Nanochannel Measurement Chamber Layout for Nanopore Signal Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Nanopore sequencing technologies face challenges in accurately detecting small current changes caused by biopolymers due to their low amplitude, leading to reduced measurement accuracy.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and device with a nanochannel structure connecting a measurement chamber and an outlet chamber, featuring a height difference less than 20 μm, and a sensing component to enhance electrical signal detection by reducing parasitic capacitance and improving signal bandwidth.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional nanopore sequencing is used, then biopolymer identification is achieved, but measurement accuracy is low due to small current changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary nanochannel structure with specific geometric parameters (length 1-1000 μm, cross-sectional area 1-1000 μm²) that mediates between the measurement chamber and reference chamber. This nanochannel acts as a capacitance-reducing intermediary that amplifies the electrical signal from biopolymer translocation, converting the difficult-to-detect small current changes into larger, more measurable signals while maintaining the core nanopore sequencing function.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by optimizing the nanochannel's physical dimensions (length, cross-sectional area) and electrical properties to reduce parasitic capacitance. By carefully controlling these parameters, the system transforms the electrical signal characteristics to improve detectability without altering the fundamental nanopore sequencing mechanism.
2Reliability
If signal amplification is implemented, then electrical signal strength is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and isolates the capacitance-reducing function into a dedicated nanochannel structure, separating this signal-enhancement function from the main nanopore sequencing apparatus. This extraction allows for targeted optimization of the nanochannel's electrical properties without complicating the overall device architecture, as the nanochannel operates as a distinct, well-defined component with specific geometric parameters.
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
Enhances the accuracy and speed of biopolymer characterization by improving the strength and interpretation of electrical signals, facilitating efficient polynucleotide and polypeptide sequencing.
Implementation Method 1
improving the strength and interpretation of electrical signals, facilitating efficient polynucleotide and polypeptide sequencing
Data Source
AI summary
The present application discloses an apparatus and a device for sensing an analyte contained in liquid. The apparatus provided by the present application includes a liquid flow structure component and a sensing component. The liquid flow structure component includes: a measurement chamber configured to receive the analyte to be sensed, and wherein a sensible electrical signal is generated when the analyte to be sensed enters the measurement chamber along a first direction; an outlet chamber in fluid connection with the measurement chamber; and a nanochannel including a first opening connecting with the measurement chamber and a second opening connecting with the outlet chamber, wherein a height difference between the first opening and the second opening of the nanochannel in the first direction is less than 20 μm. The sensing component is coupled to the measurement chamber to sense the electrical signal.