Multiplexed Electrochemical Biosensor for Rapid Contaminant Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting environmental contaminants such as pathogens, mycotoxins, pesticides, GMOs, PFAS, bisphenols, phthalates, and food allergens are complex, require specialized equipment and reagents, and are not suitable for rapid, real-time detection, especially under ordinary room temperature conditions.
Innovation Solution
A multiplexed electrochemical biosensor using a semiconducting nanostructure thin-film on a gold-based working electrode stack for label-free detection of multiple contaminants, allowing for real-time, rapid, and quantitative analysis of up to 16 analytes with minimal pre-processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current methods for detecting environmental contaminants are used, then detection accuracy can be maintained, but device complexity and operational complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple detection functions into a single electrode strip that can detect multiple contaminants simultaneously. The strip integrates multiple sensors, each functionalized to detect specific analytes (pathogens, mycotoxins, pesticides, GMOs, PFAS, bisphenols, phthalates, and food allergens), eliminating the need for multiple separate detection devices and complex laboratory equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The electrode strip serves as a universal detection platform capable of detecting various types of environmental contaminants through a single device. Each sensor on the strip can be functionalized with different capture probes to detect different analytes, making the system multi-functional and adaptable to various detection needs without requiring specialized equipment for each contaminant type.
2Measurement precision
If current methods for detecting environmental contaminants are used, then detection accuracy can be maintained, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode strip is designed for simple drop-add detection where the user only needs to add a liquid or swab sample to the strip. The detection process occurs automatically through electrochemical measurements, eliminating the need for users to perform complex manual steps, handle specialized reagents, or operate sophisticated equipment. The system performs the detection function itself with minimal user intervention.
3Adaptability or versatility
If current methods for detecting environmental contaminants are used, then comprehensive contaminant detection is achieved, but productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode strip enables continuous and rapid detection by performing electrochemical measurements directly in the sample without requiring time-consuming intermediate steps. Multiple contaminants can be detected simultaneously in a single test, and the electrochemical readout provides rapid results, significantly improving detection throughput compared to traditional methods that require sequential analysis of different contaminant types.
4Measurement precision
If current methods for detecting environmental contaminants are used, then detection capability is maintained, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electrode strip is pre-functionalized with capture probes for multiple contaminant types before use, eliminating the need for time-consuming sample preparation, extraction, and purification steps that are required by traditional methods. The pre-prepared sensors are ready to detect contaminants directly in the sample, significantly reducing the time from sample collection to detection result while maintaining detection accuracy.
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
Enables rapid, efficient detection and quantification of various contaminants without complex equipment or multi-step processes, providing yes/no determinations or quantifiable measurements directly in samples, suitable for field use.
Implementation Method 1
multi-modal and multiplexed electrochemical detection and reporting of environmental contaminants
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of an apparatus are disclosed, the apparatus comprising: a substrate having a first end and an opposite, second end; a plurality of sensors proximate to the first end of the substrate, each sensor including: a first electrode; a second electrode at least partially surrounding the first electrode; and an active sensing element over the first electrode, a surface of the active sensing element being functionalized detect analytes in a sample derived from an environmental source; a plurality of contact pads proximate to the second end of the substrate, each contact pad being conductively coupled to the first electrode or the second electrode of a corresponding sensor in the plurality of sensors; and a cartridge surrounding the plurality of sensors and providing an enclosed space to contain the sample over the plurality of sensors.