Microfluidic Device to Maximize Capillary Force Driven Flows for Quantitative Single-Molecule DNA Analysis

초록

Microfluidics is flourishing due to its significant applications in life sciences and biomedical engineering. One of the key challenges in microfluidics is the manipulation and control of fluids within microscale channels. Capillary force-driven flows provide a potential solution to this challenge by eliminating the need for an external power source. Capillary force-driven flows are particularly useful for the reproducible and reliable quantitative analysis of single-molecule DNA. We have designed several microfluidic devices that employ capillary force to enhance the deposition of DNA molecules onto a positively charged glass surface from a sample solution. The optimization of specific dimensions within the microfluidic device resulted in increased efficiency of DNA deposition. Shortening the microchannel length reduced flow resistance and decreasing the microchannel height enhanced capillary force. Additionally, increasing the outlet reservoir capacity achieves mechanical equilibrium in situations where fluid flow is maximized. These optimizations served to maximize capillary force and improve DNA deposition on the glass surface. The developed device represents an ultra-sensitive platform for quantitative DNA analysis and rapid, accurate point-of-care testing with a minimum detection limit achieved. In conclusion, our work demonstrates the potential of capillary force-driven microfluidics for the reproducible and efficient manipulation of fluids within microscale channels.

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