High precision scanning of encoded hydrogel microparticles
US8034629B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 1, 2009 |
| Grant date | Oct 11, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 5, 2029 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T436/2575
- WIPO fieldChemical engineering
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Techniques are provided for high precision scanning of hydrogel microparticles. The high precision is achieved by one or more modifications to the microparticle composition, or microfluidics apparatus that align the microparticles in a detection channel, or method of preparing a sample for introduction into the apparatus, or some combination. An apparatus comprises a body structure having formed therein a central channel and multiple focusing channels in fluid communication with the central channel through multiple junctions. A width of the central channel is smaller in a portion downstream of each junction. A particle comprises a hydrogel matrix and a probe molecule. The particle has an aspect ratio greater than about three. A method includes loading into a sample fluid inlet a mixture, wherein a number of particles lies within a range from about 15 to about 20 particles/μl.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.