On-chip nano-manipulation of single magnetic particles via domain walls conduits for cell or molecule handling

We present a method for the manipulation (capture, transport, accumulation, and release) of nanometric magnetic beads in wet environments with active control of position (at the nm scale) and time, utilizing patterned magnetic structures as domain wall conduits. We show that with a patterned square conduit of permalloy it is possible to trap and transport a single magnetic nanobead between the two corners of the nanostructure. This concept, implemented in more complex conduits, can allow to sort and manipulate different targets (cells or molecules linked to a magnetic particle) in parallel on the chip surface. © 2009 CBMS.