1
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Lomeli G, Herr AE. Reducing Cathodic Drift during Isoelectric Focusing Using Microscale Immobilized pH Gradient Gels. Anal Chem 2024; 96:8648-8656. [PMID: 38716690 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c00788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidic analytical tools play an important role in miniaturizing targeted proteomic assays for improved detection sensitivity, throughput, and automation. Microfluidic isoelectric focusing (IEF) can resolve proteoforms in lysate from low-to-single cell numbers. However, IEF assays often use carrier ampholytes (CAs) to establish a pH gradient for protein separation, presenting limitations like pH instability in the form of cathodic drift (migration of focused proteins toward the cathode). Immobilized pH gradient (IPG) gels reduce cathodic drift by covalently immobilizing the pH buffering components to a matrix. To our knowledge, efforts to implement IPG gels at the microscale have been limited to glass microdevices. To adapt IEF using IPGs to widely used microfluidic device materials, we introduce a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based microfluidic device and compare the microscale pH gradient stability of IEF established with IPGs, CAs, and a hybrid formulation of IPG gels and CAs (mixed-bed IEF). The PDMS-based IPG microfluidic device (μIPG) resolved analytes differing by 0.1 isoelectric point within a 3.5 mm separation lane over a 20 min focusing duration. During the 20 min duration, we observed markedly different cathodic drift velocities among the three formulations: 60.1 μm/min in CA-IEF, 2.5 μm/min in IPG-IEF (∼24-fold reduction versus CA-IEF), and 1.4 μm/min in mixed-bed IEF (∼43-fold reduction versus CA-IEF). Lastly, mixed-bed IEF in a PDMS device resolved green fluorescent protein (GFP) proteoforms from GFP-expressing human breast cancer cell lysate, thus establishing stability in lysate from complex biospecimens. μIPG is a promising and stable technique for studying proteoforms from small volumes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Lomeli
- The UC Berkeley-UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
| | - Amy E Herr
- The UC Berkeley-UCSF Graduate Program in Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California 94158, United States
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2
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Shi X, He Q, Tan W, Lu Y, Zhu G. Experiment study on focusing pattern prediction of particles in asymmetric contraction-expansion array channel. Electrophoresis 2024. [PMID: 38794969 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202400042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/27/2024]
Abstract
Contraction-expansion array (CEA) microchannel is a typical structure applied on particle/cell manipulation. The prediction of the particle focusing pattern in CEA microchannel is worthwhile to be investigate deeply. Here, we demonstrated a virtual boundary method by flow field analysis and theoretical derivation. The calculating method of the virtual boundary location, related to the Reynolds number (Re) and the structure parameter RW, was proposed. Combining the approximate Poiseuille flow pattern based on the virtual boundary method with the simulation results of Dean flow, the main line pattern and the main/lateral lines pattern were predicted and validated in experiments. The transformation from the main line pattern to the main/lateral lines pattern can be facilitated by increasing Re, decreasing RW , and decreasing α. An empirical formula was derived to characterize the critical condition of the transformation. The virtual boundary method can provide a guidance for asymmetric CEA channel design and contribute to the widespread application of microfluidic particle focusing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Shi
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | | | - Wei Tan
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Yuwen Lu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin, P. R. China
| | - Guorui Zhu
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin, P. R. China
- Haihe Laboratory of Sustainable Chemical Transformations, Tianjin, P. R. China
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3
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Smith S, Sypabekova M, Kim S. Double-Sided Tape in Microfluidics: A Cost-Effective Method in Device Fabrication. BIOSENSORS 2024; 14:249. [PMID: 38785723 PMCID: PMC11118809 DOI: 10.3390/bios14050249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024]
Abstract
The demand for easy-to-use, affordable, accessible, and reliable technology is increasing in biological, chemical, and medical research. Microfluidic devices have the potential to meet these standards by offering cost-effective, highly sensitive, and highly specific diagnostic tests with rapid performance and minimal sample volumes. Traditional microfluidic device fabrication methods, such as photolithography and soft lithography, are time-consuming and require specialized equipment and expertise, making them costly and less accessible to researchers and clinicians and limiting the applicability and potential of microfluidic devices. To address this, researchers have turned to using new low-cost materials, such as double-sided tape for microfluidic device fabrication, which offers simple and low-cost processes. The innovation of low-cost and easy-to-make microfluidic devices improves the potential for more devices to be transitioned from laboratories to commercialized products found in stores, offices, and homes. This review serves as a comprehensive summary of the growing interest in and use of double-sided tape-based microfluidic devices in the last 20 years. It discusses the advantages of using double-sided tape, the fabrication techniques used to create and bond microfluidic devices, and the limitations of this approach in certain applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Seunghyun Kim
- Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Baylor University, Waco, TX 76798, USA; (S.S.); (M.S.)
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4
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Farshchi F, Saadati A, Bahavarnia F, Hasanzadeh M, Shadjou N. Identification of acetaldehyde based on plasmonic patterns of a gold nanostructure conjugated with chromophore and H 2O 2: a new platform for the rapid and low-cost analysis of carcinogenic agents by colorimetric affordable test strip (CATS). RSC Adv 2024; 14:15755-15765. [PMID: 38752162 PMCID: PMC11094588 DOI: 10.1039/d4ra02814g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Acetaldehyde, a prevalent carbonyl compound in fermented foods, poses challenges in various applications due to its reactivity. This study addresses the need for efficient acetaldehyde detection methods across biotechnological, environmental, pharmaceutical, and food sectors. Herein, we present a novel colorimetric/UV spectrophotometric approach utilizing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), particularly gold nano-flowers (AuNFs), for sensitive acetaldehyde identification. The method exhibits a notable sensitivity, detecting acetaldehyde at concentrations as low as 0.1 μM. The mechanism involves the interaction of acetaldehyde molecules with AuNFs, leading to a significant change in the absorbance spectrum, which serves as the basis for detection. Moreover, its applicability extends to human biofluids, notably urine samples. Integration with a cost-effective one-drop microfluidic colorimetric device (OD-μPCD) enables the development of an affordable test strip (CATS). This semi-analytical device, employing a multichannel OD-μPCD, facilitates real-time analysis of acetaldehyde in human samples. Our findings demonstrate the pioneering utilization of AuNPs for selective and sensitive acetaldehyde detection, promising advancements in environmental and occupational safety standards, and laying a foundation for enhanced detection and monitoring of related volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Farshchi
- Fundação Oswaldo Cruz, Instituto Oswaldo Cruz, Laboratório de Biologia Molecular e Doenças Endêmicas Avenida Brasil No 4365-Manguinhos Rio de Janeiro 21040-900 Brazil
| | - Arezoo Saadati
- Central European Institute of Technology, Brno University of Technology Brno CZ-612 00 Czech Republic
| | - Farnaz Bahavarnia
- Nutrition Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Mohammad Hasanzadeh
- Pharmaceutical Analysis Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences Tabriz Iran
| | - Nasrin Shadjou
- Department of Nanotechnology, Faculty of Chemistry, Urmia University Urmia Iran
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5
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Ke Q, Yin L, Jayan H, El-Seedi HR, Zou X, Guo Z. Ag-coated tetrapod gold nanostars (Au@AgNSs) for acetamiprid determination in tea using SERS combined with microfluidics. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2024; 16:2721-2731. [PMID: 38629244 DOI: 10.1039/d4ay00297k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2024]
Abstract
Acetamiprid is an organic and highly toxic compound. Despite being widely used as a pesticide agent on a large scale, acetamiprid poses numerous health risks to living organisms, particularly humans. Herein, a strategy for the detection of acetamiprid in tea employing surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) technology incorporated with a microfluidic chip was developed. Significantly, a seed-mediated growth approach was utilized to engineer Ag-coated tetrapod gold nanostars (core-shell Au@AgNSs) with four sharp tips. The synthesized Au@AgNSs showed an enhancement factor of 7.2 × 106. Solid works was used to figure out the two-channel microfluidic chip featuring four circular split hybrid structures, and COMSOL (Software for Multiphysics Simulation) was utilized to model the fusion effect between the substrate (Au@AgNSs) and the sample (acetamiprid). For the first time, the core-shell Au@AgNSs and acetamiprid were fused in the microfluidic channel to facilitate the detection of acetamiprid using SERS. The outcomes pointed out that the standard curve correlation coefficient between SERS intensity (876 cm-1) and the concentration of acetamiprid in tea specimens was calculated as 0.991, while the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.048 ng mL-1, which is well below the minimum limit set by the European Union (10 ng mL-1). Thus, the developed technique combining SERS and microfluidics demonstrated high potential for the rapid and efficient detection of acetamiprid in tea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Ke
- China Light Industry Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Detection & Processing, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Limei Yin
- China Light Industry Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Detection & Processing, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
- International Joint Research Laboratory of Intelligent Agriculture and Agri-products Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Heera Jayan
- China Light Industry Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Detection & Processing, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
| | - Hesham R El-Seedi
- Pharmacognosy Group, Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, BMC, Uppsala University, Box 591, SE 751 24 Uppsala, Sweden
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Xiaobo Zou
- China Light Industry Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Detection & Processing, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
- International Research Center for Food Nutrition and Safety, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
| | - Zhiming Guo
- China Light Industry Key Laboratory of Food Intelligent Detection & Processing, School of Food and Biological Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China.
- International Joint Research Laboratory of Intelligent Agriculture and Agri-products Processing, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, China
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6
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Ren G, Sun H, Nakagawa K, Sugita N, Ito Y. Crackless high-aspect-ratio processing of a silica glass with a temporally shaped ultrafast laser. OPTICS LETTERS 2024; 49:2321-2324. [PMID: 38691709 DOI: 10.1364/ol.522052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/03/2024]
Abstract
In this Letter, we propose a crackless high-aspect-ratio processing method based on a temporally shaped ultrafast laser. The laser pulse is temporally split into two sub pulses: one with smaller energy is used to excite electrons but without ablation so that the applied pressure to the sample is weak, and the other one is used to heat the electrons and achieve material removal after it is temporally stretched by a chirped volume Bragg grating (CVBG). Compared with the conventional ultrafast laser processing, the crack generation is almost suppressed by using this proposed method. The hole depth increases more than 3.3 times, and the aspect ratio is improved at least 2.2 times. Moreover, processing dynamics and parameter dependence are further experimentally studied. It shows that the processing highly depends on the density of electrons excited by the first pulse (P1) and the energy of the second pulse (P2). This novel, to the best of our knowledge, method provides a new route for the precise processing of wide-bandgap materials.
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7
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Mohammadi M, Ahmed Qadir S, Mahmood Faraj A, Hamid Shareef O, Mahmoodi H, Mahmoudi F, Moradi S. Navigating the future: Microfluidics charting new routes in drug delivery. Int J Pharm 2024:124142. [PMID: 38648941 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2024.124142] [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: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024]
Abstract
Microfluidics has emerged as a transformative force in the field of drug delivery, offering innovative avenues to produce a diverse range of nano drug delivery systems. Thanks to its precise manipulation of small fluid volumes and its exceptional command over the physicochemical characteristics of nanoparticles, this technology is notably able to enhance the pharmacokinetics of drugs. It has initiated a revolutionary phase in the domain of drug delivery, presenting a multitude of compelling advantages when it comes to developing nanocarriers tailored for the delivery of poorly soluble medications. These advantages represent a substantial departure from conventional drug delivery methodologies, marking a paradigm shift in pharmaceutical research and development. Furthermore, microfluidic platformsmay be strategically devised to facilitate targeted drug delivery with the objective of enhancing the localized bioavailability of pharmaceutical substances. In this paper, we have comprehensively investigated a range of significant microfluidic techniques used in the production of nanoscale drug delivery systems. This comprehensive review can serve as a valuable reference and offer insightful guidance for the development and optimization of numerous microfluidics-fabricated nanocarriers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Mohammadi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Syamand Ahmed Qadir
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Halabja Technical Institute, Research Center, Sulaimani Polytechnic University, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Aryan Mahmood Faraj
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Halabja Technical College of Applied Sciences, Sulaimani Polytechnic University, Halabja, Iraq
| | - Osama Hamid Shareef
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Halabja Technical Institute, Research Center, Sulaimani Polytechnic University, Sulaymaniyah, Iraq
| | - Hassan Mahmoodi
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Mahmoudi
- Department of Medical Nanotechnology, School of Advanced Medical Sciences and Technologies, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Sajad Moradi
- Nano Drug Delivery Research Center, Health Technology Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran.
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8
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Khambhati K, Siruka D, Ramakrishna S, Singh V. Current progress in high-throughput screening for drug repurposing. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2024; 205:247-257. [PMID: 38789182 DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2024.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
High-throughput screening (HTS) is a simple, rapid and cost-effective solution to determine active candidates from large library of compounds. HTS is gaining attention from Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology companies for accelerating their drug discovery programs. Conventional drug discovery program is time consuming and expensive. In contrast drug repurposing approach is cost-effective and increases speed of drug discovery as toxicity profile is already known. The present chapter highlight HTS technology including microplate, microfluidics, lab-on-chip, organ-on-chip for drug repurposing. The current chapter also highlights the application of HTS for bacterial infections and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khushal Khambhati
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India
| | - Deepak Siruka
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India
| | - Suresh Ramakrishna
- Graduate School of Biomedical Science and Engineering, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea; College of Medicine, Hanyang University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Vijai Singh
- Department of Biosciences, School of Science, Indrashil University, Rajpur, Mehsana, Gujarat, India.
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9
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Chen W, Wang P, Li B. Experimental Study on SPR Array Sensing Chip Integrated with Microvalves. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:2540. [PMID: 38676157 PMCID: PMC11054027 DOI: 10.3390/s24082540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
This paper discusses a microfluidic system designed for surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensing, incorporating integrated microvalves. This system is built from a layered structure of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) and polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). The functionality of the microvalves is verified through a conductance method involving electrodes positioned at the microfluidic channels' inlets and outlets. These microvalves can fully close at a control pressure of 0.3 MPa, with their operation depending on the duration of the applied pressure. The study further explores the coordinated operation of multiple microvalves to regulate the sequential flow of samples and reagents in the system. In SPR detection experiments, the microfluidic system is integrated with an SPR array sensing system to control the injection of NaCl solutions via the microvalves, and the observation of phase change curves in different chip regions are observed. The findings validate the microvalves' dependability and suitability for use in SPR array sensing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanwan Chen
- Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Peng Wang
- Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Precision Instrument, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
- Research Institute of Tsinghua, Pearl River Delta, Guangzhou 510530, China
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10
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Ma L, Zhao X, Hou J, Huang L, Yao Y, Ding Z, Wei J, Hao N. Droplet Microfluidic Devices: Working Principles, Fabrication Methods, and Scale-Up Applications. SMALL METHODS 2024:e2301406. [PMID: 38594964 DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202301406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Compared with the conventional emulsification method, droplets generated within microfluidic devices exhibit distinct advantages such as precise control of fluids, exceptional monodispersity, uniform morphology, flexible manipulation, and narrow size distribution. These inherent benefits, including intrinsic safety, excellent heat and mass transfer capabilities, and large surface-to-volume ratio, have led to the widespread applications of droplet-based microfluidics across diverse fields, encompassing chemical engineering, particle synthesis, biological detection, diagnostics, emulsion preparation, and pharmaceuticals. However, despite its promising potential for versatile applications, the practical utilization of this technology in commercial and industrial is extremely limited to the inherently low production rates achievable within a single microchannel. Over the past two decades, droplet-based microfluidics has evolved significantly, considerably transitioning from a proof-of-concept stage to industrialization. And now there is a growing trend towards translating academic research into commercial and industrial applications, primarily driven by the burgeoning demands of various fields. This paper comprehensively reviews recent advancements in droplet-based microfluidics, covering the fundamental working principles and the critical aspect of scale-up integration from working principles to scale-up integration. Based on the existing scale-up strategies, the paper also outlines the future research directions, identifies the potential opportunities, and addresses the typical unsolved challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ma
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Xiong Zhao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Junsheng Hou
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Lei Huang
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Yilong Yao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Zihan Ding
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Jinjia Wei
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
| | - Nanjing Hao
- School of Chemical Engineering and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, 28 Xianning West Road, Xi'an, Shaanxi, 710049, P. R. China
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11
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Esene JE, Burningham AJ, Tahir A, Nordin GP, Woolley AT. 3D printed microfluidic devices for integrated solid-phase extraction and microchip electrophoresis of preterm birth biomarkers. Anal Chim Acta 2024; 1296:342338. [PMID: 38401930 PMCID: PMC10895869 DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2024.342338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm birth (PTB) is a leading cause of neonatal mortality, such that the need for a rapid and accurate assessment for PTB risk is critical. Here, we developed a 3D printed microfluidic system that integrated solid-phase extraction (SPE) and microchip electrophoresis (μCE) of PTB biomarkers, enabling the combination of biomarker enrichment and labeling with μCE separation and fluorescence detection. RESULTS Reversed-phase SPE monoliths were photopolymerized in 3D printed devices. Microvalves in the device directed sample between the SPE monolith and the injection cross-channel in the serpentine μCE channel. Successful on-chip preconcentration, labeling and μCE separation of four PTB-related polypeptides were demonstrated in these integrated microfluidic devices. We further show the ability of these devices to handle complex sample matrices through the successful analysis of labeled PTB biomarkers spiked into maternal blood serum. The detection limit was 7 nM for the PTB biomarker, corticotropin releasing factor, in 3D printed SPE-μCE integrated devices. SIGNIFICANCE This work represents the first successful demonstration of integration of SPE and μCE separation of disease-linked biomarkers in 3D printed microfluidic devices. These studies open up promising possibilities for rapid bioanalysis of medically relevant analytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joule E Esene
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Addalyn J Burningham
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Anum Tahir
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Adam T Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
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12
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Raju CM, Elpa DP, Urban PL. Automation and Computerization of (Bio)sensing Systems. ACS Sens 2024; 9:1033-1048. [PMID: 38363106 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.3c01887] [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] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Sensing systems necessitate automation to reduce human effort, increase reproducibility, and enable remote sensing. In this perspective, we highlight different types of sensing systems with elements of automation, which are based on flow injection and sequential injection analysis, microfluidics, robotics, and other prototypes addressing specific real-world problems. Finally, we discuss the role of computer technology in sensing systems. Automated flow injection and sequential injection techniques offer precise and efficient sample handling and dependable outcomes. They enable continuous analysis of numerous samples, boosting throughput, and saving time and resources. They enhance safety by minimizing contact with hazardous chemicals. Microfluidic systems are enhanced by automation to enable precise control of parameters and increase of analysis speed. Robotic sampling and sample preparation platforms excel in precise execution of intricate, repetitive tasks such as sample handling, dilution, and transfer. These platforms enhance efficiency by multitasking, use minimal sample volumes, and they seamlessly integrate with analytical instruments. Other sensor prototypes utilize mechanical devices and computer technology to address real-world issues, offering efficient, accurate, and economical real-time solutions for analyte identification and quantification in remote areas. Computer technology is crucial in modern sensing systems, enabling data acquisition, signal processing, real-time analysis, and data storage. Machine learning and artificial intelligence enhance predictions from the sensor data, supporting the Internet of Things with efficient data management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chamarthi Maheswar Raju
- Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu 300044, Taiwan
| | - Decibel P Elpa
- Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu 300044, Taiwan
| | - Pawel L Urban
- Department of Chemistry, National Tsing Hua University 101, Section 2, Kuang-Fu Rd., Hsinchu 300044, Taiwan
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13
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Zhang S, Staples AE. Microfluidic-based systems for the management of diabetes. Drug Deliv Transl Res 2024:10.1007/s13346-024-01569-y. [PMID: 38509342 DOI: 10.1007/s13346-024-01569-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Diabetes currently affects approximately 500 million people worldwide and is one of the most common causes of mortality in the United States. To diagnose and monitor diabetes, finger-prick blood glucose testing has long been used as the clinical gold standard. For diabetes treatment, insulin is typically delivered subcutaneously through cannula-based syringes, pens, or pumps in almost all type 1 diabetic (T1D) patients and some type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients. These painful, invasive approaches can cause non-adherence to glucose testing and insulin therapy. To address these problems, researchers have developed miniaturized blood glucose testing devices as well as microfluidic platforms for non-invasive glucose testing through other body fluids. In addition, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), insulin levels, and cellular biomechanics-related metrics have also been considered for microfluidic-based diabetes diagnosis. For the treatment of diabetes, insulin has been delivered transdermally through microdevices, mostly through microneedle array-based, minimally invasive injections. Researchers have also developed microfluidic platforms for oral, intraperitoneal, and inhalation-based delivery of insulin. For T2D patients, metformin, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), and GLP-1 receptor agonists have also been delivered using microfluidic technologies. Thus far, clinical studies have been widely performed on microfluidic-based diabetes monitoring, especially glucose sensing, yet technologies for the delivery of insulin and other drugs to diabetic patients with microfluidics are still mostly in the preclinical stage. This article provides a concise review of the role of microfluidic devices in the diagnosis and monitoring of diabetes, as well as the delivery of pharmaceuticals to treat diabetes using microfluidic technologies in the recent literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyu Zhang
- Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
| | - Anne E Staples
- Virginia Tech-Wake Forest School of Biomedical Engineering and Sciences, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
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14
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Li B, Zhang L, Bai S, Jin J, Chen H. A brief overview of passive microvalves in microfluidics: Mechanism, manufacturing, and applications. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2024; 18:021506. [PMID: 38659429 PMCID: PMC11037934 DOI: 10.1063/5.0188807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Microvalves play a crucial role in manipulating fluid states within a microfluidic system and are finding widespread applications in fields such as biology, medicine, and environmental preservation. Leveraging the characteristics and features of microvalves enables the realization of various complicated microfluidic functions. Continuous advancement in the manufacturing process contributes to more flexible control modes for passive microvalves. As a consequence, these valves are progressively shrinking in size while simultaneously improving in precision and stability. Although active microvalves have the benefits of low leakage, rapid response time, and wide adaptability range, the energy supply system limits the size and even their applicability in integration and miniaturization. In comparison, passive microvalves have the advantage of relying solely on the fluid flow or fluid driving pressure to control the open/close of fluid flow over active microvalves, in spite of having slightly reduced control accuracy. Their self-sustaining feature is highly consistent with the need for assembly and miniaturization in the point-of-care testing technology. Hence, these valves have attracted significant interest for research and application purposes. This review focuses on the recent literature on passive microvalves and details existing passive microvalves from three different aspects: operating principle, processing method, and applications. This work aims to increase the visibility of passive microvalves among researchers and enhance their comprehension by classifying them according to the aforementioned three aspects, facilitating the practical applications and further developments of passive microvalves. Additionally, this paper is expected to serve as a comprehensive and systematic reference for interdisciplinary researchers that intend to design related microfluidic systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Li
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Ludan Zhang
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Siwei Bai
- Authors to whom correspondence should be addressed:; ; and . Tel.: +86 755 8615 3249
| | - Jing Jin
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Huaying Chen
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen, Shenzhen 518055, China
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15
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Tzianni EI, Sakkas VA, Prodromidis MI. Wax screen-printable ink for massive fabrication of negligible-to-nil cost fabric-based microfluidic (bio)sensing devices for colorimetric analysis of sweat. Talanta 2024; 269:125475. [PMID: 38039670 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2023.125475] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Fabric-based microfluidic analytical devices (μADs) have emerged as a promising material for replacing paper μADs thanks to their superior properties in terms of stretchability, mechanical strength, and their wide scope of applicability in wearable devices or embedded in garments. The major obstacle in their widespread use is the lack of a technique enabling their massive fabrication at a negligible-to-nil cost. In response, we report the development of a wax ink with proper thixotropic and hydrophobic properties, fully compatible with automatic screen-printing that allows the one step massive fabrication of microfluidics on a cotton/elastane fabric, with a printing resolution 400 μm (hydrophilic channel) and 1000 μm (hydrophobic barrier), without being necessary any post curing. The cost of the ink (50 g) and of each microfluidic device is ca. 2.3 and 0.007 €, respectively. The active component of the ink was a refined beeswax in a matrix based on ethyl cellulose in 2-butoxy ethyl acetate. Screen-printed fabric μADs were used for the simultaneous colorimetric determination of pH and urea in untreated human sweat by using multivariate regression analysis. This method enabled the direct measurement of urea using urease, regardless of the sweat's pH, and shows strong agreement with a reference method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni I Tzianni
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, University of Ioannina, 45 110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Vasilios A Sakkas
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, University of Ioannina, 45 110, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Mamas I Prodromidis
- Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry, University of Ioannina, 45 110, Ioannina, Greece.
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16
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AlMashrea BA, Almehdi AM, Damiati S. Simple microfluidic devices for in situ detection of water contamination: a state-of-art review. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2024; 12:1355768. [PMID: 38371420 PMCID: PMC10869488 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2024.1355768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Water security is an important global issue that is pivotal in the pursuit of sustainable resources for future generations. It is a multifaceted concept that combines water availability with the quality of the water's chemical, biological, and physical characteristics to ensure its suitability and safety. Water quality is a focal aspect of water security. Quality index data are determined and provided via laboratory testing using expensive instrumentation with high maintenance costs and expertise. Due to increased practices in this sector that can compromise water quality, innovative technologies such as microfluidics are necessary to accelerate the timeline of test procedures. Microfluidic technology demonstrates sophisticated functionality in various applications due to the chip's miniaturization system that can control the movement of fluids in tiny amounts and be used for onsite testing when integrated with smart applications. This review aims to highlight the basics of microfluidic technology starting from the component system to the properties of the chip's fabricated materials. The published research on developing microfluidic sensor devices for monitoring chemical and biological contaminants in water is summarized to understand the obstacles and challenges and explore future opportunities for advancement in water quality monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Buthaina A. AlMashrea
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Chemical Analysis Laboratories Section, Dubai Central Laboratory Department, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ahmed M. Almehdi
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Samar Damiati
- Department of Chemistry, College of Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
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17
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Jayachandran A, Parween S, Asthana A, Kar S. Microfluidics-Based Blood Typing Devices: An In-Depth Overview. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2024; 7:59-79. [PMID: 38115212 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00995] [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] [Indexed: 12/21/2023]
Abstract
Identification of correct blood types holds paramount importance in understanding the pathophysiological parameters of patients, therapeutic interventions, and blood transfusion. Considering the wide applications of blood typing, the requirement of centralized laboratory facilities is not well suited on many occasions. In this context, there has been a significant development of such blood typing devices on different microfluidic platforms. The advantages of these microfluidic devices offer easy, rapid test protocols, which could potentially be adapted in resource-limited settings and thereby can truly lead to the decentralization of testing facilities. The advantages of pump-free liquid transport (i.e., low power consumption) and biodegradability of paper substrates (e.g., reduction in medical wastes) make it a more preferred platform in comparison to other microfluidic devices. However, these devices are often coupled with some inherent challenges, which limit their potential to be used on a mass commercial scale. In this context, our Review offers a succinct summary of the recent development, especially to understand the importance of underlying facets for long-term sustainability. Our Review also delineates the role of integration with digital technologies to minimize errors in interpreting the readouts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Jayachandran
- Department of Medical Devices, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Shahila Parween
- MNR Foundation for Research & Innovations (MNR-FRI), MNR Medical College & Hospital, MNR Nagar, Narsapur Road, Sangareddy 502294, India
| | - Amit Asthana
- Department of Medical Devices, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
| | - Shantimoy Kar
- Department of Medical Devices, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER), Hyderabad 500037, India
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18
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Steijlen ASM, Parrilla M, Van Echelpoel R, De Wael K. Dual Microfluidic Sensor System for Enriched Electrochemical Profiling and Identification of Illicit Drugs On-Site. Anal Chem 2024; 96:590-598. [PMID: 38154077 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.3c05039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Electrochemical sensors have emerged as a new analytical tool for illicit drug detection to facilitate ultrafast and accurate identification of suspicious compounds on-site. Drugs of abuse can be identified using their unique voltammetric fingerprint at a given pH. Today, the right buffer solution is manually selected based on drug appearance, and in some cases, a consecutive analysis in two different pH solutions is required. In this work, we present a disposable microfluidic multichannel sensor system that automatically records fingerprints in two pH solutions (e.g., pH 5 and pH 12). This system has two advantages. It will overcome the manual selection of a buffer solution at the right pH, decrease analysis time, and minimize the risk of human errors. Second, the combination of two fingerprints, the superfingerprint, contains more detailed information about the samples, which enhances the selectivity of the analytical technique. First, real-time pH measurements proved that the sample can be brought to the desired pH within a minute. Subsequently, an electrochemical study on the microfluidic platform with 1 mM illicit drug standards of MDMA, cocaine, heroin, and methamphetamine showed that the characteristic voltammetric fingerprints and peak potentials are reproducible, also in the presence of common cutting agents. Finally, the microfluidic concept was validated with real confiscated samples, showing promising results for the user-friendly identification of drugs of abuse. In short, this paper presents a successful proof-of-concept study of a multichannel microfluidic sensor system to enrich the fingerprints of illicit drugs at pH 5 and pH 12, thus providing a low-cost, portable, and rapid identification system of illicit drugs with minimal user intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemarijn S M Steijlen
- A-Sense Lab, Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Marc Parrilla
- A-Sense Lab, Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Robin Van Echelpoel
- A-Sense Lab, Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Karolien De Wael
- A-Sense Lab, Department of Bioscience Engineering, University of Antwerp, Groenenborgerlaan 171, 2020 Antwerp, Belgium
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19
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Ma J, Xie Q, Zhang Y, Xiao Q, Liu X, Qiao C, Tian Y. Advances in microfluidic technology for sperm screening and in vitro fertilization. Anal Bioanal Chem 2024:10.1007/s00216-023-05120-9. [PMID: 38189916 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-05120-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024]
Abstract
About 18% of reproductive-age adults worldwide are affected by infertility. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) are widely used assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) aimed at improving clinical outcomes. Efficient and noninvasive selection and isolation of highly motile sperm with intact DNA are essential for the success of IVF and ICSI and can potentially impact the therapeutic efficacy and the health of the offspring. Compared to traditional methods, microfluidic technology offers significant advantages such as low sample consumption, high efficiency, minimal damage, high integration, similar microenvironment, and high automation, providing a new platform for ARTs. Here, we review the current situation of microfluidic technology in the field of sperm motility screening and evaluation and IVF research. First, we focus on the working principle, structural design, and screening results of sperm selection microfluidic platforms. We then highlight how the multiple steps of the IVF process can be facilitated and integrated into a microfluidic chip, including oocyte capture, sperm collection and isolation, sperm sorting, fertilization, and embryo culture. Ultimately, we summarize how microfluidics can complement and optimize current sperm sorting and IVF protocols, and challenges and possible solutions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingtong Ma
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Qianlin Xie
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Yusongjia Zhang
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Qirui Xiao
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, Shenyang, 110003, China.
| | - Chong Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110022, China.
- Key Laboratory of Maternal-Fetal Medicine of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, 110022, China.
| | - Ye Tian
- College of Medicine and Biological Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, 110169, China.
- Foshan Graduate School of Innovation, Northeastern University, Foshan, 528300, China.
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20
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Xu M, Vidler C, Wang J, Chen X, Pan Z, Harley WS, Lee PVS, Collins DJ. Micro-Acoustic Holograms for Detachable Microfluidic Devices. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024:e2307529. [PMID: 38174594 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202307529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Acoustic microfluidic devices have advantages for diagnostic applications, therapeutic solutions, and fundamental research due to their contactless operation, simple design, and biocompatibility. However, most acoustofluidic approaches are limited to forming simple and fixed acoustic patterns, or have limited resolution. In this study,a detachable microfluidic device is demonstrated employing miniature acoustic holograms to create reconfigurable, flexible, and high-resolution acoustic fields in microfluidic channels, where the introduction of a solid coupling layer makes these holograms easy to fabricate and integrate. The application of this method to generate flexible acoustic fields, including shapes, characters, and arbitrarily rotated patterns, within microfluidic channels, is demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingxin Xu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Callum Vidler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Jizhen Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Zijian Pan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - William S Harley
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
| | - Peter V S Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
- Graeme Clarke Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
| | - David J Collins
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3010, Australia
- Graeme Clarke Institute, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, 3052, Australia
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21
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Krakos A. Lab-on-chip technologies for space research - current trends and prospects. Mikrochim Acta 2023; 191:31. [PMID: 38095809 PMCID: PMC10721686 DOI: 10.1007/s00604-023-06084-4] [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: 09/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The in-depth analysis concerning application of microfluidic instruments for space biology research is presented. The article focuses on recently investigated key scientific fields, i.e., lab-on-chips applied to the biomedical studies performed in the (1) International Space Station and (2) CubeSat nanosatellites. The paper presents also the lab-on-chip devices that were fabricated with a view to future space biology research and to those that to date have been solely been tested under Earth laboratory conditions and/or simulated microgravity environments. NASA and ESA conceptual mission plans for future are also mentioned, concerning for instance "tissue chips" and the ESA-SPHEROIDS campaign. The paper ends with final conclusions and future perspectives regarding lab-on-chip application in the space biology sector and its impact on novel biomedical and pharmaceutical strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnieszka Krakos
- Department of Microsystems, Wroclaw University of Science and Technology, Janiszewskiego 11/17, 50-372, Wroclaw, Poland.
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22
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Nielsen JB, Holladay JD, Burningham AJ, Rapier-Sharman N, Ramsey JS, Skaggs TB, Nordin GP, Pickett BE, Woolley AT. Monolithic affinity columns in 3D printed microfluidics for chikungunya RNA detection. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023; 415:7057-7065. [PMID: 37801120 PMCID: PMC10840819 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-023-04971-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 09/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Mosquito-borne pathogens plague much of the world, yet rapid and simple diagnosis is not available for many affected patients. Using a custom stereolithography 3D printer, we created microfluidic devices with affinity monoliths that could retain, noncovalently attach a fluorescent tag, and detect oligonucleotide and viral RNA. We optimized the fluorescent binding and sample load times using an oligonucleotide sequence from chikungunya virus (CHIKV). We also tested the specificity of CHIKV capture relative to genetically similar Sindbis virus. Moreover, viral RNA from both viruses was flowed through capture columns to study the efficiency and specificity of the column for viral CHIKV. We detected ~107 loaded viral genome copies, which was similar to levels in clinical samples during acute infection. These results show considerable promise for development of this platform into a rapid mosquito-borne viral pathogen detection system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob B Nielsen
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - James D Holladay
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Addalyn J Burningham
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Naomi Rapier-Sharman
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Joshua S Ramsey
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Timothy B Skaggs
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Brett E Pickett
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Biology, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA
| | - Adam T Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, USA.
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23
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Dabbagh Moghaddam F, Dadgar D, Esmaeili Y, Babolmorad S, Ilkhani E, Rafiee M, Wang XD, Makvandi P. Microfluidic platforms in diagnostic of ovarian cancer. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:117084. [PMID: 37683792 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
The most important reason for death from ovarian cancer is the late diagnosis of this disease. The standard treatment of ovarian cancer includes surgery and chemotherapy based on platinum, which is associated with side effects for the body. Due to the nonspecific nature of clinical symptoms, developing a platform for early detection of this disease is needed. In recent decades, the advancements of microfluidic devices and systems have provided several advantages for diagnosing ovarian cancer. Designing and manufacturing new platforms using specialized technologies can be a big step toward improving the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of this group of diseases. Organ-on-a-chip microfluidic devices are increasingly used as a promising platform in cancer research, with a focus on specific biological aspects of the disease. This review focusing on ovarian cancer and microfluidic application technologies in its diagnosis. Additionally, it discusses microfluidic platforms and their potential future perspectives in advancing ovarian cancer diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farnaz Dabbagh Moghaddam
- Institute for Photonics and Nanotechnologies, National Research Council, Via Fosso del Cavaliere, 100, 00133, Rome, Italy.
| | - Delara Dadgar
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Yasaman Esmaeili
- Biosensor Research Center, School of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, 8174673461, Iran
| | - Shahrzad Babolmorad
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ehsan Ilkhani
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maedeh Rafiee
- Department of Veterinary Sciences University of Wyoming, 1174 Snowy Range Road Laramie, WY, 82070, USA
| | - Xiang-Dong Wang
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University Shanghai Medical College, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Pooyan Makvandi
- The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, 324000, Quzhou, Zhejiang, China.
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24
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Fuciños C, Rodríguez-Sanz A, García-Caamaño E, Gerbino E, Torrado A, Gómez-Zavaglia A, Rúa ML. Microfluidics potential for developing food-grade microstructures through emulsification processes and their application. Food Res Int 2023; 172:113086. [PMID: 37689862 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2023.113086] [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: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
The food sector continues to face challenges in developing techniques to increase the bioavailability of bioactive chemicals. Utilising microstructures capable of encapsulating diverse compounds has been proposed as a technological solution for their transport both in food and into the gastrointestinal tract. The present review discusses the primary elements that influence the emulsification process in microfluidic systems to form different microstructures for food applications. In microfluidic systems, reactions occur within small reaction channels (1-1000 μm), using small amounts of samples and reactants, ca. 102-103 times less than conventional assays. This geometry provides several advantages for emulsion and encapsulating structure production, like less waste generation, lower cost and gentle assays. Also, from a food application perspective, it allows the decrease in particle dispersion, resulting in a highly repeatable and efficient synthesis method that also improves the palatability of the food products into which the encapsulates are incorporated. However, it also entails some particular requirements. It is important to obtain a low Reynolds number (Re < approx. 250) for greater precision in droplet formation. Also, microfluidics requires fluid viscosity typically between 0.3 and 1400 mPa s at 20 °C. So, it is a challenge to find food-grade fluids that can operate at the micro-scale of these systems. Microfluidic systems can be used to synthesise different food-grade microstructures: microemulsions, solid lipid microparticles, microgels, or self-assembled structures like liposomes, niosomes, or polymersomes. Besides, microfluidics is particularly useful for accurately encapsulating bacterial cells to control their delivery and release on the action site. However, despite the significant advancement in these systems' development over the past several years, developing and implementing these systems on an industrial scale remains challenging for the food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Fuciños
- Departamento de Química Analítica e Alimentaria, Universidade de Vigo, Laboratorio de Bioquímica, 32004 Ourense, Spain.
| | - Andrea Rodríguez-Sanz
- Departamento de Química Analítica e Alimentaria, Universidade de Vigo, Laboratorio de Bioquímica, 32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - Esther García-Caamaño
- Departamento de Química Analítica e Alimentaria, Universidade de Vigo, Laboratorio de Bioquímica, 32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - Esteban Gerbino
- Center for Research and Development in Food Cryotechnology (CCT-CONICET La Plata) RA-1900, Argentina
| | - Ana Torrado
- Departamento de Química Analítica e Alimentaria, Universidade de Vigo, Laboratorio de Bioquímica, 32004 Ourense, Spain
| | - Andrea Gómez-Zavaglia
- Center for Research and Development in Food Cryotechnology (CCT-CONICET La Plata) RA-1900, Argentina.
| | - María L Rúa
- Departamento de Química Analítica e Alimentaria, Universidade de Vigo, Laboratorio de Bioquímica, 32004 Ourense, Spain
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25
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Orabi M, Lo JF. Emerging Advances in Microfluidic Hydrogel Droplets for Tissue Engineering and STEM Cell Mechanobiology. Gels 2023; 9:790. [PMID: 37888363 PMCID: PMC10606214 DOI: 10.3390/gels9100790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Hydrogel droplets are biodegradable and biocompatible materials with promising applications in tissue engineering, cell encapsulation, and clinical treatments. They represent a well-controlled microstructure to bridge the spatial divide between two-dimensional cell cultures and three-dimensional tissues, toward the recreation of entire organs. The applications of hydrogel droplets in regenerative medicine require a thorough understanding of microfluidic techniques, the biocompatibility of hydrogel materials, and droplet production and manipulation mechanisms. Although hydrogel droplets were well studied, several emerging advances promise to extend current applications to tissue engineering and beyond. Hydrogel droplets can be designed with high surface-to-volume ratios and a variety of matrix microstructures. Microfluidics provides precise control of the flow patterns required for droplet generation, leading to tight distributions of particle size, shape, matrix, and mechanical properties in the resultant microparticles. This review focuses on recent advances in microfluidic hydrogel droplet generation. First, the theoretical principles of microfluidics, materials used in fabrication, and new 3D fabrication techniques were discussed. Then, the hydrogels used in droplet generation and their cell and tissue engineering applications were reviewed. Finally, droplet generation mechanisms were addressed, such as droplet production, droplet manipulation, and surfactants used to prevent coalescence. Lastly, we propose that microfluidic hydrogel droplets can enable novel shear-related tissue engineering and regeneration studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Joe F. Lo
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, 4901 Evergreen Road, Dearborn, MI 48128, USA;
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26
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Esene JE, Nasman PR, Miner DS, Nordin GP, Woolley AT. High-performance microchip electrophoresis separations of preterm birth biomarkers using 3D printed microfluidic devices. J Chromatogr A 2023; 1706:464242. [PMID: 37595419 PMCID: PMC10473225 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2023.464242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 08/20/2023]
Abstract
We employed digital light processing-stereolithography 3D printing to create microfluidic devices with different designs for microchip electrophoresis (µCE). Short or long straight channel, and two- or four-turn serpentine channel microfluidic devices with separation channel lengths of 1.3, 3.1, 3.0, and 4.7 cm, respectively, all with a cross injector design, were fabricated. We measured current as a function of time and voltage to determine a separation time window and conditions for the onset of Joule heating in these designs. Separations in these devices were evaluated by performing µCE and measuring theoretical plate counts for electric field strengths near and above the onset of Joule heating, with fluorescently labeled glycine and phenylalanine as model analytes. We further demonstrated µCE of peptides and proteins related to preterm birth risk, showing increased peak capacity and resolution compared to previous results with 3D printed microdevices. These results mark an important step forward in the use of 3D printed microfluidic devices for rapid bioanalysis by µCE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joule E Esene
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Parker R Nasman
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Dallin S Miner
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Gregory P Nordin
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Adam T Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
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27
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Chen DP, Wu PY, Lin YH. Irregular Antibody Screening Using a Microdroplet Platform. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:869. [PMID: 37754103 PMCID: PMC10526156 DOI: 10.3390/bios13090869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The screening procedure for antibodies is considered the most tedious among the three pretransfusion operations, i.e., ABO and Rhesus (Rh) typing, irregular antibody screening/identification, and crossmatching tests. The commonly used screening method for irregular antibodies in clinics at present is a manual polybrene test (MP). The MP test involves numerous reagent replacement and centrifuge procedures, and the sample volume is expected to be relatively less. Herein, screening red blood cells (RBCs) and serum irregular antibodies are encapsulated in microdroplets with a diameter of ~300 μm for a hemagglutination reaction. Owing to the advantage of spatial limitation in microdroplets, screening RBCs and irregular antibodies can be directly agglutinated, thereby eliminating the need for centrifugation and the addition of reagents to promote agglutination, as required by the MP method. Furthermore, the results for a large number of repeated tests can be concurrently obtained, further simplifying the steps of irregular antibody screening and increasing accuracy. Eight irregular antibodies are screened using the proposed platform, and the results are consistent with the MP method. Moreover, the volume of blood samples and antibodies can be reduced to 10 μL and 5 μL, respectively, which is ten times less than that using the MP method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ding-Ping Chen
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan City 33305, Taiwan
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Laboratory Science, College of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 33302, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Yu Wu
- Department of Electronic Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 33302, Taiwan
| | - Yen-Heng Lin
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan City 33305, Taiwan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 33302, Taiwan
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28
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Zhu L, Wu M, Li R, Zhao Y, Lu Y, Wang T, Du L, Wan L. Research progress on pesticide residue detection based on microfluidic technology. Electrophoresis 2023; 44:1377-1404. [PMID: 37496295 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202300048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
The problem of pesticide residue contamination has attracted widespread attention and poses a risk to human health. The current traditional pesticide residue detection methods have difficulty meeting rapid and diverse field screening requirements. Microfluidic technology integrates functions from sample preparation to detection, showing great potential for quick and accurate high-throughput detection of pesticide residues. This paper reviews the latest research progress on microfluidic technology for pesticide residue detection. First, the commonly used microfluidic materials are summarized, including silicon, glass, paper, polydimethylsiloxane, and polymethyl methacrylate. We evaluated their advantages and disadvantages in pesticide residue detection applications. Second, the current pesticide residue detection technology based on microfluidics and its application to real samples are summarized. Finally, we discuss this technology's present challenges and future research directions. This study is expected to provide a reference for the future development of microfluidic technology for pesticide residue detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lv Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Mengyao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Ruiyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Yunyan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Yang Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Ting Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Leilei Du
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
- School of Ethnic Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
| | - Li Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Southwestern Chinese Medicine Resources, School of Pharmacy, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, P. R. China
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Akbari Z, Raoufi MA, Mirjalali S, Aghajanloo B. A review on inertial microfluidic fabrication methods. BIOMICROFLUIDICS 2023; 17:051504. [PMID: 37869745 PMCID: PMC10589053 DOI: 10.1063/5.0163970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, there has been significant interest in inertial microfluidics due to its high throughput, ease of fabrication, and no need for external forces. The focusing efficiency of inertial microfluidic systems relies entirely on the geometrical features of microchannels because hydrodynamic forces (inertial lift forces and Dean drag forces) are the main driving forces in inertial microfluidic devices. In the past few years, novel microchannel structures have been propounded to improve particle manipulation efficiency. However, the fabrication of these unconventional structures has remained a serious challenge. Although researchers have pushed forward the frontiers of microfabrication technologies, the fabrication techniques employed for inertial microfluidics have not been discussed comprehensively. This review introduces the microfabrication approaches used for creating inertial microchannels, including photolithography, xurography, laser cutting, micromachining, microwire technique, etching, hot embossing, 3D printing, and injection molding. The advantages and disadvantages of these methods have also been discussed. Then, the techniques are reviewed regarding resolution, structures, cost, and materials. This review provides a thorough insight into the manufacturing methods of inertial microchannels, which could be helpful for future studies to improve the harvesting yield and resolution by choosing a proper fabrication technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Akbari
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Sheyda Mirjalali
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Behrouz Aghajanloo
- School of Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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30
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Chen T, Cui L, He W, Liu R, Feng C, Wu L, Wang Y, Liu H, Qian L, Yu B. Controlling amorphous silicon in scratching for fabricating high-performance micromixers. LAB ON A CHIP 2023; 23:3794-3801. [PMID: 37498210 DOI: 10.1039/d3lc00320e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Abstract
As core parts of microfluidic chip analysis systems, micromixers show robust applications in wide fields. However, restricted by the fabrication technology, it remains challenging to achieve high-quality micromixers with both delicately designed structure and efficient mixing. In this study, based on the theory of chaotic mixing, sinusoidal structures with variable phases were designed and then fabricated through scanning probe lithography (SPL) and post-selective etching. It was found that scratches with phase differences can lead to the periodic formation of amorphous silicon (a-Si), which can resist etching. Consequentially, misaligned sine channels with thick-thin alternating 3D shapes can be generated in situ from the scratched traces after the etching. Further analysis showed that a thicker a-Si layer can be obtained by reducing the line spacing in the scratching, confirmed by Raman detections and simulations. With the proposed method, the misaligned sine micromixer was achieved with higher mixing efficiency than ever. The duplicating process was also investigated for high-precision production of micromixers. The study provided strategies for the miniaturization of high-performance microfluidic chips.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Chen
- Tribology Research Institute, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Licong Cui
- Tribology Research Institute, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Wang He
- Tribology Research Institute, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Renxing Liu
- Tribology Research Institute, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Chengqiang Feng
- Tribology Research Institute, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Lei Wu
- Tribology Research Institute, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Yang Wang
- Academy of Frontier Sciences, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China
| | - Huiyun Liu
- Department of Electronic & Electrical Engineering, University College London, Torrington Place, London WC1E 7JE, UK
| | - Linmao Qian
- Tribology Research Institute, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
| | - Bingjun Yu
- Tribology Research Institute, School of Mechanical Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu 610031, China.
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31
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Newman G, Leclerc A, Arditi W, Calzuola ST, Feaugas T, Roy E, Perrault CM, Porrini C, Bechelany M. Challenge of material haemocompatibility for microfluidic blood-contacting applications. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2023; 11:1249753. [PMID: 37662438 PMCID: PMC10469978 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2023.1249753] [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: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Biological applications of microfluidics technology is beginning to expand beyond the original focus of diagnostics, analytics and organ-on-chip devices. There is a growing interest in the development of microfluidic devices for therapeutic treatments, such as extra-corporeal haemodialysis and oxygenation. However, the great potential in this area comes with great challenges. Haemocompatibility of materials has long been a concern for blood-contacting medical devices, and microfluidic devices are no exception. The small channel size, high surface area to volume ratio and dynamic conditions integral to microchannels contribute to the blood-material interactions. This review will begin by describing features of microfluidic technology with a focus on blood-contacting applications. Material haemocompatibility will be discussed in the context of interactions with blood components, from the initial absorption of plasma proteins to the activation of cells and factors, and the contribution of these interactions to the coagulation cascade and thrombogenesis. Reference will be made to the testing requirements for medical devices in contact with blood, set out by International Standards in ISO 10993-4. Finally, we will review the techniques for improving microfluidic channel haemocompatibility through material surface modifications-including bioactive and biopassive coatings-and future directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenyth Newman
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Eden Tech, Paris, France
| | - Audrey Leclerc
- Institut Européen des Membranes, IEM, UMR 5635, Univ Montpellier, ENSCM, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, France
- École Nationale Supérieure des Ingénieurs en Arts Chimiques et Technologiques, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - William Arditi
- Eden Tech, Paris, France
- Centrale Supélec, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Silvia Tea Calzuola
- Eden Tech, Paris, France
- UMR7648—LadHyx, Ecole Polytechnique, Palaiseau, France
| | - Thomas Feaugas
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, Università degli Studi di Milano-Bicocca, Milan, Italy
- Eden Tech, Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Mikhael Bechelany
- Institut Européen des Membranes, IEM, UMR 5635, Univ Montpellier, ENSCM, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Place Eugène Bataillon, Montpellier, France
- Gulf University for Science and Technology (GUST), Mubarak Al-Abdullah, Kuwait
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32
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Pillai S, Kwan JC, Yaziji F, Yu H, Tran SD. Mapping the Potential of Microfluidics in Early Diagnosis and Personalized Treatment of Head and Neck Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:3894. [PMID: 37568710 PMCID: PMC10417175 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15153894] [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: 06/29/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Head and neck cancers (HNCs) account for ~4% of all cancers in North America and encompass cancers affecting the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, sinuses, nasal cavity, and salivary glands. The anatomical complexity of the head and neck region, characterized by highly perfused and innervated structures, presents challenges in the early diagnosis and treatment of these cancers. The utilization of sub-microliter volumes and the unique phenomenon associated with microscale fluid dynamics have facilitated the development of microfluidic platforms for studying complex biological systems. The advent of on-chip microfluidics has significantly impacted the diagnosis and treatment strategies of HNC. Sensor-based microfluidics and point-of-care devices have improved the detection and monitoring of cancer biomarkers using biological specimens like saliva, urine, blood, and serum. Additionally, tumor-on-a-chip platforms have allowed the creation of patient-specific cancer models on a chip, enabling the development of personalized treatments through high-throughput screening of drugs. In this review, we first focus on how microfluidics enable the development of an enhanced, functional drug screening process for targeted treatment in HNCs. We then discuss current advances in microfluidic platforms for biomarker sensing and early detection, followed by on-chip modeling of HNC to evaluate treatment response. Finally, we address the practical challenges that hinder the clinical translation of these microfluidic advances.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Simon D. Tran
- McGill Craniofacial Tissue Engineering and Stem Cell Laboratory, Faculty of Dental Medicine and Oral Health Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, QC H3A 0C7, Canada; (S.P.); (J.C.K.); (F.Y.); (H.Y.)
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33
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Filippidou MK, Chatzandroulis S. Microfluidic Devices for Heavy Metal Ions Detection: A Review. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:1520. [PMID: 37630055 PMCID: PMC10456312 DOI: 10.3390/mi14081520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The contamination of air, water and soil by heavy metal ions is one of the most serious problems plaguing the environment. These metal ions are characterized by a low biodegradability and high chemical stability and can affect humans and animals, causing severe diseases. In addition to the typical analysis methods, i.e., liquid chromatography (LC) or spectrometric methods (i.e., atomic absorption spectroscopy, AAS), there is a need for the development of inexpensive, easy-to-use, sensitive and portable devices for the detection of heavy metal ions at the point of interest. To this direction, microfluidic and lab-on-chip (LOC) devices fabricated with novel materials and scalable microfabrication methods have been proposed as a promising approach to realize such systems. This review focuses on the recent advances of such devices used for the detection of the most important toxic metal ions, namely, lead (Pb), mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd) and chromium (Cr) ions. Particular emphasis is given to the materials, the fabrication methods and the detection methods proposed for the realization of such devices in order to provide a complete overview of the existing technology advances as well as the limitations and the challenges that should be addressed in order to improve the commercial uptake of microfluidic and LOC devices in environmental monitoring applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Stavros Chatzandroulis
- Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology, NCSR “Demokritos”, 15341 Aghia Paraskevi, Greece;
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34
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Robinson JP, Ostafe R, Iyengar SN, Rajwa B, Fischer R. Flow Cytometry: The Next Revolution. Cells 2023; 12:1875. [PMID: 37508539 PMCID: PMC10378642 DOI: 10.3390/cells12141875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Unmasking the subtleties of the immune system requires both a comprehensive knowledge base and the ability to interrogate that system with intimate sensitivity. That task, to a considerable extent, has been handled by an iterative expansion in flow cytometry methods, both in technological capability and also in accompanying advances in informatics. As the field of fluorescence-based cytomics matured, it reached a technological barrier at around 30 parameter analyses, which stalled the field until spectral flow cytometry created a fundamental transformation that will likely lead to the potential of 100 simultaneous parameter analyses within a few years. The simultaneous advance in informatics has now become a watershed moment for the field as it competes with mature systematic approaches such as genomics and proteomics, allowing cytomics to take a seat at the multi-omics table. In addition, recent technological advances try to combine the speed of flow systems with other detection methods, in addition to fluorescence alone, which will make flow-based instruments even more indispensable in any biological laboratory. This paper outlines current approaches in cell analysis and detection methods, discusses traditional and microfluidic sorting approaches as well as next-generation instruments, and provides an early look at future opportunities that are likely to arise.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Paul Robinson
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Weldon School of Biomedical Engineering, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Raluca Ostafe
- Molecular Evolution, Protein Engineering and Production Facility (PI4D), Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | | | - Bartek Rajwa
- Bindley Bioscience Center, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Rainer Fischer
- Department of Comparative Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
- Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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35
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Stutzmann C, Peng J, Wu Z, Savoie C, Sirois I, Thibault P, Wheeler AR, Caron E. Unlocking the potential of microfluidics in mass spectrometry-based immunopeptidomics for tumor antigen discovery. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2023; 3:100511. [PMID: 37426761 PMCID: PMC10326451 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2023.100511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
The identification of tumor-specific antigens (TSAs) is critical for developing effective cancer immunotherapies. Mass spectrometry (MS)-based immunopeptidomics has emerged as a powerful tool for identifying TSAs as physical molecules. However, current immunopeptidomics platforms face challenges in measuring low-abundance TSAs in a precise, sensitive, and reproducible manner from small needle-tissue biopsies (<1 mg). Inspired by recent advances in single-cell proteomics, microfluidics technology offers a promising solution to these limitations by providing improved isolation of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-associated peptides with higher sensitivity. In this context, we highlight the challenges in sample preparation and the rationale for developing microfluidics technology in immunopeptidomics. Additionally, we provide an overview of promising microfluidic methods, including microchip pillar arrays, valved-based systems, droplet microfluidics, and digital microfluidics, and discuss the latest research on their application in MS-based immunopeptidomics and single-cell proteomics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jiaxi Peng
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Zhaoguan Wu
- CHU Sainte Justine Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | | | | | - Pierre Thibault
- Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Chemistry, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Aaron R. Wheeler
- Department of Chemistry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Etienne Caron
- CHU Sainte Justine Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Cellular Biology, University of Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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36
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Mumtaz Z, Rashid Z, Ali A, Arif A, Ameen F, AlTami MS, Yousaf MZ. Prospects of Microfluidic Technology in Nucleic Acid Detection Approaches. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:584. [PMID: 37366949 DOI: 10.3390/bios13060584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Conventional diagnostic techniques are based on the utilization of analyte sampling, sensing and signaling on separate platforms for detection purposes, which must be integrated to a single step procedure in point of care (POC) testing devices. Due to the expeditious nature of microfluidic platforms, the trend has been shifted toward the implementation of these systems for the detection of analytes in biochemical, clinical and food technology. Microfluidic systems molded with substances such as polymers or glass offer the specific and sensitive detection of infectious and noninfectious diseases by providing innumerable benefits, including less cost, good biological affinity, strong capillary action and simple process of fabrication. In the case of nanosensors for nucleic acid detection, some challenges need to be addressed, such as cellular lysis, isolation and amplification of nucleic acid before its detection. To avoid the utilization of laborious steps for executing these processes, advances have been deployed in this perspective for on-chip sample preparation, amplification and detection by the introduction of an emerging field of modular microfluidics that has multiple advantages over integrated microfluidics. This review emphasizes the significance of microfluidic technology for the nucleic acid detection of infectious and non-infectious diseases. The implementation of isothermal amplification in conjunction with the lateral flow assay greatly increases the binding efficiency of nanoparticles and biomolecules and improves the limit of detection and sensitivity. Most importantly, the deployment of paper-based material made of cellulose reduces the overall cost. Microfluidic technology in nucleic acid testing has been discussed by explicating its applications in different fields. Next-generation diagnostic methods can be improved by using CRISPR/Cas technology in microfluidic systems. This review concludes with the comparison and future prospects of various microfluidic systems, detection methods and plasma separation techniques used in microfluidic devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zilwa Mumtaz
- KAM School of Life Sciences, Forman Christian College University, Ferozpur Road, Lahore 54600, Pakistan
| | - Zubia Rashid
- Pure Health Laboratory, Mafraq Hospital, Abu Dhabi 1227788, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ashaq Ali
- State Key Laboratory of Virology, Center for Biosafety MegaScience, Wuhan Institute of Virology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430071, China
| | - Afsheen Arif
- Karachi Institute of Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering (KIBGE), University of Karachi, Karachi 75270, Pakistan
| | - Fuad Ameen
- Department of Botany and Microbiology, College of Science, King Suad University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona S AlTami
- Biology Department, College of Science, Qassim University, Burydah 52571, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Zubair Yousaf
- KAM School of Life Sciences, Forman Christian College University, Ferozpur Road, Lahore 54600, Pakistan
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37
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Esene JE, Nasman PR, Akuoko Y, Tahir A, Woolley AT. Past, current, and future roles of 3D printing in the development of capillary electrophoresis systems. Trends Analyt Chem 2023; 162:117032. [PMID: 37008739 PMCID: PMC10062378 DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2023.117032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
Abstract
3D printing, an additive manufacturing technology, has made significant inroads into improving systems for bioanalysis in recent years. This approach is particularly powerful due to the ease and flexibility in rapidly creating novel and complex designs for analytical applications. As such, 3D printing offers an emerging technology for creating systems for electrophoretic analysis. Here, we review 3D printing work on improving and miniaturizing capillary electrophoresis (CE), emphasizing publications from 2019‒2022. We describe enabling uses of 3D printing in interfacing upstream sample preparation or downstream detection with CE. Recent developments in miniaturized CE enabled by 3D printing are also elaborated, including key areas where 3D printing could further improve over the current state-of-the-art. Lastly, we highlight promising future trends for using 3D printing in miniaturizing CE and the significant potential for innovative advancements. 3D printing is poised to play a key role in moving forward miniaturized CE in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joule E. Esene
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Parker R. Nasman
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Yesman Akuoko
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Anum Tahir
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
| | - Adam T. Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602, USA
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38
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Mitrogiannopoulou AM, Tselepi V, Ellinas K. Polymeric and Paper-Based Lab-on-a-Chip Devices in Food Safety: A Review. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:986. [PMID: 37241610 PMCID: PMC10223399 DOI: 10.3390/mi14050986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Food quality and safety are important to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses. Currently, laboratory scale analysis, which takes several days to complete, is the main way to ensure the absence of pathogenic microorganisms in a wide range of food products. However, new methods such as PCR, ELISA, or even accelerated plate culture tests have been proposed for the rapid detection of pathogens. Lab-on-chip (LOC) devices and microfluidics are miniaturized devices that can enable faster, easier, and at the point of interest analysis. Nowadays, methods such as PCR are often coupled with microfluidics, providing new LOC devices that can replace or complement the standard methods by offering highly sensitive, fast, and on-site analysis. This review's objective is to present an overview of recent advances in LOCs used for the identification of the most prevalent foodborne and waterborne pathogens that put consumer health at risk. In particular, the paper is organized as follows: first, we discuss the main fabrication methods of microfluidics as well as the most popular materials used, and then we present recent literature examples for LOCs used for the detection of pathogenic bacteria found in water and other food samples. In the final section, we summarize our findings and also provide our point of view on the challenges and opportunities in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kosmas Ellinas
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, School of the Environment, University of the Aegean, Ierou Lochou & Makrygianni St, GR 81400 Myrina, Greece
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Do TD, Pham UT, Nguyen LP, Nguyen TM, Bui CN, Oliver S, Pham P, Tran TQ, Hoang BT, Pham MTH, Pham DTN, Nguyen DT. Fabrication of a Low-Cost Microfluidic Device for High-Throughput Drug Testing on Static and Dynamic Cancer Spheroid Culture Models. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13081394. [PMID: 37189495 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13081394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Drug development is a complex and expensive process from new drug discovery to product approval. Most drug screening and testing rely on in vitro 2D cell culture models; however, they generally lack in vivo tissue microarchitecture and physiological functionality. Therefore, many researchers have used engineering methods, such as microfluidic devices, to culture 3D cells in dynamic conditions. In this study, a simple and low-cost microfluidic device was fabricated using Poly Methyl Methacrylate (PMMA), a widely available material, and the total cost of the completed device was USD 17.75. Dynamic and static cell culture examinations were applied to monitor the growth of 3D cells. α-MG-loaded GA liposomes were used as the drug to test cell viability in 3D cancer spheroids. Two cell culture conditions (i.e., static and dynamic) were also used in drug testing to simulate the effect of flow on drug cytotoxicity. Results from all assays showed that with the velocity of 0.005 mL/min, cell viability was significantly impaired to nearly 30% after 72 h in a dynamic culture. This device is expected to improve in vitro testing models, reduce and eliminate unsuitable compounds, and select more accurate combinations for in vivo testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tung Dinh Do
- Saint Paul General Hospital, No. 12, Chu Van An St., Ba Dinh Dist, Ha Noi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Uyen Thu Pham
- Institute for Tropical Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Linh Phuong Nguyen
- School of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, 1 Ton That Tung St., Dong Da Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Trang Minh Nguyen
- Institute for Tropical Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Cuong Nguyen Bui
- Hung Yen University of Technology and Education (UTEHY), 39A St., Khoai Chau Dist., Hung Yen 17000, Vietnam
| | - Susan Oliver
- Centre for Advanced Macromolecular Design and Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, School of Chemical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Phuong Pham
- Centre for Advanced Macromolecular Design and Australian Centre for NanoMedicine, School of Chemical Engineering, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Toan Quoc Tran
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
- Institute of Natural Products Chemistry, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Bich Thi Hoang
- Institute of Natural Products Chemistry, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Minh Thi Hong Pham
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
- Institute of Natural Products Chemistry, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
| | - Dung Thuy Nguyen Pham
- Institute of Applied Technology and Sustainable Development, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
- Faculty of Environmental and Food Engineering, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Ho Chi Minh City 70000, Vietnam
| | - Duong Thanh Nguyen
- Institute for Tropical Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
- Graduate University of Science and Technology, Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 18 Hoang Quoc Viet St., Cau Giay Dist., Hanoi 10000, Vietnam
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40
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Tsai HF, Podder S, Chen PY. Microsystem Advances through Integration with Artificial Intelligence. MICROMACHINES 2023; 14:826. [PMID: 37421059 DOI: 10.3390/mi14040826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/09/2023]
Abstract
Microfluidics is a rapidly growing discipline that involves studying and manipulating fluids at reduced length scale and volume, typically on the scale of micro- or nanoliters. Under the reduced length scale and larger surface-to-volume ratio, advantages of low reagent consumption, faster reaction kinetics, and more compact systems are evident in microfluidics. However, miniaturization of microfluidic chips and systems introduces challenges of stricter tolerances in designing and controlling them for interdisciplinary applications. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) have brought innovation to microfluidics from design, simulation, automation, and optimization to bioanalysis and data analytics. In microfluidics, the Navier-Stokes equations, which are partial differential equations describing viscous fluid motion that in complete form are known to not have a general analytical solution, can be simplified and have fair performance through numerical approximation due to low inertia and laminar flow. Approximation using neural networks trained by rules of physical knowledge introduces a new possibility to predict the physicochemical nature. The combination of microfluidics and automation can produce large amounts of data, where features and patterns that are difficult to discern by a human can be extracted by machine learning. Therefore, integration with AI introduces the potential to revolutionize the microfluidic workflow by enabling the precision control and automation of data analysis. Deployment of smart microfluidics may be tremendously beneficial in various applications in the future, including high-throughput drug discovery, rapid point-of-care-testing (POCT), and personalized medicine. In this review, we summarize key microfluidic advances integrated with AI and discuss the outlook and possibilities of combining AI and microfluidics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsieh-Fu Tsai
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Keelung City 204, Taiwan
- Center for Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan
| | - Soumyajit Podder
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan
| | - Pin-Yuan Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Chang Gung University, Taoyuan City 333, Taiwan
- Department of Neurosurgery, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Keelung, Keelung City 204, Taiwan
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41
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Huang C, Sanaei F, Verdurmen WPR, Yang F, Ji W, Walboomers XF. The Application of Organs-on-a-Chip in Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research. J Dent Res 2023; 102:364-375. [PMID: 36726271 PMCID: PMC10031637 DOI: 10.1177/00220345221145555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The current development of microfluidics-based microphysiological systems (MPSs) will rapidly lead to a paradigm shift from traditional static 2-dimensional cell cultivation towards organized tissue culture within a dynamic cellular milieu. Especially organs-on-a-chip (OoCs) can very precisely re-create the mechanical and unique anatomical structures of the oral environment. This review provides an introduction to such technology, from commonly used chip materials and fabrication methods to the application of OoC in in vitro culture. OoCs are advantageous because of their small-scaled culture environment, the highly controlled dynamic experimental conditions, and the likeness to the in vivo structure. We specifically focus on current chip designs in dental, oral, and craniofacial (DOC) research. Also, future perspectives are discussed, like model standardization and the development of integrated platforms with advanced read-out functionality. By doing so, it will be possible for OoCs to serve as an alternative for animal testing and to develop highly predictive human models for clinical experiments and even personalized medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Huang
- Department of Dentistry-Regenerative Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - F Sanaei
- Department of Dentistry-Regenerative Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - W P R Verdurmen
- Department of Biochemistry, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - F Yang
- Department of Dentistry-Regenerative Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - W Ji
- The State Key Laboratory Breeding Base of Basic Science of Stomatology (Hubei-MOST) & Key Laboratory of Oral Biomedicine Ministry of Education, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Department of Implantology, School & Hospital of Stomatology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - X F Walboomers
- Department of Dentistry-Regenerative Biomaterials, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences (RIMLS), Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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42
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Biosensor integrated brain-on-a-chip platforms: Progress and prospects in clinical translation. Biosens Bioelectron 2023; 225:115100. [PMID: 36709589 DOI: 10.1016/j.bios.2023.115100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 01/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Because of the brain's complexity, developing effective treatments for neurological disorders is a formidable challenge. Research efforts to this end are advancing as in vitro systems have reached the point that they can imitate critical components of the brain's structure and function. Brain-on-a-chip (BoC) was first used for microfluidics-based systems with small synthetic tissues but has expanded recently to include in vitro simulation of the central nervous system (CNS). Defining the system's qualifying parameters may improve the BoC for the next generation of in vitro platforms. These parameters show how well a given platform solves the problems unique to in vitro CNS modeling (like recreating the brain's microenvironment and including essential parts like the blood-brain barrier (BBB)) and how much more value it offers than traditional cell culture systems. This review provides an overview of the practical concerns of creating and deploying BoC systems and elaborates on how these technologies might be used. Not only how advanced biosensing technologies could be integrated with BoC system but also how novel approaches will automate assays and improve point-of-care (PoC) diagnostics and accurate quantitative analyses are discussed. Key challenges providing opportunities for clinical translation of BoC in neurodegenerative disorders are also addressed.
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43
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Koh I, Hagiwara M. Gradient to sectioning CUBE workflow for the generation and imaging of organoids with localized differentiation. Commun Biol 2023; 6:299. [PMID: 36944757 PMCID: PMC10030548 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-04694-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Advancements in organoid culture have led to various in vitro mini-organs that mimic native tissues in many ways. Yet, the bottleneck remains to generate complex organoids with body axis patterning, as well as keeping the orientation of organoids during post-experiment analysis processes. Here, we present a workflow for culturing organoids with morphogen gradient using a CUBE culture device, followed by sectioning samples with the CUBE to retain information on gradient direction. We show that hiPSC spheroids cultured with two separated differentiation media on opposing ends of the CUBE resulted in localized expressions of the respective differentiation markers, in contrast to homogeneous distribution of markers in controls. We also describe the processes for cryo and paraffin sectioning of spheroids in CUBE to retain gradient orientation information. This workflow from gradient culture to sectioning with CUBE can provide researchers with a convenient tool to generate increasingly complex organoids and study their developmental processes in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Koh
- Cluster for Pioneering Research, RIKEN, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan
| | - Masaya Hagiwara
- Cluster for Pioneering Research, RIKEN, Saitama, 351-0198, Japan.
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44
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A Preliminary Experimental Study of Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-To-PDMS Bonding Using Oxygen Plasma Treatment Incorporating Isopropyl Alcohol. Polymers (Basel) 2023; 15:polym15041006. [PMID: 36850290 PMCID: PMC9958961 DOI: 10.3390/polym15041006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) is a widely used material for soft lithography and microfabrication. PDMS exhibits some promising properties suitable for building microfluidic devices; however, bonding PDMS to PDMS and PDMS to other materials for multilayer structures in microfluidic devices is still challenging due to the hydrophobic nature of the surface of PDMS. This paper presents a simple yet effective method to increase the bonding strength for PDMS-to-PDMS using isopropyl alcohol (IPA). The experiment was carried out to evaluate the bonding strength for both the natural-cured and the heat-cured PDMS layer. The results show the effectiveness of our approach in terms of the improved irreversible bonding strength, up to 3.060 MPa, for the natural-cured PDMS and 1.373 MPa for the heat-cured PDMS, while the best bonding strength with the existing method in literature is 1.9 MPa. The work is preliminary because the underlying mechanism is only speculative and open for future research.
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45
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Han J, Park S, Kim JE, Park B, Hong Y, Lim JW, Jeong S, Son H, Kim HB, Seonwoo H, Jang KJ, Chung JH. Development of a Scaffold-on-a-Chip Platform to Evaluate Cell Infiltration and Osteogenesis on the 3D-Printed Scaffold for Bone Regeneration. ACS Biomater Sci Eng 2023; 9:968-977. [PMID: 36701173 DOI: 10.1021/acsbiomaterials.2c01367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Developing a scaffold for efficient and functional bone regeneration remains challenging. To accomplish this goal, a "scaffold-on-a-chip" device was developed as a platform to aid with the evaluation process. The device mimics a microenvironment experienced by a transplanted bone scaffold. The device contains a circular space at the center for scaffold insert and microfluidic channel that encloses the space. Such a design allows for monitoring of cell behavior at the blood-scaffold interphase. MC3T3-E1 cells were cultured with three different types of scaffold inserts to test its capability as an evaluation platform. Cellular behaviors, including migration, morphology, and osteogenesis with each scaffold, were analyzed through fluorescence images of live/dead assay and immunocytochemistry. Cellular behaviors, such as migration, morphology, and osteogenesis, were evaluated. The results revealed that our platform could effectively evaluate the osteoconductivity and osteoinductivity of scaffolds with various properties. In conclusion, our proposed platform is expected to replace current in vivo animal models as a highly relevant in vitro platform and can contribute to the fundamental study of bone regeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinsub Han
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.,Convergence Major in Global Smart Farm, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Sangbae Park
- Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Jae Eun Kim
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Byeongjoo Park
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Yeonggeol Hong
- Department of Bio-Systems Engineering, Institute of Smart Farm, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea
| | - Jae Woon Lim
- Department of Biosystems & Biomaterials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Seung Jeong
- Department of Biosystems & Biomaterials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hyunmok Son
- Department of Biosystems & Biomaterials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hong Bae Kim
- Department of Biosystems & Biomaterials Science and Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
| | - Hoon Seonwoo
- Department of Convergent Biosystems Engineering, College of Life Sciences and Natural Resources, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Korea.,Interdisciplinary Program in IT-Bio Convergence System, Sunchon National University, Suncheon 57922, Korea
| | - Kyoung-Je Jang
- Department of Bio-Systems Engineering, Institute of Smart Farm, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea.,Institute of Agriculture & Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju 52828, Korea
| | - Jong Hoon Chung
- Department of Biosystems Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.,Convergence Major in Global Smart Farm, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea.,Research Institute of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Korea
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46
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Akuoko Y, Nagliati HF, Millward CJ, Woolley AT. Improving droplet microfluidic systems for studying single bacteria growth. Anal Bioanal Chem 2023; 415:695-701. [PMID: 36469054 PMCID: PMC10501485 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-022-04459-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance remains a global threat with ~ 5 million deaths in 2019 alone and 10 million deaths projected every year by 2050. Current tools employed in the analysis of bacteria can be time inefficient, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. In this work, we develop a microfluidic setup capable of bacteria incubation and detection of growth in ~ 2 h. We fabricated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) microchips via soft lithography, enclosed microchannels by plasma bonding to glass, and utilized PDMS blocks for simplified connection of devices to a flow system. We generated uniform droplets enclosing zero, one or two bacteria within our devices, and incubated droplet-encapsulated bacteria with 100 × lower concentrations of a fluorescence probe of bacterial growth compared to prior work. We assessed bacterial growth via laser induced fluorescence after room temperature incubation for 2 h and obtained a range of signals corresponding to droplets with or without bacteria. Our devices allow for online droplet incubation, monitoring, detection, and tracking. Developing microfluidic chips for single bacteria studies will improve the analysis and treatment of antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yesman Akuoko
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Heitor F Nagliati
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Calton J Millward
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA
| | - Adam T Woolley
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, 84602, USA.
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47
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Wanigasekara J, Cullen PJ, Bourke P, Tiwari B, Curtin JF. Advances in 3D culture systems for therapeutic discovery and development in brain cancer. Drug Discov Today 2023; 28:103426. [PMID: 36332834 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2022.103426] [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: 07/14/2022] [Revised: 10/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This review focuses on recent advances in 3D culture systems that promise more accurate therapeutic models of the glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) tumor microenvironment (TME), such as the unique anatomical, cellular, and molecular features evident in human GBM. The key components of a GBM TME are outlined, including microbiomes, vasculature, extracellular matrix (ECM), infiltrating parenchymal and peripheral immune cells and molecules, and chemical gradients. 3D culture systems are evaluated against 2D culture systems and in vivo animal models. The main 3D culture techniques available are compared, with an emphasis on identifying key gaps in knowledge for the development of suitable platforms to accurately model the intricate components of the GBM TME.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janith Wanigasekara
- BioPlasma Research Group, School of Food Science and Environmental Health, Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Environmental Sustainability and Health Institute (ESHI), Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Department of Food Biosciences, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin, Ireland; FOCAS Research Institute, Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
| | - Patrick J Cullen
- School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Paula Bourke
- School of Biosystems and Food Engineering, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Brijesh Tiwari
- Department of Food Biosciences, Teagasc Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin, Ireland
| | - James F Curtin
- BioPlasma Research Group, School of Food Science and Environmental Health, Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Environmental Sustainability and Health Institute (ESHI), Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; FOCAS Research Institute, Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland; Faculty of Engineering and Built Environment, Technological University Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
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48
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Zolti O, Suganthan B, Ramasamy RP. Lab-on-a-Chip Electrochemical Biosensors for Foodborne Pathogen Detection: A Review of Common Standards and Recent Progress. BIOSENSORS 2023; 13:bios13020215. [PMID: 36831981 PMCID: PMC9954316 DOI: 10.3390/bios13020215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Foodborne pathogens are an important diagnostic target for the food, beverage, and health care industries due to their prevalence and the adverse effects they can cause to public health, food safety, and the economy. The standards that determine whether a given type of food is fit for consumption are set by governments and must be taken into account when designing a new diagnostic tool such as a biosensor platform. In order to meet these stringent detection limits, cost, and reliability standards, recent research has been focused on developing lab-on-a-chip-based approaches for detection devices that use microfluidic channels and platforms. The microfluidics-based devices are designed, developed, and used in different ways to achieve the established common standards for food pathogen testing that enable high throughput, rapid detection, low sample volume, and minimal pretreatment procedures. Combining microfluidic approaches with electrochemical biosensing could offer affordable, portable, and easy to use devices for food pathogen diagnostics. This review presents an analysis of the established common standards and the recent progress made in electrochemical sensors toward the development of future lab-on-a-chip devices that will aid 'collection-to-detection' using a single method and platform.
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49
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Li J, Cui Y, Xie Q, Jiang T, Xin S, Liu P, Zhou T, Li Q. Ultraportable Flow Cytometer Based on an All-Glass Microfluidic Chip. Anal Chem 2023; 95:2294-2302. [PMID: 36654498 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.2c03984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
The flow cytometer has become a powerful and widely accepted measurement device in both biological studies and clinical diagnostics. The application of the flow cytometer in emerging point-of-care scenarios, such as instant detection in remote areas and emergency diagnosis, requires a significant reduction in physical dimension, cost, and power consumption. This requirement promotes studies to develop portable flow cytometers, mostly based on the utilization of polymer microfluidic chips. However, due to the relatively poor optical performance of polymer materials, existing microfluidic flow cytometers are incapable of accurate blood analysis, such as the four-part leukocyte differential count, which is necessary to monitor the immune system and to assess the risk of allergic inflammation or viral infection. To address this issue, an ultraportable flow cytometer based on an all-glass microfluidic chip (AG-UFCM) has been developed in this study. Compared with that of a typical commercial flow cytometer (BD FACSAria III), the volume of the AG-UFCM was reduced by 90 times (from 720 to 8 L). A two-step laser processing was employed to fabricate an all-glass microfluidic chip with a surface roughness of less than 1 nm, significantly improving the optical performance of on-chip micro-lens. The signal-to-noise ratio was enhanced by 3 dB, compared with that of polymer materials. For the first time, a four-part leukocyte differential count based on single fluorescence staining was realized using a miniaturized flow cytometer, laying a foundation for the point-of-care testing of miniaturized flow cytometers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiayu Li
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
| | - Yuhan Cui
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
| | - Qiucheng Xie
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
| | - Tao Jiang
- Shandong QianQianRuo Medical Technology Limited Company, Jinan250022, China
| | - Siyuan Xin
- Shandong QianQianRuo Medical Technology Limited Company, Jinan250022, China
| | - Peng Liu
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China.,Chongqing Innovation Center, Beijing Institute of Technology, Chongqing401120, China
| | - Tianfeng Zhou
- School of Medical Technology, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
| | - Qin Li
- School of Life Science, Beijing Institute of Technology, Beijing100081, China
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50
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Biocatalysis as a Green Approach for Synthesis of Iron Nanoparticles—Batch and Microflow Process Comparison. Catalysts 2023. [DOI: 10.3390/catal13010112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a growing need for production of iron particles due to their possible use in numerous systems (e.g., electrical, magnetic, catalytic, biological and others). Although severe reaction conditions and heavy solvents are frequently used in production of nanoparticles, green synthesis has arisen as an eco-friendly method that uses biological catalysts. Various precursors are combined with biological material (such as enzymes, herbal extracts, biomass, bacteria or yeasts) that contain chemicals from the main or secondary metabolism that can function as catalysts for production of nanoparticles. In this work, batch (“one-pot”) biosynthesis of iron nanoparticles is reviewed, as well as the possibilities of using microfluidic systems for continuous biosynthesis of iron nanoparticles, which could overcome the limitations of batch synthesis.
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