University System of Maryland

Alex Sposito

Donald Lad DeVoe

Eric L Kendall

Don DeVoe

A microfluidic device including at least one channel in fluid communication with a sample trap array. Specifically, the configuration and geometry of the trap arrays according to the present invention allows for performing sample digitization that supports passive self-discretization within the sample traps without the need for any external flow control or actuation. Geometrical parameters defining the sample traps, including the trap width and the trap depth, are selected to optimize self-filling of the sample traps. Reagents are incorporated into the sample traps during device fabrication to allow for performing multiplexed reactions within the sample traps.

Trap arrays for robust microfluidic sample digitization

The present invention relates to a microfluidic system including a temperature controller and a thermoplastic microfluidic chip that enables rapid PCR in a PCR chamber of the microfluidic chip. Thermal control of the PCR chamber is achieved by applying voltage to heater electrodes patterned directly onto one layer of the microfluidic chip. The temperature controller adjusts the voltage applied to the heater electrodes by changing temperature controller parameters selected to minimize duration of each PCR cycle. Furthermore, simple operation of the microfluidic chip is provided through using an integrated passive capillary valve, requiring minimum operator intervention and eliminating the need for fluidic interfacing, pumping, or metering during chip loading.

Growing community of inventors

College Park, MD, United States of America

Alex Sposito