Multi-Channel Flow Cytometer with Gas-Separated Sample Streams
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional flow cytometry systems are limited in their ability to analyze multiple samples rapidly, making them unsuitable for high-throughput screening applications such as drug discovery and systems biology, and are prone to data corruption due to uncontrolled bubbles in the fluid flow stream.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel flow cytometry apparatus with an autosampler that uses separation gas to separate adjacent samples in a fluid flow stream, allowing for independent analysis of multiple samples through separate conduits connected to multiple flow cytometers, enabling high-throughput screening and reducing data corruption by controlling the introduction of air bubbles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If conventional flow cytometry is used to analyze multiple samples, then individual particle analysis is achieved, but throughput is limited to approximately 1-5 samples per minute
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sample analysis process into multiple parallel channels, each capable of independently analyzing samples. The multi-channel flow cytometer with separate conduits for each sample enables simultaneous analysis of multiple samples, increasing throughput from 1-5 to 80-400 samples per minute while maintaining individual particle analysis capability
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sample handling channels are merged into a single integrated system that processes multiple samples simultaneously through a common fluid delivery system and detection apparatus, achieving high throughput without proportionally increasing overall system complexity
2Measurement precision
If separation gas is introduced between samples in the fluid flow stream, then sample separation and data accuracy are improved, but bubble control complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A separation gas (air or inert gas) is introduced as an intermediary element between adjacent samples in the fluid flow stream. This gas barrier prevents sample mixing and contamination while allowing each sample to be analyzed independently, improving data accuracy. The gas is controlled through regulated introduction points in the fluid delivery system
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates bubble detection and control mechanisms that monitor the fluid flow stream for gas bubble presence. When bubbles are detected, the system adjusts the separation gas introduction timing and quantity to maintain optimal sample separation while preventing bubble-related data corruption, creating a feedback-controlled system
3Productivity
If multiple samples are analyzed in parallel through separate conduits, then throughput increases to 80-400 samples per minute, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The flow cytometer is designed with multi-functional capability to handle multiple samples simultaneously through separate conduits while using a common detection system and data processing apparatus. This universal design enables 80-400 samples per minute throughput without requiring completely separate analysis systems for each sample, thereby limiting the increase in overall system 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 the analysis of multiple samples in a single data file at higher rates than conventional systems, achieving up to 80-400 samples per minute, while minimizing data corruption by effectively managing air bubbles, thus enhancing the throughput and accuracy of high-throughput screening processes.
Implementation Method 1
Adjacent ones of the plurality of samples are separated from each other in the fluid flow stream by a separation gas, thereby forming a gas-separated fluid flow stream
Data Source
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AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention provide a system and method for analyzing a plurality of samples comprising obtaining with an autoampler a plurality of samples from a first plate having a plurality of sample wells wherein the autosampler has a plurality of probes for sampling a set of samples and wherein each probe of the plurality of probes is in communication with a separate flow cytometer via a separate conduit. The plurality of samples comprising particles is moved into a fluid flow stream for each separate conduit. Adjacent ones of the plurality of samples are separated from each other in the fluid flow stream by a separation gas, thereby forming a gas-separated fluid flow stream. The gas-separated fluid flow stream is independently guided to and through each separate flow cytometer.