Microfluidic Sample Device for Biological Compound Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current biological sample analysis methods face challenges in accurately measuring low molecular weight compounds due to interference from abundant substances like proteins, phospholipids, and salts, which cause matrix effects that reduce sensitivity and accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A method using specific solvent systems and magnetic beads for positive selection of trace compounds and negative selection of abundant compounds, involving a microfluidic sample device with an adsorbent body unit coated with artificial antioxidants, to separate and concentrate target analytes from biological samples.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional immunoassay or mass spectrometry methods are used to analyze biological samples, then accurate measurements can be achieved, but the presence of abundant substances (proteins, phospholipids, salts) causes matrix effects that reduce sensitivity and accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies extraction by removing abundant interfering substances (proteins, phospholipids, salts) from the biological sample through precipitation and centrifugation steps, isolating the target low molecular weight compounds from the matrix that causes interference in measurements
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by using different preparation approaches for different sample types (whole blood, serum, plasma, urine) and different target compounds, optimizing the extraction and measurement conditions specifically for low molecular weight compounds while removing high molecular weight interferents
2Measurement precision
If biological samples are prepared by precipitation and centrifugation to remove abundant substances, then matrix effects are minimized, but the workflow becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies merging by combining multiple preparation steps (precipitation, centrifugation, separation) into an integrated workflow that systematically removes different classes of interferents (proteins first, then phospholipids and salts) in sequence, reducing overall complexity compared to multiple separate procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the sample preparation into distinct stages: initial precipitation for proteins, followed by separation of low molecular weight compounds from remaining matrix components, with each stage targeting specific interferents to simplify the overall process
3Measurement precision
If biological samples are prepared by precipitation and centrifugation to remove abundant substances, then matrix effects are minimized, but the process requires significant time and multiple steps
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing precipitation of abundant substances before the actual measurement process, and by pre-separating the sample matrix components to remove interferents in advance, thereby minimizing matrix effects during the critical measurement phase
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies skipping by using centrifugation to rapidly separate precipitated proteins from the supernatant containing low molecular weight compounds, and by quickly removing the precipitate to proceed efficiently to the next measurement step without prolonged exposure to interfering substances
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 method effectively reduces workflow, isolates specific compounds, and enhances the sensitivity and accuracy of analysis by minimizing matrix effects, allowing for the precise detection of trace components in complex biological samples.
Implementation Method 1
a separation of abundant compounds of the biological sample by using magnetic beads
Implementation Method 2
a microfluidic sample device with an adsorbent body unit coated with artificial antioxidants, to separate and concentrate target analytes from biological samples
Implementation Method 3
A method using specific solvent systems and magnetic beads for positive selection of trace compounds and negative selection of abundant compounds
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a method for analyzing target compounds from a fluid or dried biological sample by using a microfluidic sample device including a hollow cartridge and an absorbent body unit.