Nanopore Array Circuit Design for Independent Bias Voltage Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nanopore nucleic acid sequencing techniques require applying different bias voltages to various unit cells in an array, necessitating the ability to divide the array into subgroups and independently change the mode of operation for each nanopore unit cell.
Innovation Solution
A circuit design that allows for the application of different bias voltages to different unit cells or subgroups of nanopore unit cells, incorporating a memory cell to store the state of each nanopore unit cell and control its mode of operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If different bias voltages are applied to different unit cells in a nanopore array, then the sequencing accuracy and data rate are improved, but the device complexity and circuit design difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The nanopore array is divided into multiple independently controllable unit cells, each capable of receiving different bias voltages. This segmentation allows precise control over individual nanopores while maintaining modular scalability, resolving the contradiction between measurement precision and device complexity by enabling independent optimization of each unit.
Solution Approach 2:
Different bias voltages are applied to different unit cells based on their specific operational requirements. This local quality approach allows each nanopore to operate under optimal conditions tailored to its specific sequencing task, improving overall sequencing accuracy without requiring complete redesign of the entire array.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the nanopore array is divided into subgroups with different modes of operation, then the versatility and adaptability of the sequencing system are improved, but the control circuit complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically switches between different operational modes (sequencing, cleaning, blocking detection) by controlling the bias voltage applied to each unit cell. This dynamic control allows the same hardware to perform multiple functions, improving versatility without requiring separate dedicated circuits for each mode.
Solution Approach 2:
Each unit cell is designed with universal control capabilities that allow it to operate in multiple modes (sequencing, cleaning, blocking detection) by simply changing the bias voltage parameters. This multi-functionality reduces the need for specialized circuits for each operation, thereby controlling complexity while enhancing adaptability.
3Ease of operation
If memory cells are added to each nanopore unit cell to store operational state, then the independent control capability is improved, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
Memory cells are integrated within each nanopore unit cell structure, with the memory functionality nested inside the operational circuitry. This nested design allows the memory and control functions to share the same physical space and manufacturing processes, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining independent control capability.
4Productivity
If higher bias voltages are applied to increase data rate, then the sequencing speed is improved, but the risk of nanopore damage and signal distortion increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system uses periodic pulsing of bias voltages during the sequencing process, alternating between higher voltages (for fast sequencing) and lower voltages (for stability and resetting). This periodic action allows the system to achieve high data rates during sequencing phases while maintaining nanopore stability during interleaved phases, effectively resolving the contradiction between productivity and reliability.
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 precise control over the sequencing process, allowing for higher accuracy and efficiency in polynucleotide sequencing by independently managing the operation of each nanopore unit cell, thereby improving data rate and base-calling accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
nanopore, which can provide a path for an ionic electrical current
Implementation Method 2
as the polynucleotide traverses through the nanopore, it influences the electrical current through the nanopore
Data Source
AI summary
In one aspect, the disclosed technology relates to systems and methods for sequencing polynucleotides. In one embodiment, the disclosed system for sequencing polynucleotides includes: a sequencing cell comprising a nanopore for sensing a polynucleotide; an electronic circuit configured to measure an electrical response in the sequencing cell, the electronic circuit comprising an operational amplifier; and a memory unit configured to store a state of the sequencing cell.