Integrated Microfluidic Chip for Nucleic Acid Synthesis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nucleic acid synthesis systems are inefficient, require high labor input from trained personnel, and pose safety and operational usability concerns due to their modular and non-integrated design.
Innovation Solution
A gas distribution unit and fluid supply system with proportional valves, pressure sensors, and safety features, along with a chip holder and collection unit, are integrated to provide controlled and safe operation, reducing the need for manual intervention and enhancing efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If separate modules are used for synthesis, collection and processing, then system flexibility is improved, but operational complexity and labor requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines separate modules for synthesis, collection and processing into a single integrated system. The microfluidic chip includes integrated wells for both synthesis and collection activities, eliminating the need for separate modules and reducing operational complexity while maintaining system flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic chip is designed as a universal platform that performs multiple functions - synthesis of nucleic acids, collection of products, and processing activities - all within a single device. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed and simplifies operation.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate modules are used for synthesis and collection, then modularity is improved, but safety and ease of use deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges synthesis and collection functions into a single microfluidic chip, improving ease of use by eliminating the need to transfer samples between separate modules. The integrated design allows all activities to be performed in one location, reducing operational steps and potential points of failure.
3Measurement precision
If manual intervention is required for each step, then control precision is improved, but productivity and labor requirements worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic chip is designed to perform multiple functions automatically within the same device. The integrated wells and fluid delivery systems enable automated synthesis, collection and processing without requiring manual intervention between steps, thereby improving productivity while maintaining precision through controlled fluid handling.
4Ease of operation
If an integrated system is used, then ease of operation and safety are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the microfluidic chip into distinct functional wells - synthesis wells and collection wells - which are physically separated but integrated into a single device. This segmentation allows different activities to be performed simultaneously in isolated compartments, improving ease of operation while managing complexity through modular internal structure.
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 system improves operational safety, reduces labor requirements, and enhances efficiency by allowing for precise control and automation of nucleic acid synthesis processes, ensuring safer and more efficient nucleic acid synthesis.
Implementation Method 1
The proportioning mechanism may comprise a piezoelectric element. For example, it may comprise a piezoelectric ceramic or crystal, which may for example be contracted by applying an electrical field.
Implementation Method 2
Alternatively, the proportioning mechanism may comprise an electromagnetic coil. That is, the proportioning mechanism may be based on at least one element interacting with a magnetic field to regulate the pressure at the output of the valve.
Implementation Method 3
the gas distribution unit is configured to supply the gas at the at least one outlet at a predetermined pressure
Implementation Method 4
By means of this control, at least one property of the well can be changed. For example, by applying a voltage or a current to an individual well, a pH in this well can be changed, which pH change may lead to coupling of nucleotides to the bead.
Implementation Method 5
In WO 2016094512 A1, for example, bubbles may form in response to the voltage or current, lifting the bead out of the well.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to devices, system and methods for synthesizing and post-processing nucleic acids. The system comprising a fluid supply unit, a synthesis unit comprising a microfluidic chip, configured for the synthesis of nucleic acids, a valve assembly, comprising at least one multiport valve, and a collection unit configured to collect nucleic acids. The method for synthesising nucleic acids utilizes the system and comprises synthesising nucleic acids on the microfluidic chip, selectively releasing synthesised nucleic acids from the microfluidic chip, guiding released nucleic acids to the collection unit, and collecting released nucleic acids in a well plate comprised by the collection unit. The method for post-processing synthesized nucleic acids comprises providing one or more nucleic acids attached to a solid support in a first compartment, adding a first solution to cleave the nucleic acids off the support and adding a second solution to elute the nucleic acids into a second compartment.