Biochip Segmentation for Multiplex DNA Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current DNA detection methods in integrated biochips, such as capillary electrophoresis and microarray technology, face limitations in multiplexing capabilities due to size constraints and non-specific amplification issues, requiring expensive optics and being limited to detecting fewer DNA fragments, whereas traditional qPCR systems are cost-effective but restricted to fewer color detections.
Innovation Solution
A functionally integrated biochip with multiple separation and detection chambers, each containing unique DNA probes, allows for space separation and detection of DNA fragments, enabling the use of low-cost qPCR optics while increasing fragment detection capability by several folds, and includes features like universal Luer taper-type connectors for quick reagent connection and a closed system with integrated reagent cartridges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If capillary electrophoresis or mass spectroscopy is used for DNA fragment detection, then multiple DNA fragments can be detected, but the DNA fragments must be of unique sizes larger than the separation resolution and expensive optics are required
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent detection chambers, each capable of detecting DNA fragments with a specific fluorophore. This allows parallel detection of multiple DNA fragments without requiring size-based separation, eliminating the need for expensive optics and complex separation resolution while increasing the number of detectable DNA fragments
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from size-based detection (one dimension) to fluorophore-based detection (another dimension). By detecting DNA fragments based on their fluorescent labels rather than size, the system can simultaneously detect multiple fragments of similar sizes using different fluorophores, thereby increasing detection capacity without requiring expensive separation optics
2Measurement precision
If qPCR with TaqMan probe method is used, then detection specificity is improved, but the number of DNA fragments detectable is limited by the number of color detections
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the detection function into multiple independent detection chambers, each optimized for a specific fluorophore. This segmentation allows the system to maintain the high specificity of qPCR probe-based detection while expanding the total number of detectable DNA fragments by distributing different probe-fluorophore combinations across multiple chambers
Solution Approach 2:
Each detection chamber is designed to be universal for its assigned fluorophore, accommodating multiple DNA fragment targets that share the same fluorophore label. This multi-functionality allows a single chamber to detect multiple DNA fragments simultaneously, thereby increasing the total detection capacity beyond the limitation of color-based detection
3Productivity
If multiplex PCR or isothermal amplification is used, then the ability to amplify several DNA fragments is improved, but non-specific amplification interference increases when DNA fragments are similar in size
Solution Approach 1:
The invention shifts the discrimination dimension from size-based separation to fluorophore-based identification. By assigning unique fluorophores to different DNA fragment targets, the system can reliably distinguish between specific and non-specific amplification products even when they have similar sizes, thereby maintaining high productivity while improving reliability
Data Source
AI summary
A biochip for multiplex genetic identification is disclosed. An biochip for separating and detecting a plurality of DNA fragments includes a set of inputs and chambers for receiving a sample matrix of genetic material and reagents needed to conduct a polymerase chain reaction amplification of the genetic material. The biochip also includes a plurality of separation and detection chambers that physically separate different DNA fragments that have been marked with labels that emit similar colors, thereby enabling the independent detection of the different DNA fragments.