title: Arduino-based automation of a DNA extraction system.
abstract: There have been many studies to detect infectious diseases with the molecular genetic method. This study presents an automation process for a DNA extraction system based on microfluidics and magnetic bead, which is part of a portable molecular genetic test system. This DNA extraction system consists of a cartridge with chambers, syringes, four linear stepper actuators, and a rotary stepper actuator. The actuators provide a sequence of steps in the DNA extraction process, such as transporting, mixing, and washing for the gene specimen, magnetic bead, and reagent solutions. The proposed automation system consists of a PC-based host application and an Arduino-based controller. The host application compiles a G code sequence file and interfaces with the controller to execute the compiled sequence. The controller executes stepper motor axis motion, time delay, and input-output manipulation. It drives the stepper motor with an open library, which provides a smooth linear acceleration profile. The controller also provides a homing sequence to establish the motor's reference position, and hard limit checking to prevent any over-travelling. The proposed system was implemented and its functionality was investigated, especially regarding positioning accuracy and velocity profile.
authors.affiliation: Department of Healthcare Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Korea.
authors.forename: Kyung-Won
authors.initials: KW
authors.lastname: Kim
authors.affiliation: Department of Healthcare Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Korea.
authors.forename: Mi-So
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Lee
authors.affiliation: Division of Biomedical Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Korea.|Research Center of Healthcare & Welfare Instrument for the Aged, Chonbuk National University, Korea.
authors.forename: Mun-Ho
authors.initials: MH
authors.lastname: Ryu
authors.affiliation: LabGenomics Co., Ltd, Korea.
authors.forename: Jong-Won
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Kim
mesh_terms: D001331:Automation / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004247:DNA / Q000032:analysis*; D004867:Equipment Design; D006801:Humans; D046210:Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008967:Molecular Biology / Q000295:instrumentation*
chemical_list: D004247:DNA
keywords: Arduino; DNA extraction; Molecular genetic test; automation