Modular Assay Support Inserts for Vapor-Tight Sample Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods and devices for supporting biological samples during spatial analysis and heating lack portability, fail to provide access to specific sample regions or wells, and do not ensure vapor-tight seals to prevent cross-contamination, while imaging systems have variability in resolution and sensitivity, and processing protocols are inconsistent.
Innovation Solution
The development of modular support devices with movable inserts and gaskets that allow flexible positioning, direct access to substrate ports, vapor-tight seals, and even heating, accommodating various sample volumes and types, and preventing cross-contamination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If current support devices are used for biological samples, then samples can be supported during analysis, but the devices lack portability and do not provide access to specific sample regions
Solution Approach 1:
The support device is divided into a base and multiple removable inserts, where each insert can be independently positioned to provide access to specific sample regions. This segmentation allows the device to maintain structural simplicity while enabling flexible access to different areas of the substrate without requiring complex mechanisms.
2Reliability
If current support devices are used, then samples can be contained, but they do not provide vapor-tight seals to prevent cross-contamination
Solution Approach 1:
Flexible seals are integrated into the removable inserts, which are made of elastomeric materials that can deform to conform to the base and create vapor-tight seals. These flexible sealing elements prevent cross-contamination between sample regions without requiring complex mechanical sealing mechanisms, maintaining device simplicity while ensuring reliability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If fixed support devices are used, then sample positioning is stable, but the devices do not accommodate various sample volumes and types
Solution Approach 1:
The support device transitions from a fixed structure to a dynamic configuration where removable inserts can be added, removed, and repositioned based on the specific sample requirements. This dynamic adaptability allows the same base to accommodate various sample volumes and types by simply changing the insert configuration, without requiring complex adjustable mechanisms.
4Temperature
If heating is applied to support devices, then temperature control is achieved, but heating is not even across the substrate
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple heating elements are integrated into the base structure, combining thermal energy distribution across multiple zones. This merging of heating functions ensures even temperature control across the entire substrate surface by distributing heat uniformly through multiple sources rather than relying on a single heating element, achieving both temperature control and heating uniformity.
Data Source
AI summary
A substrate holder includes a base configured to receive a substrate; a cover configured to mateably engage with the base, the cover defining an opening formed by inner sidewalls; and a removable insert defining a surface, the removable insert being configured to be received within the opening of the cover. The removable insert includes a gasket; a projection coupled to the gasket; and at least two insert tabs extending from opposite sides of the removable insert, each insert tab being configured to engage with at least one of the inner sidewalls forming the opening of the cover.