Nanoparticle-Aptamer Biosensor for Rapid Small Molecule Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional methods for detecting small molecules, such as endocrine disrupting compounds and hormones, are time-consuming, require specialized equipment, and cannot be performed on-site, necessitating a rapid and convenient detection method.

Innovation Solution

The development of nanoparticle-aptamer-conjugates (NP-aptamer) that couple nanoparticles with aptamers specific to small molecules, allowing for detection through changes in size, surface potential, and mobility using techniques like dynamic light scattering or Resistive Pulse Sensing.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If conventional methods like HPLC or GCMS are used for detection, then measurement precision is improved, but analysis time increases and device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidanalysis time

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical separation systems (HPLC/GCMS) with a biochemical recognition system using aptamers that specifically bind to target molecules. This substitution enables rapid detection without requiring complex mechanical separation and detection equipment, thereby reducing analysis time while maintaining detection capability.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and utilizes the specific binding capability of aptamers for target molecules, isolating this functional element from the complex conventional analysis systems. By focusing on the specific aptamer-target interaction, the method achieves rapid detection without the time-consuming steps of sample preparation, separation, and complex detection required by conventional methods.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Measurement precision

If conventional methods like HPLC or GCMS are used for detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidequipment requirements

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces complex mechanical separation and detection systems (HPLC/GCMS equipment) with a simplified biochemical assay system based on aptamer-target binding. This substitution eliminates the need for specialized expensive equipment while maintaining detection functionality, thereby reducing device complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent uses aptamers as simplified copies or alternatives to complex analytical instruments. The aptamer-based detection system replicates the essential function of detecting target molecules without requiring the complex mechanical and electronic systems of conventional instruments, making the detection process accessible with simpler equipment.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #26Copying

3Measurement precision

If conventional methods are used for detection, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoidoperator training required

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces operationally complex mechanical systems requiring specialized training with a simple biochemical binding assay. The aptamer-target interaction is inherently simple to perform, requiring minimal operator intervention and training, thereby improving ease of operation while maintaining detection accuracy.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The aptamer-based detection system is designed to be self-indicating through measurable changes in the aptamer-target complex properties. The system performs detection automatically through the intrinsic binding characteristics of aptamers, reducing the need for complex operator procedures and specialized skills.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

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 quick and sensitive detection of small molecules at low concentrations, including environmental pollutants, with analysis times significantly shorter than traditional methods, facilitating on-site assessments.

Implementation Method 1

capable of undergoing conformational changes upon binding to a target substrate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectAptamer conformational change:

Implementation Method 2

detecting a change in the size, surface potential, and/or mobility of the NP-aptamer conjugate

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectLight scattering: Scattering

Data Source

PatentUS10023869B2Bio-sensor for the detection of small molecules

Publication Date: 2018.07.17 BIOGENES TECH SDN BHD

AI summary

This present invention provides methods for the detection of small molecules in samples comprising the steps a) coupling a nanoparticle (NP) or microparticle (MP) to an aptamer specific for the small molecule to be detected to form a NP-aptamer conjugate b) contacting the NP-aptamer conjugate with the sample; and c) detecting a change in the size, surface potential, or mobility of the NP-aptamer conjugate, wherein the change is indicative of the presence of the small molecule. The present invention also provides for and a biosensor comprising nanoparticles coupled to aptamers to provide nanoparticle aptamer-conjugates (NP-aptamer).