Droplet-based Microtexture Biochip System for Triglycerides and Methanol Measurement.

A droplet-based microfluidic system was developed for biochemical assays of triglycerides and methanol as potential applications in medical rapid diagnostics and food safety. We present a novel platform to manipulate biology reaction droplets with features of self-moving, self-mixing, and self-positioning toward the detection spot. The driving force comes from the gradient of surface tension force generated by the hydrophobic microtexture PDMS surface. We also demonstrate the experiments in water, and blood droplets running uphill to overcome the gravity. These findings support the ongoing works to develop the multifunctional biosensors in medicine and food safety.