Usage of microfluidic lab-on-chips in biomedicine

Abstract

Lab-on-chip systems comprise a class of devices that integrate fluidics and electronics on a single chip. Lab-on-chip devices are capable of handling and analysing chemical and biological liquid samples. Microfluidic devices comprise a broader group that includes lab-on-chip devices and also micro total analysis systems (μTAS). The formers are devoted to laboratory use, such as sample testing and handling, while the latter focuses mostly on biochemical analysis down to molecular level. Lab-on-chip devices facilitate automated operations such as sample handling, separation and liquid mixing. Furthermore, lab-on-chip devices force the development of point-of-care devices, which are expected to become the leading technology for diagnosis and therapeutics in personalized medicine.