Fast Digital Nucleic Acid Detection Using Coded Supports
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting target nucleic acids in multiple samples are inefficient and lack the ability to simultaneously process and identify multiple samples with high accuracy and speed.
Innovation Solution
A method involving contacting different samples with solid supports having distinguishable characteristics, binding capture molecules to target nucleic acids, combining these mixtures, and introducing them into an array of wells for detection, where the presence or absence of nucleic acids is determined using Poisson distribution statistics or positional tracking, allowing for rapid and accurate identification of sample origins.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple samples are processed sequentially using traditional methods, then detection accuracy can be maintained, but detection speed and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection process into discrete partitions by distributing solid supports into individual wells of an array. Each well acts as an independent reaction chamber, allowing parallel processing of multiple samples while maintaining individual detection accuracy through spatial segmentation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple sample processing steps into a single integrated workflow where solid supports are contacted with multiple samples sequentially, then combined into a bulk mixture and distributed to an array. This merging allows parallel detection of multiple samples simultaneously, dramatically increasing productivity while maintaining accuracy through the structured array format.
2Measurement precision
If solid supports with distinguishable characteristics are used for multiple samples, then sample identification accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses solid supports with different fluorescent colors or emission spectra as distinguishable characteristics. Each color codes a specific sample, enabling visual or instrumental identification of sample origin without complex tracking systems. This simple yet effective coding scheme maintains high identification accuracy while avoiding excessive device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a spatial copy of sample information by distributing coded solid supports to specific well positions in an array. The positional information in the array serves as a copy of the sample identity, allowing identification through position tracking rather than requiring complex real-time monitoring of each sample's physical location.
3Reliability
If a high number of solid supports are used in each sample mixture, then detection reliability is improved, but the complexity of managing and tracking samples increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the tracking burden from the sample management process by separating the identification function into the solid support characteristics and the positional function into the array structure. This extraction simplifies sample management because the system only needs to track which coded solid support ends up in which well position, rather than tracking complex sample histories.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces the solid support as an intermediary carrier that links the sample to its final position in the array. The coded solid support acts as a mediator that preserves sample identity information throughout the processing workflow, from initial contact through distribution to final detection, simplifying the overall management complexity.
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 simultaneous and rapid detection of target nucleic acids across multiple samples with high accuracy, utilizing Poisson distribution or positional tracking to determine sample identities and quantities.
Implementation Method 1
solid supports comprise a plurality of capture molecules that bind to the sample target nucleic acid
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for sample target molecules are provided.