Nucleic Acid Detection Device Flow Channel Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Nucleic acid detection devices using electrochemical responses face challenges in accurately detecting target nucleic acids due to background electrochemical responses from nucleic acid recognition body adsorption and flow channel curvature, which disrupts solution flow and reduces detection accuracy.
Innovation Solution
A nucleic acid detection device with a flow channel featuring curved and straight portions, where probe electrodes are arranged only along the straight portions, avoiding the curved sections to maintain stable solution flow and minimize background responses, with the distance between straight portions determined by the Reynolds number and flow channel dimensions to optimize nucleic acid hybridization conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If curved portions are formed midway along the flow channel to increase its length, then the flow channel can accommodate more probe electrodes, but the curve portions disorder the flow of solution and decrease detection accuracy
Solution Approach 1:
The flow channel is segmented into distinct functional zones: a curved portion for solution introduction and mixing, followed by a straight portion for stable electrochemical measurement. This segmentation allows the curved section to provide adequate channel length while the straight section maintains laminar flow for accurate detection, resolving the contradiction between channel length and measurement precision.
2Power
If the nucleic acid recognition body concentration is increased, then the electrochemical response caused by hybridization increases, but the background electrochemical response from adsorption also increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a specific buffer solution composition as an intermediary medium that optimizes the electrochemical detection environment. The buffer solution contains substances that enhance the hybridization signal while suppressing non-specific adsorption, thereby increasing the recognition body concentration and hybridization response without proportionally increasing background noise.
3Productivity
If probe electrodes are arranged along the entire flow channel including curved portions, then the number of detection points increases, but flow disorders in curved portions cause measurement variations
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the flow channel are assigned different functions: the curved portion is designed for solution introduction and initial mixing, while the straight portion is designated for stable electrochemical measurements. Probe electrodes are strategically positioned only in the straight portion where laminar flow conditions ensure consistent and reproducible measurements, avoiding the flow disorders present in curved sections.
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 design enhances detection accuracy by minimizing variations in measurement results caused by flow disorders, allowing for a downsized and cost-effective device with improved nucleic acid detection capabilities.
Implementation Method 1
a nucleic acid detection device used to a target nucleic acid detection utilizing the electrochemical response of a nucleic acid recognition body
Implementation Method 2
a sample nucleic acid is hybridized with a nucleic acid probe immobilized to the surface of an electrode
Implementation Method 3
a flow channel that allows a solution containing a nucleic acid recognition body to flow through it
Data Source
AI summary
A nucleic acid detection device includes a flow channel through which a solution containing a nucleic acid recognition body flows, probe electrodes having immobilized nucleic acid probes, and a counter electrode used to measure an electrochemical response of the nucleic acid recognition body. The flow channel includes a curved portion and a straight portion continued from and located downstream of the curved portion. The probe electrodes are arranged at intervals along the straight portion, avoiding an upstream end of the straight portion that is located within a distance L from the curved portion. The distance L is given by L=0.065×Re×D, Re=ρuD/μ, and D=4S/Lp where ρ, u, and μ are a concentration, a flow velocity, and a viscosity of the solution, and S and Lp are a sectional area and a wall peripheral perimeter of the flow channel, respectively.