Patent ID: 7425253

Claim:
A method for adherent cell sorting, comprising: i. loading cells in a sorting cytometer, comprising: a. a power source; b. an array of traps comprising: vessels, with dimensions such that each vessel holds a single cell; and dielectrically separated crossing electrodes coupled to said power source, surrounding said vessels wherein said electrodes are arranged in a row/column addressing scheme on said array; c. an input port coupled to said array; and d. an output port coupled to said array, such that individual cells passively enter said vessel; applying a voltage, such that said individual cells are subjected to dielectrophoresis, and are physically trapped within each vessel, under conditions allowing said trapped cells to adhere to said vessels; ii. ceasing application of said voltage; iii. assaying adherent cells upon cessation of the application of said voltage, such that a population of said adherent cells is identified whose isolation is desired; iv. reapplying said voltage to vessels comprising cells whose isolation is not desired, trapping these cells; and v. dislodging said cells whose isolation is desired, and collecting said cells from said output port.