Temporal gradients in microfluidic systems to probe cellular dynamics: A review

[Display omitted] ► Review article covering 2009–present. ► Topics include microfluidic devices capable of producing gradients with a focus on mammalian cells. ► Also included are selected examples of these waveforms on cell dynamics. Microfluidic devices have found a unique place in cellular studie...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Analytica chimica acta 2012-09, Vol.743, p.9-18
Main Authors: Dhumpa, Raghuram, Roper, Michael G.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Analytical chemistry
Animals
Attenuation
Cellular
Chemistry
Devices
Dynamical systems
Dynamics
Eukaryote
Exact sciences and technology
Frequency response
Humans
Mathematical analysis
Microfluidic Analytical Techniques - instrumentation
Microfluidic Analytical Techniques - methods
Microfluidics
Neurons - physiology
Pulsing
Stimulants
Temporal logic
Waveforms
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Summary:[Display omitted] ► Review article covering 2009–present. ► Topics include microfluidic devices capable of producing gradients with a focus on mammalian cells. ► Also included are selected examples of these waveforms on cell dynamics. Microfluidic devices have found a unique place in cellular studies due to the ease of fabrication, their ability to provide long-term culture, or the seamless integration of downstream measurements into the devices. The accurate and precise control of fluid flows also allows unique stimulant profiles to be applied to cells that have been difficult to perform with conventional devices. In this review, we describe and provide examples of microfluidic systems that have been used to generate temporal gradients of stimulants, such as waveforms or pulses, and how these profiles have been used to produce biological insights into mammalian cells that are not typically revealed under static concentration gradients. We also discuss the inherent analytical challenges associated with producing and maintaining temporal gradients in these devices.
ISSN:0003-2670
1873-4324
DOI:10.1016/j.aca.2012.07.006