An Advanced Platform for Biomolecular Detection and Analysis Systems
Abstract
A comprehensive new approach to the rapid and flexible construction of microfluidic-based systems for biological and chemical (BC) agent detection has been demonstrated. The foundation of the approach is a new manufacturing process called MicroFluidic Tectonics that combines responsive hydrogel materials with novel liquid phase Microfluidic construction methods. The approach addresses several critical issues relevant to BC agent defense - simple device fabrication, just-in-time manufacturing, integration of all system functions through "in situ" fabrication, simple operation, self-regulation of on chip flow, no electrical power, rapid and highly adaptable to changing needs. MicroFluidic Tectonics (microFT) processes capable of manufacturing elegant (operationally simple, but functionally complex) microfluidic systems in the field were developed. In addition, methods for the creation of novel BC sensing systems that directly couple micro scale detection to macro scale alerts were shown. The systems are capable of performing sample preparation steps and can detect host defense toxins. In addition, advanced concepts in truly three dimensional functional polymer structures and heterogeneous materials integration were demonstrated. Modeling and material characterization capabilities to not only understand hydrogels better but also to enable design of innovative applications based on hydrogels were also established. A representative assay was used to develop and test the systems including botulinum toxin detection. The MicroFluidic Tectonics platform has broad potential applications across all layers of BC detection, analysis and response as well as many non BC warfare applications such as environmental toxicology, clinical detection and diagnosis, chemical synthesis, etc.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA432950
Entities
People
- David J Beebe
Organizations
- University of Wisconsin–Madison