Multi-Channel Isothermal Amplification Optical Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nucleic acid amplification techniques, such as PCR, face challenges in accurate quantitative detection and efficiency, especially when dealing with multiple samples, due to limitations in real-time fluorescence signal analysis.
Innovation Solution
A multi-channel isothermal amplification system with an optical system that uses multiple channels to detect fluorescence signals of varying wavelengths from sample tubes arranged in a heating block, integrating a luminous source module at the lower end and a detection module on the side, allowing for accurate and efficient measurement without light interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a conventional PCR system with single-channel detection is used, then the device structure is simple, but the detection efficiency and accuracy for multiple samples are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The optical detection system is segmented into multiple independent detection channels (first detection channel, second detection channel, etc.), each capable of detecting fluorescence signals at different wavelengths. This segmentation allows simultaneous multi-parameter detection across multiple sample tubes, significantly improving detection efficiency while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular architecture
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system is designed with multi-functional detection channels that can detect various fluorescence signals simultaneously. Each detection channel is configured to detect specific wavelength ranges, enabling the system to perform multiple detection functions (different fluorophores, different sample types) using a unified platform, thereby improving productivity without proportionally increasing complexity
2Measurement precision
If the luminous source module and detection module are separated, then light interference is avoided, but the device size increases and portability decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The luminous source module is positioned at the lower end of the heating block while detection modules are arranged on the side surface, creating a nested spatial configuration where the optical path is carefully designed to allow excitation light to pass through the sample tubes from below while detection occurs from the side. This nested arrangement minimizes device volume by efficiently utilizing three-dimensional space while maintaining optical isolation to prevent light interference
Solution Approach 2:
The optical system transitions from a traditional linear arrangement to a three-dimensional spatial configuration. The luminous source is positioned in the vertical dimension (lower end), while detection modules are positioned in the horizontal dimension (side surface), creating orthogonal optical paths that eliminate interference while maintaining a compact footprint
3Measurement precision
If gel-type electrophoresis is performed for DNA fragment analysis, then qualitative results can be obtained, but quantitative detection accuracy is poor and the process is time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical gel electrophoresis system with an optical fluorescence detection system. Instead of separating DNA fragments by size through physical electrophoresis and visualizing them on gels, the system uses fluorescently labeled probes that bind to target sequences and emit detectable signals. This substitution enables real-time quantitative detection directly in the reaction tubes, eliminating the time-consuming electrophoresis step while dramatically improving measurement precision through optical signal intensity measurement
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
This system enables rapid and precise analysis of multiple samples by detecting fluorescence signals through multiple channels, improving accuracy and usability while maintaining a compact design.
Implementation Method 1
a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique of analyzing deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and ribonucleic acid (RNA) using a heat stabilization enzyme
Implementation Method 2
detecting fluorescence signals using rays of light having various wavelengths
Data Source
Figure 1~2
Figure 3(a)~3(b)
Figure 4
AI summary
Disclosed are a multi-channel isothermal amplification system and an operation method thereof, the operation method of the multi-channel isothermal amplification system comprising: a first step in which sample tubes are disposed in holes formed in a line in a heating block, respectively, wherein the heating block comprises: a first heating block area in which some of the plurality of holes are formed in a line; and a second heating block area in which the rest of the plurality of holes are formed in a line, and which is disposed to be in a line with the first heating block area, wherein the first heating block area and the second heating block area are spaced apart from each other at an interval as much as one hole area between two holes; and a second step in which an optical system moves in a longitudinal direction of the first heating block area and the second heating block area, and the optical system also causes rays of light having their respective fixed wavelengths to be successively incident upon the sample tubes into the holes of the first heating block area and the holes of the second heating block, thereby detecting respective fluorescence signals of samples disposed in the sample tubes.