Andrew J. deMELLOCo-founder, Molecular Vision Ltd. / Prof., Chemistry, Imperial College London

A significant challenge arising from the existence of small volumes within microfluidic systems is the ability to efficiently detect analyte molecules. High-sensitivity detection is therefore a pre-requisite when performing analysis in microfluidic systems. To date, detection approaches have generally focused on the use of optical techniques. Optical measurements are well-suited for most microfluidic systems but are typically based on external components which are large, complex and costly. Such systems have been successful in the development of high-efficiency microfluidic systems for laboratory-based applications.

However, the realization of portable microdevices for in-the-field or point-of-care applications clearly necessitates the development of miniaturized and integrated detection systems. My talk will report the first commercial steps towards fully disposable, stand-alone diagnostic microchips for determination of urinary human serum albumin, heart disease and in vivo vitamin C levels. The combination of microfluidics and light emitting polymer technology allows the creation of highly integrated and miniaturised instrumental platform for future point-of-care diagnostics.