Multiplexed antibody detection from blood sera by immobilization of in vitro expressed antigens and label-free readout via imaging reflectometric interferometry (iRIf).

The detection of antibodies from blood sera is crucial for diagnostic purposes. Miniaturized protein assays in combination with microfluidic setups hold great potential by enabling automated handling and multiplexed analyses. Yet, the separate expression, purification, and storage of many individual proteins are time consuming and limit applicability.

A microfluidic biochip for locally confined stimulation of cells within an epithelial monolayer.

A key factor determining the fate of individual cells within an epithelium is the unique microenvironment that surrounds each cell. It regulates location-dependent differentiation into specific cellular sub-types, but, on the other hand, a disturbed microenvironment can promote malignant transformation of epithelial cells leading to cancer formation. Here, we present a tool based on a microfluidic biochip that enables novel research approaches by providing a means to control the basolateral microenvironment of a confined number of neighbouring cells within an epithelial monolayer.