Self-sustained fluidic droplet cassette and system for biochemical assays

Abstract

A fluidic cartridge for biochemical assays includes a cartridge body defining a first droplet region and a second droplet region with a droplet restraining barrier therebetween. The droplet restraining barrier has a gap between the first and the second droplet regions. The fluidic cartridge also includes a first droplet dispensed in the first droplet region. The first droplet includes a plurality of magnetic particles dispersed therein. The fluidic cartridge also includes a second droplet disposed in the second droplet region. The plurality of magnetic particles are sufficiently small to be drawn through the gap between the first and second droplet regions when compelled by an applied magnetic field, and the first droplet is restrained by the restraining barrier while the plurality of magnetic particles are drawn through the gap. A biochemical assay system includes a stage adapted to receive a fluidic cartridge, and a magnetic control assembly that includes a magnet. The magnet of the magnetic control assembly is movable to direct motion of magnetic particles contained within the fluidic cartridge.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.