Microfluidic device with multiple microcoil NMR detectors enabling fluidic series communication

[0001] This application is a continuation of abandoned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/852,672, filed May 24, 2004, which corresponds to Patent Application Publication U.S. 2005/0030033 A1 published Feb. 10, 2005, which was a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/003,837, filed Dec. 3, 2001, which corresponds to Patent Application Publication 2002/0149369 A1 published Oct. 17, 2002 and is now U.S. Pat. No. 6,822,454 B2 which issued on Nov. 23, 2004 and which claims the priority benefit of Provisional Patent Application No. 60/250,874 filed Dec. 1, 2000.

[0002] The present invention is directed to microfluidic devices having multiple microcoil nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) detectors and, more particularly to microfluidic devices having improved microcoil NMR detectors for capillary-scale, high resolution NMR spectroscopy probes capable of enhanced sample processing functionality.

[0003] Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, or NMR, is a powerful and commonly used method for analysis of the chemical structure of molecules. NMR provides spectral information as a function of the electronic environment of the molecule and is nondestructive to the sample. In addition, reaction rates, coupling constants, bond-lengths, and two- and three-dimensional structure can be obtained with this technique.

[0004] Systems for biochemical, chemical, and molecular analysis can be miniaturized as capillary-based systems or substrate-based, i.e., micro-scale, systems with multifunctional capabilities including, for example, chemical, optical, fluidic, electronic, acoustic, and/or mechanical functionality. Miniaturization of these systems offers several advantages, including increased complexity, functionality, and efficiency. Devices can be fabricated from diverse materials including, for example, plastics, polymers, metals, silicon, ceramics, paper, and composites of these and other materials. Mesoscale sample preparation devices for providing microscale test samples are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,928,880 to Wilding et al. Devices for analyzing a fluid sample, comprising a solid substrate microfabricated to define at least one sample inlet port and a mesoscale flow channel extending from the inlet port within the substrate for transport of a fluid sample are described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,304,487. Currently known miniaturized fluid-handling and detection devices have not met all of the needs of industry.

[0005] NMR is one of the most information-rich forms of biochemical, chemical, and molecular detection and analysis, and remains highly utilized in a wide range of health-related industries, including pharmaceutical research and drug discovery. One of the fundamental limitations of NMR for these and other applications involves sample throughput. When compared to other forms of detection (e.g., mass spectrometry), the amount of sample required by NMR is generally orders of magnitude greater, and correspondingly the mass limits of detection are generally orders of magnitude poorer. Conventional NMR spectrometers typically use relatively large RF coils (mm to cm size) and samples in the ml volume range, and significant performance advantages are achieved using NMR microcoils when examining very small samples. Prior to such development of microcoil NMR and NMR flowprobes, NMR remained a test tube-based analytical technique requiring milliliters of sample and often requiring data acquisition times ranging from 10 min. to several hours for informative spectra with sufficient signal to noise ratio (“S/N”). NMR microcoils are known to those skilled in the art and are shown, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,654,636 to Sweedler et al., and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,684,401 to Peck et al., and in U.S. Pat. No. 6,097,188 to Sweedler et al., all three of which patents are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties for all purposes. A solenoid microcoil detection cell formed from a fused silica capillary wrapped with copper wire has been used for static measurements of sucrose, arginine and other simple compounds. Wu et al. (1994a), J. Am. Chem. Soc. 116:7929–7930; Olson et al. (1995), Science 270:1967–1970, Peck (1995) J. Magn. Reson. 108(B) 114–124. Coil diameter has been further reduced by the use of conventional micro-electronic techniques in which planar gold or aluminum R.F. coils having a diameter ranging from 10–200 .mu.m were etched in silicon dioxide using standard photolithography. Peck 1994 IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 41(7) 706–709, Stocker 1997 IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 44(11) 1122–1127, Magin 1997 IEEE Spectrum 34 51–61.

[0006] Miniature total analysis systems (μ-TAS) are discussed in Integrating Microfluidic Systems And NMR Spectroscopy—Preliminary Results, Trumbull et al, Solid-State Sensor and Actuator Workshop, pp. 101–05 (1998), Magin 1997 IEEE Spectrum 34 51–61, and Trumbull 2000 47(1) 1–6. The Trumbull et al. device integrated multiple chemical processing steps and the means of analyzing their results on the same miniaturized system. Specifically, Trumbull et al. coupled chip-based capillary electrophoresis (CE) with nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) in a μ-TAS system.

[0007] Capillary-based liquid chromatography and microcoil NMR have compatible flow rates and sample volume requirements. Thus, for example, the combination of the Waters CapLC™ available from Waters Corporation (Milford, Mass., USA) and the MRM CapNMR™ flow probe available from MRM Corporation (Savoy, Ill.), a division of Protasis Corporation (Marlborough, Mass., USA) provides excellent separation capability in addition to UV-VIS and NMR detection for mass-limited samples. The Waters CapLC™ has published flow rates from 0.02 μL/minute to 40 μL/minute. A typical CapLC on-column flow rate is 5 μL/min, the autosampler-injected analyte volume is 0.1 μL or more, and accurate flow rates are achieved through capillary of typically 50 μm inner diameter. The NMR flow cell has a typical total volume of 5 μL with a microcoil observe volume of 1 μL. A typical injected sample amount for CapLC-μNMR analysis is a few μg (nmol) or less.

[0008] Capillary scale systems also are shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,194,900, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. In such systems, a capillary-based analyte extraction chamber is connected to an NMR flow site, such as by being positioned as an operation site along a capillary channel extending to the NMR flow cell.

[0009] Small volume flow probes are shown, for example, by Haner et al. in Small Volume Flow Probe for Automated Direct-Injection NMR Analysis: Design and Performance, J. Magn. Reson., 143, 69–78 (2000). Specifically, Haner et al show a tubeless NMR probe employing an enlarged sample chamber or flowcell. Microcoil-based micro-NMR spectroscopy is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,654,636, 5,684,401, and 6,097,188, the entire disclosures of all of which are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Sample amounts can now range as small as several hundred microliters for conventional flowprobes to smaller than 1 uL for microcoil-based capillary-scale flowprobes. Acquisition times typically range from minutes to hours. The most expensive and technologically limiting component of the NMR system is the superconducting magnet. Although significant financial and technical investment has been made in the development of elaborate mechanical (robotic-controlled) sample changers and, more recently, automated flow injection systems for repetitive and continuous sample throughput, the magnet remains today a dedicated component in which only sequential, one-at-a-time analysis of samples is carried out.

[0010] NMR is one of the few analytical methods in which parallel data acquisition has not been applied to increase sample processing functionality, such as the number of samples that can be tested in a given time. At least some of the difficulties in accomplishing this objective are intrinsically related to the hardware involved in NMR data acquisition.

[0011] Recent academic results have shown that some of the limitations of NMR processing can be overcome by the use of multiple microcoil detectors in a wide-bore magnet. Proposed designs for incorporating multiple solonoidal microcoils into a single probe head are presented by Li et al. in Multiple Solenoidal Microcoil Probes for High-Sensitivity, High-Throughput Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, Anal. Chem., 71, 4815–4820, 1999. A dual channel probe for simultaneous acquisition of NMR data from multiple samples is shown by Fisher et al. in NMR Probe for the Simultaneous Acquisition of Multiple Samples, J. Magn. Reson., 138, 160–163 (1999). Such devices, however, have not been commercially implemented and have not been shown to be commercially viable. In addition, higher numbers of multiple microcoil detectors are needed that are compatible also with narrow bore magnets, since narrow bore magnets are predominant in industrial settings. There is also both need for and benefit of microcoil NMR probes having enhanced sample processing functionality.

[0012] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide multi-microcoil NMR microfluidic devices having enhanced sample processing functionality. It is a particular object of the invention to provide improved microcoil NMR detectors for capillary-scale, high resolution NMR spectroscopy probes that can be adapted in accordance with certain preferred embodiments for use in large or small bore magnets and that are capable of enhanced sample processing functionality. Given the benefit of this disclosure, additional objects and features of the invention, or of certain preferred embodiments of the invention, will be apparent to those skilled in the art, that is, those skilled in this area of technology.

[0013] In accordance with a first aspect, an NMR system comprises an NMR probe comprising multiple NMR detection sites. Each of the multiple NMR detection sites comprises a sample holding void and an associated NMR microcoil. The NMR system further comprises a controllable fluid router operative to direct fluid sample to the multiple NMR detection sites. In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, the multiple NMR sites are integrated in a probe module further disclosed below. In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, each of the NMR detection sites is in a capillary-scale fluid channel in the module. In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, each of the NMR detection sites is in a micro-scale fluid channel in the module. In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, the controllable fluid router is operative in response to an electrical input signal, especially to direct fluid sample to any selected ones of the NMR detection sites. In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, the NMR system further comprises a controller unit in communication with the router and operative to generate the input signal to the router. In certain embodiments the NMR system controller unit is operative to receive information from any of the multiple NMR detection sites and to generate the input signal to the router based at least in part on that information. In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, the NMR system further comprises a data processing unit which may be remote from the probe module or integral therewith. The data processing unit can provide the aforesaid input signal to the controllable router.

[0014] In accordance with a second aspect, an NMR probe comprises multiple NMR detection sites as disclosed above, each comprising a sample holding void and an associated NMR microcoil, and a controllable fluid router operative to direct fluid sample to the multiple NMR detection sites.

[0015] In accordance with another aspect, an NMR “smart probe” comprises multiple NMR detection sites, each comprising a sample holding void and an associated NMR microcoil, a controllable fluid router operative in response to an electrical input signal to direct fluid sample to the multiple NMR detection sites, and a controller unit in communication with the router and operative to generate the input signal to the router.

[0016] In accordance with another aspect, an NMR probe module is provided, e.g., a module suitable to be interchangeably (i.e., removeably and optionally reuseable) installed in certain preferred embodiments of the NMR probes disclosed above. Such probe modules comprise at least one fluid inlet port operative to receive a fluid sample, a fluid pathway comprising multiple channels in fluid communication with the inlet port, for the transport of fluid sample to be tested, multiple NMR detection sites, each in fluid communication with at least one of the multiple channels and each comprising a sample holding void and an associated NMR microcoil, and a controllable fluid router operative to direct fluid sample in the module to at least a selected one of the multiple channels.

[0017] The multiple NMR sites optionally can be optimized for different nuclear species and/or for 1 or 2 dimensional NMR study, e.g., the sites can be optimized similarly or differently, using different materials, such as fused silica and PEEK, fused silica and polytetrofluoroethylene and/or other suitable materials known to those skilled in those skilled in the art.

[0018] In accordance with another aspect, an NMR probe module comprises at least one fluid inlet port, operative to receive a fluid sample, a fluid pathway comprising multiple channels in fluid communication with the at least one fluid inlet port, for the transport of fluid sample to be tested, and multiple NMR detection cells, each in fluid communication with a corresponding one of the multiple channels. Each of the multiple NMR detection cells comprises an associated NMR microcoil and an enlarged void for holding a fluid sample. In certain preferred embodiments. the NMR probe module further comprises a controllable fluid router as disclosed above.

[0035] It will be recognized by those skilled in the art that numerous different embodiments of the systems, probes and modules disclosed here can be produced and used for various different applications. In capillary-based embodiments analyte sample fluid has a fluid flow rate typically less than about 5 μL/minute. In substrate-based, i.e., micro-scale, embodiments the analyte sample fluid has a fluid flow rate typically less than 1 μL/minute. In certain preferred embodiments, a miniaturized analysis system is employed for liquid phase sample analysis. Such embodiments, referred to in some instances here and in the appended claims as substrate-based, employ a microfabricated support body or manifold in the form of a cylinder, chip, laminated planar substrate or the like, insertable, e.g., removeably insertable, such as a set of interchangeable modules or the like. Typically in such embodiments the module has one or more straight or branched microfabricated microchannels and the probe has an inlet port for feeding fluid from an external source into the manifold. Multiple NMR detection sites each comprising an NMR RF microcoil in the module are in fluid communication with the inlet via one or more of the microfabricated microchannels. As used here, the terms “micro-scale” and “microfluidic” means the manifold operates effectively on micro-scale fluid samples, typically having volumes less than about 1 uL (i.e., 1 microliter), e.g., about 0.1 microliter to 1.0 microliter, and fluid flow rates less than about 1 uL/min, for example 100 nanoliters/min. The term “microscale” also refers to flow passages or channels and other structural elements of a substrate, e.g., a multi-layer laminated substrate. For example, 1 or more microchannels of a module substrate preferably have a cross-sectional dimension (diameter, width or height) between 500 microns and 100 nanometers. Thus, at the small end of that range, the microchannel has cross-sectional area of about 0.01 square microns. Such microchannels within a laminated substrate of the module, and chambers and other structures within the laminated substrate, when viewed in cross-section, may be triangular, ellipsoidal, square, rectangular, circular or any other shape, with at least one and preferably all of the cross-sectional dimensions transverse to the path of fluid flow is microscale. It should be recognized, that one or more layers of a laminated substrate may in certain embodiments have operative features, such as fluid channels, reaction chambers or zones, accumulation sites etc. that are larger than microscale. The modules disclosed here provide effective microcoil NMR devices and systems with good speed of analysis, decreased sample and solvent consumption, increased detection efficiency, and in certain embodiments disposable fluid-handling devices.

[0036] The multiple NMR detection sites preferably are used in systems further comprising one or more analyte extraction chambers. Thus, analyte fluid sample may be produced in an analyte extraction chamber and fed, directly or indirectly (i.e., with or without intervening processing or storage) to the multiple NMR detection sites. The detection sites may be used in parallel, in series or as alternatives to each other depending, e.g., on characteristics of the analyte sample. Optionally such characteristics may be determined by an operative component of the system, e.g., an operative component integrated on-board an embodiment of the probe modules disclosed here. The term “analyte extraction chamber” means a column or other operative zone or site or the like for focusing or concentrating analyte from a sample fluid into an analyte sample fluid, typically involving a many-fold reduction in fluid volume. The analyte extraction chamber may be in a separate or stand-alone device, e.g., an LC column, with fluid communication to the NMR probe via any suitable conduit, e.g., a fluid delivery tube controlled by an autosampler. The analyte extraction chamber preferably is a capillary-based analyte extraction chamber integrated into the NMR probe, e.g., as an operation site along a fluid channel extending within the probe to the NMR detection site or is integrated on-board a substrate-based module. Preferably, the analyte extraction chamber is operative to perform liquid chromatography, capillary electrophoresis, dynamic field gradient focusing, electric field gradient focusing or the like. In the case of an LC column in the form of a capillary-based analyte extraction chamber operative to perform solid phase extraction (SPE) or integrated into a substrate-based NMR probe (in some instances referred to here as an on-board LC chamber or on-board LC device), an analyte peak will be stepped off the column or other analyte extraction chamber, i.e., released into the NMR probe fluid channel, when the relative proportion of analyte solvent (e.g., an organic solvent) in the analyte sample fluid reaches a sufficient concentration.]

[0037] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 is a schematic representative of an electrofluidic system in accordance with the present disclosure. A multiplicity of sample management modules are in operative electrical and fluidic communication with a multiplicity of primary stage detectors, a peak management module, and a multiplicity of ancillary stage detectors. Sample introduction can be from a variety of introduction means well known to those skilled in the art, and may include autosamplers with or without additional means of solid phase extraction. In general, the flow of information and fluid transport depicted in FIG. 1 can proceed in either direction. For example, with the appropriate plumbing as understood by those skilled in the art, a storage loop used for sample introduction can be reused for sample storage, e.g. as a fraction collector at the end of the experiment. Furthermore, the figure should be considered sufficiently general as to represent the combination of any number of individual components, for example, the case where a single sample management module is used with a multiplicity of ancillary stage detectors. The sample management platforms are sufficiently sophisticated to be in operative electrical and fluidic communication with each other. One embodiment of this configuration is where each of the detection stages are NMR microcoil detectors. A preferred embodiment is where all detectors are integrated into the probe manifold but are not limited to NMR, e.g. UV, IR, and other NMR-compatible (predominantly non-magnetic) means of detection. The peak management module can include sample storage and routing capabilities, but can also include a means of sample management, e.g. solid phase extraction. In a most preferred embodiment, the components shown are predominantly integrated into a probe module, such as those of FIGS. 3–8, with intelligent control of the overall processes being directed at least in part by electrical and fluidic processing elements in (i.e., on-board) the probe, e.g. microprocessors in operative communication with the detectors and fluidic management components shown in the drawings.

[0038] FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the system of FIG. 1, including a means of sample management (Waters CapLC and Sparc autosampler) external to the NMR probe, a primary stage detector (Waters photodiode array) external to the NMR probe, and a capillary-based NMR detection probe in operative electrical and fluidic communication with the sample management system and with the NMR spectrometer for effective control of analysis through a computer external to the probe. In an alternative preferred embodiment, some or all of these components would reside in (i.e., on-board) the probe, or even be provided as micro-scale components integrated on-board a substrate-based module, thereby improving efficiency, electrical and fluidic integrity, and promoting integration and complexity.

[0039] FIGS. 3–8 show a key aspects of the NMR probe, i.e., exemplary NMR detection modules suitable for capillary-scale embodiments. The NMR detection modules would preferably contain a multiplicity of primary and/or ancillary NMR detectors, and would be in operative communication with the other elements of the system of FIG. 1. FIG. 3 shows a single detection site in a module, the detection site being defined here as a combination of a capillary having an enlarged region and a microcoil NMR detector associated therewith. FIG. 4 shows a cutaway view of another detection module embodiment, illustrating the microcoil wrapped on a capillary. FIG. 5 shows an enlarged region of fluidic pathway (inner diameter of the capillary). FIG. 6–8 show alternative preferred embodiments of geometrical positioning of multiple NMR detection sites or cells in a single detection module. Although five detection cells are illustrated, the concept presented herein applies generally to any number of detection sites in a module. Also, it should be understood that alternative embodiments of the probes and systems disclosed here may employ multiple modules.

[0040] FIG. 9–11 show representative embodiments of the NMR probes disclosed here. FIG. 9 shows a typical probe (wire frame mesh) and illustrates the orientation/position of the detection module relative to a module base. The module would be inserted upwardly (as viewed in the drawing) into an NMR magnet. FIG. 10 shows a module similar to FIG. 9 but having multiple detection sites or cells. FIG. 11 shows another similar probe, but having multiple operative components integrated into the probe, specifically, plug-in modules (PIMs). The PIMs can be in operatively in electrical communication and/or operatively in fluidic communication with one or more detection sites, and may contain fluidic (e.g., sample management, e.g. LC, CE, DFGF) processors or electrical (e.g. electronic, hardware, software, e.g. digital computer) processors.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 12, a laminated substrate of a substrate-based module is seen to comprise, a first plastic piece 10 and a second plastic piece 11 welded together by selective IR irradiation of either the plastic pieces or by irradiation of an optional EM absorbing substance 12. The substrate contains a channel 13 formed by welding of the two plastic pieces together. Optionally contained within the channel 13 is an environmentally sensitive element 14. The substrate may also contain other channels formed from welding the plastic pieces together. A second channel 15 is in close and continuous contact with an embedded microdevice 16. A port 17 provides communication from the channel to the top or bottom planar surface of the substrate. Additionally, an external device may be connected to the fluid-handling substrate through the port. An optional gasket 18 may be used to enhance the fluid-tight seal around the channel. An optional EM absorbing layer 19 may be placed anywhere along the surface of the substrate. FIG. 13 shows cross-sectional views of four alternative configurations for fluid channels in the probe module. Such channels may be formed, for example, by welding module layers e.g. plastic pieces together. Possible configurations include, but are not limited to, semi-circular 21, rectangular 22, rhomboid 23, and serpentine 24. The channel configurations are limited only by the thickness of the materials forming the fluid-handling substrate.

[0042] In accordance with one embodiment, a NMR probe module comprises a substrate defining at least one fluid inlet port, and a fluid pathway comprising multiple channels in fluid communication with the at least one fluid inlet port, for the transport of fluid sample to be tested; multiple NMR detection sites each in fluid communication with at least one of the multiple channels, each comprising a sample holding void, and an associated RF microcoil; and a controllable fluid router operative in response to an electrical input signal to direct fluid sample in the module to at least a selected one of the multiple channels corresponding to the input signal.

[0043] The module may be any size and shape suitable to the intended application. In a preferred embodiment the module may be placed in a housing that forms a housing of the probe. In certain embodiments the probe is tubular or finger shaped and/or boxed-shaped to match the representative forms of NMR probes, with for example, a diameter of about one inch and a height of about 20–30 inches. In certain embodiments the module is generally planer. The term “generally planer” means card or cartridge-like, optionally being curvo-planar or otherwise irregular, but otherwise typically being rectangular or right-cylindrical, and having a thickness less than about a third, preferably less then one quarter, more preferably less than one fifth e.g. about one sixth or less, the largest dimension of major (i.e. largest) surface of the substrate. Other embodiments will be apparent given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0044] The microfluidic nature of the NMR probe modules disclosed here provides significant commercial advantage over conventional (larger scale, e.g. larger than capillary) fluidic NMR systems. Less sample fluid is required, which in certain applications can present significant cost reductions, both in reducing product usage (for example, if the test sample is taken from a product stream) and in reducing the waste stream disposal volume. In addition, the microfluidic substrate assemblies can, in accordance with preferred embodiments, be produced employing MEMS and other known techniques suitable for cost effective manufacture of miniature high precision devices.

[0045] The module may be made of any number of materials. Examples include metals, plastics, and silica. In a preferred embodiment the manifold comprises a substrate formed at least in part of polyetheretherketone (PEEK). PEEK is a high temperature resistant thermoplastic. PEEK has superior chemical resistance allowing for its use in harsh chemical environments, and it retains its flexural and tensile properties at very high temperatures. Additionally, glass and carbon fibers may be added to PEEK to enhance its mechanical and thermal properties. In another embodiment the module is a multi-layered laminate. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0046] In accordance with other embodiments the module further comprises a fluid outlet port in fluid communication with the fluid pathway. In other embodiments the module further comprises a fluid reservoir in fluid communication with the fluid pathway.

[0047] The fluid inlet port is where a fluid sample to be tested is introduced to the module. The fluid inlet port is typically sized to accommodate the amount of sample being tested. The inlet port may have any number of shapes. Examples include circular, square, trapezoidal, and polygonal. The inlet port may or may not also include additional filtering for the fluid sample to be tested. In certain embodiments there may be multiple inlet ports. Further embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given this disclosure.

[0048] The fluid pathway transports the fluid sample to be tested though-out the module. In a preferred embodiment where the probe module is microfluidic the scale the multiple channels (sometimes referred to as microchannels) may be capillary in scale. The orientation of the channels may be any number of configurations. Examples include parallel, intersecting, overlapping, spiral, serpentine, and circular. The cross section of the channels may have any number of shapes as well. Examples include circular, square, trapezoidal, and polygonal. Further embodiments of size, shape, and orientation will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0049] The multiple NMR sites are provided to allow for increased functionality and/or throughput. With multiple NMR sites the user is able to perform multiple NMR tests simultaneously which increased the rate in which results may be obtained. Furthermore the NMR detection sites may be optimized for different types of testing allowing a single probe to be used for a number of tests. In some embodiments each NMR site maybe in fluid communication with multiple channels of the fluid pathway. In accordance with preferred embodiments, the NMR detection sites further comprise matching capacitors and tuning capacitors, fluid connectors and data transmission means such as signal carrying leads or the like. An example of an NMR detection site can be seen in FIG. 14. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0050] The multiple NMR detection sites may be optimized using different materials. In a preferred embodiment the multiple NMR detection sites are made of fused silica and PEEK. In another preferred embodiment the multiple NMR detection sites are made of fused silica and Teflon. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0051] In a preferred embodiment the sample holding void is cylindrical in shape but it may also have any number other shapes, most notably spherical. Examples of cross-sectional configurations include round, rectangular, triangular, etc. In a preferred embodiment the sample holding void is 5 um to 500 um, more preferably 25 um to 50 um. In a preferred embodiment the microcoil surrounds around a portion of the void. Preferably the microcoil is made of copper but may be made of any number of other conductive or super-conductive materials depending on the desired properties. The microcoil typically is 250 um to 1 mm in axial direction. In preferred embodiments the microcoil may be helical, solenoidal or spiral and in other preferred embodiments the microcoil may be planar. Other embodiments of coil geometry will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0052] In the NMR probe module configuration disclosed here, each of the NMR detection sites is separate and therefore, optionally, can hold unique samples for testing. In this regard, the probe modules integrate a multiplicity of detectors with greater functionality enhancement than would be achieved by wrapping a multiplicity of detection coils around a single sample. The microcoil, void, and sample are magnetically matched, and the NMR detection sites in accordance with preferred embodiments are operative to obtain high resolution NMR spectra. The microcoil is positioned to within 1 mm, more preferably to within less than 100 um of the sample boundary. The incorporation of multiple microcoils and multiple corresponding voids complicates magnetic matching, but will be within the ability of those skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure and applying known principles. Preferably, at least one detection coil is optimized for high resolution proton detection, whereas other coils may be optimized for heteronuclear or multi-dimensional homonuclear experiments. In two-dimensional experiments such as correlation spectroscopy (COSY) or total correlation spectroscopy (TOCSY), and in heteronuclear experiments the digital resolution in the f1 dimension is relatively coarse (typically 128–256 data points). The number of data points in the f2 dimension (typically 512) is, therefore, considerably reduced compared to one-dimensional experiments, and the acquisition time is similarly reduced (˜200 ms at 250 MHz, and shorter at higher operating frequencies). Consequently, the resolution requirements of coils intended for 2-D acquisition is considerably lower due to the larger spectral linewidths (typically 2–4 Hz) in 2-D experiments. For example, in an embodiment with 2 detection sites, a primary coil can be optimized for resolution while a secondary coil can be optimized for heteronuclear acquisition.

[0053] The functionality of the NMR probe module is dependent, in part, upon the reception of separate signals from the individual coils (and impedance matching networks) that comprise the NMR detection site. Regardless of the form of signal acquisition (independent acquisition using multiple receivers, or time-multiplexed acquisition using RF switches), quasi-simultaneous acquisition demands a high degree of isolation between the microcoils and matching circuits at each nuclear frequency of interest. The coils can be positioned with spatial separation and orthogonal geometric orientation to reduce coupling. Similarly, the impedance matching circuits can be shielded and positioned in the probe in such a manner to reduce coupling.

[0054] In accordance with another preferred embodiment, the timing constraints of a multiplexed system for NMR applications (where timing is a critically important parameter) can be addressed by the use of a multiple transceiver NMR spectrometers.

[0055] This advance of high potential significance is made technically possible due to the relative size of the RF microcoil (typically 1 mm diameter) when compared to the overall size of the (shimmed) region of field homogeneity in the NMR magnet. Magnets are typically designed for conventional RF coils and samples as large as 1 cm in diameter and extending (vertically) several centimeters in length. By reducing the size of the RF coil by as much as 10-fold, the possibility of incorporating several coils into one magnet becomes feasible. The order-of-magnitude advantages in mass sensitivity (when compared to conventional NMR probes) achieved using a NMR probe module disclosed here, and the chromatographic resolution that can be achieved and maintained (e.g. when employing liquid chromatography for sample preparation) at the capillary-scale have been extensively documented.

[0056] Important advantages obtained by employing preferred embodiments of the NMR probe module disclosed here include high throughput due to parallelism of detectors, while retaining the inherent gains in mass sensitivity and chromatography afforded at the capillary size scale and using microcoils, individual optimization of RF coil sensitivity to different nuclei (1H, 1H{15N}, 1H{13C}, etc.), e.g. where peaks are routed sequentially through a series of optimized detectors (thereby saving the money and time associated with use of multiple probes while still preserving uncompromised sensitivity, time optimization of data acquisition, e.g. by using a dedicated coil for rapid 1-D analysis while reserving another for 2-D, longer acquisition NMR experiments, and the creation of a platform for eventual integration o intelligent sample manipulation and NMR analysis, whereby the directed routing of analyte peaks can be accomplished based upon the content of the peak (using an appropriate sample management technology).

[0057] Li et al. (Li 1999 Anal. Chem. 71 4815–4820) describes a 4-coil assembly illustrative of certain aspects of the present disclosure. The solenoidal microcoils (diameter=360 :m, length approx. 1 mm) are mounted on horizontal (transverse to B₀) capillaries with a 90 degree rotation (x, y) and 5 mm vertical spacing between adjacent coils. Additional details of basic construction are known generally, as shown in the Li et al reference mentioned above and incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. The NMR probe modules disclosed here differ from such earlier devices in having multiple detectors, each having a detection site, i.e., as described above, void in the capillary microchannel to receive a test sample, and having an NMR microchannel aligned therewith.

[0058] It is generally preferred to immerse the diamagnetic wire of the microcoil in a diamagnetic matching medium with magnetic susceptibility equal to that of the wire. Suitable software is commercially available for use in determining determine inter-coil spacing, coil orientations, and other geometrical tradeoffs for optimum resolution, for example, Maxwell 3D (Ansoft Corporation, Pittsburgh, Pa.). Preferably, greater than 30 dB RF isolation is achieved between coils. Coil-to-coil coupling would result in cross-talk and interference in the received signals. RF coupling is typically minimized by geometrically positioning electrical components so that the orientation of the magnetic and/or electric fields in adjacent components are orthogonal. Adjacent components are also placed as far apart as is practical to maintain functionality but minimize coupling.

[0059] Shielding (via insertion of a conducting plane) can be used effectively for elimination of electric field coupling, albeit at the expense of an increased effective resistance (and noise) due to induced eddy currents in the shield. The increased resistance typically manifests as a lowered quality factor (Q) for the resonant circuit. Magnetic field coupling is more difficult to restrict, as the lines of magnetic flux close upon themselves. In non-magnetic environments, high permeability (mu) metals are employed, but these materials are precluded in NMR due to their effect on field homogeneity. Preferably a combination of orientation and spacing for minimization of coupling are used. Preferably the matching networks are spatially separated in the probe. FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary probe layout demonstrating spatial and electrical separation of RF impedance matching circuit components, e.g. to achieve isolation in 1H/2H circuits. The NRM probe modules disclosed here preferably employ a multi-level geometry, where adjacent matching networks can be shielded using copper sheets or the like, that isolate the electric fields of one matching circuit on one level of the probe from those of another on a different level of the probe. Circuit modeling, e.g., using a commercial RF package such as Linc2 available from Applied Computational Sciences (Escondido, Calif.) can be employed to help guide the design. A variety of options exist for further probe modification, including the incorporation of additional shielding to partition adjacent circuits on the same level.

[0060] The NMR probe module may have each of the multiple NMR detection sites optimized differently with any of the combinations discussed above or any other that may be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure. FIG. 16 shows two sample holding voids in fluidic series. Specifically, in the embodiment of FIG. 16, a first sample detection site 40 and a second sample detection site 41 are seen to be in fluidic series with each other. Each of the fluidic series NMR detection sites 40 and 41 is seen to have associated with it a corresponding microcoil. FIG. 17 shows a pair of NMR detection cells 50, 51 in accordance with a preferred embodiment. The cells 50, 51 are in fluidic series with each other along a capillary tube and are shown without associated coils.

[0061] The microchannels and associated NMR microcoils can be formed in a module, preferably a multi-layer substrate, such as a laminated multi-layer substrate, e.g., a selectively welded multi-layer substrate as disclosed in copending U.S. patent application Ser. No. 60/239,010 filed on Oct. 6, 2000, relevant portions of the disclosure of which are set forth immediately below in the fifteen paragraphs section “Laminated Multilayer Substrates”. Microlithographic microcoils can be employed in such laminate substrates, such as those disclosed in the above-mentioned U.S. Pat. No. 5,684,401, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes. Alternatively, or in addition, one or more of the multiple NMR detector sites formed in the probe can be formed in a finger or peninsula-type extension of the substrate, and the microcoil can be formed as a separate 3-dimensional structure fitted over such substrate projection. It will be within the ability of those skilled in the art, that is, those skilled in this area of technology, given the benefit of this disclosure, to employ alternative suitable fabrication techniques for production of the multi-microcoil NMR detection probes disclosed here.

[0062] Laminated Multilayer Substrates: The fluid handling devices disclosed here may be conveniently constructed by forming the flow passages and separator in the surface of a suitable substrate layer, such as a layer of flexible or rigid plastic or other material, and then laminating the adjacent layer to the first layer. Micromachining technology is known, which is suitable for the manufacture of at least certain embodiments or certain portions of the microfluidic substrate assemblies disclosed here, having elements with minute dimensions, ranging from tens of microns to nanometers. A portion of one or more substrate microchannels may be formed in one or more of the substrate layers, such that the complete channel is only formed when the layers are joined together. The pieces are joined together in a fluid-tight manner to seal the channel, e.g., to form a closed (i.e., fluid-tight) periphery for the channel, such as for the transport of fluids. Closing or welding the pieces together to form and seal the channels can be accomplished in a number of known ways. One such method involves assembling, i.e., positioning the pieces together and heating the assembly to the melting point, or at least the softening point, of one or both of the pieces (or all of the pieces where more than two pieces are assembled together). Adhesive methods also are known for assembling the miniaturized fluid-handling substrates.

[0063] Microfluidic substrate assemblies disclosed here, having a multi-layer laminated substrate, can be designed and fabricated in large quantities using known micromachining methods. Such methods include film deposition processes, such as spin coating and chemical vapor deposition, laser machining or photolithographic techniques, e.g. UV or X-ray processes, etching methods which may be performed by either wet chemical processes or plasma processes LIGA processing and plastic molding. See, for example Manz et al., Trends in Analytical Chemistry 10:144–149 (1991). More generally, the design and construction of microfluidic substrate assemblies disclosed here can commence with computer aided design of the device. Optionally, rapid prototyping of the device can be performed, e.g., using laser machining and micro-milling to quickly produce small quantities. Production quantities are advantageously produced using LIGA and electroforming techniques to produce a master, such as a nickel metal master. The master can be used in the production of relatively large numbers of units through injection molding and embossing techniques. Finished devices typically will require additional production steps, such as coating, packing and filling steps in accordance with known manufacturing techniques.

[0064] In accordance with certain preferred embodiments selective welding is accomplished by IR radiation. The substrate formed in this way has one or more internal fluid channels, and may be essentially planar or block-like in configuration. Also, the substrate assembly may be welded or otherwise joined to other pieces or components, such as to form a cartridge to be inserted into a corresponding socket or port to form fluid-tight seals with fluid lines communicating with a process line carrying fluid to be analyzed or detected or the like. The selective welding of substrate pieces together, e.g., two or more planar plastic pieces to be stacked together and selectively welded to form seals establishing fluid-tight channels within the resulting body, utilizes IR radiation, laser or the like, on the areas of the plastic pieces to be joined. This process is usually done by positioning two substrate pieces in direct and continuous contact with one another and subsequently exposing the pieces to radiation.

[0065] Taking a preferred embodiment of plastic substrate layers to illustrate this aspect, one of the plastic or other material pieces may be transparent to the radiation while the other is opaque to radiation. Alternatively a radiation absorbing material can be dispersed within one of the plastic pieces, either selectively in the area to be welded or throughout the body of the material forming the piece. Alternatively a radiation absorbing material can be coated on the surface of one or both of the pieces, either selectively in the area to be welded or all over. Where selective absorption is not established, the use of focused or masked radiation or the like can be used to accomplish the selective welding. It should be recognized that selective welding of an interface between two substrate pieces assembled together may in some embodiments include irradiation and welding of the entire interface. The disadvantages discussed above of thermal welding are still avoided, since it is not necessary to heat the substrate assembly in its entirety to the melting or welding temperature. It is the joint region or interface of the two plastic pieces that is exposed to radiation, forming the selective weld. Again using plastic substrate pieces to illustrate this aspect, the radiation from a laser beam or other radiation source can pass through a transparent plastic piece and into an opaque plastic piece. Melting of the opaque plastic piece results as the incident radiation is absorbed by the opaque plastic piece. Removal of the radiation results in cooling and formation of a weld between the two plastic pieces.

[0066] In published PCT application No. WO 00/20157, a method of forming a weld between two workpieces is taught, one of the pieces being opaque and the other being transparent to radiation. It also teaches a method of providing a radiation absorbing material at the joint region of the two workpieces, where both plastic pieces are transparent, in order to form a weld between them. Infrared radiation (IR) bonding has been used to join plastic articles, as in U.S. Pat. No. 6,054,072, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. The use of such techniques in the methods disclosed here and the advantages in the methods disclosed here will be apparent to those skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0067] The plastic components of the fluid-handling substrate described herein are preferably made of, but not limited to, materials selected from the group consisting of polysulphone, PEEK, polyfluoroethylene (PFE), polycarbonate, ceramic, Teflon, stainless steel, polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), pyrex, soda glass, CVD diamond, PZT, silicon nitride, silicon dioxide, silicon, polysilicon, Au, Ag, Pt, ITO, and Al. PEEK is a preferred material for the plastic pieces and components to be made from because it is chemically inert and is insoluble in all common solvents. It is also resistant to attack by a wide range of organic and inorganic chemicals. PEEK has excellent flexural, impact, and tensile characteristics. PEEK is especially advantageous because it has a low glass transition temperature (Tg) and will weld at a temperature that will not lead to the distortion, warping, or destruction of environmentally sensitive elements contained within the plastic pieces. Additionally, PEEK allows for visualization during the welding process and for visual inspection of the seals created by the welding process.

[0068] The substrate contains a channel formed by welding of the two plastic pieces together. The cavities or chambers within the plastic pieces that form the channels (after the plastic pieces are welded together) can be formed into the plastic pieces using any method known in the art including, but not limited to, UV-embossing, heat-embossing, laser ablation, injection molding, CNC micro-milling, silicon micro-machining, focused ion beam machining, wet etching, and dry etching. The channels can be of a large variety of configurations, such as, a straight, serpentine, spiral, or any path desired. Also, a wide variety of channel geometries including, but not limited to, semi-circular, rectangular, rhomboid, and serpentine can be formed and are limited only by the thickness of the materials forming the fluid-handling substrate. The channels may be one dimensional or multidimensional (two-dimensional or-three dimensional). As used herein, the term one dimensional channel means a channel that runs along a single axis aligned with the plane of the substrate. The term multidimensional channel, as used herein, means a channel that runs along two or more axes, perpendicular to each other, in the plane of the substrate. The resulting dimensional aspects and architecture of the channels are especially sensitive to high temperature conditions because they can warp to the point at which they would no longer be functional or maintain the desired shape.

[0069] As disclosed above, in certain preferred embodiments a microchannel is formed in the multi-layer laminated substrate at the interface of two layers. It is an advantageous aspect of these preferred embodiments that the layers are effectively welded or otherwise joined to form a fluid-tight seal along the periphery of the channel. A fluid-tight seal is a seal in which the channels do not leak fluid, that is, substantially no fluid can enter or exit the channels through the sealed periphery, but rather only through fluid communication ports provided. It will be understood from this disclosure, that such fluid ports can be positioned at any convenient location in the surface of the substrate, taking into account the need to provide fluid channels within the substrate to the port. The port may be located on either a major surface or on any side surface, hereafter referred to as a minor surface, of the substrate. An embedded microdevice can be contained within a second channel or chamber. Both fluid channels can be formed by and at the interface of the two substrate layers. The port and microchannel can be any suitable configuration, such as, straight, serpentine, spiral etc. Also, a wide variety of port geometries including, but not limited to, semi-circular, rectangular, and rhomboid can be formed and are limited only by the thickness of the materials forming the fluid-handling substrate.

[0070] Additionally, as discussed below, the port may in certain preferred embodiments be employed as a docking site for a component-on-board, i.e., an external device mounted to the substrate for increased functionality, more specifically, a mounted component that will be in fluid communication with a microchannel in the substrate. A gasket 18 may be used to form or enhance a fluid-tight seal between a mounted component-on-board and the surface of the substrate. A gasket, as referred to herein, may be an “O” ring carried by the mounted component or by suitable structure of the substrate. In certain preferred embodiments, curable gaskets are employed at the mounting site of an on-board component. Such gaskets can be usefully formed of radiation absorbing materials, such as plastics or metals, and preferably have a lower Tg than the adjacent materials of the substrate and on-board component. After the component is positioned on the substrate the gasket at the joint between them is subjected to actinic or curing radiation. Also, suitable gaskets can be microformed on or in the surface of the laminated substrate and/or the surface of the component to be mounted. A gasket can also be employed that covers the entire contact surface of the substrate and the component.

[0071] Assembly of the fluid-handling substrate occurs as the substrate pieces are welded together and the channels are preferably sealed using selective EM welding techniques, such as selective IR welding. Selectively welded, as used herein, refers to a weld that produces a fluid-tight seal surrounding the channels in the plastic pieces or components of the fluid-handling substrate. The selective welding is preferably done substantially in the area immediately surrounding the channel the weld is intended to seal. However, this does not exclude any welding location that may create a fluid-tight seal. The most preferable welding methods include, but are not limited to, IR dosage (pulsed, continuous, intensity, frequency/bandwidth), IR delivery (spot, flood), thermal conditions (workpiece, platen(s), pick tools), ultrasonic agitation, or pressure. The chambers or cavities responsible for forming the channel after the pieces have been welded together can be machined into the plastic pieces using any method known to those skilled in the art. The welding of the plastic pieces is done by first aligning the major surface of the first plastic piece and the major surface of the second plastic piece using mechanical means. Next, an EM beam is applied through the surface of the transmissive plastic piece. The EM opaque first plastic piece will absorb the energy of the EM, and heat will be generated causing the surface of the plastic pieces to melt or soften. The melted surface will cool, and the plastic pieces will then be welded forming a channel with a fluid-tight seal.

[0072] In accordance with preferred embodiments, the plastic pieces and gaskets are preferably made of PEEK as this material provides for the possibility of visual or optical inspection of the weld and resultant fluid-tight seal. Additionally, other properties of PEEK make its use desirable. PEEK has superior chemical resistance allowing for its use in harsh chemical environments. PEEK retains its flexural and tensile properties at very high temperatures. Additionally, glass and carbon fibers may be added to PEEK to enhance its mechanical and thermal properties. One advantage of using PEEK in the assembly of a fluid-handling substrate, as discussed above, is that the selective IR welding process may be visually or optically monitored, as PEEK is a clear and colorless material. Therefore, the fluid-tight seals that are created, using the selective IR welding process, may be inspected prior to further assembly or distribution of the fluid-handling substrate. If upon visual or optical inspection it is determined that the seal is not a fluid-tight seal, additional selective welding can be performed prior to testing of the fluid-handling substrate, thus the ciuality of the assembled fluid-handling substrate is much higher than those produced using current methods.

[0073] In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, joining of plastic pieces and sealing of channels can be accomplished with a focusable EM beam, such as a laser. As used herein, the term focusable EM beam refers to any light source where the size of the light incident on the surface is very small when compared to the overall size of the surface, whereas an EM beam refers to any light source that may illuminate a significant portion or all of a surface. An advantage of using a focusable beam includes direction of the radiation away from any areas that might be damaged from the radiation, such as those areas containing an environmentally sensitive component, for example. A fluid-tight seal may then be created without risking damage to the environmentally sensitive component. The focusable beam may also be coupled with the use of a dye for time scheduled selective welding. As used herein, time scheduled selective welding refers to using different dyes between each layer, or coated on or contained within different portions, of the fluid-handling substrate. Two or more dyes can be used to ensure only those areas containing the appropriate dye are welded together. In this illustrative example, two dyes, Epolight 5010 and Epolight 6084, both from Epolin, Inc. (Newark, N.J.). are coated independently on different portions of the fluid-handling substrate to be assembled. Epolight 5010 has a maximum liaht absorption at about 450 nm while Epolight 2057 has a maximum absorption at about 1064 nm. Therefore, radiation having a wavelength of 1064 nm. such as an infrared laser, would only be absorbed by the Epolight 2057, and only the areas of the fluid-handling substrate containing the Epolight 2057 would be welded together. A different radiation source having a wavelength of about 450 nm, such as an argon laser, would be reciuired to weld any areas containing the Epolight 5010. One skilled in the art would recognize that a focusable EM beam could be used in combination with multiple dyes for time selective welding and increased protection of environmentally sensitive components. Additionally, a tunable dye laser could be used to provide rapid switching of the incident wavelength and thus providing more rapid means for the selective welding process and completion of assembly of the fluid-handling substrate. Additional materials suitable for use as IR absorbing materials include high temperature dyes, also available from Epolin, Inc.: Epolight 3079, Epolight 4049, Epolight 3036, Epolight 4129, Epolight 3138, and Epolight 3079.

[0074] In the event that the pieces of the substrates are both EM transmissive, the pieces may be coated with a substance that is EM opaque. The EM absorbing substance may be any substance capable of absorbing the incident radiation. Preferred EM absorbing substances include, but are not limited to, dyes and pigments, for example. Epolight 5010, Epolight 5532, Epolight 6034, and Epolight 1125, all from Epolight. Inc., (Newark, N.J.). FIG. 4 shows a possible configuration for assembly of the fluid-handling substrate where both pieces of the substrate are EM transmissive. When joining plastic pieces that are all EM transmissive, it is necessary to either coat the surface of one or more of the plastic pieces with an EM absorbing substance to form an EM absorbing layer, incorporate an EM absorbing substance into at least one of the plastic pieces. EM interfaces, composed of any EM absorbing substance such as dyes or dye-containing substances, can be created by contrasting administration regimes including, but not limited to spin-coating, micro-dispensing, and micro-contact transfer printing. A coating of an EM substance is first applied to a major surface of the first or second plastic piece or both. The plastic pieces are then aligned using mechanical means. An EM beam is applied through the surface of one of the transmissive plastic pieces so that radiation is incident on the coating. Heating and subseciuent cooling of the EM coating results in welding of the two plastic pieces together, and formation of a channel with a fluid-tight seal. A gasket may be used to further enhance the effectiveness of the fluid tight seal.

[0075] An aspect of preferred embodiments is a method for assembly of a fluid-handling substrate comprising environmentally sensitive components, as discussed above. For additional protection of the environmentally sensitive components, the stacked plastic pieces can be masked with an EM absorbing substance and only the unmasked portions are exposed to the EM radiation and, therefore, only those locations are heated to seal the plastic pieces. The use of blocking materials confers spatially and/or temporarily selective protection/deprotection of the environmentally sensitive components in the channels from the EM. These methods prevent the environmentally sensitive element from becoming heated and subsequently destroyed by the heat from the sealing process. A gasket placed around the resulting channel acts to increase the effectiveness of the fluid-tight seal. If a focusable EM beam is used, as discussed above, the aligned plastic pieces can be moved in relation to the EM beam to facilitate joining of the correct positions on the plastic pieces. Alternatively, the beam can be moved in relation to the aligned plastic pieces. These two methods allow for greater control over the portions of the fluid-handling substrates that are irradiated, heated, and sealed.

[0076] The radiation necessary to weld the plastic pieces together may be administered using several different methodologies including, but not limited to, fiber delivery, controlled spot size and controlled spot intensity, seam forming, and large area rastering. Preferred joining methodologies for the plastic pieces and/or components include IR dosage, IR delivery, thermal conditions, ultrasonic agitation, and pressure. The EM radiation source may be any type of EM source, including commercially available lamps or lasers. The EM radiation most preferable is infrared radiation (IR) with the JR source preferably being infrared lasers or infrared heat bulbs having tungsten filaments and integral parabolic reflectors. The EM source may optionally include lenses that vary the focal point of the beam. The EM source is generally positioned and tuned to project the EM beam that passes through the lens and onto the plastic pieces mating surfaces. It will however, be realized that any EM source may be used providing a suitable EM absorbing material is available, and, if appropriate, one plastic piece is transmissive to the EM used. As discussed previously, selective IR welding effects assembly of the fluid-handling substrate while preventing damage to any environmentally sensitive components contained within the substrate.

[0077] The controllable fluid router, which may be referred to as a form of a sample management engine, is operative in response to an electrical input signal to direct fluid sample in the module to at least a selected one of the multiple channels corresponding to the input signal. The fluid router may direct all or part of the fluid sample to one, multiple, or all of the channels in the fluid pathway. There are many ways the router could be implemented. For example, in one embodiment the router may consist of individual valves for each channel of the fluid pathway that are individually controlled by an electrical input signal. In another embodiment the router may perform cross routing of sample from one channel to another and be controlled entirely by one input signal. In a preferred embodiment the fluid router is a sample management engine to selectively deliver and, optionally, selectively withdraw fluid samples from the microchannels of the probe. Preferably samples are fed into the microchannel of one or more of the probe's multiple detectors at a flow rate sufficiently low to maintain laminar flow. In another embodiment, the fluid routing functionality can be incorporated into one or more sample management modules. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0078] In accordance with another embodiment the controllable router receives the electrical input signal from a controller unit. The controller unit may be any number of devices including, for example, a circuit, computer, microprocessor or microcontroller. The controller unit may be located remotely or be incorporated in the module. The controller may optionally be connected to various sensor units as discussed in this specification. The input signal delivered by the controller unit may be software or hardware generated. The controller may or may not be in direct or indirect communication with the NMR sites.

[0079] In accordance with another embodiment the NMR sites are in communication with a data processing unit. The data processing unit may be any number of devices including, for example, a circuit, computer, or microprocessor. The data processing unit may be located remotely or be incorporated in the module. The data processing unit may optionally be connected to various sensor units as discussed in this specification. The controller may or may not be in direct or indirect communication with the fluid router.

[0080] In some embodiments the module probe may have both the controller unit and the data processing unit. In other embodiments the controller unit and data processing unit are in communication with each other. In still other embodiments one device, for example, a computer performs the functions of both. In another example, a microprocessor incorporated into the module performs the functions of both devices. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0081] In accordance with another embodiment, connectivity between the NMR detection sites and the controllable fluid router comprise a feedback and control link. That is, sample data acquired from the NMR detection site is processed and fed back to the fluid router as the feedback element to tie the specific steps of the fluid router to the NMR detector site. In certain preferred embodiments, data acquired from one NMR detection site of the probe module is output by the system, optionally as one of multiple output signals to control some aspect of the system, especially, e.g., to determine further operation of the probe on a sample or samples, such as whether microcoil NMR tests and/or or other action(s) or storage of the sample should be conducted or other operations of the probe module performed. Especially significant in this regard is the electronic connection (e.g., by hard wire connection, wireless connection etc.) of the NMR probe to a data processing/controller unit that is responsive to the signals generated by the NMR detection site corresponding to the NMR test data generated by the sample. The data processing/controller unit advantageously is responsive to the signals, programmed to detect and electronically recognize or identify molecular structure or analyte composition (e.g., by automatic comparison of NMR data against a pre-stored database of such data), and to act automatically on at least selected possible test results (e.g., those pre-flagged in the database with any of several possible values corresponding to different follow-on actions initiated by the controller. In accordance with preferred embodiments, the data processing/controller unit is responsive to the test data signal to direct storage, disposal or movement of the sample from the current NMR detection site to selected other NMR detection sites and/or other analytical sites or components of the system, e.g., by causing pumping of volume corresponding to the length of the flow path to the other site, and/or by controlling gates for selecting amongst multiple possible flowpaths.

[0082] A wide array of sample management forms may be employed in operative communication with the probe. The probe module may operatively communicate with a larger system that performs sample preparation. In one embodiment the module is connected to or part of a liquid chromatography system. In another embodiment the module is connected to or part of a capillary electrophoresis system. In another embodiment the module is connected to or part of a dynamic filed gradient focusing system. In some embodiments the sample preparation may also be incorporated in the probe module as discussed in this specification. In certain preferred embodiments wherein the channels and associated NMR microcoils are formed in a module, a liquid feed line (inside diameter preferably 5 microns to 500 microns, more preferably 25 to 50,) may connect to a port sited in the surface of the module from any of numerous commercially available sample management engines can be used, such as the Capillary Liquid Chromatography system from Waters Corporation, Milford, Mass., USA. As discussed further below, capillary-LC/micro-NMR systems are especially preferred embodiments of the system aspect of this disclosure. Peaks and/or samples, preferably already conditioned, purified, concentrated, etc., coming into the probe from the separation engine would be routed accordingly. Examples of such systems can be seen in FIG. 2.

[0083] In accordance with certain preferred embodiments, peaks and/or samples, optionally already conditioned, purified, concentrated, etc., are fed into the probe from a separation engine and are routed to the appropriate NMR detection site or, optionally may be “siderailed” until later analysis can be complete with the same coil or directed to a separate detection coil for essentially parallel analysis. That is, samples may be “siderailed” within the multi-microcoil NMR detection probe, either before or after any NMR analysis has been performed on it. Analysis may be performed on the siderailed sample at that time or at a later time. Later analysis may be performed with the same microcoil already used or the sample may be directed to a different coil for essentially parallel analysis. Any of the channels of the probe may be branched or otherwise provide one or more stations at which a sample can be stored. Preferred embodiments of the probe use a controllable router for releasably or permanently retaining a sample in a void within the NMR detection site, or other retainer or plug suitable to prevent unintended loss of the sample during testing or storage. Similarly, samples can be moved externally of the probe, from the void of one channel to that of another channel within the probe.

[0084] Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0085] In accordance with a highly innovative aspect of certain preferred embodiments of the invention, a multi-detector microcoil NMR probe as disclosed above receives a test sample and retains it for delayed or further future testing. Especially in such applications as proteomics and the like, where typically only a minute quantity of a particular analyte is available, storage in the micro-scale NMR detection site of the probe module avoids unwanted additional transfers of the analyte and provides a secure and protective storage site that readily facilitates future testing. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0086] In accordance with another embodiment, a NMR probe module comprises at least one fluid inlet port, a fluid pathway comprising multiple channels, in fluid communication with the at least one fluid inlet port, for the transport of fluid sample to be tested; at least one operative component in communication with the fluid pathway, multiple NMR detection sites each in fluid communication with at least one of the multiple channels, each comprising as sample holding void, and an associated RF microcoil; and a controllable fluid router operative in response to an electrical input signal to direct fluid sample in the module to at least a selected one of the multiple channels corresponding to the input signal.

[0087] The operative component can be any number of devices that interact with the fluid in the module including, for example, sensors, sample preparation devices, pumps, heaters, coolers, ultrasonic devices and even additional NMR sites. The operative component may also be any number of devices that do not interact with the fluid. Examples, for instance, include microprocessors, micro-controllers and memory module. In some embodiments the operative component is in electrical communication with the controllable gate. In certain preferred embodiments the operative component is incorporated into the probe, e.g., integrated on-board the module. In other preferred embodiments the operative component is selectively removable. Having the operative component selectively removable allows for swapping of different operative components allowing for greater configuration flexibility. In other embodiments the operative component is in communication with the one or more of the NMR detector sites. The operative device may also optionally in communication with a controller unit, a data processing unit or both. In other embodiments there may be multiple operative components in any of the configuration discussed above or below, which may or may not be in communication with each other. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0088] In one embodiment the operative component is an IR detector, a photodiode array or the like. In still another embodiment the operative component is a UV visibility array. In some embodiments the operative component is an LC device. In other embodiments the operative component is a CE device. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0089] In some embodiments the operative component is a pump. In other embodiments the operative component is a heating device. In still other embodiments the operative component is a sonication device. In another embodiment the operative component is a reaction site. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0090] In embodiments with a microprocessor or micro-controller the operative component may act as a controller unit, a data processing unit, or both. In embodiments where the operative device is a memory module the device may store data about the probe such as its configuration, when and where it was made, etc. In other embodiments the memory module may store data from the NMR sites or other operative components incorporated into the module. Other embodiments will be apparent to one skilled in the art given the benefit of this disclosure.

[0091] In accordance with another aspect, an NMR probe module comprises a substrate defining at least one fluid inlet port, operative to receive a fluid; fluid pathway; and multiple NMR detection cells. In certain preferred embodiments the NMR probe module further comprises a controllable fluid router as described above. The fluid pathway comprises multiple channels and is in fluid communication with the inlet port. The multiple NMR detection cells are each in fluid communication with at least one of the multiple channels of the fluid pathway. Each NMR detection cell comprises an enlarged void for holding a fluid sample, and an associated microcoil. The controllable fluid router is operative in response to an electrical input signal to direct fluid sample in the module to at least a selected one of the multiple channels corresponding to the input signal. Preferably the NMR detection cell comprises at least one RF detector microcoil associated with an enlarged void, that is, an enlarged sample chamber in a capillary, or channel. The inner diameter of the channel enlarges to form the enlarged void, preferably with conical tapering at each end of the void. The void may extend axially in the channel beyond the microcoil. Optionally, one or more of the multiple channels in the NMR probe module forms more than one enlarged void, each with an associated NMR microcoil. In accordance with preferred embodiments, the inner diameter of the channel on either side of the enlarged void is 5 um to 500 um, more preferably 25 um to 50 um, the conical taper of the channel at each end of the void preferably is at an angle to the longitudinal axis of about 5 to 75 degrees, e.g., about 30 degrees, and the inner diameter of the enlarged void between the conically tapered portions preferably is substantially uniform and from 100 um to 1 mm, more preferably 250 um to 800 um. The microcoil is positioned to axially surround the void, typically being about 250 um to 1 mm in the axial direction.