Microbiome Collection Device with Segmented Absorption
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for collecting and analyzing the microbiome rely on fecal samples, which have limitations in accurately representing the composition and function of the intestinal microbiome, as microbiomes differ between various tissues in the intestines and feces.
Innovation Solution
A microbiome collection device with a casing and an absorption member that absorbs microbiomes directly from the digestive organs, featuring a membrane filter, pH-sensitive films, and a piston for pressurizing the absorption member to facilitate discharge of collected substances.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fecal samples are used for microbiome collection, then the collection method is simple and non-invasive, but the accuracy of microbiome analysis is reduced because feces do not fully represent the intestinal microbiome composition
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the intestinal tract into multiple segments (stomach, small intestine, large intestine) using partition walls, allowing separate collection of microbiome samples from each segment. This segmentation enables accurate representation of microbiome composition in each specific location rather than using mixed fecal samples.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces an intermediary collection system that directly contacts the intestinal wall and absorbs microbiome substances through the absorption member. This intermediary mechanism enables non-invasive direct collection from the intestinal tract without requiring surgical intervention or complex procedures.
2Measurement precision
If direct collection from digestive organs is implemented, then microbiome analysis accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple components needed for separation and collection
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses partition walls to divide the internal space into separate compartments corresponding to different intestinal segments. Each compartment can independently collect microbiome substances from its specific location, enabling accurate representation of microbiome composition while maintaining a modular structure that manages complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the device are designed with specific local qualities - the absorption member has specific porosity and chemical properties for microbiome absorption, the membrane filter has specific pore sizes for separating substances, and partition walls are positioned to match the anatomical segments. This localized optimization enables accurate collection while keeping each component's design straightforward.
3Productivity
If separation of digestive organ substances is implemented, then analysis efficiency is improved, but device complexity increases due to multiple inlet holes and films required for different digestive organs
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates multiple inlet holes, each leading to a separate compartment through partition walls. Each inlet hole can be equipped with pH-sensitive films specific to the digestive organ it serves. This segmentation allows simultaneous collection from multiple organs with different pH conditions, improving analysis efficiency while maintaining organized, modular structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses pH-sensitive films that change their properties based on pH conditions. Films with different pH sensitivities can be selectively placed in different inlet holes to detect and separate substances from digestive organs with different pH levels (stomach acid, small intestine, large intestine). This parameter-based differentiation enables efficient separation without requiring complex mechanical valves or switches.
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 direct collection and analysis of microbiomes from specific digestive organs, improving the efficiency and accuracy of microbiome analysis by separating and storing substances from different parts of the digestive system.
Implementation Method 1
an absorption member arranged in the arrangement space so as to absorb a microbiome flowing in through the inlet hole
Implementation Method 2
since the membrane arranged in the inlet hole acts as a filter, undigested solid food does not flow into the inside of the casing, and only fluid flows into the same
Implementation Method 3
films having a pH of 6 to 6.5 are selectively arranged in a plurality of inlet holes. The film is not decomposed in the stomach among the digestive organs, but is decomposed in the small intestine and large intestine
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a microbiome collection device comprising: a casing having an arrangement space and an inlet hole, and an absorption member, which is arranged in the arrangement space so as to absorb a microbiome that flows in through the inlet hole. Therefore, a microbiome is directly collected from the digestive organs without collecting the microbiome from feces excreted from the body, and thus analysis efficiency of a digestive organ microbiome is enhanced.