Nanopore Translocation Device with Inner and Outer Electrodes
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current nanopore translocation-based DNA sequencing technologies face challenges in achieving nanometer-scale spatial accuracy and signal-to-noise ratio due to low resolution in ionic current detection, leading to difficulties in regulating DNA translocation velocities and throughput.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a nanoparticle translocation device with a combination of floating and biased electrode portions, which utilize induced-charge electro-osmotic (ICEO) and electro-osmotic (EOF) flows to actively regulate DNA translocation through the nanopore, providing passive and active control mechanisms to slow down or trap particles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If methods to slow down DNA translocation through the nanopore are used (modifying viscosity, temperature, and voltage bias), then translocation velocity is reduced, but signal to noise ratio decreases making detection difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically modifying multiple physical parameters (viscosity, temperature, voltage bias) to control DNA translocation velocity. This resolves the contradiction by finding optimal parameter combinations that slow translocation while maintaining adequate signal-to-noise ratio for detection.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic control of translocation conditions by adjusting parameters in real-time during the sequencing process. This allows the system to adaptively manage the trade-off between translocation speed and signal quality, optimizing both metrics throughout the analysis.
2Speed
If methods to slow down DNA translocation are used, then translocation velocity is reduced, but DNA attraction to the nanopore decreases lowering throughput
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses parameter changes to independently control translocation velocity and attraction forces. By adjusting voltage bias and other parameters, the system can slow DNA movement through the pore while maintaining sufficient electrostatic attraction to keep throughput high, resolving the contradiction between speed control and productivity.
3Ease of operation
If additional equipment or electrolyte adjustments are made to improve translocation control, then translocation regulation is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent achieves enhanced translocation control through parameter changes of existing system components rather than adding new equipment. By optimizing voltage bias, temperature, and viscosity parameters, the system improves control capability while avoiding the complexity increase that would result from additional hardware or electrolyte modification systems.
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
This approach enhances the precision and control of DNA translocation, improving the signal-to-noise ratio and throughput by adjusting the ICEO and EOF flows, allowing for more accurate sequencing and potential multiple analyses of DNA nanoparticles.
Implementation Method 1
a DC voltage is imposed across a nanopore submerged in an aqueous electrolyte, resulting in an ionic current through the nanopore and electrophoresis of the DNA through the nanopore
Implementation Method 2
one or more inner electrode portions on an inner wall of the nanopore, one or more outer electrode portions disposed on an outer wall of the nanopore
Implementation Method 3
utilize induced-charge electro-osmotic (ICEO) and electro-osmotic (EOF) flows to actively regulate DNA translocation through the nanopore
Data Source
AI summary
A nanoparticle translocation device includes a first reservoir having a first reservoir electrode, a second reservoir having a second reservoir electrode, and at least one nanopore providing fluid communication between the first and second reservoirs. The device also includes one or more inner electrode portions on an inner wall of the nanopore and one or more outer electrode portions disposed on an outer wall of the nanopore. The device further includes at least one DC voltage supply for selectively applying a DC voltage to each of the first reservoir electrode, the second reservoir electrode, and the outer electrode layer, where the inner electrode portions, the outer electrode portions, and the nanopore are in a substantially coaxial arrangement.