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Microfluidics Engineering: Recent Trends, Valorization, and Applications

  • Review Article - Biological Sciences
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Abstract

In recent years, microfluidics engineering has gained increasing research interests in assimilation and designing novel constructs for various applications in bio- and non-bio sectors of the modern world. Soft and photolithographic fabricated devices have a potential to control the diffusion and flow of liquids in channels. The fabricated microfluidic devices of unique geometry facilitate excellent control over extracellular microenvironment and soluble factor interactions. The current devices do not only replace the in vitro approaches but also provide a new understanding of biomolecules separation and flow in the network of microchannels. The appropriate physiological responses of cells in biological studies or drug screening analysis require engineering of active cells outside the body to enhance their maximum potential for best cellular therapy. This review work mainly focuses on the current methodologies involved in the fabrication process and limitations of cell array technology. The information is given on considerable advantages of microfluidic devices. Toward the end, potential applications covering microfluidic-based in vitro drug analysis and analytical-based separation/detachment are discussed with potential future viewpoints.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Medical Science, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, QLD, 4222, Australia

    Ishtiaq Ahmed & Zain Akram

  2. School of Engineering and Science, Tecnologico de Monterrey, Campus Monterrey, Ave. Eugenio Garza Sada 2501, 64849, Monterrey, NL, Mexico

    Hafiz M. N. Iqbal

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  1. Ishtiaq Ahmed
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Correspondence to Ishtiaq Ahmed or Hafiz M. N. Iqbal.

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Ahmed, I., Iqbal, H.M.N. & Akram, Z. Microfluidics Engineering: Recent Trends, Valorization, and Applications. Arab J Sci Eng 43, 23–32 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13369-017-2662-4

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