Integrated Microchip for Automated Sample Lysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microchips for biochemical reactions like PCR do not have a built-in mechanism for preparing sample solutions, requiring manual operator intervention which increases operational complexity.
Innovation Solution
A microchip with a cell accepting section, a lysis solution chamber, and a lysis reaction chamber, integrated with a microchip controlling apparatus that automates the transfer and heating of lysis solution for executing lysis reactions, reducing operator involvement by enabling automatic sample solution preparation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual preparation of sample solution is used, then the microchip can be operated, but the operator's workload increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microchip is designed with integrated reservoirs containing lysis solution and buffer solution, along with built-in flow paths that enable the chip to automatically prepare sample solutions without external intervention. The chip serves itself by utilizing its own internal resources to perform sample preparation operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The lysis solution and buffer solution are pre-loaded into reservoirs within the microchip before operation. This preliminary preparation of reagents allows the automated sample solution preparation to proceed without requiring manual intervention during the actual operation.
2Productivity
If manual sample solution preparation is required, then the system structure can be simpler, but the operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The microchip is divided into distinct functional sections including reservoirs for storing lysis solution and buffer solution, flow paths for liquid transport, and reaction chambers. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function efficiently while contributing to the overall automated sample preparation capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The microchip integrates multiple functions including reagent storage, sample preparation, and reaction execution within a single device structure. The flow paths serve multiple purposes by transporting different solutions (lysis solution, buffer solution, and sample solutions) between various chambers.
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 solution reduces operator workload by automating the sample preparation process, allowing for efficient and simplified DNA analysis and PCR operations on the microchip.
Implementation Method 1
a lysis reaction unit heating the lysis solution containing the cells in the lysis reaction chamber for executing the lysis reaction
Data Source
AI summary
A microchip includes a cell accepting section, a lysis solution chamber and a lysis reaction chamber. The cell accepting section accepts cells obtained from a subject. The lysis solution chamber stores lysis solution for lysis of the cells. The lysis reaction of the cells is executed in the lysis reaction chamber.