Magnetic Air Gap Isolation for DNA Extraction
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for isolating DNA, RNA, and proteins from biological samples are time-consuming and inefficient, often resulting in sample loss and requiring multiple wash steps, while exclusion-based methods using immiscible fluids complicate scaling and introduce friction-based losses.
Innovation Solution
A device and method utilizing a first plate with a hydrophilic region for receiving a sample and a second plate with a hydrophobic region, separated by an air gap, where a magnetic force attracts the target-bound solid phase substrate from the sample through the air gap into a reagent, reducing friction and simplifying the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If exclusion-based methods using immiscible fluids are used to isolate analyte, then isolation speed and specificity are improved, but device complexity and friction-based sample loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the immiscible fluid (oil) from the isolation system, extracting only the essential function of phase separation. Instead of using oil to drag particles, the invention uses a simple hydrophobic surface to achieve the same isolation effect without the harmful friction and complexity of immiscible fluids.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a hydrophobic surface as an intermediary between the aqueous sample and the isolation mechanism. This surface acts as a mediator that enables particle transfer without requiring immiscible fluids, reducing friction-based losses while maintaining isolation effectiveness.
2Manufacturing precision
If multiple wash steps are performed to remove contaminants, then isolation purity is improved, but processing time and sample loss increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the isolation process into distinct functional zones on the substrate: a hydrophilic region for sample binding and a hydrophobic region for contaminant rejection. This spatial segmentation allows purification to occur in a single step rather than requiring multiple sequential wash steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different surface properties to different regions of the substrate: the first region is made hydrophilic to attract and retain the target analyte, while the second region is made hydrophobic to repel contaminants. This local differentiation of surface quality enables selective purification without multiple wash steps.
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 enables efficient and rapid isolation of targeted fractions with reduced sample loss and friction, simplifying the workflow and facilitating larger-scale implementation without the need for immiscible fluids.
Implementation Method 1
A force is provided for attracting the target bound solid phase substrate toward the first surface of the second plate. The target bound solid phase substrate in the portion of the sample are drawn through the air gap and into the reagent by the force.
Data Source
AI summary
A device and a method for isolating a target from a sample are provided. The target is bound to solid phase substrate to form a target bound solid phase substrate. The device includes a first plate having a first region for receiving at least a portion of the sample. A second plate is spaced from the first plate by a distance and has a first region for receiving a reagent. A force attracts the target bound solid phase substrate toward the first region of the second plate such that the target bound solid phase substrate in the portion of the sample are drawn through the air gap and into the reagent by the force.