Automation of microhand system for measuring the characteristics of intracellular structure

Abstract

In recent years, with the development of the life science field, there has been an increasing demand for the measurement of cell characteristics. In our laboratory, we developed a micro hand system that uses two end-effectors like chopsticks to grasp and manipulate objects. We also succeeded in measuring the stiffness of cells by installing a force sensor on the end-effector tip to measure the reaction force during grasping. However, the conventional microhand system has a problem of stable grasping for measuring the characteristics of intracellular structure. Furthermore, in order to measure the stiffness accurately, it is necessary to perform precise grasping movements manually, which places a heavy burden on the operator. In this study, to solve these problems, we constructed automated microhand system using optical tweezers and an optical system combining two microscopes with different magnifications to enhance the working area.