This invention is an assay device based on the common T-shaped microfluidic geometry to produce an array of unique gradients. The Assay Device with Tunable Array of Unique Steady-State Microfluidic Gradients contains two reservoir channels, an intersection point, a source and sink channel, an array of microchannels and a shared exit port. Within the device there are two gradients developed: one that forms along the length of the source channel and another within the perpendicular set of microchannels. The magnitude of the gradient intensity relies on the ratio of the two flow inlets without the use of valves or other mixers. Gradient intensities within the device can be easily programmed in order to conduct many distinct experiments simultaneously. Although there are many microfluidic devices that can generate gradients, this is the only device that can generate gradients across a broad spectrum of intensities by changing the ratio of the two flow inlets. Patent filed.
Background:
The development of artificial molecular gradients is an essential part of understanding fundamental physiological processes through research. Experimental platforms, like microfluidics devices mimic aspects of cellular microenvironments in order to understand how cells respond to gradients. Microfluidic gradient generators have many emerging applications in research which can increase our knowledge of simple physiological processes.
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Status: issued U.S. patent #9,409,173