Studying enzymatic reactions in picoliter chambers with localized magnetic bead assemblies

Abstract

We present a magnetophoretic microfluidic method for kinetic studies of catalytic and enzymatic reactions. Magnetic beads with immobilized enzymes are locally captured and isolated in the center of microchambers, which are defined by round valves. The valves can be opened and closed within milliseconds and hence, allow rapid supply of reactants and washing steps as well as the enrichment of the product for kinetic investigations. The method is scalable, easy to implement and highly adaptable.