Methods and devices for electrical sample preparation
US9574245B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 25, 2013 |
| Grant date | Feb 21, 2017 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 12, 2035 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB01L2400/0694
- WIPO fieldBiotechnology
- WIPO sectorChemistry
Abstract
Devices and methods are provided for electrically lysing cells and releasing macromolecules from the cells. A microfluidic device is provided that includes a planar channel having a thickness on a submillimeter scale, and including electrodes on its upper and lower inner surfaces. After filling the channel with a liquid, such that the channel contains cells within the liquid, a series of voltage pulses of alternating polarity are applied between the channel electrodes, where the amplitude of the voltage pulses and a pulsewidth of the voltage pulses are effective for causing irreversible electroporation of the cells. The channel is configured to possess thermal properties such that the application of the voltage produces a rapid temperature rise as a result of Joule heating for releasing the macromolecules from the electroplated cells. The channel may also include an internal filter for capturing and concentrating the cells prior to electrical processing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.