NIRT: Nanoscale Manipulation of Biological Entities using Magnetic Fluids and Fields

Massachusetts Institute Of Technology, Cambridge MA

Investigators

Abstract

PROPOSAL: 0304128 PI: Patrick Doyle, MIT ABSTRACT This proposal was received in response to Nanoscale Science and Engineering initiative, NSF 02-148, category NIRT. The proposed research program focuses on using magnetic fluids (based on magnetic nanoparticles) and fields to develop new methods of separation of biological particles such as cell fragments, DNA, viruses and inclusion bodies in bioMEMs devices and for controlling cell function. Process fluids will be seeded with nanoscopic (10-20 nm) magnetic particles suspended in a fluid phase to form magnetic fluids. Control of the spatial distribution of the nanoparticles will attained by manipulation of the direction and strength of the applied magnetic fields. Non-magnetic biological entities suspended in such a fluid would be subjected to magnetophoretic forces under a magnetic field gradient, and their migration rates will be determined by their size and morphology, which will permit separations based on density, size, and perhaps charge. In a related approach, magnetic beads will be aligned in an arroy of columns, and this array can serve as an effective sieving medium for the electrophoretic resolution of DNA fragments. The project is being funded by two programs within CTS: Particulate and Multiphase Processes and Fluid Dynamics and Hydraulics