This video illustrates how the Optoreader detects and measures the speed of droplets containing fluorescent targets. In the upper left panel, the studied microfluidic chip is visualized showing the generation and transport of droplets. The Optoreader generates a light spot at the fluidic channel to probe the reflection and fluorescence of these droplets as they move across the illuminated area. The collected signal is next visualized and analyzed (statistics on the size, speed and fluorescent intensity) on the right panels. Here, such information is fed back to the pressure control system (lower right panel) to adjust to applied pressure.

Droplets generation has a large range of application, such as emulsion production, single cell analysis, drug delivery or nanoparticles synthesis. Droplets can also be used as micro bioreactors for chemical or biochemical reactions.

In such application, it is essential to track and probe the individual droplets. The Optoreader offers a light-based non-invasive, sensitive, high-throughput and convenient way to achieve this goal.

In this application note, we will review the detection of fluorescent droplet using the Optoreader.

The experiments shown in this application note have been realized only with Elveflow’s instruments and accessories. For any advice on your research project and experimental needs, do not hesitate to consult our team of specialists.