Isothermal PCR Chip Structure for Rapid Pathogen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current molecular diagnosis methods, particularly those using PCR, are costly, require complex equipment, and are not suitable for field testing due to their size and complexity, limiting their efficiency and accessibility for rapid pathogen detection.
Innovation Solution
A paper chip structure for multiple molecular diagnosis utilizing an isothermal PCR method with a simpler configuration, including a reaction pad, channel pad, and transfer pad, which allows for isothermal amplification and fluorescence-based detection of nucleic acids, enabling simultaneous diagnosis of multiple pathogens with a single sample injection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If thermal cycling PCR method is used, then amplification accuracy is improved, but equipment cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the temperature parameter from variable (thermal cycling) to constant (isothermal at 65°C), eliminating the need for complex temperature gradient equipment while maintaining amplification functionality through parameter optimization
2Productivity
If integrated bioreactor system is implemented, then analysis efficiency is improved, but sample contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into three separate pads (reaction pad, channel pad, transfer pad) that are physically separated but functionally integrated, allowing efficient processing while preventing cross-contamination through spatial segmentation
Solution Approach 2:
The channel pad acts as an intermediary component between the reaction pad and transfer pad, facilitating sample transfer while maintaining physical separation and preventing direct contact between different sample zones
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple diagnosis processes are integrated, then diagnostic capability is improved, but device size increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple diagnostic functions (amplification, separation, detection) are merged into a single integrated chip structure with three pads working in sequence, achieving multi-functionality without proportionally increasing device size
4Loss of time
If isothermal PCR method is used, then amplification time is reduced, but amplification efficiency may decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes specific parameters for isothermal conditions including primer concentration (0.2-1.0 μM), enzyme concentration (0.1-1.0 U/μL), and reaction temperature (60-70°C) to maintain high amplification efficiency while reducing time
Solution Approach 2:
The reaction pad is pre-loaded with all necessary reagents (primers, enzymes, buffers) before sample injection, enabling immediate isothermal amplification upon sample addition and eliminating preparation time
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 solution enables easier, more portable, and cost-effective molecular diagnosis in the field, allowing for rapid and simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens with a single sample injection, overcoming the limitations of existing methods by simplifying the diagnostic process and reducing equipment costs.
Implementation Method 1
a reaction solution that includes an isothermal amplification primer for a specific nucleic acid to be diagnosed, an amplification enzyme
Implementation Method 2
an indicator having fluorescence varying depending on amplification exists in the reaction patterns
Data Source
AI summary
A multiple molecular diagnosis chip structure according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises: a reaction pad; a channel pad; and a transfer pad.