Genetic Sequencing Device with Integrated Fluorescence Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional genetic sequencing techniques are costly and labor-intensive due to extensive sample preparation and require large, expensive systems, leading to increased costs and human error.
Innovation Solution
An integrated device with detectors for nucleotide incorporation signals, a fluidics system, and a computational system that uses optically detectable labels and energy transfer reactions to determine base identity through fluorescence detection, reducing costs and improving efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional genetic sequencing techniques are used, then sequencing can be performed, but costs and labor requirements increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sequencing operations into a single integrated device where billions of DNA strands are sequenced simultaneously on a single substrate. The device integrates fluidics systems, detector arrays, and control systems into one unified platform, eliminating the need for separate preparation and analysis equipment, thereby reducing costs and improving labor efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses optical copying principles where light signals from fluorescently labeled nucleotides are detected and converted into digital sequence data. Multiple copies of the sequencing reaction occur in parallel across billions of DNA strands on the substrate, with each position being optically read and copied into sequence information simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If conventional sequencing systems are used, then sequencing accuracy can be achieved, but system size and expense increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sequencing device is segmented into discrete functional regions on a planar substrate, with each region containing specific sequencing reactions. The substrate is divided into multiple zones that can be independently addressed by the fluidics system and detected by the detector array, allowing complex sequencing tasks to be performed by simpler, distributed components rather than a monolithic complex system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical manipulation systems with optical detection methods. Instead of physically manipulating individual DNA molecules through complex mechanical means, the system uses fluorescent labeling and optical detection to identify nucleotide sequences, significantly simplifying the device while maintaining high accuracy.
3Reliability
If extensive sample preparation is performed, then sequencing quality improves, but human error and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sequencing device performs sample preparation automatically through integrated fluidics systems that deliver reagents and nucleotides to the substrate without manual intervention. The system self-regulates the sequencing reaction conditions, eliminating the need for extensive manual sample preparation and thereby reducing human error while maintaining sequencing quality.
Solution Approach 2:
The device incorporates real-time detection and feedback mechanisms where the optical detection system monitors nucleotide incorporation as it occurs, and the control system adjusts reaction conditions based on detected signals. This closed-loop feedback ensures high sequencing quality while minimizing the need for manual quality control steps that could introduce human error.
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
The system enables scalable, low-cost genetic sequencing with reduced human error, capable of performing billions of simultaneous DNA sequencing runs on a single substrate, enhancing productivity and accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
the nucleotide includes an optically detectable label, and the method can further include providing excitation energy to the integrated device, the excitation energy either exciting a donor particle or molecule that energizes or excites the optically detectable moiety
Implementation Method 2
the excitation energy either exciting a donor particle or molecule that energizes or excites the optically detectable moiety
Data Source
AI summary
A device including a transparent layer defining a surface exposed to a flow volume and to secure a target polynucleotide template and a detector structure secured to the transparent layer and including a plurality of detectors to detect a signal emitted during nucleotide incorporation along the target polynucleotide template.