Microfluidic device for enabling fluidic isolation among interconnected compartments within the apparatus and methods relating to same
US7419822B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 6, 2003 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 6, 2023 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01L2400/0487
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Embodiments of the invention are directed to a device that combines microfabrication, microfluidic, and surface micropatterning techniques to create a multi-compartment neuronal culturing device that has application across a number of different neuroscience uses. Devices configured in accordance with the invention allow directed growth of neurites and isolation of neurites from their cell bodies. The device can use hydrostatic pressure to isolate insults to one compartment and, thus, expose localized areas of neurons to insults. Due to the high resistance of the microgrooves for fluid transport, insults are contained in the neuritic compartment without appreciable leakage into the somal compartment for a certain period of time (e.g., over 15 h).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.