Capillary Tube Micro-Separation for Antigen Quantification

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for separating micro-sized analytes from fluid samples are inefficient, particularly in accurately quantifying and isolating specific antigens due to lack of specificity and sensitivity in antigen-antibody binding processes.

Innovation Solution

The use of capillary tubes with antigen-binding entities attached to specific sections, which can selectively bind and release antigens, combined with sensors to detect and quantify bound species, and a system of interconnected tubes for efficient separation and distribution of analytes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional methods are used for separating micro-sized analytes, then the separation process can be performed, but the accuracy and sensitivity of antigen quantification deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveantigen quantification accuracyVSAvoidseparation efficiency

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The capillary tube is divided into multiple functional sections: a first section with species-binding entities for selective antigen binding, a second section for washing/unbound species removal, and a third section for detection. This segmentation allows each section to perform its specific function optimally, improving both measurement precision and separation reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Species-binding entities (such as antibodies) are introduced as intermediary components within the capillary tube to mediate the separation process. These entities selectively bind to target antigens, enabling precise quantification while maintaining reliable separation through specific antigen-antibody interactions

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Reliability

If antigen binding entities are fixed within the capillary tube, then selective binding can occur, but the ability to release and reuse the tube deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveselective binding capabilityVSAvoidtube reusability

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from static fixed binding entities to dynamic controllable release entities. The species-binding entities are initially fixed for selective binding, then can be released through controlled mechanisms (such as pH changes or competitive binding), enabling the capillary tube to be reused for multiple analysis cycles while maintaining binding reliability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #15Dynamics

3Adaptability or versatility

If a plurality of tubes is connected through a junction, then multiplexing and distribution capability improves, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemultiplexing capabilityVSAvoidsystem structure

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Multiple capillary tubes are merged at a common junction point, creating a compact multiplexed system. This combining approach allows simultaneous distribution of different bio-specimens to multiple receiving sites while maintaining a relatively simple overall structure, balancing versatility with manageable complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

4Measurement precision

If capillary tubes with cross-section diameter of no greater than 1 micron are used, then separation precision and sensitivity improve, but the difficulty of manufacturing and assembly increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveseparation precisionVSAvoidtube fabrication

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The capillary tube dimensions are precisely controlled at the micrometer scale (cross-section diameter ≤1 micron) to optimize separation precision and sensitivity. This parameter change enables high-resolution separation of micro-sized analytes while the standardized fabrication approach helps manage manufacturing complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

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 approach enables precise separation and quantification of micro-sized analytes, improving the sensitivity and specificity of antigen detection, and allows for efficient distribution of bio-specimens for further analysis, even at nanoscale volumes.

Implementation Method 1

antigen binding entities (e.g., antibodies) are attached within a capillary tube. These antigen binding entities may bind a specific antigen and separate the antigen from a sample flowing through the capillary tube

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAntigen-antibody binding: Adsorption