An acoustofluidic sputum liquefier

Lab Chip. 2015 Aug 7;15(15):3125-31. doi: 10.1039/c5lc00539f.

Abstract

We demonstrate the first microfluidic-based on-chip liquefaction device for human sputum samples. Our device is based on an acoustofluidic micromixer using oscillating sharp edges. This acoustofluidic sputum liquefier can effectively and uniformly liquefy sputum samples at a throughput of 30 μL min(-1). Cell viability and integrity are maintained during the sputum liquefaction process. Our acoustofluidic sputum liquefier can be conveniently integrated with other microfluidic units to enable automated on-chip sputum processing and analysis.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Cell Survival
  • Eosinophils
  • Equipment Design
  • Flow Cytometry
  • Humans
  • Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / instrumentation*
  • Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / methods
  • Neutrophils
  • Sonication
  • Specimen Handling / instrumentation*
  • Specimen Handling / methods
  • Sputum / cytology*
  • Sputum / physiology*