| Day 1: Tuesday, 13 June 2023 | ||
| TIME | TOPIC | PRESENTER |
| 9:30 | Opening remarks | |
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| 18:00 | End | |
| Day 2: Wednesday, 14 June 2023 | ||
| TIME | TOPIC | PRESENTER |
| 9:30 | Opening remarks | |
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| 17:00 | End | |
Microfluidic physiological flows to test Ultrasound-controlled Swarmbots
ARSL ETH Zürich
Switzerland
Navigation of microrobots in living vasculatures is essential in realizing targeted drug delivery and advancing non-invasive surgeries. However, in the present there are still few functional microrobots when implemented inside a vasculature environment. The complexity of microrobotic manipulation, makes it difficult for these platforms to be translated to real applications, and still a thorough characterization of microrobotic handling is needed. We developed a microfluidic platform to test the acoustic control of “swarmbots”, based on the self-assembly of clinically approved microbubbles. We performed an in-depth characterization of microrobot self-assembly and propulsion mechanisms, exploiting microfluidic to mimic physiological flow rates. We demonstrate controlled propulsion towards both ends of an artificial vessel and we combine the microrobot propulsion with real-time imaging.
Fine micro- and nanofabrication of biocompatible hydrogel materials for biomedical application
Ferentis
Lithuania
We have developed a synthetic, ECM-mimicking hydrogel platform and have shown its promising characteristics for soft prosthesis and xeno-free explant expansion applications. Also, our previous work has demonstrated chip-format compatible modelling of neural and cancerous processes based on the tuneable biointeractivity of the self-supporting hydrogel. Here we will present microfabrication capabilities of this new biomaterial displaying elastomechanical characteristics similar to those of PDMS. We have fabricated and characterised topographic features down to the scale of sub-500 nm. This microscaffold fabrication is scaleable without relying on 3D printing techniques. We demonstrate how this system is exploited in contractile tissue-on-a-chip devices, e.g. skeletal muscle modelling.
Centrifugal microfluidic toolbox for liquid biopsy applications
Hahn-Schickard
Germany
Liquid biopsy is a revolutionary concept in oncology, utilizing analytes in body fluids as biomarkers for diagnosis of cancer. However, isolation and analysis of such analytes in a complex background, such as blood, is still challenging and standardization of liquid biopsy analysis remains an unsolved task. We propose using centrifugal microfluidics as a toolbox for automation and standardization of liquid biopsy applications. Demonstrated workflows cover microfluidic isolation of circulating cell-free nucleic acids (cfDNA), isolation of extracellular vesicles, analysis of cfDNA by digital droplet PCR and automated library preparation for next generation sequencing (NGS). To reach the next level of workflow standardization, we propose a concept of using a robotic station for microfluidic cartridge handling.
An innovative microfluidic platform with optical tweezers for screening and retrieval of B cells: its applicability demonstrated by discovering anti-SARS-CoV-2 monoclonal antibodies
KU Leuven
Belgium
Digging deep into single-cell properties and collecting cells of interest for downstream processing is recently made possible by advancements in microfabrication and microfluidics. In this context, we present a powerful platform in which microwells and optical tweezers are integrated with a microfluidic chip, enabling microscopic screening and efficient and specific isolation of individual cells. Using the platform, we screened and isolated single human B cells from convalescent COVID-19 patients, resulting in the discovery of 2 monoclonal antibodies with high affinity and in vitro neutralizing potential against SARS-CoV-2. Owing to its performance, we envision this platform to contribute to the discovery of unique mAbs and other cell products, and to gain insights in numerous biological mechanisms, thereby advancing life science research.
An apparatus for single molecule DNA-identification using antenna-enhanced fluorescence
Fraunhofer-Institut für Physikalische Messtechnik IPM
Germany
Single molecule detection via plasmonic amplification of fluorescence may become an alternative to PCR. We present a novel apparatus designed for the point-of-care, which can prepare, conduct and analyze plasmonic assays on a chip. In comparison to conventional PCR methods, the device benefits from a reduced technical complexity. This is reflected in the small sized low cost device, and a fast analysis. Additionally, the method can – in principle – also be applied to different targets like antibodies/antigens. A disposable cartridge is used to process the chemical reactions. Fluorescence signals from a microarray are detected in a miniaturized microscope with < 2 µm resolution. The technical realization and first results for amplified DNA-detection are subject to this presentation. Funded by BMBF, 03VP03892
Multi-Responsive Hydrogel Microneedle Sensors for Multiplexed Chemical Analytics
MacEwan University
CANADA
In this presentation we will demonstrate our flexible microneedle electrochemical probes based on biomimetric redox responsive composite hydrogels for in-situ multiplex detection of biologically relevant chemical markers, e.g., redox biomarkers, pH, biogenic amines, antioxidants, lactate, cortisol, and adrenaline. The composite hydrogels in these sensors simultaneously serve as an interface for biological fluid sampling and a medium for electrochemical sensing. Our presentation will demonstrate our e-skin sensory devices for real-time wireless monitoring of on-plant stress diagnostics, on-packaging food spoilage analytics, and wearable ‘emotion’ sensing in humans. In all cases, the sensors utilize non-invasive biological fluids, e.g., sweat and interstitial fluids for animals, and plants apoplastic exudates. The wearable sensors are aimed for applications in precision agri-food &nutrition, and health&wellness monitoring.
Ultimate flexibility in dispensing technology
M24You GmbH
Germany
M24You is focused on supplying instruments for dispensing technology from R&D up to fully automated production lines. These instruments enable various volume ranges - from picolitre (pL) till microlitre (µL) volumes, with the most accurate cv (<= 2%) available. By controlling all variables, the manufacturer M2-Automation, implements necessary conditions for biomolecules to have enough time for their binding on the target surface. In the binding process, there are many factors, which play an important role in receiving excellent result – the crucial factors are hydrophobicity, surface tension, temperature, humidity, viscosity and stability of the molecule. Within M24You/ M2-Automation we manage to control them successfully. Together with our application specialist team, we design and manufacture specific dispensing solution for your specific application.
Systems biology of organ-on-chip models
Hans Knöll Institute Jena
Germany
Organ-on-chip systems provide excellent tools to study the behavior of various biological structures under physiological and pathological conditions. We have investigated the effects of bacterial, viral and fungal infections in lung-, intestine-, and liver-on-chip models by means of an image-based systems biology approach. This aspect combines automated image processing and mathematical modeling to quantify biological processes. For instance, fungal invasion in the lung-on-chip model provided quantifiable measures of the behavior of hyphae under the effect of immune cells or antifungal agents. We measured the orientation distribution of the hyphae growing to the endothelial side of the tissue. Similarly, the (co-)infections by bacteria and viruses in the on-chip organs were evaluated by the image-based quantification of epithelial and endothelial cell damage.
Development of a 4D-in vitro-test system for specificity and potency of 3rd generation chimeric antigen receptor-T-cells (CAR-T-cells) based on microcavity array-bioreactors
Karlsruhe Institute of Technbology
GERMANY
We have developed a model of a leukemic bone marrow for the in vitro evaluation of chimeric antigen receptor-T- cell (CAR) specificity and potency. The model is based on a polymer microcavity array that is arranged on a chip which is then inserted into a bioreactor housing. For the establishment of the model we used human mesenchymal stromal cells and the ALL line Nalm-6. After 24 h of co-culture we added CAR-T-cells (effector:target-ratio = 10:1) and cultivated the chip for 72 h. With this model we were able to show that CAR-T-cells attack leukemic cells in their niche and that after 72 h only 12% of the leukemic cells could be detected.
A universal platform for nucleic acid based point-of-care diagnostics
Fraunhofer-Institut für Physikalische Messtechnik IPM
GERMANY
We developed a novel platform based on polymerase chain reaction (PCR). By combining microfluidic integration and a fully automated processing unit, we achieve an overall processing of about 45 minutes. The microfluidic elements are combined into a disposable disk with no active elements which has all reagents prestored. All active components, particularly the rotation unit, the heating unit, and the fluorescence readout module are integrated into a fully automated device designed for the point-of-care. The functional units of the platform will be presented. Special emphasis is given on the fast thermocycling based on a non-equilibrium approach with direct infrared liquid heating. The platform has been tested with assays for resistant pathogens. Funded by BMBF, 031A586C.
3D Printing: An Accelerator for Customized Microfluidic Applications
Leibniz Universität Hannover - Institut für Technische Chemie
Germany
Driven by its ever-increasing resolution, 3D printing is revolutionizing the access to microfluidic fabrication: Rapid prototyping of complex internal structures using biocompatible materials enables the fabrication of customized microfluidic systems, which are being used in a growing number of laboratories in life sciences and biotechnology. This presentation will provide guidance for the successful transfer from design to application of microfluidic systems using 3D printing. A particular focus will be on two 3D-printed platforms as feasible and cost-effective solutions for passive or active parallelization and automatization of microfluidic devices. By including small fittings (e.g., Luer lock), micromixers, or servo-controlled microvalves, the potential integration of customizable 3D-printed microfluidic systems into biotechnological applications such as antimicrobial susceptibility testing, organ-on-a-chip, or live-cell-imaging will be highlighted.
Miniaturization, multiplexing and single cell handling– an excellent foundation for next generation diagnostics
SCIENION
Germany
SCIENION’s proprietary non-contact dispensing technology is a central hub seamlessly integrated with upstream and downstream processing steps for many next generation diagnostic products. Further development of array based analytics focuses on new components and methods as surface functionalized substrates, probe deposition techniques, strategies of probe immobilization, target preparation and incubation as well as label and label free detection methods to improve sensitivity, reproducibility and to minimize material consumption. The transfer of these systems from open R&D platforms using e.g. microplates to cartridge systems using fully integrated microfluidic chips or biosensors is another goal to enable fully automated diagnostics in the clinical laboratory and Point of Care applications. We will present recent results on miniaturization of DNA or protein based diagnostic test and single cell application using SCIENION technologies.
Magnetic surface microrollers against physiological flows in living microfluidic chips
Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems
Germany
Controlled microrobotic navigation in blood vessels holds significant potential to revolutionize targeted drug delivery. We use microfluidic platforms to test the performance of the magnetic microrollers in physiological flows. The microrobotic system consist of cell-sized silica microparticles half-coated with magnetic material, while the silica face has cancer cell selective antibodies and drugs. The microfluidic setup is composed of a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) top piece encompassing fluidic connections, a double-sided tape defining the channel shape and height, and a glass bottom piece. The endothelialized microfluidic channels provide robust platform for the testing of surface microrollers in physiological flows.
Gate-coupling and Single-trap Effects for Sensitivity Enhancement in Nanowire Field-effect Transistor Biosensors
Forschungszentrum Jülich, Bioelectronics (IBI-3)
Germany
Nanowires are unique nanomaterial promising for many fundamental studies as well as for nano - and bioelectronics applications. We develop biosensors based on nanowires for the early detection of cardiovascular and Alzheimer’s diseases. Based on our comprehensive studies on transport and noise phenomena in the fabricated devices, we propose novel approaches on the basis of gate-coupling and single-trap effects for the detection of the target biomarkers with enhanced sensitivity for advanced biosensing. The developed approach opens prospects for diagnosis of the diseases in real-time at the early stages when therapy can be effectively applied to restore the healthy state of the patient.
Precise Contactless Spotting for Lab-on-Chip Application
MICRODROP TECHNOLOGIES GMBH
Germany
Lab-on-chip devices as small microfluidic devices equipped with microchannels carry out diagnostic tests by enabling reactions between patient samples and reagents. The devices deliver test results with very small sample volumes in a short period of time. For production of lab-on-chip devices a precise, fast material deposition method is needed. Typically, the devices are produced at high numbers under high throughput conditions. The substrates may be made of different materials but all have a structured surface like channels. Deposition or Spotting of reagents onto the chip is a demanding task and requires filling of small cavities and microchannels with a high accuracy. This can be done with a microspotting platform based on in inkjet technology. The flexibility of this technology allows solutions adapted to the specific customer needs. It is demonstrated how high accurate the volume of spotted reagents and precise of placement is achieved under high throughput production conditions. www.microdrop.de
R&D Solutions Using Mass-Producible Versatile Acoustofluidic Chips
Leibniz IFW Dresden
GERMANY
Surface acoustic wave (SAW)-based acoustofluidics is a promising technology for versatile applications in the manipulation of liquids, cells and (bio-) particles. This includes, among others, the generation of aerosols, liquid mixing, focusing and sorting of different cells or particles. Current limits for their production and application in an industrial scale are complex fabrication process, low performing materials and non-optimized periphery. We present our developments of new-generation SAW-based acoustofluidic devices employing chips with precisely integrated microchannels, task-specific periphery and automation solutions to support a variety of your application scenarios.
PowderMEMS - Integration of porous structures on wafer-level
Fraunhofer Institute for Silicon Technology ISIT
GERMANY
This talk presents PowderMEMS, a novel technology for the creation of porous microstructures on wafer-level. The PowderMEMS process solidifies micron-sized particles via atomic layer deposition (ALD) to create three-dimensional microstructures on planar substrates. The process offers numerous degrees of freedom for the design of functional (Bio-)MEMS, such as a wide choice of different materials and the precise fabrication of 3D volumes at substrate level with a defined degree of porosity. Porous PowderMEMS microstructures tolerate post-processing to integrate additional functional structures such as electrodes or heaters. The potential of PowderMEMS towards bioanalysis and biosensors is discussed and applications such as microscale chromatography and catalysis are presented.
Scanning Probe-Based Rapid Prototyping of Single Cell Chips
Center for Physical Sciences and Technology
Lithuania
We present scanning-probe based techniques for fabrication of sub-micron surface features for single-cell arraying and controlled adhesion. Such rapid prototyping can be implemented by commercial scanning probe (SP) microscopy instrumentation, in the regular chemical laboratory environment. Our key process is direct chemical writing at a speed up to 100 µm s-1, with an SP functioning as a nanofluidic pen for transferring mixtures of surface-selective bifunctional compounds and lipids. We fabricate and subsequently replicate a few mm-sized chip areas, consisting of protein features of virtually any geometry, at a submicron resolution. We demonstrate the utility of the SP nanolithography in the design of subcellular patterns for programming cytoskeletal architectures and developing new single-cell sensing platforms.
Innovative approach for dynamic flow regimes on cerebral organoid maturation
Department of Bioengineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Ege
TURKEY
A bioengineered whole brain organoids that can be widely self-organized by iPSCs-derived cells, have become imperative for modelling various neurological disease in a physiological and functional manner. One of the most critical points in brain organoid development is the initiation of dynamic flow conditions that support oxygen and nutrient diffusion to the tissue while promoting neuronal self-organization and organoid survival. In addition to traditional methods, microfluidic systems have been investigated that provide controlled dynamic flow conditions by imitating laminar blood flow in the brain, support growth factor diffusion, metabolite exchange in larger sizes and survival for a long time. A molecularly-functionally-structurally matured brain organoids have been formed with high harvestability using the microfluidic platform that is designed in our group.
Fabrication of 3D Amphiphilic Shape-Coded Microparticles to Spontaneously Form Uniform Reaction Volumes for Amplified Immunoassays
TUM
GERMANY
Here, we present a versatile platform to compartmentalize and perform reactions in uniform nanoliter-scale volumes using microscale multi-material particles that form a single droplet per particle for an amplification assay. Our system provides customizable shape-coded particle for multiplexing, flexibility to be scaled up, and ease of implementation with existing amplified assay workflows, enabling 100s of parallel reactions upon simple mixing of reagents. We manufacture the multi-material particles using a 3D printed device to run a hydrodynamically stable co-flow of four different streams of polymer precursors that take a cylindrical co-axial shape. We have fabricated particles with distinct cross-sectional shapes and different dimensions. These particles with a hydrophilic inner hollow layer and hydrophobic outer layer provide a versatile and scalable platform to form highly uniform aqueous droplets (200pL to 6nL) in the center of the particles suspended in an oil phase.
3D microfabrication for biological and biomedical applications. Introducing the first bioprinter enabling sub-micron printing resolution.
CELLINK & NANOSCRIBE
Sweden
The Quantum X bio is the first 3D bioprinter of its kind; enabling sub-micron printing resolution, and raising the bar for high-precision 3D bioprinting. Powered by NANOSCRIBE’s proprietary Two-Photon Grayscale Lithography (2GL®) technology and CELLINK’s award-winning cell-friendly solutions, the Quantum X bio has been customized and reimagined for cell biologists and biomedical engineers. High-throughput batch production and precision printing meet patented Clean Chamber sterilization technologies, advanced temperature controls, metadata collection, and biocompatibility to empower scientists and engineers with the fastest and most shape-accurate 3D printer on the market. In this live product demo, we will discuss how the Quantum X bio will accelerate innovation and production in critical application areas for biomedical technologies, tissue engineering, cell biology, and regenerative medicine.
Advanced methods for the production of next generation flow reactors out of glass
Little Things Factory GmbH
Germany
Flow chemistry and the controlled generation of liquid micro droplets with uniform characteristics will be one of the future key technologies in research and in industrial production. The phase separation of liquids will be another one. This work describes recent innovations in the field of laser etching in glass and the application of this technology in these fields of flow chemistry.
Development of a microfluidic platform for high sensitive, in-flow living samples detection
Istituto Italiano di Tecnologia
ITALY
In this talk an innovative configuration for in-flow detection of living samples in a lab-on-chip will be presented. By the exploitment of a hydrodynamic focus designed with an innovative configuration we are able to exactly localize the samples at the center of the microchannels. This allows us to detect them by collecting the fluorescence light emitted by pre-treated samples, or by collecting their scattered light. This kind of chip can offer a solid protocol for several applications, for example it can be used as a high sensitive, high throughput device for the detection of different kind of pollutants inside water, e.g. bacteria or metals.
Conference language is English.
CellME Berlin - International Forum on Cell Manufacturing & Engineering.