US20260273523
2026-09-17
Performing operations; transporting
B01L3/502
Integrated fluidic devices and associated methods are introduced, primarily aimed at enhancing diagnostic procedures. These devices are particularly adept at detecting multiple disease-causing bacteria in patient samples simultaneously, offering a significant improvement over existing technologies. The devices are designed to handle larger fluid samples, ranging from 0.5 mL to about 5 mL, and provide highly sensitive detection of microbial pathogens. A notable feature is the ability to identify pathogens directly from unprocessed blood samples, eliminating the need for traditional blood culturing processes.
The fluidic device is structured with various components that facilitate its function. Key elements include a sample inlet, fluidic channels, lysis regions, isolation regions, reaction regions, and amplification regions. These components work in tandem to process and analyze samples efficiently. The device also includes multiple fluidic reservoirs and gas chambers, each designed to hold specific volumes and align perpendicularly to fluidic channels, enhancing the device's operational efficiency.
The design incorporates a fluidic hub with branching channels and valves, allowing for complex fluid manipulation. This setup ensures that fluids can be moved, reacted, and analyzed with precision. The device's structure, featuring a semipermeable membrane, ensures effective fluid management and minimizes contamination risks. The membrane's hydrophobic properties and specified air permeability levels are critical for maintaining the device's integrity and performance.
The methods associated with these fluidic devices involve transporting and reacting fluids within the system. By introducing liquids and gases into designated chambers, the device uses pressure to move and mix these substances, facilitating various diagnostic processes. The methodology supports the rapid and accurate identification of pathogens, leveraging the fluidic hub's branching channels to streamline operations and enhance diagnostic outcomes.
These fluidic devices are particularly beneficial in addressing bloodstream infections (BSIs), a significant health challenge given their prevalence and impact. By providing rapid, sensitive, and accurate microbial detection, the devices offer a transformative approach to diagnosing and managing infections. The automation of molecular processes reduces human error and contamination risks, ensuring reliable and repeatable results, which are crucial for effective medical interventions.