Gradient Filtration Device for Heterogeneous Biological Sample Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting biological material and information from heterogeneous matrix samples, such as stool or soil, face challenges including false negatives due to inhibitors and non-specific elements, contamination, and inefficient sample handling, leading to inaccurate diagnoses and increased handling time.
Innovation Solution
A device with a calibrated hollow part and mechanical suspension means that allows for precise sampling and suspension of biological material without weighing, reducing contamination and handling errors, and includes a filtration system with gradient filters to isolate biological material effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional detection methods (culture plates, PCR) are used on heterogeneous matrix samples, then detection sensitivity is reduced due to inhibitors and non-specific elements, but using additional purification steps increases device complexity and handling time
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the heterogeneous matrix sample into different fractions using gradient filters with varying pore sizes. The first filter (500 μm) captures large debris, the second filter (20 μm) captures smaller particles, and the third filter (10 μm) captures fine particles. This segmentation allows biological material to pass through while retaining inhibitors and non-specific elements in different fractions, improving detection sensitivity without requiring complex chemical purification steps.
2Measurement precision
If samples are suspended in liquid medium for analysis, then detection accuracy improves, but sample calibration and dosing become difficult due to heterogeneous matrix variability
Solution Approach 1:
The device extracts biological material from the heterogeneous matrix sample through filtration, separating it from the variable matrix components. By retaining the matrix in the filter and allowing only the biological material (and necessary liquid medium) to pass through, the device creates a standardized filtrate that is easier to calibrate and dose accurately, while still maintaining detection accuracy.
3Reliability
If multiple filtration steps are used to remove inhibitors, then detection sensitivity improves, but processing time and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges multiple filtration functions into a single integrated device with gradient filters arranged in series. Instead of requiring separate filtration steps with multiple devices, the gradient filters (500 μm, 20 μm, and 10 μm) are combined in one device, allowing simultaneous removal of different sized particles and inhibitors in a single processing step, thus reducing time while maintaining sensitivity.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual sample handling and transfer are used, then flexibility is maintained, but contamination risks and handling errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device enables self-service operation where the sample is processed automatically through the gradient filtration system without requiring manual transfer between containers. The sample is loaded into the device and the filtration process occurs in-situ, eliminating the need for manual pipetting and transfer steps that increase contamination risk, while still allowing flexibility in sample type acceptance.
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 device simplifies the collection and analysis of biological material from heterogeneous samples, reducing contamination risks, improving detection sensitivity, and enhancing the efficiency and reproducibility of biological analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a mechanical suspension means, such as at least one ball, adapted to facilitate the suspension of said sample in said suspension solution
Implementation Method 2
a filtration system with gradient filters to isolate biological material effectively
Data Source
Figure 1A~1B
Figure 2~3
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device for obtaining biological material and/or biological information from a sample with a heterogeneous matrix, to the uses of said device, to methods implementing said device, and to kits for obtaining biological material and/or biological information from a sample with a heterogeneous matrix, comprising the different constituents of said device.