Biomarker Detection System UV Autofluorescence Interference

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current diagnostic systems face challenges in detecting ultraviolet (UV) light emitting biomarkers due to interference from background visible light, which hinders the effective detection of UV light emitted by biomarkers and bacteria.

Innovation Solution

A biomarker detection system comprising a light emitting diode that excites biomarkers to emit light in the UV wavelength range of 100 nm to 450 nm, combined with a light detecting device such as a photodiode or CMOS camera, and a signal processor to generate detection results, with optional anti-reflective coatings and power sources for portability and accuracy.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If photodiodes are used to detect UV light emitted by biomarkers, then detection sensitivity is improved, but background visible light interference worsens the detection accuracy

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection sensitivityVSAvoidbackground light interference
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system segments the light spectrum by using multiple photodiodes with different spectral sensitivity ranges. Each photodiode is optimized to detect specific wavelength bands, allowing the system to isolate UV signals from visible light background interference through spectral decomposition

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Optical filters are introduced as intermediary elements between the biomarkers and photodiodes. These filters selectively transmit UV wavelengths while blocking visible light, acting as a mediator that allows desired UV signals to reach the detector while preventing harmful visible light interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If labeling is used to enhance biomarker detection, then detection reliability is improved, but system complexity and cost worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection reliabilityVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system exploits the natural autofluorescence property of certain biomarkers and bacteria, which spontaneously emit UV light when excited by appropriate wavelengths. This self-service approach eliminates the need for external labeling agents, simplifying the system while maintaining reliable detection of endogenous biomarkers

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The detection system changes the operational parameters by detecting intrinsic optical properties (autofluorescence wavelengths) of biomarkers rather than relying on exogenous labels. This parameter-based detection method achieves reliable identification through spectral fingerprinting of natural biomarker emissions

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

3Ease of operation

If portable detection systems are deployed in remote environments, then accessibility is improved, but power consumption and device complexity worsen

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveportabilityVSAvoidpower consumption
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSUse of energy by moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The system employs periodic or pulsed illumination instead of continuous light emission to excite biomarkers. This periodic action reduces average power consumption while maintaining sufficient signal generation for detection, enabling portable operation in battery-powered remote devices

Inventive Principle:
Principle #19Periodic action

Solution Approach 2:

The portable detection system integrates multiple functions into a single device: light emission, UV detection, signal processing, and data analysis. This multi-functionality consolidates what would otherwise require separate equipment, making the system portable while managing power consumption through efficient integration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 efficient detection of autofluorescent biomarkers like bacteria and molecules without labeling, providing quick, cost-effective, and sensitive diagnostics, suitable for remote and resource-limited environments, with the ability to perform real-time diagnosis and identification of biomarkers in various settings.

Implementation Method 1

at least one light emitting diode, wherein the at least one light emitting diode emits an excitation light that excites a biomarker

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight Emitting Diode: Light Emitting Diode

Implementation Method 2

the biomarker auto-fluoresces and emits a light in a wavelength from 100 nm to 450 nm

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAuto-fluorescence: Fluorescence

Implementation Method 3

When activated by light, a photodiode can absorb photons and create a current

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotoelectric Effect: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 4

the at least one light detecting device comprises an anti-reflective coating that is selectively transmissible to the emitted light of the biomarker

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAnti-Reflective Coating: Anti-Reflective Coating

Data Source

PatentUS20240023811A1Systems for Biomarker Detection and Methods Thereof
Publication Date: 2024.01.25 CALIFORNIA INST OF TECH
  • US20240023811A1 patent drawing
  • US20240023811A1 patent drawing
  • US20240023811A1 patent drawing

AI summary

Systems and method for detecting light emitting biomarkers are described. The detection systems can be tuned to detect desired wavelengths emitted from biomarkers. The compact and cost-effective detection systems can provide detection results of the biomarkers in a timely manner.