서로 다른 밀도의 유체 내 바이오 물질이 받는 중력과 부력 차를 이용한 연속적 세포 분리기

Abstract

We present a continuous cell separator that achieves density-dependent and size-independent cell separation based on the net force of gravity and buoyancy forces on the cells in dissimilar density fluids. Previous cell separators are, based on the size or dielectrophoretic property of the cells and, are suitable for size-dependent and density-independent cell separation. However, these properties can make it difficult to collect the same types of cells with the same density but with size variations. The present separator, however, is capable of collecting the same types of cells based on the cell density in the fluid. Regardless of cell size, the proposed chip isolates low density cells, (white blood cells, or WBCs) at the upper outlet while obtaining high-density cells (red blood cells, or RBCs) from the lower outlet based on density. Efficiency levels for separation of WBCs and RBCs were 90.9±9.1% and 86.4±1.99%, respectively. The present separator therefore has the potential for use in the pretreatment of whole blood. © 2012 The Korean Society of Mechanical Engineers.