Linear Fluidic Cell Trap with Reactance Sensing for Single-Cell Throughput
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods have not effectively addressed the need for high throughput and accurate measurement of transcript levels in single bacterial or virus particle identification, food or produce contamination and for individual health monitoring, respectively.
Innovation Solution
A linear fluidic cell trap device with a tubular element and an array of sensors connected to sensing circuitry for measuring reactance to detect biological cells, using neural network models for identification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If single cell detection is performed using conventional instrumentation, then measurement accuracy is achieved, but throughput is low and reagent costs are high
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the detection process by dividing the sample flow into multiple parallel sensing zones, each equipped with sensors that independently detect cells. This segmentation allows simultaneous measurement of multiple cells, thereby increasing throughput while maintaining measurement accuracy through individual cell analysis in each zone
Solution Approach 2:
The invention transitions from conventional two-dimensional detection to three-dimensional detection by arranging sensors in a three-dimensional array within the fluidic chamber. This spatial arrangement enables simultaneous detection of cells at multiple positions and depths, significantly increasing throughput without compromising measurement precision
2Productivity
If conventional instrumentation is used for single cell analysis, then measurement capability is achieved, but device complexity and cost are high
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs universal sensors that can detect multiple cell properties (such as impedance, capacitance, and optical characteristics) simultaneously. This multi-functionality allows a single sensor array to perform various detection tasks, reducing device complexity while maintaining comprehensive detection capability
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces complex mechanical manipulation systems with a streamlined fluidic flow system combined with electronic sensing. Cells are passively transported through the sensing zone by fluid flow rather than requiring mechanical manipulation, significantly simplifying the device structure while preserving detection functionality
3Ease of operation
If large cell populations are studied instead of single cells, then simplicity of instrumentation is maintained, but fundamental biological questions cannot be addressed
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables single cells to 'self-present' for detection by utilizing their natural dielectric properties and interaction with the sensing field. Cells passively traverse the sensing zone and are automatically detected based on their intrinsic electrical characteristics, eliminating the need for complex sample preparation or labeling while maintaining biological authenticity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention detects cells by measuring changes in electrical parameters (impedance, capacitance, reactance) as cells pass through the sensing zone. This parameter-based detection method maintains instrumentation simplicity while providing reliable single-cell level biological insights, as the measurement approach directly reflects cellular properties without requiring population averaging
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 high-throughput, cost-effective detection and identification of single biological cells with increased measurement accuracy and reduced reagent costs.
Implementation Method 1
sensing circuitry electrically connected with each of the sensors and configured to measure a reactance of each of the sensors and to determine whether any reactance is indicative of a presence of a biological cell in the fluid flowing through the corresponding sensors
Data Source
AI summary
A sensing structure is provided and includes a tubular element through which a fluid is flowable along a single path, an array of sensors disposed along a length of the tubular element whereby the fluid is flowable through each of the sensors and sensing circuitry electrically connected with each of the sensors and configured to measure a reactance of each of the sensors and to determine whether any reactance is indicative of a presence of a biological cell in the fluid flowing through the corresponding sensors.