Closed-Loop Electrode Array for Precise Local pH Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biosensors face challenges in achieving precise and reliable pH control, particularly in multiplexed assays, due to limitations in sensitivity and cross-reactivity, which affect the accuracy and reproducibility of biomolecular detection, and existing methods for pH modulation in biological solutions are inefficient and prone to dilution.
Innovation Solution
A closed-loop system with a high-density array of individually addressable electrodes, comprising working, counter, and reference electrodes, allows for precise pH control through electrochemical modulation, using pH sensing elements to feedback and adjust electrical output parameters, enabling faster and more accurate pH management near electrode surfaces.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional pH control methods are used in biosensors, then pH modulation is achieved, but dilution occurs and control precision deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the pH control system into multiple individually addressable electrodes arranged in a high-density array, allowing localized pH modulation at specific sensor sites without affecting the entire solution volume. This segmentation enables precise pH control at each electrode-solution interface while minimizing bulk solution dilution.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention implements local pH control by applying electrical parameters to individual electrodes, creating localized pH gradients only where needed for biomolecular interactions. This local quality approach ensures that pH modulation occurs precisely at the electrode surface and immediate vicinity, avoiding widespread dilution of the biological buffer solution.
2Reliability
If conventional pH modulation methods are used, then pH control is achieved, but accuracy and reliability of biomolecular detection deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates pH sensing elements that provide real-time feedback on the pH conditions near electrode surfaces. This feedback mechanism allows the system to monitor and adjust electrical output parameters dynamically, ensuring accurate and reproducible pH control for biomolecular detection across multiple measurements and sensor sites.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention controls pH accuracy by systematically adjusting electrical parameters (voltage, current, pulse duration) applied to individual electrodes. By optimizing these parameters, the system achieves precise and reproducible pH modulation, improving the reliability of biomolecular interaction detection while maintaining solution integrity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiplexed biosensor assays are implemented, then detection capability is improved, but cross-reactivity and sensitivity challenges worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a high-density array of individually addressable electrodes, creating multiple independent sensor sites that can simultaneously perform different biomolecular detection assays. Each electrode can be independently controlled and optimized for specific analytes, reducing cross-reactivity while maintaining high detection capability across multiple targets.
Solution Approach 2:
By providing localized pH control at each electrode site, the system creates optimal local conditions for specific biomolecular interactions. This local quality enhancement allows each sensor site to maintain high sensitivity and specificity for its target analyte, even within a multiplexed array, by preventing pH-induced cross-reactivity between different detection sites.
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 accuracy and reliability of biomolecular interactions by allowing precise control of pH gradients in a multisite array format, minimizing dilution and improving the sensitivity and specificity of biomolecular assays.
Implementation Method 1
electrochemical reactions, in particular redox reactions, in a solution to modulate the pH of the solution using electric current
Implementation Method 2
pH sensing elements to feedback and adjust electrical output parameters
Data Source
AI summary
Device and methods for controlling pH or ionic gradient comprising a multisite array of feedback electrode sets comprising electrodes and pH sensing elements. The electrodes can include a reference electrode, counter electrode, and a working electrode. The device and methods iteratively select an amount of current and/or voltage to be applied to each working electrode, apply the selected amount of current and/or voltage to each working electrode to change pH of a solution close to the working electrode, and measure the signal output of the sensing element. The multisite array can include feedback and non-feedback electrode sets.