Lab-on-a-chip extraction of dried bodily fluid samples
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microfluidic systems lack the capability to efficiently analyze dried blood samples, which are difficult to extract from filter material and require cumbersome and expensive processing steps, making them impractical for timely diagnostics, especially in cases where sample volume is limited.
Innovation Solution
A method for extracting dry stored body fluids using a lab-on-a-chip system, employing techniques such as incubation in an elution solution, pump function, ultrasound, or enzymatic digestion, allowing for automated processing and simplification of sample handling, enabling analysis of smaller sample volumes without the need for refrigeration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If dried blood spots are extracted using conventional methods, then the analytes can be obtained, but the extraction process is time-consuming and requires many disposable parts and process steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple extraction steps and functions into a single integrated microfluidic device. The extraction chamber integrates sample placement, elution solution delivery, and analyte collection in one component, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices and disposable parts while maintaining extraction efficiency
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic extraction device performs multiple functions: it serves as a sample holder, elution chamber, filtration system, and analyte collection vessel. This multi-functional design replaces several conventional extraction steps and disposable components with a single universal device
2Reliability
If whole blood samples are collected and analyzed, then the most complete health picture is obtained, but the samples require refrigeration and expensive equipment for proper handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by drying the blood sample on filter paper at the collection site before analysis. This pre-drying step preserves sample integrity without requiring refrigeration or specialized handling equipment during transport and storage, enabling reliable analysis later using the microfluidic device
3Quantity of substance
If dried blood spots are used to reduce sample volume, then smaller volumes are sufficient for analysis, but the extraction from filter material becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an elution solution as an intermediary substance that facilitates extraction of analytes from the dried blood spots on filter paper. The elution solution penetrates the filter material and efficiently dissolves the dried analytes, making extraction from the filter matrix straightforward despite the small sample volume
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic device employs hydraulic principles to deliver the elution solution through the filter paper containing the dried blood spot. The controlled fluid flow ensures efficient penetration and extraction of analytes from the small sample volume without requiring complex mechanical manipulation
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 method enables efficient extraction and analysis of dry stored body fluids, reducing handling complexity and costs, allowing for more patient-friendly and cost-effective diagnostics, particularly suitable for infants and small animals, and expanding applications to various diagnostic needs.
Implementation Method 1
The dry pre-stored body fluid is extracted from the sample by means of incubation in an elution solution
Implementation Method 2
the dry pre-stored body fluid is extracted from the sample by means of a pump function of an elution solution through the sample over a predetermined time
Implementation Method 3
the dry pre-stored body fluid is extracted from the sample by means of ultrasound
Implementation Method 4
the extraction of the previously stored dry body fluid from the sample takes place by means of enzymatic digestion of the carrier material by enzymes
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to a device (100) for extracting dried, pre-stored bodily fluid in a sample. Said device has a lab-on-a-chip system (10) comprising a receiving region (20), which is provided for receiving a sample (30) containing at least one bodily fluid in a dried, pre-stored form in a carrier material (40), and comprising a discharging region (50) for discharging the extracted bodily fluid from the sample (30). The dried, pre-stored bodily fluid is extracted from the sample (30) in the receiving region (20).