Optical-Bio Microsystems Lab

Visionary detailing in miniaturization illustrates the research boom in the field of medicine. Through the miniaturization of medical devices, advancements like pocket-sized glucose monitors and life-saving pacemakers have become feasible. At the Optical Bio-Microsystems Laboratory (OBML), we focus on developing lab-on-chips for various medical diagnostics and point-of-care applications. Our research ranges from developing lab-on-chip technology for early-stage cancer detection to exploring green energy extraction from microalgae. With the advantage of microfluidics, which allows the manipulation of chemicals and live organisms in a microenvironment, our vision is to miniaturize hospital functionalities at our fingertips! Our lab has pioneered exosome technology in extraction, purification, and quantification. With cutting-edge technology at our disposal, we have characterized several cancer cell lines. Additionally, we have explored the interaction of nanoparticles with exosomes. Our research concentrates on developing paper-based microfluidic devices aimed at enhancing food safety. Our findings reveal that employing paper as a substrate allows for the evaluation of critical food safety parameters, such as pH levels, the presence of spoilage microorganisms, and time-temperature indicators. Through these microfluidic devices, we have created are particularly well-suited for portable food safety and quality testing applications, providing a straightforward yet effective solution for rapid assessments. Research avenues we explore at our lab include cancer research, exosomes, extracellular vesicles, micro-photosynthetic power cells, 3D printing, additive manufacturing, and optical devices for high-speed communications. Principal Investigator: Professor Muthukumaran Packirisamy