Applications of micro total analysis systems(µTAS) towards biological assays

概要

This thesis describes the importance of the micro-total analysis system (μTAS) and its newly developed applications in biological fields. By combining microfabrication, microfluidics, engineering, and biological elements, I have developed some unique techniques and devices to address the existing problems related to the biological and biochemical fields with advanced robustness, simplicity and efficiency. Therefore, this study paves the way for developing more efficient micro-total analysis systems (μTAS) applications in biological fields.

In the first part, an efficient glass microlens fabrication technique is introduced. Unlike conventional methods, here glass microlens form by thermally inflating the microcavities confined between two thin glass slides. This technique not only eliminated the fabrication limitations that remained in the field but also made it possible for developing on-chip fast focusing, sensitive detection, compact imaging applications.

Then, based on this new dome structure two applications were developed via integration with microfluidics and external control system to establish the on-chip observation, detection, and monitoring platform for single cell-based micro-total analysis system (μTAS) and beyond. And then, this thesis introduced a chemical micropump system powered by synthetic polymer gel's periodical expanding and shrinking self-oscillating motions called Belousov-Zhabotinsky (BZ) reaction. This new micropump system is applicable both in general micro and nanofluidic devices establishment but also has the potentials used for developing artificial muscles, biomimetic robots, and soft machines applications.

Lastly, I developed the first miniaturized plant actuated valve system. It is unlike other artificial devices actuated by living cells or tissues, I used the stimuli-responsive action plant called Mimosa pudica (sleepy plant). This study is related to the plants' energy exploration, environment sensors, and smart devices development as well as special valves and biocommunication devices fabrication.

To sum up, the results described in this thesis on various devices and techniques are very practical for creating micro-total analysis systems (μTAS) to solve or optimize the obstacles that existed in biological and biochemical fields.