Device incorporating a microfluidic chip for separating analyte from a sample

A device for separating an analyte from a fluid sample, the device comprising a cartridge having:

• a) a sample port for introducing the sample into the cartridge;
• b) a first flow path extending from the sample port;
• c) a microfluidic chip positioned in the first flow path, the microfluidic chip comprising a body having formed therein:
• i) an extraction chamber;
• ii) an inlet port in fluid communication with the extraction chamber;
• iii) an outlet port in fluid communication with the extraction chamber, wherein the inlet and outlet ports are positioned to permit fluid flow through the extraction chamber and out of the microfluidic chip;
• and
• iv) an array of microstructures, integrally formed with at least one wall of the extraction chamber and extending into the extraction chamber, for capturing the analyte from the sample as the sample flows through the extraction chamber and for subsequently releasing the captured analyte into an elution fluid as the elution fluid flows through the extraction chamber, wherein each of the microstructures has an aspect ratio of at least 2:1;
• d) a second flow path for eluting the captured analyte from the microfluidic chip, wherein the second flow path passes through the chip and diverges from the first flow path after passing through the chip;
• and
• e) at least one flow controller for directing the sample into the first flow path after the sample flows through the microfluidic chip and for directing the eluted analyte into the second flow path.