Matrix Spot Processing Device for Uniform Analyte Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional dried blood spot (DBS) techniques are time-consuming and error-prone, requiring multiple steps for spotting, drying, punching, transferring, and extracting samples, which can lead to inaccurate analyte measurement due to non-uniform distribution and loss of information during sample handling.
Innovation Solution
A matrix spot processing device that integrates spotting, drying, storing, and extracting biological samples in a single device, eliminating the need for punching and transferring by using a plunger with an absorbent media that allows for direct extraction of the entire dried blood spot with an extraction solvent.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional DBS techniques are used with multiple steps for spotting, drying, punching, transferring, and extracting samples, then the process is thorough and complete, but the process is time-consuming and error-prone
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate operations (spotting, drying, storing, and extracting) into a single integrated device. The collection card with absorbent media is placed directly in the extraction vessel, eliminating the need for separate punching and transferring steps. This merging of functions reduces processing time while maintaining extraction completeness.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection card serves multiple functions: it acts as both the spotting/drying surface and the extraction substrate. The card can be directly inserted into the extraction vessel, making it a multi-functional component that eliminates the need for separate transfer tools and reduces handling steps.
2Reliability
If multiple steps for punching and transferring samples are used, then the entire blood spot can be processed, but errors and information loss occur during sample handling
Solution Approach 1:
The collection card is designed to be directly compatible with the extraction vessel, merging the sampling and extraction interfaces. This eliminates the need for separate punching and transferring operations, reducing handling errors while maintaining complete sample processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection card is designed to be self-contained and self-sufficient for the extraction process. The card's structure allows it to be directly inserted into the extraction vessel without requiring additional tools or intermediate transfer steps, making the operation simpler and more reliable.
3Ease of operation
If a single device integrates spotting, drying, storing, and extracting functions, then the process is simplified and errors are reduced, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The collection card is designed as a multi-functional component that serves as both the spotting/drying surface and the extraction substrate. This universal design allows a single component to perform multiple functions without requiring a complex integrated system, as the card itself is adapted to work directly in the extraction vessel.
Solution Approach 2:
The device is segmented into two main components: the collection card and the extraction vessel. The collection card is designed with specific features (such as a defined insertion position and absorbent media configuration) that enable it to function independently through multiple stages, reducing the need for a highly integrated complex device while maintaining simplicity of operation.
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 simplifies the process, reduces errors, and ensures accurate analyte extraction with improved recovery and matrix effect, as the entire blood spot is processed uniformly, reducing the risk of inaccurate measurements and information loss.
Implementation Method 1
a first end of the plunger is constructed and arranged to hold an absorbent media in place
Implementation Method 2
An analyte of interest can be extracted from the DBS using a solvent such as methanol
Data Source
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AI summary
Described is a matrix spot processing device comprising a tubular apparatus. An absorbent media is located either separate from, or attached to, the tubular apparatus. A sample is spotted on the absorbent media. A reservoir is in the tubular apparatus. A first region of the reservoir is constructed and arranged to have an extraction solvent. A second region of the reservoir, which may or may not be the same as the first region, is constructed and arranged to receive an extract generated from an interaction between the extraction solvent and the spotted sample at the absorbent media.