Abstract: Microfluidic structures and methods for manipulating fluids and reactions are provided. Such structures and methods may involve positioning fluid samples, e.g., in the form of droplets, in a carrier fluid (e.g., an oil, which may be immiscible with the fluid sample) in predetermined regions in a microfluidic network. In some embodiments, positioning of the droplets can take place in the order in which they are introduced into the microfluidic network (e.g., sequentially) without significant physical contact between the droplets. Because of the little or no contact between the droplets, there may be little or no coalescence between the droplets. Accordingly, in some such embodiments, surfactants are not required in either the fluid sample or the carrier fluid to prevent coalescence of the droplets. Structures and methods described herein also enable droplets to be removed sequentially from the predetermined regions.

Abstract: A module for processing a biological sample for an analysis test is disclosed. The processing module includes, in at least one embodiment, an interface at which the processing module can be connected to a cartridge with a lab-on-a-chip, in which cartridge the analysis steps are carried out. A biochip kit is also disclosed. In at least one embodiment, the biochip kit includes one or more processing modules which are intended for different sample materials and which can be connected to the same cartridge type.

Abstract: The present invention provides control methods, control systems, and control software for microfluidic devices that operate by moving discrete micro-droplets through a sequence of determined configurations. Such microfluidic devices are preferably constructed in a hierarchical and modular fashion which is reflected in the preferred structure of the provided methods and systems. In particular, the methods are structured into low-level device component control functions, middle-level actuator control functions, and high-level micro-droplet control functions. Advantageously, a microfluidic device may thereby be instructed to perform an intended reaction or analysis by invoking micro-droplet control function that perform intuitive tasks like measuring, mixing, heating, and so forth. The systems are preferably programmable and capable of accommodating microfluidic devices controlled by low voltages and constructed in standardized configurations.

Abstract: The present invention describes microfluidic devices that provide novel fluidic structures to facilitate the separation of fluids into isolated, pico-liter sized compartments for performing multiplexing chemical and biological reactions. Applications of the novel devices including biomolecule synthesis, polynucleotide amplification, and binding assays are also disclosed.

Abstract: Various aspects of the present invention relates to the control and manipulation of fluidic species, for example, in microfluidic systems. In one aspect, the invention relates to systems and methods for making droplets of fluid surrounded by a liquid, using, for example, electric fields, mechanical alterations, the addition of an intervening fluid, etc. The invention also relates to systems and methods for fusing droplets according to another aspect of the invention, for example, through charge and/or dipole interactions. In some cases, the fusion of the droplets may initiate or determine a reaction. In still another aspect, the invention relates to systems and methods for sorting droplets, e.g., by causing droplets to move to certain regions within a fluidic system. Examples include using electrical interactions (e.g., charges, dipoles, etc.) or mechanical systems (e.g., fluid displacement) to sort the droplets.

Abstract: A fluidic device for conveying liquid to a well of a microplate. The device includes a support structure configured to be mounted along the microplate. The device also includes a microfluidic tube coupled to the support structure. The tube has an inlet, an outlet, and an open-sided channel that extends longitudinally therebetween. The tube has a cross-section that includes an interior contour with a gap therein. The gap extends at least partially along a length of the tube. The tube is configured to convey liquid to the well of the microplate when the tube is held in a dispensing orientation.

Abstract: The present technology provides for a microfluidic substrate configured to carry out PCR on a number of polynucleotide-containing samples in parallel. The substrate can be a single-layer substrate in a microfluidic cartridge. Also provided are a method of making a microfluidic cartridge comprising such a substrate. Still further disclosed are a microfluidic valve suitable for use in isolating a PCR chamber in a microfluidic substrate, and a method of making such a valve.

Abstract: Systems and methods for analysis of samples, and in certain embodiments, microfluidic sample analyzers configured to receive a cassette containing a sample therein to perform an analysis of the sample are described. The microfluidic sample analyzers may be used to control fluid flow, mixing, and sample analysis in a variety of microfluidic systems such as microfluidic point-of-care diagnostic platforms. Advantageously, the microfluidic sample analyzers may be, in some embodiments, inexpensive, reduced in size compared to conventional bench top systems, and simple to use. Cassettes that can operate with the sample analyzers are also described.

Abstract: An automatic analyzer which assures uniformity in mixing effects regardless of sample quantity and test item and thus produces analysis results with high repeatability. The automatic analyzer includes a device for adding a conditioning liquid into a reaction chamber so that the quantity of liquid in the reaction chamber becomes a predetermined quantity prior to being mixed. The conditioning liquid may be a diluent or physiological saline as used for dilution of a sample or any other special liquid that adjusts the properties such as viscosity, surface tension, etc. of liquid to be mixed.

Abstract: A receptacle having a plurality of interconnected chambers arranged to permit multiple process steps or processes to be performed independently or simultaneously. The receptacles are manufactured to separate liquid from dried reagents and to maintain the stability of the dried reagents. An immiscible liquid, such as an oil, is included to control loading of process materials, facilitate mixing and reconstitution of dried reagents, limit evaporation, control heating of reaction materials, concentrate solid support materials to prevent clogging of fluid connections, provide minimum volumes for fluid transfers, and to prevent process materials from sticking to chamber surfaces. The receptacles can be adapted for use in systems having a processing instrument that includes an actuator system for selectively moving fluid substances between chambers and a detector. The actuator system can be arranged to concentrate an analyte present in a sample.

Abstract: Multiplex binding assay assemblies are disclosed. The assemblies generally include at least one assay bar that includes a top side, a bottom side, and at least one well accessible from the top side of the assay bar. Each well includes a side surface, a bottom surface, an open top end, and at least one secondary container, with each secondary container including a capillary tube that (i) begins at a location within an interior volume of the well and (ii) ends at a location beneath the bottom surface of the assay bar. The assemblies further include a dispenser bar that is adapted to be positioned adjacent to the top side of the assay bar, which includes one or more reservoirs that are configured to provide one or more reagents to the at least one secondary container located in each well of the assay bar.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices and methods including porous polymer monoliths are described. Polymerization techniques may be used to generate porous polymer monoliths having pores defined by a liquid component of a fluid mixture. The fluid mixture may contain iniferters and the resulting porous polymer monolith may include surfaces terminated with iniferter species. Capture molecules may then be grafted to the monolith pores.

Abstract: The present invention is an apparatus and fluid delivery system for automated assays. The apparatus, for example, may be used for western blotting that uses flow lines for multiple reagents. In one embodiment, the present invention comprises a tray base with one or more fixed or disposable trays for testing samples, multiple flow lines, and multiple valves and the system is used for automatic controlled delivery of different fluids from supply vessels to different trays and discharges them to designated reservoirs or sewage system with minimum of operator actions. The system may include air line to assist supply and discharge the fluids and also coupled with measuring vessels with adjustable volume and valves adapted to interface with a valve operating unit with drive means.

Abstract: A test element, analytical system and method for optical analysis of fluid samples is provided. The test element has a substrate and a microfluidic channel structure, which is enclosed by the substrate and a cover layer. The channel structure has a measuring chamber with an inlet opening. The test element has a first level, which faces the cover layer, and a second level, which interconnects with the first level such that the first level is positioned between the cover layer and the second level. A part of the measuring chamber extending through the first level forms a measuring zone connecting with a part of the measuring chamber that extends partially into the second level, forming a mixing zone. Optical analysis of fluid samples is carried out by light guided through the first level parallel to the cover layer, such that the light traverses the measuring zone along an optical axis.

Abstract: A single disposable cartridge for performing a process on a particle, such as particle sorting, encapsulates all fluid contact surfaces in the cartridge for use with microfluidic particle processing technology. The cartridge interfaces with an operating system for effecting particle processing. The encapsulation of the fluid contact surfaces insures, improves or promotes operator isolation and/or product isolation. The cartridge may employ any suitable technique for processing particles.

Abstract: A device for handling liquid samples, comprising a flow path with at least one zone for receiving the sample, and a transport or incubation zone, said zones connected by or comprising an area having projections substantially vertical to its surface, said device provided with a sink with a capacity of receiving said liquid sample, said sink comprising an area having projections substantially vertical to its surface, and said sink being adapted to respond to an external influence regulating its capacity to receive said liquid sample.

Abstract: An electroosmotic (EO) pump is provided that includes a housing having a pump cavity, a porous core medium and electrodes. The porous core medium is positioned within the pump cavity to form an exterior reservoir that extends at least partially about an exterior surface of the porous core medium. The porous core medium has an open inner chamber provided therein. The inner chamber represents an interior reservoir. The electrodes are positioned in the inner chamber and are positioned proximate the exterior surface. The electrodes induce flow of a fluid through the porous core medium between the interior and exterior reservoirs, wherein a gas is generated when the electrodes induce flow of the fluid. The housing has a fluid inlet to convey the fluid to one of the interior reservoir and the exterior reservoir. The housing has a fluid outlet to discharge the fluid from another of the interior reservoir and the exterior reservoir. The housing has a gas removal device to remove the gas from the pump cavity.

Abstract: An apparatus for chemical separations includes a microfluidic substrate having an outlet aperture for outputting an eluent of a sample, a spray unit having an inlet to receive the eluent and an outlet to emit a spray of the eluent, and a force-applying unit. The spray unit has a deformable portion defining the inlet and having an elastic modulus that is lower than an elastic modulus of the microfluidic substrate. The force-applying unit, such as a spring, is disposed to urge the deformable portion in contact with the substrate to form a substantially fluid-tight seal.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for analyzing a biological fluid sample is provided. The method includes the steps of: a) providing an analysis cartridge having a channel and an analysis chamber, wherein the channel is in fluid communication with the analysis chamber and includes at least one hydrophobic interior wall surface; b) admixing one or more anti-adsorption agents with fluid sample disposed within the channel, wherein the anti-adsorption agents are operable to inhibit adsorption of fluid sample onto the interior wall surface of the channel; c) moving the fluid sample into the analysis chamber; and d) analyzing the sample within the analysis chamber.

Abstract: Microfluidic system including a droplet actuator having an interior cavity and a series of electrodes arranged along the interior cavity for forming a droplet-operation path therethrough. The droplet actuator has a module-engaging side including an opening that is in flow communication with the interior cavity. The microfluidic system also includes a reservoir module configured to be coupled to the droplet actuator. The reservoir module includes a plurality of liquid compartments having respective outlets and at least one seal positioned along the outlets to retain liquid within the liquid compartments. The reservoir module is movable along the module-engaging side of the droplet actuator to position the outlets relative to the opening. The microfluidic system also includes a piercer having a tip configured to penetrate the seal thereby permitting the liquid within the corresponding liquid compartment to flow into the opening.

Abstract: Provided herein are devices and methods for generating microfluidic gradients, including an array of unique microfluidic gradients within an array of microchannels. Fluids within conduits are mixed in an intersection region to generate a mixed flow stream in a source reservoir channel that provides a gradient that varies with axial distance from the intersection region. Microchannels having an inlet connected to the source reservoir channel are configured to provide a microfluidic gradient in the microchannel. An outlet end of the microchannel is connected to a sink reservoir channel. By varying the ratio of fluid flow rates from the fluid conduits, the microchannel gradients are tuned. In this manner, a large number of unique gradients or array of microfluidic gradients is provided, wherein the gradient can be any number of physical or chemical parameters, including concentrations and physical fluid properties.

Abstract: A droplet-generating device is provided. The droplet-generating device comprises a first microchannel and a second microchannel. The first microchannel includes a first fluid inlet and a second fluid inlet. The second microchannel crossing over and communicating with the first microchannel at an intersectional region includes a third fluid inlet, a fourth fluid inlet, a fluid outlet, a three-way junction and a side wall. The intersectional region is configured between the third fluid inlet and the three-way junction, and the side wall is disposed between the fourth fluid inlet and the fluid outlet and extended downward. A method of producing a droplet is also provided.

Abstract: Analytical systems and methods are provided for simultaneously dispensing metered volumes of fluids at different rates and mixing the fluids to generate a mixed sample having the fluids in proportion to the different rates at which they were dispensed. In some cases two or more of the fluids are premixed prior to mixing with other fluids. In some cases a use composition and diluent are simultaneously dispensed at different rates and premixed to form a diluted sample. One or more reagents may be mixed with the diluted sample and the sample mixture can be analyzed to determine characteristics of the use composition.

Abstract: This invention provides a method for generating short tandem repeat (STR) profiles on each of a plurality of samples comprising, for each sample: a) isolating DNA from the sample; b) amplifying STR markers in the isolated DNA and c) analyzing the amplification product by electrophoresis.

Abstract: A microfluidic chamber for use in individual cell assays. The microfluidic chamber includes a cell microchamber having an interior region and front and rear valves, each of which are separately controllable so that they can be selectively opened and closed to thereby permit the transference of an individual cell into and out of the interior region. Cell secretion and contact interaction studies can be carried out using the microchambers, with the valves permitting either complete isolation or perfusion media flow through the microchambers. An internal perfusion wall can be included to partition the microchamber for non-contact perfusion studies of secretion interactions between cells.

Abstract: A microfluidic apparatus includes at least one microfluidic device in which flow paths are formed, a device receiving layer including a receiving part into which the at least one microfluidic device is inserted and at least one pattern layer on which patterns connected to the flow paths of the at least one microfluidic device are formed, wherein each of the at least one pattern and device receiving layers is bonded to an adjacent layer to prevent fluid leakage.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for manufacturing a microfluidic chip, wherein said method comprises the steps of: providing a plate combined with a layer of inorganic silica gel of formula: (HsiO3/2)2n where n is an integer, and providing a lid; chemically activating the layer of silica gel and the lid, in order to make the layer of gel and the lid hydrophilic; mechanically combining the layer of gel and the lid to form a chip, such that the layer of gel forms an intermediate layer between the plate and the lid; annealing the chip, such that the layer of silica gel transforms into an intermediate layer made up of a SiO2 matrix for rigidly securing the plate to the lid. The invention also relates to a related chip and plate.

Abstract: A system includes a sensor including a sensor pad and a well wall structure defining a well operatively coupled to the sensor pad. The well is further defined by a lower surface disposed over the sensor pad. The well wall structure defines an upper surface and defines a wall surface extending between the upper surface and the lower surface. The system further includes a conductive layer disposed over the lower surface and the wall surface.

Abstract: A reader for mechanical actuation of fluids within a test cartridge. The instrument interface including multiple independently-controlled plungers aligned to respective fluidic pouches on a test cartridge that is inserted into a testing apparatus embodying the instrument interface. The plungers include tips for applying mechanical force to the respective fluidic pouches.

Abstract: A microfluidic cartridge including on-board dry reagents and microfluidic circuitry for determining a clinical analyte or analytes from a few microliters of liquid sample; with docking interface for use in a host workstation, the workstation including a pneumatic fluid controller and spectrophotometer for monitoring analytical reactions in the cartridge.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for washing at least one cavity (20?) in a microfluidic component, the cavity (20?) containing a first liquid (F1) and at least one second liquid (F2) being supplied to the cavity (20?) for washing. According to the invention an air bubble (L) is supplied to the cavity (20?) before the washing liquid (F2) is introduced. The air bubble (L), which acts as a virtual barrier layer between the first liquid (F1) and the washing liquid (F2) that follows it enables the washing efficiency to be increased considerably. Overall, this method leads to a saving in washing liquid (F2) and washing time. Moreover, a microfluidic component is proposed for carrying out the method.

Abstract: A channel control mechanism for a microchip has a laminated structure formed of members including elastic members, and includes: a sample reservoir for packing a sample therein; a reaction reservoir in which mixture and reaction of the sample are performed; and a channel formed in a middle layer of the laminated structure, for bringing the sample reservoir and the reaction reservoir into communication with each other. The channel control mechanism performs the reaction and analysis in such a manner that the sample is delivered into the reaction reservoir through the channel. A shutter channel (pressurizing channel) is provided in a layer different from a layer in which the channel is formed so that the pressurizing channel partially overlaps the channel. The channel is closed through applying a pressurized medium to the shutter channel (pressurizing channel), and the channel is opened through releasing a pressure of the pressurized medium.

Abstract: A disposable blood analysis cartridge for analyzing a blood sample including an optical light scattering measurement channel is described. In use, processed sample may be introduced into a sheath fluid channel at an angle, ?, of approximately 90 degrees, relative to the direction of flow of the sheath fluid. In addition, delivering the sample from the side into the sheath fluid may facilitate better positioning of the core within the hydrodynamic focusing channel for measurement.

Abstract: A disposable blood analysis cartridge for analyzing a blood sample including an optical absorbance measurement channel is described. The optical absorbance measurement channel includes a plasma separation region and at least one sub channel including a cuvette that is in fluid communication with the plasma separation region and configured to receive a plasma portion of a blood sample that has been passed through the plasma separation region. A negative pressure may be applied to the cartridge to draw the sample through the plasma separation region and into the sub channel including the cuvette.

Abstract: A two-step method for loading a fluid sample into a disposable fluid analysis cartridge is described. First, capillary action may be used to initially draw a sample through a sample introduction port and into a sample collection reservoir provided in the fluid analysis cartridge. Once the fluid sample has been drawn into the sample collection reservoir by capillary action, a negative pressure may be applied to the cartridge to pull the sample from the sample collection reservoir and into a sample loading channel. A valve may be disposed between the sample collection reservoir and the sample loading channel to prevent backflow of sample into the sample collection reservoir and to retain sample in the sample loading channel.

Abstract: Aspects of the present invention provide a freestanding microfluidic pipette with integrated wells for solution storage. Further aspects of the invention provide a holding interface to provide connectivity with external control components. One aspect of the invention provides a system for applying a microfluidic device in microscopy. The system includes: a microfluidic device having an elongated shape and defining one or more wells for solution storage and processing; and an interface adapted and configured to hold the microfluidic device in a freestanding manner and facilitate simultaneous connection of the one or more wells with a flow controller. Another aspect of the invention provides a method for utilizing a microfluidic device. The method includes: providing a device as described herein; positioning the device adjacent to a microscope; and actuating the interface to operate the microfluidic device.

Abstract: A patterned circuit, including a hydrophilic substrate, a hydrophobic layer formed on the hydrophilic substrate, and a pattern formed in the hydrophobic layer to expose the hydrophilic substrate.

Abstract: A microfluidic system comprising a plurality of photochemical reaction stages, the microfluidic system comprising a computational processor, a plurality of electrically-controllable photochemical reaction stages, and a series of controllable interconnections for connecting the photochemical reaction stages. In an implementation, the computational processor controls the plurality of electrically-controllable photochemical reaction stages and the controllable interconnections so as to implement a multi-step photochemical synthesis function.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates methods for analyzing agricultural and/or environmental samples using liquid bridges. In certain embodiments, the invention provides a method for analyzing an agricultural sample for a desired trait including obtaining a gene or gene product from an agricultural sample, in which the gene or gene product is in a first fluid; providing a liquid bridge for mixing the gene or gene product with at least one reagent to form a mixed droplet that is wrapped in an immiscible second fluid; and analyzing the mixed droplet to detect a desired trait of the agricultural sample.

Abstract: The present relates to a system and method for preventing or reducing unwanted heat in a microfluidic of the device while generating heat in selected regions of the device. Current can be supplied to a heating element through electric leads that are designed so that the current density in the leads is substantially lower than the current density in the heating element. Unwanted heat in the microfluidic complex can be reduced by thermally isolating the electric leads from the microfluidic complex by, for example, running each lead directly away from the microfluidic complex. Unwanted heat can be removed from selected regions of the microfluidic complex using one or more cooling devices.

Abstract: An analytical cartridge and a rotary analytical device with which the cartridge cooperates. The cartridge may have a housing, an axis, analysis chambers spaced from and located circumferentially about the axis, and a magnetically movable element located in and movable within each analysis chamber to mix fluid in the analysis chamber. The rotary analytical device may have a housing with a cavity having an axis, an impeller extending into the cavity and rotatable about the axis to receive and rotate the cartridge, a motor to rotate the impeller, at least one magnetic element near the cavity and offset from the axis, a light source in the housing to direct a beam of light into the cavity and through the analysis chamber of the cartridge, and a light sensor to receive light from the analysis chamber.

Abstract: A microfluidic device may include a sample distribution network including a plurality of sample chambers configured to be loaded with biological sample for biological testing of the biological sample while in the sample chambers, the biological sample having a meniscus that moves within the sample chambers during loading. The sample distribution network may further include a plurality of inlet channels, each inlet channel being in flow communication with and configured to flow biological sample to a respective sample chamber, and a plurality of outlet channels, each outlet channel being in flow communication and configured to flow biological sample from a respective sample chamber. At least some of the sample chambers may include a physical modification configured to control the movement of the meniscus so as to control bubble formation within the at least some sample chambers.

Abstract: A method of forming a device on a substrate comprising creating a depository and at least one attached capillary; the depository being of millimeter scale; providing a liquid containing particles in the range 1 nanometer to 1 millimeter; depositing into the depository the liquid containing particles which flows into at least one capillary by capillary action; evaporating the liquid such that the particles form an agglomerate beginning at the end of the at least one capillary with a substantially uniform distribution of the particles within the agglomerate; which is used to form a device. A microelectronic integrated circuit device comprising a substrate; a depository coupled to said substrate, the depository being formed by at least one wall adjacent to the substrate; at least one capillary channel coupled to at least one depository that is formed by walls adapted to be filled with a liquid (by capillary action) comprising nanoparticles.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for sorting particles moving through a closed channel system of capillary size comprises a bubble valve for selectively generating a pressure pulse to separate a particle having a predetermined characteristic from a stream of particles. The particle sorting system may further include a buffer for absorbing the pressure pulse. The particle sorting system may include a plurality of closely coupled sorting modules which are combined to further increase the sorting rate. The particle sorting system may comprise a multi-stage sorting device for serially sorting streams of particles, in order to decrease the error rate.

Abstract: A sealed microfluidic conduit assembly is fabricated by forming a joint through which a first conduit fluidly communicates with a second conduit, by bringing the first conduit into contact with the second conduit. A layer of malleable material surrounding one or both conduits is compressed against the joint to fluidly seal the joint, by applying a radial force to an outer surface of a jacket surrounding the conduits and malleable layer. The respective compositions and/or sizes of the first conduit and second conduit may be different.

Abstract: The present invention is a flow cell and method for use in microfluidic analyses that presents highly discrete and small volumes of fluid to isolated locations on a two-dimensional surface contained within an open fluidic chamber defined by the flow cell that has physical dimensions such that laminar style flow occurs for fluids flowing through the chamber. This process of location specific fluid addressing within the flow cell is facilitated by combining components of hydrodynamic focusing with site specific cell evacuation. The process does not require the use of physical barriers within the flow cell or mechanical valves to control the paths of fluid movement.

Abstract: The invention relates to a sensor assembly comprising a first electronic wiring substrate having a first and a second surface and at least one analyte sensor formed on the first surface thereof, the at least one analyte sensor being connected with one or more electrical contact points, a second electronic wiring substrate having a first and a second surface and at least one analyte sensor formed on the first surface part thereof, the at least one analyte sensor being connected with one or more electrical contact points, and a spacer having a through-going recess with a first and a second opening, wherein the first substrate, the second substrate and the spacer are arranged in a layered structure, where the first surface of the first substrate closes the first opening of the spacer and the first surface of the second substrate closes the second opening of the spacer, thereby forming a measuring cell which is faced by at least one sensor from each of the substrates.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a device and method of controlling the phase separation of one or a mixture of two or more spider silk proteins, leading to the defined and controllable assembly of the said silk protein(s) to defined morphologies, such as spheres, nano fibrils, threads, etc.

Abstract: A micro fluidic device comprises a micro channel in which a plurality of fluids form laminar flows and are supplied, wherein an inner wall of the micro channel comprise a protruding part that is substantially parallel to the flows of the fluids and protrudes in directions substantially vertical to interfaces formed by the plurality of fluids.

Abstract: A microfluidic device adapted such that the flow of fluids within the device is controlled by different surfaces of the device having different surface characteristics. Preferably the device comprises a substrate not formed from a hydrated oxide material.