Single Cell Deposition

Abstract

This chapter describes an experimental protocol for single cell pick-place using a general-purposed micromanipulator and a micropipette. The micromanipulation system uses computer vision and motion control approaches to accurately pick up a single cell, transfer it to a desired substrate/location, and deposit it at a specified location. A traditional glass micropipette having a diameter larger than the cell is used to aspirate a whole cell into the micropipette for pick-place. This protocol is designed to manipulate and position single cells within a variety of microenvironments. The system is broadly applicable to any type of substrate and can manipulate multiple cell types in an end-user customizable manner. The presented protocol is for aspirating and transferring single cells after trypsinization. Additional steps are required for pick-place cells in their adherent state, such as local trypsinization or mechanical cutting. The tool for pick-place of cells can be useful as a stand-alone or bolstering technology for single-cell studies. © 2012 Elsevier Inc.