MAGNETIC FORCE MICROMANIPULATION SYSTEMS FOR THE BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

Abstract

Manipulation systems using magnetic field gradients have the ability to apply a large range of forces noninvasively to a specific target. Depending on the requirements of a given experiment, the systems may be as simple as a single electromagnet for unidirectional manipulation or as complex as a high-frequency three-dimensional manipulator with force feedback. Here, we discuss the motivation for developing such systems, theory and design considerations, and give examples of the broad range of manipulators that has been put to use. In addition, we discuss a variety of applications demonstrating the range of experiments for which such a system is applicable.