Rapid integrated biosensor for multiplexed immunoassays based on actuated magnetic nanoparticles.

The realization of biomolecular detection assays for diagnostic purposes is technologically very challenging because such tests demand full integration for ease of use and need to deliver a high analytical performance with cost-effective use of materials. In this article an optomagnetic immunoassay technology is described based on nanoparticles that are magnetically actuated and optically detected in a stationary sample fluid. The dynamic control of nanoparticles by magnetic fields impacts the key immunoassay process steps, giving unprecedented speed, assay control and seamless integration of the total test. The optical detection yields sensitive and multiplexed assays in a low-cost disposable cartridge. We demonstrate that the optomagnetic technology enables high-sensitivity one-step assays in blood serum/plasma and whole saliva. Drugs of abuse are detected at sub-nanogram per millilitre levels in a total assay time of 1 min, and the cardiac marker troponin I is detected at sub-picomole per litre concentrations in a few minutes. The optomagnetic technology is fundamentally suited for high-performance integrated testing and is expected to open a new paradigm in biosensing.

Integrated flow-cells for novel adjustable sheath flows.

In this paper two integrated flow-cells are presented that can generate novel sheath flows. The flow-cells allow for dynamic orthogonal control of the sample flow dimensions. In addition to this, the sample flow can be freely positioned inside the channel. The flow-cells are attractive, because they are very simple to fabricate and are compatible with the integration of sensors. Experiments have been carried out demonstrating that the sample flow dimensions can be controlled over a wide range; also the results show good agreement with finite element simulation results.