Microfluidic module for blood cell separation for gene expression radiobiological assays

Area of Science:

• Biomolecular analysis
• Microfluidics
• Radiation biodosimetry

Background:

• Molecular techniques enhance biomarker discovery for radiation exposure.
• Gene expression assays are effective for biodosimetry, with various platforms available.
• Automating sample preparation on microfluidic platforms is key for point-of-care radiological event countermeasures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a microfluidic module for isolating white blood cells from peripheral blood.
• To enable automation of gene expression assays on a microfluidic cartridge.
• To adapt gene expression platforms for diverse assay chemistries and biomarkers.

Main Methods:

• Development of a microfluidic module for white blood cell isolation.
• Integration of sample preparation steps into a microfluidic cartridge.
• Adaptation of gene expression platforms for specific assay requirements.

Main Results:

• A functional module for white blood cell isolation from peripheral blood was developed.
• The module serves as a prerequisite for automating gene expression assays.
• The system is adaptable to different assay chemistries and biomarker types.

Conclusions:

• The developed microfluidic module facilitates automated sample preparation for gene expression biodosimetry.
• This technology supports the development of point-of-care diagnostic tools for radiological incidents.
• Further adaptation of gene expression platforms can enhance biodosimetry capabilities.