Liposome-Coated In-Vivo Capsule for Antigen Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in-vivo analysis methods lack efficient and early detection capabilities for abnormal conditions in the body, such as cancer, due to limitations in imaging and diagnostic technologies for body lumens like the GI tract.
Innovation Solution
Development of an in-vivo imaging device coated with liposomes or nano-containers containing markers that react to specific antigens, allowing for autonomous imaging and detection of abnormal conditions by modifying optical properties, which can be transmitted externally for analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional imaging methods are used for in-vivo analysis, then the imaging device can capture general images of body lumens, but early detection of abnormal conditions such as cancer is not achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies color changes by using pH-sensitive indicators that change color in response to pH variations in the body lumen. The indicator transitions from a first color at pH above 4.0 to a second color at pH below 4.0, enabling visual detection of abnormal conditions such as bleeding or inflammation in the GI tract
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by utilizing the pH-sensitive property of the indicator substance. The indicator's optical properties change in response to pH variations, allowing the detection device to identify abnormal conditions through measurable parameter changes in the body environment
2Measurement precision
If liposomes or nano-containers with markers are used to detect specific antigens, then early detection of abnormal conditions is enabled, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies nested doll by incorporating markers within liposomes or nano-containers that are themselves coated on the detection device. The markers are nested inside the liposomal structure, which provides both protection and targeted delivery to specific antigens in the body lumen
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses intermediaries by introducing liposomes or nano-containers as mediator structures between the detection device and the target antigens. These intermediaries carry markers that specifically bind to antigens, enabling indirect but highly specific detection of abnormal conditions
3Productivity
If autonomous in-vivo imaging devices are deployed, then continuous monitoring and early detection are possible, but the loss of time for data transmission and external analysis increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by having the autonomous device continuously capture and store image data during its passage through the body lumen before external analysis is performed. The device prepares and holds the data in readiness, so that when the data is transmitted externally, the analysis can begin immediately without additional delays
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
Enables early and accurate detection of abnormal conditions by acquiring images of the modified markers, indicating the presence of specific antigens, thereby aiding in diagnosing and treating pathologies like cancer.
Implementation Method 1
The liposomes or nano-containers may react to a certain antigen in-vivo; following the reaction of the liposomes or nano-containers with the antigen, the signaling material may become visible, may become detectible, and/or may modify its optical property
Implementation Method 2
The in-vivo imaging device may acquire images including the signaling material, thereby indicating the in-vivo presence of the antigen that reacts with the liposomes or nano-containers used
Data Source
AI summary
An in-vivo imaging device, typically an autonomous capsule, having a housing, the housing comprising a window; an illumination source located within the housing to illuminate a body lumen through the window; an imager to receive light reflected from the body lumen through the window; and a transmitter to transmit image data to a receiving system. The window is coated with liposomes containing a marker such that the imager may acquire images which include the marking.