Special Issue: Microfluidic Lab-on-a-Chip Platforms for High-Performance Diagnostics
1Guest Editor, Biomedical Diagnostics Institute, National Centre of Sensor Research, School of Physical Sciences, Dublin City University, Glasnevin, Dublin 9, Ireland. jens.ducree@dcu.ie.
Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)
|February 10, 2016
Summary
Microfluidics has rapidly evolved from MEMS into a specialized, interdisciplinary field. This research highlights the significant growth and integration of microfluidics across science and engineering disciplines.
Area of Science:
- Microfluidics
- Interdisciplinary Research
- Science and Engineering
Background:
- Microfluidics emerged in the 1980s-1990s, initially linked to micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS).
- A specialized research field developed, moving beyond its initial fabrication origins.
- Over the last decade, a robust, interdisciplinary community has formed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the progress and evolution of the microfluidics field.
- To highlight the interdisciplinary nature and integration of microfluidics.
- To underscore the community's growth and diverse academic roots.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of microfluidics research.
- Analysis of the field's interdisciplinary connections.
- Tracking the development from MEMS to specialized research.
Main Results:
- Microfluidics has transitioned from a byproduct of MEMS to a distinct research area.
- A highly interdisciplinary community now exists, integrating chemistry, physics, biotech, medicine, and engineering.
- Significant progress has been achieved since the field's inception.
Conclusions:
- Microfluidics is a dynamic and rapidly advancing field.
- Its interdisciplinary nature is key to its success and broad applicability.
- The field continues to expand, driven by diverse scientific and engineering contributions.
