Discrete Binding Area Sensor for Pathogen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current affinity ligand-binding assays require long incubation times and often necessitate pretreatment steps due to low concentrations of target analytes in complex samples, making it difficult to detect target molecules effectively.
Innovation Solution
A device with discrete analyte binding areas immobilized with specific ligands and a flow channel system that allows for the introduction, binding, washing, and detection of target analytes using a reporter reagent, enabling efficient enrichment and detection of target analytes in complex samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If affinity ligand-binding assays are performed using conventional methods, then target analyte detection can be achieved, but long incubation times are required and pretreatment steps are necessary due to low analyte concentrations in complex samples
Solution Approach 1:
The support surface is divided into multiple discrete analyte binding areas, each containing immobilized ligands. This segmentation increases the local concentration of binding sites and enables parallel processing of multiple analyte samples simultaneously, reducing overall detection time while maintaining detection precision for low-concentration targets
Solution Approach 2:
Ligands are pre-immobilized on the support surface in discrete binding areas before sample introduction. This preliminary preparation of binding sites eliminates the need for pretreatment steps such as concentration or purification, allowing direct detection of low-concentration analytes in complex samples without time-consuming sample preparation
2Measurement precision
If affinity ligand-binding assays are performed using conventional methods, then target analyte detection can be achieved, but pretreatment steps are required to concentrate and purify low-concentration analytes from complex mixtures
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the need for pretreatment steps (concentration and purification) by implementing a novel assay format with discrete binding areas and flow-through architecture. The system directly processes complex samples without requiring separate concentration or cleanup operations, simplifying the overall detection process while maintaining ability to detect low-concentration analytes
Solution Approach 2:
The support structure with discrete binding areas serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides ligand immobilization, enables direct binding of low-concentration analytes, and allows flow-through washing to remove interfering substances. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate pretreatment devices or steps, reducing overall system complexity
3Productivity
If discrete analyte binding areas with immobilized ligands are used, then rapid target analyte binding and detection can be achieved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
A flow channel system is introduced to deliver sample and reagent solutions across the discrete binding areas. This hydraulic flow mechanism enables rapid analyte delivery and washing operations, increasing binding rate and throughput. The flow channel architecture, while adding structural elements, provides automated solution delivery that simplifies operation and enables parallel processing, offsetting the complexity of discrete binding areas
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
This approach allows for rapid and effective detection of target analytes by increasing their concentration and reducing interference, facilitating the detection of low-concentration analytes in complex mixtures without the need for extensive pretreatment.
Implementation Method 1
each of the discrete analyte binding areas comprises an immobilized polymer which comprises a plurality of ligands which specifically bind to a target analyte
Implementation Method 2
applying a magnetic field to the liquid in the flow channel through the support layer to immobilize the magnetic beads on the support layer
Data Source
AI summary
System and methods for detecting analytes such as pathogenic cells are described. The methods allow for the direct measurement of analytes such as pathogenic organisms without the need for sample preparation and/or PCR. The devices can be used individually as point-of-use sensors for airborne pathogens and other pathogenic organisms in foods and agriculture products.