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SUPERCELLS: a novel microfluidic reactor architecture for ultra-fast sequential delivery of chemical reagents

  • 0Imec, Life Sciences Technologies, Kapeldreef 75, 3001 Leuven, Belgium. tim.stakenborg@imec.be.
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August 16, 2024

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August 16, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study introduces a novel 3D hierarchical fluidic concept for applications like next-generation sequencing. This design minimizes reagent waste and speeds up processes by enabling rapid reagent switching without external valves.

Area Of Science

  • Biotechnology
  • Microfluidics
  • Chemical Engineering

Background

  • Current fluidic systems for applications like nucleic acid synthesis and next-generation sequencing suffer from large dead volumes.
  • This necessitates extensive rinsing steps, leading to significant reagent waste and increased operational costs.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To propose a novel fluidic concept that minimizes reagent consumption and reduces cycle times.
  • To enable faster and more cost-efficient reagent delivery in microfluidic applications.

Main Methods

  • Developed a 3D fluidic network with a hierarchical branching structure for reagent supply.
  • Reagents are delivered directly to reaction cavities (supercells) via dedicated supply lines.
  • Reagent selection is controlled by adjusting pressure in supply lines, eliminating the need for integrated valves.

Main Results

  • Demonstrated rapid reagent switching with an average time of 0.23 ± 0.09 seconds at a flow rate of 10 nL/s.
  • Validated the scalability of the fluidic concept using a 10x10 matrix of supercells.
  • Achieved minimal reagent usage due to short distances from supply lines to reaction cavities.

Conclusions

  • The proposed 3D hierarchical fluidic concept enables highly parallel, cost-efficient, and faster workflows.
  • This innovative design is suitable for applications requiring numerous reagent cycles, such as advanced sequencing and synthesis.
  • The system significantly reduces reagent consumption and operational expenses.