Casein-Micelle Blocking Layer for Selective Molecular Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Modern biological sensors using nanostructures suffer from non-specific interactions with biomolecules, leading to decreased sensitivity and false positives, as well as complete sensor surface blocking, necessitating a more sensitive detection method.
Innovation Solution
A sensor comprising a layer of high aspect ratio molecular structures (HARM-structures) with a blocking layer of casein micelles, where casein micelles are functionalized with amine-reactive-crosslinkers to form linkage groups and cavities, allowing selective binding and diffusion of signal molecules for accurate electrical signal generation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If nanostructures are used to enhance sensor sensitivity and surface area, then detection capability is improved, but non-specific interactions with biomolecules increase causing false positives and sensor surface blocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a blocking layer as an intermediary component between the nanostructure sensor surface and the sample biomolecules. This blocking layer selectively prevents non-specific interactions while allowing specific target molecules to reach the sensor surface, thereby reducing false positives without compromising detection sensitivity
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking layer is designed with non-uniform properties: it provides broad coverage to prevent non-specific binding while maintaining localized permeability or specific interaction sites that allow target molecules to reach the nanostructure surface. This creates different functional zones within the same layer
2Measurement precision
If nanostructures are used to increase surface area for biomolecule interaction, then detection capability is improved, but biomolecules may block the sensor surface completely disabling the sensor
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking layer acts as a protective intermediary that prevents biomolecules from directly contacting and blocking the nanostructure surface. It maintains the sensor's electrical properties while still enabling target molecule detection through controlled interaction pathways
Solution Approach 2:
The blocking layer is designed with porous or permeable characteristics that allow signal molecules and target analytes to diffuse through to the nanostructure surface while physically preventing larger biomolecules from blocking the sensor surface completely
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 sensor effectively prevents non-specific binding of biomolecules while enabling sensitive and accurate detection of target molecules, allowing for multiplexed analysis and quantification of target concentrations.
Implementation Method 1
cavities are formed between the plurality of casein micelles for allowing the signal molecules to diffuse through the blocking layer to the layer formed of HARM-structures
Implementation Method 2
the layer formed of HARM-structures is configured to generate an electrical signal when in contact with signal molecules indicating the presence of the at least one target molecule when an electrical potential is applied to the sensor
Implementation Method 3
the casein micelles comprise primary amines, wherein at least part of the primary amines is functionalized with an amine-reactive-crosslinker thereby providing at least one linkage group for allowing binding thereto
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
A sensor for determining the presence of at least one target molecule in a sample is disclosed. The sensor comprises a layer formed of high aspect ratio molecular structures (HARM-structures); and a blocking layer on the layer formed of HARM-structures, wherein the blocking layer is formed of a plurality of casein micelles, wherein: the casein micelles comprise primary amines, wherein at least part of the primary amines are functionalized with an amine-reactive crosslinker, and cavities are formed between the plurality of casein micelles. Further, a method for determining the presence of at least one target molecule in a sample is disclosed. Further, a process of preparing a sensor for determining the presence of at least one target molecule in a sample is disclosed. Further, a kit for determining the presence of at least one target molecule in a sample is disclosed.