A Microfluidic Platform for Precision Small-volume Sample Processing and Its Use to Size Separate Biological...

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Microfluidics
• Particle Separation

Background:

• Microfluidic devices offer advantages in sample manipulation but require robust integration with macroscale systems.
• Achieving repeatable and sensitive particle separation necessitates addressing challenges in fluid handling and device connectivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a fully automated and integrated microfluidic platform for processing larger sample volumes (0.15-1.5 ml).
• To enable precise and repeatable particle separation using interchangeable microfluidic devices, including acoustofluidics.
• To optimize sample collection through real-time feedback for conservation and concentration.

Main Methods:

• Development of a modular microfluidic platform with robust world-to-chip connections.
• Implementation of fully-automated fluid handling for closed-loop sample collection, system priming, and cleaning.
• Integration and characterization of an acoustofluidic device for size-based separation of biological samples.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated precise processing of 0.15-1.5 ml samples with repeatable and sensitive particle separation.
• Successful size-separation of biological samples using the integrated acoustofluidic device.
• Optimized sample collection via real-time feedback, conserving and concentrating processed samples.

Conclusions:

• The automated microfluidic platform provides a flexible, reliable, and precise solution for particle separation from larger sample volumes.
• The system facilitates interchangeable device use and processing of unknown samples without extensive optimization.
• This approach enhances the utility of microfluidics for sensitive biological sample analysis and concentration.