Low-cost and high-throughput Multi-Channel Capillary Electrophoresis (MCCE) system for DNA analysis

In this paper we present the innovative use of an inexpensive Multi-Channel Capillary-based Electrophoresis (MCCE) system in combination with disposable separation cartridge for routine analysis of DNA fragments. The proposed multi-channel system is based on a novel multiplexed fluorescence detection technology, which provides a rapid and unique solution for DNA analysis. Presently the Capillary Electrophoresis (CE) based technology used for DNA analysis, rely on gas discharge UV-Visible lamps or lasers as light sources that are bulky, expensive, and difficult to couple one's light output into optical fibers, for miniaturization of the optical detection system. The light sources hinder the development of small sized, high-throughput and cost-effective genomics instrument. Whereas, the proposed instrument with solid-state light sources and non-moving detection micro-optics, and re-usable cartridge containing multiple separation channels, provide a cost-effective solution for a robust CE instrument. Furthermore, the simplified operation of the MCCE instrument will drastically reduce the cost of DNA analysis, and possibly will be the instrument of choice for forensic DNA and molecular diagnostics applications in the near future.