Journal
SENSORS AND ACTUATORS B-CHEMICAL
Volume 274, Issue -, Pages 645-653Publisher
ELSEVIER SCIENCE SA
DOI: 10.1016/j.snb.2018.07.168
Keywords
Droplet generation; Self-sufficient; Miniaturised analytical devices; Cell encapsulation; Cell-based assays
Funding
- Australian Research Council [DECRA DE170100239, DP170102138, DP180102049]
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Here, we present a self-sufficient droplet generation system using a highly porous elastomeric sponge. Upon manual compression, aqueous solutions can be loaded into or unloaded from the sponge. The surface of the sponge accommodates hundreds of small orifices, which facilitate generation of microscale droplets when compressed inside an oil container. The physics underlying the generation and size distribution of droplets is explored. Proof-of-concept experiments demonstrate the capability of this method for encapsulation of human monocytes inside droplets. The droplets are chemically isolated, mechanically stable, and do not evaporate due to the presence of oil in the microwell. The cells settle at the lowest surface of the droplets without using any secondary immobilisation mechanisms. These features facilitate chemical stimulation and microscopic analysis of encapsulated cell clusters in a quick and parallel manner. The simplicity and self-sufficiency of this method makes it suitable for conducting various droplet-based cellular assays.
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