Nucleic Acid Capture Device for Field Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional methods for detecting nucleic acids in samples are lengthy, expensive, and require specialized equipment and skilled technicians, leading to delays of 24-48 hours for diagnostic results in field applications like aquaculture.
Innovation Solution
A nucleic acid capturing device with a nucleic acid binding agent is used, combined with a grinding device and a heating system, allowing for simplified extraction, purification, and analysis of nucleic acids without the need for laboratory equipment, enabling on-site processing by non-skilled personnel.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional laboratory methods are used for nucleic acid extraction and analysis, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The traditional laboratory process is segmented into portable, standalone functional modules: grinding device for sample preparation, capturing device with binding agent for nucleic acid extraction, and heating device for amplification. Each module performs a specific function independently, enabling field deployment while maintaining detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The capturing device is designed to be self-contained with integrated binding agents that automatically capture nucleic acids upon contact with the sample. The heating device autonomously performs amplification without requiring continuous laboratory intervention, enabling rapid on-site processing.
2Measurement precision
If traditional laboratory equipment is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The capturing device uses disposable components with pre-integrated binding agents that eliminate the need for skilled technicians to perform complex extraction procedures. The device is designed for single-use, ensuring reliability while simplifying operation for non-expert users in field settings.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional extraction kits are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but device complexity and loss of substance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The capturing device incorporates porous materials with high surface area to volume ratio that enhance nucleic acid binding capacity. The porous structure allows efficient capture of nucleic acids from the sample while minimizing loss, and the material can be optimized for specific nucleic acid types and concentrations.
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 enables rapid, cost-effective, and efficient extraction and analysis of nucleic acids, reducing the time and expense associated with traditional laboratory-based methods, allowing for timely diagnostic results in field environments.
Implementation Method 1
a nucleic acid capturing device adapted for dipping into a liquid wherein a portion of the device contacting the liquid comprises a nucleic acid binding agent
Implementation Method 2
a system for purification, analysis and/or detection of nucleic acid molecules comprising: (i) the nucleic acid capturing device as described herein; and (ii) a heating device
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to various components that make up a system for extracting, purification, analysis and/or detection of nucleic acid molecules. A first component comprises a nucleic acid capturing device adapted for dipping into a liquid wherein a portion of the device contacting the liquid comprises a nucleic acid binding agent. The nucleic acid binding agent may comprise silica (SiO2). The invention also includes a method for producing said nucleic acid capturing device. A second component comprises a grinding device comprising a mortar and pestle with the mortar comprising an upper portion and a base grinding portion. The grinding device enables efficient grinding in the base grinding portion and facilitates access to the addition of materials (e.g. fluids to the base grinding portion) when in use. A third component is an amplification device (e.g. a heating device for isothermal amplification).