Glossary Term
Microfluidics in Diagnostics
Definition
Microfluidics refers to the manipulation of small volumes of fluids—typically in the microliter to nanoliter range—within channels on a microscale platform. In diagnostics, microfluidic technologies enable precise analysis of biological samples, facilitating rapid, portable, and cost-effective testing for diseases and conditions.
Relevance to the MedTech Industry
Microfluidics revolutionizes diagnostics by miniaturizing laboratory processes, enabling faster and more efficient tests. These devices support point-of-care (POC) testing, early disease detection, and personalized medicine, improving healthcare access and outcomes.
Additional Information & Related Terms
Applications of Microfluidics in Diagnostics
Point-of-Care Testing (POCT):
Portable devices for rapid diagnostics, such as glucose meters, COVID-19 tests, or pregnancy tests.
Molecular Diagnostics:
Enabling PCR and next-generation sequencing on a microfluidic chip for detecting genetic markers of diseases.
Immunoassays:
Detecting biomarkers for conditions like cardiac diseases, cancers, or infectious diseases.
Cell Analysis:
Performing single-cell analysis, blood typing, or monitoring circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in oncology.
Environmental and Pathogen Detection:
Testing for pathogens in food, water, or clinical samples with rapid, on-site microfluidic systems.
Related Terms
Lab-on-a-Chip (LoC): Microfluidic devices that integrate multiple laboratory functions onto a single platform.
Point-of-Care Testing (POCT): Diagnostic tests performed at or near the site of patient care.
Biomarkers: Biological molecules used as indicators of normal or pathological processes, often measured with microfluidics.
Molecular Diagnostics: Techniques to analyze genetic material, often enhanced by microfluidic technology.
Sample-to-Answer Systems: Fully automated platforms that take a biological sample and deliver diagnostic results.