Electrochemical Lateral Flow Test Strip with Integrated Electrode Array
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional lateral flow tests face challenges such as subjective visual readout, limited sensitivity, quantification capabilities, multiplexing potential, miniaturization, integration with electronics, and test-to-test reproducibility, particularly in detecting trace analytes like toxic metals in water or biomarkers in patient samples with limited blood volume.
Innovation Solution
The development of electrochemical lateral flow tests that utilize a nitrocellulose membrane with capturing reagents and label molecules, an electrode array to apply electric potential, and an electronic reader to generate and measure electrochemical signals, enabling sensitive detection and quantification of analytes without visual interpretation, and allowing for multiplexing and improved reproducibility.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If visual readout is used for lateral flow tests, then the test structure remains simple, but measurement precision deteriorates due to subjective interpretation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the optical/visual readout system with an electrochemical detection system. Instead of relying on human eyes to interpret color changes or line visibility, the system uses electrodes to detect electrochemical signals generated by the lateral flow process, thereby eliminating subjective visual interpretation while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an electrochemical intermediary system between the lateral flow test and the readout process. Electrodes serve as mediators that convert the biochemical interactions into measurable electrical signals, enabling objective quantification without requiring direct visual observation of the test line
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional visual lateral flow tests are used, then manufacturing remains simple, but sensitivity deteriorates when detecting trace analytes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical (visual) to electrochemical. By measuring electrical signals such as current, voltage, or impedance changes rather than relying on visual intensity, the system achieves enhanced sensitivity for trace analyte detection while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the optical detection mechanism with electrochemical measurement capabilities, enabling the system to detect trace amounts of analytes through electrochemical signals that can be quantified with high precision, thereby improving sensitivity without complicating the manufacturing process
3Device complexity
If visual readout is used, then the device remains simple, but quantification capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces subjective visual estimation with objective electrochemical measurement. The electrochemical signals provide quantitative data that can be directly measured and analyzed, enabling accurate analyte quantification while keeping the overall device structure simple
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochemical system provides self-quantifying capability where the test strip itself generates measurable signals that directly indicate analyte concentration. This eliminates the need for complex external quantification equipment while maintaining the ability to quantify analytes accurately
4Device complexity
If conventional lateral flow tests are used, then the test structure remains simple, but test-to-test reproducibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces visual readout with electrochemical measurement, providing more consistent and reproducible results. Electrical signals offer better precision and reliability compared to subjective visual interpretation, thereby improving test-to-test reproducibility while maintaining structural simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The electrochemical system provides objective, quantifiable feedback that can be consistently measured across multiple tests. This enables better control and standardization of test results, improving reproducibility through precise electrical signal measurement rather than variable visual assessment
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 enhances the sensitivity and quantification capabilities of lateral flow tests, enabling objective measurement and transmission of results, improving usability and accuracy for detecting various analytes, including trace amounts, and facilitating integration with electronic devices for data analysis.
Implementation Method 1
an electrode array disposed over the nitrocellulose membrane configured to apply an electric potential across the first surface
Implementation Method 2
The configuration ensures an even capillary flow when a liquid sample is applied to the sample pad from the point of deposition, through the nitrocellulose, towards the wicking pad
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to a lateral flow test device for performing a lateral flow test on a liquid sample, comprising: a test strip which comprises: a nitrocellulose membrane having a first capturing reagent disposed on a first surface along a test line, the first capturing reagent being configured to capture a first analyte in the liquid sample; a sample pad disposed at a first end of the nitrocellulose membrane configured to receive the liquid sample; a labelling reagent comprising a plurality of label molecules disposed on the first surface at a position between the sample pad and the test line, the label molecules being configured to bind to the first analyte; and an electrode array disposed over the nitrocellulose membrane configured to apply an electric potential across the first surface.