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Chen JL, Njoku DI, Tang C, Gao Y, Chen J, Peng YK, Sun H, Mao G, Pan M, Tam NFY. Advances in Microfluidic Paper-Based Analytical Devices (µPADs): Design, Fabrication, and Applications. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2400155. [PMID: 38781604 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidic Paper-based Analytical Devices (µPADs) have emerged as a new class of microfluidic systems, offering numerous advantages over traditional microfluidic chips. These advantages include simplicity, cost-effectiveness, stability, storability, disposability, and portability. As a result, various designs for different types of assays are developed and investigated. In recent years, µPADs are combined with conventional detection methods to enable rapid on-site detection, providing results comparable to expensive and sophisticated large-scale testing methods that require more time and skilled personnel. The application of µPAD techniques is extensive in environmental quality control/analysis, clinical diagnosis, and food safety testing, paving the way for on-site real-time diagnosis as a promising future development. This review focuses on the recent research advancements in the design, fabrication, material selection, and detection methods of µPADs. It provides a comprehensive understanding of their principles of operation, applications, and future development prospects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Lin Chen
- Department of Applied Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Good Shepherd Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
| | - Demian Ifeanyi Njoku
- Department of Applied Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Good Shepherd Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Cui Tang
- Department of Applied Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Good Shepherd Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Yaru Gao
- Department of Applied Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Good Shepherd Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Jiayu Chen
- Department of Applied Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Good Shepherd Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Yung-Kang Peng
- Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Hongyan Sun
- Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Guozhu Mao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, P. R. China
| | - Min Pan
- Department of Applied Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Good Shepherd Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
| | - Nora Fung-Yee Tam
- Department of Applied Science, School of Science and Technology, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Good Shepherd Street, Ho Man Tin, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
- Shenzhen Research Institute of City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, 518057, P. R. China
- Department of Chemistry, City University of Hong Kong, Tat Chee Avenue, Kowloon, Hong Kong SAR, P. R. China
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Ebrahimi G, Pakchin PS, Mota A, Omidian H, Omidi Y. Electrochemical microfluidic paper-based analytical devices for cancer biomarker detection: From 2D to 3D sensing systems. Talanta 2023; 257:124370. [PMID: 36858013 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.124370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidic paper-based analytical devices (μPADs) offer a unique possibility for a cost-effective portable and rapid detection of a wide range of small molecules and macromolecules and even microorganisms. In this line, electrochemical detection methods are key techniques for the qualitative analysis of different types of ligands. The electrochemical sensing μPADs have been devised for the rapid, accurate, and quantitative detection of oncomarkers through two-/three-dimensional (2D/3D) approaches. The 2D μPADs were first developed and then transformed into 3D systems via folding and/or twisting of paper. The microfluidic channels and connections were created within the layers of paper. Based on the fabrication methods, 3D μPADs can be classified into origami and stacking devices. Various fabrication methods and materials have been used to create hydrophilic channels in μPADs, among which the wax printing technique is the most common method in fabricating μPADs. In this review, we discuss the fabrication and design strategies of μPADs, elaborate on their detection modes, and highlight their applications in affinity-based electrochemical μPADs methods for the detection of oncomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghasem Ebrahimi
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran; Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parvin Samadi Pakchin
- Research Center for Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology, Biomedicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Mota
- Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hossein Omidian
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA
| | - Yadollah Omidi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Nova Southeastern University, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33328, USA.
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Wilson DJ, Martín-Martínez FJ, Deravi LF. Wearable Light Sensors Based on Unique Features of a Natural Biochrome. ACS Sens 2022; 7:523-533. [PMID: 35138085 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.1c02342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Overexposure to complete solar radiation (combined ultraviolet, visible, and infrared) is correlated with several harmful biological consequences including hyperpigmentation, skin cancer, eye damage, and immune suppression. With limited effective therapeutic options available for these conditions, significant efforts have been directed toward promoting preventative habits. Recently, wearable solar radiometers have emerged as practical tools for managing personal exposure to sunlight. However, designing simple and inexpensive sensors that can measure energy across multiple spectral regions without incorporating electronic components remains challenging, largely due to inherent spectral limitations of photoresponsive indicators. In this work, we report the design, fabrication, and characterization of wearable radiation sensors that leverage an unexpected feature of a natural biochrome, xanthommatin-its innate sensitivity to both ultraviolet and visible through near-infrared radiation. We found that xanthommatin-based sensors undergo a visible shift from yellow to red in the presence of complete sunlight. This color change is driven by intrinsic photoreduction of the molecule, which we investigated using computational modeling and supplemented by radiation-driven formation of complementary reducing agents. These sensors are responsive to dermatologically relevant doses of erythemally weighted radiation, as well as cumulative doses of high-energy ultraviolet radiation used for germicidal sterilization. We incorporated these miniature sensors into pressure-activated microfluidic systems to illustrate on-demand activation of a wearable and mountable form factor. When taken together, our findings encompass an important advancement toward accessible, quantitative measurements of UVC and complete solar radiation for a variety of use cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Wilson
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
- Kostas Research Institute for Homeland Security, Northeastern University, 141 South Bedford Street, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803, United States
| | - Francisco J. Martín-Martínez
- Department of Chemistry, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, Wales, U.K
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02139, United States
| | - Leila F. Deravi
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, United States
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Potter J, Brisk P, Grover WH. Rapid development and optimization of paper microfluidic designs using software automation. Anal Chim Acta 2021; 1184:338985. [PMID: 34625247 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2021.338985] [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: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Paper microfluidic or lateral flow devices have found many applications, especially in medical diagnostics. Their low cost and ease of use makes them particularly valuable in resource-limited and point-of-care applications. However, the process of developing new paper microfluidic devices is slowed by the need to find optimal values for their various design parameters, which determine the overall size and fluid volume requirements of the device. Often, researchers must design and test several different versions of a device to find a combination of parameters that functions as intended. To accelerate the development of new paper microfluidics, we developed a software framework that automatically designs custom paper microfluidic devices for a given application. Once the user specifies the desired device parameters, the software generates printable image files of the resulting devices, ready to output to a conventional wax ink color printer and test. As a proof-of-concept, we used our software to automatically design 51 different paper microfluidic devices we needed to create a functional lateral flow assay that detects protein and glucose in urine. These designs took only a few seconds to generate and were used in 120 lab experiments we performed in 16 h in the lab. Thus, with the help of our software framework, we went from an idea to a functional device in just two work days. By accelerating device development and enabling researchers without microfluidics experience to create custom devices, our software can help spread paper microfluidic technology to important new application areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua Potter
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Philip Brisk
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - William H Grover
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA.
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Modha S, Castro C, Tsutsui H. Recent developments in flow modeling and fluid control for paper-based microfluidic biosensors. Biosens Bioelectron 2021; 178:113026. [PMID: 33545552 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2021.113026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2020] [Revised: 12/31/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Over the last 10 years, researchers have shown that paper is a promising substrate for affordable biosensors. The field of paper-microfluidics has evolved rapidly in that time, with simple colorimetric assays giving way to more complex electrochemical devices that can handle multiple samples at a given time. As paper devices become more complex, the ability to precisely control different fluids simultaneously becomes a challenge. Specifically, automated flow control is a necessary attribute to make paper-based devices more useable in resource-limited settings. Flow control strategies on paper are typically developed experimentally through trial-and-error, with little focus on theory. This is because flow behavior in paper is not well understood and sometimes difficult to predict precisely. Additionally, popular theoretical models are too simplistic, making them unsuitable for complex device designs and application conditions. A better understanding of flow theory would allow devices conceived straight from theoretical models. This could save time and resources by reducing experimental work. In this review, we provide an overview of different theoretical models used to characterize imbibition in paper substrates and document the latest flow control strategies that have been applied to automated fluid control on paper. Additionally, we look at current efforts to commercialize paper-based devices along with challenges facing this industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sidharth Modha
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA
| | - Carlos Castro
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, Pomona, CA, 91768, USA
| | - Hideaki Tsutsui
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA; Stem Cell Center, University of California, Riverside, Riverside, CA, 92521, USA.
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Catalan-Carrio R, Akyazi T, Basabe-Desmonts L, Benito-Lopez F. Predicting Dimensions in Microfluidic Paper Based Analytical Devices. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2020; 21:E101. [PMID: 33375225 PMCID: PMC7794781 DOI: 10.3390/s21010101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The main problem for the expansion of the use of microfluidic paper-based analytical devices and, thus, their mass production is their inherent lack of fluid flow control due to its uncontrolled fabrication protocols. To address this issue, the first step is the generation of uniform and reliable microfluidic channels. The most common paper microfluidic fabrication method is wax printing, which consists of two parts, printing and heating, where heating is a critical step for the fabrication of reproducible device dimensions. In order to bring paper-based devices to success, it is essential to optimize the fabrication process in order to always get a reproducible device. Therefore, the optimization of the heating process and the analysis of the parameters that could affect the final dimensions of the device, such as its shape, the width of the wax barrier and the internal area of the device, were performed. Moreover, we present a method to predict reproducible devices with controlled working areas in a simple manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Catalan-Carrio
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, Analytical Microsystems & Materials for Lab-on-a-Chip (AMMa-LOAC) Group, Analytical Chemistry Department, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (R.C.-C.); (T.A.)
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, BIOMICs Microfluidics Group, Lascaray Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
| | - Tugce Akyazi
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, Analytical Microsystems & Materials for Lab-on-a-Chip (AMMa-LOAC) Group, Analytical Chemistry Department, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (R.C.-C.); (T.A.)
| | - Lourdes Basabe-Desmonts
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, BIOMICs Microfluidics Group, Lascaray Research Center, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- Basque Foundation for Science, IKERBASQUE, 48013 Bilbao, Spain
- Bioaraba Health Research Institute, Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- BCMaterials, Basque Centre for Materials, Micro and Nanodevices, UPV/EHU Science Park, 48940 Leioa, Spain
| | - Fernando Benito-Lopez
- Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, Analytical Microsystems & Materials for Lab-on-a-Chip (AMMa-LOAC) Group, Analytical Chemistry Department, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain; (R.C.-C.); (T.A.)
- Bioaraba Health Research Institute, Microfluidics Cluster UPV/EHU, 01006 Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
- BCMaterials, Basque Centre for Materials, Micro and Nanodevices, UPV/EHU Science Park, 48940 Leioa, Spain
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Parker RW, Wilson DJ, Mace CR. Open software platform for automated analysis of paper-based microfluidic devices. Sci Rep 2020; 10:11284. [PMID: 32647203 PMCID: PMC7347888 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67639-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Development of paper-based microfluidic devices that perform colorimetric measurements requires quantitative image analysis. Because the design geometries of paper-based microfluidic devices are not standardized, conventional methods for performing batch measurements of regularly spaced areas of signal intensity, such as those for well plates, cannot be used to quantify signal from most of these devices. To streamline the device development process, we have developed an open-source program called ColorScan that can automatically recognize and measure signal-containing zones from images of devices, regardless of output zone geometry or spatial arrangement. This program, which measures color intensity with the same accuracy as standard manual approaches, can rapidly process scanned device images, simultaneously measure identified output zones, and effectively manage measurement results to eliminate requirements for time-consuming and user-dependent image processing procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rayleigh W Parker
- Department of Chemistry, Tufts University, 62 Talbot Avenue, Medford, MA, 021551, USA
| | - Daniel J Wilson
- Department of Chemistry, Tufts University, 62 Talbot Avenue, Medford, MA, 021551, USA
| | - Charles R Mace
- Department of Chemistry, Tufts University, 62 Talbot Avenue, Medford, MA, 021551, USA.
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Abstract
Microfluidic devices developed over the past decade feature greater intricacy, increased performance requirements, new materials, and innovative fabrication methods. Consequentially, new algorithmic and design approaches have been developed to introduce optimization and computer-aided design to microfluidic circuits: from conceptualization to specification, synthesis, realization, and refinement. The field includes the development of new description languages, optimization methods, benchmarks, and integrated design tools. Here, recent advancements are reviewed in the computer-aided design of flow-, droplet-, and paper-based microfluidics. A case study of the design of resistive microfluidic networks is discussed in detail. The review concludes with perspectives on the future of computer-aided microfluidics design, including the introduction of cloud computing, machine learning, new ideation processes, and hybrid optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elishai Ezra Tsur
- Neuro-Biomorphic Engineering Lab (NBEL), Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, The Open University of Israel, Ra'anana 4353701, Israel;
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3DμF - Interactive Design Environment for Continuous Flow Microfluidic Devices. Sci Rep 2019; 9:9166. [PMID: 31235804 PMCID: PMC6591506 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-45623-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The design of microfluidic Lab on a Chip (LoC) systems is an onerous task requiring specialized skills in fluid dynamics, mechanical design drafting, and manufacturing. Engineers face significant challenges during the labor-intensive process of designing microfluidic devices, with very few specialized tools that help automate the process. Typical design iterations require the engineer to research the architecture, manually draft the device layout, optimize for manufacturing processes, and manually calculate and program the valve sequences that operate the microfluidic device. The problem compounds when engineers not only have to test the functionality of the chip but are also expected to optimize them for the robust execution of biological assays. In this paper, we present an interactive tool for designing continuous flow microfluidic devices. 3DμF is the first completely open source interactive microfluidic system designer that readily supports state of the art design automation algorithms. Through various case studies, we show 3DμF can be used to reproduce designs from literature, provide metrics for evaluating microfluidic design complexity and showcase how 3DμF is a platform for integrating a wide assortment of engineering techniques used in the design of microfluidic devices as a part of the standard design workflow.
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Recent Advancement in the Surface-Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy-Based Biosensors for Infectious Disease Diagnosis. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/app9071448] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Diagnosis is the key component in disease elimination to improve global health. However, there is a tremendous need for diagnostic innovation for neglected tropical diseases that largely consist of mosquito-borne infections and bacterial infections. Early diagnosis of these infectious diseases is critical but challenging because the biomarkers are present at low concentrations, demanding bioanalytical techniques that can deliver high sensitivity with ensured specificity. Owing to the plasmonic nanomaterials-enabled high detection sensitivities, even up to single molecules, surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) has gained attention as an optical analytical tool for early disease biomarker detection. In this mini-review, we highlight the SERS-based assay development tailored to detect key types of biomarkers for mosquito-borne and bacterial infections. We discuss in detail the variations of SERS-based techniques that have developed to afford qualitative and quantitative disease biomarker detection in a more accurate, affordable, and field-transferable manner. Current and emerging challenges in the advancement of SERS-based technologies from the proof-of-concept phase to the point-of-care phase are also briefly discussed.
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Scalable Methods for Device Patterning as an Outstanding Challenge in Translating Paper-Based Microfluidics from the Academic Benchtop to the Point-of-Care. JOURNAL OF ANALYSIS AND TESTING 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s41664-019-00093-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Wang Z. Detection and Automation Technologies for the Mass Production of Droplet Biomicrofluidics. IEEE Rev Biomed Eng 2018; 11:260-274. [PMID: 29993645 DOI: 10.1109/rbme.2018.2826984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Droplet microfluidics utilizes two immiscible flows to generate small droplets with the diameter of a few to a few hundred micrometers. These droplets are promising tools for biomedical engineering because of the high throughput and the ease to finely tune the microenvironments. In addition to the great success of droplet biomicrofluidics in the proof-of-concept biosensing, regenerative medicine, and drug delivery, few droplet biomicrofluidic devices have a transformative impact on the industrial and clinical applications. The main issues are the low volume throughput and the lack of proper methods for quality control and automation. This review covers the methodologies for the mass production, detection, and automation of droplet generators. Recent advances in droplet mass production using parallelized devices and modified junction structures are discussed. Detection techniques, including optical and electrical detection methods, are comprehensively reviewed in detail. Newly emerged droplet closed-loop control systems are surveyed to highlight the progress in system integration and automation. Overall, with the advances in parallel droplet generation, highly sensitive detection, and robust closed-loop regulation, it is anticipated that the productivity and reliability of droplet biomicrofluidics will be significantly improved to meet the industrial and clinical needs.
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