Highly-integrated, low-cost in-vitro diagnostic platform for miniaturized assay development

The paper describes a low-cost microfluidic platform with integrated micropumps and optical biosensor for the development of miniaturized assays for in-vitro diagnostic and point-of-care applications. The platform consists of disposable microfluidic cartridges incorporating all parts necessary for carrying out immunoassays (including reagents) as well as a readout instrument providing both the optical, fluorescence based readout and the electrical interface for pump control. The feasibility of the system for running immunoassays is demonstrated by a CRP and PSA based assay carried out completely inside such a cartridge.