NMR Analyte Detection Device Using Micro-Well Arrays
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic systems, particularly those using classical NMR techniques with magnetic nanosensors, are bulky, expensive, and not suited for portable or point-of-care applications due to their large size and high cost, lacking the sensitivity and adaptability for multiple analyte detection.
Innovation Solution
A compact, integrated NMR-based analyte detection device with superparamagnetic nanosensors, featuring an array of micro wells surrounded by tiny RF coils, utilizing rare earth magnets and customized nanoparticles to enhance sensitivity and precision, allowing for detection of analytes at low concentrations and multiple analyte detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If classical NMR techniques with magnetic nanosensors are used, then detection sensitivity is improved, but device size and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into multiple micro-wells (e.g., 96-well or 384-well formats) that can be independently processed, allowing parallel detection of multiple analytes. Each well contains magnetic nanosensors that can be functionalized with different binding moieties, enabling multiplexed detection while maintaining compact device footprint.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs parameter changes by utilizing different magnetic nanoparticle sizes, coatings, and binding moieties to detect various analytes. The system can switch between detecting different target molecules by changing the functionalization parameters of the nanosensors, allowing a single compact device to perform multiple detection functions.
2Measurement precision
If classical NMR techniques with magnetic nanosensors are used, then detection sensitivity is improved, but device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device achieves universality by using a standardized micro-well plate format that can detect multiple types of analytes (proteins, DNA, small molecules) through different functionalized nanosensors. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate specialized devices for each analyte type, reducing overall system cost while maintaining high detection sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses magnetic nanosensors that can be replicated and functionalized with different binding moieties to create multiple detection channels. Instead of requiring unique expensive components for each detection target, the system copies the same sensor platform and modifies its surface chemistry, significantly reducing manufacturing costs while preserving sensitivity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If magnetic nanosensors self-assemble or disperse in the presence of target analyte, then analyte detection capability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic nanosensors perform self-service by automatically self-assembling or dispersing in response to target analyte presence without requiring external control mechanisms. This self-directed behavior simplifies the device architecture, as the detection process is driven by the intrinsic properties of the nanosensors rather than complex external actuation 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
The device provides high sensitivity and precision for detecting a wide range of analytes, including biologically active substances, at low concentrations, making it suitable for portable and point-of-care diagnostics, and enabling continuous monitoring of biological species.
Implementation Method 1
Upon target binding, these nanosensors cause changes in the spin-spin relaxation times of neighboring water molecules (or any solvent molecule with free hydrogens) of a sample, which can be detected by classical magnetic resonance (NMR/MRI) techniques
Implementation Method 2
magnetic nanosensors are superparamagnetic nanoparticles that bind or otherwise link to their intended molecular target to form clusters (aggregates) or nanoassemblies
Implementation Method 3
an array of micro wells, each surrounded by a tiny radio frequency (RF) coil that detects an echo response produced by exposing the liquid sample in the well to a bias magnetic field and RF excitation
Implementation Method 4
detects an echo response produced by exposing the liquid sample in the well to a bias magnetic field and RF excitation
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates generally to detection devices having one or more small wells each surrounded by, or in close proximity to, an NMR micro coil, each well containing a liquid sample with magnetic nanoparticles that self-assemble or disperse in the presence of a target analyte, thereby altering the measured NMR properties of the liquid sample. The device may be used, for example, as a portable unit for point of care diagnosis and/or field use, or the device may be implanted for continuous or intermittent monitoring of one or more biological species of interest in a patient.