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Microfluidic chip for high-pressure freezing of biological samples for cryo-FIB-SEM and Raman micro-spectroscopy analysis.

Number: 0079

Author(s) : LAZNICKA T., JEZEK J., HRUBANOVA K., KRZYZANEK V.

Summary

This study presents a novel microfluidic chip designed for high-pressure freezing (HPF) of biological samples using liquid nitrogen. The chip enables rapid freezing without ice crystallization, preserving structural integrity for high-resolution analysis. Surface of frozen samples can subsequently be examined by cryogenic scanning electron microscopy (cryo-SEM) or the volume analysis can be investigate using a focused ion beam in cryogenic conditions (cryo-FIB-SEM). Additionally, the chip allows real-time manipulation of cells or particles using Raman tweezers followed by Raman micro-spectroscopy before cryo-fixation. The chip, composed of two bonded polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) layers, features various microchannels for precise fluid manipulation, a sapphire disk (or copper plate) to optimize heat transfer between the coolant and the liquid inside the chip, and ports for seamless embedding sample. HPF overcomes the limitations of traditional cryo-fixation methods, allowing rapid freezing of samples without ice crystallization and ensuring high-resolution structural preservation.
The chip is particularly used for studying microorganisms that produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), a promising biodegradable alternative to petrochemical plastics. Manufactured with advanced microfabrication techniques, this device combines precision, versatility, and compatibility with advanced imaging methods, expanding the scope of microbiological and biomedical research.

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Details

  • Original title: Microfluidic chip for high-pressure freezing of biological samples for cryo-FIB-SEM and Raman micro-spectroscopy analysis.
  • Record ID : 30033907
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: Technology
  • Source: Cryogenics 2025. Proceedings of the 18th IIR International Conference on Cryogenics, Prague, Czech Republic, 7-11 April 2025.
  • Publication date: 2025/04/07
  • DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18462/iir.cryo.2025.0079

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