PCR on a PDMS-based microchip with integrated bubble removal

We report on the successful manufacturing and operation of the first PDMS-based PCR microreactor with continuous on-chip debubbling. A semipermeable membrane between the PCR chamber and a low-pressure chamber allows air bubbles to escape from the PCR chamber, while preventing significant water loss, thus solving one of the major problems in on-chip PCR. Moreover, a novel PDMS microfabrication process for the PCR chip is described. Finally we demonstrate successful on-chip PCR amplification.