Figure 2.

Simulations of the device layout and working principle. (a) Finite element simulation of the fluid velocity in the microfluidic channel (Inlet pressure: 0.1 mbar). (b) Finite element simulation of the fluid velocity in the microfluidic channel used to determine the ideal length of the channel ensuring the trapping of a single cell (Inlet pressure: 0.1 mbar). (c) Finite element simulation of the electric field in the channel. The field gradient is higher in the trapping region of the cell, generating a negative dielectrophoretic (DEP) force sufficient for the release of the cell from the trap (voltage difference between electrodes: 10 V).