Frit-Based Nucleotide Solution Preparation for Sequencing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Sequencing processes are historically expensive, limiting their widespread application in biological and medical research.
Innovation Solution
A method for preparing nucleotide solutions using a cartridge system with containers containing frits, where an aqueous solution flows through to gather nucleotide concentrate, and the solution is collected in a reagent storage container, utilizing a system with a docking station for fluidic connection and continuous flow.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If traditional sequencing methods are used, then sequencing capability is achieved, but cost is high
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the sequencing process into modular components: a cartridge containing multiple containers with different reagents (nucleotide concentrates, enzymes, buffers) that can be independently prepared and stored, then combined with an initial solution in controlled proportions through a fluidic system. This segmentation allows cost reduction by enabling separate preparation of inexpensive reagent concentrates while maintaining sequencing capability through systematic combination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary fluidic system comprising a cartridge, containers, and flow paths that mediates between the initial solution storage and the sequencing reaction. This intermediary system enables automated mixing and delivery of reagents, reducing manual preparation costs while ensuring reliable sequencing through controlled fluid delivery and systematic reagent combination.
2Ease of manufacture
If nucleotide solutions are prepared traditionally, then sequencing reagents are obtained, but preparation complexity is high
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary action by pre-preparing and storing individual reagent concentrates (nucleotide concentrates, enzyme concentrates, buffer solutions) in separate containers within the cartridge before the actual sequencing process. These pre-prepared concentrates are then combined with the initial solution through automated fluidic delivery, simplifying the preparation process while maintaining reagent quality through controlled mixing and delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge system enables self-service by containing all necessary reagent concentrates and delivery mechanisms in an integrated unit that automatically mixes and delivers the correct proportions of reagents when connected to the sequencing instrument. This self-contained system reduces manual preparation complexity while ensuring consistent reagent quality through automated 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 reduces the cost and complexity of preparing nucleotide solutions, making sequencing more accessible and efficient for research purposes.
Implementation Method 1
flowing a volume of an aqueous solution from an initial solution storage of a sequencing instrument through a container of the plurality of containers fluidically coupled to the sequencing instrument, the aqueous solution flowing through the frit to gather nucleotide from the nucleotide concentrate
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
In an example, a method for preparing a nucleotide solution includes flowing an aqueous solution from an initial solution storage of a sequencing instrument continuously through a container fluidically coupled to the sequencing instrument, the container comprising a nucleotide concentrate; and collecting the aqueous solution with nucleotide in a storage container.