Size- and deformability-based isolation of circulating tumor cells with microfluidic chips and their applications in clinical studies

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are shed from the primary lesion, entering the blood circulation, and potentially establishing metastasis at distant sites. CTCs play a vital role in cancer metastasis and treatment efficacy evaluation. Separation of CTCs and subsequent characterization has significances in monitoring and diagnosing of cancer. However, isolation of CTCs is technically challenging due to the rareness in patient blood. In the present review, we reviewed recent progress in the design and clinical advance of size and deformability-based CTCs separation chips. We focused on the principle and clinical indicators, such as capture efficiency, throughput, and viability, of devices. Finally, insights in future research and applications are discussed.