A Method for Rapid Immunoassays Using a Three-Dimensional Microfluidic Capillary System

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This invention relates to a new method for performing rapid immunoassays using a three-dimensional microfluidic capillary system. The system features a specially designed channel whose cross-sectional area decreases in the direction of fluid flow, allowing biofunctionalized beads or particles to be immobilized at precise spots based on their size. The method enables direct testing—such as the detection of antibodies or other biomarkers—in unprocessed biological samples (including whole blood) using only capillary action, without the need for pumps or complex sample preparation.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Point-of-care diagnostics for rapid detection of disease biomarkers from whole blood or other biofluids.
• Multiplexed detection of several antibodies or antigens in a single, small-volume sample for screening infectious diseases, autoimmune conditions, or allergies.
• On-site medical testing in remote or resource-limited settings where access to laboratory equipment is restricted.
• Self-testing or home-based monitoring of specific proteins or antibodies (e.g., COVID-19, HIV, or allergies).
• High-throughput research requiring minimal sample volumes and fast turnaround times, such as drug discovery or biomarker validation.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Extremely rapid assay results (readout in under 10 minutes) compared to standard techniques like ELISA.
• No need for complex and expensive equipment—operation is driven purely by capillary action (self-powered).
• Can process whole blood samples directly, eliminating the need for centrifugation, filtration, or prior sample preparation.
• Highly sensitive and capable of semi-quantitative or multiplexed detection within a single assay.
• Requires very small sample volumes, minimizing patient discomfort and conserving rare samples.
• Manufacturing can be scaled up and cost-effective, potentially allowing mass production of disposable tests.

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Patent Abstract

The present invention relates to a method for rapid immunoassays using a three-dimensional microfluidic capillary system, wherein the 3D microfluidic capillary system has a 3D fluidic trapping section having its cross-section area diminishing in the flow direction of the fluid through the system and wherein support beads or biofunctionalized particles used in said method have a dimension to enable them to be size-dependently immobilized at a predefined position in the fluidic trapping section.