\]***
As a proof-of-concept, the concentration-time profile of Alexa albumin injected into the PK-Eye™ was determined using a concentration probe setup**. The platform successfully reproduced the drug release curve**, reaching a maximum concentration of approximately 89 μg/mL at 20 hours. This demonstrates the **automatic selection of channels flowing through the concentration probe** *(figure 10)*. Thus, it highlights the potential for automated redirection of different flows to record the concentration of cleared drugs, showcasing the **real-time monitoring capabilities of the platform for ocular drug delivery**.
## Conclusion
The **PK-Eye™ model,** developed by Optceutics Ltd., fast-tracks intraocular drug development through **real-time monitoring on an automated platform.** This platform records pressure, flow, temperature, eye movement, and concentration in connected models, helping in ocular drug delivery studies. Computer-controlled microfluidics **mimic ocular flow dynamics with high stability and responsiveness**, while an eye movement platform studies their impact on drug clearance. The 2-SWITCH/M-SWITCH platform expands monitoring capacity for multiple models simultaneously.
[*Also, check how to benefit from the advantages of microfluidics for biologics and drug encapsulation.*](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
## Related products
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### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
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### M-SWITCH™ Microfluidic bidirectional valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/)
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
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## Expertise & Resources
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
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Microfluidics Article Reviews Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics for vaccine development Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## References:
(1) Ranta, V.; Urtti, A. Transscleral drug delivery to the posterior eye: Prospects of pharmacokinetic modeling. Adv. Drug Deliv. Rev. 2006, 58, 1164–1181.
(2) Jager, R.D.; Aiello, L.P.; Patel, S.C.; Cunningham, E.T. Risks of intravitreous injection: A comprehensive review. Retina 2004, 24, 676–698.
(3) Thrimawithana, T.; Young, S.; Bunt, C. Drug delivery to the posterior segment of the eye. Drug Discov. Today 2011, 16, 270–277.
(4) Souto, E. B.; Dias-Ferreira, J.; López-Machado, A.; Ettcheto, M.; Cano, A.; Camins Espuny, A.; Espina, M.; Garcia, M. L.; Sánchez-López, E. Advanced Formulation Approaches for Ocular Drug Delivery: State-Of-The-Art and Recent Patents. Pharmaceutics 2019, 11 (9), 460.
(5) Laude, A.; Tan, L.E.;Wilson, C.G.; Lascaratos, G.; Elashry, M.; Aslam, T.; Patton, N.; Dhillon, B. Intravitreal therapy for neovascular age-related macular degeneration and inter-individual variations in vitreous pharmacokinetics. Prog. Retin. Eye Res. 2010, 29, 466–475.
(6) Awwad, S.; Henein, C.; Ibeanu, N.; Khaw, P.T.; Brocchini, S. Preclinical challenges for developing long acting intravitreal medicines. Eur. J. Pharm. Biopharm. 2020, 153, 130–149.
(7) Awwad, S.; Ibeanu, N.; Liu, T.; Velentza-Almpani, A.; Chouhan, N.; Vlatakis, S.; Khaw, P. T.; Brocchini, S.; Bouremel, Y. Real-Time Monitoring Platform for Ocular Drug Delivery. Pharmaceutics 2023, 15 (5), 1444.
(8) Liu, T.; Ibeanu, N.; Brocchini, S.; Khaw, P. T.; Bouremel, Y.; Awwad, S. Development of an in Vitro Model to Estimate Mass Transfer from the Anterior Cavity. Front. Drug. Deliv. 2022, 2, 1025029.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Mimicking tumor microenvironment using a 3D microfluidic model to improve cancer investigations ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mimicking-tumor-microenvironment/)
**Published:** March 29, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A Paper from the Delft University of Technology in The Netherlands
Rahman, Z. *et al.* Interstitial flow potentiates TGF-β/Smad-signaling activity in lung cancer spheroids in a 3D-microfluidic chip. *Lab Chip* **24**, 422–433 (2024).
This article, published in Lab on a Chip 2024, results from a collaboration between the Department of Chemical Engineering (Delft University of Technology) and the Department of Cell and Chemical Biology Oncode Institute (Leiden University of Medical Center) in The Netherlands.
[The Department of Chemical Engineering](https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences/about-faculty/departments/chemical-engineering/about-the-department/product-and-process-engineering) (Delft University of Technology) is divided into several research sections, all of which are based on one objective: being the leader of science involving all fields (chemistry, engineering, molecule, and device design). Among these sections, “[Product and Process Engineering](https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences/about-faculty/departments/chemical-engineering/about-the-department/product-and-process-engineering)” includes the science of organ-on-a-chip studies. [Dr. Pouyan Boukany](https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences/about-faculty/departments/chemical-engineering/principal-investigators/pouyan-boukany) is one of the principal investigators of this section, he works in several fields including tumor microenvironment at the interface of microfluidics and biology to understand fundamental issues. [](https://www.tudelft.nl/en/faculty-of-applied-sciences/about-faculty/departments/chemical-engineering/principal-investigators/pouyan-boukany)
The study demonstrated the crucial role of tumor microenvironment in cancer investigations using a 3D microfluidic model.
## The crucial role of the tumor microenvironment (TME)
### What is a tumor microenvironment?
Within an organism, **cells interact with each other** and with the extracellular matrix to **adapt their progression** according to the signals they receive. In the case of a tumor, cells do the same in an environment called tumor microenvironment that **promotes their proliferation, migration, and invasion**. TME provides tumor cells with **several protections**, including evasion of the immune system and apoptosis to increase cancer cell propagation (**Figure 1**). 1,2
### How does TME influence cancer cell behavior
Within TME, cancer **mechanosensitive cells can capture changes and must react** to these changes. They use **mechanotransduction** to transform a modification of **biophysical forces** at the cell’s surface, such as the interstitial flow (IF), into a **biochemical signal**. Because of shear, compressive, and tensional forces, **IF remodels the extracellular matrix** and triggers **signaling pathways** such as Yap/Taz and a biochemical response by **cytokines** (TGF-β) production.
*Figure *1*: The tumor microenvironment and their characteristics in cancer*2**
## Introduction of signaling pathways
### Yap/Taz pathway in cancer mechanotransduction
In response to changes that involve mechanotransduction, different pathways can be activated as **Yap/Taz,** which is well-known in this process (**Figure 2**).3 Yap/Taz is only effective when the HIPPO pathway is inactive. Indeed, the HIPPO pathway can be inactive or active, and their cell consequences are opposite. In the case of inactive HIPPO, Yap/Taz is functional and can **bind with Tead**, a transcription factor, to activate its target genes (**Figure 3**).4 Among them, CTGF is present, which is involved in the regulation of proteins such as **vimentin**. The upregulation of this intermediate filament protein is known for its **poor prognosis in cancer** and its involvement in tumoral progression.5
*Figure 2: Changes in TME which impact cell proliferation, apoptosis, migration and self-renew by YAP/TAZ pathway 3*
*Figure *3*: YAP/TAZ pathway by Tead 4*
### TGF- β /Smad pathway: driving EMT of cancer cells
As described before, in reaction of biophysical force changes, cytokines such as TGF-β are activated and trigger **TGF-β/Smad pathway** by attachment to cell receptors. However, TGF-β can use two types of pathways: **canonical or non-canonical** to activate TGF-β target genes. Thus, **promoting the epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT**), the change of a health cell phenotype to a cancer cell phenotype. In TGF-β/Smad pathway, many Smad phosphorylation processes lead to the activation of these target genes (**Figure 4**). 6
*Figure *4*: Canonical and non-canonical TGF-β pathways in EMT*7**
## 2D or 3D cell cultures: what’s the difference?
Currently, several models are used in cancer studies. It is difficult to consider all the factors involved in cancer progression, so current models are lacking. The traditional method used to investigate cancer is **classical cell culture (2D models**). It consists of culture cancer cells in 2D at 37°C in a flask in which treatments and drugs can be tested. Although this model presents many advantages such as the time of culture formation, the quality, and the cost**, it presents a major drawback**: not representative of the tumoral microenvironment. To overcome this limitation, the **3D culture has emerged** as a promising new cell model in recent years. 3D culture allows enlarged experimentations by **moving closer to *in vivo* models**. It exists different ways to produce 3D culture such as suspension culture on non-adherent plates, cultures in gel-like substances, or cultures on scaffold. All **3D-cultures represent a better cellular microenvironment** than 2D cell culture (**Figure 5**).
All benefits and drawbacks according to different criteria for 2D and 3D cell culture are presented in the following table. 9
*Figure *5*: Comparison of 2D vs. 3D cell culture*8**
*Table *1*: Differences between 2D and 3D cell cultures *9**
2D culture3D culture**Time of culture formation** Within minutes to a few hours From a few hours to a few days **Culture quality** High-performance, reproducibility, long-term culture, easy to interpret, simplicity of culture Worse performance and reproducibility, difficult to interpret, cultures more difficult to carry out ***In vitro* imitation** Do not mimic the natural structure of the tissue or tumor mass *In vivo* tissues and organs are in 3D form **Cells interactions** Deprived of cell-cell and cell-extracellular environment interactions, no in vivo-like microenvironment and no “niches” Proper interactions of cell-cell and cell-extracellular environment, environmental “niches” are created **Characteristics of cells** Changed morphology and way of divisions; loss of diverse phenotype and polarity Preserved morphology and way of divisions, diverse phenotype, and polarity **Access to essential compounds** Unlimited access to oxygen, nutrients, metabolites and signaling molecules (in contrast to *in vivo*) Variable access to oxygen, nutrients, metabolites and signaling molecules (same as *in vivo*) **Molecular mechanisms**Changes in gene expression, mRNA splicing, topology, and biochemistry of cells Expression of genes, splicing, topology, and biochemistry of cells as *in vivo* **Cost of maintaining a culture** Cheap, commercially available tests and the media More expensive, more time-consuming, fewer commercially available tests ## How microfluidics allows renewal of 3D cell cultures
The emergence of microfluidics in the 90s improved scientific research in several applications such as cell culture including 3D culture. [Microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) are the new model that **offers low-cost 3D cell culture** thanks to their small volumes and allows the generation of a better cellular microenvironment. [Microfluidics opens the door to organ-on-chip technology](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/) including tumor-on-chip to mimic its TME (biophysical forces, cytokines, …) as much as possible by precise flow control using pressure pumps. **Many organs can be mimicked**, breast and lung cancers rank first and second respectively among the most studied new models (**Figure 6**).10 These tumor-on-chip models also allow the rapid tests of many drugs at different concentrations on a single chip, **which was previously impossible**.
The last studies are for the most part in 2D and some in 3D in which there are substitutes of IF and cytokines but never of extracellular matrix. Indeed, to represent the tumoral microenvironment, you must be able to combine all these three elements. Thus, microfluidics appears as the best approach to mimic biophysical forces by interstitial flow whether in 2D or 3D environment.
*Figure *6*: The distribution of the recently cancer models*10**
## Aim of the study
To improve cancer studies, researchers from the **Department of Chemical Engineering** proved the importance of 3D cell culture to cancer investigations. They demonstrated the **role of cytokines** (TGF-β) and **biophysical forces** such as interstitial flow **in the motility of lung cancer cells**; thus, showing their crucial involvement of the tumoral microenvironment in cancer research.
In this paper, a **special configuration is** tested to recreate the interstitial flow, the extracellular matrix, and the lung cancer, including a Fluigent [MCFS™ series](https://store.fluigent.com/products/mcfs-series/) to **mimic the tumor microenvironment**. A precise pressure has been generated to allow the interstitial flow to pass through the microfluidic chip.
## Mimicking of tumor microenvironment within microfluidic chips
To investigate TEM roles in cancer research, a device was specially designed which contained a microfluidic chip made in PDMS separated into three channels. The middle channel was dedicated to the **A549 lung tumor cultivated in spheroid** and enclosed in **a gel mimicking the extracellular matrix**. The top channel was maintained at a high pressure and the bottom channel was maintained at a low pressure that permits the **interstitial flow to pass into the middle channel** of the microfluidic chip (**Figure 7**). Different pressures were tested to optimize results, and that was possible thanks to [Fluigent’s MCFS™ series pressure pump](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) which allows **good control of each pressure** and **avoids channel obstruction.**
*Figure *7*: Description of the microfluidic chip used to mimic TME*
*Figure *8*: Microfluidic setup for lung cancer spheroid investigation*
Two parameters were combined to test different conditions: **with or without interstitial flow** and **with or without TGF-β.** To investigate their impacts, TGF-β by Smad-dependent pathway and vimentin biomarker expressions were **measured by fluorescence** thanks to the reporter genes. Thus, A549 lung cancer cells were modified with dual artificial reporter constructs:
- **CAGA-12-GFP** reporter gene for TGF-β/Smad dependent pathway
- **VIM-RFP** reporter gene for vimentin.
An inverted fluorescence microscope, Zeiss Axio-Observer, and a digital camera were used to perform fluorescence images of A549 lung tumor spheroid which permits measuring the fluorescence of reporter genes in response to interstitial flow and cytokines. The **pixel intensity standard deviation** was used to **quantify the cellular motion activity** of the spheroid in different conditions. The experimental setup is presented in the following figure.
## Results: Interstitial flow is involved in TGF-β/Smad pathway in lung cancer spheroid
First, the expression of CAGA-12-GFP was measured in different conditions at t=0 and after 70 hours by superposition of bright-field images and fluorescence intensity. TGF-β was added at a concentration of 10ng/mL and pressure was ∆P = 30 mbar (∆P= P1-P2). An **increase of CAGA-12-GFP** is observed when an **interstitial flow is applied** which suggests the **involvement of IF in TGF-β/Smad pathway** in lung cancer spheroids (**Figure 9.A**).
The expression of VIM-RFP was also measured in the same conditions. Again, the addition of interstitial flow leads to an increase in Vim reporter gene expression. This increase confirms that **IF plays a crucial role in vimentin expression** (**Figure 9.B**).
*Figure *9*: Intensity of fluorescence at t=0 and t=70h showing transcriptional reporter gene for CAGA-12-GFP (A) and VIM-RFP (B)*
*Figure *10*: Quantitative measurement of normalized VIM-RFM reporter signal intensity ay t=70h for various exogenous TGF-β concentration with constant IF (A) and with or without IF with constant exogenous TGF-β concentration (B)*
Different concentrations of exogenous TGF-β were tested with a constant ∆P = 30 mbar. From a concentration of 1ng/mL, a **potentiating effect of exogenous TGF-β and IF on VIM-RFP** reporter gene expression was observed. The VIM-RFP intensity doubled when the exogenous TGF-β concentration increased. However, there was no significant difference between 1ng/mL and 10ng/mL concentration. (**Figure 10.A**). Second, an exogenous TGF-β concentration at 10ng/mL was tested with or without IF. **With interstitial flow, there was a higher VIM-RFP** reporter gene intensity than without IF (**Figure 10.B**). Therefore, results suggested that **TGF-β pathway induced by mechanotransduction** (IF) was involved in **upregulating vimentin** in lung cancer spheroid.
A standard deviation analysis was performed to represent the motion activity in A549 lung tumor spheroid. The two spheroids were stimulated with exogenous TGF-β at a concentration of 10ng/mL but one of them did not receive interstitial flow with ∆P = 30 mbar. Results showed that the combination of biophysical forces (IF) and cytokines (exogenous TGF-β) increased standard deviation, correlating with a higher cellular motion activity than with only cytokines (Figure 11.A vs B). MovieA and MovieB presented respectively all pictures taken for A and B configurations. More motion activity was detected at the top of the spheroid, where more biophysical forces were applied, which proved their involvement in cellular motion (Figure 11.A). Thus, only exogenous TGF-β is not sufficient to trigger motion activity. Mechanotransduction by biophysical forces activated TGF-β/Smad pathway to generate motility associated with an increase of invasion in tumor microenvironment.
*Figure *11*: Standard deviation analysis showing cellular motion activity on A549 spheroid with exogenous TGF-β and with (A) or without (B) IF*
Movie A
Movie B
## Conclusion
In this article, researchers from **Delft University of Technology** demonstrated that the microfluidics system allowed the **creation of a new cancer model**. It consists of a **lung cancer spheroid embedded in a 3D-matrix mimicking** tumor microenvironment such as biophysical forces (IF) and cytokines (TGF-β). Using [Fluigent’s pressure pump, MFCS series](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/), has contributed to obtaining **reproducible results** by generating precise and stable pressure. They showed and explained the **involvement of mechanotransduction and cytokines in TME and EMT**. Exogenous TGF-β contributed to the increase of Smad pathway and vimentin reporter genes, even more so in the presence of interstitial flow. These **upregulations of expression** are correlated with cancer **cell invasion and EMT** (**Figure 12**). Thus, 3D microfluidic platform **could open the door to new investigations** on other cancer types including the mimicking of TME conditions.
*Figure *12*: Illustration of the response of A549 spheroid embedded in a matrix environment in the presence of TGF-β and I*F
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Emulating the chondrocyte microenvironment using multi-directional mechanical stimulation in a cartilage-on-chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mechanical-stimulation-in-a-cartilage-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
## References
1\. Arneth, B. Tumor Microenvironment. *Medicina (Mex.)* **56**, 15 (2020).
2\. Wang, M. *et al.* Role of tumor microenvironment in tumorigenesis. *J. Cancer* **8**, 761–773 (2017).
3\. Cai, X., Wang, K.-C. & Meng, Z. Mechanoregulation of YAP and TAZ in Cellular Homeostasis and Disease Progression. *Front. Cell Dev. Biol.* **9**, (2021).
4\. Zhou, Y. *et al.* The TEAD Family and Its Oncogenic Role in Promoting Tumorigenesis. *Int. J. Mol. Sci.* **17**, 138 (2016).
5\. Satelli, A. & Li, S. Vimentin as a potential molecular target in cancer therapy Or Vimentin, an overview and its potential as a molecular target for cancer therapy. *Cell. Mol. Life Sci. CMLS* **68**, 3033–3046 (2011).
6\. Zi, Z., Chapnick, D. A. & Liu, X. Dynamics of TGF-β/Smad signaling. *FEBS Lett.* **586**, 1921–1928 (2012).
7\. Canonical and non-canonical TGF-β pathways in EMT by Daisy Shu in BioRender adapted to Zou, H. *et al.* Polarity and epithelial-mesenchymal transition of retinal pigment epithelial cells in proliferative vitreoretinopathy. *PeerJ* **8**, e10136 (2020).
8\. Comparison of 2D vs 3D cell culture by BioRender adapted to Hussey, G. S., Dziki, J. L. & Badylak, S. F. Extracellular matrix-based materials for regenerative medicine. *Nat Rev Mater* **3**, 159–173 (2018).
9\. Kapałczyńska, M. *et al.* 2D and 3D cell cultures – a comparison of different types of cancer cell cultures. *Arch. Med. Sci.* (2016) doi:10.5114/aoms.2016.63743.
10\. van Duinen, V., Trietsch, S. J., Joore, J., Vulto, P. & Hankemeier, T. Microfluidic 3D cell culture: from tools to tissue models. *Curr. Opin. Biotechnol.* **35**, 118–126 (2015).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Compact Vacuum Pump - User manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/compact-vacuum-pump/)
**Published:** April 20, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Microfluidic volume definitions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-volume-definitions/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to microfluidics
The main goal of [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) is to miniaturize all the components of the fluidic platform as much as possible, which means working with very small amounts of liquid, ranging from 1 picoliter to 100 microliters. A certain amount of liquid is lost as it flows through the entire fluidic path towards the [chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/), and this quantity depends on the internal volume of the system. The challenge with microvolumes is to design chips and components with the smallest internal volume possible in order to minimize liquid losses.
## Microfluidic swept volume
The swept volume is the portion of the internal volume that is directly in the flow pathway: fluids are bound to flow through this volume when flowing through the fitting. It is generally best to keep this swept volume as small as possible to help minimize the amount of sample or reagent required for your experiments, which can ultimately save you time and costs. Furthermore, the swept volume also affects the fluid dynamics of the system, for example by increasing the [flow resistance](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/), influencing how the fluid flows through the fitting and how the fluids mix.
To ensure optimal performance, it is important to consider the swept volume when choosing fittings and designing your microfluidic system. Fluigent offers a variety of [fittings](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/fluigent-expertise/tubing-and-fittings-in-microfluidics-fluigent/) to meet the needs of different applications.
## Microfluidic dead volume
Another type of volume in a microfluidic setup is the dead volume. This is the portion of the internal volume that is out of the flow path. This means that any liquid that flows into this area or any molecules that diffuse there may not be recovered, or may only be recovered later on. As such, the dead volume can be thought of as a kind of “buffer tank”. Of course, all manufacturers of microfluidic parts try to minimize the dead volumes in their fluidic products. Dead volume can become an issue when several samples need to flow through the same path but mustn’t contaminate one another.
## Microfluidic internal volume
The dead volume and the internal volume have to be differentiated, as it is sometimes the case. The internal volume is the sum of the swept and the dead volumes.is critical for many microfluidic applications.
Indeed, when an experiment needs to simulate biological or mathematical flow profiles, a highly responsive pump is necessary to generate sine waves, ramps, If the connection with the tubing is not optimized, an additional internal volume can be created. To help the liquid to flow directly and completely into the chip from the tubing, ensure that all tubing is fully seated and tightened at all times. A good practice is also to try to match the tubing ID as closely as possible to the diameters of the inlet/outlet ports of one’s chips.
## Reducing internal volumes in microfluidic experiments
At Fluigent, we understand the importance of minimizing the volumes used in microfluidic platforms. One way to achieve this is through the use of [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) and elements with a low “dead volume,” which is the portion of the internal volume that is not directly in the flow pathway and can cause liquid loss. Another approach is to optimize the flow pathways within the chip to minimize the “swept volume,” which is the portion of the internal volume that is directly in the flow pathway. This can be achieved using advanced microfluidic technologies such as the [FASTAB](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/direct-flow-control-algorithm/)™ system, which allows for precise control of fluid flow and mixing. Implementing efficient liquid handling solutions can also help to reduce volumes in microfluidics. At Fluigent, we are constantly researching and developing new ways to minimize problematic microvolume experiments and improve the overall performance of our microfluidic platform.
## Related Content
- [
### Be-Flow perfused cell culture chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [Support & Tools### Microfluidic calculators
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/)
**Catégories de ressource:** General Overview of Microfluidics
---
### [Microfluidic Resistance](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to microfluidic flow resistance
Hydrodynamic resistance, or flow resistance, can be defined as the opposition offered by a fluidic element (tubing, channels, valves…) to the flow itself. When pressure is applied to a fluid, the flow resistance will determine the associated flow rate. By tuning the flow resistance of the system, the **range and precision of the flow rate can be controlled**.
In a microfluidic set-up, we can [calculate two distinct kinds of hydraulic flow resistance](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/), depending on the impact they have on the experiment:
### External flow resistances
This is induced by[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/microfluidic-tubing/)[the tubing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/microfluidic-tubing/) and fittings used to connect the microchip to the microfluidic[ ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/flow-control-and-measurement/)[flow control system](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/flow-control-and-measurement/) (pressure pump, syringe pump, etc.). By tuning the tubing material, length and diameter, this kind of resistance may offer an easy and powerful way to enhance or adjust the performance of flow control systems.
### Internal flow resistances
This results from the microchip design. Internal flow resistance management may be used, e.g. with a passive flow control system: In many applications, microfluidic circuits are designed to provide dedicated functions such as a gradient generator, droplet merging and splitting, passive valves, cell trapping, and so on.
## How to calculate microfluidic flow resistance
Microfluidic flows are characterized by the prevalence of viscous effects compared to inertia. From a physics point of view, this behavior corresponds to a low Reynolds number indicating laminar flow, leading to a drastic simplification of the complex Navier-Stokes equations describing fluid displacement. The result is a very simple equation linking:
- Mean flow-rate Q
- Pressure drop (change in P)
- Microfluidic resistance R
Just as the electrical potential drop dV is proportional to intensity A, fluid pressure drop dP is proportional to the mean flow rate Q. In both cases, a resistance R can be defined as the proportional coefficient.
This analogy points out that the microfluidic resistance quantifies an energy drop along the microfluidic channels. As in an electrical network, equivalent microfluidic resistances can be calculated to simplify modeling of complex microfluidic devices or Lab-On-Chip devices with multiple parallel and/or series channels.
## Resistance formula
It is possible to [calculate microfluidic flow resistance](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/) for channels with simple or common cross-sections, such as circular or rectangular shapes. For these shapes, the formula directly links microfluidic resistance with:
- Channel geometry
- Fluid characteristics
[Resistance Calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-calculator/)
## Related content
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [Support & Tools### Pressure & Flow Rate Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Selecting Microfluidic Tubing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-tubing/)
**Catégories de ressource:** General Overview of Microfluidics
---
### [Selecting Microfluidic Tubing ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-tubing/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Content:**
## How to choose the right microfluidic tubing
Working in a microfluidic environment usually requires the use of various fittings and microfluidic tubing, to connect your microfluidic device or your Lab-on-a-chip to the various elements of your [**microfluidic chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-expertise/chips-in-microfluidics/) or system.
Microfluidic tubing enables one to link the various elements of your microfluidic circuit.
Several parameters must be taken into consideration to choose the appropriate tubing:
- Tubing dimensions
- Tubing Materials
### Microfluidic Tubing dimensions
When selecting your tubing, you should become familiar with the tubing dimensions’ influence:
- **“OD” means outer diameter.**
- **“ID” means inner diameter:** Diameter of the fluidic path where fluid flows. The inner diameter plays a significant role [in the resistivity](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/) brought by the tubing: the smaller it is, the more resistant the tubing will be*.*
- **“L” means length.** Usually, the microfluidic tubing is made as short as possible to have smaller internal volumes, the internal volume of the tubing being the inner section times the length of the tubing. It is also a parameter that takes part in the resistivity of the tubing.
Figure 1: Definition of tubing dimensions (OD, ID and L)
### Microfluidic tubing fittings: Inches to millimeters conversion
Selecting the appropriate inner diameter is essential for controlling flow rates and minimizing dead volumes. Smaller inner diameters result in lower flow rates, while thicker tubing walls provide increased durability. Balancing these factors ensures optimal fluid dynamics within the microfluidic system.
In many catalogs, tubing dimensions can be displayed in inches, millimeters and mixture of the two. The following chart will help conversion between these two systems.
**Inches** **Millimeters** **1****25.4** 1/8″3.17 **1/16”****1.58** 0.040″1**1/32”****0.794** 0.030″0.75 **0.020″****0.5**1/64″0.397 **0.010″** **0.25** 0.007″0.175 **0.005″** **0.125**
### FAQ
- I have a **1/16’’ OD tubing**. What does it mean?
It means the tubing has an outside diameter (OD) equals to 1/16’’inch (**=1,58mm**).
- I have a **1/32’’ OD tubing**. What does it mean?
It means the tubing has an outside diameter (OD) equals to 1/32’’inch (**=0,794mm**).
- How to cut my tubing properly?
In order to get clean interface and prevent any clogging or collapsing of the fluidic path, all tubing should be cut with **specifically designed cutters**.
## Material Compatibility
The choice of tubing material is crucial to prevent interference with the experimental setup or sample. Consider factors such as chemical compatibility, inertness, and resistance to solvents.
A wide range of materials are available for the same ID / OD combination. The material should be selected according to the nature of the reagents flowing through the tubing.
Be careful to check the **chemical and biological compatibility** of the tubing material before installing the tubing on your application. Chemical resistance is particularly critical when working with aggressive solvents or reactive reagents to prevent tubing degradation or alteration of experimental results.
Some of the most common materials for microfluidic tubing include:
- **PEEK (Polyetheretherketone):** Biocompatible, chemically inert to most commonly used solvents, low non-specific adsorption. PEEK tubing is flexible, offers a very smooth internal surface and be easily cut to desired lengths. For low and high-pressure applications. Very small internal diameters available.
- **PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene, equivalent to the brand name Teflon®):** Chemically inert to most commonly used solvent, non-toxic, non-porous, excellent stress-resistance. Flexible and transparent. Mostly for low-pressure applications.
- **FEP (Fluorinated ethylene-propylene):** Same family as PTFE. Chemically inert to most used solvent and biocompatible. Flexible and transparent. Mostly for low-pressure applications.
- **ETFE (Ethylene tetrafluoroethylene):** Same family as PTFE and FEP but more rigid and better-suited to higher pressure applications.
- **Fused silica (high-purity glass):** Mainly for capillary tubing, exists with external diameters smaller than 1/32’’ (360 µm OD, 510 µm OD…). NB: this type of tubing must be cut with ceramic cutters to get clean inlet and outlet.
Low-pressure /high-pressure: With the regulated pressure provided by Fluigent pressure controllers, such as our [**Flow EZ™**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/flow-ez/), or our [**OEM offers**](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/), going up to 100 psi (7 bars), all fittings and microfluidic tubing used with Fluigent devices can be rated as low-pressure.
## Transparency and Visibility
For applications requiring visual observation or fluorescence microscopy, transparent tubing is essential. Materials like glass or certain polymers offer excellent transparency, enabling researchers to monitor fluid behavior and interactions within the microchannels.
## Temperature Stability
For experiments involving temperature-sensitive samples or processes, choose tubing materials with adequate temperature stability. Some applications may require tubing that can withstand extreme temperatures without deformation or degradation.
## Use sleeves or connectors to adapt your tubing
Consider the compatibility of the tubing with connectors and fittings. Standardization of connection methods facilitates integration into existing setups and ensures a secure, leak-free interface. Common connection types include barbed fittings, luer connectors, and threaded connections.
- Sleeves are small hollow cylinders; connectors are special fittings.
- For connecting 1/32’’ OD tubing to standard 10-32 coned port (1/16’’ OD).
- Different internal diameters are available.
- Example: The green sleeve provided with Fluigent **FRP LQ KIT** has the right internal diameter so that it can be slid over 1/32’’ tubing and has a 1/16’’ outer diameter. Thus, it makes a 1/32’’ tubing locally appear as a 1/16’’ tubing and makes it compatible with fittings designed for 1/16’’ tubing.
## Conclusion
Selecting the right microfluidic tubing is a fundamental step in designing an efficient and reliable microfluidic system. Researchers should carefully consider material properties, dimensions, transparency, flexibility, sterilization methods, chemical resistance, connection compatibility, and temperature stability to ensure optimal performance in their specific applications. By adhering to these general guidelines, researchers can make informed decisions that contribute to the success of their microfluidic experiments.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- Microfluidics White Papers
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
**Catégories de ressource:** General Overview of Microfluidics, Microfluidics tips
---
### [Microfluidic Software Review ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/software-in-microfluidics/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## What is software in microfluidics?
[**Software**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Software) is widely defined as a set of computer programs, libraries and data that tell the computer how to work. A user can usually interact with a software through a [**Graphical User Interface**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Graphical_user_interface) or GUI, whose content is updated by the [**software’s engine**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Software_engine).
Being a leader in microfluidics instrumentation, our microfluidic software tools **are mostly dedicated to controlling our microfluidics instruments, allowing for remote instruments’ control and sensor’ data logging.**
## How is microfluidic software instrumentation typically structured?
Microfluidic software instrumentation communicates with one or several instruments; this is achieved using communication buses/protocols. As mentioned above, it is mainly composed of a GUI and an Engine. In the case of microfluidic instrumentation software, the whole control chain is made of the following components:
### 1. The microfluidic instrument itself
A microfluidic instrument is made of hardware – mechanical, pneumatic and/or electronic… – parts locally controlled by the instrument’s internal software, also known as firmware. Most of the instruments, even standalone basic sensors, now use firmware. The instrument’s design, including the firmware, is made by the microfluidic instrument producer.
### 2. The microfluidic software between the fluidic instrument and the compute
The communication link between the microfluidic instrument and the computer that control is usually composed of an electrical cable; data is exchanged using electrical signal, using some communication protocol. [**IEEE-488**](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/IEEE-488) is widely used in instrumentation for example. Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or Zigbee are sometimes used, allowing wireless communication between instruments and computers.
*Figure 1 SDK computer langage compatibility*
### 3. The computer program or software in microfluidic applications
This part of the instrumentation chain is referred to as the instrumentation software. It can be divided into different layers.
#### A. An instrument driver
An instrument driver is a set of software routines that control a programmable instrument, from configuration functions to read/write operations. In our case, a microfluidic instrument driver consists in a set of functions that are based on our hardware “dynamic link libraries” or DLLs.
#### B. Our Software Development Kit
Our **Software Development Kit also referred to as SDKs**, can be considered drivers to control our instruments; our microfluidic pressure controller solution [**LineUpTM series SDK**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/) has been largely documented and allows for seamless integration within various commonly used Integrated Development Environments.
Our high level tools use such DLLs to interact with our hardware; for example, our software [**OxyGEN**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/oxygen-fluigent/), a **single interface**, with **plug and play capabilities**, allows you to **control**, **monitor** and **automate** all Fluigent products. It combines in one program all the functions and capabilities of our traditional software: A-i-O, MAT, ESS control and much more.
*Figure 2 Oxygen lab automation software*
#### C. The middleware part of the microfluidic software
The middleware part of the microfluidic software is usually in charge of collecting measurement data and making sure they get logged according to some previously executing user’s commands and providing data used by the graphical user interface to notify the user or feed measurements display graphs.
#### D. The graphical user interface
This allows the user to interact with the software.
## What can be achieved with our microfluidic software instrumentation tool?
2017 was a strategic year in terms of software for Fluigent; we actually released two high-level new microfluidics.
### 1. Quick ramp-up, a high level new microfluidics
Our microfluidics-focused software tools are designed to be user-friendly. We aim to empower everyone to work with microfluidics without the need to become software experts. If you encounter difficulties, our dedicated support team is here to assist and escalate any challenging issues or unwanted behaviors to our R&D software team experts for resolution.
### 2. A new software interface for all instruments, multiple operating systems and all your control needs
The new way to get **full control** of your microfluidic setup. [**OxyGEN**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/oxygen-fluigent/) is a **single interface**, with **plug and play capabilities**, available for **common desktop OS**, that allows you to **control**, **monitor** and **automate** all Fluigent products. It combines in one program all the functions and capabilities of our traditional software: A-i-O, MAT, ESS control and much more. Through its **intuitive dashboard**, OxyGEN is our new reference tool for **real-time control** and for developing **time-based protocols** focusing on **pressures**, **flow rates**, **volumes,** and **valve control** in microfluidic experiments.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Product presentation videos
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Microfluidics Case Studies
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Product presentation videos Meet OxyGEN : AUTOMATION and REAL TIME control software – Fluigent Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/meet-oxygen-automation-and-real-time-control-software-fluigent/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies University of Maryland: Microfluidic System for Robotic that can Play Nintendo Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/this-is-a-customer-case-study/)
## Related Products
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Lab Integration Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
**Catégories de ressource:** General Overview of Microfluidics
---
### [Liposome nanoparticles production station Protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/liposome-nanoparticles-production-station-protocol/)
**Published:** January 9, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [UV-Crosslinking of Microparticles](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## Comparison with other methods
### Why use microparticles ?
Microparticles with sizes ranging from 1 μm to 1000 μm have emerged as advanced functional materials for a wide range of biomedical applications, such as drug delivery, tissue engineering, biosensing, and cellular life science. These applications of microparticles depend on their properties which correlate with their **size, structure, composition and configuration.** Therefore, it is essential to fabricate microparticles in a controlled manner to **improve their pharmaceutical capability and reliability** for biological studies.
### Limitations of standard methods
Conventional methods for microparticle production include solvent evaporation, emulsion polymerization, dispersion polymerization, and spray drying1. These usually result in microparticles with large polydispersity, poor reproducibility, limited functionality, and less tunable morphology2.
### Benefits of droplet microfluidics for microparticles production
To overcome these limitations, [**droplet microfluidic technology**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) has been implemented. This offers **greater control over multiple fluid flows** at the microscale. It permits the generation of particles or emulsions with **higher monodispersity (~ 5% CV)** and **complex shapes and structures**. Many emulsion droplets can be polymerized (thus usually solidified) upon **UV irradiation**. This last step can be achieved in a microfluidic system, typically through the downstream channel, where droplets are irradiated with UV light (UV-Crosslinking of Microparticles).
## Perform an ultraviolet crosslinking of microparticles
### Microfluidic System for micro-sized particles production
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
### Software
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
### Reagents
**Continuous phase and liquid for spacing:**
- Distilled water with 1% Tween 20
**DISPERSED PHASE**
- Radcure Generic 7 – A non commercially available resin. However, any type of biocompatible UV polymerized polymer can be used using the same method
- Ethyl acetate 50%
- Photoinitiator TPO 1% (peak absorbance at 395 nm)
## Experimental procedure for UV-crosslinking of microparticles
Monodisperse polymer particle synthesis is performed in 3 main steps:
- Generation of monodisperse droplet
- Droplet spacing
- Droplet solidification by UV irradiation
*Figure 1 Schematic of the particle polymerization process*
*Figure 2 Picture of the particle polymerization process*
The UV-crosslinking of microparticles processis splitted in three steps: droplet generation, droplet spacing and microcapsule polymerization.
### Droplet generation
For [droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/), two pressure-based controllers ([**Flow EZ,**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) 2 bar) are connected to two [**P-CAP**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/) reservoirs containing the polymeric phase (dispersed phase) and distilled water with 1% Tween 20 (continuous phase). The reservoirs are connected to the inlets of the **Raydrop** using tubing, which passes through [**Flow Units M**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) for flow rate measurement and control. The dispersed phase is injected through the inner capillary of the Raydrop with a **flow rate of 5 µL/min**, and the continuous phase is delivered to the Raydrop chamber at a flow rate of **25 µL/min**. At the intersection between the two capillaries within the Raydrop, droplets are generated (figure 3). Using the above flow rates, droplets are produced with a frequency of 1 Hz and with an outer diameter of about 100 µm.
*Figure 3 Picture of the particle polymerization process*
### Droplet spacing
Once generated, droplets exit the Raydrop device with decreased flow velocity (due to the difference between the inner diameter of the downstream channel of the Raydrop and the exit tubing). To avoid clogging during the ultraviolet crosslinking of microparticles, increasing the spacing between droplets is highly recommended. Spacing between droplets can be performed by injecting liquid into the outer tubing in a co-flow manner.
To do so, a spacing device (a T-junction) is added to the outlet tubing (figure 1). Distilled water with 1% Tween 20 (same as the continuous phase) is injected into the spacing device with a flow rate of 250 µL/min.
### Droplet polymerization: particle solidification
After being spaced, the droplets are exposed to UV light with an irradiance of 95-100 mW /cm², allowing droplet polymerization and subsequent particle solidification.
## Results: Observation of the beads produced
*Figure 4: Polymerized beads observed under SEM*
After UV-crosslinking of microparticles, beads are recovered in a petri dish and analyzed under a microscope. Figure 4 shows the polymerized beads after synthesis. We can observe beads with an average diameter of 83 µm, and narrow polydispersity (+/- 1µm).
Note that the particle size is smaller than the droplets as **they shrink during the polymerization process**. We generated **particles of 83 µm diameter**, but by varying the flow rates of both continuous and disperse phases, it is possible to obtain different particle sizes.
## Conclusion
The fabrication of **core–shell polymer microparticle**s is of great importance due to their wide range of industrial applications, such as in the [food industry](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/), [cosmetics](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/cosmetics/), and [drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/). In this short application note, we presented a **reproducible solution for UV-crosslinking of micro-sized particles** that includes inline droplet generation, spacing, and polymerization.
The system allows for synthesizing particles with narrow polydispersity, tackling a limitation generally encountered in traditional methods for microparticle production.
### References
1\. Saralidze, K., Koole, L. H. & Knetsch, M. L. W. Polymeric microspheres for medical applications. Materials (*Basel*). 3, 3537–3564 (2010).
2\. Li, W. *et al*. Microfluidic fabrication of microparticles for biomedical applications. 47, 5646–5683 (2019).
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- Expertise
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Expertise Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
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**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [UV-Crosslinking of Microcapsules](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## Why use microcapsule ?
Over the past few decades, **core-shell microcapsules** have played an important role in the delivery and release of materials in the **pharmaceutical, cosmetic,** and **food industries**. Such applications often require a **high degree of control** over chemical release, a quality directly related the capsule material as well as the homogeneity of the [capsule size](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/) and shell thickness.
*Figure 1 Double emulsion production principle*
## Methods of microcapsules production
Microcapsules can be produced using a variety of methods, including polymerization, spray drying, solvent evaporation, and self-assembly. These methods typically lead to high polydispersity core–shell microcapsules \[1\] \[2\]. There is also limited control over morphology, poor reproducibility and compatibility with high encapsulation efficiencies.
## Double emulsion using the RayDrop
However, to obtain a highly reproducible UV-crosslinking of microcapsules, highly stable production must be achieved. Double Emulsions generated using microfluidic devices have been shown to overcome the difficulties of conventional methods by **enabling fine control of the capsule size and shell thickness,** while producing **highly monodispersed, perfectly spherical microparticle**s. Among these devices, the [**RayDrop** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)is the first to allow an easy to set up and robust production of double emulsion. It doesn’t rely on double coating treatment of PDMS/glass in planar chip \[3\]\[4\] or the alignment of two round capillaries in a third square tubing, as in lab-made glass capillary microfluidic device \[5\] \[6\].As described on Figure 1, the Raydrop relies on the use of a **3D-printed injection nozzle** carrying two fluids, the **core and the shell phases**. This is positioned in front of an extraction capillary in a cavity filled with the **third (continuous) phase**.
*Figure 2 Microcapsules production*
## Perform a ultraviolet crosslinking of microcapsules
### Microfluidic System for micro-sized capsules production
[
### Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Double Emulsion Generation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
### Reagents
**Continuous phase and liquid for spacing:**
- Distilled water with 1% Tween 20
**DISPERSED PHASE**
- Solution of **commercial Allnex methacrylate-based resin** with 0.1%
- 20% Ethyl acetate
- Photoinitiator Diphenyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide (TPO) from Sigma-Aldrich
## UV-crosslinking of micro-sized capsules: Experimental procedure
Monodisperse polymer microcapsule synthesis is performed in 3 main steps:
- Generation of monodisperse droplet
- Droplet spacing
- Droplet solidification by UV irradiation
### Droplet generation
In this UV-crosslinking of microcapsules process, double emulsions are formed by pumping the three fluids through the Raydrop using a [**pressure controller**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/). The flowrates are monitored using [**flowmeters**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/).
Using the [**double emulsion Raydrop**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) controlled double emulsification is achieved by dripping or jetting the core fluid into an immiscible shell fluid, which is then encapsulated by the third fluid. Core and continuous phases are aqueous phases, each being non-miscible with the shell.
As the core phase, **deionized water** is used and for the continuous phase, 1% wt aqueous solution of Tween 20. For the shell phase, a solution of **commercial Allnex methacrylate-based resin** with 0.1% wt of photoinitiator Diphenyl (2,4,6-trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide (TPO) from Sigma-Aldrich and 20% ethyl acetate is used.
As shown on the scheme in Figure 3, [reservoirs](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/) of resin solution and pure ethyl acetate are each connected to a valve. Ethyl acetate is first used as shell phase to initiate the double emulsion. When the system is stabilized, the valve is switched to the resin polymer. At the end of the process, **ethyl acetate is flushed again to rinse the nozzle and tubing**. The flushing of reactive or non-miscible species after an experiment **is key to maintaining good operation of the system day after day.** Fine control of the fluid flows leads to defined capsule and shell dimensions.
**Figure 3 Scheme of the microcapsule production process**
### Droplet spacing
Once generated, droplets exit the Raydrop device with decreased flow velocity (due to the difference between the inner diameter of the downstream channel of the Raydrop and the exit tubing). To avoid clogging during the UV-crosslinking of microcapsules, increasing the spacing between droplets is highly recommended. Spacing between droplets can be performed by injecting liquid into the outer tubing in a co-flow manner.
### Droplet polymerization: microcapsule solidification
After being spaced, the droplets are exposed to UV light. In-situ polymerization is achieved, meaning that the droplets are exposed to uv-light while still being moving forward in the output tubing connected to the [Raydrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/). Hard shell microcapsules are directly collected in the collection vial. The in-situ process avoids coalescence and deformation of the droplets that can arise in an ex-situ process where the droplets are polymerized after collection.
***Figure 4: Setup description for UV-crosslinking of microcapsules process***
## Result: Controlling capsule and shell dimensions by ajdusting the flowrate
In this method of UV crosslinking of microcapsules, the outer diameter of the emulsions and thus the capsule size can be selected within a broad range by changing the size of the collector capillary and the nozzle tip dimensions. This is easily achieved by a change of the two inserts.
For a configuration with the nozzle and output capillaries (respectively 90µm and 450µm ), as presented in this note, **adjusting the flowrates of the fluids allows for fine control of the capsule dimensions** (see Figure 4). With this setup droplet from **200µm to 300µm** can be easily produced.
The shell thickness of microcapsules can also be varied by changing the ratio of flowrates of the shell and core phases, as shown in Figure 4. Here shell thickness varies from **10µm to 50µm.**
**Figure 5 Microcapsule of 250µm with shell thickness adjustment between 10µm to 50µm**
## Conclusion
In this application note we have demonstrated how to perform UV-crosslinking of microcapsules in a controlled and reproducible manner.
From [droplet production](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) to microcapsule polymerization every step is presented to allow a good reproduction of the experience. This system allows for production of highly monodisperse microcapsule (CV<2%) without interruption as compared to other methods used for microcapsule synthesis.
[Read more about the product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
### References
\[1\] Chen, P. W., Erb, R. M., & Studart, A. R. (2012). Designer polymer-based microcapsules made using microfluidics. *Langmuir*, *28*(1), 144–152.
\[2\] Galogahi, F. M., Zhu, Y., An, H., & Nguyen, N. T. (2020). Core-shell microparticles: Generation approaches and applications. *Journal of Science: Advanced Materials and Devices*, *5*(4), 417–435.
\[3\] Abate, A. R., Thiele, J., & Weitz, D. A. (2011). One-step formation of multiple emulsions in microfluidics. *Lab on a Chip*, *11*(2), 253–258.
\[4\] Chong, D. T., Liu, X. S., Ma, H. J., Huang, G. Y., Han, Y. L., Cui, X. Y., … Xu, F. (2015). Advances in fabricating double-emulsion droplets and their biomedical applications. *Microfluidics and Nanofluidics*, *19*(5), 1071–1090.
\[5\] Ekanem, E. E. (2015). Author ’ s Accepted Manuscript Double emulsion production in glass capillary microfluidic device : Parametric investigation of droplet generation behaviour. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ces.2015.03.004
\[6\] Kim, S. H., Kim, J. W., Cho, J. C., & Weitz, D. A. (2011). Double-emulsion drops with ultra-thin shells for capsule templates. *Lab on a Chip*, *11*(18), 3162–3166.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- Expertise
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Expertise Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes UV-Crosslinking of Microparticles Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microparticle-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [PLGA Microparticles Synthesis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## Introduction
Polymeric Microparticles (MPs) are popular carriers to increase the bioavailability and bio-distribution of both lipophilic and hydrophilic drugs (1).
### What is PLGA ?
The Copolymer Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) is an FDA approved biocompatible material that is used for a variety of clinical and therapeutic applications ranging from intravenous and pulmonary drug delivery vehicles and anti-inflammatory implantable devices, to suture, scaffold, and graft materials. PLGA is degradable and bioabsorbable, making it highly desirable as a drug delivery device specifically in the form of micro and nanoparticles. In order to create PLGA microparticles as efficient drug delivery devices, it is critical to understand the physicochemical properties of PLGA as they help in the prediction and modification of polymer performance as it relates to drug stability and subsequent release (2).
PLGA degrades mainly via hydrolytic scission of the ester linkages between its lactic acid (LA) and glycolic acid (GA) moieties. The longevity of PLGA can be altered by changing the polymer length (molecular weight) and its end-capping—where another end group is substituted for the native carboxyl terminal groups (3).
### Why use microfluidics for PLGA microbeads generation
Methods for making these particles have limitations and can be wasteful. The specific characteristics of the beads may differ greatly across the sample since conventional batch procedures generate particles and beads with a wide range of sizes in each batch. In contrast, microfluidic technologies allow for the single-step synthesis of highly monodisperse particles (2). Microfluidics, and more exactly droplet-based microfluidics, offer an efficient method for improvement. [**Droplet based microfluidics**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/) is a powerful tool which enables micrometric monodisperse droplet generation and manipulation. Typically, PLGA microparticle production involves emulsifying an organic droplet phase—which contains dissolved PLGA in solvent—in an aqueous continuous phase (containing an emulsion stabiliser), resulting in a polymer solution-in-water emulsion.
Currently, dichloromethane is the most common and widely utilized solvent in all microfluidic systems for the production of PLGA microbeads. However, this solvent has many limitations due to its toxicity. Because of its less harmful characteristics, ethyl acetate has been thought of as a substitute dispersed solvent suitable in synthesising polymer beads(4-5).
## How to generate PLGA Microparticles using microfluidics
### Materials
In this application note we will describe a novel platform and protocol to use ethyl acetate at different concentrations for PLGA polymerization and continuous synthesis.
### Reagents
- Priming fluid: Ethyl acetate filtered with 0.2 μm pore filter and used without further modification (Sigma Aldrich, CAS Number: 141-78-6)
- Droplet fluid: Resomer® RG 753 S, Poly(D,L-lactide-co-glycolide) ester terminated, Lactide: Glycolide 75:25 is dissolved in ethyl acetate at room temperature by stirring over the course of an hour (Sigma aldrich,CAS Number: 26780-50-7).
- Continuous phase: 2 % (w/v) Poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) surfactant in water is filtered with a 0.2 μm pore filter (Sigma Aldrich,CAS Number: 9002-89-5).
Figure 1 PLGA microparticle production station
### Methods: How to use droplet microfluidics for the generation of PLGA microbeads
### Droplet Generation Experimental set-up
****PLGA Microparticle Production Station****
Figure 2 Schematic of PLGA microparticle production station set up full pack
Two different pressure controllers ([Flow EZTM](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/flow-ez/), Fluigent are used to handle fluids. A 3/2 valve (2-SWITCHTM, [**Fluigent valve**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/) is used to switch between pure ethyl acetate and PLGA dissolved in ethyl acetate and a second valve is also used in particle production output to switch between a waste and recover sample.
Two [**FLOW UNIT**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) sensors are used to monitor and control the internal and external phases flow rates during the run all.
The [**RayDrop Single Emulsion system**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) is used to generate PLGA droplets.
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
## Droplet Monitoring Analysis
An inverted microscope (Nikon, Eclipse Ti 2) and a high-speed camera (Nikon, PhotronFastcam) have been utilized to study droplet production.
The PhotronFastcam Viewer program has been used to analyze droplet sizes.
## PLGA Microparticle Precipitation
When droplets are formed, the solvent inside the microparticles constantly diffuses out of the droplet while the continuous phase is present.
The concentration of PLGA will increase with solvent diffusion outside the droplet and precipitate to create a solid polymer beads that is smaller than the droplet.
## PLGA Microparticle Recovery
PLGA Microparticles are recovered in a vial containing the continuous phase: water with 2% PVA. The microparticle size and monodispersity are determined under a microscope.
## Results
Figure 3 Particle size distribution A Microscope observation of PLGA microparticles just after the generation B Particle monodispersity graph
Figure 4 Particle shrinking for different PLGA concentration
- Webinar – Polymerization of microfluidics-produced liquid crystal double emulsions
## Polymerization of microfluidics-produced liquid crystal double emulsions for making wavelength and polarization-selective retroreflectors
In this webinar by the Experimental Soft Matter Physics (ESMP) group at the University of Luxembourg in collaboration with Fluigent, **we will demonstrate, first, that the liquid crystal shells form a rich and intriguing platform for innovative photonics research.**
✅ Be introduced to the amazing photonics of cholesteric liquid crystals and how their self-assembling behavior aligns perfectly with microfluidics;
✅ Learn about the interesting and useful consequences of photopolymerizing asymmetric shells around an incompressible liquid core;
✅ Be inspired by the diverse opportunities to apply the solid spheres created by polymerizing cholesteric liquid crystal shells;
✅ Find that all equipment and materials required to make these peculiar selective retroreflectors are commercially available, making it very easy to get started making your own cholesteric spherical retroreflectors.
---
## Conclusion
Successful production of PLGA microbeads with diameters between 15 and 50 µm has been accomplished. In comparison to other technologies available on the market, the[ PLGA microparticle production pack ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/plga-microparticle-production-station-automation-package/)enables great reproducibility and significantly increased monodispersity (CV 2%). It enables uninterrupted, long-term production of PLGA microparticles for use in investigations.
A PLGA microparticle synthesis package has been created by Fluigent to enable high-quality, continuous production for common investigations. It brings together all the benefits of pressure-based solutions and droplet microfluidics to focus on the experiment, and even offers the chance to automate protocols for producing different microparticle sizes.
## Related Resources
- [
### WEBINAR – Raydrop, a universal droplet generator based on a non-embedded co-flow-focusing
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-droplet-generator/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Droplet Sequencing: Drop-Seq method
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
## REFERENCES
1. Lagreca, E., Onesto, V., Di Natale, C., La Manna, S., Netti, P., & Vecchione, R. (2020). Recent advances in the formulation of PLGA microparticles for controlled drug delivery. *Progress In Biomaterials*, *9*(4), 153-174. doi: 10.1007/s40204-020-00139-y
2. Rapier, C., Shea, K., & Lee, A. (2021). Investigating PLGA microparticle swelling behavior reveals an interplay of expansive intermolecular forces. *Scientific Reports*, *11*(1). doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-93785-6
3. Keles, H., Naylor, A., Clegg, F., & Sammon, C. (2015). Investigation of factors influencing the hydrolytic degradation of single PLGA microparticles. *Polymer Degradation And Stability*, *119*, 228-241. doi: 10.1016/j.polymdegradstab.2015.04.025
4. Cho, M., & Sah, H. (2005). Formulation and process parameters affecting protein encapsulation into PLGA microspheres during ethyl acetate-based microencapsulation process. *Journal Of Microencapsulation*, *22*(1), 1-12. doi: 10.1080/02652040400026269
5. Sani, S., Das, N., & Das, S. (2009). Effect of microfluidization parameters on the physical properties of PEG-PLGA nanoparticles prepared using high pressure microfluidization. *Journal Of Microencapsulation*, *26*(6), 556-561. doi: 10.1080/02652040802500655
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## Introduction
Despite considerable progress in recent years, various disease diagnostics and treatments continue to present constraints such as low sensitivity or specificity, drug toxicity, and severe side effects \[1\]. Cancer represents one of the best examples of a disease where localized delivery of therapeutics is of great importance, as the potent yet toxic mechanisms of action of such compounds can lead to either an effective response or side effects. Today, most drug formulations are not capable of targeting specific sites of interest. Nanoparticle-based drug delivery platforms have emerged as suitable vehicles for overcoming these limitations \[2\]. Nanoparticles, such as **liposomes**, have proven **advantageous at preserving therapeutic material** and allowing for **extended half-lives** of drugs within the body \[3\].
Liposome nanoparticles are specialized delivery vehicles that serve multiple roles in **enhancing the capabilities of active** [**pharmaceutical**](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/) **ingredients** (APIs). They can **shield a drug from detection by the body’s immune system**, and they serve to help **solubilize highly lipophilic drug molecules** or modulate the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of the API.
## What are liposome nanoparticles?
Liposome nanoparticles were discovered in the 1960s. These hollow nanoparticles are phospholipid vesicles consisting of at least **one lipid bilayer** (figure 1). This bilayer is usually composed of amphiphilic phospholipids that have a hydrophilic phosphate head and a hydrophobic tail consisting of two fatty acid chains. This structural feature has facilitated liposome applications, including their use **as artificial cell membranes**, **carriers for drug delivery systems**, encapsulating agents for [food ingredients](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/), and analytical tools \[4–8\].
## Recent state-of-the-art applications
During the **COVID-19 pandemic**, the **first** [**vaccines**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-for-vaccines-research-and-development/) **to reach clinical trials** were based on viral vector and nucleic acid technologies. One of the most promising vaccine candidates was based on [nucleoside-modified mRNA and **encapsulated within lipid nanoparticles (LNP)** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform "nucleoside-modified mRNA and encapsulated within lipid nanoparticles (LNP) ")\[9\]. This confirms the need for lipidic nanoparticles for present and future drug delivery applications.
[More about the liposome nanoparticles production station ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
Figure 1 A liposome is a spherical vesicle having at least one lipid bilayer The liposome can be used as a drug delivery vehicle for the administration of nutrients and pharmaceutical drugs such as lipid nanoparticles in mRNA vaccines and DNA vaccines
In recent years, liposome nanoparticles have attracted significant attention as a trusted class of drug delivery vehicles. Their **self-closed structures** can encapsulate **multiple drugs** at once, protecting the enclosed cargo from hydrolysis and breakdown. Additionally, targeting proteins and surface functional ligands on the outer shell of the lipid bilayer can add novel functionality—enabling targeted entry of liposomes into cells, either via antibodies or receptor-targeted ligands. These ligands attach to cell receptors that are over-expressed in certain diseased cells, allowing entry of the drug through the cell membrane.
## What is the difference between Liposome and Lipid Nanoparticles?
Liposome and lipid nanoparticles are lipid-based structures used for drug delivery. Liposomes are spherical vesicles with lipid bilayers surrounding an aqueous core, while lipid nanoparticles are solid particles composed of solid lipids or a mixture of solid and liquid lipids. Liposomes have a hydrophilic outer layer and can encapsulate both hydrophilic and hydrophobic molecules, offering **versatility but potentially reduced stability**.
In contrast, lipid nanoparticles provide improved stability and are relatively easier to manufacture at scale. They are especially suitable for encapsulating poorly water-soluble drugs or nucleic acids. Liposomes have been widely used, while lipid nanoparticles are gaining in popularity, particularly in **mRNA-based vaccines** like those for COVID-19. Both lipid-based systems contribute to advanced drug delivery strategies, with liposomes offering flexibility and lipid nanoparticles providing enhanced stability and ease of production.
## Comparison with Another Production Method
**Batch method****Fluigent microfluidic method****Particle size distribution**LowHigh**Reproducibility**LowHigh**Live particle size control**NoPrecise**Range of particle size**Limited size rangeWide size range**Continuous (/in line) production**NoYes
## How to produce liposome nanoparticles
### Equipment
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
### Liposome nanoparticle generation
A stream of lipid in alcohol solution is surrounded by an aqueous phase within a glass capillary. The alcohol solution containing lipids diffuses into the aqueous solution (and reciprocally the water diffuses into the alcohol), until the alcohol concentration decreases to the solubility limit of the lipids. Consequently, this diffusion triggers the formation of liposomes by a mechanism described as “self-assembly”, where lipids assemble into a more energetically favorable structure.
The [**liposome nanoparticle production system**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/) is illustrated in figure 2.
Figure 2 Scheme of the fluidic setup
Figure 2 Pictures of the Fluigent equipment
## Partial results
**A liquid stream of ethanol with lipid surrounded by PBS**
**Liposome mean diameter and polydispersity index PDI as a function of the flowrate ration FRR**
## Conclusion
Liposome nanoparticles have proven advantageous for solubilizing therapeutic substances. Macroscale batch methods widely employed for liposome production lack control over liposome morphology, size, and distribution. [**Microfluidic systems**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/) allow for the production of **highly monodisperse liposome nanoparticles**. We have demonstrated the production of liposomes using a microfluidic system consisting of [**pressure-based flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) and the [**Raydrop™ microfluidic device**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) with standard configuration. Liposomes ranging from **30 to 150 nm** were generated. Sizes can be adjusted by controlling the device flow input parameters, particularly the flow rate ratio (FRR). **The polydispersity index (PDI) ranges from 0.07 to 0.15**. This system enables synthesis of liposomes for drug delivery applications, as encapsulating agents for food ingredients, or for other applications requiring nano-sized and spherical liposomes.
A complete, cost-effective and commercially-available platform for on-demand production of monodisperse liposome nanoparticles is now available. This allows for control of liposome size and frequency by adjusting flow parameters.
## Related Resources
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Liposome nanoparticles production station Protocol
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/liposome-nanoparticles-production-station-protocol/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### Liposome Production Pack Datasheet
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/liposome-nanoparticles-production-station-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Liposome Production Pack User Guide
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/plga-nanoparticle-production-station-user-manual/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent Products Datasheets### PLGA Nanoparticle Production Station Datasheet
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/plga-nanoparticle-production-station-datasheet/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics for vaccine development
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-for-vaccines-research-and-development/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
## References
1. Bozzuto, G. & Molinari, A. Liposomes as nanomedical devices. *Int. J. Nanomedicine* **10**, 975–999 (2015).
2. Blanco, E., Shen, H. & Ferrari, M. Principles of nanoparticle design for overcoming biological barriers to drug delivery. *Nat. Biotechnol.* **33**, 941–951 (2015).
3. Torchilin, V. P. Recent advances with liposomes as pharmaceutical carriers. *Nat. Rev. Drug Discov.* **4**, 145–160 (2005).
4. Bally, M. *et al.* Liposome and lipid bilayer arrays towards biosensing applications. *Small* **6**, 2481–2497 (2010).
5. Fathi, M., Mozafari, M. R. & Mohebbi, M. Nanoencapsulation of food ingredients using lipid based delivery systems. *Trends Food Sci. Technol.* **23**, 13–27 (2012).
6. Grimaldi, N. *et al.* Lipid-based nanovesicles for nanomedicine. *Chem. Soc. Rev.* **45**, 6520–6545 (2016).
7. Andrew Pohorille & David Deamer. Artificial cells: prospects for biotechnology. *Trends Biotechnol. Biotechnol.* 31- (2002).
8. Rongen, H. A. H., Bult, A. & Van Bennekom, W. P. Liposomes and immunoassays. *J. Immunol. Methods* **204**, 105–133 (1997).
9. Vogel, A. B. *et al.* A prefusion SARS-CoV-2 spike RNA vaccine is highly immunogenic and prevents lung infection in non-human primates. *bioRxiv* 2020.09.08.280818 (2020).
10. Pattni, B. S., Chupin, V. V. & Torchilin, V. P. New Developments in Liposomal Drug Delivery. *Chem. Rev.* **115**, 10938–10966 (2015).
11. Mui, B., Chow, L. & Hope, M. J. Extrusion Technique to Generate Liposomes of Defined Size. *Methods Enzymol.* **367**, 3–14 (2003).
12. Carugo, D., Bottaro, E., Owen, J., Stride, E. & Nastruzzi, C. Liposome production by microfluidics: Potential and limiting factors. *Sci. Rep.* **6**, 1–15 (2016).
13. Hood, R. R., Devoe, D. L., Atencia, J., Vreeland, W. N. & Omiatek, D. M. A facile route to the synthesis of monodisperse nanoscale liposomes using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing in a concentric capillary array. *Lab Chip* **14**, 2403–2409 (2014).
14. Jahn, A., Vreeland, W. N., Devoe, D. L., Locascio, L. E. & Gaitan, M. Microfluidic directed formation of liposomes of controlled size. *Langmuir* **23**, 6289–6293 (2007).
15. Jahn, A. *et al.* Microfluidic mixing and the formation of nanoscale lipid vesicles. *ACS Nano* **4**, 2077–2087 (2010).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction
### Pulsatile Peristaltic Pump for Organ on Chip: Low stability & response time
Flow control for Organ on Chip is a critical aspect of creating functional microphysiological systems. Historically, [peristaltic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) have been widely utilized to manage liquid flows due to their versatility and ease of use. However, in recent years, researchers have begun to shift towards the utilization of pressure-driven flow control systems. This shift in preference is due to the fact that peristaltic pumps cannot be modelled as perfect flow rate generators, as the back pressure generated by the pump results in a decrease in flow rate.
An alternative to peristaltic pumps, known as “piezo-electric pumps,” can be employed for intermediate flow rate applications (µL). However, for flow control of Organ on Chip applications, these pumps require the integration of a flow rate sensor, and fluctuations in flow rate can be observed at lower flow rates. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) pumps, although effective in minimizing these fluctuations, can be quite costly.
### Pressure-based flow controllers for Organ on Chip applications
A more recent development in liquid flow control is the utilization of microfluidic pressure controllers, which can pressurize a tank containing the sample, and smoothly and almost instantaneously inject it into a microfluidic chip. By coupling a pressure controller with a flow sensor, ultra-precise and sensitive flow control can be achieved. Additionally, by utilizing specialized software such as OxyGEN, researchers can monitor the entire process to ensure that the desired results are obtained.
*Table 1 Pros cons of pressure based flow controllers and peristaltic pumps*
*Figure 1 Fluigent setup used to demonstrate the importance of flow stability in vascular models*
[](https://beonchip.com/peristaltic-vs-pressure-based/)
### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based flow controllers
Flow control for Organ on Chip is crucial to maintaining liquid flow stability in long-term experiments. Although [peristaltic pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/ "peristaltic pumps") offer the ability to create a closed loop of liquid flow, they have some limitations in terms of stability over time, making it necessary to repeatedly calibrate the flow rate. Additionally, the pulse issue at low flow rates is significantly higher than with syringe pumps.
In contrast, modern microfluidic pressure controllers offer a higher degree of precision and stability in flow rate control, and are particularly useful when working with dead-end channels or large sample volumes. As such, they have become increasingly popular for experiments where flow control for Organ on Chip applications calls for high flow responsiveness, stability and accuracy.
To demonstrate the importance of flow stability in vascular models, endothelial cells were seeded in microfluidic chips and then perfused either using a peristaltic pump or pressure-based flow controllers.
## Materials and methods
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic valve controller for flow redirection
SWITCH EZ
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/switch-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Valve
L-SWITCH™ 6-port/2-position
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/l-switch/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
[
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
BE-Doubleflow
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
## Fluid recirculation system
Figure 2 shows the operating principle of the recirculation system built with pressure-based flow controllers for our study of the importance of flow control in organ on chip applications. Two Flow EZ devices are connected to two reservoirs. Tubing passes through the L-SWITCH (allowing media recirculation), a flow unit, and the microfluidic device.
In the system using the peristaltic pump, the inlet and outlet tubing are both placed in a reservoir containing media which continuously flows within the microfluidic device. In both systems, the flow rate was monitored with a Flow Unit to evaluate fluctuations.
*Figure 2 operating principle of the recirculation system*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Results
HBEC-i cells are seeded at ~80% confluency in both chips. Before flowing liquid to the microfluidic devices, the two cell cultures are similar in term of viability and confluency.
In this experiment, which addresses the importance of flow control in organ on chip applications, culture medium is recirculated to ensure a continuous supply of nutrients and O2 to the cells. Medium recirculation is performed using the Flow EZ (pressure-based flow controllers) or a peristaltic pump in each microfluidic device with a set flow rate of 50 µl/min for t = 24h. Figure 2 shows the flow rate over time using the peristaltic pump (in orange) and the Flow EZ (in blue). Using the peristaltic pump, the flow rate fluctuates greatly, more than 40% variation in flow rate compared to the target value.
When using the Flow EZ, we observe a highly stable flow rate with less than 2% flow variation.
*Figure 3 Flow rate as a function of time using peristaltic pump and pressure based flow controller Flow EZ*
*Figure 4 Contrast and fluorescence microscopy images of HBEC 5i cells seeded in BE Flow microfluidic devices after t=24h of flow at 50µLmin*
*Table 2 Summary of results obtained by comparing peristaltic pump and pressure based flow control for Organ on Chip applications*
After 24h of media recirculation, we observe a decrease in cell density with the peristaltic pump when compared to t=0, suggesting that the large flow rate fluctuations have led to cell detachment. Cells exhibit a round shape, as opposed to the well spread cells with trigonal shape observed before perfusion. This suggests that, even when not detached, cells show less adhesion and are less viable, and cell function might have been impacted by the poor flow conditions.
In the cell culture perfused with the Flow EZ, we observe a similar cell confluency of ~80% when compared to t=0. In addition, cells have similar spreading, with trigonal shape. These results confirm that cells perfused with the Flow EZ remained healthy and viable due to ideal flow conditions.
## Conclusion
When transitioning from traditional flask-based cell culture to microfluidics, much of our attention is directed toward the microfluidic chip. However, we also need to focus on reproducing and controlling flows that are suitable for organ-on-chip applications and allow for replication of in vivo conditions, which is crucial for successful outcomes. The choice of equipment used to emulate the flow conditions experienced by cells in vivo is crucial, since it can impact cell survival, phenotype and genetic expression.
The findings described in this application note were remarkable. Vascular cells that were cultured under irregular pulsatile flow died after only one day of perfusion. However, when subjected to a consistent laminar shear stress, comparable to real-life conditions, the cells survived and spread nicely in the microfluidic chip.
## Related resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Organ-on-chip Cell culture
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
**Published:** February 17, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to Gut-on-Chip Technology
### Why Study Intestine-On-Chip?
The intestine stands as a complex and pivotal organ, orchestrating the absorption of nutrients and water while playing a vital role in immunological functions. Serving as the primary conduit for **drug absorption**, it also hosts a diverse microbiota crucial for **digestion and nutrient absorption**. Dysfunctions in the intestine can lead to severe and chronic gut-related disorders, including Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and Irritable Bowel Syndrome.
The global rise in the incidence of intestinal disorders, particularly IBDs, underscores the need for a deeper understanding of their origins. The etiology of these disorders remains incompletely understood, with a complex interplay between the host immune system, genetics, microbiota, and environmental factors being the most widely acknowledged contributing factors.
The imbalance between pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines, along with alterations in the composition and function of the gut microbiota (dysbiosis), plays a pivotal role in these conditions.
Traditionally, research on the gut microbiome relies heavily on laboratory mice. However, these animal models often fall short when extrapolated to human contexts due to **differences in microbiota composition** and **the immune system**. Enter Gut-on-Chip technology—an innovative approach that holds promise for **more accurate and relevant investigations into intestinal functions and disorders**, bridging the gap between traditional models and human physiology.
### Organ-on-Chip Advancements for Gut Studies
In recent years, the revolutionary field of [organ-on-chip (OOC) technology](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) has emerged as a highly promising solution to **address the limitations of animal models.** This innovative approach involves replicating tissue and organ-level physiology within biologically inspired [microfluidic](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) in vitro devices. Unlike traditional 2D monoculture plates, OOC devices, particularly **gut-on-a-chip** (GOC) systems, **recreate the intricate microenvironment** found in vivo, providing a more accurate **representation of gut dynamics** and host-microbiome interactions.
Gut-on-chip technology specifically aims to **mimic the structure**, **function, and microenvironment** of the human gut. It has proven to be a powerful tool for constructing physiological models of the human gut, facilitating drug testing and development, and exploring host–microbiome interactions (1). The [BE-FLOW microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/), crafted from cyclic olefin polymer (COP), serves as an impermeable material for gases, enabling **precise control over gas concentrations** within the devices.
Furthermore, recognizing the influence of peristalsis on the differentiation of cells lining the digestive tract, devices that induce fluid flow and shear stress have been instrumental. These devices promote the **accelerated differentiation** of intestinal epithelial cells, foster the **formation of three-dimensional** **villus-like structures**, and **enhance intestinal barrier function**. This innovative technology effectively **replicates the intricate functions of the human intestine**, advancing our understanding of intestinal physiology and disease etiology.
### What are the Advantages of this Approach?
In contrast to traditional model systems, **gut-on-chip technology** provides a multitude of benefits, including **real-time observation, simulation of the intestinal microenvironment, adjustable fluid flow shear stress** (1), and a **dynamic host–microbiome interface** (1).
To establish a comprehensive **model of the human gut-on-a-chip**, we introduce a **complete system** that integrates [BE-FLOW chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/) with [Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/). This innovative setup offers precise control over the microenvironment of the intestinal epithelium, aligning more closely with its physiological state.
## Method for Developing a Human Intestine-On-Chip
### Selecting the Appropriate Microfluidic Chip to Mimic Intestinal Functions
**Introducing the BE-FLOW Gut-on-Chip Device**
The [BE-FLOW microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/) is designed with two independent channels featuring threaded inlets and outlets, allowing the seamless integration of connectors and tubing connected to fluidic controllers.
This design facilitates the application of an **independent flow rate in both channels** through any perfusion system. To prevent culture media evaporation at the beginning of the experiment (prior to perfusion initiation), water-filled reservoirs are strategically placed adjacent to the medium reservoir (refer to the scheme for details).
---
### Pressure and Flow Control Instruments for Gut-on-Chip Experiments
Fluigent positive pressure controllers utilize low air pressures (mbar) to compel a solution to ascend through an output tube, ensuring precise control over the flow rate in a microfluidic system.
The configuration of the fluidic system is illustrated in the illustration:
- [Pressure compressor RX](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/ "OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source")
- Regulator
- [FlowEZ ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Flow EZ™")(1000 mbar)
- [FlowUnit S](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/ "FLOW UNIT")
---
[
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Fluigent RX
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
P-CAP series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## How to perform Gut-on-a-Chip development?
### BE-FLOW cell culture
Before seeding, pre-warm the [Be-Flow standard device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/) in the incubator overnight to minimize the formation of air bubbles.
1. Fill the channel with 100μl of collagen at 0.1 mg/ml (in PBS 1X) and incubate at 37°C for 30min. Wash the channel by adding 100μl of PBS 1X into the inlet and by aspirating it at the outlet using P200 pipette. Repeat this step three times.
2. Aspirate PBS 1X completely before seeding.
3. Seed 1.106 Caco-2 cells resuspended in 50μl of culture media.
4. Incubate at 37°C, 5% CO2 until the cells have properly spread (2-4h).
5. Once cell spreading has occurred, add 300μl of culture medium into the medium reservoirs. Add H2O to the evaporation reservoirs and cover.
If connection to a perfusion system is not possible for more than 2 hours following cell seeding, keep the device in the incubator and renew the culture medium using a rocker as long as needed.
[For more information, read the user manual](https://beonchip.com/app/uploads/2021/09/BF-V4-estandar.pdf)
**Be-Flow coating and culture**
**Rocker**
### Microfluidic intestine-on-chip Set Up
Before setting the flow up:
- Sterilize and pre-warm the tubes and the fluidic elements overnight at 37°C.
- Set the system in a laminar flow cabinet.
- The channels and inlet/outlet wells should never be depleted of culture medium.
- Both inlets and outlets are designed to be able to use connectors (1/4’’- 28).
To work with cells, the assembly of the circuit must be carried out under sterile conditions under a biosafety cabinet. Before use, autoclave the CAPs, pneumatic tubes, threaded connections and ferrules to be used.
6. Connect all circuit components except the microfluidic device.
7. Establish a flow of ethanol (70%) for at least 15 min to sterilize the sensor and then wash with abundant sterile H2O. Dry by passing air through at maximum pressure. The sensor CANNOT be autoclaved.
8. Prime the tubes of the circuit with culture medium until there are no air bubbles
9. Remove the culture medium from the chip reservoirs (not from inlet/outlet wells) and connect the tubes to the outlet/inlet using the threaded connections and ferrules.
- The ferrules should be manipulated with the help of sterile forceps.
- Ensure that the tube is perfectly fixed.
- Remove the displaced medium from the reservoirs.
Once the system is closed, switch the flow on at 5.8µl/min (shear stress 0.02 dyn/cm²) for 4 days to promote villi formation.o Observe the system under perfusion for a few minutes to check that there are no leaks.
[For more information, download the application note. ](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/02/appnote-development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions.pdf)
## Results: Increase In Cell Density
Upon completing 4 days of continuous perfusion, the flow is halted, and the gut-on-chip system is positioned under an inverted microscope for the observation of cell behavior and differentiation. As depicted in Figure 1, there is a noticeable increase in cell density following 4 days of culture under dynamic flow conditions. Additionally, Caco-2 cells exhibit the initiation of 3D structure formation, a feature not observed under static conditions.
*Figure 1. Phase contrast images of Caco-2 monolayer in a BE-FLOW channel (A) 24h post cell seeding
before the addition of flow, and after 4 days under shear stress conditions (B), or static conditions
(C). Scale bar = 200 μm.*
## References
(1). Ashammakhi, N., Nasiri, R., Barros, N., Tebon, P., Thakor, J., & Goudie, M. et al. (2020). Gut-on-a-chip: Current progress and future opportunities. *Biomaterials*, *255*, 120196. doi: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2020.120196
## Related Resources
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [
### White paper: Organ on Chip
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/white-paper-organ-on-chip/)
- [Interviews & Testimonials### Panel Discussion & Interviews – Microfluidics & Organ-On-Chips
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-panel-discussion-interviews-2022/)
- [
### WEBINAR: An one-of-a-kind Organ-on-chip platform
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-chip-platform/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microbubble formation using the RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/)
**Published:** April 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to Microbubble Generation
### What are the applications of microbubble formation?
The microfluidic community is increasingly exploring microbubble formation due to its potential applications across various fields, including industry, life sciences, medicine, and material sciences (1).
The **controlled generation of microbubbles in microfluidic devices** holds significant promise in medicine, enabling **non-invasive imaging** of molecular events using targeted microbubbles. In the future, imaging methods are expected to be commonly employed to define pathophysiology and develop and test new therapeutic approaches for conditions such as inflammatory disorders, cancer, and cardiovascular disease (2).
Micron-sized bubbles find fundamental medical applications, serving as ultrasound contrast agents, contributing to thrombus destruction, facilitating targeted [drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/ "drug delivery"), enabling tumor destruction, and functioning as a flotation column. Moreover, intravenous injection of a stabilized solution containing sufficiently small bubbles may be considered for acute lung dysfunction (4). Microbubble generation also plays a role in **studying gas-liquid physical processes**, including the dissolution of CO2 in solvents, CO2 reaction, and sequestration. This concept extends to foams, which are formed by trapping pockets of gas in a liquid or solid (5).
### How to Remove Bubbles from Microfluidics
The occurrence of air bubbles in a liquid mirrors the process of liquid or oil droplet formation. This phenomenon initiates with the elongation of the flowing substance—be it oil, water, or air—culminating in the thinning and eventual pinch-off of the “neck” connecting the droplet or bubble to the flowing material. This pinch-off event facilitates the collapse of the droplet or bubble into a spherical shape.
In the realm of microbubble formation, **precise control over size and distribution** is paramount for various applications. Achieving **monodisperse microbubbles** is crucial for fundamental studies, simplifying the interpretation of experimental results compared to polydispersed counterparts. Monodisperse microbubbles also serve as valuable systems **for measuring essential properties** (3, 4).
Explore effective methods to [eliminate bubbles](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/avoid-air-bubbles/ "eliminate bubbles") and optimize microfluidic processes for enhanced results.
### What is the best method to generate microbubble?
The best production mode to obtain stable and [monodispersed droplets and/or microbubbles](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) follows the dripping regime, with the droplet/bubble detaching from the jet at the junction between the two immiscible phases.
Therefore, in this application note, we demonstrate that a stable and continuous formation of microbubbles can be achieved using both [**RayDrop Single Emulsion**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) and [**RayDrop Double Emulsion**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) technologies.
In addition, we also studied in depth the **parameters that affect microbubble production,** such as nozzle geometry and continuous phase flow rate.
We found that, when using RayDrop Single Emulsion, **the low-viscosity continuous phase has little impact on microbubble size formation**. Consequently, in this case, the microbubble size is a function of capillary size. Therefore, the nozzle geometry only influences the microbubble size when decoupled from the continuous phase flow.
On the other hand, we found that, using RayDrop Double Emulsion technology, the production of microbubbles with tunable size and a polydispersity index value of **less than 1% is possible**.
We conclude, therefore, that the process of microbubble formation using the [double emulsion RayDrop technique](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/ "double emulsion RayDrop technique") seems to be **more suitable for controlling the size** and **monodispersity** of microbubbles.
## How to form microbubble
### Microbubble formation methods
Microbubbles were created using the RayDrop Double Emulsion by injecting air (core phase) into an aqueous shell phase before being further engulfed by the continuous phase (Figure 1). A 1% solution of polyvinyl alcohol constitutes the liquid phases of the shell and continuous phases. The three components were pumped using a [pressure-based controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) to create microbubbles. [Flowmeters](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) were used to regulate the flow rates.
### The different geometries of the Secoya’s chip
Three different geometries were used in this note (Figure 2) to assess the advantages of using [**double emulsion Raydrop**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) (Secoya Technologies) for accurate microbubble size control.
*Figure 1 Scheme of the experimental setup used for the generation of microbubbles in Raydrop*
Geometry 1:
- a = 30 µm
- b = 70 µm
- c = 150 µm
Geometry 2:
- a = 90 µm
- b = 160 µm
- c = 450 µm
Geometry 3:
- a = 90 µm
- c = 450 µm
*Figure 2: The three geometries used in the study*
## Results of Microbubble Formation
Geometry 3 and Geometry 2 were chosen to compare the simple emulsion nozzle with the double emulsion nozzle to produce microbubbles and results are presented in Figure 3. This clearly shows the influence of the shell stream on the size of the bubbles.
****b**) Images from human skin (five cycles, 15 of 19 parameters shown). Scale bars: 200 µm (left), 25 µm (insets). Keratin 10 (K10), Keratin 14 (K14).**
*Figure 3 Comparison between Geometry 2 and 3 for a constant total water flowrate of 400 µLmin and an air flowrate Qair=100 µLmin*
Using single emulsion nozzle (Geometry 3) and a low viscosity liquid for microbubble formation, the size of the microbubbles is almost totally constrained by the geometrical parameters the lowest size will be limited by the diameter of the extraction capillary (Figure 4).
*Figure 4 Bubble diameter in function of the continuous flowrate in Geometry 3 The air flowrate Qair=20 µLmin The size variation in the studied range is 46*
---
With the double emulsion nozzle (Geometry 1 and 2), the lowest size achievable is determined by both the geometrical parameters and the stream of the shell phase (Figure 5). The presence of the shell phase stream shifts the achievable size range towards lower values.
*Figure 5 Bubble diameter in function of the shell flowrate in Geometry 2 The air flowrate Qair=110 µLmin and the continuous flowrate Qc=300 µLmin The size variation in the studied range is 5*
We can observe that with constant flow rates in the shell and core using a double emulsion nozzle, the increase of the continuous phase has no effect on the bubble size (see Figure 6).
*Figure 6 Bubbles diameter in function of the continuous phase flowrate The shell flowrate Qsh=100µLmin and the air flowrate Qair=110 µLmin*
---
The geometry of the nozzle-capillary system is the most influential factor on bubble size. To optimize the system one should make the inside diameter of the capillary equivalent to the targeted bubble size. Local restriction can be obtained by using a second nozzle attached on the entry of the extraction capillary (Figure 9). With this specific geometry, air bubbles of 30 µm diameter were generated in water at hundreds kHz.
Download the [application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/04/fluigent-application-note-bubble-generation.pdf) for more results.
Figure 9 Nozzle with a tip inside diameter of 20 µm left in front of a nozzle with a tip inside diameter of 50 µm for the generation of air bubbles of 30 to 50 µm
## Conclusion
In the last decade, microfluidic technology has emerged as one of the **most efficient methods for microbubble formation**, since it allows the generation of **highly monodisperse droplets** through the **reproducibility** of the process.
These **uniform microbubbles** are good items for the basic research of **mass-transfer and chemical reaction processes** at the micrometer scale. For the controllable application of microbubbles, the microfluidic generation mechanism used is very important.
We here show that the production of microbubbles using the **double emulsion RayDrop technique** is well-suited to **control the size** and the **monodispersity** of **microbubbles**. Of note, the geometry of the nozzle only **impacts the size** of the bubble while it is decoupled from the continuous-phase flow rate.
## Expertises & Resources
- [
### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [
### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [
### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [
### Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
## References
1. Wan, J. *et al.* (2008) “Controllable microfluidic production of microbubbles in water-in-oil emulsions and the formation of porous microparticles,” *Advanced Materials*, 20(17), pp. 3314–3318. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/adma.200800628.
2. Lindner, J.R. (2004) “Microbubbles in medical imaging: Current applications and Future Directions,” *Nature Reviews Drug Discovery*, 3(6), pp. 527–533. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/nrd1417.
3. Wang, K. *et al.* (2013) “Generating microbubbles in a co-flowing microfluidic device,” *Chemical Engineering Science*, 100, pp. 486–495. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ces.2013.02.021.
4. Xu, J.H. *et al.* (2006) “Formation of monodisperse microbubbles in a microfluidic device,” *AIChE Journal*, 52(6), pp. 2254–2259. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1002/aic.10824.
5. Parmigiani, A. *et al.* (2016) “Bubble accumulation and its role in the evolution of magma reservoirs in the Upper Crust,” *Nature*, 532(7600), pp. 492–495. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/nature17401.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Automated Immunofluorescence using Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/)
**Published:** February 15, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Abstract
In this Application Note, we introduce a novel Automated Immunofluorescence (IF) protocol that integrates the advanced [automated sequential injection system (ARIA)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/ "Automated Sequential Injection System") and Bioptechs’[ FCS2 imaging chamber](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/live-cell-imaging-chamber/ "Live cell imaging chamber"). This combination offers a breakthrough solution for researchers to achieve highly accurate and reproducible imaging results in cell and molecular biology experiments, providing a deeper insight into the intricate cellular and molecular interactions within the sample.
With this Automated IF protocol, the tedious and error-prone manual handling associated with traditional multi-step IF procedures is completely eliminated, resulting in a **faster and more reliable process**.
The application note was prepared in collaboration with Samy GOBAA (Director of the Biomaterials and Microfluidics Unit at the Pasteur Institute) and Heloïse Mary (Research Engineer at BMcf).
## Introduction to Automated Immunofluorescence
Immunofluorescence (IF) is a widely utilized analytical technique in the field of cell and molecular biology, aimed at providing insights into the localization and distribution of specific proteins within cells, tissues, and organisms. The technique employs the use of antibodies, which can be conjugated with fluorescent markers or revealed through the use of secondary fluorescent antibodies, to target the specific proteins and enable visualization through the use of fluorescent microscopy. (1)
Automated immunofluorescence streamlines the multistep process of IF, which comprises several crucial steps, such as cell fixation, cell permeabilization, blocking of nonspecific binding sites, and direct or indirect staining, followed by several washing steps. The traditional approach to performing these steps has been through manual pipetting, however, this method is time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies due to human error in terms of solution volume and flow rate (2).
In recent times, there has been a growing emphasis on automating laboratory protocols to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and reproducibility of results. Microfluidics has played a significant role in this advancement, by offering [precise control of fluid flow](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-flow-control-technologies-strengths-and-weaknesses/ "precise control of fluid flow") and [volume ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/volumetric-control-technologies/ "volume ")in complex analytical procedures such as IF.
In this application note, we present an Automated Immunofluorescence Protocol that leverages the capabilities of the automated sequential injection system, ARIA, in combination with the imaging chamber FCS2 from Bioptechs. This protocol offers a marked improvement in terms of accuracy and reproducibility, compared to the traditional manual pipetting method, while also increasing the overall efficiency of the process.
The fluid delivery procedure is coupled with the [Zeiss Axio Observer](https://www.zeiss.fr/microscopie/produits/light-microscopes/axio-observer-pour-la-biologie.html "Zeiss Axio Observer") for imaging purposes, although the protocol can be adapted to other imaging systems.
We are grateful to Samy GOBAA (Head of the Biomaterials and Microfluidics core facility at Institut Pasteur) and Heloïse Mary (Research Engineer at BMcf) for their contributions to this application note, including the provision of essential lab equipment and invaluable advice.
## Materials & Methods: Immunofluorescence protocol
### Materials:
- **[ARIA ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/ "ARIA ")single output**
- **[Bioptechs Live Cell Imaging Chamber (FCS2)](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/live-cell-imaging-chamber/ "Live cell imaging chamber")**
- **Widefield Microscope** (in this app note we used a Zeiss Axio Observer)
- [
Platform for Spatial Omics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- [
Automated Multiplexed Imaging Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/multiplexed-imaging-platform/)
*Figure 1 Automated Immunofluorescence Protocol Setup*
### Methods :
To perform the automated immunofluorescence protocol, preliminary steps of cell preparation and FCS2 chamber preparation are necessary.
- **Cell and coverslip preparation:** Clean and coat round coverslips (40mm) with EtOH 70%, plasma, and collagen at 50µg/ml. Incubate for 1h @ 37°C. Seed HUVECs onto coverslips in EGM-2 medium for 1-2h to adhere.
- **Fixation** (manual or automated): Wash cells with PBS 1X, then fix with 4% PFA in PBS 1X for 20min. Rinse with PBS 1X to remove PFA.
- **FCS2 chamber assembly:** Mount coverslip on white part of chamber, hydrate with PBS 1X, close chamber, and place on microscope stage.
- **Automated Immunofluorescence:** Permeabilize with 0.1% Triton 100X in PBS 1X for 15min, wash with PBS, block with PBS 1X + 2% BSA for 20min, wash with PBS, and stain with a cocktail of fluorescent antibodies (DAPI, Phalloidin-AF488, UEA-1-lectin DyLight 647).
***ARIA unit preparation:***
To create a custom automated immunofluorescence program, ARIA needs to be prepared.
- Connect ARIA to pressure source (either a [FLPG](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/) unit or directly on the wall pressure source), min. 2.2 bar and computer using USB cable.
- Open ARIA software and [calibrate the unit.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/tutorials/aria-tutorial-episode-5-perform-a-calibration-with-aria-automated-cell-perfusion-fluigent/)
- Create custom IF program:
- Add steps by clicking “plus” button.
- For solution injection, choose “Volume Injection” and select reservoir.
- Set fluid delivery parameters (flow rate and volume).
- For incubation, add “Wait” step after injection and set timing.
- Repeat steps for entire IF protocol.
*Figure 2 Automated IF protocol using Aria Automation Software*
*Figure 3 ARIA automated sequential injection system*
[Download the technical note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/03/tech-note-aria-automated-immunofluorescence.pdf)
## Results: Image acquisition
To acquire our images, we here used a Zeiss Axio Observer (inverted widefield microscope).
*Please note that any microscope can be used to acquire your images as for any IF experiment.*
*Figure 3. Primary human endothelial cells (HUVECs) stained with Phalloidin-AF488 for F-actin visualization, UEA1-lectin-DyLight as a membrane marker of endothelial cells and DAPI for nuclei staining. Images were acquired on a Zeiss widefield microscopy at 40X magnification.*
## Conclusion
This [Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/02/app-note-automated-immunofluorescence-protocol-using-aria.pdf "Application Note") highlights the benefits of using the ARIA system and the FCS2 imaging chamber for automated immunofluorescence procedures. Our findings demonstrate that this method results in a faster and more efficient process, with a total time of 4 hours and 30 minutes. This is a significant time saving compared to traditional manual pipetting, which can take up to 1 hour and 30 minutes longer.
The automation of this process allows researchers to perform other tasks simultaneously, freeing up valuable time and resources. Furthermore, this protocol is versatile and can be applied to cells on coverslips and cells or tissues in microfluidic chips, making it a useful tool for cell and molecular biology research.
## **References:**
1. Im K, Mareninov S, Diaz MFP, Yong WH. An Introduction to Performing Immunofluorescence Staining. Methods Mol Biol. 2019;1897:299-311. doi: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8935-5\_26. PMID: 30539454; PMCID: PMC6918834.
2. Lim, Jeffrey Chun Tatt & Yeong, Joe & Lim, Chun Jye & Ong, Clara & Wong, Siew-Cheng & Chew, Valerie & Ahmed, Syed & Tan, Puay & Iqbal, Jabed. (2018). An automated staining protocol for 7-colour immunofluorescence of human tissue sections for diagnostic and prognostic use. Pathology. 50. 10.1016/j.pathol.2017.11.087.
## Related content
- [
### Platform for Spatial Omics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Cancer Cell Analysis Made Easy with Aria: cell Capture and Labeling](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capture-and-labeling-of-cancer-cells-using-aria/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
**Published:** May 16, 2023
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## Why perform recirculation for Organ-on-a-Chip studies?
Organ-on-a-chip technology requires stable fluid perfusion to [mimic physiological conditions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biomechanics/) resembling those *in-vivo* (1). Long-term recirculation of the medium through a microfluidic chip offers several benefits, including simulating relevant biological dynamics, studying enriched fluid with cell secretion factors, and enabling long-term experiments while supplying the environment with nutrients and oxygen. Different technologies (2) can be used for medium recirculation, including gravity-driven flow, syringe pumps, and peristaltic pumps, which present [some limitations](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/) in terms of volume, low accuracy of flow rates, low responsiveness, etc.
Figure 1: From living organs to organs-on-chip (1).
## Omi: Fluigent’s recirculation system
Our [pressure pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) technology provides accurate and stable flow profiles, making it ideal for long-term cell culture under controlled shear stress conditions.
Designed with advanced technology, the user-friendly device provides highly accurate data for Organ-on-a-Chip researchers.
Omi is equipped with:
- Fluidic paths allowing for simple perfusion or fluid recirculation along with check valves preventing backflow.
- Liquid level sensors indicating when the reservoirs need to be refilled.
- Sterile cartridges with interconnection and locking technology
Omi organ-on-chip platform is a smart device that can be controlled manually or remotely, with data stored on the cloud.
Fluigent’s Omi is designed specifically for OOAC applications enabling medium recirculation for long-term cell culture under flow.
## Easy setup & protocol editing using Omi
### Materials & methods
In this technical note, we analysed Omi’s ability to maintain a long-term recirculation cycle.
We used [Omi recirculation system](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/) along with the Be-flow microfluidic chip from Beonchip to recirculate distilled water over a 14-day period. Various flow rates were applied (5, 10 and 50 µL/min).
We used Omi software via the included tablet to build our automated protocol, including calibration, sterilization, loading, and recirculation.
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies with this automated and fully integrated system (Shear stress, flow rate, and pressure control).
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/omi-software-interface.jpg)Figure 2 Omi software interface
## Results: Omi recirculation platform: High flow rate accuracy & responsiveness
Cycles of fluid recirculation can be monitored using tablet software or the web interface. As shown in the figure below, values of flow rate and pressure rate are measured over time, herein over a small section only to have a better view of the graph.
Figure 3 shows 2 recirculation cycles at a very stable flow rate (50 µL/min) in orange and an autoregulated pressure rate in purple. Between these 2 cycles, there is a refill step during which the flow rate drops to 0 to allow the fluid to pass from one reservoir to the other.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/flow-rate-and-pressure-rate-monitoring-over-time.png)Figure 3: Flow rate and pressure rate monitoring over time for 50 µL/min
## Conclusion
Omi is Fluigent’s newest contribution to the Organ-on-a-Chip research field. It enables the long-term recirculation of fluid with high flow rate accuracy and responsiveness, along with real-time monitoring of experiments.
Omi is an automated organ-on-a-chip recirculation system ideal for in-vitro cell culture under biologically relevant shear stresses. It can perform different protocols based on your experimental needs, such as: perfusion, recirculation, dosing, or sampling. It’s suitable for testing different kinds of drugs, toxins, and metabolites.
## References
1. Wu, Q.; Liu, J.; Wang, X.; Feng, L.; Wu, J.; Zhu, X.; Wen, W.; Gong, X. Organ-on-a-chip: Recent breakthroughs and future prospects. Biomed. Eng. Online 2020, 19, 9.
2. Byun, C.K.; Abi-Samra, K.; Cho, Y.K.; Takayama, S. Pumps for microfluidic cell culture. Electrophoresis 2014, 35, 245–257.
## Related products
- [
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies with this automated and fully integrated system (Shear stress, flow rate, and pressure control).
See the product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
- [
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
See the product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
- [
### Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
See the product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
## Related Expertise
- [
### WEBINAR: An one-of-a-kind Organ-on-chip platform
Watch the replay](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-chip-platform/)
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies A microfluidic Artery-on-a-Chip using Fluigent’s Microfluidic Flow Control System, the MFCS Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/artery-on-a-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Creating a Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform using Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Pressure predictions for lab-on-chip operations using a microfluidic network solver and Fluigent PX ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-network-solver/)
**Published:** July 7, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to pressure prediction
Microfluidic flow protocols have evolved to allow multiple fluidic tasks to be integrated into a single device, making it increasingly important to ensure reliable flow control via excellent **flow rate and operating pressure prediction**. More precisely, predicting the pressures required to reach the desired flow rates with a given configuration and [hydrodynamic resistance](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/) has become essential. To this end, “**microfluidic design automation**”1 tools have been developed. By defining resistive networks, it is possible to predict the flow rate within the microfluidic network (MFN).
We report the use of our pressure-based flow controller [Fluigent PX](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/) for the development of a **microfluidic platform managing fluids** with a **microfluidic network solver**. The software is called mfnSolver. The platform allows for **accurate prediction of pressure settings** with **excellent response time** for operations at steady state. It also enables knowledge about on-chip pressure drop and flow characteristics to be gained. The microfluidic automated operations are demonstrated by making laminar co-flow of up to four components, and variable-composition droplets in several regimes (dripping, transition, jetting) from up to three components.
## Predicting operating pressures with a microfluidic network solver
### Materials & methods
**Microfluidic flow control**
- Pressure-based flow controller: Fluigent PX 1 bar. The quality of set and display pressure are shown below.
- Reservoirs: Fluiwell-4C 2 mL vials screwed to the rack for pressure connection.
- Flow sensors: Fluigent Flow Unit M (0 – 80 µL/min).
- Flow control software: Fluigent A-i-O software (now [OxyGen](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/oxygen/ "OxyGen")).
### Microfluidic chip:
- Chip: flow-focusing unit (FFU) of the Leibniz-IPHT PDG2 Droplet Generator Chip (PDG2). The PDG2 chip has 4 inlets (P1, P2, P3, P5) and 1 outlet (P4)1.
- Channel width: 165 µm before the flow focusing region, 200 µm at the observation chamber, and 150 µm otherwise – Channel height: 100 µm.
- Surface treatment (for droplet generation): PlusOne Repel-Silane ES (solution of Dimethyldichlorosilane (2% w/v) in Octamethylcyclotetrasiloxane).
### Buffer and Reagents:
• Dye solutions: 2 mmol/L Bromophenol blue solution (Sigma-Aldrich) for which 13 mg of the sodium salt dye was dissolved in 10 mL sodium phosphate buffer – 4.9 mmol/L Orange G solution containing 22 mg disodium salt dye in a 10 mL buffer
• Surfactant for droplet generation: Fluigent dSurf (2% surfactant in Novec™ 7500)
### mfnSolver:
The microfluidic network solver developed by Böke *et al.* gives the pressure and flow rate at all defined nodes and edges of the chip1. It can solve a complete microfluidic system in less than 200ms. The user only has to define the flow rates along arbitrary edges of the network for the solver to compute the differential pressure required to reach them. In addition, the mfnSolver can help users to design and optimize microfluidic components, predict network performance, and automate the operation of devices based on pressure-driven fluid management.
*Figure 1 Schematic representation of the solver concept and its purpose*
## Partial results
### Microfluidic system implementation:
The output prediction for a standard flow rate of 0.16 µL/min is shown in Figure 2. The microfluidic network solver **gives the predicted pressure** that corresponds to the input operating pressure for experimental validation.
*Figure 2 mfnSolver output with predicted pressure settings for the feedlines to create laminar coflow top and multi component droplet flow bottom in the PDG2 chip device1*
### Experimental validation:
Fluigent [flow sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/) are integrated into the fluidic feedline to monitor the flow rate during the experiment set to confirm the predicted flow characteristics.
The graphs in Figure 4 display the comparison between the flow rate predictions according to the input pressure and the experimental results provided by the flow meter for laminar co-flow and droplet flow.
*Figure 4 Correlation of pressure settings predicted by the mfnSolver with experimental results for the co flow and droplet models1*
[Read the full application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-predictions-for-lab-on-a-chip-operations-using-a-microfluidic-network-solver-and-fluigent-px/)
## Conclusion
In this application note, we have reported that the **microfluidic network solver** mfnSolver is a tool for **reliable and easy lab-on-chip operations,** thanks to its fast and accurate operating pressure predictions at steady state and its support in obtaining information about on-chip pressure drop and flow characteristics.
With the growing complexity of microfluidic setups, the automation of fluid management is becoming a non-negligeable advantage. Fluigent PX helped in the development of this flow automation project as a solution to provide flows with excellent accuracy and response time.
## Related product
- [
### Fluigent PX
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-px/)
- [
### FS Series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fs-series/)
## Related content
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [
### Contamination-free Liquid Handling System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/contamination-free-liquid-handling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key considerations for fluidic system integration
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/integrating-fluidics-into-your-system/)
## References
1. Böke, J. S., Kraus, D. & Henkel, T. Microfluidic Network Simulations Enable On-Demand Prediction of Control Parameters for Operating Lab-on-a-Chip-Devices. Processes 9, 1320 (2021).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Protocol - UV crosslinked microcapsule production platform](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/protocol-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
**Published:** March 13, 2024
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [High-speed Microscope Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/digital-high-speed-camera-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 9, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [User Manual - UV Module](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/uv-module/)
**Published:** March 13, 2024
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Datasheet - UV crosslinked microcapsule production platform](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production-platform/)
**Published:** March 13, 2024
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [UV-C and microfluidics for biofilm studies as a new experimentation method](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/uvc-microfluidics-for-biofilm-studies/)
**Published:** March 5, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## A paper from the Toulouse Institute of Fluid Mechanics
Ramos, G.; Toulouze, C.; Rima, M.; Liot, O.; Duru, P.; Davit, Y. Ultraviolet Control of Bacterial Biofilms in Microfluidic Chips. *Biomicrofluidics* **2023**, *17* (2), 024107. .
[The institute of Fluid Mechanics](https://www.imft.fr/) (University of Toulouse – CNRS) specializes in three main fields of application: engineering, life mechanics, and environmental fluid mechanics. Since the 1980s, the institute has continuously developed new research topics, including microfluidics, and publishes about a hundred papers per year. One of the institute’s many areas of expertise is porous and biological media, and the study of biofilms helps to characterize these environments. Under the leadership of fluidic expert [Dr. Paul Duru](https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Paul-Duru-84713550), their research is at the interface between health and the environment, and they use microfluidic tools to carry out their projects.
Researchers from IMFT, led by [Dr. Yohan Davit](http://yohan-davit.com/) and in collaboration with the Laboratory of Chemical Engineering, have developed a new, reliable, and representative approach using UV-C emissions combined with microfluidics for biofilm studies.
This work is part of an [ERC Sarting Grant](https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/803074/fr) and experiments were performed at the BioPorousLab.
## What is a bacterial biofilm?
All microorganisms have conditions that favor their development and growth. When their optimal conditions are no longer respected, or when they feel attacked by antibiotics or the immune system, bacteria **leave their planktonic form to create a biofilm adhering to a support and become sessile** (**Figure 1**).
Biofilms also constitute a set of **cellular networks** in which cells communicate with each other, adapt to their environment by modifying their gene expression. Environmental changes and chemical communication between cells enable the **uptake and production of signaling molecules**. These mechanisms give rise to an adaptation known as **quorum sensing**.1 bacteria synthetize molecules called **Auto-Inducers (AI).** When these molecules reach a certain threshold, they activate an AI regulator which is also a transcription factor, to form a complex that r**egulates gene expression.**2
Figure 1 Microscopic image of biofilm on a catheter
Thanks to quorum sensing, bacterial biofilm can settle on any surface and **resists a wide range of treatments.** **Consequently, they are the source of real industrial and health problems that cause many serious or acute infections.** They are also a source of other problems described in the following table (**Table 1**).3 In addition to affecting numerous **societal and industrial factors**, biofilms also impact the **economic performance** of various sectors, costing $5 trillion per year (**Figure 2**).4
**Studying bacterial biofilms is essential** for a better understanding of their formation mechanisms to control their progression and limit their negative impacts. However, their complexity makes it **difficult to culture and study their resistance mechanisms**.
Figure 2. Biofilms impact on different sectors of activity.4
**Problem****Antibiotic resistance** **Immune system resistance** **Industrial problems** Reasons – Explications Modification of their physiological properties – Their size prevents phagocytosis
– Extracellular matrix prevents antibodies action – Pipe colonization
– Biofilm formation on ship hulls
– Food spoilage
Table 1 : Problems caused by biofilms.
## What we already know about their formation
Th**e formation of this biofilm** takes place in several stages, forming a two-phase cycle, reversible or irreversible, each consisting of different distinct stages: **motility, adhesion, maturation, dispersal, and propagation** of the biofilm.5 During biofilm formation, bacteria secrete polymers called **exopolysaccharides** or EPS (Extracellular Polymeric Substances) to form a **protective extracellular matrix** (**Figure 3**).
Figure 3. Biofilm formation cycle.6
## Current methods of bacterial biofilm studies
To better understand their mechanisms, **several experimental approaches** have been developed to study biofilms. The traditional method is **microtiter plate culture** followed by staining. It is based on the principle of incubating bacteria on a plate to promote their growth. Growth is then measured by absorbance after the addition of crystal violet (**Figure 4**).3,7 Although this technique is fast, it has a **few drawbacks**. For example, it is **difficult to reproduce all the environmental conditions** conducive to biofilm development with this study model. This model provides results at a fixed point in time, preventing the analysis of biofilms over a long period of time, **complicating our understanding of their mechanisms**. With the microtiter plate method, we **can’t observe and study early and mature biofilms,** which are **best associated with microfluidic systems**.8,9
Figure 4. Traditional method to culture biofilms by microtiter plates and crystal violet.7
## Microfluidic for biofilm studies
**Microfluidics appears to be a promising approach** for studying bacterial biofilms, offering solutions to problems classically encountered with other techniques. It can **reproduce the physiological conditions** required for biofilm development, **due to its precise flow control.** Also, microfluidic chips can **imitate chemical, physical, and biological variations** as occurred in a natural environment.8 This is particularly true for flow-cell culture (**Figure 5**).
**Device** **Application** **Advantages** **Limitations** Microtiter plate – Screening for biofilm formation capacity.
– Test of anti-biofilm. compounds. – High-Throughput.
Inexpensive.
– No need for advanced equipment apart from plate reader.
– Dedicated microscopic-grade microplates allow noninvasive imaging. – Loosely attached biofilm may not be measured correctly (can be detached during washing steps).
– Sensitive to sedimentation.
– End-point measurement.
– Match mode.
– Exhaustion of nutrients.
– Direct inspection difficult
– Usually only short-term experiments.
– Possible interference with liquid-air pellicle.
– Sometimes poor reproducibility
Results person or laboratory dependent.
– Assessment possible only at sufficiently high cell density.
– Not suitable for investigating early stages of biofilm formation. Microfluidics It can be designed for special purposes, e.g, mimicking air-liquid interfaces, provide in situ mixing of reagents, include customized measuring devices. – Can be custom made for specific purposes.
– Versatile.
– Compatible with single cells analysis. – Requires special equipment for manufacturing and running systems.
– It can be expensive.
– Operation can be tedious.
– Clogging can occur due to small dimensions. Table 2 : Table of application, advantages, and limitations of devices for biofilm studies.9
## Aim of the study
To take the study of biofilm via microfluidics a step further, researchers from the **Institute of Fluid Mechanics** demonstrated **the possibility of confining biofilms using UltraViolet-C (UV-C) in a specific location of interest within a microfluidic chip**; thus, maintaining initial channel flow for **longer experiments**.
In this bacterial biofilm study, different configurations are tested to prove the **efficacy of UV-C against biofilm development**, integrating a **Fluigent** [**MFCS™ series**](https://store.fluigent.com/products/mcfs-series/) **and** [**Flow Unit**](https://store.fluigent.com/products/flow-unit-s/). The aim here was to limit the biofilm formation outside the zone of interest.
## Control of biofilm formation in microfluidic chips
Figure 6 Experimental set up of the microfluidic for biofilm study
To study and culture bacterial biofilm, a microfluidic chip was made of PDMS, which contained **inlet and outlet mixing zones**. At the center of the chip, a **network of channels** was designed in a « honeycomb » pattern, where biofilms were formed. The microfluidic chip was observed using a Nikon Eclipse Ti2-E inverted microscope, x4 objective, and imaged by an sCMOS camera. Microscopic images of the chip were captured automatically every hour.
The [**MFCS™ series pressure pump**](https://store.fluigent.com/products/mcfs-series/) generated a **constant fluid flow rate** of the culture medium, which was controlled by the [Fluigent Flow Unit S](https://store.fluigent.com/products/flow-unit-s/). Both instruments were connected to **Fluigent software** (Oxygen, latest version of A-i-O) to adapt the pressure according to the required flow rate (**Figure 6**). Together, the **MFCS series and Flow Unit** enabled precise distribution of a culture medium at a flow rate of 2 µL/min to the microfluidic chip, where **GFP-coupled *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*** bacteria have been pre-inoculated at a flow rate of 8 µL/min.
The PDMS used for the chip is a material known for its many advantages but is unable to isolate biofilms in an area of interest. Here, to limit biofilm formation at the inlet and outlet of the chip, **UV-C was projected** onto a mirror to reflect the rays onto a microfluidic chip in the following configuration (**Figure 7**).
*Figure *7*. (A) UV-C emission device on mixing areas. (B) Areas of the chip (purple) receiving UV-C emissions*
## Results: UltraViolet-C system limits biofilm formation in mixing zones.
The biofilm in the microfluidic chip was first observed with and without the presence of UV-C at the mixing zones by **measuring the intensity of the GFP** and by **visualization in bright field** (gray levels) microscopy. The presented results were obtained after 48 hours of cultivation within the microfluidic chip.
The B configuration, which was **subjected to UV-C** at the mixing zones, has significantly **less biofilm** at the input and output of the chip, unlike the A configuration, where biofilms were developed on the entire chip (**Figure 8.A**). In the B configuration, especially on the bright field images, we can see that biofilm has formed at the output (**Figure 8.B**).
This is due to the **movement of the biofilm from the area of interest towards the outlet**, which are **more resistant to UV-C** than the bacterium in its planktonic form. The number of biofilms created remained minimal compared to the A configuration without lightning, **proving the effectiveness of UV-C**.
Figure 8. Biofilm formation after 48 hours of culture in the presence (B) or not (A) of UV-C
Figure 9 Relative intensity of integrated fluorescence at inlet and outlet with or without UV C exposure
The relative intensity of the GFP (in arbitrary units) confirms the microscopic images obtained. This intensity was measured at the inlet and outlet of the microfluidic chip with and without the presence of UV-C (**Figure 9**). Whether at the inlet or outlet, the **biofilm formation was significantly higher without exposure to UV-C**. These results once again showed that after exposure to UV-C, the presence of biofilm in the microfluidic chip was more important at the outlet.
Regarding the flow, **the passage of fluids was followed** by tracking the particle’s velocimetry (**Figure 10**). The results showed that **without UV-C**, the culture medium flowed only within a **single channel** of the microfluidic chip, as well as in the two mixing zones. The formation of biofilm at these two zones **prevents the uniform diffusion** of the flow within the area of interest, forming a single distribution channel. Meanwhile, in the case of **exposure to UV-C**, the culture medium was able to flow within **several channels** and at the mixing zones, thus proving the **effectiveness of UV-C as blockers of biofilm formation**.
Figure 10 Velocimetry indicating the flow path through the microfluidic system
Finally, in addition to allowing a better flow distribution within the chip, the **effectiveness of UV-C in long-term experiments was evaluated** (**Figure 11**). The same experiment as in Figure 8 was reproduced but for longer culture times (5 and 7 days). The results obtained were like Figure 8. In the presence of UV-C, **biofilm formation at the mixing zones was limited**. Even though some biofilms are present at the outlet, due to their displacements from the area of interest to the outlet, no biofilms were found at the inlet even after a week.
Figure 11 GFP fluorescence representing biofilm formation after different UV C exposure times
## Testimonial
“Our lab uses microfluidics to study bacteria in a range of different conditions. We are trying to **understand how biofilm-forming organisms**, such as *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* or *Staphylococcus aureus*, interact with flows; what type of **spatio-temporal dynamics** results from couplings between growth, **transport mechanisms** and **flow-induced detachment**; and how **ecological interactions**, such as predation or competition for nutrients, affect these dynamics.
**Microfluidic experiments involving bacteria are unforgiving:** the smallest flaw in the equipment, design, protocols or realization will likely r**esult in a complete failure**. Biological organisms further demand **strong statistics**, with systematic replication of long and difficult experiments.
We use the **pressure pumps and flow sensors from Fluigent** to ensure **precise and reliable control** of the flow conditions over a broad range of flow rates and pressures. The feedback control between the pressure pump and the flow sensor **makes it possible to easily switch** between imposing a pressure difference, while measuring the flow rate, or imposing the flow rate, while measuring pressure fluctuations. The **stability of Fluigent equipment,** combined with our UVC system or automatized microscopy, has also made it possible to measure the **dynamics of biofilm development over week-long experiments** and paves the way towards even longer experiments.”
**Yohan Davit, PhD – IMFT**
## Conclusion
In this paper, researchers from **The Toulouse Institute of Fluid Mechanics** (University of Toulouse – CNRS) highlighted the **study of biofilm via microfluidics as a new model for experimentation**. The use of **Fluigent products**, including the [MFCS™ series pump](https://store.fluigent.com/products/mcfs-series/) and [Flow Unit](https://store.fluigent.com/products/flow-unit-s/), has contributed to **reproducible and consistent results**. Selecting suitable materials for microfluidics is essential for carrying out a quality experiment. They have implemented a technique that frames the development of these biofilms within the area of interest, allowing not only a controlled flow of fluids within the chip, but also allowing the **increase of experimental times** to mimic biofilm mechanisms. This microfluidic method seems to be the most suitable for the study of biofilms, especially when coupled with UV-C as in this case. **New experimentations** could pave the way for **new applications of microfluidic for biofilm studies**.
[Read the full article](https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0135722)
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
## Expertises & Resources
- [Support & Tools### Pressure & Flow Rate Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Cell Biology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Water analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/water-treatment/)
- [### Microfluidic Markets & Applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
## References
1\. Mukherjee, S. & Bassler, B. L. Bacterial quorum sensing in complex and dynamically changing environments. *Nat. Rev. Microbiol.* **17**, 371–382 (2019).
2\. Sharma, A., Singh, P., Sarmah, B. K. & Nandi, S. P. Quorum sensing: its role in microbial social networking. *Res. Microbiol.* **171**, 159–164 (2020).
3\. Roux, A. & Ghigo, J.-M. Les biofilms bactériens. *Bull. Académie Vét. Fr.* **159**, 261–268 (2006).
4\. Highmore, C. J. *et al.* Translational challenges and opportunities in biofilm science: a BRIEF for the future. *Npj Biofilms Microbiomes* **8**, 68 (2022).
5\. Rather, M. A., Gupta, K. & Mandal, M. Microbial biofilm: formation, architecture, antibiotic resistance, and control strategies. *Braz. J. Microbiol.* **52**, 1701–1718 (2021).
6\. Biofilm Formation Cycle by BioRender adapted to Crouzet, M. *et al.* Exploring early steps in biofilm formation: set-up of an experimental system for molecular studies. *BMC Microbiol* **14**, 253 (2014).
7\. Campo-Pérez, V., Alcàcer-Almansa, J., Julián, E. & Torrents, E. A High-Throughput Microtiter Plate Screening Assay to Quantify and Differentiate Species in Dual-Species Biofilms. *Microorganisms* **11**, 2244 (2023).
8\. O’Toole, G. A. Microtiter Dish Biofilm Formation Assay. *J. Vis. Exp. JoVE* 2437 (2011) doi:10.3791/2437.
9\. Azeredo, J. *et al.* Critical review on biofilm methods. *Crit. Rev. Microbiol.* **43**, 313–351 (2017).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Panel Discussion & Interviews - Microfluidics & Organ-On-Chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-panel-discussion-interviews-2022/)
**Published:** January 30, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Fluigent’s panel discussion event on the topic ” Microfluidics & Organ-On-Chips “
As a global leader in the microfluidics industry, Fluigent hosted 2 panel discussions on **key microfluidic topics**.
We were lucky enough to interview Claudia Gärtner, Stéphanie Descroix, Valerie Taly, Sylvie Klieber, Nathalie Maubon, Martin Knight & Jose Luis Garcia-Cordero, six scientific & industrial Key Opinion Leaders who kindly shared their insights about their respective fields and the benefits of microfluidics.
Hear our esteemed panelists to learn how microfluidics is accelerating the pace of research and industrial workflows.
📍Chimie ParisTech – PSL, Paris, France. November 8 2022
Topic 1: **The Microfluidic Revolution Panel** : Learn how microfluidics is accelerating the pace of research and industrial workflows.
Topic 2: **Organ-On-Chip & Industrial Adoption Panel** : Where we discussed the industrial adoption of organ-on-a-chip and debate on where biology and technology must meet for more advances in in vitro organ on chip models.
## Microfluidics Interviews of our scientific & industrial Key Opinion Leaders
Speakers are giving a glimpse of their work. We are focusing of what is driving them in their work and how they ended-up working with microfluidics.
### Dr. Martin Knight, Professor of mechanobiology at Queen Mary university of London.
Hear his thoughts on how #microfluidics and Fluigent’s instruments are helping him develop new #OOAC models to answer fundamental biological questions.
### Dr. Stéphanie Descroix, CNRS Researcher Director at Institut Curie & Institut Pierre Gilles de Gennes.
Hear her thoughts on how #microfluidics and Fluigent’s instruments are helping her develop new approaches in the field of tumor biomarkers and #OrganOnAChip models for mimicking the in-vitro microenvironment.
**Catégories de ressource:** Interviews & Testimonials, Lectures
---
### [Interview with Benoit Scheid from Secoya](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/interview-with-benoit-scheidfrom-secoya/)
**Published:** January 14, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Content:**
## Start-up background
- ***Can you briefly introduce yourself ? What does your job involve?***
Benoit Scheid, Senior Researcher, FNRS (National Foundation for Scientific Research).
Professor at the “Université Libre de Bruxelles”, teaching microfluidics to bioengineers and biomedical engineers.
Research activities focusing on process-orientated microfluidics.
Chairman of the Secoya board and scientific advisor.
- ***What made you decide to launch this project?***
Other developments achieved in parallel at the laboratory concerning continuous-flow crystallisation and liquid/liquid separation by microfluidic pervaporation led us to consider the creation of a single spin-off which would make use of each of the technologies developed at the lab. All the researchers involved agreed with the idea of joining forces and embarking on the venture together, convinced that our technological complementarity would be a bonus for the success of the company.
- ***Can you introduce your start-up and its history? What role does Secoya play and when did your adventure begin?***
The idea for a start-up had been in the air since 2012, as the success of several research projects subsidised at the laboratory were the creation of a spin-off. However, the venture really began to take shape in 2016 with a project for the high-frequency generation of micro droplets. Thanks to a unique combination of manufacturing techniques, the system developed proved to be extremely promising for possible industrial use. We were ready to take the plunge.
- ***In what business sector is your startup? Why use microfluidics in this sector?***
The pharmaceutical industry. This sector is very conservative with regard to the manner in which its active ingredients are produced but it is currently making a significant shift towards intensifying processes, fuelled by recent developments in microfluidics. There is an awareness that the sector has been trailing in this innovative field for quite a number of years and a conviction that this shift will bring significant benefits. The production volumes in this sector are also sufficiently low to be compatible with microfluidic technologies. Lastly, this is a sector producing high added value products, making it an excellent entry point.
## Microfluidic advantages
- ***What are microfluidics? What is a microfluidic chip?***
Microfluidics is the art of handling fluids at submillimetric scale, and by extension, the handling of micrometric objects (particles, crystals, cells, bacteria, etc.) within these fluids.
A microfluidic chip is an object of a similar size to a microelectronic chip and is manufactured using similar techniques.
A microfluidic chip incorporates functions enabling various operations to be performed, ranging from biological diagnostics to the production of molecules.
- ***Microfluidics and medicine seem very far removed from each other. How do things actually stand?***
These disciplines are very close in fact. Medicine has been using microfluidics for a long time. A pregnancy test is a microfluidic system in its most basic form. Today, increasingly sophisticated microfluidic diagnostic tools are appearing in all areas of medicine. Apart from medical diagnosis, microfluidics is used to design functionalised biochemical systems close to those of certain organs. This is referred to as organ-on-a-chip.
- ***Does this discipline make it possible to achieve economies of scale?***
Yes, on several levels. The reduction in size goes hand-in-hand with a reduction in time. Therefore it enables a larger number of operations to be performed in the shortest possible time and in a reduced space. The costs related to processes are thus also reduced, due to both the smaller quantities of samples or reagents needed, and the lower energy.
- ***Can you give us one word to define microfluidics for the future?***
One sentence rather: the possibilities of microfluidics will end at the point when human imagination runs dry, i.e. never!
- ***How can microfluidics change our lives?***
In point-of-care diagnostic devices for use in the home.
For production in small delocalised production units, in particular to provide cheap drugs adapted to patients in developing countries.
- ***Currently, what are the main applications of microfluidics, your technology and your chip?***
The main applications today are in diagnostics for biology and medicine. Centrifugal microfluidics in particular has an important role in this field.
However, the Secoya technologies target the production of molecules, particularly what are referred to as pharmaceutical active ingredients, both chemical and biological.
Secoya offers a range of technologies, i.e. crystallisation, liquid/liquid separation, reaction and micro-encapsulation. Its strength is precisely its ability to combine these technologies to integrate them into an industrial process which best satisfies customers’ needs in terms of quality and cost reduction.
## Products and collaboration
- ***What is your flagship product?***
The Raydrop. It is a universal emulsifier. Thanks to its geometry, it enables any phase to be emulsified in any other (water in oil or oil in water), even partially miscible fluids.
- ***What benefit can this product provide?***
Its axisymmetrical geometry means that it reduces the number of independent parameters, thus enabling comprehensive modelling of the system. This is a definite bonus in the context of microfluidic emulsification, considerably facilitating prediction and control. It is a robust system by design, suitable for large-scale commercialisation and, most importantly, versatile. Today, we no longer talk about “consumable microfluidic chips” but rather “hardware”, with interchangeable ends allowing double emulsion for example.
- ***Can you describe the current collaboration with Fluigent / Why did you choose to work with Fluigent?***
Fluigent is the exclusive distributor of the Raydrop. Fluigent has always positioned itself as a supplier of high-end products. For this reason we immediately thought that Fluigent would be the ideal distributor for the Raydrop.
- ***What does the future hold for Secoya?***
Currently, Secoya is a company which co-develops new processes with its customers based on microfluidics principles. However, our goal in the long term is to offer the market equipment based on these developments. The Raydrop is an example of this, but other equipment is already in the Secoya product pipeline, such as continuous flow and liquid/liquid separation modules.
**Catégories de ressource:** Interviews & Testimonials, Written interviews
---
### [Fluigent Anniversary, Replay of the lectures & Interviews](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-lectures-interviews/)
**Published:** January 31, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Replay of the lectures
- Event – DAY 1
- Event – DAY 2
**Severine Le Gac**
### Cartilage-on-chip platform – A physiologically inspired platform to reproduce articular joint compression and shear strain
Dr. Le Gac is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Twente (The Netherlands) and is leading a research group Applied Microfluidics for BioEngineering Research (AMBER). Her research interests focus on the use of microfluidic devices for biological and medical applications, including cancer research, assisted reproductive technologies.Prof. Le Gac is associate editor of the journals Lab on a Chip and Biomedical Microdevices. And co-editor-in-chief of the journal Organs-on-a-Chip. She is also member of the director board of the Chemical Biological Microsystem Society (CBMS).
****Charles Baroud****
### Droplet microfluidics driven by confinement gradients : from research to cancer in vitro diagnostics
Charles Baroud is the Co-founder and Advisor at Okomera. He is a professor at École Polytechnique, and a team leader at Institut Pasteur, with +60 peer-reviewed publications and several patents (including Okomera’s patents). He is the co-inventor of the technology. He is also one of the founders of Stilla Technologies.
******David A. Weitz******
### New probes of fluids at the microscale
David Weitz is a professor of Physics and Applied Physics at Harvard University. His research efforts include soft matter physics, biophysics and biotechnology. He is Director of Harvard’s Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, co-Director of the BASF Advanced Research Initiative and a member of the National Academies of Science and the American Academy of Arts and Science.
****Dimitrios Lamprou****
### Microfluidics in Nanomedicine
Dimitrios Lamprou (Ph.D. MBA) is Reader in Pharmaceutical Engineering and Programme Director at MSc Industrial Pharmaceutics at the School of Pharmacy in Queen’s University Belfast (UK). His research and academic leadership have been recognised in a range of awards, including the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Science Award and the Scottish Universities Life Sciences Alliance Leaders Scheme Award. Dimitrios research lab is applying Nano and Microfabrication Techniques (e.g., 3D Printing & Bioprinting, Electrospinning, Microfluidics & Lab-on-a-chip) in the Manufacturing of Drug Delivery Systems, Medical Devices & Implants.
******Jean Louis Viovy******
### Combining magnetic and hydrodynamic forces for sample prep and point-of-use microfluidics
Polymer physicist by initial training, Jean Louis Viovy is a microfluidics specialist, and currently Research Director Emeritus at CNRS and Curie Institute. He has cofounded Institute Pierre Gilles de Gennes for Microfluidics (IPGG) in 2011. His research interests focus on lab-on-chips, bioanalytical methods, translational medicine. e.g. through the study of DNA-protein transactions involved in cancer and diagnosis methods relevant to cancer or for other types of pathologies such as Alzheimer or infectious diseases.
********Andrew DeMello********
### Microfluidics for high-throughput chemistry and biology
Andrew deMello is a professor of Biochemical Engineering in the Department of Chemistry and Applied Biosciences at ETH Zurich and Head of the Institute for Chemical and Bioengineering. He is also co-founder of Molecular Vision Ltd, an Imperial College spin-out company developing low-cost diagnostic devices for use in doctor’s surgery and at home. His research interests cover a broad range of activities in the general area of microfluidics and nanoscale science.
---
## Interviews of the lectures
**********Fabrice Monti**********
### Biomimetic sweating process of the human skin
His research interests is to mimic of the sweating process of human skin to test cosmetic products.
He explains how Fluigent instruments permit to control the flow rate of this process with high stability and precision.
************Anthony Treizebre************
### Microfluidic for blood-vessel-on-chip applications
His research interests focus on the development of new microfluidic technologies for applications, mostly in life sciences.
He explains the advantages of Fluigent instruments in his research:
The high precision and the fast response time of pressure based controllers, the ease of use and the high modularity compared to other pressure-based systems.
**************Charles Baroud**************
### Interface between quantitative biology using physical methods
He talks to us about the interface between quantitative biology using physical methods to manipulate the cells and the droplets, and mathematical modeling to analyze the measurements.
For him, one of the challenges in therm of developing technologies is to integrate more and more complex biological protocols in easy-to-use devices.
****************Jean Louis VIOVY****************
### New microfluidic technologies development
His research interests focus on the development of new microfluidic technologies for applications, mostly in life sciences.
He explains the advantages of Fluigent instruments in his research:
the high precision and the fast response time of pressure based controllers, the ease of use and the high modularity compared to other pressure-based systems.
******************Séverine le Gac******************
### Microfluidics for cartillage on chip applications
Her research interests focus on the use of microfluidic devices for biological and medical applications, including cancer research, Cartilage On A Chip, and assisted reproductive technologies.
She explains how Fluigent instruments help in her research: to apply mechanical stimulation on cells for cartilage applications to establish communication between different Organ On Chip devices.
**Catégories de ressource:** Interviews & Testimonials, Lectures
---
### [Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Principle of “pressure driven flow”
In scientific research, the use of fluids still exists but the advent of [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/) at the end of the 20th century reintroduced notions of fluid flow. There are several flow control methods available, but pressure is highly regarded.
Pressure driven flow refers to fluid movement through a system driven by a difference in pressure between two points. This flow occurs as the fluid moves from regions of higher pressure to lower pressure, following the established pressure gradient.
**The pressure follows this equation:**
ΔP=RQ
Q *= flow rate* ; Δ*P = pressure difference;* R = hydrodynamic resistance
Flow is categorized into four types: laminar, turbulent, transitional, and sheared. When it is laminar and turbulence-free, flow follows the **Hagen-Poiseuille equation**, which considers other parameters. This law makes it possible to predict the behavior of fluids through a microfluidic chip.
Pressure is a solution to control the flow of fluids, but several other distinct methods can provide the same result.
**Hagen-Poiseuille equation**
Q *= flow rate*; Δ*P = pressure difference;* r = radius; L *= channel length;* *η = viscosity of the fluid*
## What other solutions provide precise flow control via pressure?
Selecting the appropriate pressure level is crucial for **regulating the flow rate.** Various methods can be employed to apply pressure, including syringe and peristaltic pumps, which rely on **mechanical force.** While these methods may produce pulsatile and erratic flows, pressure-driven pumps have demonstrated **superior performance**. **A recent study tested the [effectiveness of different pressure pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/ "effectiveness of different pressure pumps"), including: peristaltic pump, syringe pump and Fluigent pressure pump.** See following results.
Figure 1 Comparison of flow rate stability between Fluigent flow control and syringe pumps
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2021/12/save-experimental-time.png)Figure 2 Comparison of reaction time between Fluigent flow controller and a syringe pump
Peristaltic pump Syringe pump Pressure pump Flow stability Bad Excellent Excellent Response time Slow Fast Fast PrecisionLow High High Contamination Yes No No Compactness Yes No Yes PC control No Yes Yes Sample accessibility Yes No Yes Temperature control Yes No Yes Table 1: Parameters of different pressure pumps.
## Enhance your performance with Fluigent pressure controllers
### *Flow EZ*
The [LineUp Flow EZ™](https://store.fluigent.com/products/lineup-flow-ez/) is the pinnacle of pressure-based flow control systems. This compact device stands independently alongside the microfluidic setup, enabling users to conserve bench space without requiring a PC. With swift setup, the device quickly begins facilitating rapid data generation.
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
### *MFCS Series*
The [MFCS™ series](https://store.fluigent.com/products/mcfs-series/) comprises modular microfluidic flow controllers, available in 4 or 8 channel versions, and offers various pressure ranges tailored for precise operations in microfluidic experiments. The MFCS™ devices ensure a consistent pressure-driven flow rate, enabling dependable and reproducible experiments.
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
### *F-OEM: Integrated Flow Controller in your fluidic system*
This [OEM](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/) [flow control module](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/) based on pressure actuation offers the right liquid handling specifications required for your device. We offer the widest pressure and flow rate range to support the most demanding industrial applications, including microfluidic and nanofluidic applications (microchannels, nanochannels, capillaries, lab on a chip, etc.).
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
## What applications require pressure driven flow?
Precise flow control via pressure pumps has opened the door to a whole [range of applications in several fields](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/): microfluidics for cell analysis, Organ-on-a-Chip studies (OOC), droplet and particle generation, and automated cell and tissue imaging. These new applications contribute to the research and development of new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies by reducing reaction times, volumes, and costs.
### Microfluidics for cell analysis
Microfluidics has modernized classical scientific research by replacing traditional methods with the study of liquids at the micrometric scale. The method has made it possible to reinvent techniques of cell analysis for understanding cellular interactions/behaviors. The techniques include:
- [Micropipette aspiration,](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration/) which requires precise flow control, making it possible to study the cellular response following a mechanical stimulus.
- [Cell sorting](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-platform-for-cell-and-particle-sorting-application/) within a microfluidic chip that receives fluids at different, well-controlled flow rates, allowing for easier and more affordable applications.
- [Single cell analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/) that offers high resolution and versatile, automated analysis to understand complex biological processes to develop new diagnostic and therapeutic applications.
### Organ-on-a-Chip Studies
At a time when animal testing is on its way out, organ-on-a-chip studies is emerging as a revolution. They are defined as mimicking the functions of an entire organ or disease on a chip, thus reducing time and cost. They enable us to study [drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and various types of therapy](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/). However, this technology requires a [special setup, especially for flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/). While peristaltic pumps cannot guarantee perfect flow due to back pressure, [pressure controllers are essential tools for OOC applications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/). Controlling the entire process with software such as [Oxygen](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) provides high reactivity, stability, and flow precision within the organ-on-a-chip.
### Droplet and particle generation
Droplets are playing an increasingly important role in the life science industry (think food, cosmetics, and particle synthesis) thanks to precise flow control that enables the generation of monodisperse droplets, which opens new applications such as [digital PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/digital-pcr/) and [single-cell encapsulation](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/). These droplets are the result of mixing a continuous phase and a dispersed phase, each injected at a precise flow rate.
[Pressure controllers have replaced syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/) which do not provide a stable flow rate and uniform droplet formation. The latter allows precise flow control, increasing reproducibility, droplet production frequency, and droplet size according to user requirements. With this approach, it is possible to create **liposomes**, **Polymer Microparticles**, and **Microcapsules** with high control of the size repeatability.
**Alginate microbeads**
**Chitosan microcapsules**
**Agarose microcapsules**
### Automated cell and tissue imaging
Again, precise [flow control by pressure has proven to be a superior method](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/) to the traditional syringe pump and has enabled the development of new automated imaging techniques for the study of cells and tissues. More reliable results open the door to the use of new, more realistic imaging methods. This is particularly the case with [immunolabeling experiments](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/), where microfluidics appears to be a much faster technique thanks to the addition of solutions that can now be automatically delivered homogeneously to optimize results, simplify execution, and save time.
## Conclusion
Pressure driven flow is a crucial component of modern microfluidics, which allows for precise and efficient control of fluid movement at the microscopic scale. This approach offers significant advantages in terms of stability, responsiveness, and precision, paving the way for major advances in new areas.
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Modular OEM Microfluidic Flow Controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/)
[
### OEM Microfluidic Pressure Source
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/fluigent-rx/)
[
### Fully Custom Microfluidic Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/full-customization/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microcapsule Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Agarose Microcapsules Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/agarose-microcapsules-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Micropipette aspiration of cells and tissues Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics High Throughput Single Cell Analysis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics overview: History and Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Advantages of Pressure-Based Microfluidics
---
### [Microfluidics Video Interviews](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-interviews-video/)
**Published:** January 11, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
- Research on Honey by Daniel Kraus (Germany)
- Hans-Knöll-Institut, New Antibiotics, Cultivation in Droplets (Germany)
- Maxime Poinsot, institute of Neurosciences of la Timone (France)
- Gaspard Pardon, Bionengineering and Organoids Platform (Lausanne)
- Elise Delannoy, Institut Pasteur (France)
## Doing PhD with Fluigent 2021: Research on Honey by Daniel Kraus (Jena, Germany)
One of our PhD students Daniel is doing his postgraduate research on honey at the Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology. Using the microfluidic set-up, including microfluidic chip and Fluigent pressure pumps, Daniel can examine the pollens to find out whether the origin of honey is natural or faked. The high-throughput microfluidic technique enables honey particles to pass with the same velocity through the microfluidic channel, which makes for a better more efficient analysis that goes beyond the state of the art.
## Hans-Knöll-Institut, New Antibiotics, Cultivation in Droplets
Today we are visiting Leibniz Institut for Natural Products Research and Infection Biology (Hans Knöll Institute), to be precise – Bio Pilot Plant Department. Our speakers are Prof. Dr. Miriam Agler-Rosenbaum (Head of Bio Pilot Plant Department), Dr. Sundar Hengoju, Dr. Dede Man. How are they trying to find new antibiotics? Why is this important for infection biology? How do they research natural products? What are these exactly? How does microfluidics allow them to cultivate microbes in droplets? How does the technology increase their efficiency millions of times over? In which cases pressure pumps are better than syringe pumps? How to stabilize microfluidic droplets? Watch this episode to find out. And that’s just one story told. There are many possible applications for microfluidics. Stay tuned!
## Creating an in-vitro approach to study neuronal cells
Meet Maxime Poinsot and explore his research story, where he creates an in-vitro approach to study neuronal cells and their architectures, along with the expertise of Fluigent.
Maxime has been working at Fluigent on an in-vitro “brain-on-chip” platform as a PhD student at the institute of Neurosciences of la Timone, Marseille, France.
## Exciting Insights into Bionengineering and Organoids Platform!
Meet Gaspard Pardon and his team. At the forefront of innovation, the Bionengineering and Organoids Platform, led by Gaspard Pardon, is making remarkable strides in the field. They collaborate with esteemed institutions like EPFL and the University Hospital of Lausanne, with their hub at the AGORA Cancer Research Center in Lausanne.
Together with his dynamic team – Marzena Walaszczyk and Aidan Bedford, they explore a wide spectrum of areas:
✅Microfluidics
✅Microfabrication
✅Organoids
✅Advanced 3D cellular models
Their passion revolves around understanding cells in-depth, and they’ve recently switched to FLUIGENT Pressure Pumps to gain precise control over flow and pressure, a game-changer in their research. We had the pleasure of diving into their world, from cancer cells to the latest microfluidics trends.
## A Gut-on-chip Model to study Shigella Propagation Mechanisms
Creating an organ-on-chip model to replicate the human colon mucosal barrier interface in vitro and to study propagation mechanisms of Shigella, a pathogenic bacteria.
Meet Elise Delannoy, a postdoctoral researcher at Institut Pasteur (France, Lille), and explore her fascinating research story!
She designed a **gut-on-chip model** to replicate the human colon mucosal barrier interface in vitro, along with the expertise of Fluigent.
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Development of a human gut-on-chip to assess the effect of shear stress on intestinal functions
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/)
---
**Catégories de ressource:** Interviews & Testimonials, Interview Videos
---
### [A microfluidic Artery-on-a-Chip using Fluigent’s Microfluidic Flow Control System, the MFCS](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/artery-on-a-chip-model/)
**Published:** February 20, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
Find more about [German Center](https://dzhk.de/en/ "German Center") for Cardiovascular Research DZHK
Find more about [the Technical University of Munich](https://www.tum.de/en/)
## Artery-on-a-chip to investigate cardiovascular diseases and therapeutic targets
Investigating etiopathogenetic mechanisms underlying cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and the study of disease progression and novel therapies have been made possible through *in-vivo* animal models. However, translating these findings across species can be challenging due to the unique nature of the human circulatory system.
In response, the development of **[organ-on-a-chip (OOC)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/ "organ-on-a-chip (OOC)")** **models** has emerged to bridge the gap between animal and human models by **mimicking key aspects of human physiology**.
OOC models are micro-engineered in vitro replicas of human organs, allowing for pathophysiological studies. These models consist of [microfluidic cell culture devices](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/) with continuously perfused chambers, housing living cells arranged to mimic tissue geometry. The integration of patient-derived cells and precise environmental control enhances our ability to discover novel targets and conduct drug testing.
In a recent study, **artery-on-a-chip technology** was applied to investigate two types of cardiovascular diseases: **carotid artery disease (CAD)** and **abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA)**.
CAD involves atherosclerosis, which narrows arterial lumens and reduces blood flow to the brain, potentially causing transient ischemic attacks or strokes. Most CAD lesions occur at the carotid bifurcation, where complex wall shear stress distributions are present. AAA, on the other hand, results from the pathological widening of the aortic lumen and can lead to rupture with high mortality rates. Most AAA cases develop in the infrarenal segment of the aorta.
Despite their differences, **carotid artery disease** and **abdominal aortic aneurysms** share common characteristics, including pathological remodeling of the vessel wall and alterations in hemodynamic [shear stresses](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/). The endothelial layer, at the interface with blood flow, plays a critical role in both diseases. Subsequent remodeling of the medial layer, populated by smooth muscle cells (SMC), leads to disease progression. CAD is marked by plaque buildup, intima layer disappearance, and increased inflammation. In aneurysms, the vessel wall becomes dysfunctional due to the loss of vascular SMC and the destruction of elastic matrix fibers.
Figure 1. Summary of the study. AoC: Artery-on-a-chip. CAD: carotid artery disease, AAA: abdominal aortic aneurysm, scRNA-seq: single cell RNA sequencing.
The study introduces the **artery-on-a-chip** (AoC) model, which mimics the arterial wall structure and explores interactions between vascular endothelial cells (EC) subjected to shear stress and underlying SMC cultured on a layer of extracellular matrix. The AoC serves as a valuable tool for **molecular target discovery in cardiovascular disease research**, and the findings have the potential to translate into the context of human diseases. Additionally, the artery-on-a-chip can be used for drug testing, allowing researchers to evaluate the effects of therapeutic agents on cellular and molecular pathophysiology, potentially advancing the development of treatments for CAD and AAA.
This table of content summarizes the entire study and its major findings.
The **artery-on-a-chip** in vitro model is capable of mimicking important physiological aspects of human arteries, such as the response to shear stress, and can further shed light on the mechanism of action of potential therapeutics before they enter the clinical stage.
## Use of the MFCS-EZ in the Artery-on-a-chip model
### Experimental Design: Artery-on-a-Chip
The device employed in this study was collaboratively designed with Micronit Technologies (Enschede, The Netherlands). It comprised a membrane layer and two resealable glass slides, constituting the upper and lower chambers of the **Artery-on-a-chip** device. Cells utilized on the AoC were primary human aortic endothelial cells (EC) and human aortic smooth muscle (SMC), both derived from healthy donors (Cell Application, CA, USA). The assembled AoC was firmly affixed within the chip holder, a cell culture platform, with distinct control over fluid flows both above and below. Fluid regulation was managed through the connection, facilitated by a perfusion set linked to Fluigent’s [microfluidic pressure-based pump (MFCS-EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)). To ensure a consistent flow rate throughout the experiment, [flow sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) were strategically placed between the reservoirs and the AoC. A continuous regulation algorithm monitored the ongoing flow rates, dynamically adjusting the pressure in response to fluctuations. Installation of flow sensors between the reservoirs and the **artery-on-chip** facilitated precise monitoring of the flow rate. At the end of the flow experiment, (24 hours after flow exposure) the AoC was disassembled, the membrane was rinsed and processed for subsequent testing protocols.
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Partial results
The robustness of this study relies on their human vascular biobank. The outcomes derived from the **Artery-on-a-Chip** (AoC) system were further authenticated through validation in samples obtained from vascular tissues of individuals afflicted by carotid atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).
### The AoC: An In Vitro Model of the Arterial Wall
The **artery-on-a-chip** model comprises a resealable glass chip with two flow channels separated by an intermediate layer that contains a porous culture membrane. This membrane facilitates the circulation of different fluids on either side, allowing for co-culture at an interface (Figure 1.A). Primary aortic endothelial cells (EC) are grown on one side of the membrane on a collagen layer, while primary aortic smooth muscle cells (SMC) are cultured on the other side on a fibronectin layer (Figure 1.B). Immunofluorescence staining using specific antibodies validated the quality of the co-culture, confirming the attachment of EC and SMC at opposing sides of the membrane (Figure 1.C).
Once cells reach confluence, the glass chip is assembled, sealed, and connected to Fluigent’s [MFCS, microfluidic pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/), enabling perfusion with cell-specific culture medium. The AoC is integrated into an incubator and perfused for 24 hours at a steady flow rate, maintaining a constant wall shear stress (WSS) of 10 dyne/cm² on the EC channel. The flow rate in the SMC channel, designed to [mimic physiological conditions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/), remains minimal (10 μL/min), generating a negligible shear stress (0.0021 dyne/cm²) necessary for nutrient turnover and waste removal. [Flow sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/) and [specific valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/) ensure a constant flow rate and unidirectional recirculation of EC medium between reservoirs connected to the EC channel, establishing a controlled and stable microenvironment within the AoC model (Figure 1.D).
Figure 2. The Artery-on-Chip model. A) Cross-sectional design showing the layers of the AoC. B) The membrane for co-culturing endothelial cells EC and smooth muscle cells SMC at opposite sides is inserted between the top and bottom layer. C) Immunofluorescence membrane staining showing EC and SMC, labeled by the respective cell markers (PECAM for EC and SM22 for SMC). D) Connection of the AoC to the Fluigent microfluidic pressure controller (MFSC-EZ).
### AoC relevance to in-vivo: change in gene expression levels
In this study, the assembled **Artery-on-a-Chip** (AoC) model was evaluated under shear stress conditions, maintaining a constant wall shear stress (WSS) of 10 dynes/cm², as opposed to static conditions. The findings revealed its capability to **identify biologically relevant flow-inducible genes.** This study verified in vitro flow-induced expression of CRYAB and INHBA in non-diseased vessels obtained from patients, confirmed at both the RNA and protein levels. INHBA, encoding the inhibin𝛽A subunit of Activin A, a multifunctional cytokine inhibiting vascular endothelial cell growth, aligned with a quiescent endothelial cell (EC) monolayer exposed to physiologically relevant shear stress.
Similarly, INHBA was among the genes expressed by endothelial cells under prolonged unidirectional pulsatile flow. The increased expression of CRYAB, observed both in the in vitro model and non-diseased human vessels, may indicate a protective role, given its function in stabilizing the cytoskeleton in response to mechanical stress. These findings support the hypothesis that a selected wall shear stress (WSS) of 10 dyne/cm² exhibits a vasoprotective effect on EC in vitro, suggesting translatability to human specimens. Immunofluorescence confirmed the presence of CRYAB and INHBA in the healthy segments of carotid arteries and aortas, co-localizing with both EC and smooth muscle cell markers.
Overall, the loss of CRYAB and INHBA expression seems to have detrimental effects on the homeostasis of SMC in the arterial wall in human disease and experimental models, while being associated with vascular and immune system dysfunction.
### AoC Serves as a Drug Testing Device for Novel Therapies in Vascular Diseases
To explore the potential of the Artery-on-a-Chip model as a **drug-testing device for vascular diseases**, they investigated its **ability to mimic in vivo conditions**, particularly the intima-blood flow interface (Figure 2).
Employing the AoC, they tested the **impact of Lenvatinib**, a tyrosine kinase inhibitor known for limiting aortic aneurysm expansion in preclinical murine and porcine models. In their experiments, the endothelial cell (EC) layer of the AoC was exposed to circulating medium containing Lenvatinib or a control (DMSO), while smooth muscle cells (SMC) were exposed to SMC medium.
SMC, isolated from patients with aortic aneurysms, exhibited an upregulation of genes associated with a contractile phenotype when co-cultured with EC exposed to Lenvatinib. Notably, Lenvatinib treatment induced downregulation of VEGFR2, PECAM, and VCAM1 in EC, aligning with its inhibitory role in angiogenesis and anti-inflammatory effects.
These results mirror in vivo observations, emphasizing the potential of the AoC model for future clinical studies in aortic aneurysm patients.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2024/02/artery-on-chip-model-lenvatinib.png)Figure 3. AoC as a testing model for therapeutical agent Lenvatinib. D) Scheme representing the utilization of the AoC as translational tool. E,F) AoCs exposed to lenvatinib or DMSO (ctrl) were submitted to qRT-PCR to monitor gene expression in EC and AAA-derived SMC separately.
## Testimonial
“The setup of our working model hasn’t been trivial, and we certainly wouldn’t have succeeded without the support of Fluigent. Together with the R&D engineer, Felix Rogowitz, we made specific adjustments to our flow setup which improved stability and reproducibility of our experiments. It has been a hands-on journey with the Fluigent team, and we are very thankful for the fruitful collaboration.”
**Dr. Valentina Paloschi**
## Conclusion
The Artery-on-a-Chip model, designed to **replicate the arterial vessel wall’s** structural and hemodynamic aspects, serves as an innovative tool in cardiovascular research. Bridging the gap between cell culture and animal models, the AoC enhances the ability to emulate complex human vascular biology, providing insights into novel targets and validating known flow-responsive genes.
The system demonstrates translational potential by serving as a platform for testing therapeutic agents in patient-derived cell subtypes. This is particularly significant in adhering to the 3R criteria in animal research and contributes to drug target discovery and testing in cardiovascular disease research.
The AoC’s utilization of primary patient-derived cells and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) holds promise for investigating syndromic forms of cardiovascular diseases in the future, such as Marfan Syndrome or Vascular Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.
## Full article
Paloschi V, Pauli J, Winski G, Wu Z, Li Z, Botti L, Meucci S, Conti P, Rogowitz F, Glukha N, Hummel N, Busch A, Chernogubova E, Jin H, Sachs N, Eckstein HH, Dueck A, Boon RA, Bausch AR, Maegdefessel L. ***Utilization of an Artery-on-a-Chip to Unravel Novel Regulators and Therapeutic Targets in Vascular Diseases.*** Adv Healthc Mater. 2023 Oct 5:e2302907.
[doi: 10.1002/adhm.202302907](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37797407/#:~:text=In%20this%20study%2C%20organ%2Don,hemodynamic%20forces%20affecting%20luminal%20cells "doi: 10.1002/adhm.202302907").
## Related products
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies Creating a Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform using Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Pressure predictions for lab-on-chip operations using a microfluidic network solver and Fluigent PX Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-network-solver/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mimicking in-vivo environments: biochemical and biomechanical stimulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/biochemical-environment/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## The importance of flow control for droplet production
[**Syringe pumps**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications/) are commonly used for generating droplets in microfluidic experiments, but can **show limited flow control**. As a result, the droplet size, which is proportional to the flow rate, is affected. Therefore, flow control for droplet generation is critical for having repeatable reactor volume and reproducible results. An [alternative to syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/microfluidic-droplet-generation-using-different-flow-controllers.pdf) is [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). These show that high-precision flow control, high reaction time, and flow monitoring is possible.
Figure 1 Generation of droplets using a batch method and b microfluidic method [Complete analysis comparing syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/microfluidic-droplet-generation-using-different-flow-controllers.pdf)
We compare the production of water in oil emulsions using microfluidic syringe pumps and Fluigent pressure based flow controllers Droplet size stability and the time required to reach several droplet diameters are determined for the two instruments
## Droplet production under identical experimental conditions
Figure 2 Scheme of droplet generation using the Flow EZ and syringe pumps
## Flow rate stability over time when generating droplets
To determine the droplet stability over time achieved with the different[ instruments](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/), droplets are generated within a [microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/), working with constant water and oil flow rates of 2.0 µL/min and 1.5 µL/min, respectively.
Figure 3 shows the flow rate of water and oil as a function of time for standard[ syringe pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/comparison-between-peristaltic-syringe-and-pressure-pumps-for-microfluidic-applications) and for the [Flow-EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/), the pressure-based flow controller. The average flow rates, standard deviations, and coefficients of variation were also calculated. The water and [HFE](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) flow rate variations using the Flow EZ are lower than when using standard syringe, confirming the **enhanced flow stability over time of pressure-based flow controllers**.
Figure 3: Flow rate stability of water and HFE over time with the Flow EZ and syringe pump
*Table 1: Water and HFE average flow rate, STD and CV with the Flow EZ and syringe pump*
Figure 4 Droplet generation in the microfluidic chip channels
To determine the effect of flow control for droplet generation, and thus the effect of flow rate on droplet stability, a picture of the channels was taken every 10 seconds, and the average diameter over 5 minutes was calculated for each device. To better compare between the different instruments, we use normalized values.
The figure at left shows the normalized diameter variation over time. We can observe that droplets are more stable over time using the [Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) compared to the standard syringe pump. This aligns with the results obtained for [flow rate stability](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) and confirms that **the more precise the flow rate, the more monodisperse the droplets will be.**
Figure 5 Normalized droplet diameter as a function of time using the Flow EZ and syringe pump
## Impact of precise flow control on droplet diameter over time
It can also be of interest to be able to quickly move from one [droplet size](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/) to another. We can **determine the response time for reaching a specific droplet diameter.** The water flow rate is varied, while the oil flow rate is kept constant at 1.5 µL/min. The set flow rates were the following: 1 µL/min – 4 µL/min – 1 µL/min – 2 µL/min.
Figure 6 shows the results obtained using the Flow EZ. We observe that the set flow rates are reached in a few seconds. After reaching a set flow rate, we can observe the droplet size that results.
In the analysis of the effect of flow control on droplet generation, droplets of 89 µm, 101 µm and approximately 110 µm in diameter were obtained via flow rates of 1 µL/min, 2 µL/min and 4 µL/min, respectively, when using the Flow EZ.
Figure 6 Droplet diameter change as a function of time using the Flow EZ The water flow rates are varied over time while the HFE flow rate was kept constant
Figure 7: Time required to change from one water flow rate to another using the Flow EZ and syringe pumps.
Figure 7 shows the water flow rate as a function of time for the syringe pump and the Flow EZ, and the table below shows the time required to move from one flow rate to the other after starting the system. We observe that **the maximum time** required to **switch to another flow rate** using the **Flow EZ** and the **syringe pump** are **6 s and 93 s**, respectively.
We can therefore see that the Flow EZ is the instrument with the shortest response time. This allows users to **rapidly change from one droplet size to another**.
## Conclusion
In analyzing the effect of flow control on droplet generation, more stable flow rates were observed when generating droplets with the Flow EZ, resulting in more monodisperse droplets compared to syringe pumps. These results confirm the relationship between flow rate and droplet size.
The difference in response time between the different devices was also determined. Better response times were observed when using the [Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/), allowing for responsive control over droplet size during an experiment.
Micrometer-size droplets and particles are widely used in a broad range of industries. Fluigent provides complete, cost-effective solutions for the production of monodisperse droplets., allowing users to control droplet size and frequency by adjusting flow parameters.
## Related content
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of multiple emulsions in a single droplet
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/multiple-emulsion-droplet-generation/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Advantages of Pressure-Based Microfluidics
---
### [The Raydrop | A new droplet generation device based on non-embedded co-flow-focusing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/the-raydrop-a-new-droplet-generation-device-based-on-non-embedded-co-flow-focusing/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
[](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[Read the complete article](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-020-77836-y)
[Visit our product page](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
## A new configuration to fill the gap in the design of microfluidic droplet generators
In recent years, [droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) has become an important tool for many different applications, including fundamental studies on emulsification, crystallization, chemical reaction, molecular encapsulation, particle synthesis, [digital PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/high-throughput-cell-dna-screening-using-digital-pcr/), and single-cell analysis.
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
### Design of the droplet generation chip
Most commercial microfluidic droplet generators rely on the planar flow‑focusing configuration implemented in [polymer or glass chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/)s. This geometry has many limitations, such as the need for specific coatings, or the use of dedicated surfactants. In contrast, **glass capillary‑based droplet production devices are a great improvement, as the dispersed phase is never in contact with the walls of the outer capillary (Figure 1a,b).
They have been difficult to implement (centering of the capillary), and commercially available designs have shown poor flexibility for droplet production (> 100 µm diameter, < 1 kHz generation rate). Centering can be simplified by inserting two circular capillaries into a square outer flow capillary (Figure 1c,d), but the related manufacturing methods limit large-scale production, and [high-throughput capillary-based droplet production](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) has still not been achieved. A new configuration offers a promising alternative by placing the extraction tube in front of the injection tube without any surrounding confinement (see Fig. 1e). However, this system works only in the jetting regime, which does not guarantee the **droplet monodispersity** associated with the dripping regime.
### Raydrop: A Non-Embedded Co-Flow-Focusing Microfluidic Droplet Generator
The authors present the [Raydrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/): a new system based on the latter configuration, but in which the dripping regime is enforced by using an injection capillary of smaller diameter than the extraction capillary (Figure 1f). This is achieved with an improved combination of cutting-edge machining and 3D printing techniques. This **non-embedded design** presents the characteristics of both a co-flow and a flow-focusing configuration, and is described as a “non-embedded co-flow-focusing” design. This configuration fills the gap in the design array of [microfluidic droplet generators](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/).
**The Raydrop is an easy-to-use, commercially available microfluidic chip which makes it possible to generate droplets with outstanding monodispersity.**
Figure 1 Available capillary based axisymmetric designs of droplet generators
## The Raydrop: a device based on the alignment of two capillaries immersed in a pressurized chamber
The [Raydrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) consists of a metallic pressurized chamber filled with a continuous phase. Two inserts supporting the glass capillaries (injection and extraction capillaries) are introduced on the lateral sides so that the capillaries are perfectly aligned and almost in contact at the center of the chamber (see Figure 2a). The dispersed phase flows from the injection capillary and meets the continuous phase at the intersection to the extraction capillary (see Figure 2), which results in the **capillary-based technique for droplet production**. Droplets are generated and flow through the extraction capillary. The 3D-printed micro-nozzle connected at the tip of the injection capillary (see figure 2 d) enforces the dripping regime of droplet formation.
The capillaries are held in the inserts so that alignment is guaranteed for all combinations, and a fixed gap between the nozzle and the extraction capillary is maintained, ensuring the proper production of droplets in the dripping regime. Two glass windows on the top and bottom faces of the device seal the chamber and allow for observation of the droplets.
The technological breakthrough of this design is two-fold:
- It enables **high-throughput generation of monodisperse droplets**, intrinsic to the dripping regime, for a wide variety of fluids.
- It benefits from specific fabrication techniques and materials compatible with **large-scale production** of the device.
Additionally, the device is **plug-and-play** thanks to the standard connections and the ability to easily assemble and disassemble all parts for cleaning.
Figure 2: (a) Exploded view and (b) assembled view of the Raydrop. (c) The Raydrop with the injection and extraction glass capillaries. (d) Zoom through the top window of the two capillaries aligned in the chamber filled with the continuous phase. (e) Zoom on the capillary-based droplet generation area.
## Generating droplets inside a microfluidic capillary using the Raydrop
Figure 3: Setup used for droplet production using the Raydrop. The flows are controlled using a pressure flow controller. The flow rates are measured using flow-meters.
### Setup description for capillary-based droplet generation
Using the Fluigent [Flow-EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) pressure pumps, fluids are injected into the inner capillary (dispersed phase) and the chamber (continuous phase). Flow rates are measured using [Flow Units](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/). Different glass capillary geometries can be used and interchanged depending on the required droplet size and frequency. These geometries are referred to as “couples”. Here, two couples were used. Couple 1 consists of a nozzle of 30 µm diameter and a 150 µm diameter extraction capillary, while couple 2 uses a nozzle of 60 µm diameter and a 300 µm diameter extraction capillary. Qc and Qd are respectively defined as the flow rate of the continuous and dispersed phase.
Figure 4 shows [water in mineral oil emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/) with droplet diameter and frequencies reached when using two different couples. The jetting-dripping regimes are also displayed. Using couple 1 (figure 4a), droplets with radius R ranging from 50 to 120 µm are produced, with frequencies ranging from 500 to 5000 Hz, at high monodispersity: the coefficient of variation (CV) is lower than 1%. Also, the dripping-jetting transition reaches a plateau for Qc = 200 μL/min (figure 4a), indicating that the dripping-jetting transition is only determined by the geometry in this region.
Figure 4: Size and production frequency of water droplets in mineral oil as a function of the continuous and dispersed flow rates Qc and Qd, respectively, with (a) couple 1 and (b) couple 2 geometries.
Figure 5: Water droplets in mineral oil using couple 2. Qd is fixed at 50 μL/min while the values of Qc are reported below each image (μL/min). The scale bar is 450 μm.
Using couple 2, capillary-based droplet production is possible with droplets having a radius R ranging from 60 to 300 µm are generated, with frequencies ranging from 500 to 5 000 Hz. Two dripping-jetting transitions can be observed, as this couple allows us to reach higher flow rate values. A transition is observed when increasing Qd (black dashed line in Fig. 4b), and another transition when Qc is increased above a threshold value (red dashed line in Fig. 4b).
Interestingly, this second transition at high Qc separates a monodisperse regime with CV < 1% from a polydisperse regime with CV > 4% (a value still much smaller than typical CV values observed in the jetting regime, usually larger than 10%). This transition is illustrated in Figure 5, where Qd is kept constant while Qc is increased. Note that no polydisperse regime seems to be reached whatever the value of Qc.
## A theoretical model to predict droplet size and generation regime
Figure 6: Comparison between transient simulations (green lines) and experimental pictures for the formation of water drops in mineral oil.
The authors make use of continuum and fluid mechanics to develop a highly sophisticated model of capillary-based droplet production. The details can be found in the paper. This system of equations is solved using the finite element method (FEM). This model is first validated by comparing with experimental data, as shown in figure 6 (where Cac is the capillary number of the continuous phase). It is then used to study the effect of several parameters such as fluid viscosity, inertia, and geometrical parameters (nozzle inclination angle, nozzle-capillary distance …) on droplet formation.
Using this model and quasi-static simulations (Qd << Qc) it is possible to [**predict droplet size**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/) as a function of several geometrical parameters. Figure 7 shows the effect of (a) the extraction capillary radius, (b) the nozzle-capillary distance and (c) the nozzle inclination on droplet size. This model is thus a great tool for end users, as it allows them to find an appropriate set of parameters for a targeted droplet size and generation regime.
To make it easier for end-users to determine the set of parameters needed to **achieve the desired droplet size** with the Raydrop, we [developed a calculator.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
## Raydrop versatility in generating capillary-based droplets
Using the Raydrop, it is also possible to [generate bubbles](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/) and droplets involving a wide variety of fluid pairs. This universality is demonstrated in Figure 8, where the Raydrop was used to generate air-in-oil, ethanol-in-oil, [water-in-oil](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/), allnex© polymer-in-water, and [oil-in-water](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/) emulsions, among others, while **keeping its versatility in droplet size and frequency**.
Figure 8: Experimental images of droplet generation in the dripping regime using the Raydrop with different couples and various pairs of fluids in a wide range of viscosity ratios. The scale bar is 100 μm. λ is the viscosity ratio.
## Conclusion
The authors demonstrated several advantages of the Raydrop for capillary-based droplet production, including:
- **high monodispersity** ensured by the dripping regime,
- **robustness** of the fabrication technique,
- **optimization capabilities** based on numerical modeling,
- and the **universality** of the configuration.
To learn more about Secoya and the Raydrop, read our [interview ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/interview-with-benoit-scheidfrom-secoya/ "interview ")with Benoît Scheid, co-author of the aforementioned article.
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes 1-10 microns PLGA microsphere production using the RayDrop Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microsphere-production/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews Solid lipid nanoparticles for biologics and drug encapsulation Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes Alginate Microbeads Production Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes PLGA Microparticles Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-microparticle-synthesis/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic chips
---
### [CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
**Published:** May 12, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
Founded in 1972, the Compiègne University of Technology (UTC) is a research and educational institute with the aim of positioning technology at the center of interdisciplinary research projects. Among the 3 main research axes, the “technologies for healthcare” field is of particular importance as bringing technologies to biomedical research allows for a better understanding of the ways to treat pathologies, improved diagnostic methods,developnew in-vitro models for drug testing, and more..
UTC, in partnership with various academic and industrial partners, relies on 8 research units. Among them is the Biomechanics and Bioengineering CNRS research center, where the interactions between fluids and biological structures are heavily studied. In this field of research, microfluidic systems are continuously developed, as they are perfectly suited to make miniaturized, robust, and controllable systems involving fluid handling and biological functions, such as human liver-on-a-chip models. Learn more about UTC.
[Find more about UTC](https://www.utc.fr/)
## Testimonial
“FLUIGENT pressure controllers were used before my arrival at BMBI laboratories to control the fluid circulation when studying fluid structure interactions. The goal of these experiments was to measure the deformation of soft flowing object in order to evaluate their mechanical properties. An accurate knowledge of the flow strength is key to the success of this approach.
I was the first in the team to use pressure control for cell culture experiments. I compared the behavior of cells in dynamic culture in biochips combined with pressure controllers and peristaltic pumps. Thanks to FLUIGENT MFCS systems, I could monitor the pressure applied at the inlet reservoir and demonstrate that it is correlated with the number of cells inside the biochip. This kind of information cannot be obtained when a peristaltic pump is used. Cell growth inside the chip may eventually lead to the clogging of the flow circulation.
This clogging can be anticipated when pressure-controlling the fluid circulation in the system, while when using a peristaltic pump, it might remain undetected until the detachment of the chip. In addition, the use of pressure-controlled flow is crucial when working with pressure sensitive cells such as endothelial cells which require a precise monitoring of the pressure variations. During my work at BMBI laboratory, I saw an expansion of the use of FLUIGENT pressure controllers. Thanks to their simplicity, user friendly interface and their accuracy, different applications are being explored.
New research projects are continuously being launched and the use of FLUIGENT pressure controllers to induce the flow is strongly proposed thank to the non-invasive feedback that such technology confer.”
**Taha Messelmani, PHD student at Université de Technologie de Compiègne | UTC · BioMécanique et BioIngénierie (BMBI)**
## Why develop a microfluidic model for liver tissue culture?
### **Limitation of animal models for drug discovery**
Drug development is a long process that can take up to 15 years \[1\] and include several requirements. Some drug development processes such as animal testing, are subject to strong debates like the ethical relevance of involving animals in the process. In addition, the final product can fail to receive authorization for commercialization due to toxicity or insufficient efficacy \[2\]. Animal models not only are being strongly discussed due to ethical questions, but they also show limitations for drug development as there are many differences between animal and human biology \[3\].
### **Advantages of microfluidic organ on–a-chip models**
To overcome these limitations, in-vitro models are being developed to better mimic the human environment and hence accurately determine the human response to drugs. In particular, [organ-on-a-chip models](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) are of special interest, as they allow the culture tissue to be studied under dynamic and regulated conditions, reproducing physiological [shear-stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) with controlled molecule concentrations and3D structures like the in-vivo.
UTC developed an in-vitro liver-on-a-chip model, one of the most promising organ-on-a-chip technologies for drug screening and biological assays, in which they investigate the growth of hepatic cells under dynamic conditions in a microfluidic chip (the biochip) composed of a chamber filled with a 3D hydroscaffold structure. In these conditions, the cells grow and gather to form spheroids, which are not observed in conventional 2D static cultures. Figure 1 summarizes the experiment and illustrates its main results: the self-organization of cells into spheroids and the functionality of liver cells are assessed by their level of secretion of urea and albumin. The organ functions of this human liver-on-a-chip model were found to be improved as compared to traditional culture methods, indicating the viability of the in-vitro model.
*Figure 1: Graphical abstract of the liver-on-a-chip model*
## Use of Fluigent products for characterizing the microfluidic culture of liver tissue
In this study, a 3D hydroscaffold composed of hyaluronic acid was built to embed the cells and provide them with a suitable growth environment. Then, the cells are grown in this hydroscaffold, and due to medium providing shear-stress conditions and a 3D structure, they tend to form spheroids that increase in size over time (fig 2).
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/05/spheroids-growth-in-the-chip-at-several-timepoints.png)*Figure 2: Spheroids growth in the chip at several timepoints*
For the cells to grow efficiently and form a viable liver-on-a-chip model, the chip is constantly perfused with a culture medium. However, the 3D hydroscaffold and cell proliferation can have an impact on the ability of liquid to flow through the system due to potential clogging.
To monitor this clogging effect, a microfluidic setup consisting of Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers, MCFS-Ex and Flow units M, was created to not only impose the desired flow rate but also measure the pressure level in the chip at several timepoints (fig 3). The flow controller was connected to both the inlet and the outlet of the microfluidic chip, allowing the measurement of the pressure at each side of the liver-on-a-chip model. The flow unit was placed on the fluidic path to ensure a constant flowrate of 10µL/min, and the pressure difference was determined. An increase of pressure difference would mean clogging appeared in the system.
*Figure 3: Fluigent setup used for pressure measurement*
## Partial results
The first step was to investigate the clogging effect with hydroscaffold in the chip. To do this, the pressure level was measured on the chip with and without the integrated hydroscaffold and compared between the 2 conditions. In Figure 4, we see that the pressure values are similar between the 2 conditions for various tested flowrates, demonstrating no clogging due to the presence of the hydroscaffold in the human liver-on-a-chip model.
*Figure 4: Pressure comparison between the empty biochip and the biochip filled with 3D hydroscaffold for various flow-rates*
After cells were seeded in the biochip filled with the 3D hydroscaffold, the pressure difference was measured at 10µL/min at several timepoints (fig 5). During days 0 to 11, the pressure values were found stable, around 60mbar, with spheroid growing up to 450µm diameter. Despite the increase in cell numbers, the hydraulic resistance remains stable, and the medium can circulate between the spheroids. From day 14 on, a strong proliferation was observed (fig 2), and spheroids began to form large aggregates, occupying most of the biochip. Eventually, the aggregates caused clogging at day 21, demonstrated by the pressure rise seen in figure 5.C. The pressure then goes back to normal when the aggregate is flushed away. This pressure increase, up to 1.5 bar, caused chip leakage and experimental failure. The chip failure gave information on the time of viability of the liver-on-a-chip model.
*Figure 5: Pressure evolution during the 14 first days of culture (a), and pressure measurement inside the chip at days 14 and 21 (b,c)*
[Read the entire article](https://www.mdpi.com/2306-5354/9/9/443)
## References
\[1\] Hughes, J.P.; Rees, S.; Kalindjian, S.B.; Philpott, K.L. Principles of early drug discovery. Br. J. Pharmacol. **2011**, 162, 1239–1249. \[[Google Scholar](https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?title=Principles+of+early+drug+discovery&author=Hughes,+J.P.&author=Rees,+S.&author=Kalindjian,+S.B.&author=Philpott,+K.L.&publication_year=2011&journal=Br.+J.+Pharmacol.&volume=162&pages=1239%E2%80%931249&doi=10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.01127.x)\] \[[CrossRef](https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.01127.x)\]
\[2\] Freyer, N.; Knöspel, F.; Strahl, N.; Amini, L.; Schrade, P.; Bachmann, S.; Damm, G.; Seehofer, D.; Jacobs, F.; Monshouwer, M.; et al. Hepatic differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells in a perfused three-dimensional multicompartment bioreactor. Biores. Open Access **2016**, 5, 235–248. \[[Google Scholar](https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?title=Hepatic+differentiation+of+human+induced+pluripotent+stem+cells+in+a+perfused+three-dimensional+multicompartment+bioreactor&author=Freyer,+N.&author=Kn%C3%B6spel,+F.&author=Strahl,+N.&author=Amini,+L.&author=Schrade,+P.&author=Bachmann,+S.&author=Damm,+G.&author=Seehofer,+D.&author=Jacobs,+F.&author=Monshouwer,+M.&publication_year=2016&journal=Biores.+Open+Access&volume=5&pages=235%E2%80%93248&doi=10.1089/biores.2016.0027)\] \[[CrossRef](https://doi.org/10.1089/biores.2016.0027)\]
\[3\] Merlier, F.; Jellali, R.; Leclerc, E. Online hepatic rat metabolism by coupling liver biochip and mass spectrometry. Analyst **2017**, 142, 3747–3757. \[[Google Scholar](https://scholar.google.com/scholar_lookup?title=Online+hepatic+rat+metabolism+by+coupling+liver+biochip+and+mass+spectrometry&author=Merlier,+F.&author=Jellali,+R.&author=Leclerc,+E.&publication_year=2017&journal=Analyst&volume=142&pages=3747%E2%80%933757&doi=10.1039/C7AN00973A)\] \[[CrossRef](https://doi.org/10.1039/C7AN00973A)\]
## Related products
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### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
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### Microfluidic Flow Control System
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
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### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
See product](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-chip-platform/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-biology-microscopy/)
## Expertises & Resources
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Microfluidic Application Notes
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Microfluidics Case Studies
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Microfluidics Case Studies A microfluidic Artery-on-a-Chip using Fluigent’s Microfluidic Flow Control System, the MFCS Read more
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Microfluidics Case Studies University of Rochester: A tissue chip platform for real-time sensing of secreted inflammatory markers using ARIA Read more
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- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
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**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [University of Cambridge: Microfluidic GUV production and testing ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## About The Keyser lab – University of Cambridge
[The Keyser Lab](https://people.bss.phy.cam.ac.uk/~ufk20/index.html) is a group of researchers at the Cavendish Laboratory, University of Cambridge, UK. Since its founding in 1874, the Cavendish Laboratory has been at the **forefront of discovery in physics, with a core focus on experimental physics supported by excellence in theory**. The department promotes **world-leading experimental and theoretical physics** in all its diversity. Scientists from the Keyser Lab study the physics of ions, macromolecules and particles, with a particular focus on particles in confined geometries at the single molecule/particle level. To exert maximum control over all parameters for their experiments, **they make use of several cutting-edge techniques** such as DNA self-assembly (origami), optical trapping, electrophysiology, and microfluidics and nanofluidics.
The team includes researchers with expertise in physics, engineering, physical chemistry, biochemistry/biology, and micro- and nanofabrication.
## What are Giant Unilamellar Vesicles (GUVs)?
[**Giant Unilamellar Vesicles**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/giant-unilamellar-vesicles-production/) (GUVs) are **micron-sized compartments composed of lipid bilayers**, serving as **models for cell membranes** or as **encapsulating structures for biological materials** within cell-like environments. These vesicles have **dimensions** ranging from **1 to 100 µm,** mimicking the size of cells. Like natural cell membranes, GUVs are constructed from lipids, predominantly phospholipids and cholesterol. The amphiphilic properties of these lipids enable them to **spontaneously arrange** into **spherical compartments when immersed in an aqueous solution**.
They offer the advantages of having **well-defined lipid compositions**, being **easy to image**, and being controlled systems for **studying** **transport processes**. These characteristics open the door to a variety of applications in biology and biomedicine, especially **membrane biophysics and synthetic biology.1,2**
Figure 1 Structure of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles 12
## Working principle of GUV production
Figure 2 Schematic representation showing the working principle of on chip production of liposomes using OLA3
In 2016, the [Dekker Laboratory](https://nynkedekkerlab.tudelft.nl/) from the Delft University of Technology developed **a novel microfluidics-based method called Octanol-Assisted Liposome Assembly (OLA)** to create **uniform**, **cell-sized** (5–20 mm) **GUVs** **with high encapsulation efficiency**. **Using Fluigent’s pressure-driven** [**MFCS-EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) **controller** with **the** [**Oxygen**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) **software tool**, an inner aqueous phase (IA) and an outer lipid-carrying 1-octanol phase (LO) were combined, resulting in **double-emulsion droplets** via hydrodynamic flow focusing. These droplets developed a side-connected 1-octanol pocket, which, due to interfacial energy minimization, separated to rapidly form fully assembled solvent-free liposomes. **Microfluidic GUV production addresses the persistent issue of residual oil in vesicle bilayers.**
This method allows researchers to generate GUVs with **higher monodispersity** and **greater size control** compared to traditional methods, and with **a faster process** than alternative microfluidic methods.3
- [
### Flow EZ™
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### MFCS™ series
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### OxyGEN
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
- [
### Complete system for producing liposomes reproducibly over the size range from 40 nm to 150 nm
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/liposome-nanoparticle-production-station/)
## Keyser Lab: Microfluidics for GUV generation for antimicrobial efficacy and biomimetic vesicle membrane testing
**Scientists from the University of Cambridge** integrated octanol-assisted liposome assembly into their microfluidic platforms (“lab on a chip” devices) for **quantifying drug permeation and antimicrobial efficacy on biomimetic vesicle membranes**.
In a first paper published in [*Lab on a Chip (2019)*](https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2019/lc/c8lc00932e), they reported on **a microfluidic platform for testing antimicrobial peptides on artificial vesicle membranes.** This platform produced vesicles with an encapsulated dye to assess the efficacy of antimicrobial peptides by measuring the time it takes for vesicles to lyse.4
This Giant Unilamellar Vesicle production technique also utilized [**Fluigent‘s MFCS-EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) and its accompanying software [**(Oxygen)**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) for fluid control. Vesicle formation and perfusion inlets were connected, and the microfluidic chip was loaded with an inner aqueous phase base stock. The outlet was connected to **Fluigent’s** [**2-Switch**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/), which can switch between open or closed configurations for waste removal. Vesicles flowed through a channel to the connector chip, and 1-octanol pockets pinched off to form droplets. Density-based separation removed vesicle production waste, and the vesicles were distributed to trapping chambers. Peptide doses were controlled, replacing the inner aqueous phase buffer, while maintaining a constant input pressure. The entire process was monitored under an inverted microscope.
**Validated with cecropin B on bacterial-mimicking membranes, the platform enabled the researchers to study over 1000 vesicles simultaneously.** The results showed dose-dependent disruption of vesicle membranes, demonstrating the platform’s potential for controlled, quantitative assessments of the efficacy and selectivity of antimicrobial peptides. **This microfluidic approach to GUV production** is suggested as a new standard for **pre-clinical development of membrane-active antimicrobials,** offering advantages in cost efficiency and parallelization.
Figure 3 Overview of the microfluidic platform for testing the efficacy of membrane active drugs on individual lipid vesicles
Figure 4 Representative sample of the data used to quantify the membranolytic activity of cecropin B Fluorescence microscopy images of trapped GUVs4
In another paper published in [*Biomembranes* *(2020)*](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0005273620301991), scientists from the University of Cambridge and the University of Exeter **produced GUVs** with tunable binary lipid mixtures **to determine lipid diffusion in OLA vesicles.5**
**The focus was on expanding the capabilities of this microfluidic approach to form GUVs with tunable binary lipid mixtures.** An [**MFCS-EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) equipped with a [**Fluiwell-4C**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/) reservoir kit with OLA solutions was connected to the microfluidic chip. The microfluidic GUV production method allowed for a high degree of control over vesicle sizes by adjusting pressures in different channels. This was possible due to the **high responsiveness, stability and repeatability of the pressure generated by the MFCS-EZ.** In addition, flow speed was successfully matched to the outlet channel length to prevent residual octanol attachment to vesicles.
This study employed **fluorescence recovery** after photobleaching to investigate **lipid lateral diffusion coefficients in GUVs produced by the microfluidic approach**, finding values within the expected range. Comparisons with electroformed vesicles indicated quantitative similarity in lipid diffusion coefficients. The results served as a **quantitative biophysical validation** of OLA-derived GUVs, enhancing the potential application of this **versatile platform in drug discovery, artificial cell production, and lipid membrane studies.**
Figure 7 Example boxplot of the lipid lateral diffusion coefficients obtained via Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching FRAP In this case the boxplot shows a comparison of DOPC vesicles produced by OLA and electroformation with varying concentrations of encapsulated P 188 5
Figure 5 Design of the microfluidic chip used to produce GUVs The chip has three inlets for the inner IA and outer aqueous OA and lipid octanol LO phases respectively 5
Figure 6 Confocal images of various lipid systems in different volume ratios
## Conclusion
**To produce Giant Unilamellar Vesicles, fluids were controlled using** [**Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/). Researchers from the [Keyser Lab](https://people.bss.phy.cam.ac.uk/~ufk20/index.html) (University of Cambridge) typically operated the chip with input pressures of 40 mbar for the inner aqueous phase and dissolved-lipid phases and 100 mbar for the outer aqueous phase. For precise flow measurements, [Fluigent Flow Unit](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/)s can be added on the fluidic path. **Microfluidic GUV production** also allowed researchers to **adjust the sizes of the generated vesicles** by adjusting the microfluidic pressures of the phases. **This degree of control is difficult to achieve using standard methods such as electroformation or traditional syringe pumps**.
## Testimonials
> “Microfluidics presents various advantages to researchers who need small volumes and high throughput in answering their scientific questions. In our lab, we use microfluidic devices for standardization and control of experimental parameters like concentration and timing. In the complex (biological) systems we are working on, the mentioned characteristics are fundamental in collecting reliable meaningful statistics, and microfluidics in combination with light microscopy offers just that. We also heavily rely on the ability to rapidly prototype devices, as we can design bespoke solutions at minimal production cost and time.”
>
> “We use the pressure-based pumps from Fluigent for experiments that require swift responsiveness when manipulating fluids, and fine tuning at low flow rates. We use the Fluigent systems during fabrication and running of the microfluidic chips. The ability to pump in air at high precision makes the Fluigent pressure-based systems ideally suited to selectively coat and functionalize micro-channels within a microfluidic network. After coating we then fill the devices with the experimental solutions and use the pressure controls to move fluids around, open and close valves and carefully time the introduction of small molecules in the experiments.“
>
> **Kareem Al Nahas, University of Cambridge**
## Expertises & Resources
- All
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidics Article Reviews
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Giant Unilamellar Vesicles (GUVs) Production using Microfluidics Read more
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Microfluidics Article Reviews A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidics for vaccine development Read more
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Microfluidic Application Notes Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## References
1. Naziris, N., Demetzos, C. (2021). Liposomes: Production Methods and Application in Alzheimer’s Disease. In: Vlamos, P. (eds) GeNeDis 2020. Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology, vol 1339. Springer, Cham.
2. Pereira, David & Valentão, Patrícia & Andrade, Paula. (2014). Nano- and Microdelivery Systems for Marine Bioactive Lipids. Marine Drugs. 12. 6014. 10.3390/md12126014.
3. Deshpande, S.; Caspi, Y.; Meijering, A. E. C.; Dekker, C. Octanol-Assisted Liposome Assembly on Chip. Nat Commun 2016, 7 (1), 10447.
4. Al Nahas, K.; Cama, J.; Schaich, M.; Hammond, K.; Deshpande, S.; Dekker, C.; Ryadnov, M. G.; Keyser, U. F. A Microfluidic Platform for the Characterisation of Membrane Active Antimicrobials. Lab Chip 2019, 19 (5), 837–844.
5. Schaich, M.; Sobota, D.; Sleath, H.; Cama, J.; Keyser, U. F. Characterization of Lipid Composition and Diffusivity in OLA Generated Vesicles. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) – Biomembranes 2020, 1862 (9), 183359.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction to responsiveness in microfluidics
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidics-definitions-and-advantages/) is a field that deals with the manipulation and control of small amounts of fluids, typically at the microliter or nanoliter scale, within microscale channels and structures.
In this context, we define **responsiveness** as **the time** it takes for **the pressure or the flow-rate** in the fluidic reservoir **to reach a given set point**.
Three different times can be defined to describe the responsiveness of a microfluidic system:
- The **response time** of a microfluidic system
- The **rising time** of a microfluidic system
- The **settling time** of a microfluidic system
Global responsiveness is the sum of these three times.
**Pump responsiveness in microfluidic is crucial** because these systems are often **used for precise and rapid handling of fluids** for various applications, such as chemical analysis, medical diagnostics, and biological research.
The ability to control and manipulate fluids with high responsiveness enables the **execution of specific tasks**, such as mixing, separation, and detection, with precision and efficiency.
[**Microfluidic Flow Controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components/lineup-series/) display major benefits in terms of responsiveness compared to other types of fluid handling solutions such as [syringe or peristaltic pumps.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## The response time of a microfluidic system
The **response time** is the elapsed time between the sending of a command from the computer system and the beginning of a response.
In microfluidics, response time is the **duration between a command and the the start of flow** (the first reaction of the microfluidic pump). When using a [**pressure controller**](https://www.fluigent.com/de/resources-support/expertise-de/expertise-reviews-de/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics-de/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/), flow will start once a sufficient pressure rise occurs in the fluidic reservoir. The electrical and mechanical response times of the hardware components such as valves need to be **as low as possible in order to decrease the response time.**
## The rising time of a microfluidic system
The **rising time** is the time a system takes to move from a starting value to a set value.
It gives an idea of **how quickly the system is able to change its value**. However, it does not give any information about the fact that the setpoint is reached.
Some microfluidic devices may have an excellent response time but also provide long transient states until flow is stable. This is typical of syringe pumps with particularly highly resistant systems as well as other pressure pumps with poorly developed algorithms.
In microfluidics, the rising time is the time elapsed to go **from 10% to 90%** (or sometimes 95%) of the requested pressure or flow-rate.
### 1. The settling time of a microfluidic system
The **settling time** is the elapsed time between the command and the moment the pressure or flow-rate **gets and stays** within a given range around the target value.
It gives information about how fast the system reaches the set-point in a stable way. The settling time **includes the response time, plus the rising time** and finally, the time needed to be within the specified error margin.
In microfluidics, the settling time is generally defined as the time needed for the response of flow to **reach and remain within an error band of ±5%** of the final value of the flow. This is a function of the delivery system as well as the fluidic system resistance.
### 2. How to improve responsiveness of microfluidic setups
Each microfluidic setup and experiment needs specific requirements, as responsiveness can be influenced by factors such as fluid properties, system architecture, and experimental conditions.
**Improving the responsiveness** of microfluidic pumps is crucial for achieving **precise** and **dynamic control** in fluidic systems. Here are **several strategies** to enhance the responsiveness of microfluidic pumps:
- **Optimizing [tubing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/microfluidic-tubing/) and connections**: when tubing used in the microfluidic system is of appropriate diameter and material, it will minimize friction and maintain a smooth flow. Extra attention should be given to leaks, kinks, or [air bubbles](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/avoid-air-bubbles/) in the tubing and connections which might hinder fluid flow.
- **Minimizing dead volume**: Dead volume refers to the volume of fluid that remains in the system and doesn’t contribute to the desired flow. Minimizing dead volume by using minimal tubing lengths and reducing the size of reservoirs is recommended.
- **Calibration and parameters control**: Regularly calibrating the microfluidic pump ensures accurate and consistent performance.
- **Using [high-performance valves](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/product-presentations/microfluidic-valves-smart-control-and-automation-of-your-fluidic-path-fluigent/)**: They can open and close quickly to achieve rapid changes in flow rates.
- **Implementing feedback control systems**: Integrating feedback control mechanisms to monitor and adjust pump performance in real-time can compensate for changes in environmental conditions or variations in fluid properties.
- **Temperature control**: Fluctuations in temperature can impact the viscosity of fluids and, consequently, the pump’s responsiveness in microfluidics. Implementing temperature control systems helps maintain a consistent environment.
- **Choosing the Right Pump Type**: Select a microfluidic pump that suits the requirements of your application. Different pump types ([syringe pumps, peristaltic pumps, pressure-driven pumps](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)) have varying response times and capabilities.
### 3. Advantages of pressure based fluid delivery solutions
When choosing a microfluidic instrument, it is important to not only look at the response time but also at the settling time to conduct the experiment at steady state as fast as desired.
**Pressure based flow controllers** present several benefits [**compared to other technologies**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)**.** The valves used in our instruments usually have response times below 10 ms, which is lower than most motors used in syringe pumps.
Very reactive systems such as the [**Flow-EZTM**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/flow-ez/) and its FASTAB technology have very low rising and settling times. The graph below shows the response times of a [**MFCS flow controller**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) with one of the best syringe pumps on the market.
## The impact of the pump responsiveness in microfluidic systems
One limitation to all systems comes from the fluidic system itself. The **microfluidic resistance and hydraulic capacitance** (coming from the elasticity that is present in the channel walls, especially when using PDMS) **induce a delay** in the response in terms of flow-rate.
One can think of it this way: at the beginning, before reaching steady state, one must pump enough energy into the compliant parts of the system so that all the energy coming from the source can be dedicated to moving the fluid.
If the resistance of the system is very high, it can take some time to do that first step. It is possible to define a typical response time like its electrical analog:
Typical response times for microfluidic systems range **from less than a microsecond to several seconds.** To get very fast response times, the best strategy is to use **very short and rigid connecting tubes.**
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- Expertise
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Expertise Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics The Importance of Flow Control Stability in Microfluidics Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Extended Capabilities of Pressure Driven Flow for Microfluidic Applications Read more
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Advantages of Pressure-Based Microfluidics
---
### [Success story of SEED Biosciences: Single cell impedance analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/success-story-of-seed-biosciences-single-cell-injection-and-impedance-analysis/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## SEED Biosciences: An EPFL Spin-Off
**SEED Biosciences** is an **award-winning Swiss startup**, **directed by Georges Muller (CEO) and David Bonzon (CTO) that provide innovative solutions for single-cell assays**. The team consisting of seven engineers and biologists that have developed with the Dispencell**: a compact pipetting robot engineered to host an impedance analyzer for detection of single cells** at high resolution and a low-pressure pump for gentle single-cell dispensing.
The core technology was developed and patented at EPFL, the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne, and the startup is now based at the Biopôle: a life sciences campus in Lausanne, Switzerland, home to more than 100 of the world’s most innovative life sciences companies and research groups.
## From proof of concept to a startup company
The story of SEED Biosciences started at EPFL at the Microsystems Laboratory 4 (LMIS4) and the Laboratory of Stem Cells Dynamic (LDCS). **The main research axes of LMIS4 are in BioMEMS, microfluidics, nanofluidics, and bioelectronic implants**. Their current focus is on applications in microsystems for handling, analysis, and culture of biological cells. Researchers at LDCS were experts in cell biology with strong skills in complex cell culture systems.
**Single-cell isolation is a key enabling step in many biological processes, including the production of biologics, cancer diagnosis, stem cell therapies, and personalized medicine.** A large proportion of scientists repeatedly dilute cells to maximize the occurrences of a given cell, which is a costly and time-consuming process. In order to offer an alternative method, LMIS4 proposed a few years ago the project of **dispensing exactly one cell on well plates in a fast and automated manner** to two Ph.D. students – David Bonzon and Georges Muller.
After several years of hard work, Bonzon and Muller were ready to unveil their device called Dispencell; they next created SEED Biosciences and, in association with other researchers, just published two articles in SLAS Technology, in which Fluigent instruments were used.
> “Several systems have been introduced over the past few years, but ours – called Dispencell – is the first to tick all the boxes. It is easy to use, doesn’t affect cell functions, can be sterilized, improves traceability, and more.”
The device is initially intended for the pharmaceutical industry but also has promising applications in personalized medicine. SEED Biosciences is currently carrying out a funding round to support its market launch.
[About SEED Biosciences](https://seedbiosciences.com/)
[Press article](https://actu.epfl.ch/news/new-device-delivers-single-cells-in-just-one-click/)
[About Biopole](https://www.biopole.ch/)
## Fluigent expertise for precise ans smooth pressure-based cell pipetting
In a paper first published in [*SLAS Technology (2020*](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2472630322010469)*),* Bonzon *et al.* reported the **modeling, designing, and testing of their disposable pipet tip that integrates a cell sensor**. They next demonstrated in a [second paper](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2472630322010457) *(SLAS Technology 2020)* the functionality of their system for by isolating single stem cells using an impedance-based procedure. We briefly describe the system and present partial results obtained in these papers.
### Cell injection and single cell impedance analysis
The cloning pipet was composed of the [**MFCS-FLEX (former MFCS-EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)**)**, a pressure-based microfluidic flow controller, an **impedance analyzer,** and **a control unit**. The data sent by the single cell impedance analyzer were analyzed using an internally developed software that controlled the micropump such that one cell was dispensed at a time.1
When a single cell is required, **the pressure-based flow controller with a range of -25 to +25 mbar starts the flow of the previously loaded media from the sensing tip**. The pumping system consists of a pressure/vacuum pump capable of both aspirating to load the tip and dispensing the media containing the particle.2
**Instrumentation for single cell dispensing A Single cell dispensing instrument embodied in a standard pipette shape B Overall block diagram of the instrument c User interface of the system controller d Pressure controller e Electronic circuit for impedance measurement**
In this paper, **the pipet is programmed to aspirate 20 μL of cloning media containing 104 cells/mL.** Next, the tip of the pipet is rinsed in media and then gently immersed into the center of a cloning culture dish filled with cell-type-specific culture media**. The user then clicks on the user interface to command the isolation of a single cell** and the recording of the impedance. **As a single cell passes through the Coulter aperture to flow into the culture dish, it leaves an electrical signature** that appears as a unique peak on the computer screen.
Simultaneously, **a sound is emitted to inform the user that a cell has been isolated**. At the end of the experiment, **each impedance profile is magnified and examined in detail**. A single and sharp peak is the signature of a single cell, whereas multiple peaks result from doublets, multiple cells, and aggregates.1
With these papers, **the researchers developed and validated an impedance-based procedure to isolate single stem cells** using an engineered cloning pipet composed of a [**Fluigent microfluidic flow controllers**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/), an impedance analyzer, and a control unit. **This technology permits the efficient and traceable isolation of living cells, stem cells, and cancer stem cells that can be individually expanded in culture and transplanted.**
“The Fluigent MFCS controller allowed us a quick and hassle-free development of our solution focusing on our real application! This has also been accelerated by the dedicated and professional support we got from the amazing Fluigent team.”
**Dr. David Bonzon – CTO & Cofounder – SEED BIOSCIENCES**
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-electrical-impedance-spectroscopy-package/)
## Expertises & Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
- [
### Webinar – Fast Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy for Characterization and Counting
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-fast-electrical-impedance-spectroscopy/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Impedance Measurement of Microbeads
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/impedance-spectroscopy-for-characterization-and-counting/)
## References
1. Muller, G. *et al.* Traceable Impedance-Based Dispensing and Cloning of Living Single Cells. *SLAS Technol.* **25**, (2020).
2. Bonzon, D. *et al.* Impedance-Based Single-Cell Pipetting. *SLAS Technol.* (2020) doi:10.1177/2472630320911636.
SEED Biosciences website: [seedbiosciences.com](http://seedbiosciences.com)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Creating a Microfluidic Cancer-on-Chip Platform using Fluigent’s High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/cancer-on-chip-platform-erasmus-biond/)
**Published:** January 10, 2024
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Introduction
Erasmus MC is a leading international academic hospital at the forefront of the medical field. Its staff, volunteers, and students collaborate to provide healthcare for patients with complex disorders, rare conditions, and urgent medical needs. Recognized as a world-class scientific research organization, Erasmus MC strives to improve their understanding of diseases and disorders, working towards prediction, treatment, and prevention. The institution’s guiding principle revolves around **the integration of biomedical research, clinical research,** and **health sciences** to form a **comprehensive approach to the advancement of healthcare**.
Bi/ond, an innovative and international biotechnology company based in the Netherlands, was created with the primary aim of harnessing the potential of microchips to drive biological innovation. Working in close partnership with biologists, the company focuses on the creation of reproducible and accurate biological models that help develop inclusive and precise cures for medical issues. By drawing on its expertise in microelectronics and its in-depth knowledge of biological solutions, Bi/ond succeeds in bridging the gap between the fields of biology and engineering.
These two entities have combined their knowledge and technologies to develop an innovative Cancer-on-Chip (CoC) platform for assessing response to treatments using Fluigent’s high throughput cell perfusion pack.
Learn more about the [Erasmus MC Cancer Institute](https://www.erasmusmc.nl/en/cancer-institute/patient-care/about-erasmus-mc-cancer-institute)
Learn more about [Bi/ond](https://www.gobiond.com/)
## Testimonial
“We started out as a novice to the field of organ-on-chip cultures. Fluigent was very helpful at this stage to get started and keep the system up and running. They were always there to answer questions. Therefore, the precision pumping system was a thing we did not have to worry about, and we could concentrate on our own expertise, the biological materials in the culture device.”
***Dr. D.C. (Dik) van Gent PhD***
***Universitair Hoofd Docent – Molecular Genetics***
## Why develop a Cancer-on-Chip (CoC) device to predict drug response?
### Overcome the challenges in cancer treatments
Searching for personalized therapy treatment for individual patients is a challenging process. The crux of the problem lies in precisely defining the optimal treatment regimen for each individual. Although many molecular biomarker-based treatment strategies have been employed in cancer therapy, their ability to reliably predict individual responses to chemotherapy remains limited in most cases. This means there is a pressing **need for ex vivo bioassays** **capable of effectively predicting a patient’s response** to specific treatments, thus facilitating the selection of the most appropriate and effective therapeutic approach to optimize life expectancy and quality of life.
Historically, cancer cell lines and animal models have played a key role in assessing the efficacy of chemotherapies. However, when it comes to predicting tumor sensitivity in individual patients, these preclinical models fall short. Their main utility lies in studying the general characteristics of specific tumor types or stages of disease, which fails to consider the heterogeneity found in cancer and undermines their predictive power for responses to individualized treatment. These models are also time-consuming to set up and use, which limits their usefulness.
One potential solution lies in the **direct assessment of drug responses** using patient tumor tissue slice cultures. These ex-vivo cultures maintain the entire tumor microenvironment, including immune cells, and preserve the original tissue’s architecture. However, the development of long-term ex vivo culture systems, particularly those lasting more than 7 days, remains a major hurdle. The difficulty lies in managing mechanical stress on tissue slices, which can lead to the disruption of tissue integrity and non-physiological behavior, as well as in ensuring optimal culture conditions.
Consequently, it is crucial to invest in the development of more physiologically relevant ex vivo tissue slice culture systems, such as a cancer-on-chip platform, which enables the prolonged culture of tumor slices under precisely controlled conditions. Such advances could revolutionize personalized medicine and dramatically improve cancer treatment by enabling more precise and effective therapies, tailored to each patient’s specific needs.
### The development of the organ-on-chip platform, an innovative technology
Despite considerable progress in computational and in vitro biology and toxicology over the past two decades, the failure rate of experimental drugs in clinical trials remains high, with **over 80% of drugs failing** to reach the market. Of these failures, 60% are attributed to lack of efficacy and 30% to toxicity. This situation has given rise to growing concerns about rising costs, wasted time, and ethical problems associated with animal experimentation, which often proves inadequate for predicting human reactions in a clinical context.
In addition, traditional live-cell experiments using cells grown on 2D substrates coated with serum or extracellular matrix molecules present limitations. Although they promote cell proliferation, they often fail to reproduce tissue-specific functions. Human organs, with their diverse functions, rely heavily on complex interactions between specialized cell types at well-defined interfaces, arranged in complex geometries and responding to specific microenvironments. Due to these issues, there is an urgent need for new modeling and testing platforms capable of better predicting human responses.
[Organ-on-a-chip (OoC)](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/webinars/organ-on-a-chip-towards-the-next-generation-of-cell-culture-platforms/) technology represents a significant advancement in **drug discovery** and **development**, offering new tools for disease modeling and characterization, as well as potentially more accurate methods for **assessing the toxicity and efficacy** of new compounds and therapies. The organ-on-a-chip concept involves reproducing the functions of human physiology or disease at organ level in microfluidic chips, using different cell types.
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) plays a crucial role in enabling precise control of the cellular microenvironment, presenting cells with mechanical and biochemical signals in a more physiologically relevant context. Working with liquid volumes in the microliter range, these models enable dynamic scaling and interaction between cells. In addition, [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) can use geometries and structures to mimic physiological length scales with concentration gradients and mechanical forces generated by fluid flow, thus recreating the in vivo microenvironment faced by cells. This biomimetic approach, involved in the cancer-on-chip platform used in this study, overcomes many of the limitations encountered with conventional tissue culture models. \[1\]
### How to combine OOAC and therapy assessments
The CoC platform provides continuous media perfusion, nutrient supply, waste removal, and the ability to collect samples for analysis. The aim of this platform is to develop a reproducible [culture system](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/) for assessing the sensitivity of (breast and prostate) tumors to chemotherapy, using living material that closely resembles the original tumor and allows long-term culture without significant changes in viability or tissue characteristics. In addition, the system must enable a direct assessment of response to treatment through microscopic imaging and analysis based on fluid sampling.
In this article, the Cancer-on-a-Chip (CoC) microfluidic platform described uses an 6-well plate with silicon-based microfluidic chips. These chips offer greater flexibility than glass-based culture systems, as they allow for the easy integration of sensors for pH detection, metabolite screening, and oxygen sensing. In addition, the silicon-based design enables parallelization, taking advantage of semiconductor technology to improve scalability, reproducibility, and cost-effective large-scale production.
One notable application of this new Cancer-on-a-chip platform is **personalized medicine**. It facilitates the in vitro culture of tumor tissue slices under precisely controlled conditions, enabling the prediction of in vivo tumor responses to therapy in individual patients. The platform has been successfully used to grow tumor slices, including patient-derived xenografts (PDX), and faithfully mimicked tumor cells.
## Use of the high throughput cell perfusion pack in the Coc platform to predict drug responses
### Mimicking the in vivo cancer tissue on a microfluidic chip
In this study, the microfluidic chips from Bi/ond are made of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film with embedded microfluidic channels, supported by a silicon (Si) frame. The chips’ top plates serve as an interface connecting the inlet and outlet, enabling media diffusion through the tissue-supporting membrane. The chip features four microfluidic fittings for the external pumping systems. The bottom part of the chip is designed to ensure compatibility with microscopes and oxygenation, achieved through PDMS window openings under the chips.
The microfluidic chips containing tumor tissue slices are housed in a [ComPLATETM](https://www.gobiond.com/complate/). The ComPLATETM, designed by [Bi/ond](https://www.gobiond.com/complate/), is a smart, compact, and reusable well-plate specifically tailored for cultivating complex tissues. The plate is comprised of a black 6-wells bottom plate, a transparent top plate to cover the chip, and a white fixation ring. This design helps create independent cultivation and the analysis of individual tumor slices.
The top plate of the ComPLATETM provides the option for single or double flow of media. Each well has sufficient space to accommodate the tissue slice’s growth over time. The microchannel and top interface facilitate constant perfusion and nutrient replenishment, enabling maintenance of the tissue slices while removing waste products. Furthermore, oxygenation of the tissue slices is enhanced through a gas exchange via the PDMS layer of the optical window.To monitor fluid flow rates inside each well throughout the culture period, the entire Cancer-on-a-Chip platform is connected to a [Fluigent Microfluidic Flow Control System.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/ "Fluigent Microfluidic Flow Control System.")
*A, Top view of the microfluidic chip illustrating its components: the PDMS film in which the microfluidics are embedded, and the silicon frame, which includes the inlet and outlet to the channels in the film. B, Vertical cross-section of the microfluidic chip. C, Representation of the CoC platform. D, ComPLATETM device. E, Cross-section of CoC illustrating the diffusion and perfusion toward the tissue slice.*
Figure 1 Microfluidic CoC device design and overview
### Using Fluigent technology to ensure a high throughput cell perfusion
[The Fluigent ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)Cell Perfusion Pack is specially designed for high-throughput experiments. It has been carefully optimized for maximum efficiency in multiple-chip perfusions, enabling the simultaneous growth of multiple organ models in one incubator, which is ideal for the cancer-on-a-chip platform. The package includes a compact 8-channel pressure controller, a flow platform, and reservoir support that can be easily integrated into an incubator track. The user-friendly interface makes it easy to set up and operate the system, creating the proper physiological conditions for effortless long-term experiments. The system is highly reproducible and scalable.
To achieve continuous perfusion, an [FLPG Plus](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/) pumping system was used as the pressure source. The flow rate was then maintained using the [MFCSTM-EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) pressure-controlled microfluidic flow control system. [Flow sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) (FLOW UNIT-S) were used to monitor flow throughout the culture using Fluigent software. A precise inlet flow rate of 5 µl/minute was used to perfuse PDX tissue slices through the chip’s upper and lower channels. CoC tissue was cultured under optimal conditions in a humidified atmosphere with 5% CO2 at 37°C, and the culture medium was renewed every 3 days for up to 2 weeks.
Figure 2 CoC platform connected to the high throughput cell perfusion package
### Comparison with an ex-vivo model
One of the aims of this study is to compare this innovative cancer-on-chip platform with a more traditional ex-vitro model. This traditional model consists of a cell culture in a 3mL customized culture with medium 6-well standard plates on an orbital shaker at 60 rpm. This will demonstrate the added value of using a platform based on [Organ-On-](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)a-Chip technology compared to more conventional methods. This will be made possible by carrying out various tests and comparing the data obtained by these two methods. These tests consist of studying the treatment response of tumors, long-term tumor tissue slice culture, and gene expression analysis.
## Partial results
### Treatment response of tumors
To assess the validity of the platform, a crucial question is whether in vivo treatment responses can be predicted by treatment responses. This validation was carried out using the cisplatin treatment on PDX breast cancer tumors (cisplatin-sensitive and cisplatin-resistant) with three biological replicates each.
To verify that the platform retained the essential features of tumor-associated cell morphology and proliferative capacity, untreated tumor slices at day 0 and day 7 were evaluated.
The effect of cisplatin treatment on cell proliferation and death was assessed in tissue slices grown under normal ex vivo conditions and in the CoC device. Cisplatin-sensitive tumor slices in the platform showed a significant increase in apoptotic cells and a notable decrease in replicating cells upon cisplatin treatment. In contrast, cisplatin-resistant PDX tissue slices showed no significant changes in either signal compared with untreated controls. \[2\]
The response to cisplatin treatment observed in the Cancer-on-a-Chip platform correlates with known tumor responses in in vivo and ex vivo cultures, suggesting its reliability for drug response analysis. Interestingly, breast PDXs cultured in the CoC platform showed a more robust response to cisplatin treatment compared with the ex vivo culture method, indicating better drug delivery in tumor slices with the platform.
To evaluate the performance of the Cancer-on-chip device in another tumor type, the PC82 androgen-dependent prostate tumor was used under the same conditions. The results led to the same conclusion as the breast tumor slices. \[3\]
In conclusion, CoC cultures accurately reproduced tumor responses to two different treatments (prostate and breast) in breast and prostate tumor models known to be sensitive in vivo.
Figure 3: Prediction of therapy response using cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant PDX in ex vivo and CoC platforms. A, Representative EdU (proliferation) and TUNEL (apoptose) staining of cisplatin-sensitive breast PDX. B, Quantification of the fraction of EdU-positive and TUNEL-positive cells showing breast PDXs were sensitive to cisplatin. C, Representative EdU and TUNEL staining of cisplatin resistant breast PDX. D, Quantification of the fraction of EdU-positive and TUNEL-positive cells showing breast PDXs were insensitive to cisplatin therapy, thereby validating the application of CoC for therapy response for patient tumors. E, Analysis of DNA damage response in cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant PDX treated with cisplatin. Cisplatin treatment induced more double-strand breaks in cisplatin-sensitive PDX than in cisplatin-resistant PDX. F, Scatter plot showing 53BP1 foci count per cell in cisplatin-sensitive and -resistant PDX.
### Long-term tumor tissue slice culture
Longer culture times are essential for studying therapeutic responses that require longer incubation periods-more than one week-such as the development of therapeutic resistance or clonal outgrowth. The main limitation observed in ex vivo culture is the preservation of optimal proliferative capacity and tissue architecture.
To address this, a study was carried out using breast tumor slices from five independent patient-derived xenografts. These slices were cultured for 14 days in the Cancer-on-a-Chip platform and, in parallel, in the ex vivo 6-well plate. After 7 days of culture, similar rates of cell proliferation in the CoC device compared with day 0 were observed, but slightly slower proliferation in the ex vivo condition. TUNEL staining revealed a slight increase in cell death in the ex vivo system compared with the CoC platform at day 7.
Notably, these differences became more pronounced in extended 14-day cultures. The platform showed better preservation of tumor tissue architecture and cell proliferation than the ex vivo culture system. In contrast, the ex vivo condition showed a significant decrease in proliferation at day 7 compared with PDX tumors at day 0, whereas no significant difference was observed between day 7 and day 0 for the platform, indicating slightly slower cell proliferation in ex vivo culture compared with CoC.
These results underline the superiority of the Cancer-on-chip device for prolonged culture times (beyond 7 days) of tumor tissue slices compared to the ex vivo system (better preservation of cell integrity and cell proliferation).
Figure 4: Breast PDX tumor tissue slices cultured in ex vivo condition and in CoC device for up to 14 days. *A, Quantification of the fraction of EdU-positive and TUNEL-positive cells for 5 breast PDX tissue slices cultured for up to day 7 (B) and day 14 (C). D, Representative image showing breast PDX tumors labeled with geminin (red nuclei) and DAPI (blue nuclei). E, QIBC analysis of three independent breast PDX tumors with more than 3,000 cells analyzed for each are shown in each condition. F, Quantification of geminin-positive cells showed CoC at day 7 had similar cell proliferation profile as in day 0 than ex vivo condition.*
### Gene expression analysis
To assess the impact of CoC culture on gene expression changes, analysis using RT-PCR and whole transcriptome sequencing was performed. Tumor-specific gene pathways in PDX breast tumors cultured ex vivo and in the Cancer-on-a-Chip platform were examined. Surprisingly, there were **no statistically significant changes** in these pathways, suggesting **minimal alterations** in tumor growth characteristics under both conditions. Next, whole transcriptome sequencing of PDX breast tumors was performed. Genes were identified as differentially expressed on day 7 ex vivo and on days 7 and 14 under CoC culture conditions. 150 human genes are differentially expressed in day 7 ex vivo tumor slices, far more than the 30 human genes differentially expressed in day 7 CoC and the 14 human genes in day 14 CoC.
To understand the reasons for the differences observed, various tests studying cell cycle progression and apoptosis were carried out. They led to the conclusion that **ex vivo culture conditions induced greater immune activation and DNA damage after 7 days**, making the CoC system a **more accurate** **representation** of the original tumor and the preferred choice for studying responses to therapies.
## Conclusion
The researchers developed a **microfluidic CoC platform capable of maintaining cell viability, proliferation and tissue structure in breast cancer PDX slices for at least 14 days.** This platform successfully predicted responses to cisplatin therapy for breast cancer and antiandrogen therapy for PDX prostate cancer tumor slices. To fully establish its potential as an in vitro diagnostic test for therapy selection, it will require clinical validation using biopsies from patients receiving the same chemotherapy.Although the current study has focused on PDX models of breast and prostate cancer, this Cancer-on-a-Chip platform also holds promise for other solid tumors. Its ease of use and small footprint make it a versatile tool for ex vivo studies, including functional genomics, drug screening and personalized medicine research.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies
- Interviews & Testimonials
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [ Interviews & Testimonials Panel Discussion & Interviews – Microfluidics & Organ-On-Chips Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-panel-discussion-interviews-2022/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## Related Webinars
- [
### Webinar – Organ on a Chip Towards the Next Generation of Cell Culture Platforms
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-a-chip-and-cell-culture-platforms/)
- [
### WEBINAR: An one-of-a-kind Organ-on-chip platform
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Related products
- [
### The most efficient system for creating high throughput cell perfusion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
- [
### Mimic Microphysiological Conditions in Organ-on-a-Chip Studies
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
- [
### MFCS™ series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
- [
### FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
- [
### FLPG Plus
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
- [
### Fluiwell series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
## References
\[1\] Microfluidic white paper – A guide to Organs-on-Chips technology, Fluigent
\[2\] Naipal KA, Verkaik NS, Sanchez H, van Deurzen CH, den Bakker MA, Hoeijmakers JH, et al. Tumor slice culture system to assess drug response of primary breast cancer. BMC Cancer 2016;16:78
\[3\] van Weerden WM, van Steenbrugge GJ, van Kreuningen A, Moerings EP, de Jong FH, Schr€oder FH. Assessment of the critical level of androgen for growth response of transplantable human prostatic carcinoma (PC-82) in nude mice. J Urol 1991;145:631–4
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [University of Maryland: Microfluidic System for Robotic that can Play Nintendo](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/this-is-a-customer-case-study/)
**Published:** December 17, 2021
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
Playing Mario with a 3D Printed Soft Robotic Hand with “Integrated Fluidic Circuitry”
## Microfluidic system for robotic
Playing Mario with a 3D Printed Soft Robotic Hand with “Integrated Fluidic Circuitry”
## Introduction
Over the past decade, the field of **soft robotics** has established itself as distinctively suited for applications that would be difficult or impossible to realize using traditional, rigid robots1,2. “**Soft robotics” and microfluidic system for robotic** center on creating new types of flexible, **inflatable robots that are** **powered using water or air, and integrated fluidic circuitry** rather than electricity. Using compliant materials actuated by fluidic means brings several benefits**,** particularly in terms of safety for human-robot interactions, lower costs, and adaptability in geometry for manipulating complex and/or delicate objects1 (for instance, soft robotic sleeves for pumping ailing hearts). However, the emergence of microfluidic systems for robotics has presented **new challenges** associated with controlling the underlying fluidics of such systems. Fabrication of **fully-embedded soft robots** (i.e. including soft actuators; body features; and integrated fluidic circuitry) can be challenging depending on the manufacturing method. **In addition to manufacturing challenges,** **stable and fast fluidic control is often a prerequisite for the great functioning of soft robots**.
Ryan Sochol’s group addressed manufacturing challenges by developing a novel strategy for additively manufacturing unified soft robotic microfluidic systems with **fully integrated fluidic circuitry** in a single print run via multimaterial **“PolyJet three-dimensional (3D) printing microfluidics”**. It is an inkjet-based process by which multiple photoreactive materials are dispensed in parallel to produce multi-material 3D objects in a line-by-line, layer-by-layer manner1. **To ensure stable flow and fast-response actuation, the group used** [Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers and dedicated software.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/)
In a microfluidic research paper published in 2021, the group designed several soft robots and investigated their operation performances. Here, we summarize partial results obtained with the soft robotic hand.
Maryland University students playing Mario with microfluidic system for robotics made with Fluigents devices
## Fluigent microfluidic system for robotic
Soft robotic turtles and a soft robotic hand were first produced by PolyJet 3D printing, and finite element analysis simulations were performed to predict the input pressures required for robot actuation. In addition, circuits elements characterization was performed using [Fluigent Flow Units](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/). More information about the design of the soft robots as well as their characterization can be found [in the paper1](https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abe5257).
To experiment the operation of the soft robotic hand with integrated fluidic circuitry, **the group programmed the hand in order to play the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) Super Mario Bros**. video game in real time using a controller. Figure 1 illustrates the setup used for fluidic actuation. **All experiments were performed using Fluigent pressure controllers along with the corresponding software.** Pressure controllers are connected to two reservoirs, which are connected to inputs of the fluidic hand. Note that in the paper [Fluigent MFCS](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) were used, but we now provide the [Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/), more compact, and permitting local control if needed.
Robotics microfluidic setup using Fluigents instruments
An input is kept at constant pressure (PSource = Ps) while the second input is dynamically regulated for actuating the hand (PGate = Pg) (figure below). Pneumatic experiments are performed by running a custom script via the [Fluigent MAESFLO software (now OxyGEN)](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=oxygen) and Fluigent script module to dynamically regulate the Pg input while maintaining a constant Ps. The soft robotic hand is fixed in place using a clamp, while the base of each fingertip is affixed to the corresponding NES controller button.
Conceptual illustrations and analogous circuit diagrams of the four primary states based on distinct *P*G magnitudes while a *P*S input remains constant ## Partial results
In this work, a constant Ps input of 18.5 kPa is used, allowing for four Pg states: (i) Pg,Off ≤ 5 kPa, none of the buttons are pressed—Mario is immobile (Fig. 3 i); (ii) Pg,Low ≥ 20 kPa, the right button of the D-pad is pressed—Mario walks (Fig. 3 i); (iii) Pg,Medium ≥ 40 kPa, the B button is also pressed—Mario runs (Fig. 3 iii); and (iv) Pg,High ≥ 60 kPa, all of the buttons are pressed—Mario jumps (Fig. 3 iv)1. It is possible to observe **fast response time** and **high pressure stability** for all states.
By taking into considerations time required when executing inflations or deflations in designing the program, the authors managed to **complete the first level of Super Mario Bros. in real time, as shown in the short movie below**!
## Conclusion
The study successfully demonstrated the use of a microfluidic system for robotic applications. The system, which used Fluigent pressure-based flow controllers, Fluigent Flow Units, and dedicated software, provided precise and fast actuation, surpassing conventional methods. This **microfluidic system for robotic** control not only enhanced the efficiency and responsiveness of the soft robotic hand but also opens new possibilities in the field of soft robotics by allowing for more complex movements and tasks.
> “Typically, each appendage of a soft robot would typically need its own control line, which can limit portability and usefulness, but by 3D printing soft robots with integrated microfluidic circuits and networks, they can be controlled based on just one pressure input. Enhancing soft robot autonomy in this manner is critical for our emerging applications like soft robotic surgical tools. Controlling soft robots based on a single pressure input is founded on the ability to precisely regulate the pressure magnitude at set times – a capability that we found the MFCS and accompanying Maesflo software (now OxyGEN) was uniquely suited for accomplishing.”
>
> Prof. Ryan D. Sochol
## References
1. *Hubbard, J. D. et al. Fully 3D-printed soft robots with integrated fluidic circuitry. Sci. Adv. **7**, (2021).*
2. *Sochol, R. D. et al. 3D printed microfluidic circuitry via multijet-based additive manufacturing. Lab Chip **16**, 668–678 (2016).*
## More information
- [Keyser lab website](https://people.bss.phy.cam.ac.uk/~ufk20/)
- [Cambridge Cavendish Laboratory](https://www.phy.cam.ac.uk/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Microfabrication of Microfluidic Chips: Materials and Methods ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/)
**Published:** January 4, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- Silicon or glass
- Polymers
- Paper
- Hydrogel
## Silicon or glass microfluidic chips
**Inorganic materials** were the first to be used in the microfabrication of microfluidic chips, and were previously used in applications with microchannels such as glass or quartz capillaries for gas chromatography and capillary electrophoresis (CE). With the introduction of the MEMS technology, the first-generation of [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) were prepared in silicon or glass and processed with standard photolithography.
Glass is an optically transparent insulator, while silicon is opaque. Glass and silicon are [**highly rigid materials, have high stability**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) at high temperatures and are highly resistant to organic solvents. Moreover, as glass/silicon chips are usually produced via photolithography, they can reach sub micrometer channel dimensions with high reproducibility. Compared to standard CE, on-chip CE is lower in cost, easier to parallel, and offers valve-free injection (utilizing the electroosmotic flow), which can separate analytes within seconds. Because of the high thermostability and solvent compatibility, on-chip reactions and droplet formation are also well-suited applications with silicon/glass.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
Significant problems with using these materials for the microfabrication of microchips is high cost and the use of dangerous chemicals, which requires well-trained lab technicians at expensive facilities. These chips are also not suited for low/medium scale production and are not permeable to gas when in glass. Though they are compatible with biological samples, they are not suitable for cell culture.
Finally, high rigidity makes these materials fragile, and additional care is required when manipulating them.
These limitations led to the development of other chip materials that can be easily fabricated and are compatible with broader biological applications.
[Why should you choose a glass or silicon microfluidic chip?](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
### Production Methods for Silicon Microfluidic Chips: Photolithograpy
Several methods have been developed for the microfabrication of microfluidic chips with silicon, including bulk micro-machining, surface micromachining and buried channel methods.
- **Bulk micro-machining** is a photolithography method to pattern desired micro features on a substrate (here, silicon)3. Two etching methods exist: dry etching and wet etching. Dry etching refers to the removal of material by exposing it to a bombardment of ions (usually a plasma of reactive gases) that dislodge portions of the material from the exposed surface. In wet etching, the wafer is typically immersed in a bath of etchant. For instance, buffered hydrofluoric acid (BHF) is used commonly to etch silicon dioxide over a silicon substrate. After etching, another substrate such as glass or silicon is bonded to the patterned piece to form enclosed channels, chambers and other features.
- **Surface micromachining** for the fabrication of microfluidic chips builds microstructures by deposition and etching structural layers over a substrate4. It is grounded in the use of photolithography to define patterns that are selectively subjected to chemical processing steps that either modify the properties of the silicon substrate or define the geometries of overlying thin films deposited on the substrate. SiO2 and Si3N4 are typically used as “sacrificial” materials (removed material) while polysilicon (poly-Si) is used to form the structural layer1.
- **The buried channel technique** is a bonding-free approach. The microstructures are constructed by trench etching, coating of the sidewalls of the trench, removal of the coating at the bottom of the trench, and isotopically etching of the channel into the bulk of the silicon substrate5. Additional information on the production of microfluidic chips with this technique can be found in the paper written by de Boer *et al.*5 The structures can be sealed by deposition of a suitable layer that closes the trench.
*Figure 1 Arbitrarily oriented features etched deep into silicon using anisotropic dry etching techniques*3***Figure 2 SEM pictures of several types of microchannels fabricated with left bulk micromachining and wafer bonding middle surface micromachining and right buried channel technique*
Methods of fabricating glass microchannels are not as diverse and advanced as silicon, and are mostly fabricated with mechanical, wet or dry etching approaches.
### Silicon and glass: the bottom line
- Silicon and glass were the first materials used in microfluidics
- Inspired from MEMS technology, silicon can easily reach sub micrometer channel resolution
- They are highly rigid materials, have high stability at high temperature and are highly resistant to organic solvents
- The high production costs motivated the development of chips using other materials
## Fabrication of Polymers Microfluidic Chips
Polymer-based microfluidic chips were introduced several years after silicon and glass chips. The wide variety of polymers grants great flexibility in choosing a suitable material with specific properties. In the microfabrication of [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/), polymers offer an attractive alternative to glass and silicon as they are easy to access, usually less expensive, and have suitable physical properties.
Many polymers can be used to build chips, such as polystyrene (PS) polycarbonate (PC), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) or polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Polymers can be classified into three different groups: elastomers, thermoplastics, and thermosets.
### Elastomers microfluidic chip
Elastomers are amorphous polymers maintained above their glass transition temperature so that considerable molecular reconformation-without breaking of covalent bonds- is feasible. At ambient temperature, such materials are relatively compliant and deformable: they can stretch or compress when external force is exerted and return to the original shape when the external force is withdrawn.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/drop-seq-chip/)Though PDMS is useful for easy and fast prototyping, soft lithography is not well suited for mass production. In the microfabrication of microfluidic chips, reproducibility is a challenge, and it is time-consuming to make a large number of devices. PDMS is also hydrophobic.
As a consequence, hydrophobic analytes can adsorb onto the PDMS surface, potentially interfering with analysis. Surface treatments can be performed to mitigate issues, but can also be time-consuming, and the treatment can lose its efficiency over time. They are not suitable for high-pressure operations as higher pressures alter channel geometry, making the treatment prone to leaking at elevated pressure.
### Soft lithography for the production of PDMS microfluidic chips
*Figure 3: (A) The mold master is produced by patterning photosensitive resin exposed through a photomask (high resolution transparency) that contains the design of the microchannel. (B) Liquid PDMS is poured over the master and cured for 1 h at 70°C. (C) The PDMS replica is peeled from the master, and (D) the replica is sealed to a flat surface to enclose the channels. The overall process takes about 24 h6.*
PDMS is the material of choice for fast production of [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/), and **PDMS chips are thus commonly used in laboratories**, especially in the academic field.
The most popular fabrication method for producing PDMS chips is soft lithography. In this method, liquid PDMS is mixed with a curing agent to crosslink the polymer. The amount of curing agent used defines the hardness of the final product. The whole solution is subsequently cast over a master (typically silicon-based) mold (figure 2). The master is placed in an oven at around 60°C for 1 h to 4 h to allow crosslinking.
Once cured, the PDMS is easily peeled off from the master mold. At this point, open channels are obtained, and the PDMS needs to be bonded to another surface to form enclosed channels.
It can be bonded to several materials, such as glass or back to PDMS. This is done by performing a plasma treatment on the surfaces to be bonded (most common method), or mechanical or chemical bonding.
### Thermoplastics polymers
Thermoplastics are widely used materials in the microfabrication of [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) as they are transparent materials that allow microscopic analysis. Thermoplastics are highly crosslinked polymers that can retain their shape after cooling. Thermoplastics are usually fabricated by thermomolding that allows the production of thousands of replicas at high rate and low cost, which is excellent for commercial production. Using them, it is possible to reach sub micrometer channel dimensions.
Depending on their application, the surface of thermoplastics can be modified by coating or surface grafting. Covalently modified surfaces are generally more stable for thermoplastics than PDMS. They can be easily integrated with electrodes for flexible circuits.
**Poly-methyl methacrylate (PMMA) microfluidic chip**
PMMA is a low-cost polymer with superior mechanical strength, electrical insulation, and transparency compared to PDMS. PMMA shows high biocompatibility and is a suitable candidate for biomedical and disposable point-of-care devices. The microfabrication of PMMA microfluidic chips is typically done using a hot embossing technique, but mass production of PMMA devices can be achieved with an injection molding method that facilitates shorter fabrication cycle times1.
Most production methods for thermoplastics are excellent for commercial production, but not economical for prototype development. As thermoplastics are barely permeable to gas, their sealed microchannels and microchambers are unsuitable for long-term cell study or cell culture.
**Thermoset polyester (TPE) microfluidic chip**
A thermoset is a polymer that irreversibly becomes rigid when heated. Initially, the polymer is a liquid or soft solid. When heated or radiated, the thermosetting molecules cross-link to form a rigid network that cannot soften before decomposition. These materials are normally stable (even at high temperatures), resistant to most solvents, and optically transparent.
Microfluidic chips can be entirely fabricated in thermosetsusing injection molding methods. Thermosets usually have a higher rigidity compared to elastomers and thermoplastics. However, due to their high cost, the microfabrication of microfluidic chips with thermosets remains limited.
### Why Use Polymers?:
- Introduced several years after silicon and glass
- A wide variety of polymers exist, granting great flexibility in choosing a suitable material with specific properties
- PDMS is one of the most commonly used material for chip fabrication
- Thermoplastics, such as PMMA, are favored for microfluidic chip mass production
## Paper Microfluidic Chips Fabrication
Paper is a highly porous matrix made of cellulose, excellent in wicking liquids. When certain areas of a paper are modified hydrophobically, an aqueous solution applied to the paper will be precisely guided through the hydrophilic region by the capillary effect.
### Elastomers
The microfabrication of paper-based microfluidic chips is relatively simple and flexible, allowing to balance between channel resolution and cost. The utilization of paper as chip material leads to several advantages. The microchannel can act as a passive pump dispenser (without the need of power or external components); paper is one of the cheapest materials for [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/), and fabrication by printing is convenient and low-cost. Paper-based microfluidic devices are promising in portable and low-cost analysis, especially for bioassay-based personalized medical care.
Working with such materials brings several challenges. Channel dimensions are wide (not lower than 200 µm, while 20 μm wide channels are common for other materials) and some liquids with low surface tension may not be well confined into hydrophobic channels. It is also not suited for operating with an external pump or dispenser. As a result, few microfluidic applications have been demonstrated on paper chips.
### Production of microfluidic chips with paper methods
Many methods exist for the microfabrication of microfluidic chips with paper, including wax printing, inkjet printing, but also flexographic printing, screen-printing, wax screen-printing, paper cutting, and even photolithography.
Most of these techniques, except paper cutting, rely on patterning paper with hydrophobic materials to define the microchannel boundaries and confine the fluid flow. In the wax printing process, the filter paper is patterned with microchannels using a wax pen and a template ruler (figure 3 b). The patterned paper is subsequently placed in an oven, causing the wax to melt and penetrate the paper, forming hydrophobic walls and causing liquid flows inside the edges of the wax wall.Because of the need for mass abrication of microfluidic chips, a method based on flexographic printing has been developed7.
A substrate paper made of polystyrene is fixed to an impression roll. The ink is applied into the reservoir by a pipette (figure 3c). The ink transfers onto an anilox roll covered by thousands of small cells. When the printing process starts, the anilox roll accelerates to the printing speed and rotates to distribute the ink. Then, the plate and impression roll rotate through one revolution to transfer the ink onto the paper substrate.
*Figure 4 Paper based microfluidics was first proposed by Martinez et al who used chromatography papers soaked in photoresist for exposure under ultraviolet UV light to form the hydrophobic barrier required for fluid b In the wax printing method wax needs to be printed on a hydrophilic paper followed by heating that helps the wax to penetrate into the paper and creates the boundaries of the channel c A Flexographic unit that enables large scale fabrication of µPADs*
### Why use paper for a microfluidic chip?
- Development of paper-based microfluidic devices began in the early 21st century
- It meets a need for inexpensive and portable medical diagnostic systems
- Channel dimensions are wide compared to other materials (not lower than ~ 200 µm)
- Not suited for operating with external pumps
## Integration of hydrogels in microfluidic chips
Hydrogels are widely used in the microfabrication of [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/). Hydrogels are 3D networks of hydrophilic crosslinked polymer chains that span in aqueous medium. Heating, exposure to UV light and using chemical chelators are common methods to have the hydrogel chains crosslinked to form desired networks. They are highly absorbent (they can contain over 90% water) natural/synthetic polymeric networks and highly porous, allowing for molecules or particles to diffuse through.
Hydrogels are the perfect material for encapsulating cells because of their hydrophilic nature, high permeability, transparency, and their biocompatibility. They have been used in many applications such as cell-to-cell interaction, drug delivery, artificial tissue constructs, and regenerative medicine1. In recent years, with the fabrication of microfluidic chips, a variety of microfluidic 3D cell culture platforms have been developed for recreating complex and well-controlled 3D microenvironments that mimic the biological niche.
In particular, culturing cells in hydrogels has shown to be useful in helping cells retain their native tissue-specific functions by mimicking the *in vivo* 3D tissue environment. The combination of 3D-hydrogel cell cultures with microfluidics offers several advantages including appropriate microscale dimensions that are comparable to *in vivo* microstructures, the establishment of chemical gradients to create dynamic 3D microenvironments, and creation of reproducible medium-matrix biointerfaces8.
**Figure 5 : (A) 3 microdevices in a Petri dish containing a central culture chamber (detailed in C) and 6 channels. (B) One microdevice is filled with (yellowish) collagen hydrogel flowing to the microchamber from the right middle channel and blue-colored water perfused through the two lateral microchannels. (C) Culture medium perfused through the lateral microchannels. (D) Cellular monitoring with fluorescent dye in the microdevice9.**
### Production of hydrogels microfluidic chips
Several methods exist for the integration of hydrogels in [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/), including a soft lithography-based approach with sacrificial or reusable templates, photopolymerization, and local integration10. Over the past decade, hydrogels, such as agarose, Matrigel, polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEG-DA) [alginate](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microcapsule-synthesis/), and [chitosan](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/chitosan-microcapsules-production/), have been frequently used in the microfabrication of microfluidic chips.
Gels like agarose are commercially available and relatively inexpensive, thus easy to obtain. Moreover, gels are malleable and available in various designs and size calibrations, allowing for quantitative fabrication.
- Soft lithography for gel micro-fabrication is similar to the soft lithographic methods explained in the polymers section. As most gel materials can maintain a liquid state before they solidify into a gel state, liquid gel can be poured into a designed template and replicate the structure from the mold. The solidified gel can easily be peeled off from a photoresist or PDMS molds. Using this method, hydrogels can be used in the production of microfluidic chips or cell confinement structures. The traditional soft lithography microfluidic method can easily fabricate a device with two-dimensional complexity or quasi-2D layered structure upon exact placement of each element. For applications demanding 3D architectures but not accurate channel size, a 3D and degradable template coated with hydrogel can be produced. The template is subsequently sacrificed to generate microfluidic structures in the bulk materials. More information can be found in the paper written by Zhang *et al.*10
- In the local integration method, the creation of gel structures is performed in a microfluidic device. Because of the laminar nature of flow in microfluidic systems, various gels can be co-introduced in a microchannel, and these flows form a laminated structure (figure 4b). In this method, for the microfabrication of [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/), the microfluidic channel is thus divided into multiple layers separated by microslabs of hydrogels. A solidification process is finally performed. Many studies recently used flow-solidification based gel integration methods to produce hydrogels.
- In the photopolymerization technique, for integrating microstructures into the microsystem, a UV light is employed to construct gel structures with high spatial resolution. Uniform exposure, printing with a mask and directed writing are the three common types of photopolymerization used to form the structured gel components in a device. High spatial resolution and high aspect ratio features are achievable using this method1.
Figure 6: 3-D vascular network that was fabricated using a 3-D printed sacrificial template followed by encapsulation in ECM and dissolving in lattice cell media. (b) Formation of microslabs of hydrogel by colaminar flows in a microchannel 1
### About Hydrogels
- Hydrogels, such as agarose, matrigel, polyethylene glycol diacrylate (PEG-DA), alginate, and chitosan, have been used in the fabrication of microfluidic chips, mostly for biological studies
- Recently, a variety of microfluidic 3D cell culture platforms in hydrogels have been developed
- They allow experimenters to recreate complex and well-controlled 3D microenvironments that mimic the biological niche
- They are easy to obtain and can produce quantitative fabrication
---
## Conclusion
Since its introduction, [microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) continues to advance with technology and expand the fields of application. In terms of chip materials and functions, while glass and silicon have important uses, polymeric materials have become the material of choice for the microfabrication of [microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/). Hydrogel and papers are recently-used materials in microfluidics for specific applications.
Two tables from the paper of Ren and al. summarize various properties of each material and their typical applications. This study provides an overview of material properties and applications. A detailed study of materials should be performed to ensure proper function for a specific applications.
*Table 1: Summary of properties as a function of the material2.*
*Table 2: Summary of application as a function of the material2.*
### How to choose a microfluidic chip
If you wonder how to [choose a microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/ "choose a microfluidic chip"), here are some key information to consider:
- Transparent materials are favored to enable optical observation/analysis.
- Materials with a low autofluorescence are crucial for optimal detection by fluorescence and laser induced fluorescence techniques.
- Materials must be biocompatible for life science applications.
- Most of the chips need surface treatment to adapt their surface properties to the application and to limit non-specific adsorption.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Interviews & Testimonials
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Automating Neuronal Cell Immunofluorescence in Microfluidic Chips Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/neuronal-cell-immunofluorescence/)
- [ Interviews & Testimonials Panel Discussion & Interviews – Microfluidics & Organ-On-Chips Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-panel-discussion-interviews-2022/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
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- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Application of microfluidic chip technology Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
## Related Products
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### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
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### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
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### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-gradient/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/drop-seq-chip/)
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Read more
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
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### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more
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## **References**
1. Aditya Aryasomayajula, Pouriya Bayat, Pouya Rezai, P. R. S. *Microfluidic Devices and Their Applications*. *Springer* vol. 50 (2017).
2. Ren, K., Zhou, J. & Wu, H. Materials for microfluidic chip fabrication. *Acc. Chem. Res.* **46**, 2396–2406 (2013).
3. Kovacs, G. T. A., Maluf, N. I. & Petersen, K. E. Bulk micromachining of silicon. *Proc. IEEE* **86**, 1536–1551 (1998).
4. Bhat, K. N. Micromachining for microelectromechanical systems. *Def. Sci. J.* **48**, 5–19 (1998).
5. De Boer, M. J. *et al.* Micromachining of buried micro channels in silicon. *J. Microelectromechanical Syst.* **9**, 94–103 (2000).
6. McDonald, J. C. & Whitesides, G. M. Poly(dimethylsiloxane) as a material for fabricating microfluidic devices. *Acc. Chem. Res.* **35**, 491–499 (2002).
7. Olkkonen, J., Lehtinen, K. & Erho, T. Flexographically printed fluidic structures in paper. *Anal. Chem.* **82**, 10246–10250 (2010).
8. M and Badre, D. Ö. L. N. Microfluidic 3D cell culture: potential application for tissue- based bioassays. *Bioanalysis* **23**, 1–7 (2012).
9. Ayuso, J. M. *et al.* Development and characterization of a microfluidic model of the tumour microenvironment. *Sci. Rep.* **6**, 1–16 (2016).
10. Zhang, X., Li, L. & Luo, C. Gel integration for microfluidic applications. *Lab Chip* **16**, 1757–1776 (2016).
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic chips
---
### [Micropipette aspiration of cells and tissues](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/micropipette-cell-and-tissue-aspiration/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## How do we measure the mechanical properties of cells
### What are the mechanical properties of cells?
The mechanical properties of the cell nucleus are increasingly recognized as critical in many biological processes. The deformability of the nucleus determines the ability of immune and cancer cells to migrate through tissues and across endothelial cell layers. The changes to the mechanical properties of the nucleus can also serve as novel biomarkers in processes such as cancer progression and stem cell differentiation \[5\].
### Current techniques employed
However, current techniques to measure the viscoelastic nuclear mechanical properties are often time-consuming, limited to probing one cell at a time or require highly specialized equipment. Furthermore, many current assays do not measure time-dependent properties, which are characteristic of viscoelastic materials \[5, 6\].
Micropipette Aspiration relies on the suction/aspiration of a cell through a micropipette by the application of precise and sensitive negative pressure from a [**pressure based-controller**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). The cell is first immobilized on the tip of a micropipette and suction is applied to draw the cell inside the tube.
### Why using the micropipette asipiration technique?
To quantify the distance traveled by the pipetted portion of a cell through the micropipette tube, the cell’s position can be tracked using a [microscope](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/). This behavior is predicted by a lumped parameter model which represents the cell as a combination of springs and dashpots (thereby modeling stiffness and viscosity, respectively) \[5\].
The deformation displayed by cells undergoing micropipette aspiration shows a linearly elastic response as a result of its stiffness, and a creep response due to its viscous behavior. This response is unique to different types of cells; for example, white blood cells measure lower stiffness than chondrocytes. This difference in cell stiffness affects the way in which cells interact with one another and the way they are affected by their immediate environment. pipette microaspiration is a versatile technique that allows stiffness to be quantified across many different cell types.
Being able to quantify the mechanical properties of cells can be a useful tool in investigating and diagnosing different pathologies. From handling delicate individual cells, along with the small forces required to manipulate them, and their small size, it is not feasible to use traditional methods of measuring material properties.
## Benefits of pipette microaspiration
- **Non-invasive:** Micropipette suction allows repetitive measurements on the same sample. Variations in cell tension of individual cells within a tissue can be monitored over time. This method is a powerful tool to trace the spatio temporal map of tensions inducing morphogenesis (Maitre et al, Nat Cell Biol, 2015).
- **Economical, easy to use and build:** Micropipette aspiration with Fluigent is compact, can fit any [microscope ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/ "microscope ")and is piloted by an intuitive software. Competitive technologies like AFM, cytoindenter and optical tweezers are expensive, necessitate specific training and may require a dedicated microscope.
- **Time saving:** Thanks to [Fluigent’s product responsiveness](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/), a given pressure is instantaneously applied on the cell’s surface (ms range). Cell surface tension can be measured in 3 to 5 minutes (Maitre et al, Nat Cell Biol, 2015)
- **No inter-operator variability:** Besides requiring highly skilled people, manual aspiration causes considerable inter-operator variability as the applied pressure cannot be exactly quantified. In contrast, Fluigent [pressure regulators](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) always deliver the ordered pressure with 0.1% precision.
- **High sensitivity and resolution:** Fluigent instruments are the only products in the market delivering small pressure increments (0.007mbar) at low pressure (0.1-10mbar). They allow investigating subcellular dynamics like cytoskeleton structural and organizational modifications that are not accessible with confocal microscopy.
## Micropipette aspiration technique application
Micropipette suction remains one of the gold standards and most commonly used tools to study nuclear mechanics and provide important information on the viscoelastic behavior of the nucleus over different time scales.
Pipette microaspiration has been used to study a wide variety of phenomena, including the mechanical properties of the nucleus, the exclusion of nucleoplasm from chromatin, and chromatin stretching \[5\].
***Image courtesy of [Jean-Léon Maitre (Institut Curie, France)](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/biology-cancer-genetics-and-epigenetics/developmental-biology-and-genetics/team-maitre/ "Jean-Léon Maitre (Institut Curie, France)")***
**Cell mechanical properties measurement:** Many biological processes are characterized by changes in cell stiffness: cells entering mitosis \[1\], tumor cells transitioning to premalignant stage \[2\], red blood cells infected with malaria \[3\].These mechanical changes occur at cell scale and require precise measurement to accurately quantify cell stiffness.
Dual pipette aspiration assay, the duplicated version of cell aspiration set up, is another handy tool to evaluate the relative contribution of cell-cell tension versus cell-medium tension at cell-cell interface by separating contacting cells (Maitre et al Sciences 2012).
**Single cell manipulation:** Micropipette aspiration allows spatial positioning of single cells or clusters of cells. Single-cell positioning is necessary for [**single-cell analysis**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/) or clonal cell line development.
**Tension heterogeneity within tissue:** Evaluating cell tension at the single cell level allows mapping the spatial map of tensions of a tissue. It is particularly performant to investigate the forces driving tissue morphogenesis or embryogenesis [**(Maitre et al, 2016, Nature)**](https://www.nature.com/articles/nature18958#citeas).
**In-vitro diagnostic:** Measuring stiffness with cellular resolution can be a powerful tool to detect abnormal behavior that is not accessible nor perceptible under a microscope. As an example, mechanical properties can predict the viability of embryos already within hours after fertilization although viable and non-viable embryos are morphologically indistinguishable at this stage \[4\].
## Micropipette aspiration package
[
### Micropipette Aspiration Package
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/micropipette-aspiration-package/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
[
### Compact Vacuum Pump
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/compact-vacuum-pump/)
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### Digital High-speed Microscope
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
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Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Assess Cell Proliferation Using Pressure as a Tool Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-as-a-tool-to-evaluate-cell-growth/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics High Throughput Single Cell Analysis Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pump Responsiveness in microfluidics Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-responsiveness/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
## References
\[1\] Théry M, Bornens M, Get round and stiff. 2008, HFSP J, 2(2):65-71.
\[2\] Tavares S et al, actin stress fiber organization promotes cell stiffening and proliferation of pre-invasive breast cancer cells. 2017, Nat Commun. 8:15237.
\[3\] Guo Q et al, Microfluidic biomechanical assay for red blood cells parasitized by Plasmodium falciparum. 2012, Lab Chip; 12(6):1143-50.
\[4\] Yanez LZ et al, human oocyte developmental potential is predicted by mechanical properties within hours after fertilization, 2016, Nat Commun. 7:10809
\[5\] Davidson, P.M. et al. (2019) “High-throughput microfluidic micropipette aspiration device to probe time-scale dependent nuclear mechanics in intact cells,” Lab on a Chip, 19(21), pp. 3652–3663. Available at: .
\[6\] González-Bermúdez, B., Guinea, G.V. and Plaza, G.R. (2019) “Advances in micropipette aspiration: Applications in cell biomechanics, models, and extended studies,” Biophysical Journal, 116(4), pp. 587–594. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpj.2019.01.004.
## Selected publications from our customers
Guevorkian K,Maître JL.Micropipette aspiration: A unique tool for exploring cell and tissue mechanics in vivo.MethodsCellBiol. 2017;139:187-201
Maître JL et al, Asymmetric division of contractile domains couples cellpositioning and fate specification, Nature. 2016 Aug 18;536(7616):344-34
Biro M, Maître JL, Dual pipette aspiration: a unique tool for studying intercellular adhesion.MethodsCellBiol. 2015;125:255-67
Porazinski S et al, YAP is essential for tissue tension to ensure vertebrate 3D body shape.Nature. 2015 May 14;521(7551):217-221
Maître JL et al, Pulsatile cell-autonomouscontractility drives compaction in the mouse embryo. Nat Cel lBiol. 2015 Jul;17(7):849-55
Maître JL et al, Adhesion functions in cell sorting by mechanically coupling the cortices of adhering cells.Science. 2012;338(6104):253-6
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [Assess Cell Proliferation Using Pressure as a Tool](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-as-a-tool-to-evaluate-cell-growth/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## Enhancing Cell Proliferation Monitoring with Pressure Controllers
### Why Measure Cell Proliferation?
Cell proliferation serves as a crucial **indicator** of **cell health** and **viability**. Monitoring the proliferation rate is essential for assessing whether cells are actively dividing and growing as expected. Variations in proliferation rates may signify potential issues such as cell death, cellular stress, or the presence of toxins.
Additionally, **insights into the kinetics of cell division**, factors influencing cell growth, and the regulation of cellular processes are essential for understanding normal development, tissue regeneration, and disease progression.
### Common Methods for Evaluating Cell Growth
Several widely used methods exist for evaluating cell proliferation:
- **Cell Counting:**
Manual counting using a hemocytometer or automated cell counters is a basic yet effective method. However, it can be time-consuming and subjective.
- **DNA Synthesis Detection:**
Since DNA replication is a fundamental event in cell multiplication, techniques that measure DNA synthesis can indirectly assess cell proliferation.
- **Flow Cytometry:**
Flow cytometry is a versatile technique involving labeling cells with fluorescent dyes like carboxyfluorescein succinimidyl ester (CFSE), which dilute as cells divide. Flow cytometry can measure DNA content using DNA-binding dyes (e.g., propidium iodide) to determine cell cycle phases.
The choice of method depends on factors such as cell type, research goals, and available resources. Researchers often combine these techniques for a comprehensive understanding of cell proliferation.
### Innovative Approach:
We propose an alternative method for real-time cell growth monitoring, coupled with precise flow rate control within a [microfluidic chip.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/) This method relies on calculating hydrodynamic resistance and necessitates the use of [pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) alongside [flow sensors](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/) to regulate the flow rate. This novel approach enhances the accuracy and efficiency of cell proliferation assessments in diverse research contexts.
## Best Method for Measuring Cell Proliferation
The method determines cell proliferation by measuring the pressure increase using a pressurebased microfluidic system coupled to a flow sensor and using the equation ∆P= R x Q. Discover the complete protocol on the [application note](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/pressure-as-a-tool-to-evaluate-cell-growth.pdf).
- **Flow-EZ**: The [Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/flow-ez/ "Flow EZ") is the most advanced flow controller for pressure-based fluid control. It can be combined with a Flow Unit to control pressure or flow rate. A range of 10 – 40 mbar was used during the experiments.
- **Flow unit M**: A [flow sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/ "flow sensor") that allows real time flow rate measurement up to 80 µL/min. By combining a Flow Unit with the Flow EZ, it is possible to switch from pressure control to flow rate control.
- **A microfluidic [cell culture chamber chip](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/ "cell culture chamber chip")**. At least 2 chips should be used for the first calibration.
- **Tubing**
- **Cell culture media**
- **Cell line**
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
## Partial results
### Determining cell proliferation within the biochip in real-time
We followed the protocol to find the correlation between cell proliferation and the pressure increase for maintaining a steady flow rate. The experiment was repeated on 5 biochips to increase statistical significance. The pressure applied to maintain a flow rate of **10 µL/min** as a function of the number of cells (estimated after injection and counted after 3 days of perfusion) is shown in the figure.
We can observe a **correlation between the pressure applied and cell number** for cells cultured for 3 days and counted afterwards. The slope from the curve was determined and lead to a linear function making it possible to estimate the number of cells, and therefore, cell growth, as a function of the applied pressure under identical conditions.
### Cell viability under steady and dynamic flow conditions
To assess the influence of flow rate on cells, cell morphology of cells cultured under dynamic and static conditions were compared (images on the right).
We observe that the **actin network is more developed under dynamic conditions** compared to static conditions. In fact, under flowing (dynamic) conditions, a low[ **shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/) is applied on cells.
This shear stress tends to elongate cells, and as consequence, **2-dimensional cell proliferation is favored**. Under static conditions, **3-dimensional cell growth is favored** as no shear is applied. Cells growing 3-dimensionally could lead to increased cellular heterogeneity as they do not have access to the same amount of nutrients or oxygen within the microfluidic chamber. Under dynamic conditions, cells are in a favorable growth environment that is a continuous and homogeneous perfusion culture with steady and low shear stress.
Know more on [**Why is it important to control shear stress in your microfluidic experiments?**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
## Conclusion
We demonstrated the use of [pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) coupled with flow sensors for **determining and estimating cell proliferation within a microfluidic chip in real-time**. The user can track, in real-time, cell proliferation by simply [**monitoring pressure increase**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/). This method allows one to **estimate cell proliferation kinetics** within a chip in an inexpensive fashion. This system shows great [**advantages** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/extended-capabilities-of-pressure-driven-flow-for-microfluidics-applications/)as it offers real time information on pressure and flow rate without requiring the preparation of additional replicates dedicated to monitoring proliferation at different time points, hence making it a strong and versatile tool.
### References
1. Panwar, J. & Roy, R. Integrated Field’s metal microelectrodes based microfluidic impedance cytometry for cell-in-droplet quantification. Microelectron. Eng. 215, 111010 (2019).
2. Zhou, Y. et al. Characterizing Deformability and Electrical Impedance of Cancer Cells in a Microfluidic Device. Anal. Chem. 90, 912–919 (2018).
3. Cahill, B. P. Optimization of an impedance sensor for droplet-based microfluidic systems. Smart Sensors, Actuators, MEMS V 8066, 80660F (2011).
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Pressure-Controlled Microfluidics in Organ-On-A-Chip Research Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-pressure-control-for-ooac/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology? Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics How to choose a microfluidic chip Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Oil in Water Emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## Introduction to Oil In Water Emulsions
### What are the O/W emulsions?
Oil in water emulsions are conventionally defined as thermodynamically unstable systems which include two immiscible liquids (generally water and oil), in which oil is distributed into the water\[[**1**](https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0213189#pone.0213189.ref001)\]. Emulsions may divide into two phases over time through creaming, coalescence, flocculation or Ostwald ripening\[[**2**](https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0213189#pone.0213189.ref002)\].
The preparation method greatly influences the stability of O/W emulsions. Common emulsification techniques have a limited ability to [control the size](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/) and attached particle layer composition of drops. Formulating drops of controlled size and surface properties is critical for most commercial and technological activities using emulsions. Many physical properties depend on drop size, including coalescence stability, viscosity, thermal and electrical conductivity \[1,2\]. Stability at rest and under flow (while pouring, pumping or spreading) **depends on the interfacial properties and composition**.
### Generate highly monodisperse emulsions with microfluidics
[**Microfluidic emulsification methods**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/) provide a **unique platform** to uncover the early stages of emulsion formation. The applied shear stresses work against the interfacial tension to elongate and rupture droplets. High [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) enhances rupturing and collisions between particles and drops. Fragmented drops recombine when they encounter each other to reduce their interfacial area.
Microfluidic emulsification offers **greater control over drop size uniformity.** Drop surfaces are tailored by dosing surface active species into the liquids. Another advantage is the **potential insights into emulsion** formation gained by directly observing drop break-up, film rupture and liquid mixing during drop coalescence in microchannels.
## Materials to Generate O/W Emulsions
### Reagents
**Droplet Phase:** Decane
**Continuous phase:** Water + 2% (wt) Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)
ReagentSupplierCatalogue numberCAS NumberWaterUltrapure 18.2 MΩ – cm–7732-18-5DecaneSigma AldrichD901124-18-5Sodium dodecyl sulfateSigma Aldrich436143151-21-3---
### Microfluidic Setup
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Digital High-speed Microscope
A microscope designed for microfluidics
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## How to produce an oil in water emulsion
An emulsion is defined as two immiscible liquids wherein droplets of one phase (the dispersed or internal phase) are encapsulated within sheets of another phase (the continuous or external phase) \[1\]. In oil in water emulsions , oil droplets are dispersed and encapsulated within the water column.
**O/W emulsions** are widely used in industrial and R&D environments to manufacture droplets (e.g., for compartmentalization applications), wax beads (e.g., carnauba or cosmetic wax), and **polymer beads** (e.g., PLGA, styrene, methacrylates, etc.). Of particular importance is the ability to **produce high-quality, monodisperse droplets** and the ability to do so **reproducibly** and at a viable production rate.
The combination of [**pressure-based flow controller units**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) and RayDrop microfluidic devices developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/) enable smooth fluid delivery, precision flow rate control, automation, and reproducibility necessary to generate high-quality oil in water emulsions.
*Figure 1* Scheme of the fluidic setup
*Figure 2 Pictures of the Fluigent equipment*
With the use of [Fluigent pressure-based flow controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) units and the [Raydrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) microfluidic device (figure 1), we have generated emulsions with **control of particle size** by adjusting the flow of the continuous phase and the dispersed phase.
## Results
Continuous phase flowrate (μl/min)Droplet phase flowrate
(μl/min)Droplet diameter
(μm)Production rate
(Hz)1005636371001067105810015731227505714455010757545015828665575377251077697251581898151583835*Figure 3 Droplet phase diagram*
*Figure 4 *Images of decane droplets in water generated using Fluigent equipment and the Raydrop microfluidic device**
## Conclusion
Fluigent[ **pressure-based flow controller units**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) and the [**Raydrop microfluidic device**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) were successfully used to generate high-quality, monodisperse droplets of decane in water. The droplet size was controlled in the **range of 63 – 83 μm** by adjusting the continuous and dispersed phase flow rates. Peak stable droplet production rate was recorded for 73 μm droplets at 1227 Hz. The production techniques developed here for oil in water emulsions can be extended to the generation of wax, or polymer beads by adding suitable post-processing steps.
## Expertises & Resources
- All
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes
- Microfluidics White Papers
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [ Microfluidics White Papers Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes Water in Oil Emulsions Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics Microfluidic Droplet Production Method Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microfluidic calculators](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/)
**Published:** January 12, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Shear Stress Calculator
[Shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) is defined as the driving force generated by the friction of a moving fluid on a surface. Cells subjected to fluid flow experience this shear stress, impacting their phenotype, morphology, and maturation. By inputting the parameters of your setup (flow rate, pressure, microfluidic chip size, etc.), our microfluidic calculator will provide the **relevant shear stress** considerations.
[Use the calculator ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
### [Microfluidic Shear stress calculator | Tutorial video](https://youtu.be/KIG-n-sKCVc)
## Pressure & Flow Rate Calculator
Fluigent has developed a flow calculator to **estimate the resistance** of most microfluidic installations. This tool enables users to determine the required pressure range and the recommended [microfluidic pump](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) by detailing their installation, including chip geometry and channel dimensions.
[Use the calculator ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Pressure predictions for lab-on-a-chip operations using a microfluidic network solver and Fluigent PX
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-predictions-for-lab-on-a-chip-operations-using-a-microfluidic-network-solver-and-fluigent-px/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
## Droplet Size Calculator
Fluigent has developed a droplet size calculator based on the geometry of [RayDrop](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/), [a droplet generator device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/). This microfluidic calculator method is based on correlations obtained from numerical modeling to help users predict droplet diameter. The estimation takes into account Raydrop’s nozzle diameter, flow rate of the continuous phase, viscosities of both phases, and interfacial tension.
[Use the calculator ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
### [How to efficiently PREDICT DROPLET SIZE and FREQUENCY | Droplet Calculator Tutorial](https://youtu.be/Ro4pJbFHp3U)
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Easy droplet generation chip
Most simple droplet generation chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/ez-drop/)
[
### Microfluidic Single Emulsion Device
RayDrop Single Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Easy-to-Use Cell Culture Chip
Be-Flow
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-flow/)
[
### Air-Liquid Interface and Co-Culture Chip
Be-Transflow
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-transflow/)
## Related Resources
- [Expertise### Addressing Air Bubble Issues in Microfluidic Systems
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/avoid-air-bubbles/)
- [version="1.0"?
Microfluidics Article Reviews### Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow Control Technologies: Comparison between peristaltic, syringe and pressure pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Flow Sensing Technologies, A Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-flow-sensing-technologies/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [Support & Tools### Pressure & Flow Rate Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/)
- [Support & Tools### Shear Stress Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Support & Tools
---
### [The Hebrew University: Encapsulation and culture in 3D hydrogels for Single cell sequencing ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/the-hebrew-university-epigenomics-ram-lab/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
“Microfluidics is a robust and cost-effective technology for single cell and single clone processing”
“Fluigent made microfluidics parallelization a feasible task”
## CloneSeq: A highly sensitive single-cell analysis platform for the comprehensive characterization of cells from 3D culture
### Introduction
**Single-cell studies** have revealed that there is considerable **cell-to-cell variation** within tumors of different cancer types and during embryonic stem cell (ESC) differentiation 1–4. However, in many cases, single cell **experimental data is still difficult to interpret** as a high degree of randomness persists.
To overcome this limitation, Bavli et al. developed a complementary single cell sequencing technology: **CloneSeq**. This method combines **clonal expansion** inside three-dimensional (3D) hydrogel spheres and droplet-based **RNA sequencing** (RNA-seq)5. The authors revealed the presence of **novel cancer-specific subpopulations**, including cancer stem-like cells, which are not identified using standard RNA sequencing assays.
****Barcode formation, cell encapsulation in hydrogels, and single cell sequencing** (including InDrops and Drop-seq) were all performed using [**Fluigent Flow-EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/) **pressure-based flow controllers, controlled with Fluigent** [**OxyGEN software**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) with pressures ranging **from 69 mbar to 2 bar.****
### Step 1 – Single-cell encapsulation in hydrogels for 3D cell culture system
The first step of the CloneSeq method consists of **capturing single cells inside a biodegradable hydrogel** for subsequent clonal expansion. **All flow rates are finely controlled using Fluigent** [**Flow EZ**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)**s combined with our** [**Flow Units**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/) **and OxyGEN** [**software**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/). Flow rates used range from 8 to 34 µL/min depending on the solution. About 700 hydrogel spheres per second are generated under these parameters5.
The cured gels are collected into a tube and immersed in culture medium, permitting the proliferation of the encapsulated cells and clone formation (figure 2).
*Figure 1 Scheme of the microfluidic setup for single cell encapsulation in hydrogels*
**Figure 2 Cell encapsulation and clone formation a Clone encapsulation scale bar 50µm b Scheme representing the hydrogel droplet supporting cell proliferation and clone formation c Bright field and fluorescence microscopy images showing the formation of 3D clones of encapsulated PC9 cells Scale bars 30 µm**
### Step2 – CloneSeq: profiling of clones using modified InDrops and Drop-Seq protocols
For the **RNA profiling of clones**, the authors designed a microfluidic device to capture clones in droplets and barcode their mRNAs using a custom **InDrops protocol**5. Figure 3 shows a scheme of this InDrop-based microfluidic configuration. Once again, **flow rates are finely controlled using** [**Fluigent Flow EZs** ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)**combined with our Flow Units and** OxyGEN.
Scheme of the microfluidic setup for the InDrops protocol
*Zoom in of the encapsulation junction showing a single clone co encapsulated with a barcoded bead immersed in lysis buffer*
## Partial results
To study the effect that clonal expansion within the hydrogel spheres has on the homogeneity of cell states within the clones with droplet-based single cell sequencing, the authors compared the inter-clone correlations of small (n<15 cells) and large (n≥15 cells) clones and of pseudo-clones. They showed for human PC9 cells that cells sharing a clonal origin are more similar to each other compared to random cells, suggesting that clones are homogeneous5.
## Cleaning protocol
After the experiments, the authors perform an automated cleaning protocol using the **Fluigent** [**M-Switch**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/m-switch/), a **microfluidic valve** allowing **for the injection of up to 10 fluids** in a sequential manner.
## Conclusion
With this case study, the authors demonstrated the use of Fluigent pressure-driven flow controllers along with a dedicated software to provide excellent flow control for cutting-edge microfluidic applications including single-cell encapsulation and culture within 3D hydrogels droplets, and for InDrops protocols followed by RNA sequencing.
## Related Products
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Rotary multi-port microfluidic valve for industry
OEM microfluidic electric rotary valve with multi-port (Fluigent M-X)
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/fluigent-mx/)
[
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Microfluidic Software control
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Adaptor for mixed pressure range modules
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FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
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OxyGEN – The new way to get full control of your microfluidic system and automate your lab setup.
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## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### High Throughput Single Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
### References
1. *Li, H. et al. Reference component analysis of single-cell transcriptomes elucidates cellular heterogeneity in human colorectal tumors. Nat. Genet. **49**, 708–718 (2017).*
2. *Dalerba, P. et al. Single-cell dissection of transcriptional heterogeneity in human colon tumors. Nat. Biotechnol. **29**, 1120–1127 (2011).*
3. *Kim, K. T. et al. Single-cell mRNA sequencing identifies subclonal heterogeneity in anti-cancer drug responses of lung adenocarcinoma cells. Genome Biol. **16**, 1–15 (2015).*
4. *Tirosh, I. et al. Dissecting the multicellular ecosystem of metastatic melanoma by single-cell RNA-seq. Science (80-. ). **352**, 189–196 (2016).*
5. *Bavli, D. et al. CloneSeq: A highly sensitive analysis platform for the characterization of 3D-cultured single-cell-derived clones. Dev. Cell (2021).*
### Oren Lab website & other research articles
[https://www.bio.huji.ac.il/en/departments\_biological\_chemistry\_en](https://www.bio.huji.ac.il/en/departments_biological_chemistry_en)
[*CloneSeq: A highly sensitive analysis platform for the characterization of 3D-cultured single-cell-derived clones*](https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S1534-5807(21)00395-6)
[*Esrrb is a cell cycle dependent priming factor balancing between pluripotency and differentiation*](https://www.biorxiv.org/content/10.1101/2020.08.03.234112v1)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Giant Unilamellar Vesicles (GUVs) Production using Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/giant-unilamellar-vesicles-production/)
**Published:** November 22, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
This review was written in collaboration with Secoya Technologies
## What are Giant Unilamellar Vesicles (GUVs)?
A liposome is a small artificial vesicle having a spherical shape that is formed by at least one lipid bilayer (which consists of two layers of lipid molecules. Its hydrophilic heads face outward, while the hydrophobic tails face inward, creating a flexible barrier that separates the interior from the exterior environment).1,2
Liposomes have long been used in biomedical applications as carriers of molecules in the human or animal body. For example, liposomes formed by a lipid bilayer encapsulating an aqueous core **can transport a lipophilic drug in the lipid bilayer,** while **hydrophilic molecules can be transported in the aqueous core** *(figure 1)*.3
More recently, interest has emerged in liposomes formed by a single lipid bilayer (Unilamellar Vesicles, UV), because they present a membrane structure and biochemical properties close to those of the cell. They can therefore be used to **study the properties of membrane and transmembrane transport** in the cell, as they represent a simpler model compared to the complexity of biological cell membranes.4
Microsized unilamellar vesicles or GUV for Giant Unilamellar Vesicles, are of particular interest because their **size, similar to biological cells,** gives them a clear advantage for direct microscope visualization of phenomena occurring at a single membrane level, such as membrane dynamics and transport.4
Figure 1 Depending on its affinity for water or lipid the drug can be encapsulated either inside the aqueous core or inside the lipid bilayer3
## Traditional GUV Production Methods
While methods for producing nanometer-sized liposomes are well established in the field of healthcare as drug vectors, their use as engineered cells has been hampered by the lack of suitable methods for forming micrometer-sized vesicles.
Currently, **the most common bulk methods for producing GUVs include gentle hydration, gel-assisted formation, and electroforming**.5,6,7 However, these methods are **slow, unreliable, and offer little control over the unilamellarity, size, and monodispersity** of the vesicles. In addition, they do not allow high, uniform encapsulation of large and charged biomolecules. Another bulk method, known as the droplet transfer method, overcomes some of these drawbacks, while still presenting a severe limitation in terms of size control.
### A. Gentle Hydration
In the conventional approach to **forming Giant Unilamellar Vesicles**, lipid films are created by dissolving lipids in chloroform at a concentration of approximately 1 mM inside a glass container.
The films are then dried with argon gas. Subsequent hydration using pure water or a buffer solution results in **GUV formation** after an incubation period at 25°C, typically lasting from a few hours to several days.
However, this method has drawbacks, including its slow pace due to extended incubation times, inefficiency resulting from **poorly controlled lipid** **film swelling,** and a **broad size distribution** of vesicles (ranging from a few micrometers to over 100 μm) with a lack of unilamellarity. Additionally, the formation of microsized unilamellar vesicles is limited to low ionic concentrations (up to 10 mM NaCl)3, 8, 9).
To address these challenges and enhance the approach, i**ncorporating glass beads** as a solid support for lipid coating can significantly improve the surface area for efficient lipid swelling and vesicle formation. This modification has been applied to various lipids, including both single-component lipids and mixed lipid systems.
While the method demonstrates **good encapsulation efficiency** under physiological lipid and buffer conditions, resulting vesicles remain **polydisperse**, and there is a **lack of control** over leaflet asymmetry (referring to the difference between the lipid composition and/or physical properties of the inner and outer layers of the lipid bilayer)10, 11.
Figure 2 Gentle hydration Hydration of lipid film coated on glass surfaces such as glass slides or glass beads10
### B. Electroformation
The **Electroformation of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles** method offers a solution to the sluggish swelling times observed in gentle hydration techniques. In this process, **an alternating electric field is applied to a dry lipid film within a formation chamber containing two platinum electrodes,** inducing the formation of surface-attached vesicles through hydration.
Alternatively, the lipid film can be deposited on glass slides coated with a conductive material, such as indium tin oxide, and separated by a spacer. This modification enables parallelization and high-throughput production of giant vesicles, making it a cost-effective approach.
Notably, the addition of an electrolyte in water, as opposed to water alone, can further expedite the electroformation process. However, it is crucial to avoid excessive concentrations of charged lipids in the mixture, as they may interfere with GUV production.
Despite its advantages, including the preparation of unilamellar vesicles using physiological lipids and buffers within specific parameters, **electroformation faces challenges in controlling leaflet asymmetry and achieving optimal encapsulation efficiency**10, 12, 13, 14.
Figure 3 Electroformation Lipid film coated on a conducting surface and hydrated in the presence of an electric field where vesicle formation occurs10
### C. Gel-assisted hydration
Gel-assisted hydration allows the production of GUVs at physiological ionic strength. **A hydrogel-forming polymer is dried to deposit a lipid film on a glass surface.** Then, **the film and the hydrogel are hydrated with a buffer solution so that giant unilamellar vesicles are formed at the gel/water interface.** The size of the vesicles produced could be raised by increasing the buffer ionic strength.
This method is **faster** than gentle hydration and electroformation and it can be **used at physiological ionic strength** as well as for different lipid compositions. Also, **the risk of degrading the lipids faced by electroformation does not arise**. By employing the gel-assisted hydration method, it is possible to create GUVs with specific lipid composition and buffer, allowing **a degree of control over size and biomolecule encapsulation.**
Figure 4 Gel assisted formation Hydration carried out on lipid coated porous gelfiber surfaces 10
### D. Droplet transfer method
The **droplet transfer method consists** of **introducing an aqueous buffer solution** (forming the inner solution of giant vesicles) **into an organic solution containing lipids.** A water-in-oil (w/o) emulsion is formed by pipetting or vortexing. The emulsion is then placed in a microtube containing an aqueous buffer solution (forming the outer phase of the vesicles) and the lipids solution which will form the second lipid bilayer.
These two phases are immiscible and thus form two heterogeneous layers. By gravity, the w/o emulsions are transferred to the interface between the lipid and buffer solutions, thus forming the outer solution of the giant vesicles.
Consequently, the giant vesicles with the lipid bilayer are formed from the w/o emulsions. Compared to the gentle hydration method, this technique gives **more monodispersed, unilamellar, and well-encapsulated giant vesicles** but with oil remnants in the membrane, which can alter properties like viscosity. Also, this process allows only **low incorporation** of cholesterol due to its hydrophobic nature. The formation and stability of droplets plays a crucial role in the creation of giant unilamellar vesicles using this approach.
Therefore, controlling the size of these droplets allows for GUV size regulation, which is not attainable through the bulk water-in-oil (w/o) methods (pipetting/vortexing).17,18,19
Figure 5 Droplet transfer method Water droplets in lipid saturated oil stabilized by lipid molecules destined for the inner interface fall under their own weight in an intermediate phase of lipid saturated oil heavier than the emulsion phase Lipids form a monolayer at the oilwater interface and the bottom aqueous phase receives the formed vesicle 5
## How does microfluidics enhance the GUV production process?
Microfluidics, through **water-in-oil-in-water (W/O/W) double emulsions** with lipids in the oil phase, emerged as a promising tool for GUV production compared to the traditional bulk methods and their drawbacks.
Typically, the production of giant unilamellar vesicles in microfluidics is a two-step process, as depicted in figure 6.
In the first step, an aqueous solution is pinched by an organic phase containing dissolved lipids. This results in the **formation of water-in-oil (W/O) single emulsion droplets** with a monolayer of lipids assembled at the interface. The single emulsion is then sheared into droplets by a second aqueous solution to form W/O/W double emulsions. Lipids can be present in the outer aqueous solution in the form of small vesicles and will form the second layer at the interface. The w/o/w method produces vesicles at **high throughput,** demonstrating **effective size control** and **high encapsulation efficiency**.
However, the presence of residual oil in the bilayer is a recurring problem when using these processes for vesicle production.20
Figure 6 Schematic of vesicle production line using two successive flow focusing junctions for double emulsion generation A WO droplet is formed at the first hydrophobically coated junction while a double emulsion WOW is formed at the second hydrophilic coated junction 20
Figure 7 Octanol separation from the formed GUV where the octanol is accumulated in front of the GUV in the direction of the flow before gradually being detached 8
Another option is to use a partially water-miscible oil, such as octanol, as the shell phase.8When [octanol-containing lipids](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/) are extracted in water, lipids assemble along both interfaces to form giant unilamellar vesicles *(figure 7)*.
This technique, first described by Deshpande *et al*. (2016), consists of forming double emulsion droplets from an aqueous core phase and an ultra-thin organic shell phase (lipid dissolved in 1-octanol) flowing through the outer aqueous phase (continuous phase). The droplets formed present an octanol pocket on one side of the droplet, in the direction of the flow. After a few minutes, oil-free vesicles are obtained after full detachment of the octanol pocket due to the dewetting. Next, the created vesicles and octanol droplets can be separated thanks to their density difference.
This microfluidic technique allows **efficient encapsulation of biomolecules** with **precise size control of the vesicles.** In addition, it presents the opportunity to **automate the process** and create a **more complex arrangement of leaflets** while enhancing control over the number and composition of each leaflet.
However, a question remains regarding the biomimetic properties of the lipid vesicles due to the usage of surfactants and additives in both the aqueous phases that can affect the biophysical membrane properties, hampering their use as cell mimics.9,10
Yandrapalli *et al.* succeeded in generating giant unilamellar vesicles without the use of additives or surfactants by using a well-designed PDMS-on-glass chip with a double flow focusing junction.21 This design enabled the generation of vesicles in various sizes, ranging from approximately 10 to 130 μm, using either neutral or charged lipids and under physiological buffer conditions.
Characterization tests confirmed the purity, functionality, and stability of these vesicle membranes through lipid diffusion, protein incorporation, and leakage assays.
Furthermore, their potential as artificial cells was demonstrated by increasing their complexity, such as encapsulating plasmids, smaller liposomes, mammalian cells, and microspheres.10,21
Overall, the use of microfluidics to produce microsized unilamellar vesicles overcomes most of the limitations encountered in batch processes. It allows a high level of control over size and unilamellarity, as well as a high production rate and high encapsulation efficiency.
Figure 8 Microfluidic device design presented by Yandrapalli et al and an example of confocal fluorescence image of GUVs 21
## GUV Applications
The applications of giant vesicles can be categorized into two main areas: **understanding membrane biophysical processes** and the **construction of synthetic cells.**
In the field of membrane biophysics, giant vesicles have been used to study phenomena such as membrane phase separation, fluid/gel-like domains, and the effects of proteins and specific lipids on membrane properties. These studies have led to insights into various biological processes, including fission, fusion, and shape changes in cells.
Additionally, researchers have explored the interaction of antimicrobial peptides and the transport properties of membrane proteins in giant vesicles.10,22,23,24
Figure 9 Application of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles10
In the context of building synthetic cells, giant vesicles have served as an initial component. They have been used to **mimic cellular features** such as **compartmentalization, communication, motility, growth, and reproduction.** This includes the creation of vesicle-in-vesicle structures resembling cell organelles and the development of systems that enable enzymatic reactions and regulated transcription.
Controlled growth, budding, and division of giant vesicles have been achieved through various external and internal stimuli.
Furthermore, synthetic cells constructed from giant vesicles have been engineered to communicate with natural cells and to perform functions such as replication of genetic material, self-reproduction, and self-organizing protein expression.10,25,26
In summary, creating GUVs for artificial cells involves **two key goals:** developing a complex and biologically analogous membrane while achieving a multicomponent lumen. These requirements ensure that **GUVs accurately mimic the properties and functions of natural cells**, making them suitable containers for artificial cells. Therefore, the fabrication method of giant unilamellar vesicles remains crucial.27
Giant vesicles have also found applications in [drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/), including non-intravenous routes. The development of microfluidic-based high-throughput techniques has expanded the possibilities for encapsulating larger therapeutic molecules like DNA, RNA, and enzymes, making them suitable for engineering complex cargo delivery systems responsive to external triggers.28,29
## Conclusion and perspective
In the past decade, there has been significant progress in the development of novel techniques for preparing giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). These advances are essential for **understanding membrane biophysical processes and constructing synthetic cells**. Various GUV production methods have their own advantages and drawbacks, with some providing **better control over factors** like lipid composition physiological conditions, leaflet arrangement, oil-free membranes, lamellarity, and encapsulation efficiency.
Film-hydration techniques, although easy to use, have lower encapsulation efficiency, making them less suitable for bottom-up biology applications. Other methods like [water-oil emulsion](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/) and vesicles from lipid bilayer techniques **offer better control over leaflet arrangement and biomolecule encapsulation**. The use of microfluidic modules with emulsion techniques has allowed for **precise control over GUV size and composition.**
The long-term goal is to create hierarchical structures resembling multi-cellular organisms using GUVs, with applications in [drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/solid-lipid-nanoparticles/) and proto-tissue architectures. The ongoing development of high-yield preparation techniques will create new possibilities in GUV applications.
Properties of Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUV)Preparation Methods**Dispersity****Lamellarity****Leaflet Asymmetry****Oil content****Physiological lipid
and buffer****Encapsulation**Gentle HydrationPolydisperseMutlilamellarNoNoYesModerateGel-assisted hydrationPolydisperseUnilamellarNoNoYesModerateElectroformationPolydisperseUnilamellarNoNoYesModerateDroplet transfer formation (bulk)PolydisperseUnilamellarYesYesNoEfficientMicrofluidics: double emulsion techniqueHighly monodisperseUnilamellarNoYesYesEfficient
*Table 1: Summary of selected preparation methods of GUVs. Adapted from \[10\] and \[27\]*
*Learn more about GUV production techniques and their application* [*in this paper*](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0001868623001021?via%3Dihub) *review from the* [*HARSHA BAJAJ LAB*](https://www.harshabajajlab.com/) *(CSIR- National Institute for Interdisciplinary Science and Technology, India).*
## Discover the Raydrop and its platform for double emulsions
Double emulsion microfluidic devices, although promising to produce Giant Unilamellar Vesicles, can be time-consuming to set up and, in the case of PDMS-based microfluidics require access to soft-lithography facilities. While laboratory-made glass capillary droplet generators can bypass the need for soft-lithography, this method involves relatively expensive and difficult-to-master capillary preparation technology.
In this context, the [Raydrop developed by Secoya Technologies](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) is an ideal device for the non-expert in microfluidics who wants to produce reproducible double emulsion quickly and easily.
The Raydrop relies on the use of couples of capillaries perfectly aligned in a metallic reservoir.
The first capillary is terminated with a 3D-printed nozzle and injects the droplet phases (core and shell) into the junction.
The second one, the collection capillary, is the only output of the system, so it collects the double emulsion carried by the continuous phase filling the reservoir under pressure.
The droplets are produced by the controlled squeezing of the core and shell phases by the continuous phase at the entrance of the collection capillary.
Thanks to the 3D axisymmetric geometry, the shell and core phases are never in contact with the wall of the device which **prevents the need for any surface treatment** to generate w/o/w and o/w/o double emulsion.
Figure 10 Raydrop for the production of core shell double emulsion
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
The RayDrop is made of three metallic parts **fully removable**: two inserts on each side supporting capillaries and a central box with two glass windows for easy observation. The device is connected to fluid supplies and collection tubing by means of standard microfluidic tubing and nuts.
To make the Raydrop as easy to use as possible and minimize the microfluidics learning curve, Secoya, and Fluigent have developed a [complex emulsion platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/) that includes all the equipment needed to operate the Raydrop: Fluigent pressure-based pumps and flow-meter, valves, filters, and a visualization module. Thanks to this platform, a non-expert user can [master double emulsion production](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-generation/) within a day and focus on what really matters for his or her research.
## Related products
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### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
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### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/cell-encapsulation-platform/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
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### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
## Related resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### University of Cambridge: Microfluidic GUV production and testing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/university-of-cambridge-giant-unilamellar-vesicle-production-and-testing/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Liposome Nanoparticle Synthesis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
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Microfluidics Article Reviews### Microfluidic technology for engineered nanoparticles in nanomedicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/microfluidics-technology-for-the-design-and-formulation-of-nanoparticles/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
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Microfluidics Article Reviews### A mRNA encapsulation platform integrating Fluigent’s FlowEZ
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mrna-encapsulation-platform/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
## References
1. Bangham AD, Horne RW. Negative staining of phospholipids and their structura lmodification by surface-active agents as observed in the electron microscope. *J Mol Biol* **1964**;8. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0022-2836(64)80115-7. 660-IN10.
2. Bangham AD, Standish MM, Watkins JC. Diffusion of univalent ions across thelamellae of swollen phospholipids. *J Mol Biol* **1965**;13:238–52. 10.1016/S0022-2836(65)80093-6.
3. Laouini, A.; Jaafar-Maalej, C.; Limayem-Blouza, I.; Sfar, S.; Charcosset, C.; Fessi, H. Preparation, Characterization and Applications of Liposomes: State of the Art. *j coll sci biotechnol* **2012**, 1 (2), 147–168. .
4. Weinberger, A.; Tsai, F.-C.; Koenderink, G. H.; Schmidt, T. F.; Itri, R.; Meier, W.; Schmatko, T.; Schröder, A.; Marques, C. Gel-Assisted Formation of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles. *Biophysical Journal* **2013**, *105* (1), 154–164. .
5. Reeves, J. P.; Dowben, R. M. Formation and Properties of Thin-Walled Phospholipid Vesicles. *J. Cell. Physiol.* **1969**, *73* (1), 49–60. .
6. Horger KS, Estes DJ, Capone R, Mayer M. Films of agarose enable rapid formation of giant liposomes in solutions of physiologic ionic strength**.** *J Am Chem Soc*, **2009**; 131:1810–9. .
7. Witkowska, A.; Jablonski, L.; Jahn, R. A Convenient Protocol for Generating Giant Unilamellar Vesicles Containing SNARE Proteins Using Electroformation. *Sci Rep* **2018**, 8 (1), 9422. .
8. Deshpande, S.; Caspi, Y.; Meijering, A. E. C.; Dekker, C. Octanol-Assisted Liposome Assembly on Chip. *Nat Commun* **2016**, *7* (1), 10447.
9. Teh, S.-Y.; Khnouf, R.; Fan, H.; Lee, A. P. Stable, Biocompatible Lipid Vesicle Generation by Solvent Extraction-Based Droplet Microfluidics. *Biomicrofluidics* **2011**, *5* (4), 044113. .
10. Nair, K. S.; Bajaj, H. Advances in Giant Unilamellar Vesicle Preparation Techniques and Applications. *Advances in Colloid and Interface Science*, **2023**, 318, 102935. .
11. Nourian Z, Roelofsen W, Danelon C. Triggered gene expression in fed-vesicle microreactors with a multifunctional membrane. *Angew Chem Int Ed* **2012**;51: 3114–8. .
12. Oropeza-Guzman E, Ri´os-Ramírez M, Ruiz-Su´arez JC. Leveraging the coffee ring effect for a defect-free electroformation of giant unilamellar vesicles. *Langmuir* **2019**;35:16528–35. .
13. Zhu C, Li Q, Dong M, Han X. Giant unilamellar vesicle microarrays for cell function study. *Anal Chem* **2018**;90:14363–7. . analchem.8b03825
14. Kang YJ, Wostein HS, Majd S, Kang YJ, Wostein HS, Majd S. A simple andversatile method for the formation of arrays of giant vesicles with controlled size and composition. *Adv Mater* **2013**; 25:6834–8. ADMA.201303290
15. Mora NL, Hansen JS, Gao Y, Ronald AA, Kieltyka R, Malmstadt N, et al. Preparation of size tunable giant vesicles from cross-linked dextran(ethylene glycol) hydrogels. *Chem Commun* **2014**; 50:1953–5.
16. Kresse KM, Xu M, Pazzi J, García-Ojeda M, Subramaniam AB. Novel application of cellulose paper as a platform for the macromolecular self-assembly ofbiomimetic giant liposomes. *ACS Appl Mater Interfaces* **2016**; 8:32102–7. .
17. Pautot, S.; Frisken, B. J.; Weitz, D. A. Engineering Asymmetric Vesicles. *Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences* **2003**, 100 (19), 10718–10721. .
18. Elani Y, Purushothaman S, Booth PJ, Seddon JM, Brooks NJ, Law RV, et al. Measurements of the effect of membrane asymmetry on the mechanical properties of lipid bilayers. *Chem Commun* **2015**;51:6976–9. .
19. Ip T, Li Q, Brooks N, Elani Y. Manufacture of multilayered artificial cell membranes through sequential bilayer deposition on emulsion templates. *ChemBioChem* **2021**;22:2275–81. .
20. Karamdad, K.; Law, R. V.; Seddon, J. M.; Brooks, N. J.; Ces, O. Preparation and Mechanical Characterisation of Giant Unilamellar Vesicles by a Microfluidic Method. *Lab Chip* **2014**, 15 (2), 557–562.
21. Yandrapalli, N.; Petit, J.; Bäumchen, O.; Robinson, T. Surfactant-Free Production of Biomimetic Giant Unilamellar Vesicles Using PDMS-Based Microfluidics. *Commun Chem* **2021**, 4 (1), 1–10. .
22. Ramamurthi KS, Lecuyer S, Stone HA, Losick R. Geometric cue for protein localization in a bacterium. *Science* **2009**;323:1354. .
23. Litschel T, Ramm B, Maas R, Heymann M, Schwille P. Beating vesicles: encapsulated protein oscillations cause dynamic membrane deformations. *Angew Chem Int Ed* **2018**;57:16286–90. .
24. Ganzinger KA, Merino-Salom´on A, García-Soriano DA, Butterfield AN, Litschel T, Siedler F, et al. FtsZ reorganisation facilitates deformation of giant vesicles in microfluidic traps. *Angew Chem Int Ed***2020**. https://doi.org/10.1002/anie.202001928. anie.202001928.
**Catégories de ressource:** Droplet & Particle Generation
---
### [Water in Oil Emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-oil-emulsions/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
Developed and manufactured by [Secoya](https://secoya-tech.com/)
[](https://secoya-tech.com)
## Introduction
### What are W/O emulsions?
Emulsions are colloidal systems composed of two liquid phases—oil and water—where one is dispersed into the other. Water-in-oil (W/O) emulsions involve the dispersion of an aqueous phase, formed into small droplets, within a continuous oil phase. Despite the natural immiscibility of oil and water, proper mixing and the use of stabilizing agents facilitate the creation of oil-in-water emulsions.
The specific structure of W/O emulsions makes them suitable for delivering hydrophilic compounds, offering various functions such as antimicrobial and antioxidant activities. The effectiveness of this system is heightened by the presence of small dispersed oil droplets, enhancing the bioavailability of pharmaceutical products and extending the shelf life of food and beverages. With applications in [cosmetic](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/cosmetics/), [biological](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/), [pharmaceutical](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/), [agricultural, and food industries](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/), water-in-oil emulsions hold significant potential.
### What are the advantages of this type of emulsions?
In cell biology, compartmentalization of biological agents in discrete aqueous droplets dispersed in an oil phase is a popular alternative to the microwell strategy. Water-in-oil emulsion (W/O) has an aqueous volume from femtoliter to nanoliter, each representing an isolated micro-reactor or micro-incubator. The maximized surface-to-volume ratio of the micro-droplets enables highly efficient mass and heat transfers between the internal and external phases, resulting in precise and rapid perturbation of the microenvironment in the droplet.
### Development of water in oil emulsions as delivery vehicles
W/O emulsions produced with bulk emulsion techniques are not uniform in size. Another limitation of bulk emulsion droplets is that multistep processing of droplets is difficult, although some strategies for reagent delivery such as nanodroplet fusion, uncaging of substrates, and adding of hydrophobic substrates through the oil phase are possible. This is why microfluidic devices were created, where up to 10,000 highly monodisperse aqueous droplets per second generate in a continuous oil phase. Biocompatible [surfactant oil](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/surfactant/) formulations have been developed to prevent droplet coalescence, allow oxygen diffusion, and prevent molecules leaking out into the oil phase. Water in oil emulsions can be divided, fused, incubated, analysed, sorted and broken up. Integration of these steps with control over timing can potentially create a system for biological experimentation with a level of control akin to experiments on the macroscopic scale.
The choice of microfluidics for droplet ‘management’ also allows access to typical advantageous engineering features of this format, e.g. the potential for automatisation, the low cost of microfluidic devices and improved heat.
### What’s the Difference between Oil in Water and Water in Oil Emulsions?
In microfluidics, the distinction between water-in-oil (W/O) and [oil-in-water](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/) (O/W) emulsions pertains to the arrangement of fluid phases within a microscale system. O/W emulsions involve the dispersion of oil droplets within a continuous water phase, making them suitable for encapsulating and transporting hydrophobic substances in an aqueous environment. They are commonly utilized for controlled drug release, chemical reactions in water, or the creation of microreactors. On the other hand, W/O emulsions comprise water droplets dispersed within a continuous oil phase, enabling the encapsulation and transport of hydrophilic substances in an oil medium. W/O emulsions find applications in microfluidic systems for bioassays, cellular studies, and chemical reactions that necessitate a non-aqueous environment. The choice between O/W and W/O emulsions in microfluidics depends on the specific experimental requirements, including the nature of the substances involved and the desired reaction conditions.
## Material et method to generate water in oil emulsions
### Reagents
**Droplet Phase:** Water (Mili Q)
**Continuous phase:** Decane + 2% (wt) SPAN 80
ReagentSupplierCatalogue numberCAS NumberWaterUltrapure 18.2 MΩ – cm–7732-18-5DecaneSigma AldrichD901124-18-5SPAN 80Sigma Aldrich8.401231338-43-8---
### Microfluidic Setup for W/O emulsions
The microfluidic setup was composed of:
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
RayDrop Double Emulsion
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
[
### Digital High-speed Microscope
A microscope designed for microfluidics
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/accessories/digital-high-speed-camera/)
## How to make water-in-oil emulsions
### Protocols steps
*Figure 1 Scheme of the fluidic setup*
*Figure 2 Pictures of the Fluigent equipment*
With the use of [Fluigent pressure-based flow controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) units and the [Raydrop microfluidic device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) (figure 1), we have generated water in oil emulsions with control of particle size by adjusting the flow of the continuous phase and the dispersed phase.
## Results
From these results, we can conclude that it is possible to influence droplet diameter as well as production rate. Indeed, by modulating the flowrate of the continuous phase and/or the droplet phase, droplet production characteristics vary. Figure 3, for example, shows the water in oil emulsions characteristics obtained for different flow rates of continuous phase (Q Decane + 2% Span 80) and droplet phase (water).
Continuous phase flowrate
(μl/min)Droplet phase flowrate
(μl/min)Droplet diameter
(μm)Production rate
(Hz)100571445100107575410015877255058525950109142250159261325589225251093396251594575151594575*Figure 3 Droplet phase diagram*
*Figure 4 illustrates microscopic observation of the droplets produced with Fluigents and Secoyas equipments*
## Conclusion
[Fluigent pressure based flow controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-single-emulsion/) units and Raydrop microfluidic devices were successfully used to generate high-quality, monodisperse droplets of water in hydrocarbon oil. The droplet size was controlled in the range of 75 – 94 μm by adjusting the continuous and dispersed phase flowrates. The peak stable droplet production rate was recorded for 75 μm droplets at 754 Hz. The water in oil emulsions production techniques developed here can be extended to the generation of hydrogel, protein, or polymer beads by adding appropriate post-processing steps.
## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Generating a water emulsion in an oil solution using a droplet generator chip
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/production-of-water-in-oil-emulsions-using-a-droplet-generator-chip/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Oil in Water Emulsions
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/oil-in-water-emulsions/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Water in Fluorocarbon Oil Emulsions
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/water-in-fluorocarbon-oil-emulsions/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [High Throughput Single Cell Analysis](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/high-throughput-single-cell-analysis/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What is Single Cell Analysis?
Most cellular research from fundamental cell biology and microbiology to applications in biotechnology is performed using **cell populations** with high cell numbers. This is convenient, as a huge variety of experimental techniques exist to **analyze cell behavior.** However, cell population data only covers information of an imaginary average cell (i.e. the average of the microbial culture), and not the mechanistic information of one cell. (1)
### The Significance of Single-Cell Analysis:
Recent research provides substantial evidence that the heterogeneity of individual cells within genetically identical populations can have a profound impact on their survival.
Methods that use average responses from a population often mask the difference from individual cells. To fully understand cell-to-cell variability, **a complete analysis of an individual cell, from its live state to cell lysates,** is essential (1,2).
### Distinguishing Bulk vs. Single-Cell Approaches:
To understand the distinction between the bulk and the single-cell approaches, imagine you have four squares: each of them is colored with a different shade of grey (figure 1). With the single-cell approach, you will see the squares as they are, with their actual colors, whereas with the more classic approach you will see four identical grey squares, hiding the color differences between each square.
Figure 1 Illustration of the difference between the bulk approach left and the single cell approach right
### Unveiling the Secrets of Single Cell Properties and Analysis Technologies
Within a population, the unique properties of single cells can be quantified using various cutting-edge technologies like **flow cytometry** and **Elispot**. These techniques enable the exploration of cell-to-cell variations, unveiling the heterogeneity within the population.
However, it’s essential to recognize that this analysis **captures only a snapshot**, offering insights into a cell’s state at a specific moment. It doesn’t provide a historical perspective or track a cell’s temporal development.
Moreover, in cases where the analysis is single-cell, the bioassay itself is bulk, with cells interacting with one another, potentially leading to changes in individual responses to stimuli. A cell can initiate its response upon detecting an activation signal from another cell.
### Advancements and the Pursuit of Spatiotemporal High-Throughput Analysis:
Beyond these conventional endpoint technologies, the field is experiencing rapid developments with the ultimate goal of **achieving spatiotemporal high-throughput single cell analysis**, enabling a mechanistic understanding of cellular functions. The enthusiasm in this field is evident in the exponential growth of single cell studies and [conferences](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-lectures-interviews/) in recent years.
This progress is driven by **technical advancements** in microfluidic chip manufacturing and analytical methods, as well as the **increasing demand from biologists** (3).
### Key Challenges and the Role of Microfluidics and Lab-on-a-Chip Technology:
The sensitive detection of multiple cellular components and high-throughput analysis of individual cells pose significant challenges in achieving this goal. In this context, **microfluidics and lab-on-a-chip technology** have emerged as the **most promising approaches** to address these challenges. These innovative technologies hold the potential to **unlock new insights** **into single cell properties** and their roles within populations.
## Single‐Cell Analysis Using Droplet Microfluidics
Recent analysis of healthy and diseased tissue homogeneous at the macroscopic scale revealed striking heterogeneities at cellular levels. This variability is particularly well illustrated in polyclonal tumors which constantly undergo mutations.
In this respect, **single cell analysis is necessary to fully capture the complexity** **of such tissue**. However, working at cellular scale equally exposes many variations in gene expression: from specific biomarkers to insignificant delays in gene expression. High throughput analysis is then needed to **multiply the number of profiled cells** and discriminate relevant biomarkers from intrinsic population noise.
[Droplet microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/ "Droplet microfluidics") is particularly well suited and extensively used for high throughput single cell analysis: individual cells are isolated and confined at high speed in pico-volumes to analyze biological processes at the cellular level, streamlining multiple procedures on a single chip, with scope for parallelization.
Recently developed droplet microfluidics has also emerged as a new forerunner for [**single-cell encapsulation** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/) and analysis with massive parallelization. High throughput screening of rare cells to a drug library has been achieved, providing additional information on cell heterogeneity response. The use of microdroplet confinement has enabled new insights into the nature of quorum sensing, suggesting it is a “cell-autonomous mechanism for diffusion or efficiency sensing”.
## Why is droplet microfluidics well-suited for single-cell analysis ?
**High monodispersity**: unique liquid-handling capabilities of microfluidic systems
**Reduced costs**: volume down scaling from µL to pL compared to pipetting robots
**Time saving**: molecular diffusion length reduced in small volumes
**Higher sensitivity**: smaller molecular quantity (1.106-fold less) required to reach minimum detectable concentration
****High throughput**:** up to 1.106 cells compartmentalized per second**.**
## Applications
### Drop-Seq:
Single-cell genome or transcriptomic sequencing aims to increase our understanding of complex microbial ecosystems and disease in multicellular organisms by isolating the contributions of distinct cellular populations.
### Unlocking the Potential of Flow Cytometry:
Droplet microfluidics technology has opened the door to groundbreaking capabilities in flow cytometry and (FACS). It allows for the [encapsulation of single cells within double emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/), transforming them into miniature microbioreactors. Within these microreactors, the fluorescence signals produced by specific molecules are captured and analyzed, enabling precise assessment of protein and metabolite secretion.
Through this innovative approach, flow cytometry gains the ability to delve into the intricate world of **protein** and **metabolite secretion**. The double emulsions serve as **microscale laboratories**, where the fluorescence signals arising from specific molecule production can be **effectively trapped and scrutinized.**
### Sorting with FACS for Specific Cell Types:
Beyond flow cytometry, the integration of [fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS) technology](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/) empowers researchers to selectively **collect specific cell types from complex populations**. This technology **facilitates the precise separation and retrieval of cells** of interest, providing invaluable insights for a wide range of applications.
### Microbiome culture:
Compartmentalization of single bacteria inside droplets makes it possible to start [new cultures inside each droplet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microbiome-culture-in-droplet-using-dsurf-surfactant/), preventing growth competition between the different strains and allowing even rare bacteria to grow and form their own culture
### Cell sorting with microfluidics:
Single cell sorter microfluidic platforms provide numerous advantages over conventional methods by reducing the size of necessary equipment, eliminating potentially biohazardous aerosols, and simplifying the complex protocols commonly associated with [**cell sorting.** ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/microfluidic-platform-for-cell-and-particle-sorting-application/)
### Personalized medicine:
Single cell analysis of a tumor’s heterogeneity associated with selection and amplification of specific corresponding T cells for personalized cancer immunotherapy.
## Selected publications from our customers:
Yin, H. and Marshall, D. (2012) “Microfluidics for single cell analysis,” Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 23(1), pp. 110–119. Available at: [**https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copbio.2011.11.002**](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copbio.2011.11.002).
Andersson, H. and van den Berg, A. (2004) “Microtechnologies and nanotechnologies for single-cell analysis,” Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 15(1), pp. 44–49. Available at: [**https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copbio.2004.01.004**](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copbio.2004.01.004).
Yin, H. and Marshall, D. (2012) “Microfluidics for single cell analysis,” Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 23(1), pp. 110–119. Available at: .
## Related Products
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### Microfluidic Software Control
Microfluidic Software control
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### Pressure Reducer for Mixed Pressure Range Modules
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### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
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Microfluidic Size Cell Sorting Pack
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### Encapsulation Platform for FACS
Platform for cell encapsulation in DE droplets
Read more
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MFCS™ series
Read more
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Microfluidic Flow sensor hub
Read more
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### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
FLOW UNIT | FLOW UNIT +
Read more
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## Related resources
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### WEBINAR: Single cell encapsulations compatible with FACS sorting, API encapsulations in biocompatible polymers, and more
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-cell-encapsulations/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### What is the best method for Microencapsulation of Bacteria and Yeast in Small Double Emulsions?
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/what-is-the-best-method-for-microencapsulation-of-bacteria-and-yeast-in-small-double-emulsions/)
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### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
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### WEBINAR – Master the production of Double Emulsions
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-double-emulsion-production/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Encapsulation of Cells In Small Double Emulsions
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cell-encapsulation-in-small-double-emulsions/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Double Emulsion Generation
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
- [
### A complete cell sorting pack for starting size sorting experiments
Discover](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/microfluidic-size-cell-sorting-package/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Droplet & Particle Generation
---
### [Droplet Size Calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
**Published:** January 12, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What is the Raydrop?
The[ **RayDrop**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/) is a microfluidic droplet generator composed of three main parts fully removable:
- An injection capillary composed of a nozzle available in 30µm, 60µm and 90µm size
- An extraction capillary available in 150µm, 300µm and 450µm size
- A body containing a chamber
## How does the RayDrop work?
The RayDrop works as a co-flow focusing principle generating a hydrodynamically focused 3D stream. The nozzle and outlet capillary are aligned in continuous phase chamber, the dispersed phase comes through the nozzle to create the microparticles into the continuous phase and exit by the outlet insert. RayDrop’s design **prevents wettability issues** that could appear in other common microfluidic chips and allows for the generation of **highly monodispersed droplet** with any type of fluid.
## How to mesure the size of a droplet?
Controlling droplet production rate and size has always been a strong drawback. Fluigent developed a droplet size calculator based on the geometry of the RayDrop.
Users can estimate droplet sizes based on measurements obtained from numerical modeling to help predict the diameter.
## Droplet size and frequency calculator
Raydrop configuration 30-150µm 60-300µm 90-450µm
γ (mN/m) μd (cP) μc (cP) Qd (µl/min) Qc (µl/min)
γ: interfacial tension;
µd: dispersed phase dynamic viscosity;
µc: continuous phase dynamic viscosity;
Qd dispersed phase flow rate;
Qc continuous phase flow rate
Note that the droplet size is slightly underestimated as the dispersed phase flow rate is not taken into consideration (Qd -> 0).
## Example of use: Diameter estimation of water-in-oil droplets
Water-in-mineral oil and water-in-HFE-7500 were characterized using our droplet size calculator. Droplet size was determined as a function of the device geometry, fluid properties and flow rate of the continuous phase.
The graphs summarize the results obtained with the two types of emulsions. Droplets with diameter ranging from 41 µm to 375 µm can be obtained.
Note that these predictions have been made in the limit of Qd 0 and underestimate the real droplet size for increasing values of Qd.
## The theoretical model behind our microfluidic droplet size calculator
Our partner Secoya made use of numerical simulations to build the correlations used in the droplet size calculator. A system based on the continuity and Navier-Stokes equations is solved using finite element method (FEM) with moving boundaries.
The model was validated by comparing with experimental data, as shown in the figure below (Cac is the capillary number of the continuous phase).
It has next been used to predict the effect of several parameters such as viscosity ratio, flow rates and geometrical parameters (nozzle inclination angle, nozzle-capillary distance) on droplet formation.
**Comparison between transient simulations green lines and experimental pictures for the formation of water drops in mineral oil R Equivalent radius of the meniscus preceding the pinch off location Cac capillary number of the continuous phase Couple 1 consists of a nozzle of 30 µm diameter and a 150 µm diameter extraction capillary and couple 2 of a nozzle of 90 µm diameter and a 450 µm diameter extraction capillary** ## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
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Microfluidics Article Reviews### Pressure-driven flow controllers vs. Syringe pumps: A flow precision evaluation for optical blood imaging.
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/pressure-driven-flow-controller-vs-syringe-pump/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Flow control for droplet generation using syringe pumps and pressure-based flow controllers
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/droplet-generation-using-syringe-pumps-and-pressure-based-flow-controllers/)
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### WEBINAR – Raydrop, a universal droplet generator based on a non-embedded co-flow-focusing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-droplet-generator/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Double Emulsion Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Support & Tools
---
### [Key reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term performance of your flow control system](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/industrial-oem-expertise/long-term-performance-oem-flow-control-components/)
**Published:** May 18, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Checklist of reliability indicators for OEM components to ensure long-term dependability
As system integration experts, we know that many factors can impact system performance. A system’s reliability can be determined by the assembly procedure, as well as by its weakest component. This determines the mean time before failure (MTBF). Following are some important considerations when selecting OEM flow controllers and other liquid handling components:
- Partner with company with high quality standards. Look for companies that work under quality standards such as ISO 9001, and have successfully completed external audits
- Today, companies must consider pollution and environmental challenges when developing a product. Work with companies that comply with CE, RoHS and others
- Partner with companies capable of providing components and systems with additional certifications such as UL, IP65, or EMC to support you through all system development phases
- Look for companies with proven track record in the OEM industry
## In-depth review of key reliability indicators for OEM components
It is difficult to select a microfluidic flow controller or other liquid handling components based on specification datasheets alone, as minor specification differences will be hard to detect. In addition, specifications are still a variable as some suppliers will simply give them based on sub-components, while some suppliers will determine specifications based on «real life» conditions. After a few months or even years of use, performance can be impacted by this choice, ultimately affecting system reliability and brand image. In addition to our previous checklist, one should emphasize on the following reliability indicators for OEM components when choosing a supplier:
### Regulatory compliance
For some applications, it is required that your OEM components meet regulatory requirements such as ISO 9001. Even if such certificates are not mandatory for your application, fully audited verification of regulatory compliance can ensure higher reliability. In fact, they require testing, monitoring, maintenance, control, and documentation for all processes and protocols that are part of the product development and life cycle. In addition, ISO certificates need to be renewed every three years, ensuring high-quality standards in the long run. [Liquid handling flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/) and other [fluid handling OEM components](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/) that are certified will meet international quality standards and ensure a robust and consistent performance.
### Product calibration and pre-testing
At Fluigent, we believe the performance of your liquid handling system is critical for your application. Precision and accuracy depend on the flow controller itself as well as the other components connected to your system. For ensuring performance, product calibration; validation; and documentation using documented testing systems should be a standard and are reliability indicators for OEM components.
Fluigent can provide customized flow controllers to meet specific requirements (for instance, using pressure controllers, it is possible to have requirements on pressure drop, pressure stability, or gas consumption). A reliable OEM supplier will perform several tests on the customized system and will deliver documentation. A good OEM supplier will accept making post-production adjustments for optimizing your system. You can have a higher trust level for OEM suppliers willing to be fully transparent on testing results.
### Expertise in liquid handling – service and maintenance
Long-term performance will also depend on how the products are used. Knowing how to protect and maintain pumps will increase your system’s lifetime. What gas and liquids are compatible with your system? When using biological liquids such as media, PBS, or high viscosity liquids such as blood, what are the cleaning protocols? What should I do to avoid any clogging inside my system? If using pressure-based flow control, how do I ensure I will not experience any backflow? All these questions and many other reliability indicators for OEM components should appear when [developing your system](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/). A strong OEM partner should take time to answer all your questions, help you in upgrading and maintaining your system, and communicate efficiently with you to provide long-term customer care.
- [### Valve Automation with the F-OEM for Microfluidic Applications
Read more to discover application examples, the challenges of fluidic valve automation, and the benefits of using our F-OEM flow control platform.](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
## Related Resources
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics overview: History and Definition
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Key considerations for fluidic system integration
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### Flow Expertise for Cell Encapsulation and Single-Cell Analysis
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/encapsulation-single-cell-analysis/)
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Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/applications/pressure-controller-valve-automation/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Industrial / OEM Expertise
---
### [STEP file POEM 8C](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-poem-8c/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing FOEM Assembly](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-foem-assembly/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file FOEM Extension Board](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-foem-extension-board/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing FOEM Extension Board](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-foem-extension-board/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing FOEM Integration Board RS232](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-foem-integration-board-rs232/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file FOEM Integration Board RS232](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-foem-integration-board-rs232/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing FOEM Integration Board](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-foem-integration-board/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file FOEM Integration Board](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-foem-integration-board/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing POEM 8C](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-poem-8c/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file POEM 4C](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-poem-4c/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing POEM 4C](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-poem-4c/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file FOEM Pressure Module](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-foem-pressure-module/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing FOEM Pressure Module](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-foem-pressure-module/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file FOEM Switch Module](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-foem-switch-module/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file OEM Flow Sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-oem-flow-sensor/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing OEM Flow Sensor Assembly](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-oem-flow-sensor-assembly/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing OEM Flow Sensor](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-oem-flow-sensor/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing RX Assembly](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-rx-assembly/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file RX Assembly](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-rx-assembly/)
**Published:** October 3, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Drawing PX Assembly](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/drawing-px-assembly/)
**Published:** September 21, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [STEP file PX Assembly](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/cad/step-file-px-assembly/)
**Published:** September 21, 2023
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** CAD
---
### [Software Development Kit](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/software/sdk/)
**Published:** January 17, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
### Product webpage
[
### Lab Integration Software
Custom software development SDK
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/software-development-kit/)
[Windows/MacOS/Linux version](https://github.com/Fluigent/fgt-SDK)
### For developers, visit our GitHub
[Fluigent GitHub](https://github.com/Fluigent)
**Catégories de ressource:** Download software
---
### [How to choose a microfluidic chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
**Published:** January 19, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What is a microfluidic chip?
Microfluidic chips are the devices used in microfluidic studies in which micro-channels have been molded or patterned. The micro-channels forming the microfluidic chip are connected together in order to allow fluids to pass though different channels, going from one place to another. This network is connected to the outside environment through inlet and outlet ports. The liquids or gases are injected, managed or removed from the microfluidic chip with passive ways or external active systems ([**pressure controller**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/), syringe pumps or peristaltic pumps). The channels may have different inner diameters, typically ranging from 5 to 500 µm (read our article about [microfluidic tubing](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/elements-of-a-microfluidic-system/microfluidic-tubing/ "microfluidic tubing")), and their network must be specifically designed for the application and the analysis you want to carry out (cell culture and[ **organ-on-a-chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip) ,[ **DNA analysis**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/), lab-on-a-chip, [**microfluidic droplets**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation). Therefore, microfluidic chips allow the integration of several functions that generally require an entire laboratory in a single micro-sized device.
### Why use microfluidics?
[**Microfluidic devices**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/) such as chips have many advantages as they:
- Decrease sample and reagent consumption.
- Portability and flexibility of device design
- Direct coupling to downstream analysis systems
- Increase automation capabilities: multi-step reactions requiring a low level of expertise
- Excellent data quality and substantial parameter control
- Minimize analysis time
Such devices allow [applications in many areas](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/) such as medicine, biology \[1\], chemistry and physics. Why should you be attentive when you choose a microfluidic chip? The[ **materials for making microfluidic chips**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/) play an important role and should also present the appropriate properties desired by the application.
## Material used in microfluidic devices
### Most common material used in microfluidics reviewed
**Three types** of materials are commonly used to create microfluidic chips: **silicon, glass and polymers.**
Silicon and glass were the original materials first used for microfluidic applications, however as new technological advances occurred, new materials including polymer substrates, composites or paper were used.
For some experiments, a combination of these three chip materials is needed to create the desired microfluidic chip properties. Each material has its specific chemical and physical characteristics. The choice of the material depends on:
- the needs and conditions of your applications.
- the type of solvent, samples, buffers and their polarities
- the design.
- the budget.
Typically, for research purposes, the materials used generally prioritize versatility and performance of the device whereas in commercialization, cost of production, reliability and ease of use are placed above.
### Why should you choose a microfluidic chip in silicon?
The first material used in microfluidics was silicon, even though it was quickly replaced by glass and then polymers. Silicon was first selected due to:
- its resistance to organic solvents
- the ease in metal deposition
- superior thermal conductivity
- surface stability
However, a microfluidic chip in silicon is not easy to handle because of its hardness, which doesn’t make it easy to create active microfluidic components such as valves and pumps. Another drawback appears when performing optical detection as silicon shows significant optical opacity.
Combined with a higher price than other materials, silicon microfluidic chips are not widely used in microfluidic studies.
### Why should you choose a Microfluidic chip in glass?
After the initial focus on silicon, glass was used to build microfluidic chips. Optically transparent and electrically insulating, glass is an amorphous material. This material is generally processed with standard photolithography or wet/dry etching methods. Unless special etching techniques are employed, etched glass channels have rounded sidewalls.
Glass shares with silicon the same advantages mentioned above for microfluidics experiments. But one can add:
- Well-defined surface chemistries
- Superior optical transparency
- Excellent high-pressure resistance
- Biocompatibility
- Chemically inert
- Allows for efficient coatings
Glass is compatible with most biological samples.
A microfluidic chip in glass is not permeable to gas and has relatively low non-specific adsorption. Thus, it is compatible with biological samples, but it cannot be used for long-term cell culture.
One major application of glass microfluidic chips is capillary Electrophoresis (CE). This cheaper method is more convenient than standard CE since it’seasier to perform parallel analysis, and it also offers valve-free injection by directly utilizing the electro osmotic flow, which can separate analytes within seconds.
Other typical applications include on-chip reactions droplet formation, solvent extraction and in situ fabrication.
These make it a **material of choice** for many applications. The main hurdle with this material remains its hardness and its rather **high cost**, even though prices have been significantly reduced. These limitations are the origin to the development of alternative low-cost chip materials that can be easily fabricated and are compatible for broader biological applications.
### Why should you choose a Microfluidic chip in polymers?
Polymer-based microfluidic chips were introduced several years after silicon/glass chips. The vast variety of polymers grants great flexibility in choosing a suitable material with specific properties.
Polymers are a promising alternative to glass and silicon as they are easy to access, cheaper, robust and require faster fabrication processes. Many polymers can be used to build chips:
- Polystyrene (PS)
- Polycarbonate (PC)
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
- Cyclic Olefin Copolymer (COC)
- Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)
- Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)
PDMS is the material of choice for fast prototyping microfluidic devices. **PDMS chips are commonly used in laboratories**, especially in the academic community due to their low cost and ease of fabrication. The main advantages of PDMS microfluidic chips include:
- Oxygen and gas permeability, can be advantageous for oxygen and carbon dioxide transport in cellular studies and long-term experiments
- Optical transparency
- elastomeric properties
- Robustness
- Non toxicity
- Biocompatibility
- Complex microfluidic designs can also be created by stacking multiple layers.
- Relatively low cost
One of the main drawbacks of PDMS chips is its hydrophobic nature. Consequently, introducing aqueous solutions into the microchannels is difficult and hydrophobic analytes can adsorb onto the PDMS surface, thus interfering with analysis. There are now PDMS surface modifications available to avoid issues due to hydrophobicity. Another main issue of PDMS chips is that they are not suitable for high pressure operation as it can alter channel geometry and be prone to leaking at elevated pressure. Bubble formation from passage of gas through PDMS can be problematic.
PDMS is now the most commonly used microchip material.
## Key information to keep in mind when choosing a suitable microfluidic chip
- **Transparent** materials are favored to enable optical observation/analysis
- Materials must be **biocompatible** for life science applications
- Most of the chips need **surface treatment** to adapt their surface properties to the application and to limit non-specific adsorption
## Polymeric materials for a suitable microfluidic chip
Since its introduction, microfluidics keeps advancing along with technology, and expanding its fields of application. Biological and medical applications are a major focus of current research along with other areas. In terms of materials and functions, while glass and silicon have important uses, **polymeric materials have become the material of choice in this field**. As described above, they each have their own advantages and disadvantages. Though PDMS is still the more commonly used microfluidic material substrate, new materials and composites presenting interesting features are created in order to make them more adapted to mass production with lower pricing and greater adaptability.
## REFERENCES
\[1\] Beebe, D. J., Mensing, G. A., & Walker, G. M. (2002). Physics and applications of microfluidics in biology. *Annual review of biomedical engineering*, *4*(1), 261-286.
## Related Expertises
- [Interviews & Testimonials### Panel Discussion & Interviews – Microfluidics & Organ-On-Chips
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/interviews-testimonials/microfluidics-panel-discussion-interviews-2022/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Mastering Microfluidic Chips: An In-Depth Definition
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/what-is-a-microfluidic-chip/)
- [
### 5 reasons to choose OEM pressure controllers over OEM syringe pumps for microfluidic applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/microfluidic-oem/technologies/pressure-controllers-vs-oem-syringe-pumps/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
- [
### White paper: Organ on Chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/white-paper-organ-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfabrication of Microfluidic Chips: Materials and Methods
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-materials-and-production-methods/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Application of microfluidic chip technology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic chips
---
### [TTP ventus disc pump Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/ttp-ventus-disc-pump-datasheet/)
**Published:** February 22, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Evaluation Kit Fluigent x TTP ventus User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/evaluation-kit-fluigent-x-ttp-ventus-user-manual/)
**Published:** February 22, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Choosing the Right Microfluidic Pressure Range](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-tips/choosing-the-right-pressure-range/)
**Published:** May 30, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
[Pressure range guidelines](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/05/pressure-range-guidelines.pdf)
## Why is the choice of flow rate important?
In microfluidics, the choice of flow rate is particularly important due to the unique properties of the fluids and the small scale of the systems involved. First, the choice of flow rate range is vital to controlling flow velocity and residence time for efficient fluid manipulation. Another important factor to consider is the level of [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) on the fluid and any suspended particles or cells within the fluid. As the cells in the human body are constantly subject to shear stress, it is important to be able to control shear stress during microfluidic experiments by adjusting the flow rate. In summary, the flow rate is a critical factor in microfluidic applications that should be carefully selected to ensure accurate and reliable results. This can be achieved with [Fluigent microfluidic pressure controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/).
## Finding the right pressure range for your microfluidic experiment
In microfluidics, the most physiologically relevant physical quantity is the flow rate, as it determines the transport rate of molecules and the mechanical constraints applied inside the channels of your microfluidic chip. The first step would be to [determine the flow-rate range](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/) that best suits your application.
Just like the potential difference in an electrical system, which can be calculated using Ohm’s law once we know the current and electrical resistance values (U=R\*I), the pressure can be calculated from the flow-rate and [hydrodynamic resistance](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-resistance/) values: P=R\*Q. Depending on your channel geometry and tubing setup, the fluidic resistance will change and determine your pressure values for a given flow rate.
Use our calculator to estimate your chip resistance and **[determine the microfluidic pressure range](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/ "determine the microfluidic pressure range")** you need for your application.
## How to calculate flow rate and pressure with the microfluidic calculator?
To help users choose the right instrument and the right micro-scale fluidic pressure range, Fluigent has developed a [flow rate & pressure calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/) that estimates the resistance of most microfluidic setups.
To use the calculator, users must directly input data on:
- [Chip geometry](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/): Users will be able to choose between four types of geometry: straight channel, Y network, cross network and H network. If no design matches, the closest of these four will be chosen.
- Chip channel dimensions: Enter the height, length and width of each section of the chip, and the associated resistance is calculated.
- Tubing dimensions: In the same way, the length and diameter of the tubing entering or leaving the chip must be entered to calculate the associated resistances.
- Control types and values: The type of each control can be either a pressure control or a flow rate control. The type of control for each tubing or microchip channel must be filled in, along with their values.
Finally, based on this data, the calculator can recommend a range of microfluidic pressures and flow rates to use. Users can then select the appropriate microfluidic setup for their experiments.
[Flow rate & pressure calculator](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/)
## General tips for choosing the right pressure range
- The resolution of our flow controllers is always 0.03% of the full scale. For a 2 bar [Flow EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "Flow EZ"), one step of incrementation will be 0.6 mbar. To fully benefit from this resolution, we recommend that you work in the middle of the range (between 500 mbar and 1.5 bar in this case).
- If you want to adjust the microfluidic pressure you are working with, you can modify the resistance value of your system by changing your tubing’s dimensions: longer and narrower tubing will result in higher resistance and thus increased pressure. But remember, a narrower structure also means a higher propensity to clogging.
- We usually recommend that you use a [microfluidic flow controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/) with a higher microfluidic flow rate range.
## Related resources
- [Support & Tools### Pressure & Flow Rate Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/flow-rate-pressure-calculator/)
- [Support & Tools### Shear Stress Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/)
- [Support & Tools### Droplet Size Calculator
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/droplet-calculator/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology?
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### How to choose a microfluidic chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics tips
---
### [Raydrop double emulsions datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-double-emulsions-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 8, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What’s the value of simulating complex mechanical stimulation?
Articular cartilage is a type of connective tissue located at the end of long bones to protect them from friction and to help them support heavy loads (Fig 1). It is usually bathed in synovial fluid, and is therefore subject to mechanical and biochemical activity.
Biochemical or mechanical breakdown of the cartilage results in a disease called osteoarthritis, the most common joint disease, which affects millions of people worldwide. Numerous models have been developed by scientists to understand the processes underlying this disorder, with the goal of finding an optimized cure. However, current methods usually rely on 2D cultures of chondrocyte cells in static conditions, which is physiologically far from the in-vivo 3D assembly of the cells inside an extracellular matrix constantly exposed to fluid flows.
*Figure 1 Schematic of the knee joint*
*Figure 2 PDMS membrane deformation by application of pressure in the actuation chambers*
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/) is of growing interest in the scientific community, as it allows for perfused 3D culture of cells, enabling the development of highly physiologically relevant models in systems referred to as [organ-on-a-chip](https://www.fluigent.com/white-paper-organ-on-chip/). In these models, complex mechanical stimulations can be reproduced by the controlled injection of fluids into the system.
Séverine Le Gac’s team developed a cartilage model in which an agarose hydrogel containing cultured human chondrocytes is subject to compression through the pressurization of actuation chambers to trigger membrane deformation (Fig 2). The effect of this advanced mechanical stimulation on cells was observed.
## Generating complex mechanical stimulation
### Fluigent instruments
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
**Pressure generator:** An [MFCS-EZ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/) pressure controller was used for fluid injection with an excellent response time and high stability. Pressure ranging from 0 to 1500 mbar was generated.
[
### Microfluidic Sampling Valve
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/)
**Valves:** Three [2-switch valves](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-valves/2-switch/) were connected to the pressure generator and a vacuum pump to apply positive or negative pressure to the three actuation chambers and generate complex mechanical stimulation. The valves were connected to a switchboard to allow monitoring on the computer.
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
**Software:** Our [automation software](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/) was used to predefine and automate the pressure levels, enabling the production of complex patterns inside the chip.
The Fluigent setup is shown in Fig 3.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/06/mechanical-stimulus.png)*Fig 3 Fluigent instrument setup*
### Other instruments
[**Microfluidic chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/)**:** Conventional soft-lithography techniques were used to fabricate the chip, made of poly-dimethyl-siloxane (PDMS) and bonded to a PDMS-coated glass slide. This device allows for 3D culture of chondrocytes under dynamic conditions (nutrient supply) and enables the application of a complex mechanical stimulation by deforming the PDMS membrane using pressure (Fig 4).
**Camera:** An ORCA-flash 4.0 LT from Hamamatsu Photonics was used to visualize the effect of pressure on the PDMS membrane.
*Fig 4 Schematic of the microfluidic chip*
## Methods to create complex mechanical stimulation
Experiments were done to verify the cellular viability of chondrocytes upon application of advanced mechanical stimulation. First, a culture of chondrocyte cells isolated from a patient undergoing knee replacement was done. Then cells were cultured inside the microfluidic chamber, with or without (control) mechanical stimuli via application of pressure in the actuation chambers. Several pressures were tested. Finally, a live/dead assay was performed using fluorescent probes to assess cell viability.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/experimental-timeline-of-pressure-actuation.png)*Fig 5 Experimental timeline of pressure actuation*
## Partial results
It was demonstrated that cell viability was not affected by the membrane deformation. The ratio of living cells to dead cells was similar in the case of chondrocytes subject to complex mechanical stimulation and in the control test.
In addition, a study was performed of the cell deformation due to application of pressure in the actuation chambers, and showed that it was not uniform in the matrix, with a maximum deformation value of 13% close to the membrane, decreasing along the matrix’s depth (Fig 6).
*Figure 6 Chondrocyte deformation a no pressure b 800 mbar of compression* Scale 7µm
## Conclusion
Fluigent products were used as an essential tool to develop a physiologically relevant 3D cartilage model and create a complex mechanical stimulation. The application of pressure in the actuation chambers was demonstrated to have an effect on cell shape, but no effect on cell viability was found. More analysis will be done to evaluate the response of chondrocytes to this deformation.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Related resources
- [
### White paper: Organ on Chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/white-paper-organ-on-chip/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [PX Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/px-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [F-OEM Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/f-oem-datasheet/)
**Published:** February 23, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Aria User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/aria-user-manual/)
**Published:** February 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Aria SDK User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/aria-sdk-user-manual/)
**Published:** July 18, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Aria datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/aria-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [FS Series User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fs-series-user-manual/)
**Published:** July 6, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Microfluidics for Transmission Electron Microscopy: Characterization of Copper Electrodeposition](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/characterization-of-copper-electrodeposition-in-liquid-phase-electron-microscopy/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What is Liquid-Phase Transmission Electron Microscopy?
Liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy (LPTEM), also known as in-situ liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy, is a powerful in situ visualization technique for directly characterizing nanomaterials in the liquid state. This technique currently enables researchers to visually study phenomena in a variety of fields, from life sciences to materials science. Examples of phenomena that can be measured with this technique are biomineralization processes, material changes during battery cycling, growth of metallic nanoparticles or structures in liquid, and electrochemical processes such as metal deposition.
The objective of LPTEM is to observe and study the behavior and dynamics of materials in a liquid environment at the nanoscale level.
## What is the difference between conventional TEM and liquid-phase TEM?
In conventional TEM, the sample is typically prepared in a vacuum, which makes it difficult to study materials in their natural state. LPTEM overcomes this limitation by allowing the observation of materials in liquid environments, which can provide important insights into their properties and behavior.
## Controlled microfluidics for LPTEM
However, existing LPTEM techniques frequently suffer from a lack of fluidic control and undesirable electron beam irradiation effects, which limits the use of analytical TEM approaches and produces irreplicable experimental results. To solve this problem, we use the precision and control of microfluidics in our transmission electron microscopy experiments.
Metallic or alloy nanostructures show benefits from increasing the contact area with the reaction medium and accelerating mass/ion transportation in chemical or electrochemical reactions. Direct observation of formation processes, as well as in-situ characterization of nanostructures to monitor the evolution of structural parameters, are crucial to producing materials that deliver optimized performance.
To control this parameter evolution reliably and efficiently, DENSsolutions, in collaboration with Fluigent, implemented an LPTEM system employing pressure-based flow controllers and a dedicated Nano-Cell design. This system, which applies microfluidics to transmission electron microscopy experiments, ensures a constant and well-defined flow to the sample area and enables full control of the liquid environment. As a result, the user is able to reliably measure the correlations between materials processing, structure, properties, and performance, while also observing real-time dynamics in liquid as a function of either heat or biasing.
## Constructing a Liquid-Phase Transmission Electron Microscopy setup
### Materials
**Flow control:**
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Bidirectional Microfluidic Flow Sensor
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sensors/flow-unit/)
[
### Microfluidic Software Control
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/lineup-series/link/)
[
### Airtight metal tube caps for microfluidics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/p-cap-series/)
[
### Real-Time Control & Lab Automation Software
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/software-solutions/oxygen/)
**Microscopy:**
**Liquid cell**
The Stream Nano-Cell is an advanced flow cell for controlling the liquid environment within the microscope.
**Sample holder**
The in-situ TEM Sample Holder provides the platform for connecting the pressure-based flow controller to the Nano-Cell.
**TEM**
FEI Titan 80-300.
**Liquid sample**
CuSO4 (20 mM) and KH2PO4 (10 mM) mixed aqueous solution.
### Methods
***Figure 1.*** *(a) Full setup of the system consisting of the Stream Nano-Cell (b) placed within the TEM Sample Holder (c), The LineUp microfluidic flow controllers consisting of two Flow EZ and a LINK (d), and a Flow Unit XS (e). The flow rate can be locally controlled using the Flow EZ display or by linking the Flow EZ to a computer and using OxyGEN software.*
## Result
### I. Controlling liquid flow and thickness within the microfluidic chamber
The use of liquid-phase transmission electron microscopy brings a **high level of control and reproducibility** to metal characterization experiments.
To demonstrate the high level of liquid control within the microfluidic chamber, the electrolyte was flowed into the window area and subsequently evacuated using the system described in the “Materials & Methods” part of the application note.
*******Figure 2****** **HAADF STEM images of the window area of a liquid biasing Nano Cell at different environmental conditions a no liquid b completely filled with liquid c half evacuated and d no liquid***
### II. Growth and morphology evolution of Cu dendrites
After flowing the electrolyte, the cyclic voltammetry technique was used to study the electrodeposition of Cu. To do this, the electrolyte was injected using a flow rate of 1.7 µL/min, and voltage ranging from -0.70 V to 0.30 V was applied to the Pt electrode.
*****Figure 3*** *Time series of HAADF STEM images illustrating the growth and etching process of Cu dendrites on the Pt electrode by employing cyclic voltammetry scanning In the experiments incident electron flux was set to ~50 e nm 2s 1 and the liquid flow rate was 17 μLmin***
### III. Microstructure and chemical composition analysis
As mentioned above, using liquid-phase TEM makes it possible to monitor and control the metal electrodeposition process with high precision.
To analyze the microstructure and chemical composition, SAED analysis was performed. Because a dry or thin liquid state is required for electron diffraction, the liquid is first pushed out from the microfluidic chamber. After electrodeposition, the diffraction rings for polycrystal were resolved. The indication of 220 diffraction means that a lattice resolution of ~1.28 Å or better can be obtained in the liquid thickness of ~100 nm.
Finally, the chemical composition of the resulting depositions is directly analyzed in the liquid phase. EDX elemental analysis (point, line, or area analysis) is conveniently performed. Figure 4e shows the HAADF-STEM EDX elemental mapping, displaying the spatial distribution of the Cu dendrites and the Pt electrode in the electrolyte and confirming the highly successful functioning of this analysis.
*****Figure 4**. TEM images of (a) the Pt electrode and (c) the Cu dendrites on the electrode, and (b, d) the corresponding SAED patterns in the liquid phase (e) HAADF-STEM EDX elemental mapping, showing the spatial distribution of the Cu dendrites and the Pt electrode in the electrolyte.***
## Conclusion
Using a transmission electron microscope (TEM), an advanced sample holder and flow cell, and precise pressure-based flow controls, we demonstrated how to use a complete experimental setup to observe and characterize copper electrodeposition in liquid phase TEM.
The main innovation of this design is the controlled flow achieved by integrating microfluidics for TEM. This design ensures that the liquid is forced to flow between the chips and through the imaging area, as this is the only route for the liquid to reach the output. The direct connection of the inlet tube to the microfluidic channel of the chip allows precise control of flow direction and velocity. As a result, the reagents are guided directly to the imaging zone, and the cell can be flushed of reacted species. Finally, this configuration ensures that all liquid exiting the zone has experienced the same environmental and temperature conditions.
### References
1\. De Yoreo, J. J. & Sommerdijk, N. A. J. M. Investigating materials formation with liquid-phase and cryogenic TEM. Nat. Rev. Mater. 1, (2016).
2\. Hodnik, N., Dehm, G. & Mayrhofer, K. J. J. Importance and Challenges of Electrochemical in Situ Liquid Cell Electron Microscopy for Energy Conversion Research. Acc. Chem. Res. 49, 2015–2022 (2016).
3\. Smeets, P. J. M., Cho, K. R., Kempen, R. G. E., Sommerdijk, N. A. J. M. & De Yoreo, J. J. Calcium carbonate nucleation driven by ion binding in a biomimetic matrix revealed by in situ electron microscopy. Nat. Mater. 14, 394–399 (2015).
4\. Sugi, H. et al. Dynamic electron microscopy of ATP-induced myosin head movement in living muscle thick filaments. Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 94, 4378–4382 (1997).
5\. Mirsaidov, U. M., Zheng, H., Casana, Y. & Matsudaira, P. Imaging protein structure in water at 2.7 nm resolution by transmission electron microscopy. Biophys. J. 102, L15–L17 (2012).
6\. Peckys, D. B., Korf, U., Wiemann, S. & De Jonge, N. Liquid-phase electron microscopy of molecular drug response in breast cancer cells reveals irresponsive cell subpopulations related to lack of HER2 homodimers. Mol. Biol. Cell 28, 3193–3202 (2017).
7\. Ahmad, N., Wang, G., Nelayah, J., Ricolleau, C. & Alloyeau, D. Exploring the Formation of Symmetric Gold Nanostars by Liquid-Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy. Nano Lett. 17, 4194–4201 (2017).
8\. Wang, C. M. et al. In situ transmission electron microscopy and spectroscopy studies of interfaces in Li ion batteries: Challenges and opportunities. J. Mater. Res. 25, 1541–1547 (2010).
9\. Williamson, M. J., Tromp, R. M., Vereecken, P. M., Hull, R. & Ross, F. M. Dynamic microscopy of nanoscale cluster growth at the solid-liquid interface. Nat. Mater. 2, 532–536 (2003).
10\. van Omme, J. T. et al. Liquid phase transmission electron microscopy with flow and temperature control. J. Mater. Chem. C (2020) doi:10.1039/d0tc01103g
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [University of Rochester: A tissue chip platform for real-time sensing of secreted inflammatory markers using ARIA](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/tissue-chip-platform/)
**Published:** June 8, 2023
**Author:**
**Content:**
In collaboration with the [University of Rochester’s Biomedical Engineering department](http://www.hajim.rochester.edu/bme/research/index.html "University of Rochester’s Biomedical Engineering department")
## Testimonial
“While developing a new type of tissue chip that integrates real-time biosensing capabilities, I needed a microfluidic system that could deliver varied samples at precise flow rates. The Aria’s intuitive interface and automation software make it very easy to use for long-term experiments with many steps, and the internal fluidic routing conveniently avoids interfering with our already-complicated optical experimental setup. Also, the flow rate readout and feedback make it easy to control pressure inside our microfluidic devices and prevent bubbles, which is very important for our cell-based experiments. Fluigent was incredibly helpful in supporting us as we introduced their equipment into our lab and continues to provide excellent support when we (rarely) need it.”
****John Cognetti, University of Rochester****
## Why develop a photonic biosensor-integrated tissue chip model?
### ***An alternative to animal studies for drug discovery***
Although animal studies are currently the preferred option for evaluating the safety, efficacy, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity of potential treatments, their results are often difficult to correlate with human outcomes due to physiological differences and genetic variations between species. Additionally, animal studies can be costly, require a large workforce, and raise ethical concerns due to the need for a significant number of animals. Human clinical studies also face challenges due to the heterogeneity of individuals and the complexity of the studies. Therefore, [microfluidic models in a chip](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/microfluidic-chips-key-applications/) format may offer **an efficient alternative to animal studies**, providing a **reliable, cost-effective, and ethical approach** for [drug discovery](https://www.fluigent.com/?s=drug+discovery).
### **Advancements in *In Vitro* Models: Tissue Chips Mimicking Human Organs and Tissues**
*In vitro* models are an alternative to animal models that can overcome the problem of heterogeneity between humans and animals and can also reduce costs and avoid ethical issues. However, previous *in vitro* models were limited in complexity and could not reflect physiological relevance of in *vivo* tissues or organs. To address this issue, microfluidic technologies, such as the tissue chip platform developed by the Biomedical Engineering department at the University of Rochester, were developed. This technology incorporates a **microfluidic delivery system** capable of **mimicking the complexityof human organs** and **tissues**, including 3D architectures.\[1\] [These chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/) provide a physiologically relevant level of tissue organization, geometry, soluble gradients, and mechanical stimulation in an accurate and regulated manner. \[2\] This technology represents a significant advancement in drug discovery and development, as it allows for the development of more predictive methods for assessing the toxicity and efficacy of new compounds and therapeutics, as well as disease modeling and characterization. \[1\] Moreover, the integration of sensors into these microfluidic chips enables high throughput analysis.
### ***Benefits of using a photonic biosensor integrated into the chip***
The primary objective of this study is the real-time sensing of specific biomolecules. Detecting cytokine secretion by epithelial cells in real-time is a crucial goal for tissue chip technologies, as cytokines play a vital role in various inflammatory diseases such as lung infections and can act as useful biomarkers. Unfortunately, few techniques have been developed to determine the cellular response to a stimulus in real time, and the few that exist may utilize fluorescent tags that can disturb the system or lack specificity in their biosensing capabilities. \[4\] As a result, researchers from the Department of Biomedical Engineering at the University of Rochester have taken up this challenge and developed a new platform based on tissue chip technology. The purpose of this tissue chip platform is to measure the secretion kinetics and concentrations of analytes in close proximity to the lung epithelial cells, which will aid in better understanding the disease dynamics. To maximize the sensing performance, a photonic biosensor has been integrated into the chip at extreme proximity to the cells, which represents an innovative, label-free, and highly sensitive solution.
## Using the ARIA in the tissue chip platform for real-time sensing of inflammatory markers
### ****Description of the tissue chip platform****
The University of Rochester has developed a new, innovative platform with the goal of improving existing tissue chip models and creating a device capable of sensing the secretions related to the inflammation of lung epithelial cells in real time. This platform consists of various components listed below:
- A microfluidic tissue chip: This microfluidic device includes two microfluidic channels separated by a thin nanoporous membrane. The upper channel is used for sample supply, while the lower channel is sealed and in direct contact with the biosensor, which collects the inflammatory markers secreted by the cells. The lowest layer of the chip is equipped with a photonic biosensor that can capture certain resonance wavelengths that are modified by the refractive index of entities in close proximity, thanks to 14 rings functionalized according to the targeted analyte. Thus, in the presence of cytokines around the rings, a shift in the resonance wavelengths of the rings towards the red end of the spectrum may be observed in a manner consistent enough to be quantified according to the concentration of cytokine in the medium. The membrane is made of a nanoporous silicon nitride membrane (NPN), optically clear, composed of four slots and serves as a substrate for the cell culture. The cells will be able to adhere to it and create tight junctions in the form of a monolayer network.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/06/photonic-sensor-enabled-tissue-chip.png)**Figure 1 Photonic Sensor Enabled Tissue Chip a Schematic of the working principle of the device b Exploded view with layers c Top view with outer dimensions of the device**
- Fluid delivery: To supply the tissue chip device continuously during the experiment, our [**automated sequential injection system**](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)**,** the [ARIA](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/), is used upstream of the chip. It is controlled by a pressure-driven fluid pump and can be pre-loaded with **up to 10 different samples**. A switch function allows for seamless transition between samples, and a bubble trap prevents air from disrupting the cells in the device.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2023/06/tissue-chip-platform-2.png)***Figure 2 Fluigents ARIA used in the platform***
- Optical configuration: An optical set-up is also used to capture the resonance shifts transmitted by the sensors in real time. This includes a tunable laser source, a fiber array aligned to the chip, and visible IR cameras.
- Data analysis: Finally, a custom python program is used to compute the resonance shifts transmitted by the sensors and captured by the optical set-up, allowing the experimenter to access this data via an interface. The interface allows users to select the peaks and categorize them according to the nature of the sensor ring (control or capture) and thus the relative shift is calculated depending only on the specific capture of the analytes.
The tissue chip platform is placed in an aluminum stage fitted with a thermoelectric coupler and a thermistor to maintain the device at 37°C.
### *Course of the experiment*
Human bronchial epithelial cells (16HBE line) are used in the tissue chip model due to their ability to form tight monolayers *in vitro*, attributed to the presence of a robust network of tight junctions. These cells are also known to secrete cytokines in response to stimulation with bacterial endotoxin lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A complete or nearly complete monolayer of cells is seeded into the device, covering the four membrane slots. The [Aria](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) reservoirs are preloaded with the necessary solutions (media, LPS, controls) and the platform is maintained at 37°C. During sensing experiments, the two channels are disconnected from each other. The bottom channel is sealed with binder clips to capture analytes produced during passive cell diffusion on the photonic biosensor, while the inlet of the top channel is connected to the outlet tubing of ARIA. The medium is diffused at a continuous rate of 30 µL/min through the top channel during 30min, followed by the LPS at 100 ng/mL for two hours. By aligning the chip to the fiber array, spectral measurement can begin immediately, and data is acquired in real-time.
*Figure 3: Set-up of the platform.*
## Partial results
### *Control tests*
Initially, a single channel microfluidic device was used to calibrate the sensors with four analytes. The pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 were tested, along with the C-reactive protein (CRP), which acted as a negative control for cell stimulation (not secreted by the 16HBE), and a positive control for the sensor (120kDa pentamer easily detected by the photonic biosensor; added exogenously at the end of the experiment). The four tests confirmed that the relative shift in pm is directly proportional to the analyte concentration. Next, a second test was conducted to ensure that the 16HBE cells behaved as expected and formed tight junctions. This was proven using the junction marker ZO-1 after four days of cell culture in the device. Finally, a control was performed to prove that analytes originating from the membrane can indeed reach the membrane in a short time. The assay was conducted on the analytes IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-8 in a cell-free chip, and relatively similar shifts were observed after 5-10 minutes after the entry of the different analytes into the top channel. This validated the possibility of acquiring time-resolved data of the cellular response to a stimulus added to the top channel.
The tests confirmed the proper functioning of the different key components of the tissue chip device. The next step involves testing the platform under experimental conditions.
### *Sensing of cellular secretion partial results*
The media flowed via the [ARIA](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/) for 30 minutes on the complete platform described above, followed by the injection of LPS at 100ng/mL for two hours. One hour after the injection of LPS, a sensor response was observed, which resulted in an increase in the relative shift for interleukin IL-1β and IL-6 secreted by the lung epithelial cells. Equilibrium was reached between 90-120 minutes. This demonstrates that interleukins can diffuse to the biosensor located at the bottom of the tissue chip. The response was shown to be specific to the cytokines secreted by HBEs by analyzing the curve in Figure 4c, which shows the lack of variation of the relative shift as a function of the CRP concentration. An additional test was performed using a membrane without cells on some of its slots, revealing that the shift is less strong for the sensors farther away from cells.
In summary, these experiments have demonstrated that the photonic tissue chip platform can detect physiologically relevant concentrations of analyte and report on the quantity of cytokines secreted by inflamed epithelial cells in real time following LPS stimulation. Additional tests have also shown that these sensors can provide data with both spatial and temporal resolutions.
**Figure 4* Sensing of Secreted Cytokines a IL 1β b IL 6 c CRP*
Read the full article
## References
\[1\] Low LA, Tagle DA. Tissue chips – innovative tools for drug development and disease modeling. Lab Chip. 2017;17(18):3026-3036. doi:10.1039/C7LC00462A
\[2\] Donoghue L, Nguyen KT, Graham C, Sethu P. Tissue Chips and Microphysiological Systems for Disease Modeling and Drug Testing. Micromachines 2021, Vol 12, Page 139. 2021;12(2):139. doi:10.3390/MI12020139
\[3\] Microfluidic white paper – A guide to Organs-on-Chips technology, Fluigent
\[4\] Morales AW, Zhang YS, Aleman J, et al. Label-free detection of protein molecules secreted from an organ-on-a-chip model for drug toxicity assays. In: Frontiers in Biological Detection: From Nanosensors to Systems VIII. Vol 9725. SPIE; 2016:972508. doi:10.1117/12.2212971
## Related expertise
- [
### White paper: Organ on Chip
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/white-paper-organ-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Automated immunolabeling to perform highly multiplexed tissue imaging with ARIA
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/automated-immunolabeling/)
- [version="1.0"?
Fluigent products manual### Aria User Manual
Download](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/aria-user-manual/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Passive and active mechanical stimulation in microfluidic systems ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/passive-mechanical-stimulation-induced-by-laminar-and-pulsatile-shear-stress/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
- ****Active mechanical stimulation**** as a direct consequence of organ function. Organs like lungs, muscles and intestines are in active motion, and cells in those organs are mainly subjected to compression and stretching.
- **Passive or indirect mechanical stimulation**. Cells similar to conjunctive tissues or endothelial cells are passively exposed to the [shear stress](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/) of blood or interstitial fluid. However, this type of stimulation still has a substantial effect on cell growth, phenotype and genetic expression.
[Organ-on-a-chip page](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Passive mechanical stimulation
**Indirect mechanical forces** – those that mainly originate from hydrodynamic phenomena – and the subsequent **strain and shear stress are integral parts of the cellular microenvironment**. Mechanical forces applied at the cell surface are translated into biochemical signals in cells. This phenomenon, called **mechanotransduction,** has been extensively described in the literature. It **modulates cell proliferation, migration, phenotype, and/or differentiation**1 and plays a critical role in tissue **morphogenesis, homeostasis, and wound healing**.2–4
As a result, **reproducing these mechanical forces and subsequent** [**shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/) **and strain is critical to fully capturing the physiology of living tissues.** **Organs on chips are the perfect tools to implement shear stress,** as one or several fluids can be perfused within the chip. **Liquid flow usually induces shear stress on cells or tissues** cultured on the device, and is called shear flow.1 **Three types of flows** encountered in vivo are typically generated for producing shear stress in an organ-on-a-chip devices: **laminar, pulsatile and interstitial flow**.
### Shear flow in organ-on-a-chip systems
#### Shear from constant laminar flow
**Laminar flow** is predominant in tissues and organs, and therefore in organ-on-a-chip devices as well. The **Reynolds number** (for a tube *Re* = *ρud / µ*, with *ρ* the fluid density, *u* the flow velocity, and *d* the tube diameter) helps to predict flow patterns in different fluid flow situations. At low Reynolds number (typically *Re* < 1000), the flow is laminar: fluid flows in parallel layers, with no disruption between them, as opposed to turbulent flow. As the dimensions are at the **micrometer scale in most tissues and organs** (e. g., capillaries are about 8 to 10 microns in diameter), the Reynolds number is low (typically *Re* < 10). **Flows are thus mainly laminar**, with a characteristic velocity flow profile (figure 1). The [**shear stress**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/) is directly related to the **flow velocity** (see the next section for more information). As a result, **laminar flow is a prerequisite in most organ-on-a-chip research**, and **particular care should be addressed to flow control**.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/representation-laminar-flow.png)*Figure 1: Schematic depiction of (a) laminar and (b) turbulent flow*
D. Kamm et al. developed an in-vitro model of human microvasculature to study the effect of luminal flow (typically laminar) on the migration of tumoral cells, allowing for a better understanding of the process of metastatic cascade (extravasation and subsequent interstitial migration). In particular, they showed that luminal flow significantly promoted the extravasation potential of tumor cells compared to static conditions, with an average **intravascular speed of tumor cells of ~ 12.5 μm/h under flow, compared to ~ 9.4 μm/h under static conditions**. This result shows the important role of **fluid flow** during **metastatic extravasation and invasion**.5
For implementing flows, the **type of perfusion system is critical.** Peristaltic pumps are widely used but deliver a **highly pulsatile flow** that oscillates around the set flow rate value, which is **not representative of any physiological condition** in the body and can damage cells. **Conversely,** [**a** **pressure-based system can deliver constant flow**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/flow-control-technologies/). We demonstrated the[ importance of flow stability](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/advantages-of-pressure-based-microfluidics/microfluidic-instrument-stability/) in vascular models by perfusing endothelial cells seeded in microfluidic chips using either a [peristaltic pump](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/) or [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/).
[See our application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
## Shear from pulsatile flow
### What is pulsatile flow?
**Pulsatile flow** is mainly observed in arteries. Pulsations are smoothed by the muscle of the arterial walls. Pulsations are a direct consequence of heartbeats. The heart acts as a reciprocating pump that drives blood directly into the aorta. At each stroke, the flow reaches a peak (systole), then diminishing to a low (diastole) until the next stroke.6 This produces pulsatile flow at each stroke instead of a continuous flow. **Although pulsatile, flow remains laminar**, with the velocity flow profile varying as a function of time.6 In fact, a typical flow rate curve of the artery for one heartbeat cycle displays two local maxima and a minimum, with positive and negative flow rate values (figure 2a).7
As a result, the flow direction and the amplitude of the velocity flow profile will vary as a function of time (figure 2b). Of course, this has an impact on the **shear stress** (or shear flow), since it is derived from flow velocity. More information on flow velocity patterns and subsequent shear flow can be found in the literature.6 **Pulsatile flow** is usually performed in **blood vessel-on-chip models** to simulate the actual pulsatile blood flow in human circulation.8
*Figure 2: a) Flow rate as a function of time during a single heart beat cycle*
*Figure 2: b) Example of an oscillatory velocity profiles in a rigid tube.6. Note that this is a mathematical simplification of oscillatory blood flow*
As an example, **microchannels mimicking human arteries and blood vessels were developed** to investigate the influence of glucose and shear stress on endothelial cell apoptosis, a hallmark of vascular complications due to diabetes.8 The authors performed the experiments under pulsatile and static flow conditions. They observed that **under static conditions, glucose-treated cells induced 5.5 times less apoptosis than when using pulsatile flow**. This observation demonstrates the critical role of flow-induced shear stress in driving hyperglycemia-induced EC death.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Shear from interstitial fluid flow
### What is interstitial fluid flow?
**Interstitial fluid flow** is the movement of **fluid through the extracellular matrix of tissues**, where cells such as fibroblasts, immune tissue cells, and adipocytes are found.1,9 Fluid flow carries large proteins through the interstitium and **mechanically stimulates interstitial cells**. Several studies have demonstrated that **shear flow induced by interstitial fluid is crucial for cellular activities**, as such flows induce physiological responses from cells10–14 such as cell differentiation. Interstitial fluid typically flows at a lower velocity compared to blood flow within vessels because of the high flow resistance of the extracellular matrix. Flow velocity profile and subsequent shear flow is also more difficult to define due to the complex architecture of the extracellular matrix, and because the fluid moves around the cell-matrix interface in all directions. Some studies have analyzed shear stress in such architectures in depth with numerical simulations.
A 3D cell culture microfluidic device was developed to provide new insight into how interstitial flow affects breast cancer cell invasion.15 Specifically, the authors found that compared to static flow conditions, **interstitial flow increased the number of migratory cells, as well as their migratory speed.** These observations demonstrate how important it is to consider interstitial flows in tumor models, as they affect tumor cell invasion and invasion direction.
## Flow [shear stress calculation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/) in a microfluidic device
As explained in the above paragraphs, mechanical stimulation in the form of **shear stress** has a strong impact on cell behavior. The shear flow applied to adherent cells when performing organ-on-a-chip experiments can be determined using **fluid dynamics equations**, and more specifically, the continuity and Navier-Stokes equations. We present here the **flow velocity profiles and** [**shear stress equations**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/microfluidic-calculators/shear-stress-calculator/) **for two common microfluidic channel geometries**: circular and rectangular channels.
### Circular channel
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/circular-cross-section-of-diameter-d-3d-representation.png)*Figure 3 a Circular cross section of diameter d with adherent cells*
For a circular cross-section of diameter d, the fully developed velocity profile in cylindrical coordinates (r,θ,z) follows the equation:16
*Figure 3 b Velocity profile in a microfluidic channel*
Where Q is the flow rate and r is the radial distance from the centerline of the channel (see figure). The distribution of flow velocities follows a parabolic profile, and the maximum velocity is for r = 0, at the center of the channel. It is of interest to determine the shear stress distribution at the channel wall (r = d/2), as this is where cells are located in the chip. To do so, the strain rate should be calculated by differentiating the flow velocity with respect to r. We get:
Where µ is the dynamic viscosity and Q is the flow rate. This indicates that the shear stress remains constant along the channel walls and is a function of the viscosity, flow rate, and channel diameter. At constant channel diameter and viscosity, the higher the flow rate, the higher the shear stress.
### Rectangular channel
In microfluidic devices with rectangular channels, the flow velocity profile and subsequent shear stress are more complex. Wall shear stress is not constant and varies across the top, bottom, and side walls of the channel. Detailed analysis can be found in the literature.16 In some studies, however, the geometry is simplified by considering two infinite parallel plates instead of closed channels. Under this assumption, the shear stress follows the equation:
Where Q is the flow rate, µ is the dynamic viscosity, and w and h are the channel width and height, respectively.
*Figure 4: Cross-section of a rectangular channel*
## Active mechanical stimulation
### Compressive stress
Specific tissues such as heart, blood vessels, and bone cells are exposed to **compression**.**17–19** An excellent example of the importance of compression is [**cartilage regeneration**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/mechanical-stimulation-in-a-cartilage-on-chip/). It has been proven that mechanical stimulation of intervertebral disc cells (which mostly originates from compression) acts as an important stimulus for **increasing cartilage matrix anabolism.**
In vitro investigations have demonstrated that **in the absence of physical stimulation**, chondrocytes **change their phenotype during proliferation** and lose their capability to produce the typical extracellular matrix for cartilage.20
Mechanical stimulation is therefore a prerequisite for [ **in-vitro investigations** of cartilage](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/) and spinal diseases, and compression has well been studied in bone and cartilage tissue engineering.20,22
*Figure 5: Schematic depiction of the knee joint*
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/compressive-stress.png)*Figure 6 a Schematic diagram of a microfluidic chip for active mechanical compression*
Fluigent presented a **cartilage on a chip model (see figure)** to elucidating how chondrocytes react to mechanical stimuli, allowing to **understand processes triggering cartilage diseases like osteoarthritis11.** This organ on a chip platform (consisting of a mechanical stimulation unit, a PDMS membrane, a 3D cell culture chamber, and a perfusion channel) allowed performing **mechanical stimulation on cells**, while **creating dynamic culture conditions**. More information can be found on the **application note webpage.**
Fluigent has presented a [**cartilage-on-a-chip model**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/) **(see figure 5 a))** to elucidate how chondrocytes react to mechanical stimulation, allowing us to **understand the processes that trigger cartilage diseases like osteoarthritis.27** This organ-on-a-chip platform (consisting of a mechanical stimulation unit, a PDMS membrane, a 3D cell culture chamber, and a perfusion channel) allowed researchers to apply **mechanical stimulation to cells** to create **dynamic culture conditions**.
[Read our application note ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/mimic-compression-gif.gif)*Figure 6 b Compression of the ECM using the microfluidic chip*
In the microenvironment, **compression imposed on a cell** generally originates from cell-cell or cell-ECM interactions. Organ-on-a-chip devices can be used to **mimic compression** by applying pressure on specific areas of the chip**,** making it possible to compress cells or tissues in a precise manner. The devices usually integrate **flexible membranes** or **diaphragms** which bend upon compression.
*Figure 7 Comparison between compression in vivo and compression in a microfluidic model*
Membrane compression is mostly performed by **applying air pressure** on top of the membrane. Evaluating this mechanical force is easy, but determining the stress directly exerted on cells or tissues is more difficult, as the **stress distribution** will depend on the design of the organ-on-a-chip device.
Stress estimations are usually performed using finite element analysis and modeling to implement channel dimensions, material properties, and applied pressures.23,24
Several examples of compressive stress in organ-on-a-chip models can be found in the field of **tissue engineering and regenerative medicine**. A good example is the organ-on-a-chip model developed by Sim *et al*.25 Traditional methods like hydrostatic pressure chambers generally use a **high amount of compression load**,**26** limiting the studies to high mechanical forces. In addition, such methods often **r**equire a large number of cells, samples, or fluid volumes. To address these limitations, **an organ-on-a-chip device** containing microscale cell culture chambers separated from an air-pressure chamber was developed, allowing researchers to apply **micromechanical stimulations**.25
The authors compared human mesenchymal stem **cell proliferation** using moderate levels of cyclic compressive stress (1 to 5 kPa) and at static conditions. They found that the cell proliferation rate of the mechanical stimulation group was about 1.5 higher than the control group after one week**,** revealing that **cyclic compressive stress** at moderate levels can **enhance the proliferation** of human mesenchymal stem cells.
### Stretch and strain
**Pulsatile flow** is mainly observed in arteries. Pulsations are smoothed by the muscle of the arterial walls. Pulsations are a direct consequence of heartbeats. The heart acts as a reciprocating pump that drives blood directly into the aorta. At each stroke, the flow reaches a peak (systole), then diminishing to a low (diastole) until the next stroke.22 This produces pulsatile flow at each stroke instead of a continuous flow. **Although pulsatile, flow remains laminar**, with the velocity flow profile varying as a function of time22. In fact, a typical flow rate curve of the artery for one heartbeat cycle displays two local maxima and a minimum, with positive and negative flow rate values (figure 2a).23 As a result, the flow direction and the amplitude of the velocity flow profile will vary as a function of time (figure 2b). Of course, this has an impact on the **shear stress** (or shear flow), since it is derived from flow velocity. More information on flow velocity patterns and subsequent shear flow can be found in the literature.22 **Pulsatile flow** is usually performed in [**blood vessel-on-chip models**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/paper-highlights/a-human-bbb-blood-brain-barrier-on-chip-to-assess-vascular-permeability/) to simulate the actual pulsatile blood flow in human circulation.24
In addition to flow-induced shear stress and compressive stress, **tensile mechanical force** applied to the cellular microenvironment leads to **strain and stress on the tissue**. The lung is a good example of this phenomenon. During **inspiration**, intrapleural pressure decreases, causing the alveoli to expand. This pulls air into the lungs, resulting in **stretching o**f the alveolar epithelium and the endothelium in adjacent capillaries.28 This stretching results in **mechanical strains induced on cells**. It has already been demonstrated that **tensile stress** induced by stretching affects **cellular membrane integrity**29 and **cell shape, spreading, and proliferation.**30 Stretching is usually performed for [**gut-on-a-chip**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/), **heart-on-a-chip** or **muscle-on-a-chip** models, as these organs are subject to stretching or strain in vivo.29–31 Stretching in organ-on-a-chip devices is usually performed using **pressure or vacuum**.29,32–36 The chips usually consist of a central channel for cell culture and perfusion**,** with pressurized side channels below or around the central channel (see figure). The channels are made of flexible material, allowing for **elastic distortion** of the membrane **when applying positive or negative pressure**. Upon bending, cells or tissues are stretched and experience a tensile stress.
*Figure 8 Schematic of the mechanical stretch in a microfluidic device*
It is possible to **estimate the strain and stress applied to the device** and cells using **theoretical models** derived from continuum mechanics that are computed in **finite element models.** These models are relatively complex and can differ from one system to another (bi-axial or circumferential strain, gel or cell culture, etc.). Excellent model descriptions and derivations can be found in the literature.29,33,34,36–39 Briefly, the authors used nonlinear or hyperelastic material models that connect stresses to strains, using tensors such as the Cauchy-Green strain tensor and the Piola-Kirchhoff stress tensor. The models are generally implemented in **finite element software models** for validation.
A great example of how organ on a chip technology with stretch-induced cell stress has led to scientific progress is the **gut-on-a-chip model** developed by a joint group of researchers from Harvard University and MIT. **Human intestinal inflammatory diseases** such as Crohn’s disease are thought to be caused by a combination of many factors such as complex interactions between gut microbiome,40 intestinal mucosa,41 and peristalsis suppression41 (strongly associated with inflammation and intestinal bacterial overgrowth). However, it is not possible to study the intrinsic effect of each factor in vivo as they are inextricably linked. **Traditional and in-vitro models** (i.e. cell culture in flasks or petri dishes) are also incompatible with such studies as they **poorly reproduce the pathophysiology** of human inflammatory bowel disease. In such models, the **peristaltic motion** that acts as a strong **d**river of normal cell differentiation **is missing.** To address these limitations, Kim *et al.* developed a [**human gut-on-a-chip device**](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/development-of-a-human-gut-on-chip-to-assess-the-effect-of-shear-stress-on-intestinal-functions/) consisting of two microfluidic channels separated by a porous flexible membrane coated with extracellular matrix, and two side **vacuum chambers** for simulating **peristaltic motions** and subsequent cell **stretching**.**31** The devices allowed them to study the factors of intestinal inflammatory diseases individually. They used the chip to analyze the effect of cyclic stretching (10% in cell strain, 0.15 Hz in frequency) on the proliferation of GFPEC bacteria cultured under flow. They observed that bacterial **cell densities** more than **doubled** within a day when cultured without **cyclic stretching**.
This discovery suggested that cessation of epithelial distortion can trigger **bacterial overgrowth**, and refuted the previous hypothesis that bacterial overgrowth originated from fluid flow.42 This **new organ-on-a-chip** model made it possible to analyze multiple factors in a controlled manner, which was **not possible** using existing **in-vitro** **systems** or animal models, allowing researchers to gain new insights into gut pathophysiology.
## Related applications
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Cartilage-on-a-chip, an example of complex mechanical stimulation using Fluigent’s technology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/cartilage-on-chip-using-fluigent-mfcs-pressure-controller/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Why Control Shear Stress in Cell Biology?
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/controling-shear-stress/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Cell Biology
---
### [Droplet and particle manipulation using electrophoretic flow control](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/droplet-and-particle-manipulation-using-electrophoretic-flow-control/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
Most of the time, this implies complex microfabrication processes to build embedded electrodes inside the microfluidic chip. This can be avoided by the use of Fluigent’s Electrowell device, which combines pressurized fluid reservoirs with a choice of electrodes. These charged reservoirs can be simultaneously connected to an MFCS™-EZ pressure controller and a high voltage generator in order to generate both a pressure-driven flow and/or an electroosmotic flow in the fluid.
This application note explains how a droplet manipulation setup using embedded conventional indium electrodes could be replaced with a microchip using Electrowell-generated liquid electrodes, with a simpler design that provides enhanced performance.
### Related Products
[
### Microfluidic Flow Control System
MFCS™ series
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/mfcs-series/)
[
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Pressurized fluid reservoirs
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Microfluidics for vaccine development ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidics-for-vaccines-research-and-development/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## Technological advances for vaccine development
First-generation vaccines are based on whole organisms, in either live attenuated or killed forms. Second-generation vaccines consist of protein components derived from the organism. Today, third-generation vaccines are being developed. These nucleic acid vaccines are based on the genetic material of the infectious organism. DNA vaccines are examples of third generation vaccines. Clinical trials for DNA vaccines to prevent HIV are currently underway.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the first vaccines to reach clinical trials were based on viral vector and nucleic acid technologies. **One of the most promising vaccine candidates was based on mRNA,** as it offers a cost-effective, easy to manufacture, adaptable solution and induces both a cellular and a humoral response.
Scientific advances are becoming more and more critical in the success of fundamental vaccine research, vaccine development, and diagnostics. **New methods such as microfluidics for vaccine research can be used to improve development processes.**
## Microfluidics in vaccine research and development
Efficient delivery of mRNA and DNA into target cells in vivo is a major challenge. Today, many vaccines are [encapsulated](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/webinars/drug-encapsulation-in-biocompatible-microparticles-for-drug-delivery/) into nanoparticles, specifically lipid nanoparticles (LNP) such as liposomes, for improved delivery efficiency. The first COVID-19 vaccines to reach the market are mRNA vaccines encapsulated in LNP.
Size and size distribution are essential properties in determining the clinical success of nanocarriers. Recently, improvements have been made in the development of microfluidic production methods, in which LNP formation occurs within a confined microenvironment with spontaneous self-assembly of the phospholipids as a sphere to minimize surface energy. These methods have demonstrated higher control over the physical properties of the end product, particularly in terms of liposome size and size distribution.
[Liposome synthesis application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liposome-nanoparticles-synthesis/)
## Examples of microfluidics applications in vaccine development
### Vaccine adjuvant production
Among the various applications of microfluidics in vaccine development, adjuvant production is on the front line. Adjuvants are used to amplify the recipient’s specific immune responses against pathogen infection. A new generation of adjuvants is being developed to meet the demands of improved antigen-specific responses with less toxicity. For example, *Konishi et al*. reported the first synthesis of a series of saponins, a vaccine adjuvant, using a [microfluidic mixer](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components-3/raydrop/).3
[Microfluidic mixing using the Raydrop](https://www.fluigent.com/product/microfluidic-components-3/raydrop/)
[](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/liposome-synthesis-application-note.jpg)
### High throughput screening
Flow cytometry for single-virus analysis shows high potential in virology, vaccine development, and antiviral research. However, such analysis can be difficult to perform because fluorescence-activated cell sorting (FACS), the standard technique in modern biology, does not allow for single-virus measurements due to viruses’ small size.
[Double emulsions application note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/double-emulsion-production/)
The [Fluigent double emulsion production station](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/double-emulsion-production-station/) is a robust and complete system for producing outstanding monodispersed double emulsions with a single device.
[Droplet-based microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/) combined with next-generation sequencing can allow for high-throughput screening of virus particles. For instance, *Chaipan et al.* have developed a droplet-based microfluidic platform to screen single virus particles for optimal antigenic features of vaccine candidates and demonstrated the platform’s use by screening HIV particles.4
[Drop-Seq method](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/drop-seq-method/)
The Drop-Seq protocol is a high-throughput method that enables sequencing of mRNA from a large number of cells.
### Virus detection and analysis
Finally, virus detection applications are of particular interest in vaccine development. The quantity of virus in a sample is typically quite low, and diluted in a mix of all kinds of proteins, DNA and RNA. An amplification step is therefore necessary to increase the quantity of detectable RNA. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and other PCR-related methods such as quantitative PCR (qPCR), amplify and quantify DNA and RNA for subsequent analysis. In contrast to standard PCR, [digital PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/video/fluigent-expertise/microfluidics-in-droplet-digital-pcr/) (dPCR) divides the sample into subsamples in the pico- to nanoliter range, allowing for more reliable collection and more sensitive measurement of nucleic acid quantities.
For example, Ahrberg *et al.* have developed an easy-to-use microfluidic dPCR device to amplify and quantify complementary deoxyribonucleic acid (cDNA) samples for the H7N9 influenza virus.5 In another study, researchers from the California Institute of Technology and MIT developed a microfluidic dPCR approach to physically link single bacterial cells harvested from a natural environment with a viral marker gene for examining virus-bacterium interactions in many different environments.6
[Application of a surfactant for digital PCR](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/analysis-of-a-commercial-surfactant-for-digital-pcr/)
### In-vitro cell analysis in vaccine research
Cell culture is at the center of many biological experiments, as it is the first step in most [in-vitro analyses](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/). The conditions in which the cells are cultivated determine the culture’s growth potential, protein secretion, and cell-cell signaling, and bulk cultures sometimes fail to effectively control these parameters.
[Microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/research/applications/cell-analysis/) provide unique capabilities to control the cellular microenvironment and present cells with mechanical and biochemical signals in a more physiologically relevant context. [Microfluidic chips](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/microfluidic-chips/how-to-choose-a-microfluidic-chip/) offer an ideal microenvironment to study the molecular- and cellular-scale activities that underlie human organ function and identify new therapeutic targets in vitro. For instance, Markus et al. used microfluidic cell culture chambers to analyze the hosting of varicella-zoster virus in human embryonic stem cell-derived neurons.7
[
### Aria, An Automated Perfusion System
Platform for Spatial Omics
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/aria/)
[
### High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
High Throughput Cell Perfusion Pack
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/organ-on-a-chip-perfusion-package-high-throughput/)
## **References**
1. World Health Oganization. Global vaccine market report. 14 p (2019).
2. Luthando Dziba, Isabel Sousa Pinto, Judith Fisher, K. T. IPBES Workshop on biodiversity and pandemics. (2020).
3. Konishi, N. *et al.* Synthesis of Bisdesmosidic Oleanolic Acid Saponins via a Glycosylation-Deprotection Sequence under Continuous Microfluidic/Batch Conditions. *J. Org. Chem.* **82**, 6703–6719 (2017).
4. Chaipan, C. *et al.* Single-Virus Droplet Microfluidics for High-Throughput Screening of Neutralizing Epitopes on HIV Particles. *Cell Chem. Biol.* **24**, 751-757.e3 (2017).
5. Ahrberg, C. D., Lee, J. M. & Chung, B. G. Microwell Array-based Digital PCR for Influenza Virus Detection. *Biochip J.* **13**, 269–276 (2019).
6. Arbel D. Tadmor, Elizabeth A. Ottesen, Jared R. Leadbetter, and R. P. Probing Individual Environmental Bacteria for Viruses by Using Microfluidic Digital PCR. *Science (80-. ).* **23**, 1–7 (2012).
7. Markus, A., Lebenthal-Loinger, I., Yang, I. H., Kinchington, P. R. & Goldstein, R. S. An In Vitro Model of Latency and Reactivation of Varicella Zoster Virus in Human Stem Cell-Derived Neurons. *PLoS Pathog.* **11**, 1–22 (2015).
## Related content
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidic Droplet Production Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidic-droplet-production-method/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
---
### [F-OEM User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/f-oem-user-manual/)
**Published:** June 16, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [NIFS Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/nifs-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [P-OEM Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/p-oem-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [F-OEM Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/f-oem-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Fluigent PX Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/fluigent-px-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Capillary electrophoresis using microfluidic, electrophoretic, and optic modules](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/capillary-electrophoresis-using-microfluidic-electrophoretic-and-optic-modules/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
## What is capillary electrophoresis (CE)?
The capillary electrophoretic method is an analytical technique that **separates ions based on their *electrophoretic mobility*** with the use of an applied voltage. The *electrophoretic mobility* is dependent upon the charge of the molecule, the viscosity, and the atom’s radius. The rate at which the particle moves is directly proportional to the applied electric field–the greater the field strength, the faster the mobility. Neutral species are not affected, only ions move with the electric field. If two ions are the same size, the one with greater charge will move the fastest. For ions of the same charge, the smaller particle has less friction and overall faster migration rate (1).
## Which method is used in this type of electrophoresis?
There are many methods under the umbrella term of capillary electrophoresis such as; capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE), capillary gel electrophoresis (CGE), micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MEKC), capillary electrochromatography (CEC), capillary isoelectric focusing (CIEF), and capillary isotachophoresis (CITP). While all methods possess unique processes, these all work on the same basic principle. All techniques use an electric current to move molecules through a tube (a capillary) (1).
Currently, there are several robust and highly automated commercial benchtop instruments available for CE. However, these systems are very expensive and cumbersome, and therefore inaccessible for academic research. Consequently, home-built CE has been implemented to meet the urgent demand for affordable and simple analytical devices. Simple EC systems with siphon injection have been implemented, requiring only a high-voltage (HV) module, a capillary, and vials. However, the injection mode is not reproducible and manual washing with plastic syringes carries a high risk of sample contamination. More advanced CE systems are available, but often require electronic and mechanical expertise (2).
In order to improve the popularity of Capillary electrophoresis, the Institut Galien Paris Saclay (Paris Saclay University) has endeavored to develop an easy-to-build, high-performance CE system, a “Lego CE”, consisting of off-the-shelf electrophoretic and [microfluidic modules](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/) , including [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). Using a laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detector, the device is able to effectively separate labeled oligosaccharides, as demonstrated.
## What is capillary electrophoretic technology used for?
After almost 40 years of development and instrument commercialization, e*lectrophoretic mobility* based system is now among established analytical techniques and becomes the method of choice for several classes of analytes, notably DNA, glycans, therapeutic proteins, chiral molecules, and inorganic ions (2).
Capillary electrophoretic separation has a wide range of applications in a variety of fields including:
**Forensics – In forensics, CE is used to analyze all types of evidence collected from crime scenes and is the preferred method for investigating post-blast and gunshot residues and low levels of explosives.**
**Pharmaceuticals – CE has multiple applications in the pharmaceutical field. It is used to determine target proteins and the structure and purity of a sample, which are critical factors in drug development. It is also used in chiral separations, which is integral to the development of new drugs that may be safer and more effective.**
**Medical – Clinical applications of CE include diagnosis of blood disorders, therapeutic drug monitoring, and detection of several inherited genetic disorders such as mitochondrial heteroplasmy, cystic fibrosis, spinocerebellar ataxia, and fragile X. It is also used to identify gene polymorphisms associated with cancer diagnosis and to determine the best treatment strategies.**
**Industrial– In the industrial sector, Capillary electrophoresis is used to analyze various products such as food additives, animal nutrition, detergents, and herbicide.**
## How to perform capillary electrophoresis with the Lego CE system?
*Figure 1 Schematic drawing of Lego CE design GND Ground electrode HV high voltage*
[
### Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Microfluidic Low Pressure Generator
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-sources/flpg-plus/)
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Flow EZ™
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
[
### Microfluidic Pressurized Fluid Reservoirs
Pressurized fluid reservoirs
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/sample-reservoirs/fluiwell-series/)
### Additional materials
- (Laser-Induced Fluorescence Detector) LIF module
- Electrophoresis module
- Background electrolyte
- Analyte
## Partial results
*Figure 2: Electropherograms for CE-LIF* separations of oligosaccharide *ladders using the Lego CE-LIF instrument; hydrodynamic injection at 50 mbar over 10s. A) Without pressure assistance; B) With pressure assistance at 30 mbar from t = 0s; C) With pressure gradient: 30 mbar at t = 0s, then 20 mbar at t = 5 min1*
### Separation and detection of APTS labelled oligosaccharides
Glucose-oligosaccharides are often used as the ladder reference for analyzing N-glycans released from glycoproteins, serving for quality control of therapeutic glycoproteins and diagnostic purposes (3, 4).
The Lego CE-LIF was used for *separations of APTS-labelled oligosaccharides*. Figure 3 shows the electropherograms obtained without pressure assistance (figure 3A), using pressure assistance of 30 mbar t = 0 s (figure 3B), and [using pressure assistance](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/concepts-and-physics-of-microfluidics/microfluidic-flow-control-technologies-strengths-and-weaknesses/) of 30 mbar at t=0 s and 20 mbar at t = 5 min (figure 3C).
We can observe that excellent peak shapes and separation resolutions are achieved for glucose units GU1 till GU6. To compensate for the peak retardation when using beta-alanine/MES BGE, pressure assistance can be applied during electrophoresis, which is not difficult when using the [Flow EZ pressure controller](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/). As we can see in figure 3B, the peaks arrived faster to the detector and more glucose units could be visualized under the pressure assistance at 30 mbar. To finely tune the electrophoresis, it is also possible to use a pressure gradient. By applying a pressure of 30 mbar at 0s and then 20 mbar at 5 min, the fast arrival of the first four peaks could be maintained, whereas separation resolution for the slower ones, which could correspond to the sizes of large N-glycans of glycoproteins, was improved (see figure 3C).
## Conclusion
A new Lego CE, that can be fully constructed using commercially-available products, was successfully developed. The need for electronic and mechanical skills, which is often a barrier for constructing in-house Capillary electrophoresis, is remarkably reduced. The great functioning of this system was demonstrated by separating and detecting fluorescent oligosaccharides. By using pressure assistance provided by the [Fluigent instruments](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/), it is possible to accelerate the detection, while keeping a good separation between each peak. Additional experiments have been performed using this system, including testing of different electrolyte, comparing the performance with a commercial capillary electrophoresis system. All these results and more information concerning this Lego CE system can be found in the great paper written by Liénard-Mayor *et. Al (1).* The Lego design would allow the users to setup their own analytical devices at a cost at least 70 % cheaper than the purchase price of a commercial system while keeping a high degree of standardization (i.e. a ‘standard’ setup) and facilitation of technology transfer that are not offered by in-house-made versions.
### References
1. Li, Sam. Capillary Electrophoresis: Principles, Practice, and Applications. Journal of Chromatography Library; Elsevier Science Publishers: The Netherlands, 1992; Vol 52.
2. Théo Liénard-Mayor, Jasmine S. Furter, Myriam Taverna, Hung Viet Pham, Peter C. Hauser, T. D. M. Modular instrumentation for capillary electrophoresis with laser induced fluorescence detection using plug-and-play microfluidic, electrophoretic and optic modules. *Anal. Chim. Acta* **1135**, (2020).
3. Zhang, P. *et al.* Challenges of glycosylation analysis and control: An integrated approach to producing optimal and consistent therapeutic drugs. *Drug Discov. Today* **21**, 740–765 (2016).
4. Hu, M., Lan, Y., Lu, A., Ma, X. & Zhang, L. *Glycan-based biomarkers for diagnosis of cancers and other diseases: Past, present, and future*. *Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science* vol. 162 (Elsevier Inc., 2019).
## Related content
- [
### Flow EZ™
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
- [
### Microfluidics for Pharmaceutical Applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/pharmaceutics/)
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### Microfluidics in Life Science
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/life-science/)
- [
### Microfluidics in Food Industry: Food Testing & Agriculture
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/markets-applications/food-testing-agriculture/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [Reservoir Mixer User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/reservoir-mixer/)
**Published:** May 24, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Reservoir Mixer Technical Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/reservoir-mixer/)
**Published:** May 24, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [FS Series Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/fs-series-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [M-X Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/m-x-valve-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [L-X Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/l-x-valve-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [RX Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/rx-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Aria Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/aria-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [2-X Technical Specifications](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/2-x-specifications/)
**Published:** May 10, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Omi Fluigent Technical Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/omi-fluigent-technical-datasheet/)
**Published:** March 16, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Omi Fluigent User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/omi-fluigent-user-manual/)
**Published:** March 16, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [M-SWITCH™ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/m-switch-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 11, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [FLOW UNIT+ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-plus-datasheet/)
**Published:** July 29, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Digital High-speed Camera User's Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/digital-high-speed-camera-users-manual/)
**Published:** February 7, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [NIFS - Non Invasive Flow Sensor Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/nifs-non-invasive-flow-sensor-datasheet/)
**Published:** December 19, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [NIFS - Non Invasive Flow Sensor User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/nifs-non-invasive-flow-sensor-user-manual/)
**Published:** December 19, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Droplet starter package datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/droplet-starter-package-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Droplet Starter Package User's Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/droplet-starter-package-users-manual/)
**Published:** January 9, 2023
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [OEM Case Study: Microfluidic Drug Screening](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/oem-microfluidic-drug-screening/)
**Published:** September 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
> **“*Fluigent’s expertise enabled us to completely change the scale of our microfluidic protocols, from the Ph.D. student experiment to the fully automated and parallelized workflow available for anyone. In addition to accompanying us in this process with their ideas and multi-disciplinary skills, Fluigent’s support and responsiveness are first class!*“**
>
> Anonymous Customer
## The challenge of turning a lab bench microfluidic system into a commercial device
The customer developed **a lab bench microfluidic system for automated microfluidic drug screening** on cells cultured on a microfluidic chip dedicated to research use. The system consisted of several components, including custom-made microfluidic cards, pressure source, [pressure-based flow controllers](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/customized-products/f-oem/ "Modular pressure & flow control platform"), and [microfluidic valves](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/standard-industrial-components/microfluidic-valves-2/ "microfluidic valves") for **automated fluidic handling** and parallelization.
As this ground-breaking microfluidic system provides many benefits compared to existing laboratory automation, the group of researchers launched their own company to provide a solution based on their microfluidic system.
The main challenge the group faced was to start from a multi-component lab bench system that is not suited for the industry (lengthy training, unoptimized process times, robustness, and a large footprint) and obtain a compact, user-friendly, and optimized device that is more user friendly with automation capabilities for **microfluidic drug screening**.
The group collaborated with Fluigent to design and build a [custom system](https://www.fluigent.com/industrial/industrial-products/full-customization/) that meets their customers needs.
## Fluigent expertise for industrializing your automated microfluidic solution
In collaboration with the client, Fluigent’s engineering team helped to create a compact, turnkey solution while meeting all bio-chemical specifications.
- **Mechanical integration:** [Bubble formation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-bubbles-using-the-raydrop/ "Generation of bubbles using the RayDrop") is a known challenge in the microflow regime. Fluigent experts consider reliability risks when designing the fluidic architecture, for example, to minimize risks of bubble formation and allow the operator to focus fully on their application.
- **Software integration:** Integrating various components in a centrally controlled system comes with the challenges of operating multiple firmwares simultaneously. Fluigent software capabilities helped integrate non-fluidic components (optical instrumentation) to communicate with the machine control systems.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [PRESSURE UNIT User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/pressure-unit-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 13, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Cell Encapsulation Platform User's Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/cell-encapsulation-platform-users-manual/)
**Published:** November 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Cell encapsulation platform Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/cell-encapsulation-platform-datasheet/)
**Published:** October 27, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [PRESSURE UNIT Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/pressure-unit-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 13, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Fluigent Flow-Rate Platform User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fluigent-flow-rate-platform-user-manual/)
**Published:** September 30, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Aria technical datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/aria-technical-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [PLGA Nanoparticle Production Station Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/plga-nanoparticle-production-station-datasheet/)
**Published:** September 26, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [LineUp™ series User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/lineup-series-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 3, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Recirculation Package Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/recirculation-package-datasheet/)
**Published:** August 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Immunostaining Package Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/immunostaining_package_datasheet/)
**Published:** August 24, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [PLGA Microparticle production station Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/plga-microparticle-production-station-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 13, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Good practice guide PLGA station](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/good-practice-guide-plga-station/)
**Published:** January 19, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Datasheet Pack Alginate](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/datasheet-pack-alginate/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Alginate user manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/alginate-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [FS series Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/fs-series-datasheet/)
**Published:** July 22, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Safety Datasheet FS series](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/safety-datasheet/safety-datasheet-fs-series/)
**Published:** July 22, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Safety datasheet
---
### [Raydrop double emulsions protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/raydrop-double-emulsions-protocol/)
**Published:** January 9, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [FLPG Plus User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flpg-plus-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 13, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Complex emulsion production platform datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/complex-emulsion-production-platform-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 9, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [OxyGEN User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/oxygen-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [MFCS™-EX Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/mfcs-ex-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [MFCS™-EZ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/mfcs-ez-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [datasheet dSurf](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/datasheet-dsurf/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [FLOW UNIT Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-unit-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Educational Packages datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/educational-packages-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Micropipette aspiration package datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/micropipette-aspiration-package-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [SWITCH EZ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/switch-ez-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Push-Pull Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/push-pull-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Flow EZ™ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flow-ez-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 3, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [P-SWITCH Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/p-switch-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Double emulsions station datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/double-emulsions-station-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [dSurf Safety datasheet 1](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/safety-datasheet/dsurf-safety-datasheet-1/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Safety datasheet
---
### [Safety datasheet dSurf 2](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/safety-datasheet/safety-datasheet-dsurf-2/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Safety datasheet
---
### [Safety datasheet dSurf 2](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/safety-datasheet/safety-datasheet-dsurf-2-2/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Safety datasheet
---
### [Drop-seq protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/drop-seq-protocol/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Macosko Drop-seq article](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/macosko-drop-seq-article/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [McCarroll Drop-seq protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/mccarroll-drop-seq-protocol/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [FCS2 Chamber temperature instructions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fcs2-chamber-temperature-instructions/)
**Published:** January 9, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [FCS2 Chamber instructions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/fcs2-chamber-instructions/)
**Published:** January 9, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Compact Pressure Source User Manual & Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/compact-pressure-source-user-manual-datasheet/)
**Published:** February 1, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual, Safety datasheet
---
### [Fluigent product icons & images](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/fluigent-product-icons-images/fluigent-product-icons-images/)
**Published:** January 18, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
[Image package](https://www.fluigent.com/app/uploads/2022/01/fluigent-image-kit.zip)
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Media Kit product icons & images
---
### [Raydrop single emulsion datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/raydrop-single-emulsion-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 8, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [RX Pressure Source Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/rx-pressure-source-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [P-OEM Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/p-oem-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 11, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [L-SWITCH™ Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/l-switch-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 11, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [FLPG Plus Datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/flpg-plus-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 13, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Drop-seq package datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/drop-seq-package-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [BE-DoubleFlow Standard datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-doubleflow-standard-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [BE-flow datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-flow-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [BE-Transflow datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-transflow-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [BE-Gradient datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/be-gradient-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [EZ-drop datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/ez-drop-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [Drop-seq chip datasheet](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/technical-datasheets/drop-seq-chip-datasheet/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent Products Datasheets
---
### [P-SWITCH User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/p-switch-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [SWITCH EZ User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/switch-ez-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [MFCS™ series User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/mfcs-series-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Flow-Rate Platform User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/flow-rate-platform-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 6, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Easy Switch Solutions User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/easy-switch-solutions-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 11, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Software Development Kit User Manual](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/software-development-kit-user-manual/)
**Published:** January 11, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
### [Pressure predictions for lab-on-a-chip operations using a microfluidic network solver and Fluigent PX](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/pressure-predictions-for-lab-on-a-chip-operations-using-a-microfluidic-network-solver-and-fluigent-px/)
**Published:** January 10, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidic Application Notes
---
### [INDEX | H2020 European project](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/funded-research-program-participation/index-h2020-european-project/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## **Introduction**
INDEX: Integrated nanoparticle isolation and detection system for complete on-chip analysis of exosomes
The aim of the European Union’s Horizon H2020 project, INDEX () is to isolate and characterize exosomes available in body fluids through development and integration of novel technological breakthroughs. Index gathers 6 partners from all around the world: National research Council of Italy (Italy), Boston University (United States), Institut Curie (France), Region Nordjylland (Denmark), Fluigent SA (France), Hansabiomed (Estonia).
Exosomes are biological vesicles (30-100 nm) known to mediate communication between cells. They hold great promise to revolutionize the standard of diagnostic and clinical care as they exert significant roles in various pathologies such as cancer, infectious and neurodegenerative diseases. They have emerged in recent years as *biomarkers of the future* for non-invasive disease diagnostics. However, both their isolation and characterization still remain a challenge due to their small size. To tackle this issue, [INDEX](http://www.indexproject.eu/) aims at developing innovative microfluidic and optical methods to extract and analyse exosomes. The final objective of the project is to conceive a unique apparatus which automates the entire analytical process directly from patient samples.
In the last stage of the project, this equipment will be installed at [Aalbord University Hospital](https://aalborguh.rn.dk/) and validated using patient plasma samples.
## **Capture and release of exosomes from human plasma.**
Fluigent has the responsibility to integrate experiments performed on lab bench into a final ‘one-button operation’ instrument. This integration step is essential to make the technology accessible to non-microfluidic experts and to perform a diagnostic process in hospital. The extraction of exosomes from human plasma was the first procedure integrated into an automated microfluidic platform by Fluigent. The resulting apparatus will be presented at the end of this section.
The extraction approach combines immuno-extraction and fluidized bed (FB) technology which was developed by [Institut Curie](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/multiscale-physics-biology-chemistry/umr168-physical-chemistry/team-descroix/) (France). It involves a miniaturized FB device in which magnetic and drag forces are balanced to keep in suspension antibody-functionalized magnetic beads in a microfluidic chamber while the sample is passed through (Fig.1A). For capture, specific antibodies were grafted at the surface of magnetic beads by an original approach developed by the [Institute of Chemistry of Molecular Recognition](http://www.icrm.cnr.it/) (ICRM). To capture the exosomes present in the plasma sample, the grafted beads were first introduced to the chip and the sample was then continuously injected in the FB chamber (Fig. 1B, step 1). The dynamic equilibrium created between the drag and magnetic forces allowed an effective mixing of the beads which expanded the capture efficiency by 40% compared to traditional extraction methods in tubes. Following the capture step, a specific release step was optimized to retrieve the exosomes from the functionalized beads (Fig. 1B, step 2).
***Figure 1** Left Principle of micro Fluidized Bed Right FB methodology for capture and release of exosomes from human plasma*
## **The initial microfluidic platform**
To perform the exosome extraction protocol described above, a microfluidic platform was installed at [Institut Curie](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/multiscale-physics-biology-chemistry/umr168-physical-chemistry/team-descroix/) as shown in Figure 2. The set up includes up to 7 different functions (Fig. 2):
- Temperature control system
- Pressure controller
- Imaging system by using an optical microscope
- PC module with software
- Fluidized bed chip and magnet
- Flow rate controller
- Reservoirs support
***Figure 2** Left Overview of the microfluidic platform installed at Institut Curie including the different functions Right Focus on the chip flow controllers and reservoirs dotted portion in Fig 2A*
### **The integrated system fot automate exosomes isolation**
***Figure 3** Left Integrated system to automate exosomes isolation and Right the dedicated software*
The Fluigent R&D team integrated the individual units on a single user-friendly automated prototype Fig.3). The objectives were the following:
- To make the technology accessible to untrained users
- To develop ‘a ready to use instrument’
- To reduce the total footprint of the set up
- To make the system transportable
- To facilitate the automation of protocols by the development of a dedicated and intuitive software package
Proper operation of the instrument was validated by the[ Institut Curie](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/multiscale-physics-biology-chemistry/umr168-physical-chemistry/team-descroix/) (France). The system is currently being tested at [National research Council of Italy](http://www.cnr.it) (Italy) to validate the efficiency of specific antibodies to isolate different types of exosomes. The instrument will then be installed at [Aalbord University Hospital](https://aalborguh.rn.dk/) to perform diagnostic testing on patient plasma samples.
[**Image courtesy of Araya Farias Monica, MMBM team, Institut Curie**](https://science.institut-curie.org/research/multiscale-physics-biology-chemistry/umr168-physical-chemistry/team-descroix/)
For more information and updates visit: [www.indexproject.eu/](http://www.indexproject.eu/)
**Catégories de ressource:** Funded Research Program
---
### [Funded research program participation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/funded-research-program-participation/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** adam
**Content:**
## **MIMLIVER ON CHIP**
MIMLIVER on CHIP project coordinated by the laboratory of Biomechanics and Bioengineering from UTC/CNRS aims at developing a functional liver-on-chip system to evaluate the toxicity of drugs. It is motivated by the established observation that 90% of potential drug candidates fail in clinical trials due to the lack of relevant models in the early drug development stages. The Liver is a central organ for toxicology assessment as it metabolizes the drugs into compounds that can be more active than the parent drug itself. Prior to being metabolized by hepatocytes, drugs are first filtered across an endothelial barrier which is typical of the liver. This selective barrier loses its properties in pathological conditions.
## MIMLIVER on CHIP project Kick Off
- October 18, 2019
Fluigent and our collaborators are pleased to announce that the 1.5 M€ project: MIMLIVER on CHIP has been funded by the French National Research Agency.
This project coordinated by the laboratory of Biomechanics and Bioengineering from UTC/CNRS aims at developing a functional liver-on-chip system to evaluate the toxicity of drugs.
This project is motivated by the established observation that 90% of potential drug candidates fail in clinical trials due to the lack of relevant models in the early drug development stages. The Liver is a central organ for toxicology assessment as it metabolizes the drugs into compounds that can be more active than the parent drug itself. Prior to being metabolized by hepatocytes, drugs are first filtered across an endothelial barrier which is typical of the liver. This selective barrier loses its properties in pathological conditions.
In order to produce more reliable results in preclinical development, the MIMLIVERonCHIP project aims at developing the first in vitro model that reproduces both the liver and its associated vascular system.
Participating in this project are 4 partners with complementary expertise:
- The laboratory of Biomechanics and Bioengineering who have already developed and validated a liver on chip model. They will lead the development the endothelial cell chip and its connection to the liver chip.
- The Laboratory of Integrated Micro Mechatronic Systems who have strong expertise in endothelial cells, angiogenesis and vascular networks. They will grow primary endothelial cells and drive their growth into a relevant cell layer representative of the liver’s vascularisation.
- HCS Pharma is a CRO specialized in the development of innovative 2D and 3D cellular models for pharmacology and toxicology. They will validate the final liver-on-chip model by evaluating the effect of known substances and benchmark it with existing techniques.
- Fluigent will develop an automated instrument that will meet pharma standards in terms of throughput, automation, connection, compactness and ease of use.
The kick-off meeting took place on the 3rd of October. This project is very innovative and we expect to find significant results on the co-culture of the hepatocytes and LSEC (Liver Specific Endothelial Cells) on our way to the final report.
### **MYOCHIP FETOPEN PROJECT**
The aim of the MyoChip project is to build a 3D human skeletal muscle irrigated by vasculature and innervated by neurons. The reconstituted 3D muscle will mirror the architecture and function found in vivo, namely in shape, contractility and microenvironment, while irrigation by a vascular network and innervation by human motor neurons will bring additional physiologic pertinence to it. This organ-on-a-chip technology will have numerous applications including but not limited to research on muscle building and aging, drug testing and screening, as well as prosthetics and biorobotics. The feasibility of the project relies on the interdisciplinary approach which joins a team of cell biologists, material engineers, experts in microfluidics and mathematical modellers. The architecture of skeletal muscle and its regenerative capabilities make muscle a prime candidate to push the 3D tissue engineering field. As such the project will lay the technical, material and methodological foundations to tackle the next generation of complex organ-on-a-chip systems that the MyoChip consortium can exploit for the generation of highly complex 3D in vitro systems of many organs.
[Project website](https://myochip.imm.medicina.ulisboa.pt/#homepage)
[Project updated](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertises/expertise-reviews/funded-research-program-participation/myochip-h2020-european-project/)
## **BIO-ART LUNG 2020**
The BIOART-LUNG 2020 project aims to develop a long term, autonomous, portable, artificial lung for patients suffering from acute respiratory distress. This innovative therapeutic approach will provide 2 major advantages compared to existing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation:
- Portable device that will increase mobility of patients while waiting for lung transplantation surgery
- Physiologically relevant device which would reduce blood activation and extended blood oxygenation above the current three weeks limitation.
To validate intermediate steps, Fluigent has conceived, developed and made a customized fluidic platform connected to the device that integrates all the functions the final system will have. This fully automated platform allows for testing of the devices under realistic conditions.
[Project website](https://www.bioartlung.com/)
## **HOLIFAB**
Microfluidics is currently faced with 2 main difficulties:
- A considerable hindrance to fast prototyping and industrialisation, because system performances rely on complex selection and assembly of numerous fluidic, mechanic, optical, electronic (etc…) components,
- A complex process for setting the system requirements, because constraints and specifications of microfluidic systems cover a huge range in terms of complexity level, materials, dimensions, acceptable costs, without any standardisation and rationalisation of design and production.
The HoliFAB project aims at overcoming these difficulties **with a holistic system-oriented and problem-solving approach**, starting from the customer’s need, optimising the chip and addressing the question of its environment.
HoliFAB **change of paradigm** implies:
- **A holistic approach at the instrument level:** Providing new methods and production tools to instruments manufacturers and new generation of applications to users,
- **A holistic approach for the chip production:** Using a technology-agnostic strategy integrating both 3D printing and injection moulding technologies for the design of the microfluidic chip.
[Project website](https://holifab.eu/)
### **INDEX**
The aim of Project INDEX is to isolate and characterize nanoparticles available in bodily fluids through development and integration of novel technological breakthroughs. The technology will enable the analysis of clinically valuable nanoparticles called exosomes towards new generation diagnostics. Exosomes are known to mediate communication between cells and their effective utilization holds a great promise of revolutionizing the standard of clinical care. However, their detection and molecular profiling is technically challenging. The proposed technology will isolate exosomes that are as small as 30nm in diameter from human plasma with high purity, and provide in-depth, multi-parameter characterization of the particles through digital counting, size determination, and biological phenotyping.
Towards this goal: (1) Novel microfluidics will be developed and used for efficient magnetic enrichment; (2) Isolated particles will be detected and analyzed with a novel biological nanoparticle (BNP) sensor (3) Immune-capture and release chemistries as well as phenotyping assays will be developed; (4) Critically, complete on-chip integration of isolation, detection and analysis will be accomplished; (5) Utility of in-depth exosome characterization will be demonstrated with clinical samples for lung cancer.
Project INDEX requires successful integration of multiple sub-units and assays that each represents technological frontiers, which is extremely challenging. However, the breadth of information on exosomes that will be available with the integrated system is unmatched. Although, the clinical utility of exosomes is still developing, the uncertainty can only be clarified through automated technologies that provide latitude of information. Once completed, Project INDEX can demonstrate a new paradigm in cancer diagnostics, and also present a potential future technology for other applications involving nanoparticles.
[Project website](http://www.indexproject.eu/)
[Development of the microfluidic platform](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertises/expertise-reviews/funded-research-program-participation/index-h2020-european-project/)
## **MFMANUFACTURING**
The objective of the MFManufacturing project is to bring the manufacturing of microfluidic devices to the same level of maturity and industrialisation of electronic devices, enabling them to address more widely in the healthcare needs. Electronic devices, which have been on the market for many years, have benefited from the long going standardization of electronic components, and were therefore easily integrated in the production process of the major foundries.
The anticipated standardization in the microfluidics field – first of all aimed at strengthening Europe’s position will focus on increasing maturity of both functional and fabrication process aspects:
- Gain of maturity in MF functions focusing both on novel functional modules and their interoperability.
- Gain of maturity in manufacturing process: focusing on a distributed pilot line, on novel hybrid integration processes and on increasing maturity of some selected manufacturing processes, which have a good short term commercial perspective.
This will have an effect on availability, reliability as well as accessibility and will result in device cost reduction and improved time-to market. These conditions will enable large scale uptake of microfluidic devices in the markets identified.
**Catégories de ressource:** Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
---
### [Contact support](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/contact-support/)
**Published:** January 12, 2022
**Author:**
**Catégories de ressource:** Support & Tools
---
### [The Micro/Nano Bioelectronics and Biosensors (MBIOS) from Tianjin University](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/success-story-micronano-bioelectronics-biosensors/)
**Published:** January 7, 2022
**Author:**
**Content:**
> **”The Fluigent gas pressure pump allowed us to inject our sample solutions under constant pressure which guarantees highly accurate resistive pulse sensing measurement.”**
>
> Prof. Xuexin Duan – Tianjin University, Department of Precision Instrument Engineering
## Micro-and nanofluidics for biosensor applications
Lab-On-a-Chip (LoC) devices are advantageous as they can offer a wide range of analysis tools from cells to molecules (for instance, based on mechanical, electrical, and fluorescence properties). In this context, the MBIOS group develops micro/nanofluidic-based biosensor devices. They have the advantages of **high surface-to-volume ratio**, **high sensitivity, low sample consumption, label-free detections, low cost and, high throughput.**
## Cells/particles detection and characterization
In a previous work, Han *et al.* fabricated an electrical impedance flow cytometry device based on microfluidics with a constrictied microchannel to simultaneously characterize the mechanical and electrical properties of single plant cells1. This allowed them to analyze cell structure and content in a label-free manner. Later on, a similar resistive pulse sensing device was embedded into a much smaller nanochannel (nanochannel-RPS), which enabled **label-free quantification of plasmid DNAs and exosomes** with **high sensitivity**2. These devices are fabricated with CMOS compatible processes, which facilitate mass production while maintaining high performance for the analysis of various cells and bionanoparticles.
## References
1. Han, Z., Chen, L., Zhang, S., Wang, J. & Duan, X. Label-Free and Simultaneous Mechanical and Electrical Characterization of Single Plant Cells Using Microfluidic Impedance Flow Cytometry. *Anal. Chem.* **92**, 14568–14575 (2020).
2. Han, Z., Liu, J., Liu, Z., Pan, W., Yang, Y., Chen X., Gao, Y. & Duan, X. Resistive Pulse Sensing Device with Embedded Nanochannel (nanochannel-RPS) for Label-free Biomolecule and Bionanoparticle Analysis. *Nanotechnology* 1284443, (2021)
MBIOS group website: [www.tjumbios.com](http://www.tjumbios.com)
## Precise flow control for biosensor applications
Our MFCS-EZ was used to continuously inject cells and bioparticles into the micro/nanofluidic device using constant pressure. Using the FASTAB™ microfluidic patented technology, the MFCS™-EZ generates a constant pressure-driven flow rate that allows for reliable and repeatable experiments.
**Catégories de ressource:** Microfluidics Case Studies
---
### [Double emulsions protocol](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/support-tools/downloads/user-manuals/double-emulsions-protocol/)
**Published:** January 5, 2022
**Author:** bruno
**Catégories de ressource:** Fluigent products manual
---
## Events
### [20 Years of Microfluidics. Your Work in the Spotlight](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/20-years-of-microfluidics/)
**Published:** May 4, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
The Fluigent 2026 Scientific Challenge has successfully concluded, celebrating innovative applications of microfluidics across research and industry.
---
## About the Challenge
Fluigent invited researchers, engineers, and scientists worldwide to participate in its Scientific Challenge Campaign, aimed at showcasing emerging applications using Fluigent technologies.
The initiative provided participants with an opportunity to share their work with a global scientific audience, gain visibility within the microfluidics community, and be recognized for their innovation.
### Participation Overview
Participants were asked to submit a short description of their use case, highlighting how Fluigent systems contributed to their research or application. Submissions were evaluated based on:
- Scientific relevance
- Innovation
- Clarity of the use case
- Demonstrated impact of Fluigent technologies
The high quality and diversity of submissions reflected the strength of the global microfluidics community.
## 🏆 Awards and Recognition
As part of Fluigent’s 20-year anniversary, selected projects were recognized for their contribution to advancing microfluidics and awarded Fluigent vouchers.
The winners are:
🥉Third Prize
Reagent-Free Acoustofluidic Bacterial Lysis Enabled by Fluigent Pressure-Driven Flow Control
Maryam Hasani and collaborators
IFW Dresden / SAW Lab Saxony / TU Dresden / Macquarie University
🥈Second Prize
Measuring the Viscosity of Life: Pressure-Controlled Aspiration Reveals a Conserved Mechanical Transition in Embryonic Yolk Across 250 Million Years of Insect Evolution
Sameer Thukral and collaborators
RIKEN Center for Biosystems Dynamics Research, Kobe, Japan
🥇 First Prize
Optofluidic Photoporation of CAR-T Cells
Dina Zentout
Université de Lille — PhLAM UMR 8523 / IEMN UMR 8520
## Impact and Acknowledgment
Selected participants gained visibility across Fluigent’s marketing and scientific communications, contributing to the promotion of real-world applications of microfluidic technologies.
Fluigent extends its congratulations to the winners and sincere thanks to all participants. The submitted projects demonstrated remarkable innovation and scientific excellence.
The company remains committed to supporting and showcasing advances in microfluidics across both research and industry.
Inspired by these projects? Share your work with us, get in touch to collaborate, learn more about our solutions, or benefit from a free consultation with our microfluidics specialists.
[Contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Terms & Conditions
- Submissions must be original and based on real use cases
- Fluigent reserves the right to use submitted content for communication purposes (with prior agreement of the authors)
- Participants must ensure they have the rights to share any data or images submitted
---
### [Webinar-Spheroid Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads Using Microfluidics ](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-spheroid/)
**Published:** March 16, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 🎥 Missed the live session?
You can now access the webinar replay and learn how **microfluidics can enable monodispersed alginate microbeads,** high cell viability, and controlled spheroid growth in 3D environments.
[](https://youtu.be/jWey8bL9MQU)
**Encapsulating cells in alginate microbeads** provides controlled microenvironments for **multicellular spheroid formation** and advanced 3D cell culture.
In this webinar, our experts present a **microfluidic method** to generate **highly monodisperse alginate microbeads**. Using a non-embedded co-flow focusing microfluidic setup, this approach forms double emulsions with an alginate core and a sacrificial oil shell, enabling uniform gelation and high cell viability.
This strategy allows **reproducible bead production** without complex chip engineering, making microfluidic spheroid encapsulation accessible to standard biology laboratories.
## What Was Covered
✅ How to produce highly monodisperse alginate microbeads using microfluidic droplet generation
Discover the principles of microfluidic bead formation and how RayDrop technology enables robust and reproducible droplet generation.
*With Dr. Adrien Dewandre*
✅ How precise flow control improves microbead size and reproducibility
Learn how pressure-based flow control allows accurate tuning of droplet size and stability across a microfluidic setup.
*With Dr. Joseph Farah*
✅ A novel microfluidic method for spheroid encapsulation in alginate microbeads
Explore a practical strategy for producing homogeneous alginate beads using double emulsions with a sacrificial oil shell, enabling efficient gelation and recovery of microbeads suitable for multicellular spheroid formation.
*With Dr. Leon Rembotte*
✅ Interactive Q&A Session
Ask your questions and discuss your experimental challenges directly with our experts.
Wide-field fluorescence images of Live/Dead stained HEK293T cells at 2, 6 and 10 days after encapsulation. Scale bars: 100 μm. (*Lab Chip* **2026**, *26* (3), 711–724)
📅 **Originally broadcast on:** March 31, 2026
## Speaker :
- **Dr. Joseph Farah**
Microfluidic Application Engineer – Fluigent
- **Dr. Adrien Dewandre**
Technology Lead, Emulsification & Droplet Generation – Secoya Technologies
- **Dr. Leon Rembotte**
BioImaging and OptoFluidics, Laboratoire Photonique, Numérique et Nanosciences, Université de Bordeaux, IOGS & CNRS
👉 Ready to improve your droplet generation system? Get the best of our expertise.
[Talk to an expert](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Explore the Related Case Study
Microfluidic Spheroid Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads Using a Sacrificial Oil-Shell Method
This [study ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mammalian-spheroid-encapsulation/ "study ")is a collaboration between Université de Bordeaux, CNRS, Université Libre de Bruxelles, and [Secoya Technologies](https://www.secoya-tech.com/), a spin-off developing lab-scale equipment for (bio)-pharmaceutical processes. Their RayDrop® microfluidic droplet generator integrates Secoya’s emulsification technology into an easy-to-use platform, enabling reproducible spheroid encapsulation and droplet generation for academic and R&D labs.
[Read the Paper](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mammalian-spheroid-encapsulation/)
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Microfluidics Case Studies### Microfluidic Spheroid Encapsulation in Alginate Microbeads Using a Sacrificial Oil-Shell Method
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/mammalian-spheroid-encapsulation/)
## Curious to find out more on our solution?
The**[ Flow EZ™ ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ " Flow EZ™ ")**is the most advanced system available for **pressure-based flow control**.
- A response time ten times faster compared to syringe pumps.
- Control flow rate with the benefits of responsive, pulse-free flow
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
The **[Complex Emulsion Production Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/ "Complex Emulsion Production Platform")** is a ready-to-use platform to perform emulsification processes such as single emulsions and double emulsions.
- Save time with an integrated, organized, ready-to-use platform
- Get monodispersed complex emulsions rapidly (down to 2% monodispersity)
- Produce **microparticle and microcapsule** for encapsulation of API or other reagents inside different materials such as polymers (**[PLGA](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/ "PLGA")**, **[UV polymerized](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/ "UV polymerized")** materials), hydrogels and more.
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
The **[RayDrop Double Emulsion Device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "RayDrop Double Emulsion Device")** specific design allows for [multiple liquid type emulsification](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/ "multiple liquid type emulsification") within the same device with **no coating needed**. The device can create both **single and complex emulsions.**
- Droplet size from 25 µm to 450µm outer diameter.
- High monodispersity (CV < 2%)
- Water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) and oil-in-water-in-oil (o/w/o) within the same device
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
## Why Explore Double Emulsion Microfluidics
[Double emulsion microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/ "Double emulsion microfluidics")—defined as a process of encapsulating droplets within other droplets—allows for a higher level containment, encapsulation, compartmentalization, and controlled delivery of biological samples or templates. This technique proves [useful in drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/ "Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine"), single cell studies, material development, or even formulating food and cosmetics.
With **precise control over release** dynamics, core size, and shell thickness, double emulsions serve as an adaptive basis for creating **complex engineered systems** designed to specific requirements.
**Interested in learning more? Discover key reviews covering into the potential and techniques behind double emulsion microfluidics**
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Alginate Microbeads Production
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [
### Webinar: Controlled UV-crosslinked microcapsule production using microfluidic technology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production/)
**Catégories d'évènement:** Webinars
---
### [Webinar - Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip: focusing on Vessel-on-Chip Models](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-importance-of-flow-in-organ-on-a-chip/)
**Published:** February 3, 2026
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
## 🎥 Missed the live session?
You can now access the webinar replay and explore the latest advancements in Organ-on-a-Chip research at your convenience.
[Access the Replay](https://youtu.be/jWey8bL9MQU)
With the increasing adoption of Organ-on-a-Chip (OOC) technologies, long-term perfusion has become essential for dynamic testing under flow conditions. This webinar explored the latest advancements in flow control for organ-on-a-chip systems, with a focus on perfusion and recirculation.
Experts from **Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC)** and **Fluigent** showcased novel methodologies for developing reliable vessel-on-chip models. The session also demonstrated how the [Fluigent Omi Organ-on-a-Chip System](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Fluigent Omi Organ-on-a-Chip System") enables unidirectional and reliable recirculation within these models.
## What Was Covered
Participants discovered state-of-the-art technologies and vessel-on-chip models, their advantages and limitations, and how flow conditions influence experimental outcomes, including:
- **Hands-on applications:** expert-led presentations of vessel-on-chip models, including a recent application note using the Fluigent Omi system.
- **Flow control and perfusion in Organ-on-a-Chip systems:** from fundamental concepts to advanced technologies, with a comparison of different flow control approaches and their benefits.
📅 **Originally broadcast on:** February 19, 2026
## Featured Talks
Researchers from the Vessel-on-Chip group brought extensive expertise in vascular modeling and precise flow control. Their work demonstrated the critical role of well-controlled, unidirectional flow in endothelial and vascular models.
- **Anel Rakhmatullina** (Application Engineer, Fluigent)
*Flow Control Technologies for Organ-on-a-Chip Modelling*
- **Dr. Valeria Orlova** (Principal Investigator, LUMC)
*3D Vessel-on-Chip Model for Studying Leukocyte Extravasation Under Flow*
[LUMC profile.](https://www.lumc.nl/en/afdelingen/anatomie-en-embryologie/orlova-group--pluripotent-stem-cells-for-vascular-differentiation-and-disease-modeling/ "LUMC profile.")
[Lab website](https://www.orlovalab.com/ "Lab website")
- **Dr. Dhanesh Kasi** (Postdoctoral Researcher, LUMC)
*hiPSC-Based Endothelial Model: Relevance of Unidirectional Flow*
## Discover Omi, Automated Organ-on-chip platform
Omi is an automated platform that helps reproduce the microphysiological behavior of organs inside microfluidic chips. It is compatible any type of chips to sustain different cell culture types or organ on chip models (Gut, Skin…)
[More information about Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## hiPSCs-derived Vascular Organ-on-Chip Model Under Unidirectional Controlled Flow
This application note demonstrates how the **Omi™ OOC platform** enables long-term, unidirectional recirculation, supporting endothelial alignment and polarization in **[Human iPSC-derived vascular model.](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/hipscs-derived-vascular-organ-on-chip/ "Human iPSC-derived vascular model.")**
The work was conducted in collaboration with Dr. Dhanesh Kasi, Dr. Hanna Lammertse, and Dr. Valeria Orlova from the Leiden Organ-on-Chip Center and the Orlova group at [Leiden University Medical Center](https://www.orlovalab.com/).
[Read the Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/hipscs-derived-vascular-organ-on-chip/)
*Figure.* *Immunofluorescence images of hiPSC-ECs cultured under static conditions, bidirectional, and unidirectional flow (using Omi).*
## More OOAC Solutions
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
## More Webinar on OOAC or Omi
- [
### Webinar – Mastering Microphysiological Precision with Omi
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-mastering-microphysiological-precision-omi/)
- [
### Webinar: Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip, featuring the Gut-on-a-Chip Model
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
- [
### Webinar – Liver–Kidney OOC Model to Investigate Drug Disposition
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-liver-kidney-ooc-model/)
## To explore further on the OOAC Platform
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
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Microfluidics Case Studies### Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
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Microfluidics Case Studies### CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
**Catégories d'évènement:** Webinars
---
### [Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
**Published:** April 30, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
Are you searching for **[better ways to generate reproducible emulsions](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)** for your research or product needs?
If challenges like inconsistent droplet size, limited reproducibility, or the need for complex surface treatments are slowing you down, this webinar is for you.
Watch the replay for a deep dive into the recent advances in **microfluidic technologies for emulsion generation**, from single droplets to complex, multi-phase structures. You will learn how to **overcome common limitations** of conventional methods with systems that make the process more accessible and efficient.
### SPEAKERS:
- **Dr. Joseph Farah**
Microfluidic Application Engineer – Fluigent
- **Dr. Adrien Dewandre**
Technology Lead, Emulsification & Droplet Generation – [Secoya Technologies ](https://www.secoya-tech.com/ "Secoya Technologies ")
- **Prof. Che-Jen Lin**
Associate Professor – [National Dong Hwa University ](https://www.bing.com/search?q=National+Dong+Hwa+University&cvid=c0bf5d13e48c4bf68534644b3bc552fc&gs_lcrp=EgRlZGdlKgYIABBFGDkyBggAEEUYOTIICAEQ6QcY_FXSAQc0MDFqMGoxqAIAsAIA&FORM=ANAB01&PC=DCTS "National Dong Hwa University ")
## What You Will Learn
✅ Explore the latest advancements in microfluidic emulsions, addressing key challenges in this field.
✅ Learn how the [RayDrop ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "RayDrop ")simplifies complex emulsion production. Review the [fundamentals of droplet generation](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/ "fundamentals of droplet generation") and the unique advantages of the RayDrop design for precise and reproducible emulsions.
*With Dr. Adrien Dewandre*
✅ **Master flow control in microfluidics** through [**FlowEZ** pressure and flow controller.](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ "FlowEZ pressure and flow controller.") Get insights in the role of flow rate in controlling droplet size and uniformity. Learn how our solutions maintain precise control over flow conditions across the microfluidic setup.
*With Dr. Joseph Farah*
✅ Learn about the production and application of **fluorescent complex emulsions** for real-time analyte detection. Prof. Lin will present a **[proof-of-concept study ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/complex-emulsions/ "proof-of-concept study ")**demonstrating **how droplet morphological changes** can be used **to monitor iodine content**. This highlights the potential of complex emulsions in fluid-based chemical and biological sensing.
*With Prof. Che-Jen Lin*
✅ **Interactive Q&A Session**
Have questions or challenges? Join our live Q&A session, where our experts will provide solutions and insights.
[](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/complex-emulsions/)*Fig Microfluidic Control of Complex Emulsions for Chemical Sensing*
[Read the full customer case study](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/complex-emulsions/)
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Microfluidics Case Studies### Microfluidic Control of Complex Emulsions for Chemical Sensing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/complex-emulsions/)
## Curious to find out more on our solution?
The**[ Flow EZ™ ](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/ " Flow EZ™ ")**is the most advanced system available for **pressure-based flow control**.
- A response time ten times faster compared to syringe pumps.
- Control flow rate with the benefits of responsive, pulse-free flow
[
### Microfluidic flow controller
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/pressure-flow-controllers/flow-ez/)
The **[Complex Emulsion Production Platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/ "Complex Emulsion Production Platform")** is a ready-to-use platform to perform emulsification processes such as single emulsions and double emulsions.
- Save time with an integrated, organized, ready-to-use platform
- Get monodispersed complex emulsions rapidly (down to 2% monodispersity)
- Produce **microparticle and microcapsule** for encapsulation of API or other reagents inside different materials such as polymers (**[PLGA](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/ "PLGA")**, **[UV polymerized](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/generation-of-microcapsules-with-a-uv-crosslinked-polymer/ "UV polymerized")** materials), hydrogels and more.
[
### Microfluidic Complex Emulsion Production Platform
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/complex-emulsion-production-platform/)
The **[RayDrop Double Emulsion Device](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/ "RayDrop Double Emulsion Device")** specific design allows for [multiple liquid type emulsification](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/ "multiple liquid type emulsification") within the same device with **no coating needed**. The device can create both **single and complex emulsions.**
- Droplet size from 25 µm to 450µm outer diameter.
- High monodispersity (CV < 2%)
- Water-in-oil-in-water (w/o/w) and oil-in-water-in-oil (o/w/o) within the same device
[
### Microfluidic Double Emulsion Device
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/droplet-particle-generation/raydrop-double-emulsions/)
👉 Ready to improve your droplet generation system? Get the best of our expertise.
[Talk to an expert](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Why Explore Double Emulsion Microfluidics
[Double emulsion microfluidics](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/ "Double emulsion microfluidics")—defined as a process of encapsulating droplets within other droplets—allows for a higher level containment, encapsulation, compartmentalization, and controlled delivery of biological samples or templates. This technique proves [useful in drug delivery](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/ "Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine"), single cell studies, material development, or even formulating food and cosmetics.
With **precise control over release** dynamics, core size, and shell thickness, double emulsions serve as an adaptive basis for creating **complex engineered systems** designed to specific requirements.
**Interested in learning more? Discover key reviews covering into the potential and techniques behind double emulsion microfluidics**
- [Microfluidics White Papers### An exploration of Microfluidic technology and fluid handling
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
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Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Microfluidics in Drug Delivery: A New Era of Precision Medicine
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/microfluidics-in-drug-delivery/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### PLGA nanoparticle synthesis using 3D microfluidic hydrodynamic focusing
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/plga-nanoparticle-synthesis/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### A quick and efficient double encapsulation method for FACS-based droplet sorting
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/facs-based-droplet-sorting/)
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Microfluidic Application Notes### Alginate Microbeads Production
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/alginate-microbeads-production/)
- [
### Webinar: Controlled UV-crosslinked microcapsule production using microfluidic technology
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-uv-crosslinked-microcapsule-production/)
**Catégories d'évènement:** Webinars
---
### [Our Leading Microfluidics Events in 2026](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/microfluidics-events-in-2026/)
**Published:** February 12, 2026
**Author:** doaa
**Content:**
Find out where to meet Fluigent in 2026! We’ll be present at leading conferences and industry events around the world, where we’ll highlight our newest microfluidics innovations. From live demonstrations and expert discussions to networking opportunities, discover where you can connect with our team. Stay informed, plan your visit, and come explore our cutting-edge solutions with us.
## SLAS 2026
📆 February 7-11, 2026
📍Boston, USA
The SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) Conference is a leading event that brings together scientists, researchers, and industry experts from life sciences, laboratory automation, and drug discovery. Showcasing advanced technologies, innovative research, and valuable networking opportunities, it stands out as a major meeting point for progress in laboratory automation and high-throughput screening.
SLAS 2026 in Boston has wrapped up, and it’s been an incredible experience! 🌍✨
A big thank you to everyone who visited Booth to meet our team, discover our microfluidic solutions, and talk about the future of laboratory automation. It was a real pleasure connecting with so many researchers, innovators, and industry professionals.
[More information](https://www.slas.org/events-calendar/slas2026-international-conference-exhibition/)
## IPGG User Day 2026
📆 March 25, 2026
📍Paris, France
The Institut Pierre-Gilles de Gennes (IPGG) User Day is a key event that brings together researchers, engineers, and industry partners around microfluidics technologies and innovation. Marking its 3rd edition alongside the 10th anniversary of the platform, the event highlights a decade of impactful collaborations and projects. Featuring inspiring presentations, expert exchanges, and valuable networking opportunities, it stands out as a unique meeting point to explore technological advancements, discover new applications, and accelerate scientific and industrial projects.
## CNRS GDRs, ‘Approches Quantitatives du Vivant’ and ‘Micro Nano Fluidique’
📆 February 3, 2026
📍Lyon, France
**Micro–Nano Systems: from Diagnosis to Organ-on-Chip in Lyon**
This week, Micro-Nano Systems conference brought together the French microfluidics research community, organized by the CNRS GDRs “Quantitative Approaches to Life Sciences” and “MicroNanofluidics”.
The program highlighted poster sessions and presentations from young researchers, alongside invited professors covering a wide range of topics – from microengineered platforms for studying cancer cell biomechanics to the design and rheology of biomimetic tissues. It was also a pleasure to meet users of Fluigent equipment and to learn more about how it is being used in research automation, particularly for droplet generation and diagnostic applications.
Many thanks to the organizers and to CNRS for putting together a great event that fostered scientific exchanges!
[More information](https://mnfaqv2026.sciencesconf.org/)
## Pittcon
📆 March 7-11, 2026
📍San Antonio, Texas
The Pittcon 2026 is a leading international event that brings together scientists, researchers, and industry professionals from analytical chemistry, life sciences, and laboratory technologies. Showcasing advanced instrumentation, cutting-edge scientific developments, and valuable networking opportunities, the conference serves as a key platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and progress in analytical and laboratory sciences.
[More information](https://pittcon.org/attend-pittcon/)
## FOM 2026
📆 March 29-April 1, 2026
📍Stockholm, Sweden
The FOM 2026 is a leading international conference that brings together scientists, researchers, and technology experts working in microscopy and advanced imaging. Highlighting state-of-the-art instrumentation, innovative methodologies, and emerging applications, FOM 2026 provides a key forum for scientific exchange, collaboration, and progress in optical and bio-imaging research.
[More information](https://www.focusonmicroscopy.org/)
## EMBO (Jacques Monod)
📆 April 7-10, 2026
📍Institut Jacques Monod, Paris, France
The EMBO (Jacques Monod) 2026 events bring together scientists and researchers from across the life sciences, with a strong focus on molecular biology, genetics, and cellular processes. Hosted at the Institut Jacques Monod, these events highlight cutting-edge research, advanced experimental approaches, and opportunities for scientific exchange. EMBO (Jacques Monod) 2026 serves as an important platform for fostering collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation within the international research community.
## Microfluidic Horizons 2026
📆 May 18-22, 2026
📍Padua, Italy
The Microfluidic Horizons 2026 conference is a key international event that brings together scientists, researchers, and industry professionals working in microfluidics and lab-on-a-chip technologies. Showcasing advanced technologies, innovative research, and emerging applications, the conference provides valuable opportunities for knowledge exchange and professional networking. Microfluidic Horizons 2026 serves as an important platform for fostering collaboration and advancing the development of microfluidic systems in life sciences, diagnostics, and biomedical engineering.
[More information](https://www.microfluidics2026.it/)
## MPS
📆 May 26 – 29, 2026
📍Washington, USA
The MPS 2026 conference is a leading international event that brings together scientists, researchers, and industry professionals working in microphysiological systems and advanced in vitro models. Showcasing innovative technologies, emerging methodologies, and cutting-edge research, the event highlights the latest developments in organ-on-chip platforms and physiologically relevant model systems. MPS 2026 serves as a key forum for scientific exchange, collaboration, and progress in biomedical research, drug development, and predictive testing.
[More information](https://mpsworldsummit.org/)
## GRC, Physics and Chemistry of Microfluidics
📆 June 1 to 6, 2025
📍Lucca, Italy
The Physics and Chemistry of Microfluidics GRC is a premier, international scientific conference focused on advancing the frontiers of science through the presentation of cutting-edge and unpublished research, prioritizing time for discussion after each talk and fostering informal interactions among scientists of all career stages.
[More information](https://www.grc.org/physics-and-chemistry-of-microfluidics-conference/2025/)
## EurOOCs Annual meeting (Scientific Eng App)
📆 June 22 – 24, 2026
📍Braga, Portugal
The **EurOOCs Annual Meeting 2026 (Scientific, Engineering, and Applications)** is a major international event that brings together scientists, engineers, and industry experts working in organ-on-chip and organoid technologies. Showcasing advanced platforms, innovative research, and emerging applications, the meeting highlights the latest developments in physiologically relevant in vitro systems. EurOOCs 2026 provides a key platform for scientific exchange, interdisciplinary collaboration, and progress in biomedical research, drug discovery, and translational applications.
## Cell Bio 2026
📆 December 12-16, 2026
📍San Diego, California
The Cell Bio 2026 conference is a premier international event that brings together scientists, researchers, and industry professionals working in cell biology and related life science disciplines. Showcasing cutting-edge research, advanced technologies, and innovative experimental approaches, the conference provides valuable opportunities for scientific exchange and professional networking. Cell Bio 2026 serves as a key platform for fostering collaboration and advancing the understanding of cellular mechanisms in health, disease, and biomedical research.
[More information](https://www.ascb.org/ascb-meetings/cell-bio-2026/)
## MicroTAS 2026
The 30th International Conference on Miniaturized Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences (µTAS 2026)
📆 October 18-22, 2026
📍Grenada, Spain
The µTAS international conference series is a leading forum for presenting research in microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip, organ-on-a-chip, wearables, BioMEMS, microfabrication, 3D printing, nanotechnology, integration, materials and surfaces, as well as analysis, synthesis, and detection technologies applied to chemistry, life sciences, medicine, the environment, agriculture, energy, and food.
[More information](https://microtas2026.org/)
## Our Next Webinar
- [
### Webinar – Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip: focusing on Vessel-on-Chip Models
Register Here](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-importance-of-flow-in-organ-on-a-chip/)
## Our Recent Webinars
- [
### Webinar – Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip: focusing on Vessel-on-Chip Models
Rewatch the webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-importance-of-flow-in-organ-on-a-chip/)
- [
### Webinar | Advancing Microfluidics through Automation
Rewatch the webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-microfluidics-through-automation/)
- [
### Webinar: Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip, featuring the Gut-on-a-Chip Model
Rewatch the webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
- [
### Webinar- Flow Control in Microfluidics
Rewatch the webinar](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-control-in-microfluidics/)
**Catégories d'évènement:** Events
---
### [Our Leading Microfluidics Events in 2025](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/microfluidics-conferences-2025/)
**Published:** March 26, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
Discover where you can meet Fluigent in 2025! We’ll be attending top conferences and industry events worldwide, showcasing our latest innovations in microfluidics. Whether you’re looking for live demos, expert insights, or networking opportunities, find out where to connect with us. Stay updated and plan your visit to engage with our team and explore our cutting-edge solutions.
## SLAS 2025
📆 January 25-29, 2025
📍San Diego Convention Center, San Diego, CA, USA
The **SLAS (Society for Laboratory Automation and Screening) Conference** is a premier event bringing together scientists, researchers, and industry leaders in **life sciences, laboratory automation, and drug discovery**. It features cutting-edge technologies, innovative research, and networking opportunities, making it a key event for advancing laboratory automation and high-throughput screening.
SLAS 2025 in San Diego has come to an end, and what an amazing experience it has been! 🌍✨
A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by Booth 2210 to connect with us, explore our microfluidic solutions, and discuss the future of lab automation. It was a pleasure meeting so many researchers, innovators, and industry experts.
[More information](https://www.slas.org/events-calendar/slas2025-international-conference-exhibition/)
## CSEM’s Next-Gen Organ-on-Chips & Organoids Workshop
📆 February 13-14, 2025
📍Switzerland
A dynamic two-day event at the forefront of bioconvergence. Connect with key decision-makers from the pharma and biotech industries, clinicians, organ-on-chips suppliers, regulatory experts, and leading research organizations.
On February 13th and 14th, Fluigent, in association with microfluidic ChipShop GmbH, has participating in the CSEM Organ-on-a-Chip Workshop, bringing together key players in pharma, biotech, and organ-on-a-chip research.
We presented [Omi™—our automated Organ-on-a-Chip platform](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/ "Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform")—in action! Omi™ is designed to simplify your microfluidic setup and automate your experiments.
[More information](https://www.csem.ch/en/events/next-gen-organ-on-chips-organoids-2025/)
## User Day IPGG
📆 March 19, 2025
📍Paris, France
The [IPGG technology platform](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/center-partners/) is a set of rooms with an area of 550m² which offers all the technologies necessary for the creation of microfluidic devices, their characterization and their use.
On March 19th 2025, we had the pleasure of sponsoring the second edition of the Plateforme Technologique IPGG (UAR 3750) User Day—a fantastic celebration of science and community! The event featured inspiring presentations from PhD students at Université PSL, representing ESPCI Paris – PSL, Institut Curie, Chimie ParisTech – PSL, École normale supérieure, and Mines Paris – PSL, highlighting cutting-edge research in microfluidics and biophysics.
As sponsored, we had the pleasure of rewarding the winner of the *PhD Contest MT250’s*!
[More information on User Day IPGG](https://www.fluigent.com/company/microfluidics-academic-partners/center-partners/)
## Organ-on-a-Chip & Microfluidic Hands-On Workshop LUMC x Fluigent
📆 April 9, 2025
📍Leiden, Netherlands
Join the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) and Fluigent for an exclusive hands-on workshop designed to provide invaluable insights into Organ-on-a-Chip flow control and microfluidic system setup.
[More information and Registration link](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/organ-on-a-chip-workshop-lumc-fluigent/)
## Workshop on organoids and organs-on-a-chip (O&OoC)
📆 April 3, 2025
📍Institut Curie, Paris, France
Workshop on organoids and organs on a chip (O&OoC) on April 3! Join us and discover the latest advances, organoid culture, clinical applications & networking.
[Register](https://www.biovalley-france.com/fr/agenda/workshop-oooc-2025/)
## Microfluidics Consortium 2025
📆 April 8-9, 2025
📍At the AGORA Cancer Research Center, Lausanne, Switzerland
Network with Thought-Leaders from Academe and Industry, Interact with Research and Applications talks, see Table Top Demos, interact with the brightest academics and entrepreneurs.
[More information on the physical and virtual event](https://events.ringcentral.com/events/microfluidics-consortium-2025-meeting-lausanne/registration)
## GRC, Physics and Chemistry of Microfluidics
📆 June 1 to 6, 2025
📍Lucca, Italy
The Physics and Chemistry of Microfluidics GRC is a premier, international scientific conference focused on advancing the frontiers of science through the presentation of cutting-edge and unpublished research, prioritizing time for discussion after each talk and fostering informal interactions among scientists of all career stages.
[More information](https://www.grc.org/physics-and-chemistry-of-microfluidics-conference/2025/)
## MPS World Summit & EUROoCS 2025
📆 June 9-13, 2025
📍Brussels, Belgium
**Microphysiological systems (MPS)** represent a series of bioengineering advancements that replicate organ structure and function in vitro. Driven by stem cell technologies, these systems have led to the development of diverse human-relevant models and test platforms, enabling widespread access to cutting-edge experimental tools through global, multidisciplinary collaborations.
The **European Organ-on-Chip Society (EUROoCS)** is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and advancing Organ-on-Chip research. It aims to foster knowledge exchange, support innovation, and drive progress in the field to improve global health.
[More information & Registration](https://mpsworldsummit.org/)
## International Conference on Droplets 2025
📆 July 1-3, 2025
📍Liège, Belgium
The **Droplets conferences** explore all aspects of droplets, from simple to complex fluids like biological fluids, nanofluids, and polymers. Covering experiments, modeling, and theory, they bridge fundamental research and real-world applications.
The event features keynote lectures, oral and poster presentations, and brainstorming sessions, fostering discussions and collaboration.
[More information & Registration](https://droplets2025.org/)
## MicroTAS 2025
**The 29th International Conference on** Miniaturized Systems for Chemistry and Life Sciences – (µTAS 2025)
📆 November 2-6, 2025
📍Adelaide Convention Centre, Australia
The µTAS international conference series is the premier forum for reporting research results in microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip, organ-on-a-chip, wearables, BioMEMS, microfabrication, 3D printing, nanotechnology, integration, materials and surfaces, analysis and synthesis, and detection technologies for chemistry, the life sciences, medicine, and the environment, agriculture, energy and food.
[More information & Registration](https://microtas2025.org/)
**Catégories d'évènement:** Events
---
### [Webinar: Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip, featuring the Gut-on-a-Chip Model](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
**Published:** February 19, 2025
**Author:** antoine
**Content:**
As OOC technologies continue to evolve, precise flow rate control has been shown to be essential for controlling shear stress in long-term experiments and accurate biophysical modeling. In this webinar, you’ll gain insights into the latest advancements in flow control for OOC perfusion and recirculating media systems. Learn about the state-of-the-art options available, their advantages, limitations, and their relative effects on experimental outcomes.
Our expert from Institute Pasteur Lille showcase the Gut-on-Chip (GoC) model, supported by the Omi automated platform, highlighting its applications and benefits.
### In this conference, you will:
- Gain insights into the latest advancements in flow control technologies for OOC/MPS, and how they effect experimental outcomes.
- Discover best practices for implementing flow parameters in long-term studies, ensuring physiological relevance and reproducibility.
- Gold standards in Organ-On-Chip design: how to estimate shear stress and its significance in chip models?
- Explore real-world applications: A case study presentation from Institute Pasteur Lille
### Featured Talk by Dr. Elise Delannoy
Dr. Delannoy will present her latest research on the Bioengineered Human Gut-on-Chip Model to Study Host-Microbiome Interactions, highlighting an innovative, low-cost, open-access, and 3D-printed Gut-on-Chip model (3DPµGut).
## Discover Omi, Automated Organ-on-chip platform
Omi is an automated platform that helps reproduce the microphysiological behavior of organs inside microfluidic chips. It is compatible any type of chips to sustain different cell culture types or organ on chip models (Gut, Skin…)
[More information about Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
### Endothelial Cell Culture Under Shear Stress
Reproduce precise shear stress conditions of blood vessels with endothelial cells-on-chip using the Omi.
HUVEC after 7 days of culture media recirculation with Omi
[Download the Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
### Gut-on-chip Model Development
Achieve optimal flow control and sustained culture conditions, enhancing cell differentiation, nutrient delivery, and intestinal barrier function to accurately replicate the human intestine.
Caco2 cells after 7 days of culture medium recirculation with Omi
[Download the Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
## More OOAC Solutions
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
## More Webinar on OOAC or Omi
- [
### Webinar – Mastering Microphysiological Precision with Omi
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-mastering-microphysiological-precision-omi/)
- [
### WEBINAR: An one-of-a-kind Organ-on-chip platform
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## To explore further on the OOAC Platform
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
**Catégories d'évènement:** Webinars
---
### [Webinar - Liver–Kidney OOC Model to Investigate Drug Disposition](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-liver-kidney-ooc-model/)
**Published:** October 15, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
Join us for an online session exploring [dual organ-on-a-chip (OOC) model supported by Omi™ OOAC Platform ](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/ "dual organ-on-a-chip (OOC) model supported by Omi™ OOAC Platform ")advances the study of drug disposition.
Using **tacrolimus**, a widely prescribed immunosuppressant with known nephrotoxic risks, this session demonstrates **how a liver–kidney OOC platform can reveal pharmacokinetic processes,** such as hepatic metabolism and renal clearance of tacrolimus and transporter dynamics influencing drug accumulation and elimination.
By recreating cross-organ communication in a microfluidic system, this platform offers human-relevant insights for pharmacology, transplantation research, and precision medicine.
📅 **Date:** November 25th, 2025.
## Key Takeaways:
- How a dual HepaRG–RPTEC/TERT1 model simulates connected hepatic and renal functions.
- How microfluidics and Omi™ enable advanced drug testing – Presented by Anel
- **Case Study:** Tacrolimus Disposition in a Liver–Kidney OOC Model – *Presented by Isy Petit*
Insights into tacrolimus disposition, transporter regulation, and nephrotoxicity.
- Future Outlook in Pharmacology and Transplantation Research – *Presented by Dr.Nicolas Vedrenne*
- How automated media recirculation enables 48-hour dynamic studies
- Metabolomics profiling revealing compartment-specific responses
## Speakers:
- **Anel Rakhmatullina** – Life-Science Applications Engineer, Fluigent
- **Dr. Nicolas Vedrenne** – Associate Professor (MCU) in « Toxicology and Environmental Health », University of Limoges Pharmacology and Transplantation UMR 1248
- **Isy Petit** – PhD Candidate in « Drug Membrane Transporters », University of Limoges Pharmacology and Transplantation UMR 1248
## Discover Omi, Automated Organ-on-chip platform
Omi is an automated platform that helps reproduce the microphysiological behavior of organs inside microfluidic chips. It is compatible any type of chips to sustain different cell culture types or organ on chip models (Gut, Skin…)
[More information about Omi](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
## Building the Liver–Kidney Dual OOC Model: Access the Application Note
Tacrolimus is a commonly used immunosuppressant for liver transplant patients, but its use is limited by a narrow therapeutic window, variable pharmacokinetics, and risk of nephrotoxicity.
To better understand how the liver and kidney jointly process this drug, researchers developed a **[interlinked organ-on-chip (OOC) model](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/ "interlinked organ-on-chip (OOC) model")** using the Omi™ Dual Platform. This system combines HepaRG spheroids and RPTEC/TERT1 cells in a dynamic microfluidic circuit, allowing real-time study of hepatic metabolism and renal transporter activity under continuous recirculation.
[Download the Application Note](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/liver-kidney-organ-on-chip-model/)
*Figure.* Overview of Liver-Kidney Dual OOC setup
## More OOAC Solutions
[
### Omi, an Automated Organ-On-A-Chip Platform
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/automated-organ-on-chip-platform/)
[
### Microfluidic Recirculation Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/recirculation_package/)
[
### Organ on Chip Perfusion Pack
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/packages/application-packages/cell_perfusion_package/)
[
### Dual-Channel Microfluidic Cell Culture Chip
Read more
](https://www.fluigent.com/research/instruments/microfluidic-chips/cell-culture-organ-on-a-chip-microscopy/be-doubleflow/)
## More Webinar on OOAC or Omi
- [
### Webinar – Mastering Microphysiological Precision with Omi
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-mastering-microphysiological-precision-omi/)
- [
### Webinar: Importance of Flow in Organ-on-a-Chip, featuring the Gut-on-a-Chip Model
Watch the Recording](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-in-gut-on-chip/)
## To explore further on the OOAC Platform
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Controlling Flow Rate and Shear Stress with Omi™ to Study Endothelial Cell Response
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/endothelial-cell-culture-under-shear-stress/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Gut-on-Chip Model Development Using OOAC Platform, Omi
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/gut-on-chip-model/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Peristaltic Pump vs Pressure-Based Microfluidic Flow Control for Organ on Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/peristaltic-pump-vs-pressure-based-microfluidic-flow-control-systems-for-organ-on-chip-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### CNRS/UTC: study of a liver-on-a-chip model
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/liver-on-chip/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Long-term fluid recirculation system for Organ-on-a-Chip applications
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/recirculation-system-for-ooac-applications/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models
Read more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
**Catégories d'évènement:** Webinars
---
### [Webinar | Advancing Microfluidics through Automation](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-microfluidics-through-automation/)
**Published:** November 7, 2025
**Author:** Etsia
**Content:**
Streamline Experiments and Enhance Reproducibility
Automation is reshaping microfluidic research by enabling **higher precision**, **reproducibility**, and throughput across applications ranging from droplet generation to organ-on-chip systems.
This webinar explored practical strategies, tools, and recommendations to **optimize microfluidic workflows** through advanced automation and smart flow control.
Find out how you can **improve reliability, reduce variability, and simplify complex microfluidic protocols.**
👉 **You can now [watch the full replay](https://youtu.be/CQ3S3gJOgF4 "watch the full replay") on demand.**
**About the Event**
As experimental complexity increases, so does the need for reliable, automated systems that can **manage microfluidic protocols with minimal variability.**
On November 20, 2025, two dedicated sessions brought together Fluigent experts on flow handling solutions to demonstrate how automated control solutions and flow technologies can optimize microfluidic setups, reduce human error, and simplify fluidic experiments.
Participants discovered actionable guidance for workflows involving:
- Droplet microfluidics
- Continuous perfusion and recirculation
- Organ-on-chip and cell-based studies
A dynamic Tips & Q&A segment allowed attendees to discuss challenges directly with Fluigent engineers. **If you have any question, don’t hesitate to [contact us](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/ "contact us").**
## **Agenda Highlights**:
- How automation improves reproducibility and efficiency
- The role of advanced flow control systems in achieving stability and precision
- Applications of automation across droplets, organ-on-chip, and cell culture workflows
- Best practices for setup optimization, calibration, and fluidic management
- Live discussions and expert insights from Fluigent engineers
## **Speakers:**
- **Maya Ballet**, *Customer Support Engineer*
- **Dr. Joseph Farah**, *Microfluidic Application Engineer*
🎥 **Replay — Full Webinar (Available Now)**
Access the video at your convenience and revisit the presentation, explanations, and expert recommendations.
[Watch it Now](https://youtu.be/CQ3S3gJOgF4)
Have questions about your microfluidic setup or need guidance for your next experiment? **Our team is here to help.**
Contact us to discuss your application or book a personalized demo with one of our engineers.
[Get in touch!](https://www.fluigent.com/contact-us/)
## Explore Related Resources
### Automation in Microfluidics: Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback Loops
Learn how automated monitoring improves precision and reproducibility.
[Read the review](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/automation-in-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Automation in Microfluidics: Real-Time Monitoring and Feedback Loops
Learn how automation in microfluidics enhances precision and reproducibility through real-time monitoring and intelligent feedback control.
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/what-is-microfluidics/automation-in-microfluidics/)
### Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Droplet-based Microfluidics – A Complete Guide
Complete and in-depth overview on droplet microfluidics.
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/microfluidic-white-paper-droplet-based-microfluidics/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 10 Tips for Reliable Droplet Generation
Droplet microfluidics enables precise liquid control for drug discovery, diagnostics, and materials. Follow these 10 tips to master stability, flow, and encapsulation.
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/droplet-and-particle-generation-in-microfluidics/10-tips-reliable-droplet-generation/)
- [Microfluidics White Papers### Double emulsion for the generation of microcapsules – a Review
Complete and in-depth overview on production Complete and in-deph overview on microcapsule production.
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/generation-of-microcapsules/)
### Expert Reviews: Organ-on-Chip and Cell-based Applications
- [Microfluidics White Papers### A review of Organ on Chip Technology – A White Paper
Discover the concepts of OOC engineering and their applications in medical sciences.
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/white-papers/review-a-guide-to-organs-on-chips/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### 5 Key Tips for Starting Organ-on-Chip Models
Discover how to successfully design and implement Organ-on-Chip (OoC) models — from flow control to physiological design, avoid common pitfalls and boost reproducibility.
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/5-tips-for-organ-on-chip-models/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Expert Reviews: Basics of Microfluidics### Optimizing Microfluidic Perfusion: Best Practices and Innovations
Explore best practices in microfluidic perfusion for organ-on-a-chip, live-cell imaging, drug testing, and advanced flow control systems
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/expertise-reviews/microfluidic-cell-biology/microfluidic-perfusion-innovation/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Automated Immunofluorescence using Aria
Cutting-edge Automated Immunofluorescence protocol that leverages the capabilities of the automated sequential injection system
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automated-immunofluorescence/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidic Application Notes### Automating calcium imaging in neural cells with Fluigent’s Aria
Explore automated calcium imaging with Fluigent’s Aria, enhancing precision and efficiency in neuronal activity analysis. Discover our streamlined protocol.
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/application-notes/automating-calcium-imaging/)
- [version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8" standalone="no"?
Microfluidics Case Studies### Gut-on-Chip Modeling: From Chip Development to Perfusion
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/resources-support/expertise/customer-case-studies/gut-on-chip-modeling/)
### Looking for more? Discover more microfluidics webinars
Browse related on-demand sessions on automation, flow control, droplets, organ-on-chip, and advanced experimental workflows.
- [
### Webinar Complex Microfluidic Emulsions: How to Optimize Production, Flow Control & Monodispersity
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-complex-emulsion-flow-control-and-monodispersity/)
- [
### Webinar- Flow Control in Microfluidics
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-flow-control-in-microfluidics/)
- [
### Webinar – Mastering Microphysiological Precision with Omi
Explore more](https://www.fluigent.com/company/events/webinar-mastering-microphysiological-precision-omi/)
## Discover our flow control instruments designed to support automated microfluidic experiments
[![flow ez microfluidic flo