Microfluidic automation for miniaturized biological screening

Overview

Fraunhofer IMM offers complementary microfluidic platform technologies that automate sample preparation and enable miniaturized biological screening. The combined approach targets the most labor-intensive parts of biological discovery workflows—variable sample preparation and low-volume assay setup—where repeated transfers, changing protocols, and separate instruments create manual effort and variability. By integrating microliter liquid handling, mixing, filtration, and nano- to picoliter dispensing into automated workflows, the technology reduces manual intervention and improves reproducibility for algae-, tissue-, or protoplast-based assays.

The solution is designed to be configured around a specific priority use case, from sample input to assay-ready output, rather than replacing an entire laboratory infrastructure. This makes it suitable for evaluation against an existing reference process with limited initial integration effort, with the option to expand only after biological and operational value is demonstrated.

Technical specifications

Key technologies:

• MICRO-HEAD combines microliter liquid handling, mixing, and filtration in a robotic toolhead for automated sample preparation.
• TrapJet enables automated nano- to picoliter dispensing for miniaturized assay platforms.
• CTCelect provides automated separation, enrichment, and controlled transfer of biological material.
• Microfluidic amplification is available as an analytical extension for downstream detection.

Workflow approach:

• A priority use case is selected and its inputs, process steps, constraints, and reference results are documented.
• Measurable acceptance criteria are agreed before experimental work begins.
• Feasibility is tested with representative biological material, and required adaptations are identified.
• Selected functions are assembled into a pilot workflow and compared with the reference process.
• Validation covers use-case-specific biological endpoints and technical parameters such as dispensing performance, carry-over, and reproducibility.
• If separation or enrichment is required, material compatibility is confirmed before integration.

Technology readiness level

The technologies are available as complementary platform building blocks and can be configured into application-specific pilot workflows. The proposed approach is at the feasibility and pilot-validation stage: a priority use case would first be selected and documented, then the relevant technologies tested with representative biological material, and finally assembled into a pilot workflow for comparison against an existing reference process. Results, limitations, and remaining development needs would be documented in a joint assessment supporting a go/no-go decision and defining the scope of a possible broader pilot.