Combining sound and light to study live cells using a 3D-printed acoustofluidic device
Combining sound and light to study live cells using a 3D-printed acoustofluidic device lead image
Acoustofluidic methods are employed to manipulate cells and microparticles in microfluidic systems, commonly using the acoustic radiation force. The exchange of linear momentum between an incoming ultrasonic wave and a suspended object generates this force. Consequently, acoustofluidics can be utilized in a variety of scenarios to enhance the capabilities of Raman spectroscopy (RS) ranging from the detection of nucleic acids to monitoring live bacteria in the presence of an antibiotic.
Rocha et al. examined how the radiation force and torque produced in 3D-printed acoustofluidic devices can significantly improve erythrocyte (Ery) enrichment. As a result, the Raman investigation of a live and single Ery becomes simple and without the influence of the substrate.
“We were motivated to investigate the dynamic behavior of erythrocytes in real-time,” said author Glauber T. Silva. “We developed a novel approach that combines light and sound to study live cells.”
The team constructed acoustofluidic devices using affordable materials, opening new avenues for exploring the cellular world.
“We were particularly surprised to discover that sound can generate orderly erythrocyte (2D) crystals,” said Silva.
The researchers’ future projects will focus on investigating the cellular response to drug applications with the goal of popularizing the use of acoustofluidic devices for Raman spectroscopy of live cells. Specifically, they plan to apply the techniques developed to the study of peripheral blood mononuclear cells.
“This procedure holds potential for diagnosing blood diseases, such as malaria, offering new possibilities for medical diagnostics,” said Silva.
Source: “Advancing Raman spectroscopy of erythrocytes with 3D-printed acoustofluidic devices,” by Ueslen Rocha, Giclênio C. Silva, Marcos V. S. Sales, Flávio O. S. D’Amato, Ana C. R. Leite, and Glauber T. Silva, Applied Physics Letters (2023). The article can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0145565 .
