Research highlights: microfluidics and magnets

Abstract

In this highlight we present a snapshot of recent work using magnetic forces and particles to perform lab on a chip operations. Magnetic micro- & nanoparticles have been widely used for separations in cell biology & clinical diagnostics and as solid phase supports for reactions and chemical assays. Microscale approaches to control and manipulate magnetic particles can enable new functionality; allowing parallel and complex automation of assays, manipulation of fluids themselves, and precise separations based on small differences in magnetic properties. Here we discuss recent work demonstrating advances in these three areas.