Abstract:
Described herein are cell-based analytic methods, including a method of incorporating nucleic acid sequences into reaction products from a cell population, wherein the nucleic acid sequences are incorporated into the reaction products of each cell individually or in small groups of cells individually. Also described herein is a matrix-type microfluidic device that permits at least two reagents to be delivered separately to each cell or group of cells, as well as primer combinations useful in the method and device.
Abstract:
An apparatus for imaging one or more selected fluorescence indications from a microfluidic device. The apparatus includes an imaging path coupled to least one chamber in at least one microfluidic device. The imaging path provides for transmission of one or more fluorescent emission signals derived from one or more samples in the at least one chamber of the at least one microfluidic device. The chamber has a chamber size, the chamber size being characterized by an actual spatial dimension normal to the imaging path. The apparatus also includes an optical lens system coupled to the imaging path. The optical lens system is adapted to transmit the one or more fluorescent signals associated with the chamber.
Abstract:
The invention provides an assay method for detection and/or quantification of a plurality of nucleic acid or protein targets in a sample. In the method probes are used to associate a detectable tag sequence with each of the selected targets present in the sample. Probes or primers sufficient to identify at least 25, and preferably at least 500, different targets are used. The method involves segregating aliquots of the sample from each other and detecting the tag sequences in each aliquot.
Abstract:
A microfluidic device includes an input source characterized by a source pressure and an input channel in fluid communication with the input source. The microfluidic device also includes an output channel and a valve having an open state and a closed state. The valve is disposed between the input channel and the output channel and is characterized by a static pressure. The microfluidic device further includes a control channel coupled to the valve and characterized by a control pressure. In the closed state, the control pressure is greater than atmospheric pressure.
Abstract:
High throughput methods are used that combine the features of using a matrix-type microfluidic device, labeled nucleic acid probes, and homogenous assays to detect and/or quantify nucleic acid analytes. The high throughput methods are capable of detecting nucleic acid analyses with high PCR and probe specificity, producing a low fluorescence background and therefore, a high signal to noise ratio. Additionally, the high throughput methods are capable of detecting low copy number nucleic acid analyte per cell.
Abstract:
A thermal cycler for a microfluidic device includes a controller operable to provide a series of electrical signals, a heat sink, and a heating element in thermal communication with the heat sink and operable to receive the series of electrical signals from the controller. The thermal cycler also includes a thermal chuck in thermal communication with the heating element. The thermal chuck comprises a heating surface operable to make thermal contact with the microfluidic device. The heating surface is characterized by a temperature ramp rate between 2.5 degrees Celsius per second and 5.5 degrees Celsius per second and a temperature difference between a first portion of the heating surface supporting a first portion of the microfluidic device and a second portion of the heating surface supporting a second portion of the microfluidic device is less than 0.25° C.
Abstract:
The invention provides an assay method for detection and/or quantification of a plurality of nucleic acid or protein targets in a sample. In the method probes are used to associate a detectable tag sequence with each of the selected targets present in the sample. Probes or primers sufficient to identify at least 25, and preferably at least 500, different targets are used. The method involves segregating aliquots of the sample from each other and detecting the tag sequences in each aliquot.
Abstract:
Methods, systems, and devices are described for multiple single-cell capturing and processing utilizing microfluidics. Tools and techniques are provided for capturing, partitioning, and/or manipulating individual cells from a larger population of cells along with generating genetic information and/or reactions related to each individual cell. Different capture configurations may be utilized to capture individual cells and then processing each individual cell in a multi-chamber reaction configuration. Some embodiments may provide for specific target amplification, whole genome amplification, whole transcriptome amplification, real-time PCR preparation, copy number variation, preamplification, mRNA sequencing, and/or haplotyping of the multiple individual cells that have been partitioned from the larger population of cells. Some embodiments may provide for other applications. Some embodiments may be configured for imaging the individual cells or associated reaction products as part of the processing. Reaction products may be harvested and/or further analyzed in some cases.
Abstract:
Methods for cell analysis are provided, comprising cell capturing, characterization, transport, and culture. In an exemplary method individual cells (and/or cellular units) are flowed into a microfluidic channel, the channel is partitioned into a plurality of contiguous segments, capturing at least one cell in at least one segment, A characteristic of one or more captured cells is determined and the cell(s) and combinations of cells are transported to specified cell holding chamber(s) based on the determined characteristic(s). Also provided are devices and systems for cell analysis.
Abstract:
Methods and reagents for detection and analysis of nucleic acids are provided. The methods employ proximity extension assays for detection of a target nucleic acids of interest, e.g., a target RNA. The method can additionally be used in multiplex assays with a protein proximity extension assay to detect protein.