908 Devices revolutionary biomolecular analysis with the ZipChip, manufactured by Micronit

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Jul 8, 2024
Reading time: 3 minutes

In the fast-moving field of life sciences, scientists need to quickly and accurately analyze complex biological samples. However, traditional methods for preparing these samples were often slow and gave inconsistent results. This slowed down progress and made it difficult for researchers. 908 Devices, an innovative technology company, faced this challenge. They wanted to revolutionize how scientists study and understand tiny biomolecules. Doing so could lead to breakthroughs in developing new drugs and understanding diseases better. All made possible through a single microfluidic chip, the ZipChip.

Pushing the Boundaries of Sample Preparation

When 908 Devices set out to revolutionize mass spectrometry analysis, they faced a critical challenge: finding an efficient and reliable way to prepare and analyze complex biological samples. Traditional methods were often time-consuming and prone to inconsistencies, preventing accurate and rapid analysis. To address this challenge, 908 Devices developed the ZipChip, a breakthrough consumable that streamlines sample preparation and analysis for mass spectrometry.

The ZipChip® platform prepares and separates a wide range of biological samples, then electrosprays them into the mass spectrometer for analysis. The secret to its success lies in the microfluidic technology embedded within the chip. Etched channels within the glass chip enable rapid sample injections directly into the separation channel, culminating in a fully integrated electrospray ionization emitter. This integrated system provides the speed and efficiency inherent in capillary zone electrophoresis separations, enabling scientists to analyze tiny biomolecules in unprecedented detail.

"With our ZipChip Consumable, our customers can streamline their sample preparation and analysis workflow," said Kevin McCallion, VP Production and NPI at 908 Devices. "The unique microfluidic design eliminates junctions and dead volumes, ensuring high analytical quality and improved repeatability. By eliminating injection bias, our customers can achieve consistent and reliable results, saving valuable time and effort."

"The ZipChip has revolutionized the sample preparation and analysis workflow," continued McCallion. "With its integrated microfluidic technology, our customers can rapidly prepare and analyze even the most complex biological samples with unprecedented sensitivity and accuracy, enabling them to achieve results that were simply not possible with traditional methods."

"Thanks to the smart design of the chip, the impact on life science research is immense," said Remco de Jong, Business Development Manager at Micronit. It's a privilege to contribute to pioneering products like the ZipChip from 908 Devices. "

Precision Engineering and Collaborative Approach

In collaboration with Micronit, a trusted partner with valuable expertise in microfluidics, 908 Devices developed two distinct chip architectures, each tailored to specific applications. The ZipChip Consumable, an essential component of the ZipChip product, required consistent quality to ensure reliable outcomes in the tests performed by 908 Devices' customers.

Our shared passion for microfluidics allowed us to speak the same language and quickly transition to production, delivering a high-quality solution that enables 908 Devices' customers to push the boundaries of what's possible," said De Jong. "Micronit's ability to optimize for manufacturing glass consumables and bring the products to volume was crucial for our product," said McCallion. "The consistency of quality is key because it is essential for our customers to have reliable outcomes in tests they perform with the chips. Micronit understands this and is able to deliver the same high quality over and over."

The partnership with Micronit allowed 908 Devices to leverage Micronit's expertise in optimizing microfluidic devices for manufacturing and volume production, ensuring consistent quality and reliable performance of the ZipChip Consumable.
"Working with Micronit has been a valuable experience," added McCallion. "Their deep understanding of microfluidics and manufacturing processes has been instrumental in bringing our ZipChip to life and meeting the demanding quality standards required for our customers' critical applications."