Generation of lipid vesicles using microfluidic T-junctions with pneumatic valves

We describe a method for generating giant (micro sized) lipid vesicles using pneumatic valves and microfluidic T-junction. Water, oil containing lipids, and water were sequentially infused into the microfluidic channel to form bilayer lipid membranes (BLMs) on chambers (Fig. 1). Valves on the back of the chambers were driven pneumatically and pushed the water out of the chamber; consequently the BLMs were blown into giant lipid vesicles that encapsulate materials containing in the first water phase. Since this method is simple enough, it will be useful for the rapid and efficient encapsulation within the lipid vesicles.