On-chip laser microdissection for single cell sorting

Stanford researchers have developed a new on-chip system for laser microdissection that enables more reliable isolation of single cells or small regions of tissue and permits long-term sample storage.

Laser microdissection enables scientists to precisely visualize specific cells or small regions of tissue under a microscope and isolate them for downstream analysis. This is especially critical when analyzing specific cell types in heterogenous samples like tumors. However, available instruments for laser microdissection have significant drawbacks, as they are unable to reliably isolate single cells, are error-prone, and struggle with physical influences such as electrostatics. Additionally, such open systems leave samples prone to contamination and cannot reliably store samples for later analysis.

Stanford researchers therefore developed an improved system combining laser microdissection with microfluidics. Cells are isolated using a laser and dispensed into buffer running through a microfluidic chip, where a system of valves sorts different samples. In contrast to systems that rely on gravity, this allows for reliable and standardized sample isolation. This also protects samples from contamination and enables their long-term storage. Additionally, a miniaturized format allows for cheap and easy integration into upstream imaging and downstream analysis workflows.

Stage of Development
Prototype: Reserachers have demonstrated isolation of cell shapes from a sample and their transportation though the microfluidic chip