Automated Nucleic Acid Extraction and PCR System
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for detecting and quantifying DNA and RNA in food and water samples are inefficient, lacking in sensitivity and cost-effectiveness, and require manual handling, which is not suitable for rapid industrial analysis, especially for identifying pathogenic agents and GMOs.
Innovation Solution
An automated device for extracting, purifying, and amplifying nucleic acids using a real-time thermal cycler with a transfer member, separator, homogenizer, and sealer, which includes a pipettor and magnetic separation system, enabling automated processing and detection through fluorescence analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual handling methods are used for nucleic acid extraction and detection, then operational flexibility is maintained, but processing speed and productivity are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The automated device is divided into distinct functional modules: a transfer member for sample handling, a separator for nucleic acid isolation, a homogenizer for mixture uniformity, a sealer for containment, and a real-time thermal cycler for amplification. Each module performs a specific function autonomously, enabling high-speed processing while maintaining operational clarity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs self-contained operations where the transfer member automatically transfers samples, the separator autonomously isolates nucleic acids, the homogenizer self-regulates mixing, and the thermal cycler independently conducts PCR cycles. This self-service capability eliminates manual intervention while maintaining precise control over each processing step.
2Productivity
If rapid industrial analysis is implemented, then detection speed is improved, but sensitivity and accuracy may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The automated system maintains continuous processing without interruption - the transfer member continuously transfers samples, the separator continuously isolates nucleic acids, and the thermal cycler continuously monitors amplification in real-time. This continuous operation enables rapid detection while maintaining high sensitivity through uninterrupted processing and real-time monitoring.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual mechanical operations are replaced with automated mechanical systems controlled by precise programming. The transfer member uses automated pipetting mechanisms, the separator employs controlled magnetic or centrifugal forces, and the thermal cycler uses programmable temperature control. This substitution maintains measurement precision while dramatically increasing detection speed.
3Ease of manufacture
If automated processing is implemented, then labor costs are reduced, but initial device investment increases
Solution Approach 1:
The automated device is designed as a universal platform that can process multiple sample types and detect various nucleic acid targets through a single integrated system. The transfer member, separator, homogenizer, and thermal cycler can be configured for different applications, eliminating the need for multiple separate devices and reducing overall investment while maintaining high processing efficiency.
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 enables rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective detection and quantification of nucleic acids in various samples, facilitating the identification of pathogenic agents and GMOs, improving food safety by automating the analysis process.
Implementation Method 1
at least one real-time thermal cycler; the real-time thermal cycler is configured to allow a polymerase chain reaction
Implementation Method 2
at least one separator; the separator is configured to separate the targets to be detected and/or to be assayed in the sample
Implementation Method 3
at least one homogenizer; the homogenizer is configured to homogenize the targets to be detected and/or to be assayed in a homogenizing liquid
Implementation Method 4
the real-time thermal cycler is configured to allow the detection of the nucleic acid(s)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2~3
Figure 4~5
AI summary
The present invention relates to an industrial process for the extraction, purification by separation, and amplification of nucleic acids from living organisms, pathogenic or non-pathogenic, in a matrix. The invention also relates to a fully automated process and device (100) for the extraction, purification by separation, and amplification of nucleic acids from the target organisms, enabling their detection and/or quantification.