DNA separation cartridge patented

Microfluidic Systems Inc., a Fremont, Calif.-based company focused on the development of microfluidic systems for the automatic preparation of biological samples, has developed a cartridge designed to separate male and female DNA in forensic samples. The device enables the process to be automated and performed in a closed and disposable environment, reducing the possibility of cross-contamination. The company has been granted a US patent for the device, which it says will help speed up the processing of DNA in the backlog of rape identification cases.