Integrated Microfluid Cartridge for POC Biofluid Diagnostics

Rapid and reliable nucleic acid assays are critical for diagnosing infectious diseases at the point of need, yet most systems rely on complex, expensive instrumentation and trained personnel. These requirements limit access to timely diagnostics in low-resource, remote, or decentralized settings. Many platforms typically require centrifuges, pneumatic systems, or multiple external components, thereby increasing cost and operational complexity. As a result, there is a need for a simple, portable, and user-friendly diagnostic solution that can deliver accurate results quickly without specialized equipment.

 

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a user-friendly microfluidic cartridge designed to improve the accuracy and affordability of diagnostic testing at the point of care. This integrated microfluidic cartridge combines sample preparation, multiplexing, and enables real-time analysis by working in tandem with a reader apparatus. There are no electrical or pneumatic components for sample processing, so all steps can be manually completed by an untrained user. The design is adaptable for range of diseases and diagnostic tests by modifying the reagents in the reaction chambers. The intended use is for untrained personnel in diverse environments or at home.

 

This technology features a fully integrated, disposable microfluidic cartridge enabling nucleic acid processing and amplification at the point of care without external pneumatic or mechanical equipment.

 

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