Decoded Bead Array Segmentation for Independent Sample Sections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current random assembly-based detection systems are limited by the physical size and number of sample sections on a substrate due to sample separation gasketing, leading to increased costs and manual handling, and require complex imaging steps for bead identification.
Innovation Solution
The substrate is separated into independent sections and subsections through methods like dicing or etching, maintaining decode library information and bead registration using fiducials, and parsing decode files to enable individual addressing and decoding of each section.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If multiple independent sample sections are included on a single substrate to reduce costs, then substrate cost and reagent volume are reduced, but the physical size and total number of sample sections are limited by sample separation gasketing technology
Solution Approach 1:
The substrate is divided into multiple independent sample sections, each capable of holding and processing samples separately. This segmentation allows multiple samples to be processed on a single substrate while maintaining sample independence through physical separation features.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sample sections are arranged and integrated within a single substrate structure, with each section containing its own wells and features. The sections are nested within the overall substrate framework, maximizing the use of available substrate area while maintaining individual section functionality.
2Reliability
If sample separation gasketing is used to prevent sample comingling, then sample pollution is prevented, but device complexity and manual handling requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sample separation function is extracted from complex gasketing structures and integrated directly into the substrate through simplified physical features such as wells, barriers, and spatial arrangement. This removes the need for separate gasketing components while maintaining effective sample separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate structure itself provides sample separation through its inherent design features, eliminating the need for additional gasketing components. The substrate serves multiple functions including sample containment, separation, and structural support through its integrated design.
3Measurement precision
If decoding is performed on the entire array to identify bead identities, then comprehensive detection is achieved, but sample dilution and signal-to-noise ratio deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The decoding process is applied to individual sample sections or smaller subsets of the array rather than the entire array at once. This segmentation allows samples to be processed in concentrated form within each section, maintaining signal-to-noise ratio while still achieving comprehensive detection across all sections.
Solution Approach 2:
Decoding is performed on representative subsets or panels of beads within each sample section rather than requiring all beads to be decoded simultaneously. This partial action approach maintains sufficient detection accuracy while preserving sample concentration and signal quality in each section.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and compositions for the fabrication and use of arrays are disclosed. Methods of the disclosure include separating decoded arrays, such as bead arrays, into independent sections and subsections. Methods of the disclosure can enable more economical fabrication of arrays suitable for conducting various assays, such as detection of target analytes in a sample.