Multiplex Slide Plate Device for Uniform PCR Sample Loading
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing methods for conducting PCR assays are labor-intensive and prone to errors due to the need for multiple pipettings to add primers and samples to reaction vessels, which can lead to cross-contamination and inefficiency, especially when dealing with a large number of targets.
Innovation Solution
A multiplex slide plate device with a sacrificial layer and microfluidic channel system that allows for the quick and uniform loading of samples into reaction vessels through a single pipetting operation, using a housing with injection and exhaust holes to facilitate the flow of sample solution and oil for efficient filling and removal, while maintaining a controlled distance for successful PCR reactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pipetting methods are used to add primers and samples to reaction vessels, then the PCR assay can be performed, but the operation becomes labor-intensive and error-prone with multiple pipettings required
Solution Approach 1:
The device segments the reaction system into a master well containing all primers and a sample well, with microfluidic channels automatically distributing primers to individual reaction vessels. This segmentation eliminates the need for repeated pipetting operations while maintaining assay functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
A microfluidic channel system acts as an intermediary between the master well and reaction vessels, automatically transporting primer solutions. This intermediary mechanism replaces manual pipetting operations, reducing both labor intensity and error probability.
2Reliability
If multiple pipettings are performed to add different reagents, then complete reagent delivery is achieved, but cross-contamination between vessels increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic channel system serves as a controlled intermediary that delivers primers directly from the master well to individual reaction vessels through sealed pathways. This eliminates the risk of cross-contamination between vessels that occurs during manual pipetting operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical pipetting system with a microfluidic transport system that uses capillary action and pressure differentials to move reagents. This substitution eliminates the mechanical contact between pipette tips and multiple vessels that causes cross-contamination.
3Loss of substance
If reaction vessel volume is reduced to nano-liter range to save reagents, then reagent consumption decreases, but manual filling becomes difficult and cross-contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The microfluidic channel system acts as a precise intermediary that delivers exact nano-liter volumes of primers from the master well to each reaction vessel. This intermediary mechanism enables accurate filling of ultra-small volumes that would be impossible to achieve manually.
Solution Approach 2:
The device uses hydraulic principles through the microfluidic channel system to control and deliver precise volumes of liquid reagents. This hydraulic mechanism enables reliable filling of nano-liter scale reaction vessels without manual intervention.
4Quantity of substance
If 36 pipettings are required for each primer pair to 36 reaction vessels, then complete primer distribution is achieved, but the time and labor required increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges all primer pairs into a single master well instead of keeping them in separate vials. The microfluidic channel system then distributes all primers simultaneously to all reaction vessels, reducing 36 separate pipetting operations to a single automated process.
Solution Approach 2:
The microfluidic channel system performs multiple functions simultaneously: it transports multiple different primer pairs, distributes them to multiple reaction vessels, and controls precise volumes all through a single integrated system, replacing 36 separate pipetting operations.
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 approach simplifies the PCR reagent preparation process, reduces the time required for filling reaction vessels, minimizes cross-contamination, and conserves sample volume by enabling rapid and uniform loading of samples, thereby enhancing the efficiency and accuracy of molecular biological detection.
Implementation Method 1
a sample solution is injected from the first injection hole to the injection channel, such that the sample solution flows from the injection channel through the main channel to the distal channel
Data Source
AI summary
An operation method of a multiplex slide plate device is provided. First, the multiplex slide plate device is assembled, including a slide plate, a sacrificial layer and a housing. The slide plate has reaction vessels, and the sacrificial layer has a microfluidic channel composed of an injection channel, a main channel and a distal channel. A sample solution is injected to the injection channel, such that the sample solution flows from the injection channel through the main channel to the distal channel, wherein the sample solution loads into the reaction vessels. Afterwards, an oil is injected to the injection channel, such that the oil flows from the injection channel through the main channel to the distal channel, wherein the oil removes the sample solution not loaded into the reaction vessels. Next, the sacrificial layer is heated to melt, and the melted sacrificial layer is mixed with the oil.