Microfluidic DNA hybridization assays

DNA hybridization is one of the most powerful techniques applied in diagnostic assays. Microfluidics provides a promising means to analyse small sample volumes, reduce reagent consumption and cost, shorten processing time as well as develop fast, sensitive and portable diagnostic tools. By coupling with the microfluidic technology, DNA hybridization assay can achieve high sensitivity, enhance hybridization kinetics and decrease the non-specific target-probe binding. The microfluidic-based DNA hybridization technology has a great potential for developing low-cost, rapid, automatic and point-of-care diagnostic devices. In this article, we provide an overview and summarize the recent advances on the merging of microfluidics to DNA hybridization assays. The advantages and disadvantages of various methods are discussed. Potential improvements required for these technologies are proposed as well.