Real-time PCR in micro-channels

A system for performing real-time PCR in a microfluidic device, said system comprising:

• a microfluidic device comprising at least one channel configured to contain at least one test solution containing real-time PCR reagents and at least one carrier fluid;
• a thermal transfer element integral with or proximal to the microfluidic device, said thermal transfer element configured to thermocycle the test solution along the length of a defined section of the at least one channel, wherein the defined section of the channel has a uniform temperature at any one time during temperature cycles for performing real-time PCR in the test solution within said defined section;
• a source of illumination integral with or proximal to the microfluidic device and configured to illuminate the at least one channel;
• and
• a detector integral with or proximal to the microfluidic device, said detector configured to detect a fluorescent signal at a plurality of locations along said defined section of said at least one channel.