Noninvasive Analysis and Manipulation of Single Cells Using MEMS Devices

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9807384AllenMiniaturized measurement instruments have been developed in the field of MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) and their entry into biological studies will add a whole new dimension for investigations in microbiology. The MEMS actuators have a length scale appropriate for probing on the sub-micron level and will provide a quantum leap in biological measurement capability for characterizing healthy as well as pathological cells at the single cell level, without destroying them. We will simultaneously apply two new MEMS micro-instruments to a study of the early stages of development of a single mouse embryo. We will probe the embryo to measure the embryo's internal fluid pressure, viscosity, dynamic response and elasticity of the embryo waft, and simultaneously measure the thermal activity (caloritnetry) of the embryo. This project will thus provide the essential groundwork for launching a larger project involving all types of cells.***