Microfluidic-based detection platform for on-the-flow analyte characterization

Abstract

While commercial flow cytometers are sophisticated analytical instruments extensively used in research and clinical laboratories, they do not meet the challenging practical requirements for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics. In this paper we will describe and illustrate a new detection technique that will enable a compact, microfluidic-based flow cytometer that satisfies POC specifications for performance, robustness, compactness, cost, reagent consumption, and ease of use. The technology has been demonstrated with CD4 counts in whole blood.