Microfluidic networks for performing assays

摘要

Disclosed is a device for detecting an analyte, comprising: a) a cartridge having: a microfluidic channel including an inlet and a detection region in fluid communication with the inlet; b) a microfluidic flow path having an at least partially deformable wall and in fluid communication with the detection region of the channel; and c) a cap having: a sealing member configured to seal with the inlet and form a fluid circuit including the inlet, the microfluidic channel and the microfluidic flow path. Also disclosed is a method comprising: a) introducing a liquid sample into an inlet of a microfluidic channel thereby forming a contiguous liquid slug enclosed by the channel and bounded at a first end by a transport fluid, the liquid sample comprising multiple particles, b) sealing a sealing member of a cap with the inlet and thereby forming a fluid circuit such that the transport fluid provides fluid communication between the first and second ends of the liquid slug, c) forming a mixture comprising at least a portion of the liquid sample and an optical label present within the microfluidic channel by applying a differential pressure to the first and second ends of the liquid slug via the transport fluid and thereby moving the liquid slug within the fluid circuit, d) forming multiple complexes, each complex comprising one of the multiple particles and at least one of the optical labels, and e) detecting complexes present within a subset of the mixture.