Abstract

AC Electrokinetic Device for Isolation and Detection of Biomarkers and Other Disease Related Entities Directly from Blood

Stuart Ibsen, Research Associate, University College London

New AC electrokinetic (ACE) microarray/chip devices now allow for the rapid isolation of biomarkers (cell free DNA and exosomes), viruses, and drug delivery nanoparticles directly from 20-50ul of blood, plasma or serum. After isolation of the biomarkers and/or other entities, specific fluorescent dyes can be used to simultaneously detect the different biomarker levels (DNA, RNA) directly on the chip (in-situ). In a subsequent step, immunofluorescent analysis can be carried out to identify specific protein biomarkers on exosomes or disease related entities. Finally, cell free (cf) DNA and RNA (mRNAs and miRNAs released from the exosomes) can be eluted from the ACE chip. This allows PCR and sequencing analysis to be carried out to identify the cancer-related point mutations and other polymorphisms, as well as to verify the tissue origin of the biomarkers. Thus, ACE devices represent a powerful new minimally invasive technology for the detection and analysis of cancer, traumatic brain injury, and many other diseases and pathologies. This technology is setting the stage for truly “seamless sample to answer” molecular diagnostics.