Multiple Discrimination Device for Cancer Cell Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for analyzing cancer cells in blood are inefficient due to the low concentration of cancer cells, requiring extensive time and often providing only information on their existence and quantity, with interference from other blood cells, and are unable to accurately differentiate cancer types.
Innovation Solution
A multiple discrimination device featuring a channel with ferromagnetic patterns of varying slope and shape, coupled with a permanent magnet, which separates target and non-target particles based on magnetic forces, allowing for precise discrimination of cancer cells from blood using a mixture solution and buffer solution.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional methods are used to analyze cancer cells in blood, then analysis can be performed, but the low concentration of cancer cells (one per billion or one per 10^6 to 10^7 white blood cells) makes precise analysis difficult and requires very exquisite analysis methods
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the blood sample analysis process into multiple discrimination stages using different ferromagnetic patterns with varying slopes. Target particles are separated from non-target particles through sequential magnetic field interactions, allowing precise identification of rare cancer cells amidst billions of normal cells.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical separation methods with magnetic field-based separation. Ferromagnetic patterns generate magnetic forces that act on magnetically-labeled target particles, enabling non-contact, high-precision separation and discrimination of cancer cells from blood samples.
2Loss of information
If various discrimination methods are researched, then information on existence and amount of cancer cells can be obtained, but much time is necessary and only existence and amount information is provided, not cancer type analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple discrimination device performs multiple functions simultaneously: it separates target from non-target particles, identifies cancer cell presence, quantifies cancer cell amount, and determines cancer type through specific magnetic pattern interactions. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for sequential testing methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The device performs preliminary separation and concentration of cancer cells using ferromagnetic patterns before final identification. This preliminary action concentrates the rare target particles and removes interfering blood cells, enabling rapid subsequent analysis of cancer type without time-consuming preliminary steps.
3Measurement precision
If conventional analysis methods are used, then cancer cell analysis can be performed, but interference caused by specific-coupled blood cells occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies different magnetic field strengths and gradient characteristics at different locations within the channel using ferromagnetic patterns with varying slopes. This local variation in magnetic field quality allows selective interaction with magnetically-labeled cancer cells while non-magnetic or weakly-magnetic blood cells follow different trajectories, eliminating interference.
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
The device effectively discriminates cancer cells from normal cells by leveraging magnetic forces, enabling efficient separation and analysis of cancer cells, even at low concentrations, thereby improving cancer diagnosis and prognosis.
Implementation Method 1
separates target and non-target particles based on magnetic forces
Implementation Method 2
at least one permanent magnet disposed adjacently to the channel
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a multiple discrimination device and a method of manufacturing the same. According to the multiple discrimination device, a three-dimensional micro ferromagnetic pattern is optimally designed and arranged to allow a magnetic force applied to a discrimination-target particle to be discriminated to be well controlled to perform discrimination well. The method employs a semiconductor processing technology, thereby precisely manufacturing and allowing mass production.