Hybridization Device Mixing Beads Bubble Formation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manufacturing high-density microarrays face challenges in efficiently hybridizing target oligonucleotides with complementary probes, particularly in ensuring effective mixing and reducing bubble formation during the hybridization process, which can affect the accuracy and sensitivity of nucleic acid assays.
Innovation Solution
A method and system utilizing mixing beads to agitate and mix the target solution while hybridizing it with complementary probes on an array, where the beads are either magnetically agitated or contained within a permeable barrier to prevent direct contact with the array surface, enhancing hybridization efficiency and reducing bubble issues.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If mixing beads are agitated to mix the target solution during hybridization, then hybridization efficiency is improved, but bubbles may form and affect assay accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a permeable barrier as an intermediary component that separates the mixing beads from the array surface. This barrier allows small molecules and target oligonucleotides to pass through while containing the mixing beads, enabling effective mixing without direct bead-array contact that would cause bubble formation and assay interference
Solution Approach 2:
The hybridization chamber is segmented into distinct zones: a bead-containing region for mixing and a bead-free region for array placement. This spatial segmentation allows mixing beads to be agitated vigorously for efficient hybridization while maintaining a bubble-free zone where the array remains undisturbed for accurate detection
2Stability of the object's composition
If mixing beads are used to agitate the solution, then mixing thoroughness is improved, but direct contact with the array surface may occur causing damage
Solution Approach 1:
A permeable barrier serves as a protective intermediary between mixing beads and the array surface. This barrier physically separates the two components, allowing the beads to be agitated for thorough mixing while preventing direct contact that would damage the delicate array surface
Solution Approach 2:
The permeable barrier is implemented as a flexible thin film or membrane that allows molecular passage while providing mechanical protection. This thin film structure enables solution mixing through the barrier while protecting the array surface from mechanical damage by the mixing beads
3Productivity
If hybridization time is reduced to increase productivity, then throughput is improved, but hybridization completeness may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The mixing beads are agitated through mechanical vibration or shaking during hybridization. This mechanical agitation enhances the kinetics of target oligonucleotide-probe interactions, ensuring complete hybridization even at reduced time points and thereby maintaining high throughput without sacrificing hybridization completeness
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static hybridization to dynamic mixing by introducing agitated mixing beads. This dynamic approach accelerates hybridization kinetics, allowing shorter incubation times while achieving the same level of hybridization completeness, thus improving overall productivity
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 increases hybridization efficiency, reduces hybridization time, and enhances assay sensitivity by ensuring thorough mixing, while minimizing the impact of bubbles on the array, allowing for lower target concentrations and reduced amplification requirements.
Implementation Method 1
The mixing beads may be magnetic and agitated to mix the target solution. In one embodiment, a magnetic field is applied to agitate the mixing beads in the target solution.
Implementation Method 2
In another embodiment, an optional permeable barrier is provided. The permeable barrier contains the beads in a sub chamber of the container, preventing the mixing beads from directly contacting the array surface.
Data Source
AI summary
A method, device and system for hybridizing a target oligonucleotide to at least one array comprising a plurality of mixing beads are provided. A target solution is mixed by agitating the mixing beads while the target oligonucleotides are hybridizing to the complementary probes on the array. In another embodiment, a permeable barrier contains the mixing beads, thereby preventing them from contacting the array surface.