Barrier-Integrated Biomolecule Isolation Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for biomolecule isolation and purification are laborious, time-consuming, and prone to contamination due to the need for multiple pipetting steps and the risk of cross-contamination during the treatment of biological samples.
Innovation Solution
A device with a hollow body and a non-permeable barrier that becomes liquid-permeable upon application of an external force, allowing for the temporary retention and controlled delivery of liquids, reducing the need for pipetting and minimizing contamination risks, by incorporating a liquid-permeable element such as a porous frit or membrane.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple pipetting steps are used for sample treatment, then sample isolation and purification can be achieved, but contamination risk increases and the process becomes laborious and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate pipetting steps into a single integrated device operation. The hollow body device with barrier and liquid-permeable element performs binding, washing, and elution functions in one continuous process, eliminating the need for repeated pipetting operations and reducing contamination risk while maintaining purification effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-contained sample processing where the barrier automatically retains liquids and the liquid-permeable element facilitates controlled flow through the matrix. The system performs isolation and purification functions autonomously without requiring external pipetting intervention, reducing labor and time requirements
2Reliability
If multiple pipetting steps are used for sample treatment, then sample isolation and purification can be achieved, but the number of operations increases making the process laborious
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate pipetting steps into a single integrated device operation. The hollow body device with barrier and liquid-permeable element performs binding, washing, and elution functions in one continuous process, eliminating the need for repeated pipetting operations and reducing contamination risk while maintaining purification effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The device enables self-contained sample processing where the barrier automatically retains liquids and the liquid-permeable element facilitates controlled flow through the matrix. The system performs isolation and purification functions autonomously without requiring external pipetting intervention, reducing labor and time requirements
3Quantity of substance
If a non-permeable barrier is used to retain liquid, then liquid can be temporarily held, but the barrier must be broken to release the liquid requiring an additional step
Solution Approach 1:
The barrier transitions from a static non-permeable state to a dynamic permeable state through application of external force. The barrier is designed to change its properties in response to applied force, allowing it to function as both a retention barrier and a controlled release mechanism in one continuous operation
Solution Approach 2:
The barrier's permeability parameter changes from impermeable to permeable when external force is applied. This parameter change allows the barrier to perform dual functions: retaining liquid during sample processing and releasing liquid for collection, eliminating the need for separate release steps
4Quantity of substance
If a porous liquid-permeable element is used, then liquid can flow through, but liquid cannot be retained without a barrier
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional zones: the barrier provides liquid retention in one zone, while the liquid-permeable element enables controlled flow in another zone. This segmentation allows both retention and flow functions to operate simultaneously in different parts of the device without interfering with each other
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid-permeable element acts as an intermediary between the barrier-retained liquid and the collection chamber. It mediates the transition from retained liquid to flowing liquid, allowing controlled passage while maintaining the integrity of the barrier retention system
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 method enables efficient isolation and purification of biomolecules with reduced pipetting steps and lower contamination risks, facilitating the collection, storage, and treatment of liquid samples while maintaining the integrity of the sample.
Implementation Method 1
the barrier (5) of the device breaks, is punctured, cut or ruptured by applying an external force to said barrier (5)
Implementation Method 2
at least one liquid permeable element (4), which is preferably a porous frit, filter, fleece or membrane
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3~5
AI summary
The present invention refers to a device, comprising a hollow body having at least one open end and at least one barrier inside or at the end of the hollow body, which is non-permeable for liquids and solids under ambience conditions, however, becomes liquid-permeable by applying an external force like pressure, drag force or driving power to said barrier, the use of such a device for collection, storage, treatment or isolation of a biomolecule or biomolecules containing samples, a method for preparation of said device and a method for isolation or purification of any biomolecules using said device.