Hematological analysis is crucial in diagnosing and monitoring blood-related disorders, such as anemia [1]. However, the limitations of commercially available hematology analyzers, including high cost and substantial space and weight requirements, restrict their deployment to specific laboratory settings. Herein, we employ a novel cell tracking velocimetry (CTV) device designed to precisely measure the magnetic susceptibility of particles and individual cells. The device comprises a microfluidic channel positioned between two permanent magnets, generating a well-defined magnetic field gradient. High-speed cameras capture the motion of particles and cells as they traverse the channel, facilitating accurate tracking of their trajectories. By analyzing the velocity profiles and employing mathematical models, the magnetic susceptibility of the particles and cells can be determined with high precision [2]. We will employ the CTV device to measure several hematological parameters from fresh human blood samples, as well as their iron and hemoglobin concentration, , by correlating the magnetophoretic velocity of cells (red blood cells and white blood cells) to these parameters [3]. Single-cell analysis will enable the determination of the distribution of several parameters within the cells, , which can provide more information than the regular averages obtained in the clinic. Furthermore, the CTV device's capability to detect paramagnetic levels of magnetic moments in cells allows for the analysis of iron-containing proteins, such as ferritin, whose abnormal expression is closely associated with cancer [4]. We propose the application of the CTV device to quantify the magnetic susceptibility of cancer cells, including their metastatic potential, hypothesizing that they may exhibit higher paramagnetic susceptibility compared to normal cells. Our CTV device presents a rapid, label-free, and non-invasive approach for characterizing the magnetic properties of particles and single cells, with demonstrated applications in hematology, anemia diagnosis, and potential applications in cancer research. This innovative technology holds promise for advancing our understanding of disease pathology and facilitating the development of improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
References
[1] Monique Pinto, Jhenifer, Leilismara Sousa Nogueira, and Danyelle Romana Alves Rios. "Hematological parameters: is there a difference between those released by the hematological analyzer and to the customer?." Einstein (16794508) 21 (2023).
[2] Kim, James, et al. "Quantification of the mean and distribution of hemoglobin content in normal human blood using cell tracking velocimetry." Analytical chemistry 92.2 (2019): 1956-1962.
[3] Gómez-Pastora, Jenifer, et al. "Potential of cell tracking velocimetry as an economical and portable hematology analyzer." Scientific reports 12.1 (2022): 1692.
[4] Xue, Wei. Measurements of cellular intrinsic magnetism with cell tracking velocimetry and separation with magnetic deposition microscopy. Diss. The Ohio State University, 2016.
