TABLE 1.

Summary of IMPOD characteristics

Automated operation
Manual volume-independent sample introduction via syringe or pipette (no volume dependence, if > 50 μL)
Automated sample preparation and associated timing
Integrated high-voltage power supply (drives mixing, preconcentration, and electrophoresis)
Automated assay and replicate runs (timing)
Electronic data collection via software interface
Sample introduction and pre-processing
Off-chip: centrifugation and dilution
On-chip: debris removal (filtering); sample preconcentration; rapid mixing
Microfluidic immunoassay specificity and selectivity
Multiplexing: serial format demonstrated; parallel format in testing stage
“Capture chemistry”: high-affinity, fluorescent receptors provide specificity
Tunable sieving matrix provides assay selectivity and resolution
Analysis of saliva from subjects in both healthy
and periodontal-diseased categories
Gold-standard results comparison via validation assays (ELISA, protein microarray)
Miniaturized detection system
Fluorescent receptor molecules provide specific detection signal
Diode laser induced fluorescence excitation
Photomultiplier tube (PMT) fluorescence detection
Data analysis
Software-based data analysis (research stage)