Dual-Medium Lateral Flow Detector for Low-Concentration Biomarkers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting biomarkers and targets in biological samples face challenges in achieving high sensitivity and specificity, particularly for low-concentration targets and multiple target detection, which is crucial for medical and biological applications.
Innovation Solution
A detector system comprising a support with distinct portions for binding compounds and a detection method using lateral flow technology, where a labeled complex interacts with specific binding compounds to produce a visual signal for target detection, allowing for simultaneous or sequential use of multiple binding compounds to enhance detection accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single binding compound is used for target detection, then the detection method is simple, but the detection sensitivity and specificity are insufficient for low-concentration targets
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is divided into two distinct support portions: a first support portion configured to bind to the target and host a first binding compound specific to the target, and a second support portion hosting a second binding compound specific to the target. This segmentation allows each binding compound to contribute independently to detection sensitivity without interfering with the other, thereby improving measurement precision while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple binding compounds (first binding compound with label and second binding compound) on the same support system to detect the same target. This merging of multiple detection mechanisms enhances the overall detection sensitivity and specificity for low-concentration targets, as the combined signal from both binding compounds provides more robust detection capability.
2Measurement precision
If multiple binding compounds are used to detect multiple targets, then the detection accuracy improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support system is designed with multi-functionality to host multiple different binding compounds simultaneously. The first support portion and second support portion can each accommodate binding compounds specific to different targets, allowing a single device to perform multiple detection functions. This universality enables accurate detection of multiple targets without requiring separate devices for each target.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the spatial dimension by arranging binding compounds on different support portions (first support portion vs. second support portion). This dimensional separation allows multiple binding compounds to coexist without competition, as each occupies a distinct spatial location on the support structure, thereby enabling multi-target detection with improved accuracy while managing device complexity through spatial organization.
3Reliability
If binding compounds compete for the same target site, then the detection system is simpler, but the detection reliability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by designing the first binding compound and second binding compound to bind to different epitopes or sites on the same target molecule. This localized differentiation ensures that the binding compounds do not compete for the same binding site, thereby improving detection reliability. Each binding compound operates independently at its specific location on the target, eliminating competitive inhibition while maintaining a relatively simple overall system design.
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 system enables efficient and specific detection of biomarkers and targets, providing a quick and reliable method for diagnosing conditions such as sexually transmitted diseases, with the ability to detect multiple targets and low-concentration biomolecules effectively.
Implementation Method 1
combining a sample with a medium that allows binding reactions to occur and applying a labeled complex to one side of a support that allows fluid to be drawn through. The method further comprises bringing the labeled complex across the support by lateral flow
Implementation Method 2
The support comprises a first support portion configured to bind to at least one target and host a respective at least one first binding compound specific to the at least one target
Data Source
AI summary
Detector systems are described, based on a primary binding compound and a secondary binding compound used in combination with a support to detect a target in a sample. The detection systems include a liquid medium hosting a first binding compound specific to a target, the first binding compound comprising a label; and a solid medium hosting a second binding compound specific to the target, the second binding compound being different from and non-competitive with respect to the first binding compound.