Azimi S.M., Balachandran W., Ahern J., Slijepcevic P., Newton C.
Brunel University, UK
Keywords: DNA chip, DNA extractor, magnetic bead, mixer
This paper presents a novel method of DNA extraction from whole blood using time varying magnetic field. The novelty of this chip is that both mixing and separation steps are performed in a single chamber in less than a minute with no need for extra microfluidic channels. In order to extract DNA from white blood cells, whole blood is mixed with lysis buffer containing superparamagnetic beads. The mixing chamber is sandwiched between two key-type planar coils. Time varying magnetic field is generated within the mixing chamber to create efficient mixing. This process distributes the magnetic beads both temporally and spatially to achieve the desired mixing effect. Once the white blood cells are lysed, the exposed DNA molecules attach themselves onto the functionalized surface of the magnetic beads. Finally, DNA-attached magnetic beads are attracted to the bottom of the chamber by activating the bottom electrode. DNA molecules are extracted from magnetic beads by washing and re-suspension processes. The extracted DNA output was verified using bench-top PCR and gel electrophoresis.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Nanotechnology 2008: Microsystems, Photonics, Sensors, Fluidics, Modeling, and Simulation – Technical Proceedings of the 2008 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 3
Published: June 1, 2008
Pages: 249 - 252
Industry sectors: Medical & Biotech | Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topic: Micro & Bio Fluidics, Lab-on-Chip
ISBN: 978-1-4200-8505-1