Reagents in microfluidics: an 'in' and 'out' challenge
Martina Hitzbleck1, Emmanuel Delamarche
1IBM Research - Zurich, Säumerstr. 4, 8803 Rüschlikon, Switzerland. emd@zurich.ibm.com.
Chemical Society Reviews
|August 9, 2013
Summary
This review explores methods for integrating and releasing reagents in microfluidic devices, enhancing reaction efficiency. It covers diverse strategies for liquid and dry reagents, aiding microfluidic system development.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Chemical Engineering
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Microfluidic devices offer efficient downscaling of chemical and biochemical reactions.
- Their complexity presents challenges in reagent integration and release compared to traditional labware.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review state-of-the-art methods for integrating reagents into microfluidic devices.
- To survey strategies for releasing various classes of reagents within microfluidic systems.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of reagent integration and release techniques.
- Categorization of methods based on reagent form (dry/liquid) and release mechanism (active/passive/hybrid).
Main Results:
- A wide array of methods exist for reagent integration and release in microfluidics.
- Techniques include direct integration, carrier-linked reagents, and diverse release strategies.
- The review touches upon applications in drug delivery.
Conclusions:
- Effective reagent integration and release are crucial for microfluidic applications.
- This review provides a valuable resource of methods for microfluidic system developers and users.
