Automatic microdispenser-integrated multiplex enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay device with autonomously driven...

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Microfluidics
• Assay Development

Background:

• Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is a widely used immunoassay technique.
• Multiplex ELISA allows simultaneous detection of multiple analytes, increasing efficiency.
• Current ELISA systems can be complex, costly, and require specialized equipment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish the control and design theory for an autonomously driven dispenser operating at a steady rotation speed.
• To propose and evaluate a dispenser-integrated multiplex ELISA device.
• To demonstrate the potential for a compact, portable, and low-cost ELISA system for point-of-care testing.

Main Methods:

• Developed theoretical models to estimate flow rate and pressure for passive valves in the dispenser.
• Integrated the dispenser with a multiplex ELISA chip capable of processing multiple samples.
• Evaluated immunoassay performance using mouse IgG detection with varying standards.

Main Results:

• The dispenser-integrated multiplex ELISA device enables flow control through steady chip rotation.
• The device can assay 6 samples/chip or 18 samples/compact disk.
• Mouse IgG detection showed no nonspecific reactions within 30 minutes, with a limit of detection (LOD) comparable to manual assays.
• Fabrication involves simple microchannel pattern transfer, avoiding complex assembly.

Conclusions:

• The developed dispenser-integrated multiplex ELISA system simplifies liquid handling via steady rotation.
• The device offers potential for reduced fabrication costs and simpler control equipment.
• This technology is expected to facilitate the realization of compact, portable, and low-cost ELISA systems for point-of-care applications.