Actuated DNA Sensor Surface for Faster Analyte Transport
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electrochemical sensors used for biological and chemical assays face slow measurement times due to the rate-determining step of analyte diffusion to the sensing surface, which hinders applications like point-of-care testing.
Innovation Solution
A sensor assembly with anchored polynucleotide chains, such as DNA, on the sensing surface, and an actuation unit to move these chains in multiple directions, enhancing mixing and interaction with the sample to accelerate analyte transport.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If analyte transport to sensing surface is achieved by diffusion, then measurement can be performed with simple system structure, but measurement time is slow (several minutes to 30 minutes)
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing species are made movable rather than static, anchored to the sensing surface but capable of moving in response to applied forces. This dynamic configuration allows the mixing species to actively transport analytes across the sample, dramatically reducing measurement time from minutes to seconds while maintaining a relatively simple overall system structure
Solution Approach 2:
Mixing species comprising polynucleotide chains serve as intermediary elements between the sample and the sensing surface. These intermediaries are anchored to the sensing surface and facilitate analyte transport through their movement when force is applied, enabling faster measurement without requiring complex external mixing mechanisms
2Speed
If mixing species comprising polynucleotide chains are anchored to sensing surface and moved by actuation unit, then analyte transport speed is increased, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical mixing systems with a more elegant solution using polynucleotide chains that respond to applied forces. Instead of using mechanical stirrers or pumps, the mixing species themselves are moved by applying force (such as electrophoretic or magnetic forces), simplifying the mechanical components while achieving effective mixing and faster analyte transport
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical state and movement characteristics of the mixing species by applying forces to them. By controlling the force application parameters (magnitude, direction, timing), the system achieves rapid analyte transport without requiring complex mechanical structures, effectively using parameter control to replace structural complexity
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach reduces measurement time by increasing analyte movement to the sensing surface beyond diffusion, enhances sensitivity by disrupting the electric double layer, and improves incubation efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
an actuation unit configured to move at least a part of each mixing species in a plurality of directions relative to the sensing surface by applying a force to the mixing species so as to mix sample adjacent to or on the sensing surface
Implementation Method 2
enhances sensitivity by disrupting the electric double layer
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides sensor assemblies comprising a plurality of mixing species provided adjacent or on the sensing surface, wherein each mixing species comprises a polynucleotide chain and wherein each mixing species is anchored to the sensor assembly; and an actuation unit configured to move at least a part of each mixing species in a plurality of directions. Alternatively or additionally, the polynucleotide chain comprises DNA and has a length of at least 10 nm.