Label-free detection of multidrug resistance in K562 cells through isolated 3D-electrode dielectrophoresis

Dielectrophoresis (DEP), a technique used to separate particles based on different sizes and/or dielectric properties under nonuniform electric field, is a promising method to be applied in label-free, rapid, and effective cell manipulation and separation. In this study, a microelectromechanical systems-based, isolated 3D-electrode DEP device has been designed and implemented for the label-free detection of multidrug resistance in K562 leukemia cells, based on the differences in their cytoplasmic conductivities. Cells were hydrodynamically focused to the 3D-electrode arrays, placed on the side walls of the microchannel, through V-shaped parylene-C obstacles. 3D-electrodes extruded along the z-direction provide uniformly distributed DEP force through channel depth. Cell suspension containing resistant and sensitive cancer cells with 1:100 ratio was continuously flown through the channel at a rate of 10 L/min. Detection was realized at 48.64 MHz, the cross-over frequency of sensitive K562 cells, at which sensitive cells flow with the fluid, while the resistant ones are trapped by positive DEP force. Device can be operated at considerably low voltages (<9 V-pp). This is achieved by means of a very thin (0.5 m) parylene coating on electrodes, providing the advantages offered by the isolation of electrodes from the sample, while the working voltage can still be kept low. Results prove that the presented DEP device can provide an efficient platform for the detection of multidrug resistance in leukemia, in a label-free manner.