Patent ID: 8148159
Filing Date: 2012-04-03
Classification: G01N,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for extending long molecules from a coiled configuration to an extended configuration comprising: a substrate; a fluidic channel defined on the substrate; a cover disposed on the substrate, covering at least a portion of the fluidic channel and forming a lumen; a sample entry portion; a sample exit portion; a constricting section defined within at least a portion of the fluidic channel; a porous barrier disposed proximally and upstream of the constricting section of the fluidic channel wherein pore sizes at an upstream side of the porous barrier are about equal to one persistence length of the molecules passing through the barrier, and wherein pore sizes increase to multiple persistence lengths at a downstream side of the porous barrier; and electrodes adapted to apply an electric field in a direction substantially along the length of the fluidic channel such that an electric field gradient is established within the constricting section, wherein the fluidic channel connects the sample entry portion to the sample exit portion.