Giant liposome sorting/collection device: For individual analysis of artificial cell-models

Abstract

In this report, we will present a novel liposome handling method on microfluidic channel. For the quantitative analysis of individual giant liposomes, a microfluidic device with multi-pillar was designed. Liposomes suspension from neutral phospholipids prepared by natural swelling method was introduced into the separation device. As a result, giant liposomes are safely trapped in the microscope viewfield along with the internal pillar within a weak flow. In the condition, small solutes (excess dye molecules, small liposomes) are washed away through the pillars. This system should be useful for time-course analysis of individual cell-sized liposomes.