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Wells T, Schmidt H, Hawkins A. Nano/microfluidic device for high-throughput passive trapping of nanoparticles. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2023; 17:064101. [PMID: 37928800 PMCID: PMC10622172 DOI: 10.1063/5.0176323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
We present a design and a fabrication method for devices designed for rapid collection of nanoparticles in a fluid. The design uses nanofluidic channels as a passive size-based barrier trap to isolate particles near a central point in the channel, which is also covered by a thin membrane. Particles that enter the collection region are trapped with 100% efficiency within a 6-12 μ m radius from a central point. Flow rates for particle-free fluid range from 1.88 to 3.69 nl/s for the pressure and geometries tested. Particle trapping tests show that high trapped particle counts significantly impact flow rates. For suspensions as dilute as 30-300 aM (20-200 particles/μ l), 8-80 particles are captured within 500 s.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanner Wells
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - Holger Schmidt
- School of Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - Aaron Hawkins
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
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2
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Hamblin M, Wright J, Schmidt H, Hawkins AR. Comparison of Illumination Methods for Flow-Through Optofluidic Biosensors. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:723. [PMID: 37420956 DOI: 10.3390/mi14040723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Optofluidic biosensors have become an important medical diagnostic tool because they allow for rapid, high-sensitivity testing of small samples compared to standard lab testing. For these devices, the practicality of use in a medical setting depends heavily on both the sensitivity of the device and the ease of alignment of passive chips to a light source. This paper uses a model previously validated by comparison to physical devices to compare alignment, power loss, and signal quality for windowed, laser line, and laser spot methods of top-down illumination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Hamblin
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 450 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Joel Wright
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 450 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Holger Schmidt
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Aaron R Hawkins
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 450 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA
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Yin B, Wan X, Sohan ASMMF, Lin X. Microfluidics-Based POCT for SARS-CoV-2 Diagnostics. MICROMACHINES 2022; 13:mi13081238. [PMID: 36014162 PMCID: PMC9413395 DOI: 10.3390/mi13081238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
A microfluidic chip is a tiny reactor that can confine and flow a specific amount of fluid into channels of tens to thousands of microns as needed and can precisely control fluid flow, pressure, temperature, etc. Point-of-care testing (POCT) requires small equipment, has short testing cycles, and controls the process, allowing single or multiple laboratory facilities to simultaneously analyze biological samples and diagnose infectious diseases. In general, rapid detection and stage assessment of viral epidemics are essential to overcome pandemic situations and diagnose promptly. Therefore, combining microfluidic devices with POCT improves detection efficiency and convenience for viral disease SARS-CoV-2. At the same time, the POCT of microfluidic chips increases user accessibility, improves accuracy and sensitivity, shortens detection time, etc., which are beneficial in detecting SARS-CoV-2. This review shares recent advances in POCT-based testing for COVID-19 and how it is better suited to help diagnose in response to the ongoing pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Binfeng Yin
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (X.W.); (A.S.M.M.F.S.)
- Correspondence: (B.Y.); (X.L.); Tel.: +86-189-1118-5500 (B.Y.); +86-182-2266-7931 (X.L.)
| | - Xinhua Wan
- School of Mechanical Engineering, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou 225127, China; (X.W.); (A.S.M.M.F.S.)
| | | | - Xiaodong Lin
- College of Food and Biological Engineering, Zhengzhou University of Light Industry, Zhengzhou 450001, China
- Correspondence: (B.Y.); (X.L.); Tel.: +86-189-1118-5500 (B.Y.); +86-182-2266-7931 (X.L.)
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Dawson H, Elias J, Etienne P, Calas-Etienne S. The Rise of the OM-LoC: Opto-Microfluidic Enabled Lab-on-Chip. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:1467. [PMID: 34945317 PMCID: PMC8706692 DOI: 10.3390/mi12121467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The integration of optical circuits with microfluidic lab-on-chip (LoC) devices has resulted in a new era of potential in terms of both sample manipulation and detection at the micro-scale. On-chip optical components increase both control and analytical capabilities while reducing reliance on expensive laboratory photonic equipment that has limited microfluidic development. Notably, in-situ LoC devices for bio-chemical applications such as diagnostics and environmental monitoring could provide great value as low-cost, portable and highly sensitive systems. Multiple challenges remain however due to the complexity involved with combining photonics with micro-fabricated systems. Here, we aim to highlight the progress that optical on-chip systems have made in recent years regarding the main LoC applications: (1) sample manipulation and (2) detection. At the same time, we aim to address the constraints that limit industrial scaling of this technology. Through evaluating various fabrication methods, material choices and novel approaches of optic and fluidic integration, we aim to illustrate how optic-enabled LoC approaches are providing new possibilities for both sample analysis and manipulation.
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Wright JG, Amin MN, Schmidt H, Hawkins AR. Performance Comparison of Flow-Through Optofluidic Biosensor Designs. BIOSENSORS 2021; 11:226. [PMID: 34356697 PMCID: PMC8301811 DOI: 10.3390/bios11070226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2021] [Revised: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Optofluidic flow-through biosensors are being developed for single particle detection, particularly as a tool for pathogen diagnosis. The sensitivity of the biosensor chip depends on design parameters, illumination format (side vs. top), and flow configuration (parabolic, two- and three-dimensional hydrodynamic focused (2DHF and 3DHF)). We study the signal differences between various combinations of these design aspects. Our model is validated against a sample of physical devices. We find that side-illumination with 3DHF produces the strongest and consistent signal, but parabolic flow devices process a sample volume more quickly. Practical matters of optical alignment are also discussed, which may affect design choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel G. Wright
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 450 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
| | - Md Nafiz Amin
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; (M.N.A.); (H.S.)
| | - Holger Schmidt
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; (M.N.A.); (H.S.)
| | - Aaron R. Hawkins
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 450 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA;
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Meena GG, Stambaugh AM, Ganjalizadeh V, Stott MA, Hawkins AR, Schmidt H. Ultrasensitive detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and antigen using single-molecule optofluidic chip. APL PHOTONICS 2021; 6:066101. [PMID: 35693725 PMCID: PMC9186413 DOI: 10.1063/5.0049735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Nucleic acids and proteins are the two most important target types used in molecular diagnostics. In many instances, simultaneous sensitive and accurate detection of both biomarkers from the same sample would be desirable, but standard detection methods are highly optimized for one type and not cross-compatible. Here, we report the simultaneous multiplexed detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNAs and antigens with single molecule sensitivity. Both analytes are isolated and labeled using a single bead-based solid-phase extraction protocol, followed by fluorescence detection on a multi-channel optofluidic waveguide chip. Direct amplification-free detection of both biomarkers from nasopharyngeal swab samples is demonstrated with single molecule detection sensitivity, opening the door for ultrasensitive dual-target analysis in infectious disease diagnosis, oncology, and other applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. G. Meena
- School of Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - A. M. Stambaugh
- School of Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - V. Ganjalizadeh
- School of Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
| | - M. A. Stott
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - A. R. Hawkins
- Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah 84602, USA
| | - H. Schmidt
- School of Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, California 95064, USA
- Author to whom correspondence should be addressed:. Telephone: 831-459-1482
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Wright JG, Amin MN, Meena GG, Schmidt H, Hawkins AR. Optofluidic Flow-Through Biosensor Sensitivity - Model and Experiment. JOURNAL OF LIGHTWAVE TECHNOLOGY : A JOINT IEEE/OSA PUBLICATION 2021; 39:3330-3340. [PMID: 34177078 PMCID: PMC8224397 DOI: 10.1109/jlt.2021.3061872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We present a model and simulation for predicting the detected signal of a fluorescence-based optical biosensor built from optofluidic waveguides. Typical applications include flow experiments to determine pathogen concentrations in a biological sample after tagging relevant DNA or RNA sequences. An overview of the biosensor geometry and fabrication processes is presented. The basis for the predictive model is also outlined. The model is then compared to experimental results for three different biosensor designs. The model is shown to have similar signal statistics as physical tests, illustrating utility as a pre-fabrication design tool and as a predictor of detection sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel G Wright
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Md Nafiz Amin
- School of Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Gopikrishnan G Meena
- School of Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Holger Schmidt
- School of Engineering, University of California Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Aaron R Hawkins
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
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Sano T, Black J, Mitchell S, Zhang H, Schmidt H. Pneumatically tunable optofluidic DFB dye laser using corrugated sidewalls. OPTICS LETTERS 2020; 45:5978-5981. [PMID: 33137048 DOI: 10.1364/ol.404303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 09/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Polydimethylsiloxane-based optofluidics provides a powerful platform for a complete analytical lab-on-chip. Here, we report on a novel on-chip laser source that can be integrated with sample preparation and analysis functions. A corrugated sidewall structure is integrated into a microfluidic channel to form a distributed feedback (DFB) laser using rhodamine 6G dissolved in an ethylene glycol and water solution. Lasing is demonstrated with a threshold pump power of 87.9 µW, corresponding to a pump intensity of 52.7mW/cm2. Laser threshold and output power are optimized with respect to rhodamine 6G concentration and core index and found to be in good agreement with a rate equation model. Additionally, the laser can be switched on and off mechanically using a pneumatic cell inducing positive pressure on the grating.
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Berkenbrock JA, Grecco-Machado R, Achenbach S. Microfluidic devices for the detection of viruses: aspects of emergency fabrication during the COVID-19 pandemic and other outbreaks. Proc Math Phys Eng Sci 2020; 476:20200398. [PMID: 33363440 PMCID: PMC7735301 DOI: 10.1098/rspa.2020.0398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Extensive testing of populations against COVID-19 has been suggested as a game-changer quest to control the spread of this contagious disease and to avoid further disruption in our social, healthcare and economical systems. Nonetheless, testing millions of people for a new virus brings about quite a few challenges. The development of effective tests for the new coronavirus has become a worldwide task that relies on recent discoveries and lessons learned from past outbreaks. In this work, we review the most recent publications on microfluidics devices for the detection of viruses. The topics of discussion include different detection approaches, methods of signalling and fabrication techniques. Besides the miniaturization of traditional benchtop detection assays, approaches such as electrochemical analyses, field-effect transistors and resistive pulse sensors are considered. For emergency fabrication of quick test kits, the local capabilities must be evaluated, and the joint work of universities, industries, and governments seems to be an unequivocal necessity.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Alvim Berkenbrock
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Rafaela Grecco-Machado
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
| | - Sven Achenbach
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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Hamilton ES, Ganjalizadeh V, Wright JG, Schmidt H, Hawkins AR. 3D Hydrodynamic Focusing in Microscale Optofluidic Channels Formed with a Single Sacrificial Layer. MICROMACHINES 2020; 11:E349. [PMID: 32230783 PMCID: PMC7230747 DOI: 10.3390/mi11040349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Optofluidic devices are capable of detecting single molecules, but greater sensitivity and specificity is desired through hydrodynamic focusing (HDF). Three-dimensional (3D) hydrodynamic focusing was implemented in 10-μm scale microchannel cross-sections made with a single sacrificial layer. HDF is achieved using buffer fluid to sheath the sample fluid, requiring four fluid ports to operate by pressure driven flow. A low-pressure chamber, or pit, formed by etching into a substrate, enables volumetric flow ratio-induced focusing at a low flow velocity. The single layer design simplifies surface micromachining and improves device yield by 1.56 times over previous work. The focusing design was integrated with optical waveguides and used in order to analyze fluorescent signals from beads in fluid flow. The implementation of the focusing scheme was found to narrow the distribution of bead velocity and fluorescent signal, giving rise to 33% more consistent signal. Reservoir effects were observed at low operational vacuum pressures and a balance between optofluidic signal variance and intensity was achieved. The implementation of the design in optofluidic sensors will enable higher detection sensitivity and sample specificity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik S. Hamilton
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA; (J.G.W.); (A.R.H.)
| | - Vahid Ganjalizadeh
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; (V.G.); (H.S.)
| | - Joel G. Wright
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA; (J.G.W.); (A.R.H.)
| | - Holger Schmidt
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA; (V.G.); (H.S.)
| | - Aaron R. Hawkins
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA; (J.G.W.); (A.R.H.)
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Hamilton ES, Ganjalizadeh V, Wright JG, Pitt WG, Schmidt H, Hawkins AR. 3D hydrodynamic focusing in microscale channels formed with two photoresist layers. MICROFLUIDICS AND NANOFLUIDICS 2019; 23:122. [PMID: 35664662 PMCID: PMC9162057 DOI: 10.1007/s10404-019-2293-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
3D hydrodynamic focusing was implemented with channel cross-section dimensions smaller than 10 μm. Microchannels were formed using sacrificial etching of two photoresist layers on a silicon wafer. The photoresist forms a plus-shaped prismatic focusing fluid junction which was coated with plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor-deposited oxide. Buffer fluid carried to the focusing junction envelopes an intersecting sample fluid, resulting in 3D focusing of the sample stream. The design requires four fluid ports and operates across a wide range of fluid velocities through pressure-driven flow. The focusing design was integrated with optical waveguides to interrogate fluorescing particles and confirm 3D focusing. Particle diffusion away from a focused stream was characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik S. Hamilton
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 450 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Vahid Ganjalizadeh
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Joel G. Wright
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 450 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - William G. Pitt
- Chemical Engineering, Brigham Young University, 330 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Holger Schmidt
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of California, Santa Cruz, 1156 High Street, Santa Cruz, CA 95064, USA
| | - Aaron R. Hawkins
- Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, 450 Engineering Building, Provo, UT 84602, USA
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