Pure and Applied Chemistry

Abstract: There is no formal terminology used to describe the scope and use of microtechnology in the clinical laboratory. For many laboratory scientists, the word "microchip" is synonymous with high-density microarrays used primarily for investigating gene expression. The document proposes a system of "categories" and "descriptors" that facilitates the classification of a device in a way that communicates details of its function and analytical role, and describes the analytical principle involved and the methods and materials used for its manufacture. Adoption of this system would enable scientists to employ four descriptors that clearly delineate the function, analytical role, and chemical or physical principle involved in the device. Examples of existing commercial devices are given to illustrate the utility of the system.