Microfluidic sample preparation for immunoassays

摘要

Researchers at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory are developing means to collect and identify fluid-based biological parthogens in the forms of proteins, viruses, and bacteria. To support detection instruments, we are developing a flexible fluidic sample preparation unit. The overall goal of this Microfludic Module is to input a fluid sample, containing background particulates and potentially target compounds, and deliver a processed sample for detection. We are developing techniques for sample purification, mixing, and filtration that would be useful to many applications including immunologic and nucleic acid assays. Many of these fluidic functions are accomplished with acoustic radiation pressure or dielectrophoresis. We are integrating these technologies into packaged systems with pumps and valves to control fluid flow through the fluidic circuit.