Menarini Silicon Biosystems has combined the ability to manipulate individual cells using DEP technology with high-quality image-based cell selection to create the DEPArray™ System. This automated platform enables users to identify and recover specific individual cells of interest from complex, heterogeneous samples, including dissociated FFPE sections.
DEPArray™ technology is based on the ability of a non-uniform electric field to exert forces on neutral, polarizable particles, such as cells, that are suspended in a liquid. This electrokinetic principle, called dielectrophoresis (DEP), can be used to trap cells in DEP “cages” by creating an electric field above a subset of electrodes in an array that is in counter-phase with the electric field of adjacent electrodes. When a DEP cage is moved by a change in the electric field pattern, the trapped cell moves with it.
Unique benefits of DEPArray™ technology include
- Single Cell Resolution
DEP cages allow the trapping, manipulation, and recovery of individual cells on the DEPArray™ System. - High Fidelity Recovery
Multiple cells and cell types that may be present in a heterogeneous sample can be selected for collection using DEPArray™ technology, either as single cells or as enriched homogenous populations. - Viability
Cells are moved without contact or friction. DEP cage movement is gentle and exerts no shear force or strain on cells. The low voltage, megahertz frequency DEP cages impart no electrical or charge-based impact on cells. Recovered cells remain intact and viable for further molecular analysis, including cell culture.
Available through the Single Cell Analysis Facility (SCAF)
Contact Details
Director: Mike Kelly, Ph.D.
37 Convent Dr., Rm 1042A
Bethesda, MD 20892-3729
240-760-6301
michael.kelly3@nih.gov