Digital Analysis of Molecular Analytes Using Single Molecule Detection

Abstract

Methods and systems are provided for small molecule analyte detection using digital signals, key encryption, and communications protocols. The methods provide detection of a large numbers of proteins, peptides, RNA molecules, and DNA molecules in a single optical or electrical detection assay within a large dynamic range.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61 / 869,020. The entire teachings of the above application are incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Technical Field[0003]This disclosure relates to the fields of diagnostics and communications theory, and specifically relates to methods for digital analysis of molecular analytes.[0004]2. Description of the Related Art[0005]Multiple molecular and biochemical approaches are available for molecular analyte identification and quantification. Examples include commonly used nucleic acid based assays, such as qPCR (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) and DNA microarray, and protein based approaches, such as immunoassay and mass spectrometry. However, various limitations exist in current analyte analysis technologies. For example, current methods have limitations of sensitivity, especially where analytes are present in biological samples at ...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention provides systems and methods for detecting multiple analytes on a substrate using ordered probe reagent sets. These sets include probes directed to specific target analytes that are immobilized on the substrate. The probes are detectable labeled and can be used in a variety of detection methods such as fluorescence or electrical signals. The system can detect the presence or absence of the target analytes by detecting signals from the substrate. The method involves performing multiple cycles of probe binding and signal detection, with each cycle using a different probe set. The detected signals are used to determine the presence or absence of the target analytes. The invention can be computer implemented and the kit includes instructions for detecting the target analytes and the type of probe reagent sets used. The invention can be used in various applications such as detecting target analytes in a sample or identifying the type of target analyte.

Problems solved by technology

However, various limitations exist in current analyte analysis technologies.

For example, current methods have limitations of sensitivity, especially where analytes are present in biological samples at low copy numbers or in low concentrations.

However, amplification techniques introduce biases and inaccuracies into the quantification.

Moreover, amplification is not possible for protein and peptides.

Due to lack of sensitivity, approaches for detection and quantification often require relatively large sample volumes.

Current methods are also limited in their capacity for identification and quantification of a large number of analytes.

In addition, current technologies lack the capability to detect and quantify nucleic acids and proteins simultaneously.

Current methods often generate errors during analyte detection and quantification due to conditions such as weak signal detection, false positives, and other mistakes.

These errors may result in the misidentification and inaccurate quantification of analytes.

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