ANALYSIS BASED ON FLOW RESTRICTION

摘要

Disclosed are devices and methods for detecting the presence of a preselected analyte in a fluid sample. The invention provides a device comprising a solid substrate, typically on the order of a few millimeters thick and approximately a 0.2 to 2.0 centimeters square, microfabricated to define a sample inlet port (16A) and a mesoscale flow system. A sample is passed through the mesoscale flow system, and the restriction or blockage of flow through the flow system is detected as a positive indication of the presence of the analyte. The mesoscale flow system includes in one embodiment a primary sample flow channel (20) extending from the inlet port (16A); and a fractal region (40), in fluid communication with the flow channel (20), comprising bifurcations leading to plural secondary flow channels. Means may be provided in the device for inducing flow of a sample through the flow system. Means also may be provided for detecting analyte induced changes, in flow properties in the mesoscale flow system. The devices of the invention may be used in a wide range of applications, including the detection of cells or macromolecules, such as viruses.