Automated method for performing an assay

Abstract

An automated method for performing an assay of the present disclosure can be performed in a microfluidic device that is a lateral flow device having numerous features to ensure correct operation of the device under gravity, such as vent pockets for enabling the flow of sample fluid from one chamber to the next when the vent pocket is unsealed. Each chamber can have a reagent recess proximal to an inlet end of the chamber. A reagent pellet formed in a reagent recess can be effectively mixed with a sample as the sample flows into the chamber. A flexible circuit with patterned metallic electrical components disposed on a heat stable material can be in direct contact with fluid in the chambers and has resistive heating elements aligned with, for example, a chamber for performing an amplification reaction. A lateral flow detection chamber can include a capillary pool proximal to a sample receiving end of a lateral flow strip, providing effective mixing and dispersion of a sample with detection particles, as well as enhancing, uniformity of particle migration on the detection strip. The microfluidic device can be configured to be hermetically sealed, thereby preventing contamination of a testing environment.