Molecules used to detect biomarkers in bodily waste

Abstract

Apparatus and methods for use with bodily excretions of subjects and a toilet bowl (23) containing water are described. More than one molecule (27) is disposed on a substrate (26), each molecule comprising an epitope (29) configured to target a biomarker and a color reporter molecule (31) conjugated to the epitope (29). The color reporter molecule is configured to undergo a color change from a first color to a second color in response to a reaction distance of the biomarker in the water within the toilet bowl (23). Other applications are also described.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 548,651, filed February 1, 2024, entitled "Biosynthetic markers for detection of biomarkers in bodily emissions," which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The field of implementation of this disclosure Some applications of this disclosure generally relate to the analysis of bodily excretions. Specifically, some applications of this disclosure relate to apparatus and methods for detecting biomarkers in the bodily excretions of subjects.

[0003] background Substances indicating certain conditions may be found in human bodily excrement. Some of these conditions apply to both male and female subjects.

[0004] For example, a subject’s urine, feces, vaginal fluid, saliva, nasal mucus, mucus, sputum, sweat, and / or tears may contain one or more physical properties, chemical compounds, and / or microscopic components that indicate an underlying condition.

[0005] Implementation Plan Overview According to some applications of this disclosure, the substrate includes one or more molecules disposed thereon. For example, said molecules include biosynthetic molecules, chemical molecules, antibodies, etc. For some applications, the substrate is flushable in the toilet bowl. For example, the substrate may include toilet paper, wipes (such as facial wipes), tampons, flushable pads, hygiene products, and / or different types of substrates. For some applications, the molecules include reporter-conjugated epitopes configured to target biomarkers that may be present in the subject's bodily excretions (e.g., urine, feces, vaginal fluid, saliva, nasal mucus, phlegm, sweat, and / or tears).

[0006] Intramolecular epitopes are conjugated to color reporter molecules. For some applications, color reporter molecules are configured to undergo a reaction in the presence of a biomarker, producing a color change or color appearance. For example, color reporter molecules are configured to undergo conformational changes, enzymatic reactions, and / or immunochemical reactions in the presence of a biomarker to produce a color change or color appearance. For some applications, color reporter molecules are configured to form color-producing complexes with biomarkers, and / or color reporter molecules are configured to undergo a reaction in the presence of biomarkers to form clusters, aggregates, or precipitates that produce a color change.

[0007] In some embodiments, the molecule is configured such that if the targeted biomarker is present in the body excrement, then (a) the epitope binds to the targeted biomarker, (b) thereby bringing the biomarker within the reaction range of the color reporter molecule, and (c) the aqueous environment of the water in the toilet bowl causes the biomarker to react with the color reporter molecule, causing the color reporter molecule to undergo a color change. For some applications, the color change is detected by a sensor.

[0008] For some applications, intramolecular epitopes and physical properties other than color are configured to undergo changes in the response distance of a biomarker as it enters an aqueous environment. For example, physical properties may include changes in impedance, changes in the attenuation of sound waves by the molecule, and / or changes in the microwave activity of the molecule. For some applications, one or more sensors are configured to detect such changes in the physical properties of the molecule. For some applications, a computer processor receives signals from one or more sensors and analyzes the received signals.

[0009] For some applications, the substrate is configured to receive bodily excretions within the molecular reaction distance through interaction between the subject and the substrate, such as by the subject wiping themselves (or being wiped) with the substrate. For example, when toilet paper is used as a substrate, the subject's feces and / or urine enter the molecular reaction distance through the subject wiping themselves with toilet paper. Alternatively, when facial wipes or tissues are used as a substrate, the subject's saliva, nasal mucus, phlegm, sweat, tears, and / or other excretions from the subject enter the molecular reaction distance through the subject wiping themselves with the substrate. Also alternatively, when toilet paper, tampons, or rinseable pads are used as a substrate, the subject's vaginal fluid enters the molecular reaction distance by placing the substrate in contact with or near the subject's vagina. For some applications, the substrate is placed separately from the bodily excretions in the toilet bowl. For example, the subject may place the substrate in the toilet bowl before, during, and / or after urinating and / or defecating, allowing the bodily excretions to enter the molecular reaction distance of the substrate within the toilet bowl.

[0010] As described above, for some applications, the aquatic environment of the water in the toilet bowl causes biomarkers to react with color reporter molecules, resulting in a color change from a first color to a second color. Therefore, although bodily excrement enters the reaction distance of the molecules by wiping itself with the substrate, the color change only occurs when the substrate is in the toilet bowl. For some applications, the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting the color change of the color reporter molecules, rather than simply detecting the presence of the second color of the color reporter molecules. For some embodiments, by detecting the color change rather than the presence of the second color, the computer processor can detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker in the bodily excrement more accurately (e.g., with higher specificity and / or sensitivity). Alternatively, the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting the presence of the second color of the color reporter molecules, even if no color change has been detected on the substrate.

[0011] Therefore, according to some embodiments of this disclosure, a device is provided for use with bodily excrement of a subject and a toilet bowl containing water, the device comprising: Base; More than one type of molecule is disposed on the substrate, each molecule containing an epitope configured to target a biomarker and a color reporter molecule conjugated to the epitope. Color reporter molecules are configured to undergo a color change from a first color to a second color in response to the reaction distance of a biomarker in the water in the toilet bowl.

[0012] In some implementations, the substrate includes toilet paper, which is configured to receive the subject's feces and / or urine within the molecular reaction distance in response to the subject wiping himself with the toilet paper.

[0013] In some implementations, the substrate is configured to receive the subject's saliva within the molecular reaction distance in response to the subject wiping themselves with the substrate.

[0014] In some implementations, the substrate includes a substrate selected from the group consisting of toilet paper, tampons, sanitary products, and rinseable pads, and the substrate is configured to receive the subject's vaginal fluid within a molecular reaction distance in response to the interaction between the subject and the substrate.

[0015] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target iodine.

[0016] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

[0017] In some implementations, the epitopes are configured to target biomarkers indicating whether a female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal, and the biomarkers are selected from the group consisting of: 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2).

[0018] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target a biomarker indicating the menstrual cycle of a female subject, the biomarker being selected from the group consisting of pregnanediol glucuronide (PdG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

[0019] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA).

[0020] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood of a male subject having prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

[0021] In some implementations, epitopes are configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood that a subject has cancer.

[0022] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood that a subject has a sexually transmitted disease.

[0023] In some implementations, epitopes are configured to target a given pathogen within body excretions.

[0024] In some implementations, epitopes are configured to target one or more inflammatory biomarkers within body excretions.

[0025] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target B-type natriuretic peptide in the urine of the subject.

[0026] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target troponin in the urine of the subject.

[0027] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target amniotic fluid.

[0028] In some implementations, the device also includes a trap configured to trap substrate inside the toilet bowl when the toilet bowl is flushed.

[0029] In some implementations, the trap is configured to release the substrate after a given time period even if the subject does not take any further action.

[0030] In some embodiments, the device further includes one or more sensors and at least one computer processor, the one or more sensors being configured to be arranged in the toilet bowl and receive light from the toilet bowl, and the at least one computer processor being configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of biomarkers in bodily excrement based on the light detected by the one or more sensors.

[0031] In some implementations, the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of a biomarker by detecting color changes in color reporter molecules.

[0032] In some implementations, the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of a biomarker by detecting the presence of a second color of the color reporter molecule.

[0033] In some implementations, the computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of the biomarker based on the intensity of the light signal received by one or more sensors at a second color of the color reporter molecule.

[0034] In some implementations, the computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of the biomarker based on the time it takes for the substrate to undergo a color change.

[0035] According to some implementations of this disclosure, a method is also provided, including: The subject’s bodily excretions are placed within the reaction distance of a substrate on which more than one type of molecule is arranged, each of which contains an epitope configured to target a biomarker and a color reporter molecule conjugated to the epitope. By placing a substrate in water in a toilet bowl, the biomarker (if present in bodily excrement) reacts with color reporter molecules, causing the color reporter molecules to undergo a color change from a first color to a second color; and Drive the sensor to detect light inside the toilet bowl.

[0036] In some implementations, the substrate includes toilet paper, and placing the subject's bodily excretions within the reaction distance of the substrate includes the reaction distance through which the subject's feces and / or urine enter the molecules via the interaction between the subject and the toilet paper.

[0037] In some implementations, placing the subject's bodily excretions within the reaction distance of the substrate includes the reaction distance through which the subject's saliva enters the molecules via interaction between the subject and the substrate.

[0038] In some implementations, the substrate includes a substrate selected from the group consisting of toilet paper, tampons, sanitary products, and rinseable pads, and placing the subject's bodily excretions within the reaction distance of the substrate includes the reaction distance through which the subject's vaginal fluid enters the molecules via interaction between the subject and the substrate.

[0039] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target iodine.

[0040] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

[0041] In some embodiments, the epitope is configured to target biomarkers indicating whether a female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal, the biomarkers being selected from the group consisting of: 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2).

[0042] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target biomarkers that indicate the menstrual cycle of a female subject, said biomarkers being selected from the group consisting of pregnanediol glucoside (PdG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

[0043] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA).

[0044] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood of a male subject having prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

[0045] In some implementations, epitopes are configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood that a subject has cancer.

[0046] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood that a subject has a sexually transmitted disease.

[0047] In some implementations, epitopes are configured to target a given pathogen.

[0048] In some implementations, epitopes are configured to target one or more inflammatory markers.

[0049] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target troponin in the urine of the subject.

[0050] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target amniotic fluid.

[0051] In some implementations, the epitope is configured to target B-type natriuretic peptide in the urine of the subject.

[0052] In some implementations, the method further includes using at least one computer processor to detect the presence and / or concentration of biomarkers in bodily excrement based on light detected by one or more sensors.

[0053] In some implementations, detecting the presence and / or concentration of biomarkers in bodily excrement based on light received by one or more sensors includes detecting the presence and / or concentration of biomarkers by detecting color changes in color reporter molecules.

[0054] In some implementations, detecting the presence and / or concentration of biomarkers in bodily excrement based on light received by one or more sensors includes detecting the presence of a second color of a color reporter molecule.

[0055] In some implementations, detecting the presence and / or concentration of biomarkers in bodily excrement based on light received by one or more sensors includes detecting the concentration of biomarkers based on the intensity of light signals received by one or more sensors at a second color of the color reporter molecule.

[0056] In some implementations, detecting the presence and / or concentration of biomarkers in bodily excrement based on light received by one or more sensors includes detecting the concentration of biomarkers based on the time required for the substrate to undergo a color change.

[0057] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, a device for use with bodily excrement of a subject and a toilet bowl containing water is also provided, the device comprising: Base; More than one type of molecule is arranged on the substrate, each molecule containing an epitope configured to target a biomarker and a molecule conjugated to the epitope. The detectable physical properties of the molecule are configured to change in response to the reaction distance of the biomarker in water entering the toilet bowl.

[0058] This disclosure will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Brief description of the attached diagram Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a substrate of molecules used to detect biomarkers in the bodily excretions of a subject, according to some applications of this disclosure; Figure 2A , Figure 2B , Figure 2C and Figure 2D This is a schematic diagram of a trap for collecting substrate inside a toilet bowl, based on some applications of this disclosure; and Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps involved in analyzing the urine of a subject in some applications according to this disclosure.

[0059] Detailed description of the implementation plan Now for reference Figure 1 , Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an apparatus 20 for detecting biomarkers according to some applications of this disclosure. As shown, for some applications, apparatus 20 includes a sensor module 22 disposed inside a toilet bowl 23. For some applications (not shown), the sensor module (and / or other components of the apparatus) is integrated into the toilet bowl. The sensor module includes one or more sensors 24. For some applications, the sensors include imaging components such as an RGB camera, a spectral camera, and / or a hyperspectral camera. Optionally or additionally, one or more sensors may include one or more light sensors. Also optionally or additionally, one or more sensors may include radar (e.g., ultra-wideband radar) and / or ultrasonic transducers.

[0060] For some applications, the sensor is used in conjunction with a substrate 26 comprising one or more molecules 27 disposed thereon. These molecules include, for example, biosynthetic molecules, chemical molecules, antibodies, etc. For some applications, the substrate is flushable in the toilet bowl. For example, the substrate may include toilet paper, wipes (such as facial wipes), tampons, flushable pads, hygiene products, and / or different types of substrates.

[0061] In some embodiments, molecule 27 includes a reporter-conjugated epitope 29 configured to target a specific biomarker that may be present in the subject's bodily excretions (e.g., urine, feces, or sweat). The epitope within the molecule is conjugated to color reporter molecule 31. For some applications, the color reporter molecule is configured to undergo a reaction in the presence of the biomarker to produce a color change or color appearance. For example, color reporter molecule 31 is configured to undergo a conformational change, enzymatic reaction, and / or immunochemical reaction in the presence of the biomarker to produce a color change or color appearance. For some applications, color reporter molecule 31 is configured to form a color-producing complex with the biomarker, and / or the color reporter molecule is configured to undergo a reaction in the presence of the biomarker to form clusters or aggregates or precipitates that produce a color change.

[0062] In some implementations, the molecule is configured such that if the target biomarker is present in bodily excrement, then (a) the epitope binds to the target biomarker, (b) thereby bringing the biomarker within the reaction distance of the color reporter molecule, and (c) the aqueous environment of the water in the toilet bowl causes the biomarker to react with the color reporter molecule, causing the color reporter molecule to undergo a color change. For some applications, the color change is detected by sensor 24.

[0063] For some applications, intramolecular epitopes and physical properties other than color are configured to undergo changes in the response distance of a biomarker as it enters an aqueous environment. For example, physical properties may include changes in impedance, changes in the attenuation of sound waves by the molecule, and / or changes in the microwave activity of the molecule. For some applications, sensor 24 includes a sensor configured to detect such changes in the physical properties of the molecule.

[0064] For some applications, a computer processor receives signals from one or more sensors and analyzes the received signals. Depending on the application, the computer processor performing the analysis described herein is either a computer processor 28 disposed within a housing 30 (which may also house the sensor module), or a different computer processor communicating with the sensor module.

[0065] For some applications, sensor module 22 includes one or more illumination components 25. Depending on the application, such illumination components include illumination components (e.g., LEDs and / or lasers) configured to irradiate bodily excrement with a given spectral band and / or broadband light sources. For some applications, broadband light sources are used in combination with one or more bandpass filters (which can be used to filter emitted and / or detected light).

[0066] For some applications, as a replacement or complement to lighting components, sensor modules include ultrasonic transducers configured to direct ultrasonic waves into the toilet bowl, and / or transducers configured to direct electromagnetic waves (e.g., radio waves or microwaves) into the toilet bowl (e.g., ultra-wide beam radar transducers).

[0067] For some applications, device 20 includes a power source (e.g., a battery, microbattery, capacitor, chemical energy storage device, etc.) disposed outside the toilet bowl and inside housing 30. Optionally or additionally, the sensor module is connected to mains power (not shown). For some applications, the power source and sensor module 22 are connected wired or wirelessly. Depending on the application, the computer processor performing the analysis described herein is disposed inside the toilet bowl (e.g., a computer processor 28 disposed inside housing 30 (which may also house the sensor module)) or remotely. For example, as shown, the sensor module may communicate wirelessly with user interface device 32, which includes the computer processor, using short-range wireless technology standards such as Bluetooth®, Zigbee®, and / or other near-field communication protocols. Such user interface devices may include, but are not limited to, telephone 34, tablet computer 36, laptop computer 38, or various types of personal computing devices. For some applications, the user interface device acts as both an input and output device, through which the user interacts with the sensor module 22. The sensor module may transmit data to the user interface device, and the user interface device's computer processor may run a program configured to analyze the received data.

[0068] For some applications, sensor module 22 and / or user interface device 32 communicate with a remote server, thereby communicating with a third-party device. For example, the device can communicate with a doctor or insurance company via a communication network without subject intervention. The doctor or insurance company can evaluate the results on the third-party device and determine whether further testing or intervention is suitable for the subject. For some applications, data related to the received sensor signals is stored in memory. For example, the memory can be located inside the toilet bowl (e.g., inside the sensor unit), inside the housing 30, or remotely. Periodically, the subject can submit the stored data to an institution, facility such as a healthcare institution (e.g., a doctor's office or pharmacy) or insurance company, and the institution's computer processor can then perform the analysis described above on the batch of data acquired over a period of time.

[0069] For some applications, sensor module 22 is located inside the toilet bowl. For some applications, the surface of the sensor module where the imaging components are mounted is covered by a transparent waterproof cover. It should be noted that... Figure 1 A sensor module is shown positioned above the water level in the toilet bowl. However, for some applications, at least a portion (e.g., the entire sensor module) of the sensor module is submerged in the water in the toilet bowl.

[0070] For some applications, the sensor module includes a subject sensor. The subject sensor is configured to detect when a subject is on or near the toilet, and / or whether the subject has deposited bodily waste and / or substrate 26 into the toilet bowl. For example, the subject sensor may include a motion sensor configured to sense movement of feces, urine, the subject, or water in the toilet bowl. Optionally or additionally, the subject sensor may include a light sensor configured to detect when a bathroom light is turned on, or when the subject is sitting on the toilet. For some applications, a light sensor for detecting light from bodily waste is also used for the aforementioned functions. For some such applications, the sensor module is configured to be in standby mode most of the time (allowing the sensor module to use reduced power). The sensor module is activated in response to detecting that a subject is on or near the toilet and / or that the subject has defecated and / or urinated into the toilet bowl. For some applications, the imaging and / or sensing components of the sensor module acquire data in response to detecting that a subject is on or near the toilet, and / or that the subject has defecated and / or urinated into the toilet bowl. For some applications, the subjects manually turn on the sensor module.

[0071] As described above, for some applications, sensor 24 is used with a substrate 26 comprising one or more molecules 27 disposed thereon. For example, molecules include biosynthetic molecules, chemical molecules, antibodies, etc. For some applications, the substrate is flushable in a toilet bowl. For example, the substrate may include toilet paper, wipes (such as facial wipes), tampons, flushable pads, hygiene products, and / or different types of substrates. In some embodiments, molecules 27 are bound to the substrate, for example, by freeze-drying.

[0072] For some applications, the substrate is configured to bring bodily excretions within the molecular reaction range through interaction between the subject and the substrate, such as by the subject wiping themselves (or being wiped) with the substrate. For example, when toilet paper is used as a substrate, the subject's feces and / or urine enter the molecular reaction range by the subject wiping themselves with toilet paper. Alternatively, when facial wipes or tissues are used as a substrate, saliva, nasal mucus, phlegm, sweat, tears, and / or other excretions from the subject enter the molecular reaction range by the subject wiping themselves with the substrate. Also alternatively, when toilet paper, tampons, or rinseable pads are used as a substrate, the subject's vaginal fluid enters the molecular reaction range by placing the substrate in contact with or near the subject's vagina. For some applications, the substrate is placed separately from the bodily excretions in the toilet bowl. For example, the subject may place the substrate in the toilet bowl before, during, and / or after urinating and / or defecating, allowing the bodily excretions to enter the molecular reaction range of the substrate within the toilet bowl.

[0073] As described above, for some applications, intramolecular epitopes and physical properties (other than color) are configured to change as the biomarker's response distance changes upon entering an aqueous environment. For example, physical properties may include changes in impedance, attenuation of sound waves by the molecule, and / or changes in the molecule's microwave activity. For some applications, sensor 24 includes a sensor configured to detect such changes in the molecule's physical properties.

[0074] Now for reference Figures 2A-2D This is a schematic diagram of a trap 60 for trapping substrate 26 within toilet bowl 23 according to some applications of this disclosure. For such applications, assuming the user flushes the toilet before the color reporter molecules undergo a color change, the color change occurs without bodily waste itself. Therefore, the color change is more easily detected by sensor 24. Thus, in some embodiments, the trap is configured to trap the substrate within the toilet bowl for a period of time after the other contents of the toilet bowl have been flushed. In some embodiments, the trap is configured to release the substrate after a given period of time, even if the user takes no further action. For some applications, the trap is configured to release the substrate, and the toilet is configured to automatically flush the substrate after a given period of time, even if the user takes no further action.

[0075] Figure 2A The image shows a trap 60 and a sensor module 22 arranged inside a toilet bowl 23 without a base. Figure 2B The image shows the substrate deposited in the toilet bowl. Figure 2C The image shows a toilet being flushed to remove bodily waste (e.g., urine) from the toilet bowl. Figure 2D A trap is shown that retains the substrate in the toilet bowl even after bodily discharge has been flushed away, allowing the sensor module to detect changes in the substrate even in the absence of bodily discharge, as described above.

[0076] As described above, for some applications, the aquatic environment of the water in the toilet bowl causes biomarkers to react with color reporter molecules, resulting in a color change from a first color to a second color. Therefore, although bodily excrement enters the reaction distance of the molecules by wiping itself with the substrate, the color change only occurs when the substrate is in the toilet bowl. For some applications, the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting the color change of the color reporter molecules, rather than simply detecting the presence of the second color of the color reporter molecules. For some embodiments, by detecting the color change rather than the presence of the second color, the computer processor can detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker in the bodily excrement more accurately (e.g., with higher specificity and / or sensitivity). Alternatively, the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting the presence of the second color of the color reporter molecules, even if no color change has been detected on the substrate.

[0077] As described above, for some applications, molecule 27 includes a reporter-conjugated epitope 29 configured to target a specific biomarker that may be present in the subject's bodily excretions (e.g., urine or feces). In some embodiments, a computer processor detects the presence of a biomarker in the bodily excretion in response to the detection that the substrate has undergone a color change. For some applications, the computer processor detects the concentration of the biomarker, for example, based on the intensity of the light signal at a second color of the color reporter molecule 31, or based on the time taken for the substrate to undergo a color change. For some applications, in response to the detection of the presence of a biomarker and / or a given concentration, the computer processor generates an output indicative of the subject's condition based on the detected presence and / or concentration of the biomarker. Some examples of such biomarkers and corresponding conditions are now provided.

[0078] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target iodine, and the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of iodine in a subject's bodily excretions (e.g., urine) by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecule within the substrate. For some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate output indicating whether the subject's iodine intake is insufficient, adequate, and / or excessive. For example, in response to detecting an iodine concentration in the subject's urine below a threshold (e.g., a threshold of 150 μg / L or lower), the computer processor generates output indicating insufficient iodine intake; in response to detecting an iodine concentration in the subject's urine within a given range (e.g., a range of 150–499 μg / L or a subrange thereof), the computer processor generates output indicating adequate iodine intake; and / or in response to detecting an iodine concentration in the subject's urine above a threshold (e.g., a threshold of 500 μg / L or higher), the computer processor generates output indicating excessive iodine intake.

[0079] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of hCG in the subject's bodily excretions (e.g., urine) by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecule within the substrate. For some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output indicating the likelihood of pregnancy in the female subject based on the detected hCG concentration. For example, in response to detecting that the concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in a subject's urine is below a threshold (e.g., 70 picoseconds / L or lower), the computer processor generates output indicating that the subject may not be pregnant; in response to detecting that the concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in a subject's urine is within a given range (e.g., 70-174 picoseconds / L or a subrange thereof), the computer processor generates output indicating that the subject's pregnancy status is unclear; and / or in response to detecting that the concentration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in a subject's urine is above a threshold (e.g., 174 picoseconds / L or higher), the computer processor generates output indicating that the subject may be pregnant.

[0080] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitopes are configured to target 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and / or estradiol (E2), and the computer processor is configured to detect the concentrations of 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and / or estradiol (E2) in the subject's bodily excrement by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecules within the substrate. For some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the presence and / or concentration of one or more of the aforementioned entities in the female subject's urine (e.g., the first morning urine). For some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the average concentration of one or more of the aforementioned entities in the subject's urine over a given time period (e.g., a period between one week and two months). For some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output indicating whether the female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal based on the concentration or average concentration of one or more of the aforementioned entities in the subject's urine. For example, in response to the detection that the concentrations of 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (aMT6s), estrone (E1), and / or estradiol (E2) in the subject's urine are below a threshold or the concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is above a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is postmenopausal; and in response to the detection that the concentrations of 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (aMT6s), estrone (E1), and / or estradiol (E2) in the subject's urine are above a threshold or the concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is below a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is premenopausal.

[0081] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitopes are configured to target pregnanediol glucoside (PdG) and / or luteinizing hormone (LH), and the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of pregnanediol glucoside (PdG) and / or luteinizing hormone (LH) in the subject's bodily excrement by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecules within the substrate. For some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the concentration of one or more of the aforementioned entities in the urine of a female subject (e.g., the first morning urine). For some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output indicating the current stage of the female subject's menstrual cycle based on the concentration of one or more of the aforementioned entities in the subject's urine. For example, in response to detecting a concentration of pregnanediol glucoside (PdG) in the subject's urine above a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is in the luteal phase of her menstrual cycle; and in response to detecting a concentration of pregnanediol glucoside (PdG) in the subject's urine below a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is in the follicular phase of her menstrual cycle. Optionally or additionally, in response to detecting that the concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the subject's urine is below a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is in the luteal phase of his / her menstrual cycle; and in response to detecting that the concentration of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the subject's urine is above a threshold, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject is in the follicular phase of his / her menstrual cycle.

[0082] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA), and the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of urinary PSA in the subject's urine by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecule within the substrate. For some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the concentration of urinary PSA in the urine (e.g., first morning urine) of a male subject. For some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output indicating that the subject may have prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) based on the concentration of PSA in the subject's urine. For some applications, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject's serum PSA output should be measured so that the subject can be diagnosed based on the ratio between their urinary PSA and their serum PSA.

[0083] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitopes are configured to target one or more urinary polyamines (such as spermine), and the computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of one or more urinary polyamines (such as spermine) in the subject's urine by detecting color changes in color reporter molecules within a substrate. For some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the presence and / or concentration of one or more urinary polyamines (such as spermine) in the urine of a male subject. For some applications, the computer processor is configured to determine the average concentration of one or more of the aforementioned entities in the subject's urine over a given time period (e.g., a time period between 12 hours and 72 hours). For some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate an output indicating that the subject may have prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) based on the concentration and / or average concentration of one or more urinary polyamines (such as spermine) in the subject's urine.

[0084] In some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitopes are configured to target one or more biomarkers indicating cancer (e.g., bladder cancer), and the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecule within the substrate. In some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate output indicating that the subject may have cancer based on the concentration and / or average concentration of the biomarker in the subject's bodily excretions (such as urine).

[0085] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target one or more biomarkers indicating sexually transmitted diseases and / or any microbial, parasitic, and / or viral infections of the gastrointestinal and / or urinary tract, and the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecule within the substrate. For example, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target Neisseria gonorrhoeae (Neisseria gonorrhoeae). Neisseria gonorrhoeae Optionally or additionally, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target globus pallidus for the detection of syphilis. Also optionally or additionally, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target 3-hydroxy-2,4,4-trimethylpentyl-2-methylpropionate for the detection of Trichomonas vaginalis. Trichomonas vaginalis For some such applications, the computer processor is configured to generate output indicating that the subject may have a sexually transmitted disease, gastrointestinal infection, and / or urinary tract infection, based on the concentration and / or average concentration of biomarkers in the subject's bodily excretions (such as urine or feces).

[0086] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target one or more biomarkers in urine, such as proteins (e.g., albumin) and / or creatinine. For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target one or more inflammatory biomarkers in feces (e.g., calcium defense protein) and / or urine (e.g., nitrite).

[0087] For some applications, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target a given type of pathogen in feces and / or urine to identify the source of infection. For example, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target one or more of pyuria, leukocyte esterase (LE), and / or nitrite in urine to detect urinary tract infections. Optionally or additionally, the reporter-conjugated epitope is configured to target calcium defense proteins and / or lactoferrin in feces to detect gastrointestinal infections.

[0088] For some applications, the epitope conjugated to the reporter is configured to target B-type natriuretic peptide (BTP) in urine. For some such applications, in response to the detection of BTP in urine and / or in response to the detection of a concentration of BTP in urine exceeding a threshold, a computer processor determines (and optionally generates an output indicating the following) the likelihood that the subject has congestive heart failure. For some applications, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject should be tested for congestive heart failure.

[0089] For some applications, the epitope of the reporter conjugate is configured to target troponin in urine. For some such applications, in response to the detection of troponin in urine and / or in response to the detection of a troponin concentration exceeding a threshold, the computer processor determines (and optionally generates an output indicating the following) the likelihood that the subject has myocardial ischemia. For some applications, the computer processor generates an output indicating that the subject should be tested for myocardial ischemia.

[0090] For some applications, the epitopes of the reporter conjugate are configured to target amniotic fluid. For some such applications, in response to the detection of amniotic fluid on toilet paper, face wipes, tampons, rinseable pads, sanitary products, and / or tissues, the computer processor determines (and optionally generates output indicating the following) the likelihood that the subject has premature rupture of membranes (PROM) or preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). For some applications, the computer processor generates output indicating that the subject should undergo a test for PROM or preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).

[0091] For some applications, the reporter epitope is configured to target one or more biomarkers from a subject's saliva, nasal mucus, phlegm, sweat, tears, vaginal discharge, and / or other discharges from the subject. For some applications, the substrate includes toilet paper, facial wipes, tampons, rinseable pads, hygiene products, and / or tissues, and the reaction distance of one or more of the aforementioned discharges to enter molecules is increased through the subject's interaction with the substrate, for example, by wiping themselves with the substrate.

[0092] Now for reference Figure 3 This is a flowchart illustrating the steps of a method performed according to some applications of this disclosure. In some applications, in a first step 40, the subject rubs a portion of their body with substrate 26, causing bodily waste to deposit onto the substrate. In some embodiments, in step 42, this causes epitopes conjugated to the reporter on the substrate to target a given biomarker within the bodily waste. In some applications, the substrate is then placed in a toilet bowl in step 44. In some embodiments, in step 46, placing the substrate in the aqueous environment of the water in the toilet bowl causes the biomarker to react with the color reporter molecule, causing the color reporter molecule to undergo a color change. Subsequently (in step 48), a sensor detects the color change, and (in step 50) a computer processor analyzes the detected color change and (in step 52) generates an output in response.

[0093] As described above, for some applications, intramolecular epitopes and physical properties other than color are configured to undergo changes in the response distance of a biomarker as it enters an aqueous environment. For example, physical properties may include changes in impedance, attenuation of sound waves by the molecule, and / or changes in the microwave activity of the molecule. For some applications, sensor 24 includes a sensor configured to detect such changes in the physical properties of the molecule.

[0094] As described above, for some applications, bodily excretions are deposited separately from the substrate into the toilet bowl. For example, a subject may place the substrate in the toilet bowl before, during, and / or after urinating and / or defecating, allowing the bodily excretions to reach the reactive distance of molecules on the substrate within the toilet bowl. For this application, the subject does wipe themselves with the substrate, but the epitopes conjugated to the reporter on the substrate are configured to target biomarkers within the bodily excretions only in the aqueous environment of the water within the toilet bowl (i.e., step 42). For some applications, molecules are deposited into the toilet bowl via different methods, as an alternative to or supplement to the molecules arranged on the substrate. For example, a cartridge containing the molecules may be arranged within the toilet bowl (e.g., within the bowl itself or within the toilet tank), and the cartridge is configured to inject the molecules into the toilet bowl.

[0095] Applications of the disclosure described herein may take the form of a computer program product accessible from a computer-usable or computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) that provides program code for use or in connection with a computer or any instruction execution system, such as a computer processor of user interface device 32, a computer processor 28 disposed within housing 30, or a remote cloud-based computer processor. For the purposes of this description, a computer-usable or computer-readable medium may be any means that may include, store, transmit, propagate, or deliver a program for use or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The medium may be an electronic medium, a magnetic medium, an optical medium, an electromagnetic medium, an infrared medium, or a semiconductor system (or apparatus or device) or a propagation medium. For some applications, the computer-usable or computer-readable medium is a non-transitory computer-usable or computer-readable medium.

[0096] Examples of computer-readable media include semiconductor or solid-state memory, magnetic tape, removable computer floppy disks, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), rigid disks, and optical discs. Current examples of optical discs include read-only storage optical discs (CD-ROM), read-write optical discs (CD-R / W), and DVDs. For some applications, cloud storage is used.

[0097] A data processing system suitable for storing and / or executing program code will include at least one processor (e.g., a computer processor of user interface device 32, a computer processor 28 disposed within housing 30, or a remote cloud-based computer processor) directly or indirectly coupled to a memory element (e.g., the memory of user interface device 32) via a system bus. The memory element may include local memory used during actual execution of the program code, mass storage, and a cache memory that provides temporary storage for at least some of the program code to reduce the number of times code must be retrieved from mass storage during execution. The system may read the instructions of the present invention stored on a program storage device and follow those instructions to perform methods of embodiments of this disclosure.

[0098] A network adapter can be coupled to a processor, enabling the processor to couple to other processors or remote printers or storage devices via an intermediate private or public network. Modems, cable modems, and Ethernet cards are just a few of the types of network adapters currently available.

[0099] Computer program code used to perform the operations of this disclosure may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including subject-oriented programming languages ​​(such as Java, Smalltalk, C++, etc.) and traditional procedural programming languages ​​(such as C programming language or similar programming languages)

[0100] It will be understood that the algorithms described herein can be implemented by computer program instructions. These computer program instructions can be provided to a processor of a general-purpose computer, a processor of a special-purpose computer, or a processor of other programmable data processing apparatus used for manufacturing machines, such that instructions executed via a processor of a computer (e.g., the computer processor of user interface device 32, computer processor 28 disposed within housing 30, or a remote cloud-based computer processor) or the processor of other programmable data processing apparatus produce means for implementing the functions / actions specified in the algorithms described herein. These computer program instructions can also be stored in a computer-readable medium (e.g., a non-transitory computer-readable medium) that can instruct a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner, such that the instructions stored in the computer-readable medium produce an article of writing including means of instruction for implementing the functions / actions specified in the algorithm. The computer program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented process, such that instructions executing on the computer or other programmable apparatus provide a process for implementing the functions / actions specified in the algorithms described herein.

[0101] For some applications, the computer processor described herein is a hardware device programmed with computer program instructions to produce a dedicated computer. For example, when programmed to execute the algorithms described herein, the computer processor acts as a dedicated computer processor for analyzing bodily waste. For some applications, the operations performed by the computer processor described herein convert the physical state of a memory (which is a real physical object) into different magnetic polarities, charges, etc., depending on the memory technology used.

[0102] Those skilled in the art will understand that this disclosure is not limited to the content specifically shown and described above. Rather, the scope of protection of this disclosure includes combinations and sub-combinations of the various features described above, as well as variations and modifications of these features that would occur to those skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description and that are not found in the prior art.

Claims

1. A device for use with bodily excrement of a subject and a toilet bowl containing water, the device comprising: Base; More than one type of molecule disposed on the substrate, each molecule comprising an epitope configured to target a biomarker and a color reporter molecule conjugated to the epitope. The color reporter molecule is configured to undergo a color change from a first color to a second color in response to the reaction distance of the biomarker in the water in the toilet bowl.

2. The device of claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises toilet paper configured to receive the subject's feces and / or urine within the reaction distance of the molecules in response to the subject wiping himself with the toilet paper.

3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the substrate is configured to receive the subject's saliva within the reaction distance of the molecules in response to the subject wiping himself with the substrate.

4. The device of claim 1, wherein the substrate comprises a substrate selected from the group consisting of toilet paper, tampons, sanitary products, and washable pads, and wherein the substrate is configured to receive vaginal fluid of the subject within the reaction distance of the molecules in response to interaction between the subject and the substrate.

5. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target iodine.

6. The device of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

7. The device of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target a biomarker indicating whether a female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal, the biomarker being selected from the group consisting of: 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2).

8. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target a biomarker indicating the menstrual cycle of a female subject, the biomarker being selected from the group consisting of pregnanediol glucoside (PdG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

9. The device of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA).

10. The device of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood of a male subject having prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

11. The device of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood that the subject has cancer.

12. The device of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood that the subject has a sexually transmitted disease.

13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The epitope is configured to target a given pathogen within the body's excrement.

14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, The epitope is configured to target one or more inflammatory biomarkers within the body's excretions.

15. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target B-type natriuretic peptide in the urine of the subject.

16. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target troponin in the urine of the subject.

17. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the epitope is configured to target amniotic fluid.

18. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-12, further comprising a trap configured to trap the substrate within the toilet bowl when the toilet bowl is flushed.

19. The apparatus of claim 18, wherein the trap is configured to release the substrate after a given period of time even if the subject does not take any further action.

20. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-12, further comprising one or more sensors and at least one computer processor, the one or more sensors being configured to be disposed in the toilet bowl and to receive light from the toilet bowl, the at least one computer processor being configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker in the bodily excrement based on the light detected by the one or more sensors.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecules.

22. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the computer processor is configured to detect the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting the presence of the second color of the color reporter molecule.

23. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of the biomarker based on the intensity of a light signal received by the one or more sensors at the second color of the color reporter molecule.

24. The apparatus according to claim 20, wherein, The computer processor is configured to detect the concentration of the biomarker based on the time it takes for the substrate to undergo a color change.

25. A method comprising: The subject’s bodily excretions are placed within the reaction distance of a substrate on which more than one type of molecule is arranged, each of which contains an epitope configured to target a biomarker and a color reporter molecule conjugated to the epitope. By placing the substrate in water in a toilet bowl, the biomarker, if present in bodily excrement, reacts with color reporter molecules, causing the color reporter molecules to undergo a color change from a first color to a second color; and A drive sensor is used to detect light inside the toilet bowl.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the substrate comprises toilet paper, and wherein placing the subject's bodily excretions within the reaction distance of the substrate comprises the reaction distance by which the subject's feces and / or urine enter the molecules through the interaction of the subject with the toilet paper.

27. The method according to claim 25, wherein, Placing the subject's bodily excretions within the reaction distance of the substrate includes the reaction distance through which the subject's saliva enters the molecules via interaction between the subject and the substrate.

28. The method of claim 25, wherein the substrate comprises a substrate selected from the group consisting of toilet paper, tampons, sanitary products, and rinseable pads, and wherein placing the subject's bodily discharge within a reaction distance of the substrate comprises a reaction distance through which the subject's vaginal fluid enters the molecules via interaction between the subject and the substrate.

29. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target iodine.

30. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).

31. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target a biomarker indicating whether a female subject is premenopausal or postmenopausal, the biomarker being selected from the group consisting of: 6-hydroxymelatonin sulfate (aMT6s), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2).

32. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target a biomarker indicating the menstrual cycle of a female subject, the biomarker being selected from the group consisting of pregnanediol glucoside (PdG) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

33. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target urinary prostate-specific antigen (PSA).

34. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood of a male subject having prostate cancer and / or benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

35. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood that the subject has cancer.

36. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target one or more urinary polyamines that indicate the likelihood that the subject has a sexually transmitted disease.

37. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target a given pathogen.

38. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target one or more inflammatory markers.

39. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target troponin in the urine of the subject.

40. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target amniotic fluid.

41. The method of claim 25, wherein the epitope is configured to target B-type natriuretic peptide in the urine of the subject.

42. The method according to any one of claims 25-36, further comprising: Using at least one computer processor, the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker in the body excrement is detected based on light detected by the one or more sensors.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein detecting the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker in the body excrement based on light received by the one or more sensors comprises detecting the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker by detecting color changes in the color reporter molecule.

44. The method of claim 42, wherein detecting the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker in the body excrement based on light received by the one or more sensors includes detecting the presence of the second color of the color reporter molecule.

45. The method of claim 42, wherein detecting the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker in the body excrement based on light received by the one or more sensors comprises detecting the concentration of the biomarker based on the intensity of the light signal received by the one or more sensors at the second color of the color reporter molecule.

46. ​​The method of claim 42, wherein detecting the presence and / or concentration of the biomarker in the body excrement based on light received by the one or more sensors comprises: The concentration of the biomarker is detected based on the time it takes for the substrate to undergo a color change.

47. An apparatus for use with bodily excrement of a subject and a toilet bowl containing water, the apparatus comprising: Base; More than one type of molecule disposed on the substrate, each of the molecule comprising an epitope configured to target a biomarker and a molecule conjugated to the epitope. The detectable physical properties of the molecule are configured to change in response to the biomarker reaction distance in the water entering the toilet bowl.

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