A gravity-driven microfluidic metering system for automation of multiplexed bioassays

Area of Science:

• Microfluidics
• Biotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Precise fluid manipulation is crucial for microfluidic applications like multiplexed assays and quantitative analysis.
• Existing fluid metering methods are often complex, costly, and lack precision, hindering portable and multiplexed applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, portable, gravity-driven metering system for automated, precise fluid control in microfluidics.
• To enable multiplexed fluid metering, multistep fluid control, and multi-chamber signal readout for enhanced analytical capabilities.

Main Methods:

• Designed and optimized a microfluidic metering chip using gravitational force for sample dispensing.
• Employed numerical simulations to refine chip design for rapid and accurate liquid metering.
• Integrated thermal control valves for automated fluid transfer and a smartphone-assisted readout pod.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated versatile and precise liquid metering using gravity-driven dispensing.
• Achieved automated, programmable fluid transfer without external equipment.
• Validated the system's efficacy through multiplexed analysis of urinary biomarkers with high sensitivity and specificity.

Conclusions:

• The developed gravity-driven metering system offers a portable, cost-effective solution for automated microfluidic fluid handling.
• The platform shows significant potential for multiplexed diagnostics, drug screening, and material synthesis.
• Addresses critical needs in precise fluid manipulation for advanced microfluidic operations.