Integrated Analysis System for Large-Volume Sample Processing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current molecular biology protocols lack efficient systems for automated, integrated sample preparation and analysis of unpurified samples, particularly for generating laboratory-quality data from large volumes of biological and environmental samples, which are often incompatible with existing microfluidic analytical devices.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic apparatus with a valve array and modular components that facilitate biochemical reactions and product isolation, enabling automated sample processing, library construction, amplification, and sequencing, capable of handling large volumes and generating high-throughput sequencing data from as few as 10 cells per sample.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If microfluidic components are used to reduce sample and reagent volumes, then the amount of samples or reagents required is reduced, but biological and environmental samples acquired in large volumes become incompatible with the scale of existing microfluidic analytical devices
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional modules: a preparative module for large-volume sample processing and a microfluidic analytical module for small-volume analysis. This segmentation allows each module to operate at its optimal scale while maintaining overall system functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
An intermediary interface connects the preparative module and analytical module, enabling effective fluidic communication between devices of different scales. This intermediary allows large volume samples to be processed and then transferred to the microfluidic device for analysis.
2Extent of automation
If integrated analysis systems are developed to handle unpurified samples, then automated sample preparation and analysis capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The integrated analysis system is segmented into distinct functional modules (preparative module, analytical module, control system) that can be independently optimized and maintained, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining automation capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is designed with universal interfaces and standardized protocols that allow different modules to work together seamlessly, reducing the complexity of integration while enabling automated end-to-end processing of unpurified samples.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention provides systems, devices, methods, and kits for performing an integrated analysis. The integrated analysis can include sample processing, library construction, amplification, and sequencing. The integrated analysis can be performed within one or more modules that are fluidically connected to each other. The one or more modules can be controlled and/or automated by a computer. The integrated analysis can be performed on a tissue sample, a clinical sample, or an environmental sample. The integrated analysis system can have a compact format and return results within a designated period of time.