Biomarker Cell Isolation With Integrated Microfluidic Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid handling systems are limited in their ability to efficiently isolate biomarker cells and extract DNA or RNA from liquid samples, often requiring multiple components and separate pumps, which can lead to loss of biomaterial and inefficiencies in fluid control.
Innovation Solution
A fluid-tight flow system utilizing a microfluidic chip with integrated automated pipetting channels and real-time feedback control, enabled by pressure sensors and programmable pumps, to manage fluid flow and isolate biomarker cells, extract DNA or RNA, and perform nucleic acid analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional liquid handling systems use multiple separate pumps and components to control fluid flow, then fluid control capability is improved, but device complexity increases and biomaterial loss occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple pump functions into a single integrated pump system that can simultaneously control multiple fluid streams. The pump assembly includes a common drive mechanism that operates multiple pistons or diaphragms in coordination, eliminating the need for separate pump units while maintaining independent control of each fluid channel.
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated pump system is designed to perform multiple functions: it can pump different fluids at different rates, reverse flow directions, and adjust flow patterns dynamically. A single pump assembly serves as both a propulsion system and a flow control mechanism for multiple channels, reducing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If conventional systems use multiple separate pumps and components, then fluid control is improved, but loss of biomaterial increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated pump design reduces the number of connection points and interface surfaces where biomaterial could be lost or contaminated. By consolidating multiple pump functions into one unit, the system minimizes the total surface area in contact with biomaterial and reduces opportunities for adsorption or contamination at interfaces.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates sensors that monitor fluid flow and biomaterial concentration in real-time, providing feedback to the control system. This allows dynamic adjustment of pump parameters to optimize recovery efficiency and minimize biomaterial loss during transfer and processing operations.
3Productivity
If automated pipetting channels are integrated into the microfluidic chip, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The automated pipetting channels are designed to nest within or integrate with the microfluidic chip structure. The pump components, pistons, and fluid pathways are arranged in a compact, hierarchical configuration where smaller elements are positioned within larger structural frameworks, reducing overall footprint and simplifying assembly.
Solution Approach 2:
The system design ensures that all critical components are positioned at standardized heights and locations, creating a level reference plane that simplifies alignment during manufacturing and assembly. This equipotential approach to component positioning reduces the precision requirements for complex multi-component integration.
Data Source
AI summary
The presently disclosed subject matter provides methods of isolating biomarker cells from a liquid sample, and related methods of capturing DNA or RNA released from biomarker cells.