Magnetic Conduit Analyte Detection with Localized Field Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
There is a need for a rapid, commercially viable, fluidics-based device capable of multiplexed analyte detection using magnetic nanosensors to effectively detect biological analytes at low concentrations.
Innovation Solution
A device featuring a conduit system with adjustable magnetic fields along its length, allowing magnetic particles with binding moieties to be held or released at specific points, enabling the binding and detection of multiple analytes without significant magnetic field overlap, and incorporating magnetizable foam inserts for enhanced analyte interaction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple magnets are disposed along the conduit for multiplexed analyte detection, then the detection capability for multiple analytes is improved, but the magnetic field overlap inside the conduit increases causing interference
Solution Approach 1:
Each magnet is assigned a specific spatial zone along the conduit where it exerts its magnetic field. The magnets are positioned and configured to create localized magnetic field regions that do not significantly overlap with adjacent magnets, allowing each magnet to independently control magnetic particles in its designated zone for detecting a specific analyte.
Solution Approach 2:
The conduit is divided into multiple distinct segments or zones, with each segment associated with a specific magnet. This segmentation allows independent control and detection of different analytes at different locations along the conduit, enabling multiplexed detection while preventing magnetic field interference between channels.
2Measurement precision
If magnetic particles are held in a particular volume in the conduit for analyte binding, then the detection precision is improved, but the device complexity increases due to adjustable magnetic fields
Solution Approach 1:
The magnets are configured to automatically create the necessary magnetic field gradients to hold magnetic particles in designated volumes without requiring external control mechanisms. The magnetic particles self-assemble and are retained in specific regions through the inherent magnetic field properties of the magnets, eliminating the need for complex adjustable field systems.
3Productivity
If the magnetic field gradient is increased to hold magnetic particles effectively, then the analyte binding efficiency is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic field parameters are optimized to achieve the minimum necessary gradient strength for effective magnetic particle retention and analyte binding. The magnets are positioned and configured to create efficient field distributions that maximize binding efficiency while minimizing excess energy consumption from overly strong magnetic fields.
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 efficient and multiplexed detection of analytes, including pathogens and therapeutic agents, at low concentrations, facilitating rapid diagnosis and dosage determination in biological samples.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of magnets disposed downstream of the conduit inlet along at least a portion of the length of the conduit, each magnet creating a bias magnetic field
Implementation Method 2
each magnet is capable of being adjusted to create a magnetic field gradient inside the conduit of sufficient strength to hold magnetic particles
Implementation Method 3
Upon target binding, these sensors cause changes in the spin-spin relaxation times of neighboring water molecules (or any solvent molecule with free hydrogens) of a sample, which can be detected by magnetic resonance techniques
Implementation Method 4
detected by magnetic resonance techniques
Implementation Method 5
magnetic sensors are superparamagnetic particles that bind or otherwise link to their intended molecular target to form clusters (aggregates)
Data Source
AI summary
This invention features devices and methods for analyte processing and detection, and use of such methods, e.g., in the treatment and diagnosis of disease or determining the presence of a pathogen.