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A review on continuous-flow microfluidic PCR in droplets: Advances, challenges and future
Yonghao Zhang1, Hui-Rong Jiang2
1James Weir Fluids Laboratory, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK.
Analytica Chimica Acta
|March 12, 2016
Summary
Microfluidic microdroplet technology enhances polymerase chain reaction (PCR) by preventing contamination and enabling single-molecule analysis. This review covers advancements, challenges, and future potential for automated scientific discovery using droplet-based PCR.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Microfluidic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) devices have advanced significantly over the past 20 years.
- Microdroplet technology offers unique advantages for PCR, including preventing crossover contamination and PCR inhibition.
- It is well-suited for sensitive analyses like single-cell and single-molecule detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- This review focuses on recent developments in droplet-based continuous-flow microfluidic PCR.
- It identifies major research challenges in the field.
- The review also discusses enabling technologies for integrated and automated systems.
Main Methods:
- Review of recent literature on droplet-based continuous-flow microfluidic PCR.
- Analysis of unique features of microdroplet technology for PCR applications.
- Discussion of on-chip flow control and rational design simulation tools.
Main Results:
- Droplet-based microfluidic PCR prevents contamination and inhibition, enabling sensitive analyses.
- System integration and automation are key potentials for these technologies.
- New methods for flow control and design simulation are crucial for advanced systems.
Conclusions:
- Droplet-based microfluidic PCR represents a significant advancement with potential for automation.
- Overcoming research challenges is essential for realizing fully integrated systems.
- Future autonomous scientific discoveries are anticipated through microfluidic microdroplet technologies.
