Integrated Membrane Device for Ambient Biomolecule Preservation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preserving and storing biomolecules, such as proteins and nucleic acids, are limited by the need for low and ultra-low temperature storage, which is costly and impractical, and are prone to contamination from RNases, leading to degradation and cross-contamination issues.
Innovation Solution
An integrated membrane assembly with asymmetric membrane layers and fluid inputs that allows for the separation and preservation of biomolecules at ambient conditions, using a flow-through process to extract and purify proteins and nucleic acids without the need for solvents or additives, minimizing exposure to contaminants and enabling long-term storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If low and ultra-low temperature storage is used to preserve biomolecules, then structural and chemical integrity is maintained, but storage cost and practicality worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the storage temperature parameter from low/ultra-low temperature to ambient temperature by introducing a preservation layer with stabilizing agents (trehalose and/or borax) that chemically stabilize biomolecules at higher temperatures, resolving the contradiction between maintaining integrity and reducing storage cost
Solution Approach 2:
The preservation layer acts as an intermediary between the biomolecules and the ambient environment, using trehalose and/or borax as mediating substances that prevent degradation and RNase contamination while allowing ambient temperature storage, thus resolving the contradiction between biomolecule integrity and storage practicality
2Reliability
If conventional preservation methods are used, then biomolecules can be stored, but exposure to RNases causes contamination and degradation
Solution Approach 1:
The preservation layer with stabilizing agents (trehalose and/or borax) serves as an intermediary barrier that protects biomolecules from RNase contamination while enabling ambient temperature storage, eliminating the need for separate protective measures against RNases
Solution Approach 2:
The device separates the sample into different layers with distinct functions: the preservation layer specifically targets RNase contamination protection, while other layers handle different aspects of sample processing, allowing targeted protection against harmful factors
3Manufacturing precision
If multiple processing steps are used to separate and preserve biomolecules, then purification is improved, but operator error and cross-contamination risk increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple processing functions (separation, preservation, purification) into a single integrated membrane device with multiple layers, each performing a specific function, which reduces the number of separate操作步骤 and minimizes operator error while maintaining high purification quality
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated membrane device performs multiple functions simultaneously: the asymmetric membrane layer separates biomolecules, the preservation layer protects against degradation and RNase contamination, and the structure enables ambient temperature storage, reducing the need for multiple separate processing 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
The integrated membrane assembly effectively preserves biomolecules, reducing degradation and cross-contamination, enabling rapid and cost-effective processing and storage of samples at ambient temperatures, while avoiding the use of protein denaturants and minimizing operator errors.
Implementation Method 1
an asymmetric membrane layer configured to separate a biomolecule from a biological fluid
Implementation Method 2
a first matrix layer and a second matrix layer... configured to preserve the biomolecule
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus is disclosed for separating and preserving biomolecules of a biological fluid sample. The apparatus includes an assembly having sides forming a hollow shape having a first opening at one end and second opening at the opposite end, a sample mixing chamber positioned adjacent the first opening within the assembly, the sample mixing chamber from which a flow of the biological fluid sample is actuated in a direction from the sample mixing chamber to the first matrix layer, the sample mixing chamber being in a direction downstream of the first opening, a first valve positioned between the sample mixing chamber and the first matrix layer, the first valve configured to control the flow to the first matrix layer, a first input in fluid communication with the sample mixing chamber and positioned upstream of the first valve, a second input positioned between the first matrix layer and the second matrix layer, and a second valve positioned between the second matrix layer and the second opening, the second valve configured to control the flow to the second matrix layer.