Capture Object Immobilization via Force Fields and Meniscus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analyte capture assays face challenges in achieving high sensitivity due to low efficiency in capturing and detecting analyte molecules, particularly at low concentrations, often requiring large numbers of capture objects and resulting in insufficient signal and increased noise.
Innovation Solution
The use of force fields and fluid meniscus forces to immobilize capture objects at assay sites, combined with advanced sample handling and imaging techniques, allows for high-efficiency capture and detection of analyte molecules using fewer capture objects, improving sensitivity and reducing noise.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If large numbers of capture objects are used, then capture capacity is improved, but assay sensitivity deteriorates due to insufficient signal and increased noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical mixing and manual handling with automated liquid handling systems, acoustic fields, and magnetic fields to improve capture object delivery efficiency and reduce loss, thereby achieving high sensitivity with fewer capture objects
Solution Approach 2:
The patent optimizes parameters such as capture object concentration, incubation time, temperature, and washing conditions to maximize analyte capture efficiency while minimizing background noise, enabling sensitive detection without requiring large numbers of capture objects
2Measurement precision
If fewer capture objects are used, then assay sensitivity is improved, but capture efficiency deteriorates resulting in low detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions including pre-coating capture objects, pre-incubation with capture reagents, and pre-positioning in arrays before analyte addition to ensure maximum capture efficiency with minimal capture objects
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary substances such as bridge molecules, fluorescent labels, and enzymatic amplifiers that enhance the interaction between capture objects and analytes, improving detection sensitivity without increasing capture object numbers
3Ease of operation
If conventional sample handling is used, then procedure simplicity is maintained, but capture object loss increases reducing detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs self-service mechanisms such as acoustic levitation for contactless transfer, magnetic field-guided positioning, and automated liquid handling systems that minimize manual intervention and capture object loss while maintaining operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses pneumatic and hydraulic systems for precise liquid handling, meniscus-controlled dispensing, and pressure-driven transfer of capture objects to reduce loss and improve detection accuracy without complicating the procedure
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 the detection of analyte molecules at femtomolar or attomolar levels with a high percentage of capture objects being effectively utilized, enhancing the sensitivity and efficiency of analyte capture assays.
Implementation Method 1
generating a force field in proximity to the surface tending to act on the capture objects such that the capture objects move toward the surface
Implementation Method 2
flowing a fluid plug containing the capture objects in a first direction such that a first direction receding meniscus of the fluid plug flows across at least some of the assay sites
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for capture object-based assays, including for determining a measure of the concentration of an analyte molecule or particle in a fluid sample, are described. The methods and systems may relate to high sensitivity detection of analytes, sometimes using assay conditions and sample handling that result in the capture and detection of a high percentage of the analyte molecules or particles in a fluid sample using relatively few capture objects. Apparatuses and methods for immobilizing capture objects with respect to assay sites, in some instances with unexpectedly high efficiencies are also described. Some such apparatuses involve the use of force fields and fluid meniscus forces, alone or in combination, to facilitate or improve capture object immobilization. Also described are techniques for utilizing a relatively high percentage of capture objects in an assay sample, such as by using disclosed sample washing techniques, imaging systems, and analysis procedures that can reduce capture object loss.