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Microfluidic Techniques for Analysis

Myriam Bonose (Associate Prof), Frédéric Halgand (Researcher), Marie-Claude Menet (Associate Prof), Antoine Pallandre (Prof), Ines-Isabel de Figeiredo (PhD Student)
Alumni: Ayoub Boulghobra (PhD 2019-2023), Lucas Lecorgne (PhD 2020-2023), François-Damiens Delapierre (IR, Nanocode patent valorization 2021-23)

Under the leadership of Antoine Pallandre, the group explores the advantages of microfluidics for pre-analysis in mass spectrometry, enabling concentration, purification, and separation operations on reduced volumes. This has led to several promising projects, including the integration of microfluidic devices for the analysis of membrane proteins (PhD thesis by Lucas Lecorgne, 2020-2023) and a coupling of microfluidics for the study of α-synuclein (PhD thesis by Ines-Isabel de Figueiredo, 2021-2024).

In collaboration with LPGP, the group is working on the miniaturization of plasma discharges coupled with a FTICR mass spectrometer. The goal is to study the effects of this miniaturization on plasma behavior, particularly in terms of transport, chemical reactivity, and emissive characteristics. Such research allows for the exploration of new avenues for plasma analysis, with potential applications in fields like depollution, synthesis of chiral molecules, or surface functionalization.

As part of Ines-Isabel de Figueiredo's PhD thesis (2021-2024), a microfluidic chip is being developed to enable immuno-purification and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) of α-synuclein, a key protein in neurodegenerative pathologies such as Parkinson’s disease. This chip is coupled with a Synapt G2 instrument (TOF with ion mobility) to enhance the detection and characterization of the various forms of this protein. Initial positive results have been obtained, marking a significant advancement in optimizing purification and analysis methods for complex proteins.

Illustration of the chip connected to the Synapt as part of Ines-Isabel de Figueiredo's PhD thesis.

The group has also focused on developing a complete analysis setup for the detection of biomarkers through epi-fluorescence in the ultraviolet range with a microfluidic electro-concentration chip (in collaboration with C2N UMR 9001). The objective is to achieve rapid detection and diagnosis through UV imaging. While the commercial prospects of such microfluidic chips have proven limited, this concept is integrated into the PROMETHEUS Hospital-University Institute, which aims to propose innovative analytical methods, particularly for the diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of patients suffering from sepsis, using tools closer to the patient.

illustration of the nanocode microfluidic concept in the laboratory.

Collaborations

Stéphane Pasquiers (LPGP, IHU), Isabelle Le Potier (C2N, IHU).