Background
Microfluidic devices are a popular means of analyzing minute quantities of samples and feature high-throughput sampling capabilities and suitability for providing highly controlled microreactor environments; however, many types of microfluidic devices and related fabrication approaches can be costly and require great effort and time to produce.
Technology Description
This patented technology (US 8,580,161) describes ways of controlling fluid movement in microfluidic devices and microwell plates. Fluid movement is achieved by controlling gating, valving, and permeation using light-actuated compounds such as a spiropyran. Prototypes have been tested in the lab and we are looking for a licensee to develop and commercialize µfluidic devices in a wide variety of applications enabled by the underlying patent.
Features & Benefits
- Enables repatternable µfluidic valves and channels
- Provides for non-mechanical pumping of fluids
- Reduced fabrication cost
Applications
- POC blood diagnostics
- Biomarker detection
- Food pathogen testing
- PCR
- Many others!
Status
Patented US 8,580,161 B2