Thermal reaction device and method for using the same

Abstract

An M×N matrix microfluidic device for performing a matrix of reactions, the device having a plurality of reaction cells in communication with one of either a sample inlet or a reagent inlet through a via formed within an elastomeric block of the device. Methods provided include a method for forming vias in parallel in an elastomeric layer of an elastomeric block of a microfluidic device, the method comprising using patterned photoresist masks and etching reagents to etch away regions or portions of an elastomeric layer of the elastomeric block.

1 . (canceled) 
     
     
         2 . A high density microfluidic device comprising
 a first layer containing flow channels and a second layer containing flow channels;   a first flow channel in the first layer, said first flow channel in fluidic communication with a first inlet;   a second flow channel in the second layer, said second flow channel in fluidic communication with the first flow channel;   a third flow channel in the second layer, said third flow channel in fluidic communication with a second inlet;   wherein the second and third flow channels both cross over the first flow channel; and   wherein the second and third flow channels are in fluidic communication through a fourth flow channel in the second layer.   
     
     
         3 . The microfluidic device of  claim 2 , wherein the second flow channel and the third flow channel are about parallel to each other and are substantially perpendicular to the first. 
     
     
         4 . The microfluidic device of  claim 2 , wherein the microfluidic device comprises a plurality of first, second, third, and fourth flow channels and each first flow channel is in fluid communication with the plurality of second flow channels. 
     
     
         5 . The microfluidic device of  claim 2 , wherein the first and second layers comprise an elastomeric material. 
     
     
         6 . The microfluidic device of  claim 2 , wherein at least one of the flow channels is partitioned into a plurality of separate chambers by one or more valves, said valves being formed in said microfluidic device such that a deflectable membrane(s) can be deflected into said sample channel to partition said sample channel into one or more separate chambers.