A disposable and multifunctional capsule for easy operation of microfluidic elastomer systems

Abstract

This is an author-produced version of a paper published in Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering. This paper has been peerreviewed but does not include the final publisher proof-corrections or journal pagination.Citation for the published paper: Thorslund S., Nguyen H., Läräng T., Barkefors I., Kreuger J. "A disposable and multifunctional capsule for easy operation of microfluidic elastomer systems" Journal of Micromechanics and Microengineering, 2011, 21(12) AbstractThe global lab-on-chip and microfluidics markets for cell-based assays have been predicted to grow considerably, as novel microfluidic systems enable cell biologists to perform in vitro experiments at an unprecedented level of experimental control. Nevertheless, microfluidic assays must in order to compete with conventional assays be made available at easily affordable costs, and in addition be made simple to operate for users having no previous experience with microfluidics. We have to this end developed a multifunctional microfluidic capsule that can be mass-produced at low costs in thermoplastic material. The capsule enables straightforward operation of elastomer inserts of optional design, here exemplified with insert designs for molecular gradient formation in microfluidic cell culture systems. The integrated macro-micro interface of the capsule ensures reliable connection of the elastomer fluidic structures to an external perfusion system. A separate compartment in the capsule filled with superabsorbent material is used for internal waste absorption. The capsule assembly process is made easy by integrated snap-fits, and samples within the closed capsule can be analyzed using both inverted and upright microscopes. Taken together, the capsule concept presented here could help accelerate the use of microfluidic-based biological assays in the life science sector.

Fibrin fragment E potentiates TGF-β-induced myofibroblast activation and recruitment

“…Migration in response to a stabile gradient of factors was assessed as previously described (28,29). In short, cells were seeded onto a gelatin coated 35 mm tissue culture dish (BD Falcon), allowed to attach and starved over night after which the microfluidic chamber was applied on top and a gradient generated using indicated factors in serum free medium.…”

A simple micropump based on a freeze-dried superabsorbent polymer for multiplex solution processing in disposable devices

“…Still, the microfluidic applications of SAPs are few. Previously, the liquid absorbing phenomena of SAP were used for sweat [ 24 ] and waste collection [ 25 ]. Recently, the swelling behaviour of the SAP has been used as a valve to regulate sweat flow in skin-mounted devices [ 26 ].…”

Absorbent-force-driven microflow cytometer

“…When the amount of absorbed water exceeds 60% of its absorbent capacity, relaxation plays a major role in the absorbency of SAPs [48]. Superabsorbent material has been widely used in various products, but has rarely been used in microfluidic chips [49,50]. In the past, superabsorbent material filled within a compartment in a multifunctional microfluidic capsule was used for internal waste absorption [49].…”

“…Superabsorbent material has been widely used in various products, but has rarely been used in microfluidic chips [49,50]. In the past, superabsorbent material filled within a compartment in a multifunctional microfluidic capsule was used for internal waste absorption [49]. On the other hand, in a pump less wearable microfluidic device for real time pH sweat monitoring, an absorbent fiber placed at the end of a flow channel was used to draw the sweat into the sensing area [50].…”