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We envision CascAID as a complete sample-to-answer solution for pathogen detection. Apart from our fluorescence detector “Lightbringer”, we hence had to realize a user friendly environment for the extraction and amplification of target RNA from a patient sample via lysis, followed by a combined reverse transcription, isothermal PCR and transcription step.
We therefore conceived a portable fluidic system featuring a temperature control unit and a chip to conduct all said sample processing steps prior to the readout reaction. By combining all steps on a single, enclosed and disposable chip we reduced the risk of cross-contamination and ensured secure handling of reagents and waste products.
Here, we present an early prototype that addresses these criteria. We created the chip from PDMS via soft lithography, using 3D-printed molds to speed up prototyping cycles compared to photolithography-based methods.
As shown in a different section, fluid flow can be controlled with the pressure supplied by air balloons and a bike tire that powers quake valves. In early tests we used an open source 3D printed peristaltic pump, but we expect that the balloon based solution facilitates scaling down the system, improving portability while also lowering the cost.
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