Nanopore Endotoxin Detection via Ion Current Monitoring
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional endotoxin detection methods using LAL reagents are expensive and time-consuming, requiring significant time for detection.
Innovation Solution
An endotoxin detection device comprising a vessel with two compartments connected by a nanopore, electrodes, and a mechanism to apply voltage and monitor current, allowing for rapid detection without expensive reagents by measuring changes in ion current caused by endotoxin micelles passing through the nanopore.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If LAL reagent is used for endotoxin detection, then detection sensitivity is improved, but detection cost increases and detection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and detects only the endotoxin component directly from the sample using a nanopore sensor, eliminating the need for LAL reagent extraction and reaction steps. The nanopore directly senses endotoxin micelles as they pass through, achieving rapid detection without the time-consuming reagent-based extraction process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the biochemical reaction system (LAL reagent chemistry) with a physical sensing system (electrical current measurement through nanopore). Instead of relying on chemical reactions between LAL reagent and endotoxin, the system uses electrical properties to detect endotoxin micelles, dramatically reducing detection time while maintaining sensitivity.
2Measurement precision
If LAL reagent is used for endotoxin detection, then detection sensitivity is improved, but reagent cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive LAL reagent with a disposable nanopore sensor that can be used once and then discarded. The nanopore sensor itself is relatively inexpensive compared to LAL reagent, and its single-use nature eliminates the need for expensive reagent storage, handling, and disposal while maintaining detection sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the detection function from the expensive LAL reagent system and implements it directly in the nanopore sensor, eliminating the need for LAL reagent entirely. This extraction of the core detection capability allows using cheaper alternative materials for the sensor while achieving the same detection sensitivity.
3Measurement precision
If conventional LAL method is used, then detection accuracy is maintained, but detection process becomes complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection process into a single integrated nanopore sensing step, eliminating the multiple sequential steps required by LAL methods (reagent preparation, incubation, reaction, reading). This segmentation into one direct measurement step simplifies the overall process while maintaining accuracy through precise electrical measurement of endotoxin micelle passage.
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 rapid and cost-effective detection of endotoxin, reducing detection time and eliminating the need for expensive reagents while maintaining high sensitivity.
Implementation Method 1
a partitioning member that partitions the region into two compartments such that the two compartments are in communication via a nanopore
Implementation Method 2
an application means that applies voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode; and a monitoring means that monitors current
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a device and a method for rapidly and simply detecting endotoxin without using an expensive reagent. The endotoxin detection device includes: a region containing an electrolyte solution; a partitioning member that partitions the region into two compartments such that the two compartments are in communication via a nanopore; a first electrode that is disposed in a first compartment; a second electrode that is disposed in a second compartment and is electrically connected to the first electrode; an electrolyte solution flow generating means that causes electrolyte solution in the first compartment to move to the second compartment via the nanopore; an application means that applies voltage between the first electrode and the second electrode; and a monitoring means that monitors current.