Speaker
Tayloria Adams, Ph.D.
Date
Location
University of Houston
Abstract
My research group uses electrokinetic techniques, such as dielectrophoresis (DEP) and electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), combined with microfluidic platforms to examine the heterogeneity of human mesenchymal stem cells and prostate cancer cell populations. DEP and EIS use non-uniform electric fields to polarize cells and offer a label-free approach to assessing biological samples. These techniques uncover distinct electrical signatures that provide valuable insights into cellular behavior and phenotype changes, allowing us to identify biomarkers such as membrane capacitance and cytoplasm conductivity. We also employ light-induced DEP, an innovative variation of DEP that leverages virtual electrodes to create non-uniform electric fields, offering a versatile approach for characterizing and patterning cells and manipulating biomaterials. Our work ranges from characterizing and sorting human mesenchymal stem cells for regenerative medicine to examining the phenotypic shifts and effects of different culture conditions on prostate cancer cells, particularly in the context of the epithelial to mesenchymal transition. Additionally, we explore the behaviors of biomaterials in non-uniform electric fields. In this talk, I will discuss how our multi-faceted approach enhances our understanding of cellular heterogeneity and biomaterial interactions, which could support the development of new therapeutic strategies.