Optical redistribution of microparticles and cells between microwells.

The shaping of laser beams has developed into a powerful tool for optical micromanipulation. In this context, Airy and parabolic laser beams which follow curved trajectories have drawn considerable attention. These beams may allow clearing of microparticles through particle transport along curved paths, a concept termed "optically mediated particle clearing (OMPC)." In this communication we apply this concept to microparticles and cells within specially designed microwells. Our results open novel perspectives for the redistribution of cells between different media within a microfluidic environment.