Self-priming, vacuum-sealed “ready-to-use” microfluidics

This paper reports a microfluidics assembly and preparation process that overcomes barriers to implementing microfluidics within the biological sciences, then demonstrates successful deployment with novel biological results. Our sterilized, vacuum-equilibrated microfluidics are (1) prepared to include biological specimens that can be used upon receipt, or (2) easily used to initiate cultures within 14 days of receipt. Our packaged “ready-to-use” microfluidics can be used in nearly any laboratory, field location, or environment, thus substantially minimizing barriers associated with adopting microfluidics in biology.