Biomolecule transcription system and method

Abstract

The protein transfer system includes at least one base configured to receive one or more consumable protein transfer stacks and at least one lid configured to cover the base. The lid(s) include one or more electrodes for supplying current to the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks. The protein transfer system further includes at least one voltage source configured to supply current to the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, one or more processors, and one or more hardware storage devices storing instructions executable by the one or more processors to configure the protein transfer system to control the operation of the one or more voltage sources.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] In the field of molecular biology, various techniques are used to facilitate the analysis of macromolecules (e.g., deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ribonucleic acid (RNA), proteins, etc.). One analytical technique for analyzing biomolecules, such as proteins as a non-limiting example, includes (1) separating proteins by size, (2) transferring the proteins to a solid support, and (3) marking the target proteins using primary and / or secondary antibodies for visualization. This analytical technique is called Western blotting or protein immunoblotting.

[0002] Transfer of proteins to a solid support (step (2) of Western blotting above) can be accomplished by a method called electroblotting. Electroblotting utilizes an electric current and a transfer buffer to move proteins (or nucleic acids) onto a membrane. After electrophoresis is performed to separate the proteins (or nucleic acids) by size, a transfer stack may be placed. The transfer stack may include (in order from cathode to anode) a sponge, one or more filters (e.g., filter paper soaked in transfer buffer), an electrophoresis gel, a solid support membrane (e.g., polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), nitrocellulose or nylon membrane), additional filter(s) (e.g., additional filter paper soaked in transfer buffer), and additional sponges. Once prepared, an electric current may be applied to the transfer stack for a suitable time to transfer the proteins from the electrophoresis gel to the solid support membrane. Because proteins migrate in the direction of the electric current, the solid support membrane must be placed between the electrophoresis gel and the anode.

[0003] Electroblotting may be performed under wet conditions (e.g., with the transfer stack positioned in a tank of transfer buffer) or under dry / semi-dry conditions (e.g., with the transfer stack not positioned in a tank of transfer buffer). Wet transfer techniques are typically time consuming, generate hazardous waste, and therefore require non-trivial set-up and clean-up procedures. Dry / semi-dry transfer techniques typically generate less hazardous waste than wet transfer techniques.

[0004] Conventional biomolecule and protein transfer systems suffer from several shortcomings and there is a continuing need and desire for improved biomolecule and protein transfer systems.

[0005] The subject matter claimed herein is not limited to embodiments that solve any shortcomings or that operate only in environments such as those described above. Rather, this background is only provided to illustrate one example technology area where some embodiments described herein may be practiced. Summary of the Invention

[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure extend to at least a biomolecule transcription system, components thereof, and / or methods related thereto.

[0007] Some embodiments provide a biomolecule transcription system that includes at least one base configured to receive one or more consumable biomolecule transcription stacks.

[0008] Some embodiments provide a protein transfer system including at least one base configured to receive one or more consumable protein transfer stacks. The protein transfer system further includes at least one lid configured to cover the base. The at least one lid includes one or more electrodes for providing current to the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks. The protein transfer system further includes at least one voltage source configured to provide current to the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, one or more processors, and one or more hardware storage devices storing instructions executable by the one or more processors to configure the protein transfer system to control operation of the one or more voltage sources.

[0009] In some embodiments, the protein transfer system further includes at least one lid configured to cover the one or more bases. The at least one lid includes one or more electrodes for providing current to the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks. The protein transfer system further includes at least one voltage source configured to provide current to the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, one or more processors, and one or more hardware storage devices storing instructions executable by the one or more processors to configure the protein transfer system to control the operation of the one or more voltage sources.

[0010] In some embodiments, the protein transfer system includes multiple base units, each with a corresponding lid and independently controllable, such that different protein transfer runs with different protein transfer parameters can be performed simultaneously using the same protein transfer system. In some embodiments, the protein transfer system includes two bases.

[0011] In some embodiments, each base of the protein transcription system of the present disclosure is configured to accommodate one or more protein transcription stacks and configured to perform multiple protein transcription runs per base. In some exemplary embodiments, each base of the protein transcription system of the present disclosure can accommodate, for example, one standard consumable protein transcription stack or two miniature consumable protein transcription stacks. Other combinations of two or more protein transcription stacks can be accommodated and run simultaneously within one base of the protein transcription system of the present disclosure.

[0012] In some embodiments, a protein transfer system of the present disclosure includes a cooling system including at least one heat sink in thermal communication with a corresponding cathode plate of a corresponding lid, at least one air inlet, at least one air outlet, and at least one fan configured to draw air through the at least one air inlet and direct the air along an air cooling path extending through the at least one heat sink and toward the at least one air outlet.

[0013] In some embodiments, the protein transfer system of the present disclosure includes one or more compression mechanism parts configured to cover and secure at least a portion of the outer periphery of the consumable protein transfer stack when the lid is closed over the consumable protein transfer stack. The cathode plate of the protein transfer system can be configured to translate relative to the compression mechanism part(s) to allow the cathode plate to disengage from the consumable protein transfer stack while the compression mechanism part(s) hold the consumable protein transfer stack.

[0014] In some embodiments, the protein transcription system of the present disclosure is configured to perform a consumable protein transcription stack detection operation to prevent damage to the protein transcription stack when an improper connection exists between the protein transcription stack and the protein transcription system.

[0015] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0016] Additional features and advantages will be set forth in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by the practice of the teachings herein. The features and advantages of the invention may be realized and obtained by means of the instruments and combinations particularly pointed out in the appended claims. The features of the invention will become more fully apparent from the following description and the appended claims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forth hereinafter.

[0017] To explain how the above-mentioned and other advantages and features can be obtained, a more particular description of the subject matter briefly described above will be rendered by reference to specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, with the understanding that these drawings depict only typical embodiments and therefore should not be considered limiting in scope, the embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the use of the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 illustrates a front perspective view of an exemplary embodiment of a protein transfer system, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 1A-1D are front perspective views of a protein transfer system housing consumable transfer stacks of different configurations. [Figure 3A] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional front view of a protein transfer system illustrating an exemplary function of a cathode plate of the protein transfer system. [Figure 3B] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional front view of a protein transfer system illustrating an exemplary function of a cathode plate of the protein transfer system. [Figure 3C]FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional front view of a protein transfer system illustrating an exemplary function of a cathode plate of the protein transfer system. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a protein transfer system showing exemplary components of a cooling system. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional side view of a protein transfer system showing exemplary components of the cooling system. [Figure 6A] 13 is an exemplary graph depicting heat sink temperature during a protein transfer run under various cooling system settings. [Figure 6B] 13 is an exemplary graph depicting heat sink temperature during a protein transfer run under various cooling system settings. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is an exemplary flow diagram illustrating operations associated with a transcription stack detection operation of a protein transcription system. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is an exemplary schematic diagram of a speaker system associated with a protein transfer system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0019] Example Benefits Summary The embodiments of the present disclosure extend to at least a protein transfer system (e.g., a dry / semi-dry protein transfer system for facilitating Western blotting) and / or components thereof. The disclosed embodiments may be implemented to address various shortcomings associated with at least some conventional protein transfer systems and / or techniques. The following description outlines some exemplary improvements and / or practical applications that may be provided by the disclosed embodiments. However, it will be understood that the following are merely examples, and that the embodiments described herein are in no way limited to the exemplary improvements discussed herein.

[0020] Although generally faster than wet transfer techniques, dry / semi-dry transfer techniques also require significant set-up and clean-up procedures that limit the throughput of conventional dry / semi-dry protein transfer systems.

[0021] At least some protein transfer systems of the present disclosure include multiple bases that can independently accept protein transfer stacks, allowing independent protein transfer processes to be performed in parallel in the same protein transfer system (e.g., two or more bases). Different protein transfer processes can advantageously be independently controlled to have different protein transfer specifications and / or configurations (e.g., different current settings, different start and / or end times, etc.). In some embodiments, a base of a protein transfer system according to the present disclosure can simultaneously accept up to two separate protein transfer stacks (e.g., allowing the protein transfer system to process up to four protein transfer stacks simultaneously). Such a feature can increase the throughput of a dry / semi-dry protein transfer system, especially when compared to existing protein transfer systems.

[0022] Another problem faced by conventional protein transfer systems is that the transfer stack often sticks to the cathode of the conventional protein transfer system during the protein transfer process, making it difficult for users to remove the transfer stack and solid support membrane for further analysis.

[0023] At least some protein transfer systems of the present disclosure include one or more compression mechanisms, components, or members surrounding the cathode plate(s). The compression mechanism(s) may exert a force on the protein transfer stack(s) positioned within the base(s) of the protein transfer system. The cathode plate(s) may be configured to advance and retract relative to the compression mechanism(s), allowing the cathode plate(s) to advance into engagement with the protein transfer stack(s) and retract from engagement with the protein transfer stack(s) while the compression mechanism(s) apply a force to secure the protein transfer stack(s). While retracting from engagement with the protein transfer stack(s), the compression mechanism(s) may maintain a force on the transfer stack(s) to separate the transfer stack(s) from the cathode plate(s) in a controlled manner. Thus, embodiments of the present disclosure may enable a user to obtain processed protein transfer stacks in a reliable and efficient manner.

[0024] As yet another example, conventional protein transfer systems typically do not include mechanisms for controlling the ambient conditions of the protein transfer, such as temperature. As a result, utilizing conventional systems, different protein transfer runs may experience different temperature profiles throughout the run (even when the target protein(s), applied current(s), and run time(s) are the same).

[0025] At least some protein transfer systems of the present disclosure include a cooling system configured to facilitate temperature control of the transfer stack during the transfer process. The cooling system may include a heat sink in thermal communication with the cathode plate and may further include one or more fans arranged to direct air along an air-cooling path extending through the heat sink. Multiple cooling systems may be implemented, such as when the protein transfer system includes multiple bases. The cooling system may be configured to air-cool the transfer stack during and / or immediately after the protein transfer process. Such functionality may enable the protein transfer system to replicate ambient conditions for different protein transfer runs (thereby improving reproducibility and / or consistency), for example, by imposing a common starting temperature for multiple protein transfer runs and / or by following a predetermined target temperature curve for the transfer stack during the protein transfer runs.

[0026] Conventional protein transfer systems lack a mechanism to prevent damage to the transcription stack that may result from an improper electrical connection between the transcription stack and a voltage source. For example, a short circuit in the connection between the protein transfer system and the transcription stack may cause the applied current to burn out the transcription stack. Burnout may result in the need to perform a duplicate gel electrophoresis to generate new samples.

[0027] At least some protein transfer systems of the present disclosure are configured to perform a preliminary transcription stack (or consumable) detection operation before applying the full protein transfer voltage. The transcription stack detection operation may include closing a transcription stack detection current path and applying a transcription stack detection voltage through that path. The transcription stack detection voltage may be less than the full protein transfer voltage, thereby avoiding damage to the transcription stack if the transcription stack is improperly connected to the protein transfer system (e.g., when a short circuit is present). The resistance resulting from applying the transcription stack detection voltage through the transcription stack detection current path may be measured to determine whether a proper connection exists between the protein transfer system and the transcription stack. If the connection between the transcription stack and the protein transfer system is determined to be correct based on this measured resistance, a different current path may be closed to facilitate protein transfer execution, and the full protein transfer voltage may be applied (e.g., with confidence that burnout to the transcription stack will be avoided).

[0028] Attention is now directed to Figures 1-7, which provide various supporting illustrations related to the disclosed embodiments.

[0029] Examples of Protein Transcription System Components FIG. 1 illustrates various exemplary components of a protein transfer system 100 that may be used to implement one or more disclosed embodiments. For example, the protein transfer system 100 of FIG. 1 may be configured to facilitate dry or semi-dry transfer of proteins for Western blotting or other processing. Although FIG. 1 illustrates the protein transfer system 100 as including certain components, it will be understood in light of the present disclosure that the protein transfer system 100 may include any number of additional and / or alternative components. Furthermore, it will be understood in light of the present disclosure that the principles disclosed herein are not limited to the particular configuration and / or characteristics of the protein transfer system 100 illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0030] Additionally, although various examples throughout this disclosure refer to protein transfer systems, it will be understood that the same principles, components, and features can be readily applied to nucleic acid transfer systems (e.g., systems configured to perform Southern or Northern blotting).

[0031] FIG. 1 shows that a protein transfer system 100 may include processor(s) 102, storage 104, input / output system(s) 110 (I / O system(s) 110), and communication system(s) 112. The processor(s) 102 may include one or more sets of electronic circuitry including any number of logic units, registers, and / or control units to facilitate execution of computer-readable instructions (e.g., instructions forming a computer program). Such computer-readable instructions may be stored in storage 104. Storage 104 may include physical system memory, which may be volatile, non-volatile, or some combination thereof. Additionally, storage 104 may include local storage, remote storage (e.g., accessible via communication system(s) 112, etc.), or some combination thereof. Additional details regarding the processor (e.g., processor(s) 102), computer storage media (e.g., storage 104), and other computer components are provided below.

[0032] The processor(s) 102 may be configured to execute instructions 106 stored in storage 104 to perform certain actions (e.g., voltage / current control, cooling system control, transfer stack detection, etc.) The actions may depend at least in part on data 108 stored in storage 104 in a volatile or non-volatile manner.

[0033] In some cases, the actions may depend at least in part on the communication system(s) 112 to receive data from the remote system(s) 114, which may include, for example, computing devices, sensors, and / or others. The communication system(s) 112 may include any combination of software or hardware components operable to facilitate communication between on-system components / devices and / or with off-system components / devices. For example, the communication system(s) 112 may include ports, buses, or other physical connection devices for communicating with other devices / components. Additionally or alternatively, the communication system(s) 112 may include systems / components operable to wirelessly communicate with external systems and / or devices through any suitable communication channel(s), such as, by way of non-limiting example, Bluetooth, ultra-wideband, WLAN, infrared communication, etc.

[0034] 1 further illustrates that the protein transfer system 100 may include or be in communication with an I / O system(s) 110. The I / O system(s) 110 may include any type of input or output device, such as, but not limited to, a display, a touch screen, a mouse, a keyboard or button interface, a controller, and / or others, as non-limiting examples. For example, FIG. 1 illustrates that the protein transfer system includes a user interface element 120 implemented in the form of a graphical touch screen user interface. The user interface element 120 is configured to display information related to the operation of the protein transfer system 100 and / or receive user input to facilitate control of the protein transfer system 100 (e.g., to select parameters for a protein transfer run, initiate, monitor, and / or terminate a protein transfer run).

[0035] The protein transfer system 100 includes various physical components that can be used to facilitate protein transfer operations. For example, Figure 1 shows that the protein transfer system includes a base 122 configured to receive one or more protein transfer stacks (see Figure 2). Figure 1 also shows that the protein transfer system 100 includes a lid 124 associated with the base 122 and configured to cover the base 122. The lid 124 includes various electrodes that can be used to supply electrical current to the one or more protein transfer stacks when such protein transfer stacks are positioned within the base 122 with the lid 124 closed over it.

[0036] In the example shown in Figure 1, the electrodes of the lid 124 are shown as a cathode plate 126 and an anode contact 128. The electrode(s) of the protein transfer system 100 may be implemented in configurations / formats other than those shown in Figure 1, including but not limited to, for example, the polarity of the plates and contacts may be reversed, or one or more of the anode(s) and / or cathode(s) may be located in another portion of the protein transfer system 100 rather than the lid 124.

[0037] 1 further illustrates that the protein transfer system 100 further includes a second base 130 including a corresponding second lid 132. The second base 130 and second lid 132 may include similar features and / or functionality as the base 122 and lid 124 (e.g., the second base 130 may be dimensioned to receive one or more protein transfer stacks, and the second lid 132 primarily includes one or more electrodes to facilitate application of electrical current through such protein transfer stacks).

[0038] The protein transfer system 100 may be advantageously configured to independently perform different protein transfer operations in association with different bases 122 and 130 (and their corresponding lids 124 and 132, respectively). For example, the instructions 106 may be executable by the processor(s) 102 to enable a user to provide user input at the user interface element 120 to facilitate a first protein transfer run utilizing the base 122 and lid 124 and to facilitate a second protein transfer run utilizing the second base 130 and second lid 124 (using one or more different consumable protein transfer stacks). The first and second protein transfer runs may include different voltages, currents, programming methods, start times, end times, cooling system controls, and / or other protein transfer parameters, any of which may be independently controlled via the user interface element 120. For example, one or more voltage sources of protein transfer system 100 may be configured to independently supply different currents through the protein transfer stack(s) positioned in base 122 and the protein transfer stack(s) positioned in base 130 (e.g., via the anode(s) and cathode(s) of corresponding lids 124 and 132, respectively).

[0039] Transcription parameters (e.g., voltage, current, run time, temperature, etc.) of various protein transcription runs performed utilizing protein transcription system 100 may be displayed (e.g., in real time and / or as a function of time) on user interface element 120. A log of such transcription parameters may be stored and / or exported for future access / analysis.

[0040] A consumable protein transfer stack usable with the protein transfer system 100 may include various components and / or layers. For example, a consumable protein transfer stack may include (from anode side to cathode side) one or more absorbent felts, an anode sheet (e.g., copper or other electroplating material), a buffer ion reservoir incorporated into the anode gel matrix, a nitrocellulose, polyvinylidene difluoride, or nylon transfer membrane, a plastic separator (removed / removable prior to transfer), a buffer ion reservoir incorporated into the cathode gel matrix (e.g., sandwiched between a copper cathode sheet and filter paper), and a top absorbent felt (e.g., with a folded-in aluminum tab). The consumable protein transfer stack may be positioned within a disposable tray, which may be positioned within the base of the protein transfer system to facilitate the protein transfer process. The disposable tray may include one or more felts to absorb excess liquid released during a protein transfer run (e.g., thereby facilitating easy cleanup).

[0041] 2 shows front perspective views of protein transfer systems 100A, 100B, and 100C housing consumable transfer stacks of different configurations. Protein transfer systems 100A, 100B, and 100C correspond to protein transfer system 100 described above. As shown in FIG. 2, the protein transfer systems described herein may be configured to receive and process consumable protein transfer stacks of different sizes and / or quantities. For example, different bases 122A and 130A of protein transfer system 100A each include a standard size or MIDI consumable protein transfer stack 202 positioned therein (each standard size consumable protein transfer stack 202 is positioned within a respective standard size consumable tray). As another example, a first base 122B of protein transfer system 100B includes a standard size or MIDI consumable protein transfer stack 202 positioned therein, and a second base 130B of protein transfer system 100B includes two mini or MINI consumable protein transfer stacks 204 (each mini consumable protein transfer stack 204 positioned within a respective mini consumable tray). As yet another example, different bases 122C and 130C of protein transfer system 100C each include two mini or MINI consumable protein transfer stacks 204 positioned therein.

[0042] 2, the MINI consumable protein transcription stack 204 has at least one smaller dimension as compared to the MIDI consumable protein transcription stack 202. By way of non-limiting example, the MINI consumable protein transcription stack 204 may include layer area dimensions in the range of about 5 cm×5 cm to about 11 cm×11 cm (e.g., layer area dimensions of about 8 cm×8 cm), while the MIDI consumable protein transcription stack 202 may include layer area dimensions in the range of about 5 cm×10 cm to about 11 cm×16 cm (e.g., layer area dimensions of about 8 cm to about 13 cm).

[0043] Other protein transcription stack configurations not explicitly shown in FIG. 2 are within the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., a protein transcription system 100 housing a single MIDI consumable protein transcription stack 202 in a single base (with no transcription stack on the other base), a protein transcription system 100 housing one or two MINI consumable protein transcription stacks 204 in a single base (with no transcription stack on the other base), a protein transcription system 100 housing a single MINI consumable protein transcription stack 204 in each of its bases, a protein transcription system 100 housing a single MINI consumable protein transcription stack 204 in one of its bases and two MINI consumable protein transcription stacks 204 in the other of its bases, a protein transcription system 100 housing a single mini consumable protein transcription stack 204 in one base and a single standard size protein transcription stack 202 in the other base, etc.). These and other combinations of two or more protein transcription stacks can be housed in a single base of the protein transcription system of the present disclosure and run simultaneously. Thus, in some embodiments and implementations, each base of the protein transcription system of the present disclosure can accommodate one or more protein transcription stacks and is configured to perform multiple protein transcription runs per base.

[0044] Exemplary Consumable Disengagement Mechanism As mentioned above, the consumable protein transfer stack often sticks to the cathode of a conventional protein transfer system during the protein transfer process, making it difficult for the user to remove the transfer stack and solid support membrane for further analysis. Figures 3A, 3B, and 3C show a front cross-sectional view of the lid 324 of the protein transfer system, illustrating an exemplary feature of the cathode plate 326 (e.g., corresponding to the cathode plate 126 of the lid 124 of the protein transfer system 100 of Figure 1) that provides a desired disengagement between the cathode plate 326 and the protein transfer stack after protein transfer is performed.

[0045] FIG. 3A shows a lid 324 closed over a base 322 (e.g., corresponding to base 122 in FIG. 1) and illustrates an exemplary positioning of a protein transfer stack 302 within the base 322. FIG. 3A further illustrates that the lid 324 can include a compression feature 340 that extends along the edge of the cathode plate 326 (an exemplary positioning of the compression feature relative to the cathode plate is also illustrated in FIG. 1, which shows the compression feature 140 positioned around the cathode plate 126). The particular forms of the compression feature 340 (and 140) described herein are provided by way of example only and are not intended to limit the principles described herein. For example, multiple compression features may be present along a single edge of the cathode plate, or the compression features may form a frame that extends around the entire perimeter of the cathode plate.

[0046] 3A, with the lid 324 closed over the base 322, the compression feature 340 is secured over the outer periphery of the protein transfer stack 302. The compression feature 340 may be formed at least in part from a flexible / elastic material and may be shaped to allow the compression feature 340 to exert a biasing force on the outer periphery (or other portion(s)) of the protein transfer stack 302.

[0047] 3A shows the cathode plate 326 in a disengaged position, in which the cathode plate 326 is disengaged from and not in contact with the protein transfer stack 302. In some embodiments, the cathode plate 326 is configured to translate into contact with the protein transfer stack 302 (e.g., translate to an engaged position). For example, FIG. 3B shows the cathode plate 326 translated from a disengaged position (not in contact with the protein transfer stack 302) to an engaged position (following the yellow arrow shown in FIG. 3B). FIG. 3B shows the cathode plate 326 extending into the volume of the protein transfer stack 302, and indicates that translation of the cathode plate 326 to the engaged position can cause the cathode plate 326 to exert a compressive force on the protein transfer stack 302. In some embodiments, the cathode plate 326 can be advanced to a number of different engagement positions, each associated with a respective amount of compressive force applied by the cathode plate 326 to the protein transfer stack 302 (e.g., to facilitate different protein transfer performance parameters).

[0048] Thus, the cathode plate 326 may translate in at least one dimension relative to the compression mechanism 340 (e.g., the compression mechanism 340 may remain in the same position relative to the protein transfer stack 302 as the cathode plate 326 translates to engage the protein transfer stack 302). The protein transfer process may be performed while the cathode plate 326 is in the engaged position. After completion of the protein transfer process, the cathode plate 326 may translate out of engagement with the protein transfer stack 302 (to a disengaged position), as indicated by the yellow arrow in FIG. 3C. While the cathode plate 326 translates out of engagement with the protein transfer stack 302, the compression mechanism 340 continues to apply a compressive force to the protein transfer stack 302, thereby retaining the protein transfer stack 302 and allowing the cathode plate 326 to be decoupled from the protein transfer stack 302 in a reliable and repeatable manner that avoids disturbance of the protein transfer stack 302.

[0049] Translation of the cathode plate 326 between the disengaged and engaged positions as shown in Figures 3B and 3C can be accomplished in a variety of ways. For example, a manual actuator of the protein transfer system may be mechanically coupled to the cathode plate 326 such that actuation of the actuator causes translation of the cathode plate 326. An exemplary form of such an actuator is shown in Figure 1 as a handle 142 of the lid 124, which may be rotated between an open position and a closed position to transition the cathode plate 126 between the disengaged (raised) and engaged (lowered) positions. In other examples, translation of the cathode plate 326 is accomplished via a motorized system, which may be controllable via the processor(s) 102, the storage 104, the user interface elements 120, and / or other components of the protein transfer system 100.

[0050] In light of the present disclosure, it will be understood that the compression mechanism of the protein transfer system can compress multiple protein transfer stacks simultaneously, and the cathode plate of the protein transfer system may translate to engage multiple protein transfer stacks simultaneously.

[0051] Exemplary Cooling System for Protein Transfer System FIG. 4 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of a protein transfer system (e.g., protein transfer system 100) and illustrates exemplary components of its cooling system. FIG. 4 illustrates that the cooling system of the protein transfer system may include a heat sink 402 connected to and in thermal communication with its cathode plate 326. During a protein transfer run, heat may be transferred from the protein transfer stack 302 to the cathode plate 326 and from the cathode plate 326 to the heat sink 402. The heat may then be dissipated from the heat sink 402 to the air surrounding the fins of the heat sink 402. The air surrounding the fins of the heat sink 402 may be continuously exchanged (e.g., via one or more fans) to facilitate continuous cooling of the protein transfer components of the protein transfer system (e.g., protein transfer system 100).

[0052] FIG. 5 illustrates a side cross-sectional view of a lid (e.g., corresponding to lid 124) of a protein transfer system (e.g., protein transfer system 100) showing an air cooling path (indicated by a red arrow in FIG. 5) extending through a heat sink of the protein transfer system 402. The movement of air along the air cooling path may be facilitated via one or more fans, such as fan 502 shown in FIG. 5. In the example of FIG. 5, operation of fan 502 may draw ambient air into the air cooling path via air inlet 550 on the protein transfer system (FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary arrangement of corresponding air inlets 150 on the protein transfer system 100). After entering through air inlet 550, the air may be directed through heat sink 402 (e.g., between the fins of heat sink 402) toward fan 502. The air may be heated while passing between heat sink 402 and then directed out of the protein transfer system via air outlet 560, thereby enabling the transfer of heat out of the protein transfer system to facilitate advantageous control over temperatures associated with a protein transfer run.

[0053] In view of the above, a cooling system of a protein transfer system (e.g., protein transfer system 100) may comprise a heat sink (e.g., connected to the cathode), an air inlet, an air outlet, and one or more fans configured to draw air through the air inlet and direct the air along an air cooling path that extends through the heat sink and toward the air outlet. In the example of Figure 5, the air inlet, heat sink, and air outlet are located on or within a lid (e.g., lid 124), although other configurations are within the scope of the present disclosure (e.g., placement of one or more of the aforementioned components on a base of the protein transfer system with a heat sink positioned to abut against the underside of a tray of a protein transfer stack).

[0054] The fan(s) of the cooling system of the protein transfer system (e.g., fan 502) may be operated in a variety of ways (e.g., via processor(s) 102, storage 104, and / or other components / controllers) to facilitate control of temperatures associated with one or more protein transfer runs. For example, the fan(s) may be operable at different fan speeds and / or may be configured to operate in response to different conditions (e.g., detection of one or more threshold temperature values ​​of the cathode plate, protein transfer stack, ambient environment, and / or other components, passage of a predetermined period of time, user input, etc.) to facilitate temperature control before, during, or after a protein transfer operation. As a non-limiting example, the fan(s) may be operated to cause temperatures associated with the cathode, base, tray, protein transfer stack, and / or other component(s) to approach or reach a predetermined target temperature or temperature curve during a protein transfer operation. As another example, the fan(s) may be configured to begin operation upon completion of a protein transfer run to cause the temperature of the cathode, base, tray, protein transfer stack, and / or other component(s) to approach or reach a predetermined target starting temperature after the protein transfer run and / or before a subsequent protein transfer run.

[0055] 6A and 6B show exemplary graphs illustrating heat sink temperature (an indication of stack temperature) during a protein transfer run under various cooling system settings. In FIG. 6A and 6B, blots 1, 2, 3, and 4 were run with the fan off, while blots 5, 6, 7, and 8 were run with the fan operating at 70% capacity, resulting in a reduction in heat sink temperature of approximately 9 degrees Celsius compared to the "fan off" run. FIG. 6B further shows that the temperature curve exhibited by the heat sink during a protein transfer run (e.g., temperature over time) can be more accurately repeated and / or reproduced by operating the fan.

[0056] In light of the present disclosure, it should be understood that a protein transfer system (e.g., protein transfer system 100) may include two cooling systems, with separate cooling associated with each of the base and / or lid of the protein transfer system.

[0057] Exemplary Transcription Stack Detection As noted above, conventional protein transfer systems lack mechanisms to prevent damage to the transcription stack that may result from an improper electrical connection between the transcription stack and a voltage source. Figure 7 shows an exemplary flow diagram illustrating operations associated with a transcription stack (or "consumable") detection operation 700 that may be performed by a protein transfer system (e.g., protein transfer system 100 via processor(s) 102, storage 104, and / or other components such as switches).

[0058] Operation 702 of the transcription stack detection operation 700 includes closing a transcription stack detection current path. The transcription stack detection current path may include one or more electrodes (e.g., cathode plate 126 and anode contact 128) of the protein transfer system for directing current through the consumable protein transcription stack(s) (if present). The transcription stack detection current path may further include a dummy load configured to limit the current flowing through the transcription stack detection current path. In some embodiments, the dummy load has a resistance in the range of about 10 ohms to about 22 ohms (e.g., 16 ohms) as provided by one or more resistors. In the event of a short circuit, the dummy load may prevent damage to the protein transcription stack.

[0059] Operation 704 of the transfer stack detection operation 700 includes applying a transfer stack detection voltage to the transfer stack detection current path. In some implementations, the transfer stack detection voltage is in a range between about 5V and about 13V.

[0060] Operation 706 of the transcription stack detection operation 700 includes measuring a transcription stack resistance resulting from a transcription stack detection voltage being applied to the transcription stack detection current path (e.g., according to operation 704). The measurement may be accomplished via one or more microcontrollers. The resistance measured according to operation 706 may indicate whether or not a proper connection exists between the protein transfer system and the consumable protein transcription stack. Thus, operation 708 of the transcription stack detection operation includes determining whether or not the measured resistance indicates a proper transcription stack connection. For example, operation 708 may include determining whether or not the measured resistance (e.g., "transcription stack resistance") meets a transcription stack detection condition. In a non-limiting example where the dummy load in the transcription stack detection current path includes 16 ohms, a detected resistance within a range of about 4 ohms to about 80 ohms may indicate a proper connection between the protein transfer system and the protein transcription stack. A detected resistance less than about 4 ohms may indicate a short exists in the connection, and a detected resistance greater than about 80 ohms may indicate an open circuit exists. Other ranges / conditions are within the scope of this disclosure.

[0061] In response to determining that the measured resistance satisfies the transcription stack detection condition(s) (indicated by "Yes" following operation 708 in FIG. 7), a transcription stack detection current path may be opened (operation 710) and a different current path (e.g., a "protein transcription current path") to facilitate protein transcription execution may be closed (operation 712). The protein transcription current path may also include one or more electrodes (e.g., cathode plate 126 and anode contact(s) 128) of the protein transfer system 100 to direct current through one or more consumable protein transcription stacks. The protein transfer current path omits a dummy load associated with the transcription stack detection current path.

[0062] With the protein transfer current pathway closed (in accordance with operation 712), a protein transfer voltage may be applied to the protein transfer current pathway (in accordance with operation 714), thereby facilitating protein transfer performance utilizing the protein transfer stack determined to be connected to the protein transfer system. In some embodiments, the protein transfer voltage is in a range of about 5 V to about 35 V. In some examples, the protein transfer voltage applied in accordance with operation 714 is higher than the transcription stack detection voltage applied in accordance with operation 704.

[0063] In response to determining that the measured resistance does not satisfy the transcription stack detection condition(s) (indicated by "No" following operation 708 in FIG. 7), the system may inhibit application of the protein transcription current to the protein transcription current pathway (operation 716). In some cases, the system may further display an indication (e.g., via user interface element 120) that the transcription stack detection condition(s) has not been satisfied (e.g., by providing a user prompt to modify a connection between the protein transcription stack and the protein transcription system).

[0064] Exemplary speaker system of the protein transfer system Figure 8 shows an exemplary schematic diagram of a speaker system 800 associated with a protein transfer system (e.g., protein transfer system 100). Figure 8 shows a speaker (represented in Figure 8 as a buzzer 802) connected to various voltage supplies 804, 806, and 808. The various voltage supplies 804, 806, and 808 may be controlled to cause the buzzer 802 to operate at various different voltage levels and output sounds at different volume levels.

[0065] As shown in Fig. 8, different voltage sources 804, 806, and 808 are associated with different voltage levels. For example, when voltage source 804 is active (and voltage sources 806 and 808 are inactive), a first voltage (e.g., 5V) is provided to buzzer 802 and a sound at a first volume level is emitted from buzzer 802. The other voltage sources 806 and 808 are selectively controlled via microcontrollers 810 and 812, respectively, and may operate in combination with voltage source 804 to cause buzzer 802 to operate at a higher voltage (to produce a louder sound) than the first voltage. For example, microcontroller 810 may operate voltage source 806 in combination with voltage source 804 to provide a second voltage (e.g., 12V) to the buzzer and cause a sound at a second volume level to be emitted from buzzer 802. Microcontroller 812 may operate voltage source 808 in combination with voltage source 804 (and possibly further in combination with voltage source 806) to provide a third voltage (e.g., 19.1 V) to the buzzer and cause a third volume level to sound from buzzer 802. Reverse polarity protection diodes 814, 816, and 818 may be implemented in association with the various voltage sources 804, 806, and 808, respectively, to protect the components.

[0066] 8 further illustrates an additional microcontroller 820 configured to control the frequency and / or duty cycle of the sound emitted by the buzzer 802. The additional microcontroller 820 may be utilized to modulate / select the sound emitted by the buzzer 802 to allow for customized buzzer sounds (e.g., allowing simple melodic music to be emitted by the buzzer 802).

[0067] 8 may enable the protein transfer system to emit sounds having volume levels that are adjusted to the surrounding laboratory conditions. For example, a protein transfer system located in a laboratory with a high level of ambient noise may operate the buzzer / speaker at a higher voltage so that sounds emitted by the protein transfer system are audible in the noisy laboratory environment, while a protein transfer system located in a laboratory with a low level of ambient noise may operate the buzzer / speaker at a lower voltage.

[0068] Additional Computer System Details The disclosed embodiments may comprise or utilize special purpose or general purpose computers including computer hardware, as discussed in more detail below. The disclosed embodiments may also include physical media and other computer readable media for carrying or storing computer executable instructions and / or data structures. Such computer readable media may be any available media accessible by a general purpose or special purpose computer system. Computer readable media that store computer executable instructions in the form of data are one or more "physical computer storage media" or "hardware storage device(s)". Computer readable media that simply hold computer executable instructions without storing them are "transmission media". Thus, by way of example and not limitation, the present embodiments may comprise at least two distinctly different kinds of computer readable media: computer storage media and transmission media.

[0069] A computer storage medium (also known as a "hardware storage device") is a computer-readable hardware storage device such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, CD-ROM, a RAM-based solid state drive ("SSD"), flash memory, phase-change memory ("PCM"), or other type of memory, or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage, or other magnetic storage device, or any other medium that can be used to store desired program code means in the form of computer-executable instructions, data, or data structures in hardware and that can be accessed by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer.

[0070] A "network" is defined as one or more data links that enable the transfer of electronic data between computer systems and / or modules and / or other electronic devices. When information is transferred or provided over a network or another communications connection (either hardwired, wireless, or a combination of hardwired or wireless) to a computer, the computer properly views the connection as a transmission medium. Transmission media can be used to carry program code in the form of computer-executable instructions or data structures and can include networks and / or data links accessible by a general-purpose or special-purpose computer. Combinations of the above are also included within the scope of computer-readable media.

[0071] Furthermore, upon reaching various computer system components, program code means in the form of computer executable instructions or data structures can be automatically transferred from a transmission computer readable medium to a physical computer storage medium (or vice versa). For example, computer executable instructions or data structures received over a network or data link may be buffered in a RAM in a network interface module (e.g., a "NIC") and eventually transferred to the computer system RAM and / or to a less volatile computer readable physical storage medium of the computer system. It should therefore be understood that computer readable physical storage media may be included in computer system components that also (or primarily) utilize a transmission medium.

[0072] Computer-executable instructions include, for example, instructions and data that cause a general purpose computer, special purpose computer, or special purpose processing device to perform a certain function or group of functions. Computer-executable instructions may be, for example, binaries, intermediate format instructions such as assembly language, or even source code.

[0073] The disclosed embodiments may include or utilize cloud computing. The cloud model may consist of a variety of characteristics (e.g., on-demand self-service, wide area network access, resource pooling, rapid elasticity, measured service, etc.), service models (e.g., Software as a Service ("SaaS"), Platform as a Service ("PaaS"), Infrastructure as a Service ("IaaS"), and deployment models (e.g., private cloud, community cloud, public cloud, hybrid cloud, etc.).

[0074] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention may be practiced in a network computing environment with many types of computer system configurations including personal computers, desktop computers, laptop computers, message processors, handheld devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, mobile phones, PDAs, pagers, routers, switches, wearable devices, etc. The present invention may also be practiced in a distributed system environment where tasks are performed by multiple computer systems (e.g., local and remote computer systems) that are linked through a network (either by wired data links, wireless data links, or a combination of wired and wireless data links). In a distributed system environment, program modules may be located in local and / or remote memory storage devices.

[0075] Alternatively or additionally, the functions described herein may be performed, at least in part, by one or more hardware logic components. For example, without limitation, exemplary types of hardware logic components that may be used include Field-programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), Program-specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs), Application-specific Standard Products (ASSPs), System-on-a-chip systems (SOCs), Complex Programmable Logic Devices (CPLDs), central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs), and / or others.

[0076] As used herein, the terms "executable module," "executable component," "component," "module," or "engine" may refer to a hardware processing unit or a software object, routine, or method that may be executed on one or more computer systems. The different components, modules, engines, and services described herein may be implemented as objects or processors (e.g., as separate threads) executing on one or more computer systems.

[0077] In some embodiments, the systems of the present disclosure may comprise or be configurable to execute any combination of software and / or hardware components operable to facilitate processing using machine learning models or other artificial intelligence based structures / architectures. For example, the one or more processors may include or utilize hardware components and / or computer-executable instructions operable to execute functional blocks and / or processing layers configured in the form of, for example, a single layer neural network, a feedforward neural network, a radial basis function network, a deep feedforward network, a recurrent neural network, a long-short term memory (LSTM) network, a gated recurrent unit, an autoencoder neural network, a variational autoencoder, a denoising autoencoder, a sparse autoencoder, a Markov chain, a Hopfield neural network, a Boltzmann machine network, a restricted Boltzmann machine network, a deep belief network, a deep convolutional network (or convolutional neural network), a deconvolutional neural network, a deep convolutional inverse neural network, a generative adversarial network, a liquid state machine, an extreme learning machine, an echo state network, a deep residual network, a Kohonen network, a support vector machine, a neural Turing machine, or the like, as non-limiting examples.

[0078] Various modifications and / or alterations of the features of the invention exemplified herein, and additional applications of the principles set forth herein, which will occur to those skilled in the relevant art and in possession of this disclosure, may be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the claims, and should be considered within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, while various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. Although many methods and components similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used to practice the embodiments of the disclosure, only specific components and methods are described herein.

[0079] It will also be understood that systems, devices, products, kits, methods, and / or processes according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure may include, incorporate, or otherwise include properties or features (e.g., components, members, elements, parts, and / or portions) described in other embodiments disclosed and / or described herein. Thus, various features of a particular embodiment may be compatible, combined, included, and / or incorporated with other embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, the disclosure of a particular feature in relation to a particular embodiment of the present disclosure should not be construed as limiting the application or inclusion of that feature to the particular embodiment. Rather, it will be understood that other embodiments may include such features, members, elements, parts, and / or portions without necessarily departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0080] Moreover, unless a feature is described as requiring another feature in combination, any feature herein can be combined with any other feature of the same or different embodiments disclosed herein. Moreover, various well-known aspects of example systems, methods, devices, and the like have not been described in particular detail herein to avoid obscuring aspects of the example embodiments. However, such aspects are also contemplated herein.

[0081] The present disclosure may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit or essential characteristics of the present invention. The described embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is therefore indicated by the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Although specific embodiments and details have been included in this specification and the accompanying disclosure for the purpose of illustrating embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications can be made in the methods, products, devices, and apparatuses disclosed herein without departing from the scope of the disclosure or the invention as defined by the appended claims. All changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their scope.

Claims

1. 1. A protein transcription system comprising: at least one base configured to receive one or more consumable protein transcription stacks; at least one lid configured to cover the at least one base, the at least one lid including one or more electrodes for supplying current to the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks; at least one voltage source configured to supply the current to the one or more consumable protein transcription stacks; one or more processors; one or more hardware storage devices storing instructions executable by the one or more processors to configure the protein transfer system to control the operation of the one or more voltage sources; The protein transcription system (1) a user interface element further configured to display information regarding the operation of the protein transfer system and / or to receive user input to facilitate control of the voltage source; or (2) the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to configure the protein transfer system to perform a consumable detection operation; Optionally, the at least one voltage source is configured to supply voltage to multiple lids independently; and / or A protein transfer system configured to facilitate rapid dry or semi-dry transfer of proteins for Western blotting.

2. It has two bases, 10. The protein transfer system of claim 1, wherein optionally, each said base is configured to accommodate one standard consumable protein transfer stack or two miniature consumable protein transfer stacks.

3. 3. The protein transfer system of claim 2, wherein the protein transfer system is configured to independently control voltage, programming method, start time, end time, cooling system control, and / or other protein transfer parameters for the two bases.

4. the one or more electrodes include one or more cathode plates and one or more anode contacts; Optionally, the cooling system further comprises: at least one heat sink in thermal communication with a corresponding cathode plate of a corresponding lid; at least one air inlet; at least one air outlet; and at least one fan configured to draw air through the at least one air inlet and direct the air along an air cooling path extending through the at least one heat sink and toward the at least one air outlet.

5. The instructions are executable by the one or more processors, the one or more processors: (1) configuring the protein transfer system to control operation of the fans to operate at different fan speeds and / or at different times within a protein transfer operation; (2) configuring the fan to operate during a protein transfer operation, and optionally the instructions configure the fan to cause a temperature associated with the at least one base to approach or reach a predetermined target temperature or temperature curve during the protein transfer operation; or (3) The protein transfer system of claim 4, wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to configure the fan to automatically begin operation at a predetermined point during a protein transfer operation, and optionally, the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to configure the fan to automatically begin operation upon completion of the protein transfer operation to cause a temperature associated with the at least one base to approach or reach a predetermined target starting temperature after the protein transfer operation and / or before a subsequent protein transfer operation.

6. The protein transfer system of claim 4 , wherein the protein transfer system comprises a plurality of cooling systems each independently associated with a separate base of the protein transfer system.

7. the lid comprising one or more compression features configured to securely cover at least a portion of a periphery of the consumable protein transfer stack when the lid is closed over the consumable protein transfer stack; (1) optionally, the compression mechanism extends along one or more edges of the one or more cathode plates of the lid; or (2) Optionally, the one or more cathode plates are configured to translate in at least one dimension relative to the one or more compression mechanism portions.

8. translation of the one or more cathode plates relative to the one or more compression mechanism portions is facilitated by an actuator associated with the lid; 8. The protein transfer system of claim 7, wherein optionally, the actuator is a handle disposed on the lid, and wherein movement of the handle between an open position and a closed position is configured to control movement of the one or more cathode plates between a raised, disengaged position and a lowered, engaged position.

9. 10. The protein transfer system of claim 8, wherein the one or more cathode plates are configured to translate from a disengaged position to an engaged position and vice versa.

10. when the one or more cathode plates are in the engaged position and the lid is closed on the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, the one or more cathode plates are in contact with the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, and when the one or more cathode plates are in the disengaged position and the lid is still closed on the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, the one or more cathode plates are disengaged from the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks; optionally, when the one or more cathode plates are translated from the engaged position to the disengaged position and the lid is closed over the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, the one or more compression mechanisms are configured to hold the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks with the one or more cathode plates disengaged from the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks; or 10. The protein transfer system of claim 9, wherein optionally, the one or more cathode plates are configured to translate to a plurality of different engagement positions, each of the plurality of different engagement positions being associated with a respective amount of compression applied to the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks by the one or more cathode plates when the lid is closed over the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks.

11. The instructions are executable by the one or more processors to configure the protein transfer system to perform a consumable detection operation, the consumable detection operation comprising: closing a consumable detection current path, the consumable detection current path including the one or more electrodes for directing current through the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, the consumable detection current path further including a dummy load configured to limit current through the consumable detection current path; applying a consumable detection voltage to the consumable detection current path; measuring a consumable resistance resulting from the consumable detection voltage applied to the consumable detection current path; determining whether the consumable resistor satisfies a consumable detection condition; 2. The protein transfer system of claim 1, further comprising: in response to determining that the consumable resistance satisfies the one or more consumable detection conditions, opening the consumable detection current path and closing a protein transfer current path, the protein transfer current path including the one or more electrodes for directing current through the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks, and the protein transfer current path omitting the dummy load.

12. the dummy load includes a resistance in the range of about 10 ohms to about 22 ohms, as provided by one or more resistors; the consumable detection condition includes detecting a consumable resistance within a range of about 4 ohms to about 80 ohms; The protein transcription system In response to the instructions determining that the consumable resistor does not satisfy the consumable detection condition, inhibiting application of a protein transcription current to the protein transcription current pathway; 12. The protein transfer system of claim 11, further configured to be executable by the one or more processors to configure the protein transfer system to display, on one or more user interface elements, an indication that the consumable detection condition has not been met.

13. 12. The protein transfer system of claim 11, wherein the instructions are executable by the one or more processors to further configure the protein transfer system to apply a protein transfer voltage to a protein transfer current path to facilitate protein transfer in the one or more consumable protein transfer stacks in response to determining that the consumable resistance satisfies the consumable detection condition.

14. the protein transfer voltage is greater than the consumable detection voltage; Optionally, the consumable detection voltage is in the range of about 5V to about 13V; Optionally, the protein transfer voltage is in the range of about 5V to about 35V.

15. a speaker configured to operate at a plurality of different voltage levels to output sound at different volume levels; a first voltage supply source that supplies a voltage to the speaker; one or more microcontrollers configured to control one or more additional voltage sources for supplying voltage to the speaker; a first reverse polarity protection diode interposed between the first voltage supply source and the speaker; one or more additional reverse polarity protection diodes interposed between each of the one or more additional voltage sources and the speaker; 10. The protein transfer system of claim 1, further comprising: an additional microcontroller configured to control the frequency and / or duty cycle of the speaker.

Images