Cell Testing with MicroChannel Systems

Biological applications of microchannels are driven by the need for cost-effective handling of very small sample volumes along with parallel processing. The Lab-on-a-Chip concept could meet this need. One example involves techniques for 

In conjunction with membrane-based blood oxygenators for example, microchannels offer improved gas exchange efficiency and reduce the volume of blood required for initial priming. A device developed by Himg et al. [281] involves a stack of 16 plate units incorporating 110 pm deep by 230 pm wide microchannels sandwiched with oxygen permeable membranes (Fig. 7.22). Experimental results not only show improved gas exchange efficiency over both macrochannels and theoretical predictions, but also a reduction in apparent blood viscosity. 

Even studies involving cell shape and function [283] and cell membrane potential [284] are best performed in a microchannel device. The microchannels allow the cells to elongate and be imaged without high shear flow. The microchannel devices for measuring flow are used to minimize the amount of reagent and control its mixing. 

---

Today, much of the product development conducted in pharmaceutical company laboratories is carried out in microflow systems that allow a total conversion of reactant to product that is rapid, efficient and selective on a scale of 1-100 g for activity testing. The past few years have seen several groups seek to develop electrolysis cell designs that can be used in such equipment. The Southampton group have attempted to develop cells that combine good performance with an appearance similar to other equipment used for routine microfiow synthesis. This led to a cell based on a single-patterned microchannel, parallel... 

---