Numerical Analysis and Experimental Verification of On-chip Microdroplet Electroporation

Abstract

We are generating basic data for the development of a device that can efficiently introduce genes into cells. Based on the electroporation method using microdroplets developed by Shibata et al., we will store the data necessary for the development of the device through numerical analysis. This system is expected to be applied to advanced medical technologies, especially mass production of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPS cells) and intracellular delivery methods for genome editing. In this study, we simulated how the physical properties of the fluid, especially the change in surface tension between the two liquids and the change in viscosity of the insulating oil, affect the droplet diameter in the formation of droplets in a cross-shaped channel, and investigated the control of the droplet diameter. In addition, to confirm the consistency of the numerical analysis, we will conduct actual verification through experiments and reconcile them to create a more reliable database.