Fluxion Biosciences, Inc.

University of California

Cristian Ionescu-Zanetti

Michael Schwartz

Michelle Khine

Jeff C Jensen

Luke P Lee

Jeonggi Seo

Joshua Tanner Nevill

Andrew Blatz

Carolyn G Conant

Roger Rudoff

Nicholas Kamps-Hughes

Adrian Lau

The invention discloses diagnostic techniques based on single cell genomics, consisting of obtaining a blood sample, enriching a sub-population of cells present in the blood sample, sequestering individual cells or group of cells from the blood sample, obtaining sequencing data from the sequestered cells or group of cells, using genetic variant information to determine the provenance of the cells, and genetically analyzing the cells of the correct provenance to provide a diagnostic readout. Using the cell-based testing techniques of the invention, the number of false positives is greatly reduced when compared to cell-free DNA (cfDNA) based traditional testing techniques. The invention may be effectively employed for non-invasive prenatal (NIPT) diagnostics, oncological testing and other diagnostic procedures.

Molecular characterization of single cells and cell populations for non-invasive diagnostics

The invention discloses methods and apparatuses for the detection and diagnostics of genetic alterations/mutations in a target sample, which may be a solid tissue or a bodily fluid. A reference sample is also acquired, and the target and reference samples are replicated into multiple target and reference replicates. The replicates are sequenced, and the sequence data is analyzed based on a statistical test. The statistical test compares the measurements between the target and reference replicates at respective allelic indices. True positive calls are then made based on the results of the statistical testing, and the desired genetic alterations/mutations are identified at the base-pair level. The invention may be used for diagnostics related to cancer, auto-immune disease, organ transplant rejection, genetic fetal abnormalities and pathogens.

Methods and systems for ultra-sensitive detection of genomic alterations

Methods, microfluidic devices, and instruments for magnetic separation of particles from a fluid are described. Examples include microfluidic devices having a removable portion. Examples include microfluidic devices having one or more regions of reduced fluid velocity. Examples further including instruments having pneumatic interfaces. Examples further includes instruments having controllable magnets, imaging components, or combinations thereof.

Devices, systems, and methods for magnetic separation

Apparatus and methods are provided for analysis of individual particles in a microfluidic device. The methods involve the immobilization of an array of particles in suspension and the application of experimental compounds. Such methods can also include electrophysiology studies including patch clamp recording, electroporation, or both in the same microfluidic device. The apparatus provided includes a microfluidic device coupled to a multi-well structure and an interface for controlling the flow of media within the microchannel device.

Methods and apparatus for the manipulation of particle suspensions and testing thereof

Method and systems provide improved cell handling in microfluidic systems and devices using lateral cell trapping and methods of fabrication of the same that allow for selective low voltage electroporation and electrofusion.

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Berkeley, CA, United States of America

Cristian Ionescu-Zanetti