Biomedical Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Fall 11-14-2018

Abstract

This dissertation describes fabrication of devices and other tools for biomedical applications through the integration of acoustofluidic systems with bio separation assays, instrumentation components, and soft materials interfaces. For example, we engineer a new class of transparent acoustic flow chambers ideal for optical interrogation. We demonstrate efficacy of these devices by enhancing the signal for high throughput acoustic flow cytometry, capable of robust particle focusing across multiple parallel flowing streams. We also investigate an automated sampling system to determine the parameters of transient particle stream focusing in between sample boluses and air bubbles to model a high throughput, multi-sampling acoustic flow cytometry platform. As an extension of our acoustic separations work, we have created a proof of concept lab in a syringe assay to separate elastomeric biofunctionalized negative acoustic contrast particles (NACs) from red blood cells in dilute blood. Finally, we overcome the challenge of fabricating cell culture hydrogels in water/water emulsion systems by engineering an easily deployable microfluidic device that uses acoustic actuation from an audio speaker to create culture microgels that generate cancer cell spheroid-like assemblies. Across all these application spaces, we have illustrated the versatility of integrating acoustofluidic technologies and soft materials across multiple biomedical engineering platforms.

Language

English

Keywords

Acoustofluidics, Soft Materials, Point of Care, Flow Cytometry, Microfluidics, Hydrogel

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Biomedical Engineering

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Biomedical Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Nick J Carroll

Second Committee Member

Steven W Graves

Third Committee Member

Gabriel P Lopez

Fourth Committee Member

Andrew P Shreve

Fifth Committee Member

Menake E Piyasena

Download

Share

COinS