METHODS FOR DETECTING A BIOMARKER BY ALTERNATING CURRENT ELECTROKINETICS

摘要

Methods are described for detecting pathogens, infectious diseases, and physiological conditions by quantifying change of impedance over time of when a biological sample is applied onto a lab-on-a-chip. The lab-on-a-chip utilizes alternating-current electrokinetic (ACEK) phenomena such that molecules move or are carried in an electric field generated by the application of an electrical signal of predetermined magnitude and frequency to an electrode array of the lab-on-a-chip.

主权项

1. A method for detecting a biomarker in a sample, comprising:
functionalizing an electrode array by coating the electrode array with a coating material, the electrode array comprising a plurality of electrodes; applying the sample onto the electrode array; controlling, using a controller, an impedance read-out circuit to measure an initial value of an impedance of the electrode array when the sample is initially applied; controlling, using a controller, a signal generator coupled to the electrode array to generate an electrical signal and apply the electrical signal to the electrode array after the initial value of the impedance is measured, the electrical signal having a fixed magnitude and a fixed frequency; controlling, using the controller, the impedance read-out circuit to measure the impedance versus time of the electrode array for a predetermined period of time after the initial value of the impedance is measured; and calculating a change in the impedance versus time of the electrode array with respect to the initial value of the impedance.