In the field of oncology diagnostics, precision and speed are crucial for advancing research and improving patient care. Our client, a leader in liquid biopsy technology, was developing a system to isolate circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from blood samples, which required a highly customized fluid handling solution. The client needed a valve that could manage the sensitive process of cell isolation while maintaining efficiency for real-time diagnostics, driving the need for a specialized approach to meet their specific requirements.
Our client, operating in field of oncology diagnostics, faced the challenge of efficiently isolating circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from patient blood samples. The process required extreme precision, as CTCs are fragile and prone to damage from traditional fluid handling systems. Additionally, the client’s system needed to work rapidly to maintain real-time diagnostics while minimizing sample waste. Off-the-shelf valves were unsuitable, causing inefficiencies in both handling and processing, which could potentially compromise the quality of the cells and the reliability of the diagnostics. The search for a custom solution became essential, with a focus on balancing cell preservation, process automation, and integration with the existing system.
To solve the client’s fluid handling challenges, we engineered a custom distribution switch valve tailored to their unique requirements. The valve combines fluid distribution and switching capabilities in one compact unit, reducing system complexity and allowing for more efficient sample handling. Integrated to our Industrial Microfluidic Rotary Valve module (RVM), the valve enables precise control of flow paths, which is essential for isolating fragile circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from blood samples. This integrated approach ensured accuracy and minimized sample waste during the process.
The valve was designed to minimize shear stress on delicate cells, ensuring sample integrity, while also allowing seamless automation for faster and more reliable diagnostics. Its low internal volume design helped reduce sample waste, critical when working with small and precious biological samples. Additionally, the valve’s modular construction enabled easy integration into the client’s existing system without extensive re-engineering, allowing them to quickly implement the solution into their workflows.
The rotor is precisely designed to direct fluid to either the distribution or switch channel:
The valve remains open during normal operation and only closes during rotation, allowing it to offer two distinct flow paths (function) simultaneously:
By customizing the valve to meet specific flow rates and chemical compatibility, we ensured it would support the client’s broader research and diagnostic applications, enhancing the overall effectiveness of their system.
The custom distribution switch valve brought multiple advantages to our client’s fluid handling system. First, it significantly improved sample integrity by minimizing shear stress on circulating tumor cells (CTCs), a critical factor in their isolation process. The streamlined design reduced system complexity and maintenance requirements, leading to more efficient workflows. Additionally, the integration of precise flow control enhanced automation, allowing for faster diagnostics with greater accuracy. The compact, modular nature of the valve also made it easy to incorporate into their existing setup, reducing downtime and costs.
By implementing the custom distribution switch valve, our client in oncology diagnostics experienced a noticeable improvement in operational efficiency and sample quality. The enhanced precision in fluid handling significantly reduced the risk of damaging circulating tumor cells (CTCs), leading to more accurate results in their liquid biopsy process. Additionally, the streamlined system design allowed them to reduce sample waste and speed up their diagnostic workflows. This optimized process enabled more reliable and reproducible outcomes, enhancing their overall research capabilities.
The custom distribution switch valve has broad applications beyond the initial oncology diagnostics use case.
CTC isolation: Precise fluid control allows for improved isolation and preservation of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in liquid biopsies. Real-time monitoring: Enhanced fluid handling accelerates diagnostic workflows, allowing for more efficient monitoring of tumor progression.
Organ-on-a-chip systems: Used to simulate human organs in research, the valve enables precise control of fluids and cell integrity in microenvironments. Cell sorting: Supports sensitive cell sorting processes, improving sample integrity for various research applications.
Drug testing platforms: Ensures reproducibility and accuracy in microfluidic drug screening assays.
The custom distribution switch valve offers versatile applications in multiple fields requiring precise fluid handling, making it an essential component for both diagnostic and research advancements.
Our custom distribution switch valve exemplifies how tailored fluid handling solutions can address specific challenges in industries like oncology diagnostics and biomedical research. By offering precise flow control, reduced sample waste, and seamless system integration, our valve helps improve operational efficiency and data reliability.
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