Assembly of Single Cells Array using Image Dielectrophoresis

Cell arraying with single cell per trap is demonstrated using image dielectrophoresis(DEP) and leads to a 5 by 5 single cells array. The tunable energy wells, which were induced by established patterns and image control, were used to confine NIH/3T3 cells. Image was used to help cells overcome the energy barriers. It allows the controllability to rearrange cells, including locally dislodging the excess cells and repositioning them in non-occupant traps. The viability of post-assembled cells that were identified by fluorescence staining of FDA is about 90%. The continuous temperature monitoring shows that the device used reached its thermal equilibrium of 36degC, close to the 3T3 culture temperature of 37degC.