A groundbreaking impedance biosensor streamlines Point-of-Care diagnostics by integrating sample preparation and signal amplification for swift, sensitive biomolecule detection.

Despite the critical need for rapid biomolecule detection in patient care, existing POC devices are hindered by slow operation times and technical challenges, limiting their effectiveness in non-laboratory settings.

The proposed Point-of-Care (POC) platform revolutionizes immunodiagnostics by incorporating an impedance biosensor that significantly shortens the assay time from hours to minutes. This miniaturized device integrates sample preparation, fluidic manipulation, and signal amplification, achieving heightened sensitivity within clinically relevant detection limits. The self-contained biochip is pre-loaded with all necessary reagents for a microparticle-labeled sandwich immunoassay, and the system includes a cost-effective custom impedance analyzer circuit and programmable processor, enabling its handheld design. The device’s unique microfluidic structure ensures precise control over solution delivery, enhancing the reliability of the diagnostic process. This innovation represents a significant leap forward in POC testing, offering a single-step, portable platform with unparalleled sensitivity and resolution.

Design & Development

• Fully Integrated System: From sample insertion to result display, all components are self-contained within the handheld device.
• Rapid Diagnostics: Reduces assay time to minutes, facilitating quicker clinical decisions.
• Enhanced Sensitivity: Utilizes microparticles to amplify impedance signals, improving the Limit-Of-Detection (LOD) to clinically relevant levels.
• User-Friendly Design: Engineered for ease of use by non-specialists, particularly in resource-limited areas.
• Consistent Results: Employs a particle distributor to ensure uniformity in test outcomes.

Khodayari Bavil A, Kim J. A capillary flow-driven microfluidic system for microparticle-labeled immunoassays. Analyst. 2018;143(14):3335-3342. doi:10.1039/c8an00898a

Khodayari Bavil A , Sticker D , Rothbauer M , Ertl P , Kim J . A microfluidic microparticle-labeled impedance sensor array for enhancing immunoassay sensitivity. Analyst. 2021;146(10):3289-3298. doi:10.1039/d0an02081h

Aaron Duffy
(801) 585-1377
aaron.duffy@utah.edu