New Engines for Polybiosensing and Analysis of Live Cells: From Human to Moon

Abstract:
Advances in integrated omics, bioelectronics, imaging, and flow cytometry have generated valuable information about intrinsic and extrinsic properties of living materials, including live cells. Genotype, phenotype, and function are key biological properties defining these cells. However, live cells face an engineering challenge characterized by the heterogeneous changes across spatiotemporal dimensions. The first part of this presentation highlights the current practice in live cell analysis with an emphasis on cellular therapeutics applications, where patient’s own cells serve as medicine.

The second part introduces the concept of polybiosensing and a new engine comprising a polymodal instrument, consumables, software, and AI for non-invasive and comprehensive cellular analysis over time. This integrated system measures multiple phenotypic and functional properties of cells and their environments through continuous and simultaneous imaging, electrical impedance sensing, and biochemical sensing of glucose, pH, and oxygen in a single living culture. Data analytics connect and interpret spatiotemporal datasets, while AI generates previously unattainable deep insights. This biosensing method enables orthogonal testing and the streamlining of rich matrix information (currently up to 16 channels), which complements the genetic properties of cells. Furthermore, it offers access to correlations and outcome predictions that would otherwise be missed by static and label-specific sensing on dead cells or merging of single-mode live cell sensing in separate equipment or at different times. The diverse applications of this core technology range from analyzing precious samples for human health to environmental and space explorations.

Bio:
Mandana Veiseh serves as an affiliate senior scientist at the Lawrence Berkeley National lab (LBNL) and is the founder, president and chief science and technology officer at Polybiomics, where she leads user-centered innovation, R&D, and strategic planning. Previously, she held roles as a senior scientist in the Electronic Materials & Devices group and as an area manager for BioEngineered Devices & Systems at Xerox-PARC, where she invented the polysensing bioelectronic test plate and initiated new research and programmatic directions.

Mandana’s research leverages biological, clinical, and AI inputs for the design and characterization of living materials and next-generation tools in biotech and life sciences. She earned a dual Ph.D. in Materials Science & Engineering and Nanotechnology from the University of Washington (UW) under the supervision of Dr. Miqin Zhang. Her work on molecular engineering of Bio-MEMS for design of cell-based biosensors received DOE-ALS dissertation fellowship for collaborative research with Drs. Michael C. Martin, and Carolyn Bertozzi at LBNL and UC Berkeley. On the clinical front, she did postdoctoral work in the Olson laboratory at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center to develop the Tumor Paint and co-founded Presage Biosciences for cancer drug screening in vivo. Driven by the challenges posed by biological complexity and heterogeneity, she developed functional probes and 3D MEMS culture systems to investigate tumor nano-environment at the Bissell laboratory of the LBNL. Subsequently, as an F32 NRSA fellow of the NCI, she led research on discovery and deconvolution of a new type of heterogeneity within aggressive breast cancer cells. At LBNL, she also served as the President of the Early Career Scientist Society and as a technology track leader for the Biosciences 10-years strategic plan. These efforts have resulted in the formation of 4 startups, over 20 commercialized inventions, training of diverse workforces, and 32 publications.  Dr. Veiseh’s notable recognitions include invitations to participate in The Grainger Foundation Frontiers of Engineering symposia by the National Academy of Engineering, Albert Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award, the PARC Impact award, the Jordyn Dukelow Fellowship in Pediatric Neuro-oncology Research, and the Outstanding Graduate Award from the Society of Women Engineers.