A Combined Fabrication and Instrumentation Platform for Sample Preparation. (June 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Guckenberger, David J.; Thomas, Peter C.; Rothbauer, Jacob; LaVanway, Alex J.; Anderson, Meghan; Gilson, Dan; Fawcett, Kevin; Berto, Tristan; Barrett, Kevin; Beebe, David J.; Berry, Scott M.
• Is Part Of: Journal of laboratory automation. Volume 19:Number 3(2014:Jun.)
• Page Start: 267
• Page End: 274
• Publication Date: 2014-06
• Subjects: fabrication -- microfluidics -- microtechnology -- lab-on-a-chip -- robotics and instrumentation -- engineering -- molecular biology -- automated biology; Medical laboratory technology -- Periodicals; Laboratories -- Equipment and supplies -- Periodicals; Diagnosis, Laboratory -- Periodicals; 616.075
• DOI: 10.1177/2211068213518312
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2211-0682

Abstract

While potentially powerful, access to molecular diagnostics is substantially limited in the developing world. Here we present an approach to reduced cost molecular diagnostic instrumentation that has the potential to empower developing world communities by reducing costs through streamlining the sample preparation process. In addition, this instrument is capable of producing its own consumable devices on demand, reducing reliance on assay suppliers. Furthermore, this instrument is designed with an "open" architecture, allowing users to visually observe the assay process and make modifications as necessary (as opposed to traditional "black box" systems). This open environment enables integration of microfluidic fabrication and viral RNA purification onto an easy-to-use modular system via the use of interchangeable trays. Here we employ this system to develop a protocol to fabricate microfluidic devices and then use these devices to isolate viral RNA from serum for the measurement of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) viral load. Results obtained from this method show significantly reduced error compared with similar nonautomated sample preparation processes.