Osaka, Japan – Researchers have discovered a novel criterion for sorting particles in microfluidic channels, paving the way for advancements in disease diagnostics and liquid biopsies. Controlling particle movement within microchannels is crucial for cell sorting and diagnostics, expected to realize early cancer detection and treatment. While prior research focused on rigid particles, which typically focus near channel walls, the behavior of deformable particles remained largely unexplored. Rigid particles migrate towards specific points near channel walls, while soft particles focus at the channel center or along the diagonals, depending on the flow conditions. This research pioneers next-generation microfluidic technology by incorporating particle deformability as a critical design parameter, shifting microfluidic channel design from empirical towards a scientifically grounded approach.