Microfluidic Devices for Droplet Analysis

The technology provides microfluidic devices and methods that analyze droplet signals using mask-patterned passages and a detector.
Problem:
Droplet-based assays can generate large numbers of micro-scale reaction compartments. Analyzing outputs from these droplets can require bulky and expensive detection hardware. Monitoring multiple channels can also add optical and fluid-control complexity. A simpler way to recover weak signals from many droplets is needed.
Solution:
The technology uses mask-patterned passages in a microfluidic channel to modulate signals from droplets as they pass. A detector captures the resulting signals for analysis. Different passages can use different mask patterns to distinguish concurrent signals. The technology also supports methods for passing droplets, modulating their signals, and detecting them.
Technology:
The technology includes a substrate, a microfluidic channel with multiple passages, and a detector. Each passage has signal-emitting and signal-dampening portions that form a binary mask pattern of at least 100 bits. The signals can include fluorescence, magnetic, dielectric, or ultrasound signals. Some embodiments also include an illuminator, optical filters, and signal correlation circuitry.
Advantages:

• Recovers weak droplet signals through mask-based modulation
• Supports simultaneous monitoring of multiple passages with one detector
• Reduces reliance on bulky optical hardware
• Accommodates multiple signal types and wavelengths

Applications:

• Droplet Assays: The technology analyzes signals from droplets flowing through multiple mask-patterned passages.
• Multiplexed Fluorescence Analysis: The technology separates fluorescence signals using patterned passages, photodetection, and optional optical filters.
• Point-of-Care Testing: The technology supports portable droplet analysis without lenses or sophisticated fluid flow control.
• Analyte Detection: The technology analyzes droplets containing beads, cells, pathogens, DNA, RNA, nucleic acids, or pollutants.

Intellectual Property:

• US 10,473,590

Stage of Development:

• Prototype

Desired Partnerships:

• Licensing
• Research Collaboration

Reference Media:

• Muluneh, M. et al.; Lab Chip 2014 Dec 21; 14(24): 4638.

Design and implementation of a miniaturized, multichannel platform to read-out fluorescence droplet-based assays. a. The chip consists of four components, integrated droplet generators, a side-illuminator, a mask, and an optical detection system. Here, the top view is shown. b. A cross-sectional schematic of the chip. c. An example of a 105 bit long mask pattern, and the corresponding amplitude modulated signal Vd from a passing droplet. d. A photograph of the device, which is roughly the size of a cell phone (10 × 5 × 2 cm3).
Docket: 14-7166