Nanopore Sensor Array Isolation Using Bubbles and MEMS Valves
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nanopore sequencing arrays are susceptible to malfunctioning unit cells, which cause large current flows, affecting neighboring cells and depleting redox reagents, leading to inaccurate readings and inefficient operation.
Innovation Solution
Implementing components such as bubble generators and MEMS valves to isolate malfunctioning nanopore sensors by creating bubbles or blocking fluidic/ionic/electric flows, preventing the propagation of large currents and maintaining array functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a nanopore array uses common cis/trans wells for multiple unit cells, then the device complexity is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but a malfunctioning unit cell can cause large current flows that affect neighboring cells and deplete redox reagents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces fluidic isolation valves (e.g., MEMS valves) that can segment the common cis/trans wells into individual isolated chambers. When a malfunction is detected in a specific unit cell, the valves close to isolate that cell's nanopore from the common wells, preventing large currents from affecting other cells while maintaining the simplified common well architecture for normal operation.
2Productivity
If malfunctioning nanopore sensors are not isolated, then the array operates continuously without interruption, but large currents deplete redox reagents and cause inaccurate readings
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a monitoring system that continuously detects current levels in each unit cell. When a malfunction is detected (indicated by abnormally high current), the system automatically activates the fluidic isolation valves to close off the affected nanopore. This feedback mechanism allows the array to operate continuously with healthy cells while isolating and preventing reagent depletion in malfunctioning cells.
3Reliability
If fluidic isolation components are added to each nanopore unit cell, then malfunctioning cells can be isolated to prevent current propagation, but the device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal fluidic isolation valves (such as MEMS valves) that can be integrated into the common cis/trans well architecture. These multi-functional components serve both as normal fluidic pathways during healthy operation and as isolation barriers when malfunctions occur. By using standardized, commercially available MEMS valve technology, the patent minimizes the increase in device complexity while achieving reliable current flow control.
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
Effectively isolates malfunctioning nanopore sensors, preventing signal interference and reagent depletion, ensuring accurate sequencing results and efficient operation of the nanopore array.
Implementation Method 1
a component for generating a bubble sufficient to interrupt current flow between the cis electrode and the trans electrode
Implementation Method 2
the sensing electrode is configured to electrolyze the electrolyte to generate the bubble when the switch is positioned to connect the voltage source to the sensing electrode
Implementation Method 3
a heating element positioned to heat the electrolyte to generate the bubble
Implementation Method 4
a valve configured to block a fluidic connection within the device
Data Source
AI summary
Devices for sequencing biopolymers and methods of using the devices are disclosed. In one example, such a device has a nanopore, a plurality of wells and fluidic tunnels to allow a biopolymer to translocate in the device. In some embodiments, the device may include integrated electronics or micro-electromechanical systems, such as valves, bubble generators/annihilators or pressure pulse generators, to actively control fluidic/ionic/electric flows in the device.