Abstract:
A system and method for performing a portable, fast, field assay of a small sample biological analyte includes a microfluidic cartridge and a reader with which the microfluidic cartridge is selectively communicated. A closed microfluidic circuit for mixes and recirculates the analyte with a buffer. A shear horizontal surface acoustic wave (SAW) detector communicates with the microfluidic circuit and has a plurality of channels including at least one functionalized sensing lane in which the mixed analyte and buffer is recirculated and sensed and including at least one reference lane. Capture of the analyte is amplified by recirculation of the analyte and buffer, and detection is amplified by use of an all-purpose endospore display mass amplification.