Matrix Biomolecule Filter with Micro-Hole Window Cells
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing technologies for separating biomolecules, such as exosomes, from body fluids are inefficient, often damaging the biomolecules and requiring costly equipment and lengthy processes. Additionally, existing porous membranes are not durable and can be easily blocked by non-biomolecule substances, leading to reduced filtering efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A membrane structure with a matrix shape, featuring a filtering part with window cells arranged in a matrix pattern and a support part for durability. The window cells have micro-holes that allow biomolecules of a predetermined size or less to pass through, preventing damage and blockage by other substances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If a simple film type porous membrane is used for biomolecule separation, then the filtering process is simple, but the membrane has poor durability and is difficult to handle and install
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane structure is divided into a filtering part containing window cells with micro-holes and a support part providing mechanical strength. This segmentation allows the filtering function and structural support to be separated, achieving both easy filtering operation and high durability
Solution Approach 2:
The membrane structure combines a filtering part made of porous material with a support part made of rigid material to create a composite structure. This composite design integrates the advantages of both materials: the porous structure enables filtration while the rigid support provides durability and ease of handling
2Device complexity
If a porous membrane is used in a static state for filtering, then the setup is simple, but the membrane is rapidly blocked by non-biomolecule substances, deteriorating filtering efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The membrane structure enables dynamic filtering by allowing the sample to flow along the window region rather than being filtered in a completely static state. The flow dynamics prevent substance accumulation and blockage while maintaining filtration effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The window cells contain micro-holes with controlled pore sizes that allow selective passage of biomolecules. The porous structure is designed to prevent blockage by non-biomolecule substances while maintaining high filtering efficiency for target biomolecules
3Measurement precision
If antibodies are fixed to microchip for vesicle separation, then specific biomolecules can be separated, but expensive equipment is required and the process takes much time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the complex biochemical antibody-fixation system with a simpler physical filtration system using micro-hole structures. This substitution eliminates the need for expensive equipment and lengthy antibody incubation processes while maintaining separation capability through size-based filtration
4Quantity of substance
If centrifugation is performed as pretreatment for biomolecule separation, then vesicles can be concentrated, but biomolecules may be damaged and the process requires much time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the separation parameter from centrifugal force to size-based filtration. By using micro-holes with specific pore sizes in the window cells, the system achieves biomolecule concentration and separation without the mechanical stress of centrifugation that can damage delicate biomolecules
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
The membrane structure effectively filters biomolecules while preventing damage and improving durability, reducing the time and cost of separation processes and maintaining filtering efficiency by preventing blockage by non-biomolecule substances.
Implementation Method 1
each of the window cells formed in the window region of the filtering part is configured to have micro-holes allowing the biomolecules having a predetermined size or less to pass therethrough
Data Source
AI summary
A membrane structure body having a matrix structure and a biomolecule filter using the same are disclosed. The membrane structure body having a matrix structure, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure, comprises: a filtering part which includes a window region in which a plurality of window cells are formed in a matrix shape and a blocking region in which the window cells are not formed, and which filters biomolecules from a sample moving along the window region; and a support part extending from the filtering part so as to support the filtering part, wherein each of the window cells formed in the window region of the filtering part has have micro-holes allowing the biomolecules having a predetermined size or less to pass therethrough.