Open microfluidics for diagnostics - Maïwenn Kersaudy-Kerhoas
Abstract
Microfluidics is the underpinning technologies behind diagnostics, from the humble lateral flow to more complex devices like the Fluidigm chips. Microfluidic research has been for many years restricted to a few elite labs with access to cleanroom equipment. However, with the advent of new prototyping technologies such as laser cutting, CNC milling or 3D printing, we have seen the access to microfluidics being progressively democratised. I will discuss these ‘open’ technologies and examples of open science in microfluidics, especially microfluidics for diagnostics, and then present the Global Frugal Diagnostic network*, a new community building exercise which aims at bridging the wetware and hardware worlds and provides better access to diagnostic R&D, especially in Low and Middle Income countries.
*You can also join the Global Frugal Diagnostics Network’s Slack group here.