Microfluidic Device for Automated Nucleic Acid Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional microfluidic devices face challenges in coordinating complex tasks efficiently for sample analysis, particularly in amplifying and detecting polynucleotides associated with pathogens like bacteria, mold, and viruses.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a rigid substrate with a flexible cover element, a microfluidic network, and binding members for capturing and amplifying target molecules, allowing for fluid flow control and detection within a central well that performs multiple solid phase coupling procedures, including PCR, for accurate and automated biochemical analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional microfluidic devices are used for sample analysis, then polynucleotide amplification and detection can be performed, but coordination of various tasks becomes difficult and complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functional tasks (amplification, detection, and task coordination) into a single integrated device architecture. The microfluidic device combines the reaction chamber, detection chamber, and control mechanisms into one unified system, eliminating the need for separate devices or complex coordination between multiple components. This integration directly addresses the coordination difficulty by making the device self-contained and automatically managing task sequences through its integrated design.
2Extent of automation
If manual analysis procedures are used, then flexibility in analysis is maintained, but manpower requirements increase and automation is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The device is designed to perform analysis tasks automatically without requiring manual intervention for each step. The microfluidic system automatically controls fluid flow, reagent delivery, and measurement processes through integrated pumps, valves, and sensors. The device serves itself by autonomously managing the complete analysis workflow from sample introduction to result generation, thereby maximizing automation while minimizing manpower requirements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate devices are used for different analysis tasks, then each task can be optimized independently, but device complexity and coordination become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal microfluidic device that performs multiple analysis functions within a single integrated platform. The device can handle different polynucleotide amplification methods (PCR, LAMP, RPA), detection techniques (fluorescence, colorimetric, electrochemical), and sample types through its modular yet integrated architecture. This multi-functionality allows the same device to adapt to various analysis requirements without needing separate specialized devices for each task, thereby reducing the number of devices while maintaining versatility.
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 fast, accurate, and automated detection of nucleic acids associated with pathogens, such as HIV, in whole blood samples, reducing manpower requirements and simplifying the analysis process.
Implementation Method 1
a flexible cover element at least partially covering the substrate... an actuator unit adapted for effecting a fluid flow between the first structure and the second structure by pressing the flexible cover element against the substrate
Implementation Method 2
a second structure formed in the substrate, adapted for accommodating liquids and comprising at least one binding member adapted for capturing the target molecules
Implementation Method 3
a microfluidic network interconnecting at least the first structure and the second structure
Data Source
AI summary
A device comprising a rigid substrate, a flexible cover element at least partially covering the substrate, a first structure formed in the substrate, adapted for accommodating liquids and adapted for releasing contents of one or more cells, spores, or viruses, the contents including the target molecules, a second structure formed in the substrate, adapted for accommodating liquids and comprising at least one binding member adapted for capturing the target molecules and for determining a value indicative for the presence and/or amount of the target molecules, a microfluidic network interconnecting at least the first structure and the second structure, and an actuator member adapted for effecting a fluid flow between the first structure and the second structure by pressing the flexible cover element against the substrate to selectively close a portion of the microfluidic network.