A biocompatible open-surface droplet manipulation platform for detection of multi-nucleotide polymorphism

Area of Science:

• Microfluidics
• Surface Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Open-surface microfluidic platforms offer advantages for sample handling.
• Precise droplet manipulation is crucial for microfluidic applications.
• Superhydrophobic surfaces are key for non-contact liquid manipulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel and simple method for droplet manipulation on an open-surface microfluidic platform.
• To enable precise 2D manipulation and mixing of droplets using pneumatic suction.
• To demonstrate the platform's utility for bio-sample analysis and genetic screening.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a superhydrophobic polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane using laser micromachining.
• Utilizing pneumatic suction to deflect the PDMS membrane for droplet transport and mixing.
• Testing the platform with protein and DNA samples, including visual screening for multi-nucleotide polymorphism.

Main Results:

• Achieved a superhydrophobic surface with a contact angle of 150° and hysteresis of 4° without chemical modification.
• Demonstrated simultaneous and precise 2D droplet manipulation and mixing.
• Successfully performed protein handling without adsorption and visual screening for multi-nucleotide polymorphism in 5 minutes using 10 μL sample volume.

Conclusions:

• The proposed platform offers a simple, efficient, and versatile method for droplet manipulation in microfluidics.
• The technology is suitable for various biological and chemical applications, including rapid genetic analysis.
• The system's low sample volume requirement and visual output enhance its practical applicability.