Revolutionizing Sensitivity and Speed in Point-of-Care Testing
Lateral flow immunoassays (LFIs) have become an essential tool in the realm of point-of-care diagnostics, enabling rapid and efficient chemical and biological testing. Their portable nature, cost-effectiveness, and swift outcomes have paved the way for a diverse range of applications. Now, imagine a breakthrough that not only retains these advantageous traits but also significantly enhances sensitivity through ingenious manipulation of fluid dynamics. Enter the realm of Lab-on-a-Disc technology, where the synergy of centrifugal force and advanced simulations brings forth unprecedented opportunities.
Unveiling the Challenge
To elevate the sensitivity of LFIs, a prevailing approach involves meticulous control over the analyte’s flow rate within the active sensing zone, such as the test line. Recent strides in this direction have led to the integration of lateral flow assays onto centrifugal microfluidic platforms, aptly named Lab-on-a-Disc. This platform offers the prospect of dynamically influencing analyte flow through lateral flow membranes, enabling both acceleration and deceleration using the centrifugal force applied to the passing fluid.
Empowering Simulation with ANSYS Fluent
In our quest to elucidate this innovation, we harnessed the power of finite element analysis (FEA) simulations, employing the esteemed ANSYS Fluent software platform. By replicating real-world scenarios within the virtual realm, we delved into the intricate dynamics of liquid front propagation through nitrocellulose (NC) membranes. These simulations became our guiding light, helping us anticipate outcomes, optimize designs, and enhance performance.
Validation: Where Virtual Meets Reality
However, the true measure of a simulation’s worth lies in its validation against real-world experiments. Enter a series of meticulously designed experiments, where lateral flow membranes of varying pore sizes, spanning from 7 µm to 15 µm, were harmoniously integrated onto micromachined discs. As the experimental results of liquid front advancement danced in harmony with the ANSYS simulation predictions, validation was achieved with remarkable precision – our simulations attaining an astonishing accuracy rate within 15% of experimental observations.
ANSYS simulation video showing higher dwell time of fluid flow through paper in case of higher disc spin speed
Research and Published Data from Snehan Peshin on Vimeo.
Decoding Dependencies
Our endeavor unearthed a treasure trove of insights regarding the intricacies of liquid meniscus advancement in Lab-on-a-Disc LFIs. The speed of this advancement, we found, is inherently linked to the porosity of the nitrocellulose (NC) membrane, the sizes of its pores, and the angular velocity of the spinning disc. The interplay of these factors weaves a tapestry of possibilities, where fine-tuning each thread empowers us to craft LFIs of unparalleled sensitivity.
Future Avenues and Collaborative Pursuits
The journey into the heart of Lab-on-a-Disc LFIs has only just begun. With each revelation, we inch closer to a new era in point-of-care diagnostics – one where precision, speed, and sensitivity harmonize seamlessly. We invite researchers, scientists, and innovators to join hands in unraveling the full potential of this groundbreaking technology. Together, we can transform the landscape of diagnostics and healthcare, bringing forth a new age of accuracy and accessibility.
Intrigued? Explore the comprehensive insights of our research in the paper, “Controlling the advancement of the liquid front of the nitrocellulose membrane assay under the influence of the centrifugal force on the Lab-on-a-Disc platform” Embark on a journey that promises to reshape the future of point-of-care testing, driving us toward a world where innovation knows no bounds.
Connect with us to be part of this transformative expedition.
Join the Discourse, Embrace the Discovery, Redefine Diagnostics.
Dr. Snehan Peshin Lead Researcher | Innovator | Healthcare Visionary
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Reference:
S. Peshin, J. Golden, B. Gan, C. Mast, and L. Kulinsky, “Controlling the advancement of the liquid front of the nitrocellulose membrane assay under the influence of the centrifugal force on the Lab-on-a-Disc platform,” Sensors and Actuators B: Chemical, vol. 386, p. 133735, Jul. 2023, doi: 10.1016/j.snb.2023.133735.