Method and apparatus for manipulation of cells and cell-like structures focused electric fields in microfludic systems and use thereof

US7018819B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Cellectricon AB · SE

Inventors

• Owe Orwar · Hagfors, SE
• Mattias Karlsson · Huskvarna, SE
• Daniel T. Chiu · Seattle, US
• Anette Stromberg · Mörbylånga, SE
• Anders Karlsson · Vaxholm, SE

Key dates

• Filing date: Nov 30, 2001
• Grant date: Mar 28, 2006
• Expiry date: Jun 18, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC C): Chemistry; Metallurgy
• CPC primary: C12N13/00
• WIPO field: Pharmaceuticals
• WIPO sector: Chemistry

Abstract

An apparatus and method are disclosed for electromanipulation of at least one cell or cell-like structure having cell-like membranes, the method comprising the steps: (a) at least one cell or cell-like structure is transported from one or more sample containers located on a chip through microchannel(s) located on said chip into a chamber located on said chip, wherein said chamber contains electrode(s) connected to a voltage generator, wherein said microchannel provides a fluid contact between the sample containers, (b) said cell or cell-like structure(s) is placed close to said at least one electrode, and (c) an electrical field is applied and focused on said cell or cell-like structure(s), said electrical field being of a strength sufficient to obtain pore-formation or fusion of said at least one cell or cell-like structure with another cell or cell-like structure(s) present in said chamber.