Integrated Sample Prep and Detection Cartridge
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biological assay methods require separate and complex processes for sample preparation and detection, lacking integrated solutions that simplify these steps while maintaining sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a cartridge with a fluidic channel, waveguide, capture spots, force field generator, and imaging system, where specific binding interactions between target analytes and particles form multiple-particle complexes that are manipulated and detected, enabling integrated sample preparation and detection without extensive wash steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If separate sample preparation and detection processes are used, then each process can be optimized independently, but the overall assay complexity increases and time is lost between steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sample preparation and detection into a single integrated assay platform. Functionalized particles perform both sample preparation (capture, concentration, purification) and detection (signal generation) simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate processes and reducing overall assay complexity while maintaining optimization capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The functionalized particles serve multiple functions: they act as capture agents, concentration tools, purification media, and signal transduction elements all within a single particle system. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate preparation and detection reagents, simplifying the overall assay design.
2Measurement precision
If extensive wash steps are included to remove contaminants, then detection sensitivity improves, but assay time and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes contaminants during the sample preparation phase through selective binding and capture mechanisms, separating them from the target analyte before detection. This preliminary extraction reduces the need for extensive post-detection wash steps, saving time while maintaining sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
Sample preparation actions (capture, concentration, purification) are performed beforehand during the assay setup phase, removing contaminants before the detection step. This preliminary action ensures that detection occurs on a cleaned sample, reducing the need for time-consuming wash steps afterward.
3Measurement precision
If multiple particles are used to form complexes, then detection sensitivity and multiplexing capability enhance, but the complexity of particle manipulation increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses the target analyte itself as an intermediary that naturally bridges and links multiple functionalized particles into complexes. This natural bridging mechanism simplifies particle manipulation compared to artificial assembly methods, as the analyte automatically positions particles for detection without requiring complex external manipulation systems.
4Productivity
If integrated preparation and detection is implemented, then assay time is reduced and complexity lowers, but ensuring sensitivity comparable to separate methods becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The functionalized particles perform self-service by simultaneously executing sample preparation and detection functions without requiring external intervention or separate reagent systems. The particles self-assemble into complexes with the target analyte and generate detection signals, maintaining sensitivity while enabling integrated high-throughput processing.
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 simplifies biological assays by integrating sample preparation and detection, enhancing sensitivity and multiplexing capabilities, and reducing the complexity of assay protocols, as demonstrated through successful nucleic acid, protein, and cellular target detections.
Implementation Method 1
first type particles, which include binding moieties specific for the target analyte and is responsive to a force field
Implementation Method 2
a waveguide, and a capture spot disposed on the waveguide and within the fluidic channel
Implementation Method 3
an imaging system... the signal, generated by the second type particles and captured at the imaging system
Data Source
AI summary
A system for sample preparation and analyte detection includes a cartridge, with a fluidic channel, a waveguide, and a capture spot. The system further includes a force field generator, an imaging system, and a fluid, which includes a sample potentially containing a target analyte, first type particles, which include binding moieties specific for the target analyte and are responsive to a force field, and second type particles, which include binding moieties specific for the target analyte and are capable of generating a signal. When the sample contains the target analyte, specific binding interactions between the target analyte and binding moieties link first and second type particles via the target analyte to form multiple-particle complex capturable at a capture spot. The force field allows manipulation of the particles and multiple-particle complex such that the detected signal from the second type particles is indicative of the target analyte within the sample.