Work

Self-Digitization of Samples into a High-Density Microfluidic Bottom-Well Array

Year: 2013

Type: article

Abstract: This paper describes a sample digitization method that generates tens of thousands of nanoliter-sized droplets in a high-density array in a matter of minutes. We show that the sample digitization depends on both the geometric design of the microfluidic device and the viscoelastic forces between the aqueous sample and a continuous oil phase. Our design avoids sample loss: Samples are split into tens of thousands of discrete volumes with close to 100% efficiency without the need for any expensive valving or pumping systems. We envision this technology will have broad applications that require simple sample digitization within minutes, such as digital polymerase chain reactions and single-cell studies.

Source: Analytical Chemistry

DOI: 10.1021/ac402383n

Authors: Thomas Schneider, Gloria S. Yen, Alison M. Thompson, Daniel R. Burnham, Daniel T. Chiu

Institution: University of Washington

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Microfluidic and Catalytic Techniques Innovation

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institute of General Medical Sciences, National Center for Research Resources

Awards: G159068579, Sample self digitization for digital and real-time PCR, Sample self digitization for digital and real-time PCR