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Updated: Jan 28, 2026

A Novel Method for Involving Women of Color at High Risk for Preterm Birth in Research Priority Setting
Published on: January 12, 2018
Device Fabrication and Fluorescent Labeling of Preterm Birth Biomarkers for Microchip Electrophoresis
Anna V Nielsen1, Adam T Woolley2
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
Abstract:
An unmet need exists for a clinical diagnostic to determine preterm birth (PTB) risk. Such an assessment is possible with high sensitivity and specificity using a panel of nine biomarkers. An integrated microfluidic analysis system for these biomarkers is being developed which includes microchip electrophoresis (μCE) separation. A t-shaped microchip device can be used to test the μCE portion of this integrated system to find appropriate separation conditions. These t-shaped microchips can be fabricated using photolithographically patterned Si templates and hot embossing. PTB biomarkers can be fluorescently labeled using an amine-reactive dye prior to μCE. The μCE conditions established using this t-shaped device should be useful in developing a complete integrated microfluidic system for PTB risk assessment.
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