Separation and analysis of samples bymicrofluidic free-flow electrophoresis

A microfluidic device for separation and analysis of microfluidic samples, the microfluidic device comprising:

• a separation channel;
• a first electrolyte channel configured to provide a flow of a first electrolyte solution, in use;
• and provided with a positive electrode at a downstream outlet of the first electrolyte channel;
• a second electrolyte channel configured to provide a flow of a second electrolyte solution, in use, and provided with a negative electrode at a downstream outlet of the second electrolyte channel;
• and
• wherein the flow of the first and second electrolyte solutions through the first and second electrolyte channels removes electrophoresis products and gas bubbles from the microfluidic device;
• wherein the operation of the positive and negative electrodes and the presence of the first and second electrolyte solutions provides a substantially homogenous electric field across the separation channel;
• and
• wherein the microfluidic device comprises a pressure source or a pump configured to cause the first electrolyte solution to flow in a downstream direction and/or the second electrolyte solution to flow in a downstream direction.