Fluorophore Urine Labeling for Tamper-Proof Sample Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current urine testing methods for substance use are vulnerable to tampering, and there is a need for a method to ensure that a urine sample originates from the subject being tested, while maintaining patient dignity and reducing costs.
Innovation Solution
Administering one or more fluorophores to a subject prior to urination, obtaining a urine sample, and detecting the presence of the fluorophores in the sample to verify its origin.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If direct observation of urine collection is implemented, then sample substitution is prevented, but patient dignity is compromised and operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fluorophore is administered to the subject before urine collection, allowing the substance to be incorporated into the urine sample naturally. This preliminary action enables subsequent detection without requiring direct observation of the collection process, thus maintaining sample authenticity while preserving patient dignity and operational simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The fluorophore acts as an intermediary marker that connects the subject to the urine sample. By detecting the presence of this intermediary substance in the sample, the system verifies sample authenticity without requiring direct observation, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliability and ease of operation
2Reliability
If fluorophore administration and detection is implemented, then sample substitution is detected, but additional testing steps are added
Solution Approach 1:
The fluorophore produces a detectable optical signal (fluorescence) when exposed to appropriate wavelengths of light. This color/brightness change provides a simple, visual, and rapid method for verifying sample authenticity that does not require complex analytical equipment or procedures, thus adding minimal complexity to the testing protocol
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 provides a reliable and non-invasive way to authenticate urine samples, reducing the risk of tampering and ensuring the integrity of substance use testing, while also potentially decreasing costs and enhancing patient dignity.
Implementation Method 1
the one or more fluorophores is excreted unchanged in the urine sample or metabolized into one or more second compounds that is one or more second fluorophores and is excreted in the urine sample
Implementation Method 2
administering one or more fluorophores to the subject at a time prior to miction
Data Source
AI summary
A method for labeling urine in a subject using fluorophores is provided that allows for determining if a urine sample originates from the subject that accepted the administered fluorophore. The method comprises detection of the fluorophore in the urine sample with optical means. One suitable fluorophore is fluorescein sodium. The method may be suitable for ensuring that urine samples for drug, illicit substance or other substance tests are genuine.