Integrated membrane sensor for rapid molecular detection

A system for concentrating charged molecules, the system comprising a pre-concentration unit comprising:

• a pre-concentration fluidic channel;
• an upstream ion exchange membrane and a downstream ion exchange membrane disposed along the pre-concentration fluidic channel;
• and
• a negatively charged electrode and a positively charged electrode coupled to a voltage—current source and configured to generate an electric field within the pre-concentration fluidic channel,
• wherein the charged molecules are concentrated within the pre-concentration fluidic channel at a location where opposing flow and electrophoretic forces are substantially equivalent.

A method for concentrating a charged molecule, the method comprising:

• introducing a pre-treated sample to a pre-concentration unit, wherein the pre-concentration unit comprises:
• a pre-concentration fluidic channel;
• an upstream ion exchange membrane and a downstream ion exchange membrane disposed along the pre-concentration fluidic channel;
• and
• a negatively charged electrode and a positively charged electrode coupled to a voltage—current source and configured to generate an electric field within the pre-concentration fluidic channel;
• and
• applying voltage to the pre-concentration unit,
• wherein the charged molecules are concentrated within the pre-concentration fluidic channel at a location where opposing flow and electrophoretic forces are substantially equivalent.