Reagent storage in microfluidic systems and related articles and methods

摘要

Fluidic devices and methods including those that provide storage and/or facilitate fluid handling of reagents are provided. Fluidic devices described herein may include channel segments positioned on two sides of an article, optionally connected by an intervening channel passing through the article. The channel segments may be used to store reagents in the device prior to first use by an end user. The stored reagents may include fluid plugs positioned in linear order so that during use, as fluids flow to a reaction site, they are delivered in a predetermined sequence. The specific geometries of the channel segments and the positions of the channel segments within the fluidic devices described herein may allow fluid reagents to be stored for extended periods of time without mixing, even during routine handling of the devices such as during shipping of the devices, and when the devices are subjected to physical shock or vibration.

主权项

1. A fluidic device comprising:
an article comprising a top outer surface a bottom outer surface, a thickness, a first microfluidic channel segment formed in the top outer surface of the article, and a second microfluidic channel segment formed in the bottom outer surface of the article; an intervening channel passing through the thickness of the article thereby connecting the first microfluidic channel segment formed in the top outer surface of the article and the second microfluidic channel segment formed in the bottom outer surface of the article; a first fluid reagent stored in at least a portion of the first microfluidic channel segment, the second microfluidic channel segment, or the intervening channel; a second fluid reagent stored in at least a portion of the first microfluidic channel segment, the second microfluidic channel segment, or the intervening channel; a fluid plug positioned between, and immiscible with, the first and second fluid reagents, wherein the fluid plug contains a gas; an inlet in fluid communication with the first and second microfluidic channel segments; an outlet in fluid communication with the first and second microfluidic channel segments; a fluid-tight seal covering the inlet; and a fluid-tight seal covering the outlet.