Revolutionary Microfluidic Platform for NGS Sample Prep
A biotech startup customer specializing in hands-free sample-to-answer solutions that automate and miniaturize genomic protocols, approached Gener8 for the development of a novel disposable, low-cost, digital microfluidic electrowetting on diode (EWOD) platform for molecular sample prep protocols. The platform automates sample preparation protocols used for NGS library prep, synthetic biology, cell editing, and combinatorial chemistry.
Challenges
- Designing the layout of the cartridge to accommodate various reactions and the mixing of different reagents with the samples
- Ensuring precise delivery of a specific volume of reaction to defined locations over a complex electro-array for thermal cycling
- Creating channels within the cartridge that can accommodate sufficient volume for metering the reagents
- Incorporating on-cartridge storage for waste materials
- Protecting the EWOD (Electrowetting on Dielectric) system with a thin, hydrophobic membrane while maintaining tension for reusability
- Designing pneumatic connections on a manifold to facilitate the movement of fluids within the cartridge and interface with the overall system.
Solutions
- Stretching a membrane over the rib of polycarbonate and using an adhesive layer of PSA (Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive) for tension, then heat staking it to the cartridge
- Sealing the channels using laser technology and sonic welding
- Designing and implementing nine pneumatic connections on the manifold for fluid movement
- Selecting COC (Cyclic Olefin Copolymer) for the cartridge due to its inherent hydrophobic nature
- Connecting the cartridge to the manifold using elastomer gaskets that are compressed to form a seal
- Designing a custom motorized pipette system with a bank of solenoid valves on the manifold to provide precise volumetric fluid control
