North Carolina Patent of the Month – July 2024
Xilis, Inc. has secured a patent for their microfluidic apparatus designed to enhance the generation and processing of droplets from sample materials, revolutionizing biomedical research and clinical diagnostics.
At the heart of this innovation is a microfluidic chip equipped with sophisticated channels that facilitate the creation of droplets and their subsequent polymerization. The apparatus is designed with a uniquely structured droplet generation portion, comprising an inlet connected to a sample source, an emulsifying fluid channel, and a larger chamber downstream that ensures efficient droplet formation.
One of the most notable features is the polymerization portion of the microfluidic channel, designed in a serpentine configuration to optimize the polymerization process. This serpentine layout not only increases the contact time for the polymerization reaction but also ensures uniform droplet treatment, enhancing the quality and consistency of the generated MicroOrganoSpheres (MOS).
The apparatus includes a cartridge for droplet demulsification, vital for separating the droplets from the emulsifying fluid. This cartridge features a collection container, a hydrophobic, oleophilic membrane, and a second microfluidic channel configured in a dual serpentine pattern, maximizing the efficiency of the demulsification process. This sophisticated design ensures that droplets are accurately collected and processed, ready for further analysis or use in various applications.
The microfluidic apparatus by Xilis is not just an incremental improvement but a significant leap forward, providing researchers and clinicians with a powerful tool for precise and efficient droplet generation and processing. This innovation stands to accelerate research, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and potentially lead to more personalized and effective treatment options for patients, marking a substantial advancement in the field of microfluidics and biomedical engineering.
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