Ultrafast automated image cytometry for cancer detection

Annu Int Conf IEEE Eng Med Biol Soc. 2013:2013:129-32. doi: 10.1109/EMBC.2013.6609454.

Abstract

We present a method for ultrafast automated single-cell optical microscopy that performs blur-free image acquisition and non-stop real-time image-recording and classification of cells during high-speed flow. This method is based on a unique integration of ultrafast optical imaging, self-focusing microfluidics, optoelectronics, and information technology. To show the system's utility, we demonstrate high-throughput image-based screening of rare breast cancer cells in blood with an unprecedented throughput of 100,000 cells/s and a record false positive rate of one in a million. This method is expected to be effective for early, noninvasive, low-cost detection of cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Automation*
  • Blood Cells / pathology
  • Breast Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Cytometry / instrumentation
  • Image Cytometry / methods*
  • MCF-7 Cells
  • Microfluidics
  • Microscopy
  • ROC Curve
  • Time Factors