The application of magnetic bead-based microfluidic technology in nucleic acid extraction

Purpose Leveraging its advantages, microfluidic technology has become a crucial platform for nucleic acid analysis. The magnetic bead method, which processes nucleic acids by directly manipulating magnetic bead complexes, demonstrates unique value in microfluidic nucleic acid handling. The purpose of this paper is to understand the future trends of magnetic bead-based microfluidic technology in nucleic acid extraction applications. Design/methodology/approach First, this paper reviews the regulation mechanisms of magnetic beads in microfluidic systems. Subsequently, it explores the application of magnetic bead-based microfluidic technology in nucleic acid extraction from the perspectives of four physical fields, namely, magnetic, centrifugal inertial, acoustic and electric field. In addition, it briefly analyzes the application of this technology in point-of-care testing (POCT) for nucleic acids. Findings The four physical fields, namely, magnetic, centrifugal inertial, acoustic and electric field, can respectively optimize the key steps in the nucleic acid extraction process, thereby enhancing the extraction efficiency, purity and level of automation. Originality/value This paper innovatively sorts out and classifies the existing microfluidic systems for nucleic acid extraction from the perspective of physical fields.