Reagent Molding Process for Point of Care Microfluidic Applications

Lyophilization is a critical process for stabilizing reagents in point-of-care (POC) diagnostics, effectively eliminating the need for cold chain storage and preventing liquid evaporation. While this technology is essential for developing robust field-deployable devices, current industry standards are limited to producing reagents in a single spherical geometry. For POC microfluidic devices, this creates challenges as spherical beads often dictate the thickness of the chips, limiting the ability to create low-profile or compact designs. To overcome this, manufacturers often utilize multiple small spheres, increasing fluidic complexity and manufacturing burdens. Consequently, existing commercial options fail to provide the design flexibility needed for next-generation, portable diagnostic tools.

 

Researchers at Arizona State University have developed a novel molding process to create freeze-dried reagents of any shape, which could be particularly relevant in low-profile microfluidic devices. The ability to create custom shapes simplifies device fabrication and reduces costly manufacturing work arounds. It also facilitates technological advancement to create thinner microfluidic chip architecture or accommodate any design requirements. The format is highly versatile, supporting a wide range of diagnostic applications, including molecular assays and immunoassays.

 

By overcoming the physical limitations of spherical reagents, this technology supports development for next-generation diagnostic platforms.