Abstract
“In vitro diagnostics” (IVDs) is a term for a broad industry that encompasses everything from benchtop or larger bioanalytical instrumentation for protein analysis or next generation sequencing to smaller, portable devices such as point-of-care diagnostics. The requirements of a successful IVD device encompass the design and integration of a device, packaging, instrumentation with biological materials and other reagents, compounding the complexity of the development of IVDs. Among many factors that impact the success of development is the interaction of the materials chosen with each other and the sample. A microfluidic flow cell approach to automating and miniaturizing IVDs can be advantageous because of the reduction in sample and reagent volumes required. Examined here are drivers and selection criteria to help assay and device developers choose the best material for the microfluidic component of their IVD. The materials’ strengths and weaknesses are reviewed in the context of general biological analysis applications. In this context, recommendations for applications where glass can aid in achieving the desired IVD performance while still maintaining a favorable production cost are made. General guidelines for choosing materials for microfluidics-based IVDs are also provided.
Publication Date
July 25, 2017
