A quantitative observation and imaging of single tumor cell migration and deformation using a multi-gap microfluidic device representing the blood vessel

A microfluidic device was developed for quantifying the migratory and deformability capabilities of a single tumor cell using direct imaging. It was fabricated using photolithography and is made of polydimethysiloxane. Chemotaxis approach was used for directing cell movement, using 10 μm microgaps to restrict the migration to a single cell. Each cell's migration rate is quantified as a measure of its distance traveled over time taken. Real-time recording of cell deformation under physiological flow was performed, and the elongation index and surface area change of the cells were compared. Three human tumor cell lines viz. HepG2, HeLa and MDA-MB-435S were used to verify the operation and methodology of the device. Their migration rates ranged from 5 to 15 μm/h, consistent with other scientific reports. By reducing the microgap width to 3 μm, it was found that the cells moved along the row of microgaps but were unable to migrate across the microgaps. Subsequent deformation of the cells through the gaps further showed that their migratory capability might be governed by their deformation ability and the deformation stress on their membranes. The strategy of targeting cancer cell membrane for rupture may provide a therapy for metastasis. Being a valuable tool for rapid quantification of a single cell's migratory capability, this device should be helpful for pharmacologic and drug screening, investigation of factors that regulate cell migration and deformation.