Centrifugal-assisted sample preparation techniques: Innovations and applications in bioanalysis

Abstract

Sample preparation is a critical and resource-intensive phase of bioanalysis. The centrifuge is the most commonly used equipment in clinical research and practice for isolating cells and particles from liquid matrices during the sample preparation procedure. Currently, centrifugation is seamlessly integrated with a number of miniaturized techniques to improve extraction efficiency, reduce processing time, eliminate procedural complexity, enhance sample throughput, and reduce costs. We comprehensively review the advancements in centrifugation-assisted sample preparation techniques from various perspectives, while highlighting the advantages and limitations, as well as their diverse applications. The basics of each technique are presented. In particular, we present several commercially available devices that enable centrifugal filtration, spin-tips, spin columns, and centrifugal microfluidics. Future directions for the refinement and wider use of centrifugal force assisted techniques in bioanalytical methods are critically discussed.