A smart multi-pipette for hand-held operation of microfluidic devices

Abstract

A smart multi-pipette for hand-held operation of microfluidic devices is presented and applied to cytotoxicity assays and micro-droplet generation. This method enables a continuous-flow and accurate pumping simply by pushing the plunger of the smart multi-pipette, thereby obviating the need for auxiliary equipment and special expertise in microfluidics. We applied the smart multi-pipette to a cytotoxicity assay using a gradient-generating device and water droplet generation using a T-junction device. In combination with general microfluidic devices, the smart multi-pipette enables the devices to successfully perform their own functions.