Numerical design of a t-shaped microfluidic device for the detection of diseased cells through deformability-based separation

We propose a square cross section asymmetric T-shaped microfluidic channel for the separation of cells suspended in a Newtonian liquid on the basis of their mechanical properties. The design is performed through 3D direct numerical simulations. We show that, when the suspended inclusions start near the inflow channel centerline and the carrier fluid is equally partitioned between the two outflow branches, cell separation can be achieved based on their deformability, with the stiffer ones going 'straight' and the softer ones being deviated to the 'side' branch. The effects of the geometrical and physical parameters of the system on the phenomenon are investigated. Since cell deformability can be significantly modified by pathology, we give a proof of principle on the possibility of separating diseased cells from healthy ones, thus leading to illness diagnosis. ,,.