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Updated: Jun 12, 2026
10:32
On-chip Isotachophoresis for Separation of Ions and Purification of Nucleic Acids
Published on: March 2, 2012
Miniaturized system for isotachophoresis assays
G V Kaigala1, M Bercovici, M Behnam
1Department of Mechanical Engineering, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA.
Lab on a Chip
|June 24, 2010
Summary
We developed a portable, inexpensive device for isotachophoresis (ITP) with laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection. This compact instrument enables sensitive, quantitative analysis of analytes, including environmental contaminants, without sample prep.
Area of Science:
- Analytical Chemistry
- Microfluidics
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Microchip electrophoresis offers miniaturized analytical capabilities.
- Isotachophoresis (ITP) is a powerful separation technique.
- Laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) provides sensitive detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an inexpensive, portable device integrating microchip isotachophoresis (ITP) with laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection.
- To demonstrate the device's capability for sensitive and quantitative analysis of fluorescent species.
- To validate simulation tools for ITP assay design and performance prediction.
Main Methods:
- Development of a hand-held, USB-powered device integrating high voltage generation on a microchip.
- Implementation of LIF detection for fluorescent analytes.
- Utilizing simulation tools for ITP assay design and validation.
- Performing label-free ITP assays for environmental sample analysis.
Main Results:
- Achieved a limit of detection of 100 pM for a fluorescent species.
- Demonstrated linear detector response with initial analyte concentration, enabling quantitative analysis.
- Validated simulation tools with experimental results for multiplexed indirect detection.
- Successfully detected explosives and an endocrine disruptor in river water using a label-free assay without sample processing.
Conclusions:
- The developed hand-held ITP-LIF device is a cost-effective and portable solution for sensitive and quantitative chemical analysis.
- The device and integrated simulation tools facilitate rapid assay development and application in environmental monitoring.
- Label-free ITP assays on the portable device show promise for detecting contaminants in real-world samples with minimal sample preparation.
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