Microfluidic cartridge for remote dried blood spot collection

Remote microsampling of biofluids plays a key role in transforming the current healthcare system to a more patient-centric approach by (i) increasing the diagnostic accessibility in hard-to-reach settings, (ii) minimizing the number of needed doctor and hospital visits for chronic patients, (iii) minimizing the risk of disease spreading, and (iv) reducing the load on healthcare personnel. In this context, the collection of small capillary blood volumes in the format of dried blood spots (DBS) is a well-known microsampling technique. DBS sampling is, however, not yet widely adopted in clinical practise as current solutions do not provide reliable samples or are still cumbersome in operation. To tackle this, we have developed an integrated microsampling cartridge that enables the collection of multiple high-quality DBS samples from finger-pricked capillary blood. We now want to explore the valorisation potential of this platform towards spin-off creation, and therefore the aim of this specific short-term IOF trajectory is to prepare (drafting, training, and defending) for a VLAIO innovation mandate application, which also includes business development and IP protection.

Keywords:Microsamping, Microfluidics, Blood, Decentralized healthcare, Point-of-care

Disciplines:Microfluidics/flow chemistry, Clinical chemistry