Functionalized Microrockets for Biomolecule Capture
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for separating and isolating biomolecules in microfluidic devices are expensive and involve complex processes, limiting their effectiveness in point-of-care diagnostics and other clinical applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of functionalized micro- and nano-scale structures, such as microrockets and nanomotors, that can autonomously move and selectively capture and transport targeted biomolecules using catalytic propulsion and functionalized surfaces, allowing for efficient isolation and transport in complex biological fluids.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If microfluidic devices are used to separate and isolate biomolecules, then separation capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the separation function from complex microfluidic devices and concentrates it into simple magnetic beads coated with specific ligands. These beads can be directly added to samples to capture target molecules, eliminating the need for complex microfluidic channels, pumps, and valves while maintaining separation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs disposable magnetic beads as single-use separation agents. Each bead is functionalized with specific ligands for capturing target biomolecules, and after use, the beads are discarded along with captured molecules. This approach eliminates the need for expensive, complex microfluidic devices while achieving effective separation.
2Manufacturing precision
If microfluidic devices with valves and pumps are used, then fluid metering precision is improved, but process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic beads perform separation functions autonomously when introduced to the sample. By applying a magnetic field, the beads automatically migrate to the collection point, bringing captured molecules with them. This self-service mechanism eliminates the need for external pumps, valves, and complex fluid control systems.
3Measurement precision
If conventional separation methods are used, then isolation capability is improved, but sample volume requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent functionalizes the surface of magnetic beads with specific ligands that have high affinity for target molecules. This localized functionalization creates highly specific binding sites on the bead surface, enabling efficient capture of target molecules from small sample volumes without requiring large-scale processing.
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
These structures enable high-speed, efficient, and cost-effective capture and transport of biomolecules, reducing non-specific binding and requiring minimal sample volume, suitable for various biomedical applications including cancer diagnostics and biothreat detection.
Implementation Method 1
an inner layer having a catalyst material that is reactive with a fuel fluid to produce bubbles exiting the tube from the first large opening to propel the tube to move in the fuel fluid
Implementation Method 2
a molecular layer functionalized onto the external layer of the tube and structured to attach to a targeted molecule in the fuel fluid
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques, systems, devices and materials are disclosed for capturing, isolating and transporting target biomolecules and living organisms. In one aspect, a device includes a tube structured to include a large opening and a small opening that are on opposite ends of the tube, and a tube body connecting the openings and having a cross section spatially reducing in size from the large opening to the small opening, in which the tube includes a layered wall including an inner layer having a catalyst material that is reactive with a fuel fluid to produce bubbles exiting the tube from the large opening to propel the tube to move in the fuel fluid and an external layer formed of a material capable of being functionalized, and a molecular layer functionalized onto the external layer of the tube and structured to attach to a targeted molecule in the fuel fluid.