Flexible Substrates for Scalable Nucleic Acid Synthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for scalable, automated, highly accurate, and highly efficient systems for generating biomolecules for information storage, particularly in biomolecule-based information storage systems like DNA-based systems.
Innovation Solution
The method involves converting digital information into a nucleic acid sequence, synthesizing a large number of oligonucleic acids with predetermined sequences that encode the nucleic acid sequence, and storing these oligonucleic acids on a flexible structure with a surface, such as a reel-to-reel tape made of thermoplastic materials like polyaryletherketone.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If traditional rigid substrates are used for oligonucleic acid synthesis, then manufacturing precision can be maintained, but device complexity and scalability are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs flexible substrates in the form of thin film tapes made from thermoplastic materials that can be continuously fed through synthesis and processing equipment. This flexible tape substrate enables scalable oligonucleic acid synthesis by allowing the substrate to be wound and unwound through automated processing systems, thereby improving scalability while managing device complexity through continuous processing architecture
2Productivity
If flexible substrates are used for oligonucleic acid synthesis, then scalability and ease of operation are improved, but manufacturing precision may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical positioning systems with chemical and automated control mechanisms. The flexible substrate is moved through automated processing equipment where precise control of reagent delivery, temperature, and exposure time ensures accurate oligonucleic acid synthesis. The flexibility of the substrate is compensated by automated positioning and control systems that maintain manufacturing precision throughout the synthesis process
3Productivity
If large numbers of oligonucleic acids are synthesized simultaneously, then productivity increases, but loss of information and accuracy decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the synthesis process into discrete, controlled steps performed on the flexible substrate in a sequential manner. Each step (coupling, capping, deprotection, oxidation) is precisely controlled and performed on specific regions of the substrate, allowing large numbers of oligonucleic acids to be synthesized simultaneously while maintaining accuracy through systematic process segmentation and control
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 enables the efficient storage of large amounts of information in a compact format with high accuracy and scalability, utilizing the stability and high storage capacity of biomolecules like DNA.
Implementation Method 1
the bath or emissions from a spray bar expose the surface of the structure to an oxidizing reagent or a deblocking reagent
Data Source
AI summary
Provided herein are compositions, devices, systems and methods for the generation and use of biomolecule-based information for storage. Further described herein are highly efficient methods for long term data storage with 100% accuracy in the retention of information. Additionally, devices described herein for de novo synthesis of oligonucleic acids encoding information related to the original source information may have a flexible material for oligonucleic acids extension.