Rapid, multiplexed detection of biomolecules using electrically distinct hydrogel beads

Area of Science:

• Biomolecule detection
• Microfluidics
• Biosensors

Background:

• Current molecular diagnostics require rapid, low-cost, and multiplexed detection methods.
• Existing microfluidic biochips can detect single protein targets but lack multiplexing and magnetic properties for whole blood analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To engineer precisely new microparticles for electrical multiplexing and label-free detection of biomolecules.
• To adapt a microfluidic biochip platform for low-cost, multiplexed electrical detection using novel magnetic hydrogel beads (MHBs).

Main Methods:

• Synthesized highly-monodisperse populations of magnetic hydrogel beads (MHBs) using droplet microfluidics.
• Engineered MHBs with varying hydrogel content to create unique electrical impedance signatures for identification.
• Utilized electrical Coulter counting on-chip for sensitive and selective capture and detection of multiplexed targets.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated successful multiplexing of electrical Coulter counting using distinct MHB populations.
• Achieved versatile and multiplexed detection of both protein and DNA targets.
• MHBs enabled label-free detection and adaptation for whole blood analysis.

Conclusions:

• Developed novel MHBs enabling multiplexed electrical detection of biomolecules.
• This advancement is critical for multiplexing Coulter counting and developing low-cost point-of-care diagnostic sensors.
• The platform offers a significant step towards sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective diagnostics.