Exosome Extraction Device Multi-Stage Filtration Concentration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for exosome extraction, such as ultra-high-speed centrifugation and filtration, are inefficient for mass production, resulting in low recovery rates and time-consuming processes, limiting the ability to obtain large quantities of exosomes suitable for clinical use.
Innovation Solution
An exosome extraction device and method involving a multi-filter system with specific pore sizes to filter out cells and bacteria, utilizing a circulation path to concentrate exosomes, and a sterilization filtration step to maintain a sterile state, allowing for efficient extraction and recovery of exosomes from cell culture supernatants.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If ultra-high-speed centrifugation is used to separate exosomes, then exosomes can be separated from the liquid, but the recovery rate is low (about 20 to 30%) and only small volumes can be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The filtration process is divided into multiple stages with different filter pore sizes: first filtration (0.22-0.45 μm) to remove cells, second filtration (10-30 nm) to remove exosomes and concentrate the liquid, and third filtration (0.22 μm) to remove bacteria. This segmented approach allows efficient separation and concentration of exosomes while maintaining high recovery rates
Solution Approach 2:
A circulation path is introduced as an intermediary mechanism that repeatedly passes the liquid through the filtration system. The circulation path includes a pump and tubing that continuously circulate the liquid between the reservoir and filtration装置, enabling multiple passes through the filters to maximize exosome concentration while maintaining system efficiency
2Reliability
If multiple filters with different hole diameters are used to filter and concentrate exosomes, then exosomes can be extracted, but the process consumes a lot of time and is not suitable for mass production
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation path enables continuous filtration and concentration by repeatedly passing the liquid through the filters without stopping. The pump maintains continuous flow through the system, allowing the filtration process to operate continuously rather than in batch mode, significantly improving productivity while maintaining extraction purity
Solution Approach 2:
The filtration system is segmented into three distinct filtration stages with different pore sizes, allowing each stage to perform its specific function efficiently. This segmentation enables parallel processing of different filtration tasks simultaneously through the circulation system, reducing total processing time while maintaining purity
3Quantity of substance
If circulation path is used to concentrate exosome-containing liquid through second filter, then exosome concentration increases, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The circulation path serves multiple functions: it transports liquid between reservoir and filters, provides continuous flow for efficient filtration, enables repeated passing through filters for concentration, and facilitates pressure equalization. This multi-functionality reduces the need for additional dedicated components, managing system complexity while achieving high concentration
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 the efficient extraction of a larger quantity of exosomes while maintaining a sterile state, enhancing recovery rates and making the extracted exosomes suitable for clinical use, addressing the limitations of existing methods.
Implementation Method 1
a first filter that is provided between the stock solution supply unit and the first storage unit and has a hole diameter that passes the exosomes and blocks cells
Implementation Method 2
a second filter that blocks the exosomes, and has a pre-filtration chamber into which the exosome-containing liquid flows, and a post-filtration chamber for storing the filtered liquid
Implementation Method 3
a third filter that is provided between the first storage unit and the recovery unit and has a hole diameter that passes the exosomes and blocks bacteria
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid containing exosomes is filtered through a first filter that has a hole diameter that passes the exosomes and blocks cells, and is then stored in a first storage unit (rough filtration step). Next, pressure is applied to the inside of the first storage unit to pump the liquid to a pre-filtration chamber in a second filter that blocks the exosomes so that water in the liquid is filtered out into a post-filtration chamber. The exosome-containing liquid that was not filtered out is returned to the first storage unit, thereby increasing the exosome concentration in the liquid for extraction (concentration step). The exosome-containing concentrate in the first storage unit is then filtered through a third filter having a hole diameter that passes the exosomes and blocks bacteria, and is sent to a recovery unit (sterilization filtration step).