Microfluidic PCR Cartridge for Parallel Nucleic Acid Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in vitro diagnostic analyses are bottlenecked due to the need for specialized equipment and centralized facilities, leading to delays and inefficiencies in sample processing and diagnosis, particularly in preparing biological samples for PCR and nucleic acid testing.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic cartridge-based diagnostic apparatus that enables automated sample preparation and nucleic acid testing at the point of care, allowing for parallel processing and high-throughput analysis of multiple samples without the need for centralized facilities, using a processor-controlled system with integrated heating, cooling, and detection capabilities.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized equipment is used for nucleic acid testing, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the diagnostic process into separate functional modules: automated sample preparation module, PCR amplification module, and detection module. Each module handles specific tasks independently, maintaining diagnostic accuracy while reducing overall system complexity and enabling modular deployment
Solution Approach 2:
A microfluidic cartridge serves as an intermediary component that interfaces with standard PCR machines. The cartridge contains pre-prepared samples and reagents, and can be loaded into conventional PCR equipment, thereby bridging the gap between automated preparation and existing diagnostic infrastructure without requiring completely new specialized equipment
2Measurement precision
If centralized facilities are used for batch processing, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but processing time and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
Samples are prepared in advance using automated preparation devices before being sent to centralized facilities. The automated preparation includes lysis, purification, and concentration steps, so that when samples reach the PCR facility, they are ready for immediate amplification, eliminating waiting time and accelerating the overall diagnostic process
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables continuous processing by automating sample preparation and using multi-well plates that can be processed sequentially. The automated preparation device can continuously prepare multiple samples, and the microfluidic cartridges maintain sample integrity during transport, ensuring uninterrupted diagnostic workflow from preparation through detection
3Productivity
If automated sample preparation is implemented, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated sample preparation device is designed to handle multiple sample types and preparation protocols using a single platform. It can process blood, saliva, and other biological samples through standardized workflows, increasing productivity without requiring separate specialized equipment for each sample type
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses disposable microfluidic cartridges that contain all necessary reagents and preparation components. These single-use cartridges eliminate the need for complex cleaning and sterilization systems, reducing device complexity while maintaining high throughput capability through continuous cartridge replacement
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 rapid and efficient sample preparation and analysis, capable of processing approximately 45 samples per hour with results available in under an hour, improving diagnostic efficiency and reducing the need for centralized facilities.
Implementation Method 1
a heating element configured to heat the reaction mixture in the process tube
Implementation Method 2
a magnetic separator configured to separate magnetic particles from the reaction mixture
Data Source
Figure 1A
Figure 1B
Figure 2
AI summary
The technology described herein generally relates to systems for extracting polynucleotides from multiple samples, particularly from biological samples, and additionally to systems that subsequently amplify and detect the extracted polynucleotides. The technology more particularly relates to microfluidic systems that carry out PCR on multiple samples of nucleotides of interest within microfluidic channels, and detect those nucleotides.