Multiplex Assay Separation Structures for Cross-Contamination Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing multiplex assays face challenges in efficiently separating and analyzing multiple liquid samples without cross-contamination and optimizing sample distribution in a single device.
Innovation Solution
A multiplex assay device with a separating structure, such as a trench or hydrophilic strip, and a well structure, where at least a portion of the separating structure is not covered by the sample contact area, allowing for precise separation and analysis of liquid samples into distinct areas.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a multiplex assay device uses a separating structure (trench or hydrophilic strip) that is not covered by the sample contact area, then liquid samples can be separated into distinct areas with minimal cross-contamination, but the device complexity increases due to the additional separating structure
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the sample contact area into multiple distinct regions using separating structures (trenches or hydrophilic strips). Each region can independently receive and contain specific liquid samples, preventing cross-contamination between different assay locations. This segmentation approach directly addresses the reliability requirement for accurate sample separation.
Solution Approach 2:
The separating structure acts as an intermediary element between different sample contact areas. It physically or chemically mediates the interaction between samples, blocking lateral flow and preventing mixing between adjacent regions. This intermediary structure enables reliable sample separation while maintaining a relatively simple overall device architecture.
2Productivity
If the separating structure is not covered by the sample contact area, then sample distribution into distinct areas is optimized, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The separating structure is strategically positioned in specific locations where sample separation is most needed, rather than uniformly across the entire device. This localized approach optimizes sample distribution efficiency while reducing the overall manufacturing precision requirements, as only specific regions require high-precision separation features.
Solution Approach 2:
The separating structures (trenches or hydrophilic strips) are pre-formed during device fabrication before sample loading. This preliminary creation of separation pathways ensures that samples are automatically directed into correct regions during the assay process, reducing the need for high-precision positioning during sample application and improving overall manufacturing feasibility.
3Productivity
If multiple liquid samples are analyzed simultaneously in separate areas, then the productivity of multiplex assays increases, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device uses a universal separating structure design (trenches or hydrophilic strips) that can accommodate multiple different sample types and assay configurations within the same basic framework. This multi-functional design enables simultaneous analysis of multiple liquid samples without requiring completely different device architectures for each assay type, thereby increasing productivity while controlling device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sample contact areas with separating structures are merged into a single integrated device platform. This consolidation allows simultaneous processing of multiple samples in parallel, significantly improving productivity. The merged design shares common components such as the base plate, cover plate, and separation structures, preventing device complexity from scaling linearly with the number of samples analyzed.
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 device effectively separates and analyzes multiple liquid samples with minimal cross-contamination, enabling simultaneous detection of different analytes in separate areas, enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of multiplex assays.
Implementation Method 1
a separating structure selected from, for example, a trench or a hydrophilic strip on a plate
Implementation Method 2
at least a portion of the separating structure is not covered by the sample contact area
Implementation Method 3
a cover plate that opposes the base plate, the cover plate covers at least a portion of the well area
Data Source
AI summary
A multiplex assay device including: a separation structure on a first plate; and a sample contact area on the surface of the first plate. Also disclosed is a method for fabricating a multiplex assay, including: making a reagent into a non-liquid reagent particle; creating a well on a sample contact area of a plate of a Q-card two plate sample card; and dropping one or more of the non-liquid reagent particles into at least one well.