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The most widely used amplification technique for pathogen detection—PCR—also plays a vital role in genomics research, food and water quality monitoring, and species identification. This Tech Talk describes how The Lee Company’s extensive selection of miniature 2-way and 3-way control solenoid valves elevate PCR-based testing to the highest level of reliability and flexibility.
Rapid and accurate amplification of nucleic acids (NA) for pathogen detection is critical in today’s global health environment. The most widely used amplification technique—PCR—also plays a vital role in genomics research, food and water quality monitoring, and species identification. Even if the target NA is present, adequate PCR amplification for detection is not guaranteed without delicate and rigorous sample preparation and transport. Intricate and precise miniature fluid handling is required to reduce assay time, improve test specificity, and achieve faster, more accurate results. In molecular testing, the challenge is the microscale of volumes in which these temperature-sensitive reactions take place.
The Lee Company’s extensive selection of miniature 2-way and 3-way control solenoid valves are ideal for the precise piloting of extremely small sample and reagent volumes throughout the molecular diagnostic process. Our High-Density Interface (HDI®) valves are very compact in size and offer many advantages, including ultra-low power consumption, minimal leakage, and low internal volume. Electrical drive flexibility and various standard mounting configurations provide off-the-shelf versatility for optimizing multi-valve manifolds within challenging instrument footprints.
Precision control of sample movement enables accurate and reliable analysis, purification, and extraction; this improves the chances of successful PCR amplification and amplicon detection. The near-zero leakage rating and low internal volumes of our control valves provide repeatable, reliable sample piloting; this ensures minimal pump demand, reduces cross-contamination, and improves throughput. Ultra-low power consumption provides battery savings in portable devices and minimizes heat contribution to thermally sensitive reactions. Manifold mount options—plug-in or face mount style—allow compact multi-valve arrays; soft-tube ported valves can be mounted easily in standalone functions (for example, pump inlet, selector valve, etc.).
Whether in a point-of-care or hospital setting, hand-held or bench-top device, Lee control valves elevate PCR-based testing to the highest level of reliability and flexibility. Microfluidic cartridges have become increasingly miniaturized; HDI solenoid valves precisely pilot DNA and RNA samples through their complex channels, in and out of reaction and detection chambers. Our valves also have an extensive pedigree in air-over-gasket applications where rapid control of vacuum and air pressure pulses is critical for the control of isolated fluid movement. Our magnetically latched LHL Series valves hold their flow state when power is turned off. This is ideal for battery-powered instruments—in particular those headed for remote regions of the world where there is a dire need for accurate PCR-based molecular testing.
The Lee Company has been at the forefront of fluid control technology since 1948, supplying millions of innovative products worldwide from our state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Connecticut, USA. We transform complex problems into deliverable solutions through ongoing research, design, development, and our commitment to quality and innovation. Our in-depth application knowledge enables us to collaborate with customers and to provide personal, technical support through a wide network of experienced sales engineers who are ready to address any challenge.
Always verify flow calculations by experiment.
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