Applications of Microfluidics Device Technology (Progress in Molecular Biology and Translational Science, Volume 227)

Microfluidics is a rapidly expanding field that is recognized as a powerful platform for accelerating biological science research and innovation. It has the potential to reduce the cost and reagent consumption by enabling the precise manipulation of a small amount of fluids through microchannel ranging from ten to hundreds micrometres in size. It is a multidisciplinary domain, which integrates molecular analysis, molecular biology, and microelectronics. It has demonstrated practical applications in the design and fabrication of systems capable of processing low volumes of fluids while enabling multiplexing, automation, and high-throughput screening. Since its emergence in early 1980s, microfluidics has significantly contributed in the development of inkjet printheads, DNA chips, lab-on-a-chip technology, micro-propulsion, and micro-thermal technologies. Microfluidic chips comprise intricate networks of microchannels and chambers designed to manipulate fluids at the microscale. This volume highlights the applications of microfluidics in the detection and analysis of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. It also explores the use of microfluidic technologies in the diagnosis and study of non-infectious diseases, including cardiovascular disorders, cancer, metabolic diseases, and neurological conditions. It also covered single-cell analysis, high-throughput drug screening, cell sorting, and both preclinical and clinical applications. It also used in role of microfluidics in organ culture, regenerative medicine, and personalized healthcare. It also addresses ethical and regulatory issues in the development and use of microfluidic devices. This volume is designed to serve as valuable resource for students, researchers, scientists, clinicians, stakeholders, policymakers, and practitioners to understand microfluidics and apply microfluidics technology/devices in various fields. It provides a strong foundation to help the extension of microfluidics knowledge and accelerate research, innovation, technology and practical applications.