In situ Biomolecule Assembly and Activity within Completely Packaged Microfluidic Devices

We demonstrate in situ biomolecule assembly in a completely packaged microfluidic bioMEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) device and the resulting biofunctionality of the system. Chitosan biopolymer is employed as the platform for biomolecules, using its pH responsive properties for site-selective electrodeposition and it amine functionality for biomolecular conjugation. These characteristics, combined with a robust device and packaging technology, provide the basis to emulate multi-step, multi-site bioreactions as needed for metabolic engineering. We demonstrate the directed assembly and functionality of biomolecules in bioMEMS through fluorescence of species and enzymatic conversion of small molecules.