"Magnetophoretic Circuits for Applications in Single Cell Arrays" Professor Benjamin Yellen

Magnetophoretic Circuits for Applications in Single Cell Arrays

Abstract: The ability to manipulate small fluid droplets and single cells with the precision and parallelization of modern-day computer hardware has profound applications for biochemical detection, gene sequencing, chemical synthesis, and highly parallel analysis of single cells.   Drawing inspiration from general circuit theory, here we demonstrate a class of integrated systems for executing sequential and parallel, timed operations on an ensemble of single particles and cells.  The integrated circuits are constructed from lithographically defined, overlaid patterns of magnetic film and current lines.  The magnetic patterns passively control particles similar to electrical conductors, diodes, and capacitors.  The current lines actively switch particles between different tracks, similar to gated electrical transistors.  When combined into arrays and driven by a rotating magnetic field clock, these integrated circuits have general multiplexing properties and enable the precise control of magnetizable objects.  In this talk, I will also discuss our future goals of using this platform to organize single cells and cell pairs into large arrays, continuously evaluate the single cell and cell pair behavior for long durations when exposed to different conditions, and retrieve specific cells for downstream gene expression analysis and/or clonal expansion. The comprehensive characterization of individual cell-cell interactions from the live state to the cell lysis is paramount to furthering our understanding of immunology, cancer, and neuronal networks, and will lead to the development of new therapies for human disease.

Abou the Speaker: Benjamin Yellen is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science at Duke University, Durham, NC. Yellen received a BS in Chemistry in 1998 from Emory University, Atlanta, GA, and a PhD in Electrical & Computer Engineering in 2004 from Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA.  Yellen’s research lies at the intersection of electromagnetics, colloids and surface science, nonlinear dynamics and controls, with a focus on materials science, and life science applications.  During his academic career, Yellen has published more than 50 papers in various applied physics and engineering journals.  He has received funding from NSF, DARPA, and NIH to support his research on magnetic mechanisms for controlling large degree of freedom systems. 

http://www.mems.duke.edu/faculty/benjamin-yellen