Controlled drug release in a microfluidic device with droplet merging and storage functions

This paper reports a new microfluidic device with droplet merging and storage functions for the controlled release of drugs with nanostructured capsules. The drug model is MnCO₃ microparticle coated with a nanostructured capsule using a simple layer-by-layer nanoassembly process. The merging function is used for dynamically adding the control solution into the droplets containing drugs. The storage chambers are used for collecting droplets so that the controlled drug release in specific droplets can be monitored for an extended period of time. This technical platform will facilitate the long-term observation of drug effects on specific cells, thereby greatly benefiting the drug screen and discovery.