MICROFLUIDIC DEVICES FOR THE RAPID AND AUTOMATED PROCESSING OF SAMPLE POPULATIONS

摘要

Microfluidic devices for the rapid and automated processing of sample populations are provided. Described are multiplexer tiplexer microfluidic devices configured to serially deliver a plurality of distinct sample populations to a sample processing element rapidly and automatically, without cross-contaminating the distinct sample populations. Also provided are microfluidic sample processing elements that can be used to rapidly and automatically manipulate and/or interrogate members of a sample population. The microfluidic devices can be used to improve the throughput and quality of experiments involving model organisms, such as C. elegans.

主权项

1. A multiplexer microfluidic device comprising:
(a) a main channel; (b) a plurality of sample reservoirs; (c) a plurality of inlet channels; and (d) a plurality of valves positioned along the inlet channels to regulate fluid flow through the inlet channels; wherein each inlet channel fluidly connects with the main channel to form an intersection; wherein each inlet channel fluidly connects a single sample reservoir to the main channel; wherein at least a first valve and a second valve are positioned along each fluid inlet channel to regulate fluid flow through the inlet channel, wherein the first valve and the second valve are independently operable, and wherein the first valve is positioned in proximity to the intersection of the inlet channel and the main channel; and wherein the plurality of valves in the device are configured such that operation of one or more of the plurality of valves selectively directs fluid flow through a predetermined inlet channel in the device.