Molecular Diagnostics
Lab-on-a-chip technology is applied in different forms of DNA research, such as DNA assays to size, create and quantitate PCR fragments or DNA microarrays to determine the sequence genomes. The excellent optical properties, inertness, smoothness and shelf-life make glass an ideal material for these applications.
The molecular diagnostic industry is expected to grow due to;
- An aging population (especially in developed countries)
- A need for decreasing healthcare costs
- Incorporation of more molecular based tests
- Personalized medicine