Agitated Carrier for Rapid Analyte Detection in Liquid Samples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting Mycoplasma species in liquid samples are inadequate due to the absence of a cell wall, making traditional antibiotics ineffective, and existing detection technologies are not suited for rapid and concurrent detection of multiple analytes.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a support with a chamber and a carrier or agitator equipped with anti-analyte antibodies, which agitates the liquid sample to facilitate binding of analytes to antibodies, allowing for quantitative or qualitative detection using techniques like microscopy, immunoassays, or fluorescent assays.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional detection methods are used for Mycoplasma species, then detection can be performed with simple equipment, but detection speed is slow and multiple analytes cannot be detected concurrently
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the detection chamber into multiple discrete binding sites, each equipped with specific antibodies for different analytes. This segmentation allows simultaneous detection of multiple analytes in separate locations within the same chamber, increasing productivity without requiring multiple separate devices.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection device is designed with multi-functionality to detect various analytes including Mycoplasma species, bacteria, and viruses simultaneously within a single integrated system. The chamber can accommodate multiple types of antibodies and detection methods, making the device universal for diverse detection needs.
2Productivity
If passive diffusion is used for analyte-antibody binding, then the device structure can be simple, but binding efficiency is insufficient for rapid detection
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates a dynamic agitation mechanism that actively moves the liquid sample through the chamber, bringing analytes into close physical proximity with antibodies. This dynamic approach replaces passive diffusion with active mixing, significantly enhancing binding efficiency and detection speed.
Solution Approach 2:
The agitation mechanism utilizes mechanical vibration or oscillation to mix the liquid sample vigorously, ensuring thorough contact between analytes and antibodies. This mechanical action accelerates the binding process by continuously renewing the interface between sample and antibody surfaces.
3Measurement precision
If multiple antibodies are bound at the same location on the carrier, then the device structure can be simpler, but cross-reactivity and detection accuracy decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The device implements local quality by assigning specific antibodies to specific discrete locations on the carrier surface. Each binding site is optimized for a particular analyte, preventing cross-reactivity and ensuring high detection accuracy. This spatial differentiation of antibody functions resolves the conflict between simplicity and precision.
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
Enables rapid and efficient detection of Mycoplasma species and other analytes in liquid samples, overcoming the limitations of traditional detection methods by ensuring binding of analytes to antibodies, even in the absence of a cell wall, and allowing for the detection of multiple analytes simultaneously.
Implementation Method 1
at least one anti-analyte antibody coupled to either the carrier and/or the chamber side or end wall
Implementation Method 2
The carrier or agitator is configured so as to bring analytes into sufficiently close physical proximity with their corresponding antibody to cause binding
Data Source
AI summary
A device for detecting at least one analyte in a liquid sample generally comprises (i) a support having a chamber for receiving a biological fluid (e.g., milk) therein, wherein said chamber is an elongate chamber having a length axis; (ii) a (stationary or movable) carrier (in some embodiments in the form of an end cap, or connected to an end cap; in other embodiments in the form of an agitator in said elongate chamber).