IPTeL Tracking ID: MS-CE-2019-053
The invention is the development of a barrier-free assembly for rapid multiplex detection of analytes in a fluid. The device can be implemented as a point of care testing tool for disease diagnosis, environmental monitoring and contaminant screening in food and beverages.
BACKGROUND
Current method for multiplex detection in paper-based microfluidic devices (μPADs) require creation of hydrophobic barriers between test zones. Barriers offer several advantages such as less reagent consumption, multiple analyte detection, effective utilisation of membrane area, easy comparison of concentration among different analytes, and elimination of cross-mixing between rehydrated reagents. However, these barriers created using wax printing, inkjet printing, photolithography, or by chemical modification of paper require expensive machines and equipment. Further, the low print resolution in wax printing and inkjet printing, need of ultra clean room and skilled personnel in lithography techniques, reliance on UV exposure of impregnated photoresist, and susceptibility to background reaction in photolithography machines make the fabrication processes complex and cumbersome. In addition, flow rates through cellulosic membranes traditionally used in μPAD fabrication are slow and wicking fluid fronts push rehydrated reagents to the edges, causing non-uniform signal generation in the detection zones. Limited volumetric capacity of cellulosic membranes and its inability to handle certain emulsions restricts the volume and type of sample to be analyzed.
TECHNOLOGY
Multiplex detection in barrier-free devices is enabled by novel combinations of paper membranes of varying wicking characteristics. Our invention overcomes the limitations of conventional μPADs in the following manner:
- By eliminating the need of patterning hydrophobic barriers
- By enhancing flow rates and reducing the test time
- By facilitating uniform rehydration of dried reagents
- By handling large sample volumes of up to 1 ml
The invention has the potential to revolutionise the current standards of point of care diagnosis and on-site sample testing.
COMMERCIALISATION
IISc has filed a patent application for this invention at Indian Patent Office. Reach out to IPTeL as a commercial partner for licensing, collaboration and further development of this technology.