Neonatal Mouse Buccal Sampling Tool With Segmented Handle
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample collection methods for neonatal mice are invasive, painful, and lack standardization, making it difficult to obtain reproducible and high-quality biomolecules for genetic analysis, and existing tools are not adaptable for small subjects like neonatal mice.
Innovation Solution
A sample collection tool with a collection end featuring a plurality of raised sampling elements, such as protuberances or ridges, designed to fit within body cavities without causing discomfort, and a detachable handle portion that allows for easy sample transfer to a receptacle containing a stabilizing solution, facilitating non-invasive and reproducible sample collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional swabs or brushes are used for sample collection, then the collection process is simple, but the sample quality and yield vary broadly and reproducibility is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device is segmented into distinct functional zones: a collection end with raised sampling elements for gathering cells, a shaft for structural support, and a handle for manipulation. This segmentation allows each part to be optimized for its specific function, improving overall sample collection reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The collection end features raised sampling elements with increased surface area concentrated at the tip, creating local quality enhancement where it is most needed for cell collection. This localized design improves sample yield without requiring complex devices throughout the entire structure.
2Quantity of substance
If invasive methods like toe or tail amputation are used, then sufficient DNA can be obtained, but the animals experience pain and stress
Solution Approach 1:
The raised sampling elements act as an intermediary mechanism that collects buccal cells from the cheek without requiring invasive procedures. This intermediary approach provides sufficient DNA yield while avoiding direct tissue damage and the associated pain and stress.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention replaces the mechanical trauma of amputation with a gentle mechanical collection method using raised elements that scrape or roll across the buccal mucosa to collect cells, substituting a harmful mechanical system with a benign one.
3Area of moving object
If human-sized buccal collection tools are used, then adequate surface area is available for sampling, but the tools are too large for neonatal mice and may cause suffocation
Solution Approach 1:
The collection device parameters (size, surface area of sampling elements) are specifically changed to suit neonatal mice. The raised sampling elements provide adequate collection surface area while the overall device dimensions are reduced to fit the small oral cavity of neonatal mice, preventing suffocation.
4Adaptability or versatility
If cotton swabs are used for neonatal mice, then the size is appropriate, but they cannot collect sufficient buccal cells for analysis
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling surface area is locally enhanced through raised elements concentrated at the collection tip. This creates zones of increased surface area and cell contact capability, allowing sufficient buccal cell collection from neonatal mice while maintaining overall device compactness.
Data Source
AI summary
A sample collection tool comprises a collection end configured for collecting a sample. Optionally, the sample is collected from within a body cavity of an animal without causing significant discomfort or injury to the animal. A first handle portion has a first end connected to the collection end and a second end. A second handle portion is connected to the second end of the first handle portion by a breakable connection. The second end of the first handle portion has at least one winglet. The at least one winglet is compliant in a preferential direction. The breakable connection is ruptured at least in part when the at least one winglet is forced in the preferential direction.