Real-Time High-Accuracy Micropipette Aspiration for Characterizing Mechanical Properties of Biological Cells

This paper presents a micropipette aspiration system and a cell contour visual tracking algorithm for realtime, high-accuracy mechanical characterization of individual cells. The computer vision tracking algorithm measures cell deformation parameters in real time (30Hz) with a resolution down to 0.21 pixel, significantly enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the micropipette aspiration technique. Representing another advantage over manual measurements in terms of characterization accuracies, the micropipette aspiration system features precise synchronization between cell deformations and applied pressure changes. Experimental results on both solid-like cells (interstitial cells) and liquid-like cells (neutrophils) demonstrate the effectiveness of the system and the visual tracking algorithm. Among several characterized mechanical parameters, the viscoelastic properties of porcine aortic valve interstitial cells were, for the first time, quantified in this study.