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Abstract

Described herein are methods and devices directed to preparing complex tissue samples for direct single cell analysis (e.g., scRNAseq) in a comprehensive, enzyme-free manner. The device and method use shear forces, mechanical features, electrical treatment, and acoustics, in addition to programmed microfluidic flow to dissociate a tissue sample into a purified suspension of single cells. In an example, a tissue sample is loaded into a well with retaining mesh on either side. A combination of microfluidic flow, shear, and electrical treatment elutes clumps (e.g., aggregates or agglomerates) of cells from this well, while a sample-specific, back and forth flow is repeated to begin an impurity removal process. At an outlet of the device, purified cells suitable for single cell analysis are eluted. As described herein, the device can be operated continuously.

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First Claim