A Novel Microfluidic System for Capacitive Detection Via Magnetophoretic Separation of Malaria-Infected Red Blood Cells

Abstract

Malaria continues to pose a significant global health challenge, with substantial impediments arising from the need for more reliable, effective, and economically viable diagnostic tools, particularly for early detection. This research introduces a novel microfluidic device designed for malaria-diagnostics through the detection of hemozoin (Hz), a prevalent biomarker for the disease. Our methodology involves the collection of a minimal blood sample, which is subsequently processed through a microfluidic system. This system exploits the paramagnetic properties of Hz to isolate infected blood cells using magnetophoretic separation. The detection process employs a relative capacitive measurement technique capable of quantifying Hz concentrations ranging from 417 $fM$ to 17 $pM$ , facilitating and enhancing malaria diagnosis. Simulations results confirm the efficacy of our device in providing a rapid, cost-effective, and readily producible diagnostic solution. This research demonstrates the potential of integrating advanced microfluidic technology and sensitive detection systems into a compact, portable unit, offering significant improvements over existing malaria diagnostic tools.