US 7,682,817 B2 · Microfluidic assay devices

Abstract

A microfluidic assay device for determining the presence or absence of an analyte within a fluid test sample is provided. The present invention provides a technique for achieving continuous flow in a microfluidic device by using at least one input channel, an analysis zone, and a plurality of wicking channels disposed about the perimeter of the analysis zone. In one embodiment, for example, the wicking channels extend radially from the analysis zone. As a result of the particular configuration of the microfluidic device, an assay may performed in a “single step” without the need for active forces, such as a pressure source, electrokinetic force, etc., to induce flow of the fluid test sample through the device. Likewise, flow rate is controlled so that the dwell time of the fluid test sample within the analysis zone is long enough to allow for the desired reactions and/or detection.

Claims25

Dependent claims

An assay device for detecting the presence or concentration of an analyte within a fluid test sample, said assay comprising:

an input channel;
an analysis zone in fluid communication with said input channel, said analysis zone defining a periphery, wherein said analysis zone serves as a location for detecting the analyte;
from 3 to about 500 microfluidic wicking channels extending radially from the periphery of said analysis zone, wherein the assay device is configured so that the fluid test sample is capable of flowing through said input channel and said analysis zone primarily via capillary action, and
an absorbent material positioned within all of the wicking channels.

1 more element

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Microfluidic assay devices

Life of this patent

Microfluidic assay devices

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims25