Abstract

Microsystems For the Study of Inflammation and Infections

Daniel Irimia, Associate Professor/Associate Director, Massachusetts General Hospital & Harvard Medical School

Microfabrication techniques, which have revolutionized the electronics industry and made possible the gene-chips for whole-genome studies, are now poised to transform the study of the immune responses during inflammation and infections.  New microsystems and assays for ex vivo studies of human and animal leukocytes are emerging, for applications that range from basic research questions regarding leukocyte physiology, to tools to point-of-care devices that rely on leukocytes for diagnostic and monitoring of diseases.  We will review some of the most recent advances in microsystems for the study or inflammation and infections and will discuss the role of new technologies in advancing our understanding of the role of leukocytes in health and disease.