Analyte Detection Device Using Absorbent Pad Concentration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current chemiluminescence-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) require large sample volumes and non-specific binding methods, while quantum dot-linked immunosorbent assays (QLISA) face accuracy issues due to the transfer step of solid supports from liquid samples, leading to potential loss and diminished results.
Innovation Solution
A device and method for detecting analytes using a sample loading region, imaging window, and absorbent pad to concentrate solid support structures within a small volume, allowing for accurate imaging and quantification without the need for additional transfer steps, utilizing quantum dots and various solid support substrates like microspheres and nanospheres.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If solid support structures are filtered and transferred from liquid sample to holder for imaging, then detection can be performed, but some spheres are lost during transfer, diminishing accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the filtration and imaging functions into a single integrated device. The solid support structures are captured within the device itself through the absorbent pad mechanism, eliminating the need for separate transfer to another holder. This merging of functions prevents sphere loss during transfer while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The absorbent pad serves as an intermediary component that captures solid support structures from the liquid sample and holds them in place for imaging. This intermediary mechanism allows the spheres to be retained within the device without requiring manual transfer, thus preventing loss while enabling detection.
2Measurement precision
If traditional ELISA is used to detect analyte at picomolar concentrations, then detection is achieved, but large sample volume (50 μL) is required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameters by using quantum dots with high quantum yield and narrow emission spectra, which provide superior signal-to-noise ratios compared to traditional ELISA. This parameter change enables detection at picomolar concentrations with reduced sample volumes (1-5 μL), representing a ten-fold decrease from traditional ELISA requirements.
3Measurement precision
If quantum dots are used for analyte detection at reduced sample volumes, then detection sensitivity is improved, but solid supports must be separated from liquid which complicates the process
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the separation and detection functions into a single integrated system. The absorbent pad automatically separates the solid support structures from the liquid sample through capillary action, and the same device provides the imaging capability. This eliminates complex manual separation steps while maintaining detection sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The absorbent pad performs self-service separation through capillary action, automatically drawing the liquid sample through the device and retaining the solid support structures in the well without requiring external intervention. This self-service mechanism simplifies the overall process while maintaining the sensitivity benefits of quantum dot detection.
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 accurate and efficient detection and quantification of analytes at reduced sample volumes by concentrating solid support structures and using quantum dots for precise imaging, improving the accuracy and efficiency of the analysis process.
Implementation Method 1
the well is in fluid communication with the absorbent pad, such that when a fluid sample comprising solid support structures and a liquid carrier are applied to the sample loading region, the fluid sample travels to the well and at least part of the liquid carrier is absorbed into the absorbent pad
Implementation Method 2
Quantum dot-linked immunosorbent assay (QLISA) is an alternative technique where antibodies are conjugated to fluorescent nanoparticles (quantum dots) for detection and quantitation of the desired analyte
Data Source
AI summary
One aspect of the invention provides a device for detecting an analyte in a sample. The device includes: a sample loading region, an imaging window, a well, and an absorbent pad. The sample loading region is in fluid communication with the well. The well is in fluid communication with the absorbent pad, such that when a fluid sample comprising solid support structures and a liquid carrier are applied to the sample loading region, the fluid sample travels to the well and at least part of the liquid carrier is absorbed into the absorbent pad.