Abstract

Merging Lab Automation with Microfluidics Technology

Holger Becker, Chief Scientific Officer, Microfluidic ChipShop

Liquid handling is an essential process step in all biological, chemical or diagnostic assays. While many of these assays have traditionally been performed using laboratory automation instrument such as pipetting robots and plate handlers in conventional microwell plate formats, microfluidic devices have made great progress in integrating many procedural steps, especially in sample prep, using a single microfluidic device to perform a complex workflow. These microfluidic devices however are mostly operated in a continuous-flow mode, with the flow driven by one or several pumps or pressure controllers. In many applications however, a combination of both technologies can utilize the strengths of both approaches. We have developed several systems which combine the flexibility and reliability of a liquid handling system with the speed and complexity of a microfluidic device. Examples from the diagnostic and biotechnology field will be presented, indicating opportunities and limitations of these technologies.