Abstract: Described herein is a system and method for determining the presence and/or amount of a target in a sample. In some embodiments, a microfluidic device, such as a strip having a microfluidic network thereon, is inserted into an instrument to perform an assay therein. The strip may be configured to receive the sample from a porous member via capillary action, with minimal or no compression of the porous member. The instrument may include a gas bladder actuation assembly, actuated by an eccentric cam, to compress and decompress a gas bladder on the microfluidic device, thereby enabling fluid movement thereon. The instrument may further comprise a magnet disposed in a fixed location, so as to capture any complexes formed between the target and magnetic particles disposed within the microfluidic device. The magnet may be aligned with an optical detection assembly configured to detect the target captured with the magnetic particles.

Abstract: A diagnostic system for determining the presence of a target in a sample liquid that includes a diagnostic reader and a microfluidic strip having a microfluidic channel network therein. An actuator within the reader modifies the pressure of a gas in gaseous communication with a liquid-gas interface of a sample liquid within the microfluidic channel network to move and/or mix the sample liquid. The pressure modifications may be continuous and/or oscillatory.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a microfluidic assay system and associated reading device, as well as the individual components themselves. The present invention also relates to methods of conducting assays, using a disposable system and associated reading device, as well as kits for conducting assays.

Abstract: The present invention relates to methods for detecting an analyte present in a fluid sample using a microfluidic device comprising a detection zone characterized by an optically transmissible portion and reagent(s) associated with a porous matrix, wherein the analyte is detected with an optical detector. The present invention also provides a microfluidic channel and a microfluidic cartridge for use in such a method.