University of Wyoming

Debashis Dutta

Michael Taylor

Ravichander Rao Peesara

Robert C Corcoran

In one embodiment, the present invention includes a system for detecting a target analyte which includes a microfluidic device having least one microfluidic channel with a binding surface positioned in the microfluidic channel with further include a first electrode and a second electrode. The system may further include a detector and a voltage supply. Also included is a method to detect a target analyte using a described microfluidics device, introducing solution with a target analyte to a binding surface, and binding the target analyte to the binding surface by applying an electrical potential between the first and second electrodes during at least a portion of the binding step, which enhances the rate of binding of the target analyte molecules to the binding molecules. The method then includes the steps of detecting a reporter molecule which corresponds to the amount of the bound target analyte molecules, which correlates with the amount of target analyte in the original sample. The method may also include multiple applications of sample to the binding surface prior to the detection step.

Methods and devices for detection of biological materials using electric field assisted rapid analyte capture

A platform for sampling viral particles on surfaces and porous structures and in the air. The sampling platform includes, for example, a collection pad configured for quantitating viral loads in a fomite or captured form the air. A reservoir or liquid container is associated with the collection pad for interacting a virus collection zone of the collection pad. A liquid medium is disposed within the container. At least one pump is operably configured to move the liquid medium or air through the collection pad for extracting viral particles from the environment.

Platform for sampling viral particles on surfaces, porous structures, and in the air

Described herein are systems and methods for the generation of electric current and/or electric potential utilizing micro- or nano-channels and capillary flow, including fluidic or microfluidic batteries and electrochemical cells. The provided systems and methods use capillary force to promote fluid flow through micro- and nano-fluidic channels by evaporating fluid at one terminus of the channel, and the resulting fluid flow generates electric potential and or current. Advantageously, the described systems and methods remove the need for pressurized vessels or external pumps, increasing net energy generation and decreasing complexity and size of potential fluidic batteries.

Electrical energy generation in fluidic channels and membranes using spontaneous capillary flow

Provided herein are microfluidic devices and methods useful for sensitive detection of analytes. The methods and devices described herein are also useful for detecting direct or indirect binding of enzymes or catalysts to a surface, for example a surface having analytes bound thereon. Methods disclosed herein include embodiments utilizing a pre-concentration scheme to improve signal levels of corresponding reporter moieties.

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Laramie, WY, United States of America

Debashis Dutta