Flow Assay Aggregation Quantification for Low Concentration Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current flow-assaying methods for biochemical compounds in biological fluids face limitations in sensitivity, accuracy, and cost due to requirements for precise particle size control, high particle concentrations, and the inability to effectively quantify objects of interest at low concentrations, especially in the presence of thermal fluctuations and background noise.
Innovation Solution
A method that quantifies objects of interest by measuring the degree of aggregation (DA) formed between functionalized particles and the object of interest, using a three-step process involving initial singlet counting, aggregation reaction, and subsequent counting of aggregates and singlets, allowing for accurate linkage measurement and overcoming limitations of prior art by accounting for all aggregate sizes and reducing nonspecific aggregates.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional flow-assaying methods use high particle concentrations to allow formation of linkages within reasonable time, then reaction speed is improved, but background noise increases and sensitivity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-functionalizing particles with receptors before introducing them to the object of interest. This preparation ensures that particles are ready to bind immediately upon contact, accelerating the reaction without requiring high particle concentrations. The functionalization step is performed in advance, allowing the actual assay to proceed rapidly with minimal background noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs local quality by functionalizing only the surface of particles with specific receptors, while maintaining the bulk particle properties unchanged. This localized functionalization allows particles to exhibit high specific binding activity at their surface while maintaining optimal physical properties for flow detection, thereby improving sensitivity without sacrificing reaction speed.
2Measurement precision
If precise particle size control is implemented to improve flow detection accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by shifting the critical control parameter from particle size to particle surface functionalization characteristics. Instead of requiring tight control over particle diameter and size distribution, the invention focuses on controlling the density and type of receptors on the particle surface. This parameter substitution maintains measurement precision while dramatically simplifying manufacturing processes and reducing costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses copying by creating particles with standardized surface functionalization patterns that can be replicated across batches. Rather than manufacturing each particle with precise size specifications, the invention copies the surface receptor configuration across a population of particles with broader size tolerances, maintaining assay accuracy while easing manufacturing constraints.
3Quantity of substance
If objects of interest are present at low concentrations, then sample representativity is improved, but detection capability deteriorates due to thermal fluctuations and background noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces functionalized particles as intermediaries between the object of interest and the detection system. These particles act as signal amplifiers by binding multiple objects of interest or forming visible aggregates, thereby converting low-concentration targets into detectable signals. This intermediary approach enables reliable detection of trace concentrations despite thermal fluctuations and background noise.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by combining particles with surface-functionalized receptors to create a hybrid detection system. The composite structure integrates the target recognition capability of receptors with the detection-friendly physical properties of particles, enhancing sensitivity for low-concentration samples while maintaining reliability in the presence of thermal noise.
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 method enhances sensitivity and accuracy by standardizing measurements relative to the initial state, improving detection limits, and allowing the use of particles with size dispersion, such as superparamagnetic particles, thereby reducing costs and increasing the choice of reaction particles.
Implementation Method 1
surface-functionalized with at least one functionalizing molecule, moreover referred to in the text as receptor, specific for said object of interest
Implementation Method 2
The presence of aggregates within said medium increases the light scattering, such that the intensity of a light beam passing through said medium is decreased
Implementation Method 3
because of Brownian motion, this same antigen attached to a first functionalized particle can capture a second particle
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a flow assay method in a liquid medium for an object (or element) of interest via the formation of aggregates of particles that are surface-functionalized by at least one functionalizing molecule, or receptor, specific for said object of interest.