Method for controlling non-labeled cell migration using the magneto-Archimedes effect

We report a cell patterning method using the magneto-Archimedes effect. With this method, we apply magnetic force to cells in an arbitrary direction at an arbitrary time, allowing patterning in two dimensions. To evaluate this method, we performed three experiments. First, we verified that cell-sized fluorescent particles are moved by the magneto-Archimedes effect. Second, we confirmed that nerve cells survive in paramagnetic solvent. Third, we then developed a setup to observe samples for 24 h while applying a magnetic force. Using this setup, we applied a magnetic force to nerve cells in the horizontal direction to move them. The results reveal that the magnetic force is sufficient to move suspended cell-sized particles.