Surface Modification Methods for Enhanced Device Efficacy and Function

Currently available microfluidic devices can accomplish a variety of tasks useful in molecular biology. When moving analytical processes to a microenvironment, the properties of the device surface play a larger role in the functioning of the device. Surface modification may become necessary or advantageous for the purpose of control of the functional mechanics of the device, keeping cell components from adsorbing, attaching antibodies to the surface for detection of biological components, and attaching a functional bonding complex. Modification of the surface of microfluidic devices for the control of flow and device function, or for funtionalization of the surface to tailor the device to a specific use, can be accomplished in numerous bench-top, postfabrication procedures. The use of polyelectrolyte multilayers, ultraviolet grafting of polymers, and polydimethylsiloxane/surfactant coating to control flow and mitigate adsorption is discussed. In addition, the funtionalization of devices through amine termination of surfaces, and immobilization of biotin within a phosphotidylcholine bilayer is detailed.