Single-cell mass-density measurements using microchannel gradient centrifugation.

ABSTRACT: We present a microchannel-based adaptation of mass density-gradient centrifugation for the mass density measurement of cells or microparticles. The workflow consists of three basic steps: Microchannel filling, centrifugation, and microscopy. Microchannel filling and subsequent centrifugation of two liquids with different densities allows the instantaneous, precise, and repeatable generation of a one-dimensional mass-density gradient and the simultaneous sedimentation of cells or particles of interest to a point where their mass density is equal to the gradient's mass density. We introduce two different methods, calibration particles and tracer molecules, for microscopic mass density readout. We demonstrate the measurement principle by measuring the mass density of yeast cells and show that

SUBMITTER: Soller R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12909970 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature