Multiplex Assay Device Capillary Stops Prevent Cross-Contamination
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current multiplexed analysis technologies for biological samples face challenges in accuracy, sensitivity, and reliability, with high complexity and risk of sample cross-contamination, hindering advancements in diagnostics and therapeutics.
Innovation Solution
A multiplex assay device (MAD) with microscale features and a capture agent slide, featuring capillary stops and a serpentine channel design, prevents cross-contamination by directing and retaining samples in discrete positions, allowing for the simultaneous analysis of multiple biological components while ensuring accurate binding and detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiplexed analysis technologies are used to analyze multiple biological components simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases and reliability deteriorates due to sample cross-contamination risk
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the sample analysis into multiple discrete microscale wells, each isolated from others by physical barriers. Capture agents are segmented and positioned in specific wells to bind with target biological components, preventing cross-contamination while enabling simultaneous multiplexed analysis of multiple samples and analytes.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the device have specialized functions: input openings for sample loading, microscale wells with specific capture agents for targeted binding, output openings for analysis, and hydrophobic barriers for isolation. Each local region is optimized for its specific function to ensure reliable multiplexed analysis.
2Reliability
If microscale features and capture agent arrays are used to prevent cross-contamination, then reliability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device utilizes capillary action and hydrophobic barrier properties to automatically direct sample flow through the microscale features without requiring complex external pumping or control systems. Samples self-assemble into the correct wells and remain isolated, reducing mechanical complexity while maintaining reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The device employs hydrophobic barriers and capillary forces to control fluid movement through the microscale array. These passive hydraulic principles enable reliable sample isolation and directed flow without complex mechanical components, balancing reliability with simplified device architecture.
3Productivity
If multiple capture agents are used for simultaneous analysis, then productivity is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Capture agents are pre-positioned in specific microscale wells during device fabrication or preparation, before samples are introduced. This preliminary arrangement ensures that when samples flow through the device, binding occurs at predetermined locations with high precision, enabling multiplexed analysis without requiring complex real-time positioning systems.
4Ease of operation
If input and output openings are provided for sample flow, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability may worsen due to potential cross-contamination between samples
Solution Approach 1:
The device extracts and isolates samples into individual microscale wells from the bulk input stream. Hydrophobic barriers and capillary forces work together to prevent sample carryover between wells, allowing easy sample loading through input openings and exhaust through output openings without compromising sample isolation and reliability.
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 MAD enables robust, user-friendly, and economical multiplexed analysis of biological components, enhancing accuracy and sensitivity, reducing complexity, and facilitating the discovery of novel therapeutics and monitoring of treatments.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of capillary stops arranged adjacent each of the plurality of first openings configured to prevent cross-contamination between at least one first opening of a first row of the plurality of rows and at least one first opening of a second row of the plurality of rows adjacent the first row
Implementation Method 2
a substrate comprising microscale features for directing and retaining samples in discrete positions relative to a surface comprising a plurality of capture agents that bind to distinct biological components of the sample
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the current disclosure are directed to systems, methods and apparatus for the multiplexed analysis of biological material. In some embodiments, the apparatus may comprise an assembly including a first frame including a plurality of first openings; a capture agent slide; and a channel membrane.