Multiplexed Functional Ligand Arrays for Target Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for selecting and utilizing functional ligands, such as aptamers, are limited in their ability to detect and quantify target molecules in a multiplexed manner, particularly in identifying structural changes and binding activities across various environments and conditions.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a collection of functional ligands, where structural changes upon binding to target molecules are detectable through indicators, allowing for the detection of binding events and the presence of target molecules, utilizing techniques like microscale thermophoresis, backscattering interferometry, and fluorescence changes, with the ligands being arrayed or tagged for precise location determination.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional SELEX methods are used to select aptamers, then specific binding activity is achieved, but the ability to detect and quantify multiple target molecules simultaneously is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention divides the detection system into spatially separated array elements, with each element containing a functional ligand and associated indicator. This segmentation enables simultaneous detection of multiple target molecules across different array locations, achieving multiplexed detection without requiring a single complex detection mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention creates a universal detection platform where functional ligands can be selectively activated or deactivated based on target presence. The system uses a common indicator mechanism that responds to multiple different ligand-target interactions, allowing one detection system to serve multiple functions for detecting various target molecules.
2Measurement precision
If structural changes of functional ligands are monitored to detect binding events, then binding activity is identified, but precise quantification of target molecules becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The invention introduces an indicator as an intermediary that translates difficult-to-measure structural changes of functional ligands into easily detectable signals. The indicator responds to conformational changes, binding events, or presence of target molecules, converting subtle structural variations into measurable optical, electrical, or other detectable signals for precise quantification.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention utilizes optical signal changes, including color, fluorescence, or other electromagnetic radiation changes, as indicators of binding events. These optical changes provide a direct, quantifiable measure of target molecule presence and concentration, transforming difficult structural measurements into precise optical readings.
3Loss of information
If functional ligands are arrayed in spatial arrangements for multiplexed detection, then location determination is enabled, but the complexity of correlating signals with specific ligands increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention creates a spatial map or copy of the array configuration that records which functional ligand is present at each location. This information copy enables correlation of detection signals with specific ligands without requiring complex real-time tracking, as the ligand-location relationships are pre-documented and can be referenced during data analysis.
4Reliability
If multiple detection techniques are employed to identify binding events, then detection reliability is improved, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention combines multiple detection capabilities into a single integrated array system where functional ligands and indicators work together to provide reliable detection. By merging the ligand binding function with the indicator signaling function in each array element, the system achieves high reliability through multiple detection mechanisms while maintaining operational simplicity through unified system design.
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 efficient detection and quantification of target molecules by correlating structural changes with binding events, allowing for the identification of specific ligands and their target molecules, and determining the concentration of target molecules in samples.
Implementation Method 1
detecting possible binding activity between at least one member of the collection and the at least one target molecule by detecting a structural change in the at least one member
Implementation Method 2
utilizing techniques like microscale thermophoresis, backscattering interferometry, and fluorescence changes
Implementation Method 3
utilizing techniques like microscale thermophoresis, backscattering interferometry, and fluorescence changes
Implementation Method 4
utilizing techniques like microscale thermophoresis, backscattering interferometry, and fluorescence changes
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to methods and materials for multiplexed utilization of collections of functional ligands, particularly to methods and materials for selecting for and/or utilizing particular desirable traits of functional ligands in a multiplexed manner, and more particularly to methods and materials for selecting for and/or utilizing particular structural changes of functional ligands in a multiplexed manner.