Electrokinetic-based Microfluidic Universal Sample-Preparation (EMUS) Platform

Sample preparation has been recognized as the single most important challenge to be faced in the development of detect-to-warn (DTW) systems. Available commercial sample preparation technologies are expensive, slow, and require trained laboratory technicians and sophisticated laboratory equipment for operation. Addressing this need, we propose to design, fabricate, and demonstrate a general purpose Electrokinetic-based Microfluidic Universal Sample-preparation platform (EMUS) for rapid, automated, simultaneous extraction of nucleic acids and proteins from complex environmental samples. The EMUS platform will be build on CFDRC’s expertise and proprietary technology for continuous sorting of biological particles, reagent-less electrokinetic lysing of cells and active mixing enhanced bead-based extraction of nucleic acids from cell samples. The EMUS platform will also incorporate modules for the removal of chemical contaminants from cell samples using dielectrophoretic filtration and for separation and enrichment of proteins using microdialysis. Proof-of-concept during Phase I will be established by separating target cells from biological and particulate clutter in a continuous fashion, by removal of PCR inhibitors from samples using DEP filtration and by desalting of protein samples using microdialysis. During Phase II, the fully integrated EMUS platform will be tested against a myriad of complex environmental samples.