Microfluidic Reaction Card Sampling for Nucleic Acid Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nucleic acid amplification methods are prone to false positive results due to sample contamination and require substantial sampling volumes, limiting their sensitivity and efficiency in detection and quantification.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising a reaction card with a channel network, valve, and micropump, along with a reaction vessel assembly, which allows for controlled sampling and analysis of amplification products, minimizing contamination and sampling volume through fluid communication and controlled aliquot extraction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional nucleic acid amplification methods are used, then amplification of nucleic acids can be achieved, but false positive results occur due to sample contamination and substantial sampling volumes are required
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the amplification reaction into separate compartments within a microfluidic device, with distinct regions for reagent preparation, amplification, and product analysis. This physical segmentation prevents contamination between steps and eliminates the need for post-reaction processing, thereby improving detection accuracy while minimizing contamination risks
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a microfluidic device as an intermediary system that automates the amplification process and integrates multiple functions (mixing, amplification, separation, detection) into a single controlled environment. This intermediary device eliminates manual handling steps that cause contamination and reduces the sampling volume required
2Measurement precision
If traditional amplification methods are used, then nucleic acid amplification can be performed, but substantial sampling volumes are required which limits sensitivity and efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The system transitions from bulk liquid handling to microfluidic channel-based fluid manipulation, effectively moving the operation into a micro-scale dimension. This dimensional change enables precise control of tiny fluid volumes (nanoliters to picoliters), dramatically improving detection sensitivity while reducing the sampling volume required from milliliters to microliters
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces traditional mechanical pipetting and manual sample handling with automated microfluidic pumping and fluid transport systems. This substitution eliminates the need for large sampling volumes by providing precise, automated control of micro-scale fluid movement, thereby enhancing detection sensitivity and efficiency
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 system enhances the sensitivity of nucleic acid detection while reducing contamination risks and sampling volume, enabling more efficient amplification and analysis of nucleic acids.
Implementation Method 1
a micropump, all of which are disposed within the card. The valve and the micropump are operably connected with the channel network
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides systems and methods for processing samples. In a method, a reaction card is provided that has a channel network, a valve, and a micropump, all disposed within the card. The reaction card also has a collection well disposed on a surface of the card and a tubular member extending out from the card. A reaction vessel is provided and affixed to the reaction card such that the tubular member is inserted into the reaction vessel. Amplification reaction reagents and a sample are delivered into the reaction vessel, and an amplification reaction is initiated within the reaction vessel, resulting in an amplification product being disposed within the reaction vessel. The valve is opened to atmosphere, and the first micropump is activated to pump an aliquot of reaction product from the reaction vessel into the tubular member, through the channel network, and into the collection well.