Compressed Conjugate Pad for Rapid Food Pathogen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting food-borne pathogens are limited by low sensitivity and slow detection times, which can lead to delayed identification and increased costs, particularly in cases of food-borne illnesses such as those caused by Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a housing with an antigen detection membrane system that includes a conjugate pad, permeable membrane, and absorbent member, where the conjugate pad is compressed against the inlet opening, facilitating vertical flow and increased sensitivity through the use of antigen-specific antibodies, allowing for rapid detection of food-borne pathogens.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional antigen detection methods are used, then detection can be performed with standard procedures, but sensitivity is low and detection time is slow
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the antigen detection process into distinct functional zones: a conjugate pad for sample preparation, a test membrane with antigen-specific antibodies for detection, and an absorbent member for fluid management. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function, achieving high sensitivity detection within 60 seconds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses antigen-specific antibodies as intermediaries between the target pathogen antigens and the detection system. These antibodies are immobilized on the test membrane and conjugate pad, serving as mediators that specifically bind to pathogen antigens and enable rapid, sensitive detection through vertical flow.
2Productivity
If conventional detection methods are used, then standard procedures can be followed, but detection sensitivity and speed are insufficient for rapid outbreak identification
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary actions by pre-immobilizing antigen-specific antibodies on the test membrane and conjugate pad before sample application. This preliminary preparation ensures that when a sample is applied, the detection reaction can proceed immediately through vertical flow, achieving both rapid detection and high sensitivity without requiring complex real-time adjustments.
3Measurement precision
If compressed conjugate pad design is used, then vertical flow and sensitivity are improved, but device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single integrated membrane assembly: the conjugate pad, test membrane with antigen-specific antibodies, and absorbent member are combined into one vertically-flow device. The compressed conjugate pad design integrates sample application, antibody binding, and fluid transport functions, achieving high sensitivity without requiring separate complex subsystems.
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 device enables rapid and sensitive detection of food-borne pathogens, reducing detection time to less than 60 seconds and improving the ability to identify outbreaks more quickly, thereby enhancing public health responses and reducing economic losses.
Implementation Method 1
facilitating vertical flow and increased sensitivity through the use of antigen-specific antibodies
Implementation Method 2
allowing for rapid detection of food-borne pathogens through the use of antigen-specific antibodies
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods for the detection of antigens are disclosed. Devices and methods for detecting food-borne pathogens are disclosed.