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Updated: Oct 10, 2025

Multicolor Fluorescence Detection for Droplet Microfluidics Using Optical Fibers

Multicolor Fluorescence Detection for Droplet Microfluidics Using Optical Fibers

Published on: May 5, 2016

LIFGO: A modular laser-induced fluorescence detection system based on plug-in blocks.

Meng-Ting Zhang¹, Ya-Mei Peng¹, Jian-Zhang Pan²

¹Institute of Microanalytical Systems, Department of Chemistry, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China.

|December 10, 2021

Summary

A low-cost, modular laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection system, LIFGO, was built using LEGO and 3D printed parts. This easy-to-assemble system demonstrates high sensitivity and potential for biochemical analysis and educational purposes.

Keywords:

3D printing LEGO blocks Laser induced fluorescence detection system Modular construction

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Area of Science:

Analytical Chemistry
Instrumentation
Biochemical Analysis

Background:

Developing sensitive and accessible analytical instrumentation is crucial for both research and education.
Traditional laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) systems can be expensive and complex to build.
There is a need for low-cost, modular, and user-friendly analytical tools.

Purpose of the Study:

To develop a novel, modular laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection system using readily available components.
To demonstrate the system's sensitivity, ease of construction, and applicability in biochemical analysis.
To introduce an affordable and accessible instrument for experimental teaching in instrumental analysis.

Main Methods:

A modular LIF detection system, LIFGO, was designed and constructed using commercial LEGO blocks and 3D printed components.
Optical components including laser, filters, lenses, and detectors were integrated into the modular blocks.
The system's performance was optimized and tested using sodium fluorescein solutions in capillaries, and applied to DNA fragment analysis via capillary electrophoresis.

Main Results:

The LIFGO system was successfully built in under 3 hours by inexperienced users.
Achieved low detection limits for sodium fluorescein: 7 nM in 100 μm i.d. capillaries and 0.9 nM in 250 μm i.d. capillaries.
Successfully separated 7 DNA fragments from DL500 DNA markers within 600 seconds using an integrated capillary electrophoresis setup.

Conclusions:

The LIFGO system offers a cost-effective (<$100) and easily constructible solution for LIF detection.
Its modular design lowers the barrier for instrument construction, promoting LIF technique adoption in routine labs.
The system serves as an effective tool for reforming experimental teaching in instrumental analysis for undergraduates.