Negatively Charged Polymer-Threaded Nanopore for Molecule Discrimination

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing nanopore-based sequencing systems face challenges in efficiently discriminating between different molecules, such as nucleotides or polymer tags, due to limited conductance and differentiation capabilities of the nanopores.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating a charged polymer through the channel of the nanopore, which enhances the conductance and aids in distinguishing between molecules by facilitating counter-ion transport.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If a nanopore is used for sequencing, then molecule detection is enabled, but conductance is limited and discrimination between different molecules is difficult

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvediscrimination capabilityVSAvoidconductance

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

A charged polymer is introduced as an intermediary substance within the nanopore channel. The polymer threads through the channel and acts as a mediator that enhances ion transport and improves the conductance signal, thereby enabling better discrimination between different molecules while maintaining reliable electrical conductance

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The electrical conductance parameter of the nanopore is changed by introducing the charged polymer. The polymer's charge creates additional ionic pathways and modifies the electrical properties of the channel, transforming the conductance characteristics to improve both measurement precision and reliability

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

The inclusion of a charged polymer significantly increases the conductance of the nanopore, improving the ability to discriminate between different molecules during sequencing, thereby enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of nucleic acid sequencing.

Implementation Method 1

a negatively charged region disposed in and extending through substantially the entire length of the channel

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectCounter-ion transport: Electrophoresis

Implementation Method 2

a sensing electrode positioned near a nanopore, such that the sensing electrode can detect and record electrochemical characteristics of ions flowing through the nanopore

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrochemical detection: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS20250283162A1Engineered nanopore with a negatively charged polymer threaded through the channel

Publication Date: 2025.09.11 ROCHE SEQUENCING SOLUTIONS INC

AI summary

Nanopores having charged polymers linked thereto are provided. At least one end of the charged polymer is fixed to or near one end of the channel of the nanopore in a position that enables the charged polymer to enter into the channel. The charged polymer may optionally be fixed in the threaded configuration. When the charged polymer is in the threaded configuration, it enhances the conductivity of the nanopore while still permitting other polymers (such as nucleic acids or polymer tags of tagged nucleotides) to flow through the channel of the nanopore.