Barcoded Nucleic Acid Reporter for Single Cell Analyte Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for profiling cellular antigens in microfluidic systems are costly, lack sensitivity, and have limited functionality, hindering advancements in drug delivery and cell profiling.
Innovation Solution
The use of a reporter agent comprising a first aptamer with a domain that binds an analyte and a second domain responsive to analyte binding, generating barcoded nucleic acid molecules to identify or characterize cells or nuclei secreting analytes, enabling enhanced detection and characterization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If reporter oligonucleotides are used in microfluidic systems for cellular antigen profiling, then antigen detection capability is enabled, but cost increases and sensitivity is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses barcoded nucleic acid molecules as copies or proxies for traditional antibody-based reporter oligonucleotides. These barcoded molecules can be synthesized at lower cost while maintaining detection capability through nucleic acid-based identification rather than expensive antibody-conjugate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the fundamental parameter of the reporter agent from antibody-based to nucleic acid-based (barcoded molecules). This parameter change enables both cost reduction through simpler synthesis and improved sensitivity through enhanced detection capabilities of nucleic acid-based systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional antibody-based reporter oligonucleotides are used, then antigen binding is achieved, but functionality is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The barcoded nucleic acid molecules serve multiple functions: they can bind to various cellular antigens, be detected through sequencing, and allow for multiplexed analysis of multiple cell types simultaneously. This universal platform increases functionality while the modular barcode design simplifies the overall reagent system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces barcoded nucleic acid molecules as intermediary agents that mediate between the antibody-antigen interaction and the detection system. These intermediaries enable versatile functionality by serving as adaptable linkers that can be configured for different detection needs while simplifying the connection between biological targets and analytical instruments.
3Measurement precision
If cellular antigen profiling is performed with existing methods, then basic characterization is achieved, but sensitivity and analytical depth are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The use of barcoded nucleic acid copies instead of expensive antibody reagents enables high-sensitivity detection at reduced cost. The barcoded molecules can be amplified and detected with high precision through sequencing technologies, providing both improved analytical sensitivity and cost efficiency.
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 improves the sensitivity and functionality of antigen detection, reducing costs and enhancing the ability to characterize analyte secretion profiles, thereby facilitating advancements in drug delivery and cell profiling.
Implementation Method 1
a first aptamer that comprises: a first domain that binds the analyte
Implementation Method 2
a third domain which is responsive to the analyte binding the first domain
Implementation Method 3
a subdomain capable of uptake of the detectable moiety in response to the analyte binding to the first domain
Implementation Method 4
a subdomain capable of release of the detectable moiety in response to the analyte binding the first domain
Implementation Method 5
a lipophilic moiety that embeds the first aptamer in the cell or nuclear membrane
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to compositions and methods for secreted analyte detection and analysis. The analytes detected and analyzed are mapped to a cell or nucleus having secreted the analyte and are useful to characterize the cell or nucleus. The ability to understand analyte secretion events has implications for the improvement of drug delivery, cell profiling, and diagnostic development.