flowassays

Flow assays, also known as flow-based assays or microfluidic assays, are a class of analytical techniques that utilize continuous or semi-continuous fluid flow to perform biological or chemical measurements. These assays are typically conducted within microfluidic devices, which are small channels etched into a substrate, allowing for precise control over sample and reagent manipulation. The principle behind flow assays is to move the sample through a series of controlled environments or reaction zones where specific analytical steps are performed.

These assays offer several advantages over traditional batch assays. Their small volumes reduce reagent consumption and waste, and the precise control over flow rates can lead to faster reaction times and improved sensitivity. The miniaturization also allows for high-throughput analysis and the integration of multiple assay steps onto a single chip, creating lab-on-a-chip systems.

Flow assays find applications in various fields, including drug discovery, diagnostics, environmental monitoring, and food safety. For example, they can be used for cell sorting, detecting biomarkers for diseases, analyzing genetic material, or quantifying chemical contaminants. The design of flow assays can vary widely, from simple single-channel devices to complex multi-channel systems with integrated detectors and pumps. The fluid flow can be driven by various mechanisms, such as external pumps, capillary action, or electrokinetic forces.