Abstract: Metabolic engineering has developed microbial cell factories as sustainable alternatives to chemical synthesis from petroleum feedstocks or harvesting of animals and plants, but current methods can be a costly and labor-intensive commitment. Methods are described herein for microfluidic methods of screening thousands of variant cells in order to reduce time and uncertainty to provide improved strains.

Abstract: Methods for identifying a cell population secreting a biomolecule with desirable attributes are disclosed. The desirable attributes can include, for example, quantity and quality (e.g., minimal aggregation and/or desired configuration). Cell populations identified by the disclosed methods are more likely to successfully scale during production. The methods can include assessing multiple domains/binding sites of a complex biomolecule and/or the formation of aggregates by the biomolecules. Methods of assessing a secretion level for biomolecules having a wide range of molecular weights and method for enhancing loading of cells into chambers of a microfluidic device.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to methods for assaying and controlling micro-objects in a microfluidic device. In situ-generated hydrogel barriers are provided for dividing a microfluidic chamber into areas where assaying a cell may be performed without interference from the presence of the cell itself.

Abstract: Methods for laser-assisted repositioning of a micro-object and for culturing an attachment-dependent biological cell within a microfluidic device are described herein. Laser illumination is used to controllably create a bubble which repositions the micro-object. Further, methods of culturing an attachment-dependent biological cell are described, where the methods may include laser-assisted repositioning.