Gail Vinnacombe

Title: Gail Vinnacombe: Innovator in Microfluidic Technology

Introduction

Gail Vinnacombe is a prominent inventor based in Los Angeles, CA. She has made significant contributions to the field of microfluidic devices, particularly through her innovative use of anisotropic nanostructures. Her work focuses on the binding and optional release of molecules and cells, which has important implications for medical diagnostics and treatment.

Latest Patents

Gail Vinnacombe holds a patent for "Systems and methods of using anisotropic nanostructures in microfluidic devices for binding and optional release of molecules and cells." This patent describes systems and methods that utilize metal nanostructures synthesized in situ along the internal surfaces of a microfluidic device. The nanostructures are formed by the initial deposition of metallic seeds, followed by the introduction of growth and reducing agent solutions into the microfluidic channels. These nanostructures can be functionalized with capture ligands to selectively bind to specific cells, such as circulating tumor cells. The cells can then be removed using a laser beam that induces localized heating at the surface locations containing the nanostructures. Additionally, the plasmonic nature of the nanostructures allows for the acquisition of Raman spectra of bound molecules for identification and quantification.

Career Highlights

Gail Vinnacombe is affiliated with the University of California, where she continues to advance her research in microfluidic technology. Her innovative approaches have garnered attention in the scientific community, and her work is paving the way for new applications in healthcare and diagnostics.

Collaborations

Gail has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Leonardo Scarabelli and Liv Heidenreich. These partnerships have enhanced her research efforts and contributed to the development of cutting-edge technologies in her field.

Conclusion

Gail Vinnacombe's contributions to microfluidic technology through her innovative patent demonstrate her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and improving medical applications. Her work continues to inspire future innovations in the field.