Epidermal Sample Collection Tape for Non-Invasive Nucleic Acid Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current skin care methodologies lack robustness and sensitivity, making it difficult to determine epidermal properties across a wide population due to invasive sampling methods and the need for professional handling, which limits proper characterization and population-wide determination.
Innovation Solution
Non-invasive methods and reagents are provided for self-sampling of epidermal samples, allowing for the extraction and analysis of nucleic acids to determine epidermal properties using enzymes like TET2, UDP-glucose:DNA beta-D-glucosyltransferase, and APOBEC3A, enabling population-wide determination and therapeutic regimen design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If invasive sampling methods are used to obtain epidermal samples, then sufficient nucleic acid amount can be obtained for analysis, but the sampling becomes painful and requires professional handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses tape as an intermediary tool to collect epidermal samples non-invasively. The tape adheres to the skin surface and collects epidermal cells without penetrating the skin, thereby eliminating pain and the need for professional surgical handling while still obtaining sufficient biological material for nucleic acid extraction and analysis.
2Measurement precision
If professional handling is required for epidermal sampling, then sample quality can be ensured, but population-wide determination becomes difficult due to lack of facilities and professionals
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables self-sampling by providing a simple tape-based collection method that individuals can perform themselves without professional assistance. The collected samples are placed in a buffer solution that stabilizes nucleic acids, allowing individuals to mail samples to laboratories for analysis. This self-service approach eliminates the need for widespread professional sampling facilities while maintaining sample quality through the stabilizing buffer.
3Reliability
If current methodologies are used for epidermal sampling, then some samples can be obtained, but robustness and sensitivity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the chemical parameters of the sampling environment by using a buffer solution with specific pH and composition to stabilize nucleic acids during sample collection and transport. This parameter change ensures that nucleic acids remain intact and undegraded, improving both the robustness of the methodology and the sensitivity of downstream epidermal property determinations by providing high-quality starting material for analysis.
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
Enables self-sampling of epidermal samples without professional assistance, allowing for accurate determination of epidermal properties and facilitating therapeutic regimen design to improve skin health, while overcoming limitations of invasive methods and professional dependency.
Implementation Method 1
processing at least a portion of nucleic acids derived from the epidermal sample of the subject using at least an enzyme which is capable of modifying a base of a nucleotide of the at least the portion of the nucleic acids thereby producing modified nucleic acids
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are methods for determining epidermal properties of a subject. The methods may comprise assaying nucleic acids in an epidermal sample of the subject. The methods also comprise identifying the genome, epigenome, and/or metagenome in the epidermal sample of the subject. Also provided are the compositions and kits for carrying out the same.