DMF-LSPR Cartridge for Plasmon Resonance Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional surface plasmon resonance (SPR) systems face limitations in sensitivity and throughput for detecting low concentrations of analytes, requiring large sample volumes and complex microfluidics, and are not suitable for continuous fluid flow analysis.
Innovation Solution
A cartridge with a digital microfluidics (DMF) portion for precise fluid handling and an analog portion with a plasmon resonance (PR) sensor for continuous fluid flow, enabling efficient sample preparation and analysis, including binding kinetics measurement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional SPR uses two separate detection channels (functionalized sensor and reference sensor) for sample measurement, then reference measurement can be obtained for analyte analysis, but large sample volume is required to supply both channels
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the reference sensor and functionalized sensor into a single integrated sensor chip with multiple sensing zones. The reference zone and analyte-binding zone share the same fluidic pathway, allowing both reference and sample measurements to be performed simultaneously with the same sample volume, eliminating the need for separate channels and reducing total sample consumption.
2Measurement precision
If traditional fluorescence detection methods are used for protein or DNA array analysis, then analyte detection can be performed, but the process is time-consuming and requires large sample concentrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical/chemical fluorescence labeling and washing process with an optical plasmon resonance detection system. The SPR sensor detects analyte binding events in real-time through optical signal changes without requiring fluorescent labels or extensive washing steps, dramatically reducing analysis time and sample consumption while maintaining detection sensitivity.
3Manufacturing precision
If digital microfluidics (DMF) is used for fluid operations, then precise control over fluid handling is achieved, but continuous fluid flow is not provided which limits binding kinetics analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two distinct modules: a digital microfluidics portion for precise fluid handling operations and an analog SPR sensing portion for continuous flow detection. The DMF module prepares and delivers fluid samples with precise control, while the SPR module receives continuous fluid flow for real-time binding kinetics analysis, allowing both discrete control and continuous monitoring capabilities to coexist.
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 DMF-PR cartridge system allows for precise control over fluid operations, reducing sample volume requirements and enhancing analysis speed and sensitivity, enabling real-time measurement of binding events and affinity determination with improved accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
surface plasmon resonance (SPR)... plasmon resonance (PR) sensor... localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) system
Data Source
AI summary
A plasmon resonance system, instrument, cartridge, and methods for analysis of analytes is disclosed. A PR system is provided that may include a DMF-LSPR cartridge that may support both digital microfluidic (DMF) capability and localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) capability for analysis of analytes. In some examples, the DMF portion of the DMF-LSPR cartridge may include an electrode arrangement for performing droplet operations, whereas the LSPR portion of the DMF-LSPR cartridge may include an LSPR sensor. In other examples, the LSPR portion of the DMF-LSPR cartridge may include an in-line reference channel, wherein the in-line reference channel may be a fluid channel including at least one functionalized LSPR sensor (or sample spot) and at least one non-functionalized LSPR sensor (or reference spot). Additionally, methods of using the PR system for analysis of analytes are provided.