miRNA Probe Panel for Accurate Ovarian Tumor Blood Detection
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting ovarian tumors, such as transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 tests, are inadequate due to limited reach and specificity, and existing miRNA markers lack sufficient sensitivity and specificity for accurate ovarian tumor detection, leading to potential false positives and invasiveness in tissue sampling.
Innovation Solution
Development of nucleic acids, including probes and primers, that specifically bind to miRNA markers (e.g., hsa-miR-4675, hsa-miR-4783-3p, hsa-miR-1228-5p, hsa-miR-4532, hsa-miR-6802-5p, hsa-miR-3940-5p, hsa-miR-1307-3p, hsa-miR-8073, hsa-miR-3184-5p, hsa-miR-1233-5p, hsa-miR-6088, hsa-miR-5195-3p, hsa-miR-320b, hsa-miR-4649-5p, hsa-miR-6800-5p, and hsa-miR-1343-3p) for detecting ovarian tumors from blood samples with minimal invasiveness.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple different assays are performed in separate laboratories, then comprehensive tumor marker analysis is achieved, but inter-laboratory variability and result comparison become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple different tumor marker assays (CA125, HE4, CEA, CA19-9) into a single integrated microfluidic device platform. This merging allows all assays to be performed under identical controlled conditions within one device, eliminating inter-laboratory variability while maintaining comprehensive tumor marker analysis capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic device is designed as a universal platform that can perform multiple different immunoassays simultaneously using a common control structure. The device accommodates various tumor marker detections (epithelial ovarian cancer markers CA125 and HE4, gastrointestinal cancer markers CEA and CA19-9) through standardized assay chambers and control elements, enabling one device to serve multiple diagnostic functions.
2Measurement precision
If conventional immunoassay methods are used, then tumor markers can be detected, but the processes are time-consuming and require extensive manual intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical operations with automated fluid control systems. Microfluidic channels, pumps, and valves automatically handle sample transport, reagent mixing, and assay processing, eliminating time-consuming manual intervention while maintaining detection accuracy for tumor markers.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic device enables continuous automated processing of tumor marker detection. Once the sample is loaded, the system continuously performs all assay steps (incubation, washing, detection) without interruption or manual intervention, significantly improving diagnostic throughput compared to batch processing in conventional methods.
3Productivity
If multiple assay components are integrated in one device, then processing time is reduced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the integrated device into distinct functional modules: separate assay chambers for different tumor markers, dedicated reagent reservoirs, individual control elements for each assay, and segmented fluidic pathways. This segmentation allows complex multi-assay functionality to be organized into manageable, independently controllable units, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centralized control system that acts as an intermediary between the user and the complex microfluidic operations. This control system automatically manages the coordination of multiple pumps, valves, and assay processes, shielding the user from the underlying complexity while enabling efficient integrated processing.
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 proposed method significantly enhances the sensitivity and specificity of ovarian tumor detection, reducing false positives and negatives, and allows for early detection through non-invasive blood sampling, thereby improving treatment outcomes and reducing unnecessary examinations.
Implementation Method 1
A control structure may be used to control the flow of fluids through the microfluidic device
Implementation Method 2
The capture probe and target analyte may be any molecule that specifically recognizes and binds to another molecule
Data Source
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AI summary
This application provides a kit or a device for detection of ovarian tumor, comprising a nucleic acid(s) for detecting a miRNA(s) in a sample from a subject, and a method for detecting ovarian tumor, comprising measuring the miRNA(s) in vitro.