A PDMS-based digital PCR chip with vacuum aspiration and water-filling cavity integrated for sample loading and evaporation reduction

We report a novel Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) based digital PCR (dPCR) chip with an integrated dual-function cavity that accelerates sample loading before the reaction and reduces water loss during thermal cycles. Neither an external pump nor a degassing setup such as a vacuum chamber is needed for sample loading. A regular syringe is sufficient for sample delivery and partition. In addition, the sample loading time is shortened to four minutes and the water loss in the reaction chamber is reduced to a negligible level. Therefore, this novel chip would provide an effective and affordable solution for on-site detection.