Microfluidic strategies for extraction and preconcentration of proteins and peptides

Abstract Extraction and preconcentration of proteins and peptides especially from complex matrices represent one of the major challenges in many bioanalytical fields. Thanks to miniaturization that led to the development of integrated and automated microanalytical platforms, microfluidic technology is currently the best choice to meet this challenge. With advances in microfluidics, many on-chip strategies have been proposed for selective extraction and preconcentration of targeted proteins and peptides. This chapter presents a brief overview of this topic through selected papers published after 2009. Concentration strategies discussed in this chapter include electrokinetic methods such as field-amplified sample injection, isotachophoresis, and isoelectric focusing. Solid support methods based on the incorporation of monolithic materials, beads, and membranes are also discussed. Additionally, emerging approaches are briefly explored. The chapter concludes with remarks and future perspectives of this developed field.