Abstract: A micro-fluidic device comprises a body. The body defines pneumatic ports, chambers for receiving liquids, and a connecting conduit. Each port is sealed with a seal and is shaped to couple to a pneumatic conduit through the seal. At least some of the chambers each have a top opening and a bottom opening. The top openings are in fluid communication with corresponding ports. The bottom openings are in fluid communication with one another through the connecting conduit, which is above the bottom openings. Selective application of pneumatic pressures to the chambers through the pneumatic conduits can transfer a liquid from one chamber to another through the connecting conduit, for example, for processing bio-samples within the device.

Abstract: A micro-fluidic device comprises a body. The body defines pneumatic ports, chambers for receiving liquids, and a connecting conduit. Each port is sealed with a seal and is shaped to couple to a pneumatic conduit through the seal. At least some of the chambers each have a top opening and a bottom opening. The top openings are in fluid communication with corresponding ports. The bottom openings are in fluid communication with one another through the connecting conduit, which is above the bottom openings. Selective application of pneumatic pressures to the chambers through the pneumatic conduits can transfer a liquid from one chamber to another through the connecting conduit, for example, for processing bio-samples within the device.

Abstract: Methods and apparatuses involving biocompatible structures for tissue engineering and organ replacement and, more specifically, biocompatible structures formed by three-dimensional fabrication, are described. In some embodiments, the biocompatible structures are scaffolds for cells that can be used as tissue engineering templates and/or as artificial organs. The structures may be three-dimensional and can mimic the shapes and dimensions of tissues and/or organs, including the microarchitecture and porosities of the tissues and organs. Pores in the structure may allow delivery of molecules across the structure, and may facilitate cell migration and/or generation of connective tissue between the structure and its host environment. Structures of the invention can be implanted into a mammal and/or may be used ex vivo as bioartificial assist devices.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods and apparatus for manipulating chemical and/or biological species (e.g., cells) and, more specifically, to methods and apparatus for manipulating chemical and/or biological species using magnetic fields. In one embodiment, a method of manipulating cells involves the patterning of cells using a magnetic field modulator, which can modulate the magnetic field created by a magnetic field source. The cells may be magnetically susceptible in some cases; for instance, they may be tagged with magnetic particles. When a fluid containing cells is brought in contact with a surface, and the magnetic field modulator is positioned proximate the surface, the cells may form a pattern proximate the surface by aligning with portions of the modulated magnetic field. The position of the pattern of cells may be at least partially determined by the position of the magnetic field modulator in relation to the surface.