Abstract: The present invention provides novel microfluidic devices and methods that are useful for performing high-throughput screening assays. In particular, the devices and methods of the invention are useful in screening large numbers of different compounds for their effects on a variety of chemical, and preferably, biochemical systems.

Abstract: The present invention is generally directed to improved methods, structures and systems for interfacing microfluidic devices with ancillary systems that are used in conjunction with such devices. These systems typically include control and monitoring systems (620) for controlling the performance of the processes carried out within the device, e.g., monitoring and controlling environmental conditions and monitoring results of the processes performed, e.g., detection.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel microfluidic devices and methods that are useful for performing high-throughput screening assays. In particular, the devices and methods of the invention are useful in screening large numbers of different compounds for their effects on a variety of chemical, and preferably, biochemical systems.

Abstract: A microfluidic chip formed with multiple fluid channels terminating at a tapered electrospray ionization tip for mass spectrometric analysis. The fluid channels may be formed onto a channel plate that are in fluid communication with corresponding reservoirs. The electrospray tip can be formed along a defined distal portion of the channel plate that can include a single or multiple tapered surfaces. The fluid channels may terminate at an open-tip region of the electrospray tip. A covering plate may substantially enclose most portions of the fluid channels formed on the channel plate except for the open-tip region. Another aspect of the invention provides methods for conducting mass spectrometric analysis of multiple samples flowing through individual fluid channels in a single microfluidic chip that is formed with a tapered electrospray tip having an open-tip region.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices provide substances to a mass spectrometer. The microfluidic devices include first and second surfaces, at least one microchannel formed by the surfaces, and an outlet at an edge of the surfaces. Some embodiments also include a tip surface with one or more surface features for helping guide substances from the outlet of the device toward a mass spectrometer. In some embodiments, the surface feature(s) includes a groove, which may be hydrophilic along all or part of its length. Hydrophilic surfaces and/or hydrophobic surfaces may also help guide substances out of the outlet and/or toward the mass spectrometer. In some embodiments, the outlet and/or the tip surface is recessed back from an adjacent portion of the edge. A source of electrical potential can help move substances through the microchannel, separate substances and/or provide electrospray ionization.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices provide substances to a mass spectrometer. The microfluidic devices include first and second surfaces, at least one microchannel formed by the surfaces, and an outlet at an edge of the surfaces which is recessed back from an adjacent portion of the edge. Hydrophilic surfaces and/or hydrophobic surfaces guide substances out of the outlet. A source of electrical potential can help move substances through the microchannel, separate substances and/or provide electrospray ionization.

Abstract: A microfluidic chip formed with multiple fluid channels terminating at a common electrospray ionization tip for mass spectrometric analysis. The fluid channels may be formed within a substrate plate that are in fluid communication with corresponding reservoirs. The electrospray tip can be formed along a defined portion of the substrate plate, wherein the electrospray tip includes an open-tip region at which the fluid channels converge. A top laminate plate may substantially enclose most portions of the fluid channels formed in the bottom polymer plate except for the open-tip region. Another aspect of the invention provides methods for conducting mass spectrometric analysis of multiple samples flowing through individual fluid channels in a single microfluidic chip that is formed with a convergent electrospray tip. The convergent electrospray tip includes an open or exposed distal pointed tip region.

Abstract: A microfluidic chip formed with multiple fluid channels terminating at a common electrospray ionization tip for mass spectrometric analysis. The fluid channels may be formed within a substrate plate that are in fluid communication with corresponding reservoirs. The electrospray tip can be formed along a defined portion of the substrate plate, wherein the electrospray tip includes an open-tip region at which the fluid channels converge. A top laminate plate may substantially enclose most portions of the fluid channels formed in the bottom polymer plate except for the open-tip region. Another aspect of the invention provides methods for conducting mass spectrometric analysis of multiple samples flowing through individual fluid channels in a single microfluidic chip that is formed with a convergent electrospray tip. The convergent electrospray tip includes an open or exposed distal pointed tip region.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices are provided for the performance of chemical and biochemical analyses, syntheses and detection. The devices of the invention combine precise fluidic control systems with microfabricated polymeric substrates to provide accurate, low cost miniaturized analytical devices that have broad applications in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology and numerous other fields.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices are provided for the performance of chemical and biochemical analyses, syntheses and detection. The devices of the invention combine precise fluidic control systems with microfabricated polymeric substrates to provide accurate, low cost miniaturized analytical devices that have broad applications in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology and numerous other fields.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices are provided for the performance of chemical and biochemical analyses, syntheses and detection. The devices of the invention combine precise fluidic control systems with microfabricated polymeric substrates to provide accurate, low cost miniaturized analytical devices that have broad applications in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology and numerous other fields.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices are provided for the performance of chemical and biochemical analyses, syntheses and detection. The devices of the invention combine precise fluidic control systems with microfabricated polymeric substrates to provide accurate, low cost miniaturized analytical devices that have broad applications in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology and numerous other fields.

Abstract: Microfluidic devices are provided for the performance of chemical and biochemical analyses, syntheses and detection. The devices of the invention combine precise fluidic control systems with microfabricated polymeric substrates to provide accurate, low cost miniaturized analytical devices that have broad applications in the fields of chemistry, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology and numerous other fields.