Nanopore Target Detection Through Polymer-Scaffold Current Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting nano-scale and micro-scale particles and molecules, such as circulating tumor cells and pathogens, are labor-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive, lacking the ability to provide accurate results quickly and easily.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a polymer scaffold bound to a fusion molecule, which is passed through a nanopore device, utilizing a sensor to detect the binding of the target molecule by analyzing current changes as the fusion molecule translocates through the pore, allowing for rapid and sensitive detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If current detection methods (immunohistochemistry, nucleic acid-based detection) are used, then detection accuracy can be achieved, but the process becomes labor-intensive, time-consuming, and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual, mechanical detection procedures with an automated nanopore-based electrical detection system. The sensor detects target molecules through ionic current changes as polymers translocate through the nanopore, eliminating the need for manual immunohistochemistry or nucleic acid processing steps, thereby achieving both high accuracy and rapid throughput
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces charged polymers as intermediary carriers that bind to target molecules and facilitate their detection through the nanopore sensor. These polymers act as mediators that convert the presence of target molecules into measurable electrical signals, enabling rapid and accurate detection without direct manual intervention
2Reliability
If current detection methods are used, then detection can be performed, but the process becomes skill-intensive and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The nanopore detection system performs self-service by automatically detecting target molecules through ionic current measurements. The system requires minimal human intervention beyond sample preparation and instrument operation, as the sensor autonomously identifies target presence based on electrical signal changes, making the process accessible without specialized technical skills
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex manual detection procedures with an automated electrical sensing system. The nanopore sensor inherently provides detection capability through physical-chemical interactions, eliminating the need for skilled manual manipulation of reagents and equipment while maintaining reliable detection results
3Productivity
If polymer scaffold with fusion molecule is used for detection, then rapid and sensitive detection is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The nanopore sensor serves multiple functions: it detects the presence of target molecules, quantifies their concentration, and can potentially identify different types of targets by analyzing ionic current patterns. This multi-functionality is achieved through a single integrated device platform, managing complexity while enhancing productivity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes changes in ionic current parameters (amplitude, duration, pattern) as the polymer-translocation complex passes through the nanopore. By monitoring these electrical parameter variations, the system achieves rapid and sensitive detection without requiring complex mechanical or optical subsystems
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, sensitive, and cost-effective detection of target molecules and particles by differentiating binding states through current variations, facilitating accurate identification and quantitation with potential for multiplexed analysis.
Implementation Method 1
The nanopore sensor works by measuring the ionic current that flows across the nanopore. When a molecule passes through the nanopore, it partially blocks the current, and the degree of blockage provides information about the molecule's properties.
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are methods and compositions for detecting a target molecule or particle suspected to be present in a sample using a polymer scaffold, a fusion molecule, and a pore.