Multiplex PCR Cartridge for Pathogen and Resistance Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections lack comprehensive antimicrobial resistance detection and differentiation, leading to inadequate treatment decisions and potential spread of resistant strains.
Innovation Solution
A method involving the separation of a sample into subsamples, amplification of multiple target nucleic acid sequences using specific reagents, and detection of amplification products to identify pathogens and their variants, enabling accurate determination of antimicrobial resistance and subgroup presence.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current detection methods are used for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae, then basic pathogen detection is achieved, but comprehensive antimicrobial resistance detection and differentiation are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into multiple independent assay chambers, each targeting specific pathogens or resistance markers. This allows simultaneous detection of multiple pathogens and their resistance profiles through parallel amplification reactions, resolving the contradiction between identification accuracy and resistance detection versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The assay system is designed with multi-functionality to detect both pathogen presence and antimicrobial resistance markers within a single platform. By incorporating universal amplification conditions that work across multiple target sequences, the system achieves both precise pathogen identification and comprehensive resistance detection without requiring separate tests.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple target nucleic acid sequences are amplified simultaneously, then comprehensive pathogen and resistance detection is achieved, but sample separation into subsamples is required
Solution Approach 1:
The sample is automatically segmented into multiple subsamples that are distributed to different assay chambers. This physical segmentation enables simultaneous amplification of multiple target sequences without cross-contamination, achieving comprehensive detection while managing complexity through automated fluid handling and chamber isolation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses intermediary components including microfluidic channels, partition walls, and automated dispensing mechanisms to manage sample distribution. These intermediaries facilitate the complex task of sample separation and multi-chamber distribution, reducing the operational burden while enabling comprehensive multi-target detection.
3Loss of time
If rapid on-site diagnostics are implemented, then treatment decision speed is improved, but comprehensive resistance detection and differentiation capabilities are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs continuous parallel amplification reactions across multiple assay chambers simultaneously, eliminating sequential processing delays. This continuous parallel action enables rapid detection of multiple pathogens and resistance markers in a single integrated run, achieving both speed and comprehensive resistance characterization accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection approach transitions from sequential single-target analysis to parallel multi-dimensional detection across multiple chambers and target sequences. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous measurement of pathogen presence, resistance markers, and subtype differentiation, achieving comprehensive accuracy without sacrificing diagnostic speed.
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
Facilitates rapid, accurate identification of pathogens and their variants, allowing informed treatment decisions and reducing the spread of resistant strains.
Implementation Method 1
The method may be a polymerase chain reaction
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a method for detecting the presence of at least two pathogens in a sample, wherein additionally subtypes and/or variant-derived properties such as treatment susceptibility are determined. The method may be a polymerase chain reaction and may be facilitated by a cartridge and dried reagents. The pathogens may be bacterial pathogens such as Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. The invention further relates to a cartridge and/or a cartridge reader for performing the method of the invention.