Bead-Based Microfluidic Platform Integrated with Optical Detection Devices for Rapid Detection of Genetic Deletion from Saliva

This study presents a new magnetic bead-based microfluidic platform for genomic DNA (gDNA) extraction and rapid detection of genetic deletion from saliva samples by using micro-electro-mechanical-systems (MEMS)-based technologies. With the incorporation of several microfluidic devices, a charge-switchable, magnetic bead was used to extract gDNA released from the buccal cells in the saliva samples and collected by a built-in microcoils array. A new normally-closed micropump for liquid delivery and a new self-compensated micro temperature control module for on-chip PCR were all integrated into a single chip. Successful demonstration for detection of the patients with genetic deletion has been achieved by using the proposed microfluidic platform. Consequently, the integrated miniature saliva-based microfluidic system can provide a promising platform for rapid DNA extraction and fast detection of genetic diseases in a shorter period of time automatically.