Multi-chamber Nucleic Acid Amplification Device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nucleic acid amplification and detection typically require extensive sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction, which are time-consuming and labor-intensive, limiting the rapid detection of biological organisms in clinical, food testing, agricultural, and environmental samples.
Innovation Solution
A multi-chamber nucleic acid amplification and detection device that allows for visual detection of genetic markers without sample preparation or nucleic acid purification, using a cartridge with multiple reaction chambers and a heating apparatus for isothermal amplification, enabling simultaneous detection of multiple targets and including pre-loaded amplification and detection reagents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If extensive sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction procedures are used, then detection accuracy is improved, but detection time and operational complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines sample preparation, nucleic acid extraction, amplification, and detection into a single integrated microfluidic chip system. Multiple functional modules including lysis chambers, extraction chambers, and reaction chambers are merged into one device, allowing simultaneous processing of sample preparation and amplification without requiring separate laboratory equipment or manual transfer steps.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic chip serves multiple functions within a single device: it performs cell lysis, nucleic acid extraction, DNA amplification, and detection. The system can handle various sample types (blood, saliva, environmental samples) and detect multiple targets, eliminating the need for separate specialized equipment for each function.
2Measurement precision
If extensive sample preparation and nucleic acid extraction procedures are used, then detection accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the complex detection process into distinct modular chambers within the microfluidic chip: lysis chamber, extraction chamber, and reaction chamber. Each chamber is optimized for its specific function with integrated reagent reservoirs, allowing the complex process to be managed through simple sample loading without requiring the user to understand or manually perform each separation step.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic chip performs automated sample processing through its integrated design. Reagents are pre-loaded into the chip, and the fluidic channels automatically transport samples through lysis, extraction, and amplification steps without manual intervention. The system self-regulates the complex multi-step process, requiring only simple sample input from the user.
3Productivity
If multiple detection targets are analyzed simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-chamber microfluidic architecture where multiple reaction chambers can operate simultaneously or in sequence. The system uses vertical stacking and horizontal arrangement of chambers to accommodate multiple detection targets, transforming the single-linear detection path into a multi-dimensional processing network that increases throughput without proportionally increasing operational complexity.
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, on-site or point-of-care detection of biological threats and pathogens by simplifying the process, reducing detection time, and eliminating the need for laboratory equipment, facilitating quick identification of genetic markers in various sample types.
Implementation Method 1
a heating apparatus having a heating element, a controller adapted to activate the heating element to generate heat
Implementation Method 2
using a cartridge with multiple reaction chambers and a heating apparatus for isothermal amplification
Implementation Method 3
enables naked-eye colorimetric detection via optically transparent windows/view ports for viewing reaction progress
Data Source
AI summary
A nucleic acid amplification and detection device includes an amplification cartridge with a plurality of reaction chambers for containing an amplification reagent and a visual detection reagent, and a plurality of optically transparent view ports for viewing inside the reaction chambers. The cartridge also includes a sample receiving port which is adapted to receive a fluid sample and fluidically connected to distribute the fluid sample to the reaction chamber, and in one embodiment, a plunger is carried by the cartridge for occluding fluidic communication to the reaction chambers. The device also includes a heating apparatus having a heating element which is activated by controller to generate heat when a trigger event is detected. The heating apparatus includes a cartridge-mounting section which positioned a cartridge in thermal communication with the heating element so that visual changes to the contents of the reaction chambers are viewable through the view ports.