Next generation of microfluidic nanosensing platforms for medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring

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Importance: Early and accurate detection of many of diseases and injuries is still a challenge due to high cost and limited resolution of diagnostic tools. The current diagnostic methods are mainly based on a combination of clinical presentations and the use of different molecular methods. Most of these detection tools rely on optical and imaging detection systems, which in many cases do not provide conclusive results and are labor intensive, time consuming and expensive, therefore they have not been translated into clinical settings. Moreover, countless toxic chemicals and pollutants are released into the environment, which are not detectable reliably using existing monitoring and sensing systems. Electrochemical sensors have recently found reputation for detection of various molecules due to their highly sensitive and selective performance, rapid, label-free, simple, and ease of automation. However, electrochemical sensors are still expensive and less available, and their modification is costly and time-consuming with a limited reproducibility. Also the utility of these sensors for on-site monitoring and point-of-care settings is still restricted due to manual process of several steps of sensing particularly for simultenous detection of multiple targets. Objective: The goal of the proposed research program is to develop new electrochemical sensing platforms and devices for automatic isolation, purification and ultrasensitive detection of various biomolecules, bioparticles, and environmental toxins and pollutants. Anticipated Outcome: Our sensing devices are expected to address the unmet needs of rapid and accurate diagnostics and environmental monitoring via highly sensitive and selective detection of different target molecules and particles in low-cost and automated sensing systems. These devices present new detection methods that (1) do not require dilution of  samples; (2) need a small volume of biofluids, (3) maintain the viability of target particles; (4) minimize the number of processing steps and time between sample collection and target detection; and (5) have the capacity of detecting multiple target molecules and particles simultaneously. Benefits to Canada: This project will train the next generation of researchers with the interdisciplinary expertise in nanotechnology, diagnostic tools, and sensing devices. It will also lead to economic benefits for Canada through developing nanomaterials and sensing tools, launching new spin-off companies for medical diagnostic and environmental monitoring tools, and creating demands for Canada's nanotechnology and diagnostic products. The sensing products will serve Canadian patients by enabling them to receive the most appropriate therapy at an earlier time-point than previously possible and support the development of efficient strategies for environmental protection.