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Cinti S, Singh S, Covone G, Tonietti L, Ricciardelli A, Cordone A, Iacono R, Mazzoli A, Moracci M, Rotundi A, Giovannelli D. Reviewing the state of biosensors and lab-on-a- chip technologies: opportunities for extreme environments and space exploration. Front Microbiol 2023; 14:1215529. [PMID: 37664111 PMCID: PMC10470837 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2023.1215529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The space race is entering a new era of exploration, in which the number of robotic and human missions to various places in our solar system is rapidly increasing. Despite the recent advances in propulsion and life support technologies, there is a growing need to perform analytical measurements and laboratory experiments across diverse domains of science, while keeping low payload requirements. In this context, lab-on-a-chip nanobiosensors appear to be an emerging technology capable of revolutionizing space exploration, given their low footprint, high accuracy, and low payload requirements. To date, only some approaches for monitoring astronaut health in spacecraft environments have been reported. Although non-invasive molecular diagnostics, like lab-on-a-chip technology, are expected to improve the quality of long-term space missions, their application to monitor microbiological and environmental variables is rarely reported, even for analogous extreme environments on Earth. The possibility of evaluating the occurrence of unknown or unexpected species, identifying redox gradients relevant to microbial metabolism, or testing for specific possible biosignatures, will play a key role in the future of space microbiology. In this review, we will examine the current and potential roles of lab-on-a-chip technology in space exploration and in extreme environment investigation, reporting what has been tested so far, and clarifying the direction toward which the newly developed technologies of portable lab-on-a-chip sensors are heading for exploration in extreme environments and in space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Cinti
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- BAT Center-Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology, University of Napoli Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Bioelectronics Task Force at University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Sima Singh
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Covone
- Department of Physics, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Tonietti
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Angelina Cordone
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Roberta Iacono
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Arianna Mazzoli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Marco Moracci
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
- Institute of Biosciences and Bioresources, National Research Council of Italy, Naples, Italy
| | - Alessandra Rotundi
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Naples Parthenope, Naples, Italy
- INAF-IAPS, Istituto di Astrofisica e Planetologie Spaziali, Rome, Italy
| | - Donato Giovannelli
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- Task Force on Microbiome Studies, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- National Research Council–Institute of Marine Biological Resources and Biotechnologies–CNR-IRBIM, Ancona, Italy
- Earth-Life Science Institute, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo, Japan
- Marine Chemistry and Geochemistry Department, Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, Woods Hole, MA, United States
- Department of Marine and Coastal Science, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, United States
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Van Volkenburg T, Benzing JS, Craft KL, Ohiri K, Kilhefner A, Irons K, Bradburne C. Microfluidic Chromatography for Enhanced Amino Acid Detection at Ocean Worlds. ASTROBIOLOGY 2022; 22:1116-1128. [PMID: 35984944 PMCID: PMC9508454 DOI: 10.1089/ast.2021.0182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Increasing interest in the detection of biogenic signatures, such as amino acids, on icy moons and bodies within our solar system has led to the development of compact in situ instruments. Given the expected dilute biosignatures and high salinities of these extreme environments, purification of icy samples before analysis enables increased detection sensitivity. Herein, we outline a novel compact cation exchange method to desalinate proteinogenic amino acids in solution, independent of the type and concentration of salts in the sample. Using a modular microfluidic device, initial experiments explored operational limits of binding capacity with phenylalanine and three model cations, Na+, Mg2+, and Ca2+. Phenylalanine recovery (94-17%) with reduced conductivity (30-200 times) was seen at high salt-to-amino-acid ratios between 25:1 and 500:1. Later experiments tested competition between mixtures of 17 amino acids and other chemistries present in a terrestrial ocean sample. Recoveries ranged from 11% to 85% depending on side chain chemistry and cation competition, with concentration shown for select high affinity amino acids. This work outlines a nondestructive amino acid purification device capable of coupling to multiple downstream analytical techniques for improved characterization of icy samples at remote ocean worlds.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kathleen L. Craft
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland, USA
| | - Korine Ohiri
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland, USA
| | - Ashley Kilhefner
- Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, Laurel, Maryland, USA
| | - Kristen Irons
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill College of Arts and Sciences, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
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Mora MF, Kok MGM, Noell A, Willis PA. Detection of Biosignatures by Capillary Electrophoresis Mass Spectrometry in the Presence of Salts Relevant to Ocean Worlds Missions. ASTROBIOLOGY 2022; 22:914-925. [PMID: 35913998 DOI: 10.1089/ast.2021.0091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a promising liquid-based technique for in situ chemical analysis on ocean worlds that allows the detection of a wide range of organic molecules relevant to the search for life. CE coupled with mass spectrometry (MS) is particularly valuable as it also enables the discovery of unknown compounds. Here we demonstrate that CE coupled to MS via electrospray ionization (ESI) can readily analyze samples containing up to half the saturation levels of salts relevant to ocean worlds when using 5 M acetic acid as the separation media. A mixture containing amino acids, peptides, nucleobases, and nucleosides was analyzed in the presence of two salts, NaCl and MgSO4, based on their relevance to Europa and Enceladus. We demonstrate here CE-MS limits of detection for these organics ranging from 0.05 to 1 μM (8 to 89 ppb) in the absence of salts. More importantly, we demonstrate here for the first time that organics in the low micromolar range (1-50 μM) are detected by CE-MS in the presence of 3 M NaCl without desalting, preconcentration, or derivatization. This demonstration highlights how CE-MS is uniquely suited for organic analysis on future missions to ocean worlds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Mora
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Miranda G M Kok
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Aaron Noell
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Peter A Willis
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
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Zhang M, Smejkal P, Bester N, Robertson J, Atia MA, Townsend AT, Guijt RM, Breadmore MC. Inexpensive Portable Capillary Electrophoresis Instrument for Monitoring Zinc(II) in Remote Areas. J Chromatogr A 2022; 1668:462895. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2022.462895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Chatterjee K, Graybill PM, Socha JJ, Davalos RV, Staples AE. Frequency-specific, valveless flow control in insect-mimetic microfluidic devices. BIOINSPIRATION & BIOMIMETICS 2021; 16:036004. [PMID: 33561847 DOI: 10.1088/1748-3190/abe4bc] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Inexpensive, portable lab-on-a-chip devices would revolutionize fields like environmental monitoring and global health, but current microfluidic chips are tethered to extensive off-chip hardware. Insects, however, are self-contained and expertly manipulate fluids at the microscale using largely unexplored methods. We fabricated a series of microfluidic devices that mimic key features of insect respiratory kinematics observed by synchrotron-radiation imaging, including the collapse of portions of multiple respiratory tracts in response to a single fluctuating pressure signal. In one single-channel device, the flow rate and direction could be controlled by the actuation frequency alone, without the use of internal valves. Additionally, we fabricated multichannel chips whose individual channels responded selectively (on with a variable, frequency-dependent flow rate, or off) to a single, global actuation frequency. Our results demonstrate that insect-mimetic designs have the potential to drastically reduce the actuation overhead for microfluidic chips, and that insect respiratory systems may share features with impedance-mismatch pumps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishnashis Chatterjee
- Laboratory for Fluid Dynamics in Nature, Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
- Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
| | - Philip M Graybill
- Bioelectromechanical Systems Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
- Mechanical Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
| | - John J Socha
- Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
| | - Rafael V Davalos
- Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
- Bioelectromechanical Systems Laboratory, Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
| | - Anne E Staples
- Laboratory for Fluid Dynamics in Nature, Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
- Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, United States of America
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Fukuba T, Fujii T. Lab-on-a-chip technology for in situ combined observations in oceanography. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:55-74. [PMID: 33300537 DOI: 10.1039/d0lc00871k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The oceans sustain the global environment and diverse ecosystems through a variety of biogeochemical processes and their complex interactions. In order to understand the dynamism of the local or global marine environments, multimodal combined observations must be carried out in situ. On the other hand, instrumentation of in situ measurement techniques enabling biological and/or biochemical combined observations is challenging in aquatic environments, including the ocean, because biochemical flow analyses require a more complex configuration than physicochemical electrode sensors. Despite this technical hurdle, in situ analyzers have been developed to measure the concentrations of seawater contents such as nutrients, trace metals, and biological components. These technologies have been used for cutting-edge ocean observations to elucidate the biogeochemical properties of water mass with a high spatiotemporal resolution. In this context, the contribution of lab-on-a-chip (LoC) technology toward the miniaturization and functional integration of in situ analyzers has been gaining momentum. Due to their mountability, in situ LoC technologies provide ideal instrumentation for underwater analyzers, especially for miniaturized underwater observation platforms. Consequently, the appropriate combination of reliable LoC and underwater technologies is essential to realize practical in situ LoC analyzers suitable for underwater environments, including the deep sea. Moreover, the development of fundamental LoC technologies for underwater analyzers, which operate stably in extreme environments, should also contribute to in situ measurements for public or industrial purposes in harsh environments as well as the exploration of the extraterrestrial frontier.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuhiro Fukuba
- Institute for Marine-Earth Exploration and Engineering, Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, Natsushima-cho 2-15, Yokosuka, Kanagawa 237-0061, Japan.
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7
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The resource gateway: Microfluidics and requirements engineering for sustainable space systems. Chem Eng Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ces.2020.115774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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8
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Duca ZA, Speller NC, Cantrell T, Stockton AM. A modular, easy-to-use microcapillary electrophoresis system with laser-induced fluorescence for quantitative compositional analysis of trace organic molecules. THE REVIEW OF SCIENTIFIC INSTRUMENTS 2020; 91:104101. [PMID: 33138565 DOI: 10.1063/5.0008734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microcapillary electrophoresis (μCE) enables high-resolution separations in miniaturized, automated microfluidic devices. Pairing this powerful separation technique with laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) enables a highly sensitive, quantitative, and compositional analysis of organic molecule monomers and short polymers, which are essential, ubiquitous components of life on Earth. Improving methods for their detection has applications to multiple scientific fields, particularly those related to medicine, industry, and space science. Here, a modular benchtop system using μCE with LIF detection was constructed and tested by analyzing standard amino acid samples of valine, serine, alanine, glycine, glutamic acid, and aspartic acid in multiple borate buffered solutions of increasing concentrations from 10 mM to 50 mM, all pH 9.5. The 35 mM borate buffer solution generated the highest resolution before Joule heating dominated. The limits of detection of alanine and glycine using 35 mM borate buffer were found to be 2.12 nM and 2.91 nM, respectively, comparable to other state-of-the-art μCE-LIF instruments. This benchtop system is amenable to a variety of detectors, including a photomultiplier tube, a silicon photomultiplier, or a spectrometer, and currently employs a spectrometer for facile multi-wavelength detection. Furthermore, the microdevice is easily exchanged to fit the desired application of the system, and optical components within the central filter cube can be easily replaced to target alternative fluorescent dyes. This work represents a significant step forward for the analysis of small organic molecules and biopolymers using μCE-LIF systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary A Duca
- Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
| | | | - Thomas Cantrell
- Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia 30332, USA
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Cardoso RM, dos Santos RO, Munoz RAA, Garcia CD, Blanes L. A Multi-Pump Magnetohydrodynamics Lab-On-A-Chip Device for Automated Flow Control and Analyte Delivery. SENSORS 2020; 20:s20174909. [PMID: 32877999 PMCID: PMC7506898 DOI: 10.3390/s20174909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2020] [Revised: 08/15/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This article shows the development of a computer-controlled lab-on-a-chip device with three magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) pumps and a pneumatic valve. The chip was made of a stack of layers of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), cut using a laser engraver and thermally bonded. The MHD pumps were built using permanent magnets (neodymium) and platinum electrodes, all of them controlled by an Arduino board and a set of relays. The implemented pumps were able to drive solutions in the open channels with a flow rate that increased proportionally with the channel width and applied voltage. To address the characteristic low pressures generated by this kind of pump, all channels were interconnected. Because the electrodes were immersed in the electrolyte, causing electrolysis and pH variations, the composition and ionic strength of the electrolyte solution were controlled. Additionally, side structures for releasing bubbles were integrated. With this multi-pump and valve solution, the device was used to demonstrate the possibility of performing an injection sequence in a system that resembles a traditional flow injection analysis system. Ultimately, the results demonstrate the possibility of performing injection sequences using an array of MHD pumps that can perform fluid handling in the 0-5 µL s-1 range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael M. Cardoso
- Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia 38400-000, Brazil; (R.M.C.); (R.A.A.M.)
| | - Robson O. dos Santos
- Laboratory for Applied Science and Technology in Health, Carlos Chagas Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil;
| | - Rodrigo A. A. Munoz
- Institute of Chemistry, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia 38400-000, Brazil; (R.M.C.); (R.A.A.M.)
| | - Carlos D. Garcia
- Department of Chemistry, Clemson University, Clemson, SC 29634, USA
- Correspondence: (C.D.G); (L.B.)
| | - Lucas Blanes
- Laboratory for Applied Science and Technology in Health, Carlos Chagas Institute, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil;
- Correspondence: (C.D.G); (L.B.)
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Mora MF, Kehl F, Tavares da Costa E, Bramall N, Willis PA. Fully Automated Microchip Electrophoresis Analyzer for Potential Life Detection Missions. Anal Chem 2020; 92:12959-12966. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.0c01628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Maria F. Mora
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91109, United States
| | - Florian Kehl
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91109, United States
| | - Eric Tavares da Costa
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91109, United States
| | - Nathan Bramall
- Leiden Measurement Technology LLC, 1230 Mountain View-Alviso Road Suite A, Sunnyvale, California 94089, United States
| | - Peter A. Willis
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California 91109, United States
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Fan Z, Feng X, Zhang W, Zhang X, Lin JM. Rapid detection of high-risk HPV16 and HPV18 based on microchip electrophoresis. J Pharm Anal 2020; 10:329-333. [PMID: 32923006 PMCID: PMC7474136 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpha.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Researches on detection of human papillomavirus (HPV) high-risk samples were carried out by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) coupled with microchip electrophoresis (MCE). Herein, we introduced a simple, rapid, automated method for detecting high-risk samples HPV16 and HPV18. In this research, general primers were initially selected to obtain sufficient detectable yield by PCR to verify feasibility of MCM method for HPV detection, then type-specific primers were further used to evaluate the specificity of MCE method. The results indicated MCE method was capable of specifically detecting high-risk HPV16 and HPV18, and also enabled simultaneous detection of multiplex samples. This MCE method described here has been successfully applied to HPV detection and displayed excellent reliability demonstrating by sequencing results. The inherent capability of MCE facilitated HPV detection conducted in a small chip with automated, high throughput, massive parallelized analysis. We envision that MCE method will definitely pave a way for clinical diagnosis, and even on-site screening of cervical cancer. A rapid, automatic assay was established for HPV detection. The described method exhibited the advantages of facile operation mode. The proposed method is of high sensitivity, specificity and reproducibility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoxuan Fan
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, PR China.,Department of Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, PR China
| | - Xiao Feng
- Department of Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, PR China.,State Key Laboratory of Chemical Resource Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Weifei Zhang
- Department of Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, PR China
| | - Xueji Zhang
- Research Center for Bioengineering and Sensing Technology, School of Chemistry and Biological Engineering, University of Science and Technology Beijing, Beijing, 100083, PR China.,School of Biomedical Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, PR China
| | - Jin-Ming Lin
- Department of Chemistry, Beijing Key Laboratory of Microanalytical Methods and Instrumentation, MOE Key Laboratory of Bioorganic Phosphorus Chemistry & Chemical Biology, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, PR China
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"The Smartphone's Guide to the Galaxy": In Situ Analysis in Space. BIOSENSORS-BASEL 2018; 8:bios8040096. [PMID: 30347742 PMCID: PMC6316803 DOI: 10.3390/bios8040096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 10/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/13/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
A human mission to Mars can be viewed as the apex of human technological achievement. However, to make this dream a reality several obstacles need to be overcome. One is devising practical ways to safeguard the crew health during the mission through the development of easy operable and compact sensors. Lately, several smartphone-based sensing devices (SBDs) with the purpose to enable the immediate sensitive detection of chemicals, proteins or pathogens in remote settings have emerged. In this critical review, the potential to piggyback these systems for in situ analysis in space has been investigated on application of a systematic keyword search whereby the most relevant articles were examined comprehensively and existing SBDs were divided into 4 relevant groups for the monitoring of crew health during space missions. Recently developed recognition elements (REs), which could offer the enhanced ability to tolerate those harsh conditions in space, have been reviewed with recommendations offered. In addition, the potential use of cell free synthetic biology to obtain long-term shelf-stable reagents was reviewed. Finally, a synopsis of the possibilities of combining novel SBD, RE and nanomaterials to create a compact sensor-platform ensuring adequate crew health monitoring has been provided.
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Creamer JS, Mora MF, Willis PA. Enhanced Resolution of Chiral Amino Acids with Capillary Electrophoresis for Biosignature Detection in Extraterrestrial Samples. Anal Chem 2016; 89:1329-1337. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.6b04338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jessica S. Creamer
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, California 91109, United States
| | - Maria F. Mora
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, California 91109, United States
| | - Peter A. Willis
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, 4800 Oak Grove Drive, Pasadena, California 91109, United States
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Jang LW, Razu ME, Jensen EC, Jiao H, Kim J. A fully automated microfluidic micellar electrokinetic chromatography analyzer for organic compound detection. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:3558-3564. [PMID: 27507322 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00790b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
An integrated microfluidic chemical analyzer utilizing micellar electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) is developed using a pneumatically actuated Lifting-Gate microvalve array and a capillary zone electrophoresis (CZE) chip. Each of the necessary liquid handling processes such as metering, mixing, transferring, and washing steps are performed autonomously by the microvalve array. In addition, a method is presented for automated washing of the high resistance CZE channel for device reuse and periodic automated in situ analyses. To demonstrate the functionality of this MEKC platform, amino acids and thiols are labeled and efficiently separated via a fully automated program. Reproducibility of the automated programs for sample labeling and periodic in situ MEKC analysis was tested and found to be equivalent to conventional sample processing techniques for capillary electrophoresis analysis. This platform enables simple, portable, and automated chemical compound analysis which can be used in challenging environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee-Woon Jang
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX79409, USA.
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15
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Gorbatsova J, Jaanus M, Vaher M, Kaljurand M. Digital microfluidics platform for interfacing solid-liquid extraction column with portable capillary electropherograph for analysis of soil amino acids. Electrophoresis 2015; 37:472-5. [DOI: 10.1002/elps.201500284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2015] [Revised: 09/18/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Gorbatsova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science; Tallinn University of Technology; Tallinn Estonia
| | - Martin Jaanus
- Department of Computer Control, Faculty of Information Technology; Tallinn University of Technology; Tallinn Estonia
| | - Merike Vaher
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science; Tallinn University of Technology; Tallinn Estonia
| | - Mihkel Kaljurand
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science; Tallinn University of Technology; Tallinn Estonia
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Willis PA, Creamer JS, Mora MF. Implementation of microchip electrophoresis instrumentation for future spaceflight missions. Anal Bioanal Chem 2015; 407:6939-63. [PMID: 26253225 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-015-8903-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
We present a comprehensive discussion of the role that microchip electrophoresis (ME) instrumentation could play in future NASA missions of exploration, as well as the current barriers that must be overcome to make this type of chemical investigation possible. We describe how ME would be able to fill fundamental gaps in our knowledge of the potential for past, present, or future life beyond Earth. Despite the great promise of ME for ultrasensitive portable chemical analysis, to date, it has never been used on a robotic mission of exploration to another world. We provide a current snapshot of the technology readiness level (TRL) of ME instrumentation, where the TRL is the NASA systems engineering metric used to evaluate the maturity of technology, and its fitness for implementation on missions. We explain how the NASA flight implementation process would apply specifically to ME instrumentation, and outline the scientific and technology development issues that must be addressed for ME analyses to be performed successfully on another world. We also outline research demonstrations that could be accomplished by independent researchers to help advance the TRL of ME instrumentation for future exploration missions. The overall approach described here for system development could be readily applied to a wide range of other instrumentation development efforts having broad societal and commercial impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A Willis
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, 4800 Oak Grove Dr., Pasadena, CA, 91109, USA,
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18
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Saylor RA, Lunte SM. A review of microdialysis coupled to microchip electrophoresis for monitoring biological events. J Chromatogr A 2015; 1382:48-64. [PMID: 25637011 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2014.12.086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2014] [Revised: 12/23/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Microdialysis is a powerful sampling technique that enables monitoring of dynamic processes in vitro and in vivo. The combination of microdialysis with chromatographic or electrophoretic methods with selective detection yields a "separation-based sensor" capable of monitoring multiple analytes in near real time. For monitoring biological events, analysis of microdialysis samples often requires techniques that are fast (<1 min), have low volume requirements (nL-pL), and, ideally, can be employed on-line. Microchip electrophoresis fulfills these requirements and also permits the possibility of integrating sample preparation and manipulation with detection strategies directly on-chip. Microdialysis coupled to microchip electrophoresis has been employed for monitoring biological events in vivo and in vitro. This review discusses technical considerations for coupling microdialysis sampling and microchip electrophoresis, including various interface designs, and current applications in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Saylor
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA; Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA.
| | - Susan M Lunte
- Department of Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66045, USA; Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA; Ralph N. Adams Institute for Bioanalytical Chemistry, University of Kansas, Lawrence, KS 66047, USA.
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Mora MF, Stockton AM, Willis PA. Analysis of thiols by microchip capillary electrophoresis for in situ planetary investigations. Methods Mol Biol 2015; 1274:43-52. [PMID: 25673481 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-2353-3_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
Microchip capillary electrophoresis with laser-induced fluorescence detection (μCE-LIF) enables sensitive analyses of a wide range of analytes employing small volumes of sample and reagent (nL to μL) on an instrument platform with minimal mass, volume, and power requirements. This technique has been used previously in the analysis of amino acids and other organic molecules of interest in the fields of astrobiology and planetary science. Here, we present a protocol for the analysis of thiols using μCE-LIF. This protocol utilizes Pacific Blue C5-maleimide for fluorescent derivatization of thiols, enabling limits of detection in the low nM range (1.4-15 nM). Separations are conducted in micellar electrokinetic chromatography mode with 25 mM sodium dodecyl sulfate in 15 mM tetraborate, pH 9.2. This method allows analysis of 12 thiols in less than 2 min following a labeling step of 2 h. A step-by-step protocol, including tips on microchip capillary electrophoresis, is described here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Mora
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Mail Stop 302-231, 4800 Oak Grove Dr., Pasadena, CA, 91109, USA
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20
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Present state of microchip electrophoresis: state of the art and routine applications. J Chromatogr A 2014; 1382:66-85. [PMID: 25529267 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2014.11.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 130] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Revised: 11/07/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Microchip electrophoresis (MCE) was one of the earliest applications of the micro-total analysis system (μ-TAS) concept, whose aim is to reduce analysis time and reagent and sample consumption while increasing throughput and portability by miniaturizing analytical laboratory procedures onto a microfluidic chip. More than two decades on, electrophoresis remains the most common separation technique used in microfluidic applications. MCE-based instruments have had some commercial success and have found application in many disciplines. This review will consider the present state of MCE including recent advances in technology and both novel and routine applications in the laboratory. We will also attempt to assess the impact of MCE in the scientific community and its prospects for the future.
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21
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da Costa ET, Mora MF, Willis PA, do Lago CL, Jiao H, Garcia CD. Getting started with open-hardware: development and control of microfluidic devices. Electrophoresis 2014; 35:2370-7. [PMID: 24823494 PMCID: PMC4176689 DOI: 10.1002/elps.201400128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2014] [Revised: 05/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Understanding basic concepts of electronics and computer programming allows researchers to get the most out of the equipment found in their laboratories. Although a number of platforms have been specifically designed for the general public and are supported by a vast array of on-line tutorials, this subject is not normally included in university chemistry curricula. Aiming to provide the basic concepts of hardware and software, this article is focused on the design and use of a simple module to control a series of PDMS-based valves. The module is based on a low-cost microprocessor (Teensy) and open-source software (Arduino). The microvalves were fabricated using thin sheets of PDMS and patterned using CO2 laser engraving, providing a simple and efficient way to fabricate devices without the traditional photolithographic process or facilities. Synchronization of valve control enabled the development of two simple devices to perform injection (1.6 ± 0.4 μL/stroke) and mixing of different solutions. Furthermore, a practical demonstration of the utility of this system for microscale chemical sample handling and analysis was achieved performing an on-chip acid-base titration, followed by conductivity detection with an open-source low-cost detection system. Overall, the system provided a very reproducible (98%) platform to perform fluid delivery at the microfluidic scale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric Tavares da Costa
- Department of Chemistry, The University of Texas at San Antonio
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo
| | - Maria F. Mora
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA, USA
| | - Peter A. Willis
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena CA, USA
| | - Claudimir L. do Lago
- Departamento de Química Fundamental, Instituto de Química, Universidade de São Paulo
| | - Hong Jiao
- HJ Science & Technology, 2929 Seventh Street, Suite 120, Berkeley, CA 94710 Berkeley, CA, USA
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22
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Kim J, Jensen EC, Stockton AM, Mathies RA. Universal Microfluidic Automaton for Autonomous Sample Processing: Application to the Mars Organic Analyzer. Anal Chem 2013; 85:7682-8. [DOI: 10.1021/ac303767m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jungkyu Kim
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United
States
| | - Erik C. Jensen
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United
States
| | - Amanda M. Stockton
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United
States
| | - Richard A. Mathies
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California 94720, United
States
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Nge PN, Rogers CI, Woolley AT. Advances in microfluidic materials, functions, integration, and applications. Chem Rev 2013; 113:2550-83. [PMID: 23410114 PMCID: PMC3624029 DOI: 10.1021/cr300337x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 515] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Pamela N. Nge
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602
| | - Chad I. Rogers
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602
| | - Adam T. Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602
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Segato TP, Bhakta SA, Gordon M, Carrilho E, Willis PA, Jiao H, Garcia CD. Microfab-less Microfluidic Capillary Electrophoresis Devices. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2013; 5:1652-1657. [PMID: 23585815 PMCID: PMC3622270 DOI: 10.1039/c3ay26392d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Compared to conventional bench-top instruments, microfluidic devices possess advantageous characteristics including great portability potential, reduced analysis time (minutes), and relatively inexpensive production, putting them on the forefront of modern analytical chemistry. Fabrication of these devices, however, often involves polymeric materials with less-than-ideal surface properties, specific instrumentation, and cumbersome fabrication procedures. In order to overcome such drawbacks, a new hybrid platform is proposed. The platform is centered on the use of 5 interconnecting microfluidic components that serve as the injector or reservoirs. These plastic units are interconnected using standard capillary tubing, enabling in-channel detection by a wide variety of standard techniques, including capacitively-coupled contactless conductivity detection (C4D). Due to the minimum impact on the separation efficiency, the plastic microfluidic components used for the experiments discussed herein were fabricated using an inexpensive engraving tool and standard Plexiglas. The presented approach (named 52-platform) offers a previously unseen versatility: enabling the assembly of the platform within minutes using capillary tubing that differs in length, diameter, or material. The advantages of the proposed design are demonstrated by performing the analysis of inorganic cations by capillary electrophoresis on soil samples from the Atacama Desert.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thiago P. Segato
- Instituto de Quimica de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | - Samir A. Bhakta
- Department of Chemistry, UT San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Matthew Gordon
- Department of Chemistry, UT San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Emanuel Carrilho
- Instituto de Quimica de São Carlos, Universidade de São Paulo, São Carlos, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Hong Jiao
- HJ Science & Technology, Santa Clara, CA, USA
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25
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Recent advances in microchip electrophoresis for amino acid analysis. Anal Bioanal Chem 2013; 405:7907-18. [DOI: 10.1007/s00216-013-6830-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Revised: 01/25/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Jensen EC, Stockton AM, Chiesl TN, Kim J, Bera A, Mathies RA. Digitally programmable microfluidic automaton for multiscale combinatorial mixing and sample processing. LAB ON A CHIP 2013; 13:288-96. [PMID: 23172232 PMCID: PMC3568922 DOI: 10.1039/c2lc40861a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
A digitally programmable microfluidic Automaton consisting of a 2-dimensional array of pneumatically actuated microvalves is programmed to perform new multiscale mixing and sample processing operations. Large (μL-scale) volume processing operations are enabled by precise metering of multiple reagents within individual nL-scale valves followed by serial repetitive transfer to programmed locations in the array. A novel process exploiting new combining valve concepts is developed for continuous rapid and complete mixing of reagents in less than 800 ms. Mixing, transfer, storage, and rinsing operations are implemented combinatorially to achieve complex assay automation protocols. The practical utility of this technology is demonstrated by performing automated serial dilution for quantitative analysis as well as the first demonstration of on-chip fluorescent derivatization of biomarker targets (carboxylic acids) for microchip capillary electrophoresis on the Mars Organic Analyzer. A language is developed to describe how unit operations are combined to form a microfluidic program. Finally, this technology is used to develop a novel microfluidic 6-sample processor for combinatorial mixing of large sets (>2(6) unique combinations) of reagents. The digitally programmable microfluidic Automaton is a versatile programmable sample processor for a wide range of process volumes, for multiple samples, and for different types of analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik C. Jensen
- Biophysics Graduate Group, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Thomas N. Chiesl
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Jungkyu Kim
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | | | - Richard A. Mathies
- Biophysics Graduate Group, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California, Berkeley, CA, USA
- ; Fax: +1 (510) 642-3599; Tel: +1 (510) 642-4192
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27
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Kovarik ML, Ornoff DM, Melvin AT, Dobes NC, Wang Y, Dickinson AJ, Gach PC, Shah PK, Allbritton NL. Micro total analysis systems: fundamental advances and applications in the laboratory, clinic, and field. Anal Chem 2013; 85:451-72. [PMID: 23140554 PMCID: PMC3546124 DOI: 10.1021/ac3031543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michelle L. Kovarik
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Douglas M. Ornoff
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Adam T. Melvin
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Nicholas C. Dobes
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Yuli Wang
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Alexandra J. Dickinson
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Philip C. Gach
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
| | - Pavak K. Shah
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
| | - Nancy L. Allbritton
- Department of Chemistry, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
- Department of Pharmacology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599 and North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695
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28
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da Costa ET, Neves CA, Hotta GM, Vidal DTR, Barros MF, Ayon AA, Garcia CD, do Lago CL. Unmanned platform for long-range remote analysis of volatile compounds in air samples. Electrophoresis 2012; 33:2650-9. [PMID: 22965708 DOI: 10.1002/elps.201200273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
This paper describes a long-range remotely controlled CE system built on an all-terrain vehicle. A four-stroke engine and a set of 12-V batteries were used to provide power to a series of subsystems that include drivers, communication, computers, and a capillary electrophoresis module. This dedicated instrument allows air sampling using a polypropylene porous tube, coupled to a flow system that transports the sample to the inlet of a fused-silica capillary. A hybrid approach was used for the construction of the analytical subsystem combining a conventional fused-silica capillary (used for separation) and a laser machined microfluidic block, made of PMMA. A solid-state cooling approach was also integrated in the CE module to enable controlling the temperature and therefore increasing the useful range of the robot. Although ultimately intended for detection of chemical warfare agents, the proposed system was used to analyze a series of volatile organic acids. As such, the system allowed the separation and detection of formic, acetic, and propionic acids with signal-to-noise ratios of 414, 150, and 115, respectively, after sampling by only 30 s and performing an electrokinetic injection during 2.0 s at 1.0 kV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric T da Costa
- Departamento de Química Fundamental-Instituto de Química-Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo - SP, Brazil
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29
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Cable ML, Stockton AM, Mora MF, Willis PA. Low-Temperature Microchip Nonaqueous Capillary Electrophoresis of Aliphatic Primary Amines: Applications to Titan Chemistry. Anal Chem 2012; 85:1124-31. [DOI: 10.1021/ac3030202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Morgan L. Cable
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology,
Pasadena, California 91109, United States
| | - Amanda M. Stockton
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology,
Pasadena, California 91109, United States
| | - Maria F. Mora
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology,
Pasadena, California 91109, United States
| | - Peter A. Willis
- NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology,
Pasadena, California 91109, United States
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30
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Mora MF, Stockton AM, Willis PA. Analysis of thiols by microchip capillary electrophoresis for in situ planetary investigations. Electrophoresis 2012; 34:309-16. [PMID: 23161601 DOI: 10.1002/elps.201200379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2012] [Revised: 08/30/2012] [Accepted: 09/01/2012] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
The detection of thiols on extraterrestrial bodies could provide evidence for life, as well as a host of potential prebiological or abiological processes. Here, we report a novel protocol to analyze organic thiols by microchip CE with LIF detection. Thiols were labeled with Pacific Blue C5 maleimide and analyzed by MEKC. The separation buffer consisted of 15 mM tetraborate pH 9.2 and 25 mM SDS. The optimized method provided LODs ranging from 1.4 to 15 nM. The method was validated using samples collected from geothermal pools at Hot Creek Gorge, California, which were found to contain 2-propanethiol and 1-butanethiol in the nanomolar concentration range. These samples serve as chemical analogues to material potentially present in the reducing environment of primitive Earth and also at sulfurous regions of Mars. Hence, the protocol developed here enables highly sensitive thiol analysis in samples with complexity comparable to that expected in astrobiologically relevant extraterrestrial settings. This new protocol could be readily added to the existing suite of microfluidic chemical analyses developed for in situ planetary exploration; all that is required is the incorporation of two new reagents to the payload of an existing instrument concept.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria F Mora
- Jet Propulsion Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
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31
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Mora MF, Stockton AM, Willis PA. Microchip capillary electrophoresis instrumentation for in situ analysis in the search for extraterrestrial life. Electrophoresis 2012; 33:2624-38. [DOI: 10.1002/elps.201200102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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32
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Burton AS, Stern JC, Elsila JE, Glavin DP, Dworkin JP. Understanding prebiotic chemistry through the analysis of extraterrestrial amino acids and nucleobases in meteorites. Chem Soc Rev 2012; 41:5459-72. [PMID: 22706603 DOI: 10.1039/c2cs35109a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The discoveries of amino acids of extraterrestrial origin in many meteorites over the last 50 years have revolutionized the Astrobiology field. A variety of non-terrestrial amino acids similar to those found in life on Earth have been detected in meteorites. A few amino acids have even been found with chiral excesses, suggesting that meteorites could have contributed to the origin of homochirality in life on Earth. In addition to amino acids, which have been productively studied for years, sugar-like molecules, activated phosphates, and nucleobases have also been determined to be indigenous to numerous meteorites. Because these molecules are essential for life as we know it, and meteorites have been delivering them to the Earth since accretion, it is plausible that the origin(s) of life on Earth were aided by extraterrestrially-synthesized molecules. Understanding the origins of life on Earth guides our search for life elsewhere, helping to answer the question of whether biology is unique to Earth. This tutorial review focuses on meteoritic amino acids and nucleobases, exploring modern analytical methods and possible formation mechanisms. We will also discuss the unique window that meteorites provide into the chemistry that preceded life on Earth, a chemical record we do not have access to on Earth due to geologic recycling of rocks and the pervasiveness of biology across the planet. Finally, we will address the future of meteorite research, including asteroid sample return missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron S Burton
- Oak Ridge Associated Universities, Greenbelt, MD 20771, USA.
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33
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Chen Q, Wu J, Zhang Y, Lin JM. Qualitative and Quantitative Analysis of Tumor Cell Metabolism via Stable Isotope Labeling Assisted Microfluidic Chip Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2012; 84:1695-701. [DOI: 10.1021/ac300003k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Qiushui Chen
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Analytical
Methods and Instrumentation,
Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jing Wu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Analytical
Methods and Instrumentation,
Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yandong Zhang
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Analytical
Methods and Instrumentation,
Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jin-Ming Lin
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Analytical
Methods and Instrumentation,
Department of Chemistry, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, People’s Republic of China
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