CMOS Biomarker Detection Chip with Positive and Negative Controls
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies for detecting biomarkers in biological samples are limited by the need for bulky and expensive equipment, such as mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance machines, which are confined to laboratories and hospitals.
Innovation Solution
A CMOS-based chip is used to generate independent detection signals from a reaction zone that receives a biological sample, with the sample being provided to both a test region and positive and negative control regions within the reaction zone. This setup allows for improved detection accuracy by processing the independent detection signals as input parameters for an algorithm to identify the presence of biomarkers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If mass spectrometry or nuclear magnetic resonance techniques are used for biomarker detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs disposable microfluidic cartridges containing pre-loaded reagents and control elements, replacing expensive reusable equipment. Each cartridge is a single-use device that integrates all necessary components for biomarker detection, eliminating the need for costly mass spectrometry or NMR machines while maintaining detection accuracy through standardized reagent formulations and controlled reaction conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a simplified copy of complex laboratory analysis capabilities through microfluidic chip technology. The chip replicates essential biochemical reactions and detection functions in a miniaturized format, copying the analytical power of laboratory equipment into a point-of-care device that can be manufactured at low cost using standard semiconductor fabrication processes.
2Measurement precision
If spectrophotometers with wide spectrum range are used for metabolite quantification, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and power consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of using a spectrophotometer with wide spectrum coverage, the patent employs specific LED light sources with narrow, targeted wavelengths matched to the absorption characteristics of particular metabolites or enzymatic reactions. This localized spectral approach reduces power consumption while maintaining quantification precision for the specific analytes being measured, as each LED is optimized for its specific detection task rather than covering the entire visible spectrum.
3Reliability
If multiple control regions are added to the reaction zone for improved detection accuracy, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates multiple control functions (positive control, negative control, and test regions) into a single microfluidic chip structure. The control regions are embedded within the same chip substrate as the test area, sharing common fluidic channels and detection infrastructure. This merging approach increases reliability through comprehensive controls while minimizing device complexity by consolidating multiple functions into one integrated platform rather than separate devices.
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 use of a CMOS-based chip with sample-specific control regions enhances the accuracy and reliability of biomarker detection and quantification, making it possible for point-of-care diagnostics without the need for expensive equipment.
Implementation Method 1
a CMOS-based sensor unit configured to: independently detect a property of each of the test region, the positive control region, and the negative control region, and output a respective detection signal
Data Source
AI summary
A biomarker detection apparatus in which a CMOS-based chip is used to generate independent detection signals from a reaction zone that receives a biological sample, where the biological sample is provided to both a test region and positive and negative control regions within the reaction zone. The independent detection signals can be processed together (i.e. as a group of input parameters for an algorithm) to identify the presence of a biomarker (or a plurality of biomarkers) in a biological sample. The use of sample-specific, independently detectable positive and negative controls facilitates improved detection accuracy.