CAREER: Development of Bio-MEMS for determining cell structure using microfluidics and bio impedance

该提案的研究目标是：（a）开发新型MEMS传感器和技术，使用生物阻抗测量对单个细胞/生物体进行可靠和重复的成像，（B）将微流体传感器集成到流通系统中，以开发通用识别技术，以及（c）理解和分析信号处理中的挑战，使差分检测成为可能。该研究成果将有助于在微观尺度上对生物阻抗科学和技术的基本理解和优化。该研究将建立所需的基础科学，使开发一个单一的通用传感器，将能够识别细胞的基础上他们的生物阻抗map.智力优点：拟议的研究整合了两个研究领域的发展（生物阻抗和微流体）在一个新的方法，将推进知识和理解在不同的领域，从仪器到检测.该研究将为不同环境下的定量诊断提供基础。这是跨领域的重大进步。该研究团队由不同领域的专家组成（微加工、微流体和系统开发-PI、组织工程和临床测试-合作者），并具有独特的优势来完成这项任务。更广泛的影响：这项研究将培养学生在新兴的跨学科领域（微加工、电子、生物学和组织工程）。该研究有代表性不足的群体（少数民族，妇女）的参与，并通过合作和交流在全球范围内促进伙伴关系。研究结果将通过纳入方案研究所开发的课程和单元、示范和外联等方式广泛传播。

The research objectives of this proposal are: (a) Development of novel MEMS sensors and techniques to reliably and repeatedly image individual cells/organisms using bio-impedance measurements, (b) Integration of microfluidic sensors into flow-through system to develop a generic identification technique and (c) Understand and analyze the challenges in signal processing enabling differential detection. Research outcomes of this proposal would facilitate the fundamental understanding and optimizing of the science and technology of bio-impedance at a micro scale. The research will establish the fundamental science required to enable the development of a single generic sensor that would be capable to identify cells based on their bio-impedance maps.Intellectual Merit: Proposed research integrates developments in two research areas (bio-impedance and microfluidics) in a novel approach that will advance the knowledge and understanding in diverse fields, from instrumentation to detection. The research will provide a basis for quantitative diagnosis in diverse environments. This is a major advance across fields. The research team comprises of experts in different areas (microfabrication, microfluidics and systems development -PI, tissue engineering and clinical testing-collaborators) and is uniquely positioned to accomplish the task.Broader Impact: This research will train students in emerging cross-disciplinary areas (microfabrication, electronics, biology and tissue engineering). The research has participation of underrepresented groups (minority, women) and fosters partnerships at a global scale through collaboration and exchange. The results of the research will be widely disseminated through inclusion in courses and modules developed by PI, demonstrations and outreach.