Fluid partitioning in multiple microchannels

Abstract

According to the present invention are disclosed a device (3) and a method for generating individual fluid samples (51) for multi-channel analysis, preferably in a diagnostic kit. A fluidic device (3), preferably a microfluidic device, has a plurality of fluidic channels (35). Fluid is transported in the fluid channel. The jumper channel (32) has a fluid inlet (33) and a fluid outlet (34). In use of said device (3), a method is carried out. According to the method, a sample channel is filled to a threshold (39) with sample fluid. A flushing fluid (gas or inert liquid) is then flushed through the sample-filled jumper channel, displacing the sample fluid with the flushing fluid. The inlet and outlet of the bridging channels are then closed and the sample fluid is pushed further into the sequence of channels (30, 31). Alternatively, a suitable pressure may be applied to the fluid such that the fluid is pushed into the sample channel. If it is desired to obtain multiple (time / space) independent sample plugs in the microchannel, the method steps are repeated in an appropriate manner. A series of longitudinally spaced individual sample fluid segments are thus created in each microchannel, separated from each other by a flushing segment.

Description

technical field [0001] The present invention pertains generally to the field of fluidic devices, and more specifically to microfluidic devices having several sample channels, wherein the content of the sample channels is analyzed, and even more specifically to the analysis of the sample channels of microfluidic devices Treatment of fluid content. Background technique [0002] In point-of-care and home care medical diagnostics, test cartridges are used to detect chemical and / or biochemical constituents in fluids. The fluid analyzed is typically a bodily fluid taken from a patient, such as a blood or urine sample. Currently there are only a very limited number of ingredients, ie one or a few ingredients, that can be tested by a single kit. More components from the same fluid source need to be detected, measured and analyzed simultaneously. It improves the convenience of use. However, currently in this case further kits have to be employed which are able to analyze further ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Further problems associated with multichannel microfluidic devices are cross-contamination and reagent carryover

This problem arises when several samples are passed through the channel in succession and the channel is not sufficiently cleaned between samples or the preceding sample fluid is not sufficiently diluted by the subsequent sample fluid in such a way that the analytical results are seriously affected

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