Cell isolation and screening device and method of using same

Abstract

The present invention provides methods and devices for screening a single cell or a small group of cells for a desired biological activity. In particular, the present invention provides for delivering cell(s) to a plurality of cell isolation regions of a cell isolation device, transferring the cell(s) to a plurality of wells of a cell expansion device and detecting the potential desired biological activity of the cell(s). Each of the cell isolation regions comprise a bioaffinity region capable of binding a single cell or a small group of cell(s). This binding of cell(s) may be accomplished through the use of bioaffinity ligands immobilized in the bioaffinity regions of the cell isolation regions. Preferably, the wells of the cell expansion device encompass a cavity that provides sufficient volume for cell proliferation.