Automated DNA Extraction via Washing Filter Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current DNA extraction methods require human intervention and are not fully automated, leading to inefficiencies and potential contamination risks, as DNA must be handled externally during the purification process.
Innovation Solution
An automated method where DNA is extracted and purified within a sample vessel using a DNA-adsorbing substance and a washing filter element, allowing for the retention of DNA while allowing the removal of cell debris, using a plunger system for fluid supply and removal, ensuring all steps are conducted without DNA leaving the vessel, thus minimizing human intervention and enhancing purity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If DNA is extracted using magnetic beads and manual handling, then DNA purification can be achieved, but human intervention is required and contamination risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service automation where the washing filter element automatically retains DNA while allowing washing fluid to pass through, eliminating the need for manual DNA transfer and magnetic bead handling. The DNA remains bound to the filter element throughout the washing process, allowing automated fluid supply and removal without human intervention.
Solution Approach 2:
The washing filter element acts as an intermediary carrier that binds DNA and enables automated processing. Instead of directly handling free DNA or magnetic beads, the system uses the filter element as a mediator that can be selectively permeable to washing fluid while retaining DNA, thus automating the purification process.
2Productivity
If DNA is manually handled during extraction, then purification steps can be performed, but contamination risks and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system maintains continuous useful action by keeping DNA bound to the washing filter element throughout the entire washing process. Washing fluid is continuously supplied and removed without requiring DNA to be transferred or handled, eliminating idle time and maintaining constant productive action throughout the purification process.
3Ease of operation
If a single connection is used for washing fluid supply and removal, then automation is simplified, but fluid control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The washing filter element serves multiple functions through a single connection: it acts as both the DNA retention medium and the fluid pathway. The same element that binds DNA also allows washing fluid to pass through via selective permeability, eliminating the need for separate fluid control mechanisms and simplifying the overall system architecture.
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 method enables fully automated, efficient, and cost-effective DNA extraction and purification, maintaining high purity by keeping DNA within the sample vessel throughout the process, allowing for high throughput and reduced contamination risks.
Implementation Method 1
a DNA-adsorbing substance is then added to the sample vessel... the washing filter element retains DNA due to the DNA-adsorbing substance
Implementation Method 2
The magnetic properties of the beads enable the DNA to be magnetically fixed
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a method for extracting DNA, comprising the steps of: providing (400) a lysate (11) in a sample vessel (1), feeding (500) an DNA absorbing substance (15) to the sample vessel (1), closing (700) the sample vessel (1) by means of a wash filter element (3), feeding (600) a wash fluid (12) to the sample vessel (1) through the wash filter element (3), and discharging (700) the wash fluid (12) from the sample vessel (1) through the wash filter element (3). The DNA absorbing substance can be retained from the wash filter element (3).