A microfluidic system with chip-integrated micro-syringes and ultrasonic handling of magnetic beads

This contribution reports a miniaturized diagnostic system for a rapid and sensitive quantitative detection of protein-biomarkers in blood plasma. A novel method for dispensing and for on-chip storage of reagents is presented within the system. Miniaturized syringes are integrated inside of the microfluidic chip and serve as storage chambers and actuators. The system also includes a method for controlling the magnetic bead-based immunoassays by using a magnet and a sonication system integrated in the processing device. With a built in silicon photodiode for signal detection and fluidic connections, the whole protocol is enabled to be performed within a single device.