Hybrid Nanopores for Analyte Translocation Control
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current nanopore-based analysis methods lack the ability to control and fine-tune the translocation rate and conformation of analytes, limiting their sensitivity and temporal resolution for precise detection and measurement of chemical or biological entities.
Innovation Solution
The development of hybrid nanopores, where ring-like polypeptides such as SP1 are integrated with synthetic nanopores, creating a continuous channel that slows down analyte translocation and selectively allows a single conformation, enhancing temporal resolution and sensitivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional nanopores are used for analyte detection, then the device structure is simple, but the translocation rate is too fast and temporal resolution is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines biological nanopores (such as alpha-hemolysin) with solid-state nanopores to create hybrid nanopore structures. The biological component provides precise molecular recognition and controlled translocation, while the solid-state component offers structural stability and ease of integration. This merging resolves the contradiction by achieving superior temporal resolution through the biological pore's analyte interaction capabilities without sacrificing device simplicity, as the hybrid structure can be integrated into existing solid-state platforms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite nanopore materials combining organic biological molecules with inorganic solid-state structures. This composite approach enables the system to leverage the fast response and specificity of biological materials while maintaining the robustness and manufacturability of solid-state devices, thereby improving temporal resolution without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Measurement precision
If conventional nanopores are used, then the device is easy to operate, but the sensitivity and specificity of analyte detection are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by functionalizing specific regions of the nanopore structure with biological components that have tailored properties for detecting particular analytes. For example, antibody-coated regions provide high sensitivity for specific proteins, while maintaining other regions with simple geometric features for ease of manufacturing and operation. This localized functionalization achieves high detection sensitivity without requiring the entire device to be complex.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by modifying the chemical, physical, or biological properties of nanopore regions to optimize detection sensitivity for different analytes. This includes changing pore diameter, surface charge, hydrophobicity, or coating specificities in different zones, allowing the device to achieve high sensitivity for target analytes while maintaining overall operational simplicity through standardized fabrication processes.
3Measurement precision
If fast translocation is used, then productivity is high, but measurement precision and temporal resolution deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action through controlled analyte translocation using alternating electric field pulses or rhythmic pressure gradients. This periodic driving mechanism allows analytes to be propelled through the nanopore at optimized intervals, ensuring sufficient residence time within the detection zone for precise measurement while maintaining high overall throughput by rapidly cycling between translocation events.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics by making the translocation process adaptable and controllable in real-time. The system can dynamically adjust translocation speed, pause for measurement, and resume based on detection requirements. This dynamic control enables the system to achieve high measurement precision when needed while maintaining high productivity through rapid processing of multiple analytes in sequence, optimizing the trade-off between these two parameters.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a hybrid structure comprising perforated solid substrate having at least one nanopore perforating therethrough, and devices and uses thereof.