Multiplexed Nucleic Acid Detection via Hybridization Temperature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing point-of-care systems for analyzing biological samples are not efficient, rapid, or cost-effective for detecting multiple analytes simultaneously, particularly in determining diseases and pathogens.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that bond nucleic-acid sequences to capture molecules at different hybridization temperatures within a single sensor apparatus, allowing for simultaneous detection of multiple analytes through a common detection process using a microfluidic cartridge with PCR chambers for amplification and temperature control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple analytes are detected using separate sensor apparatus or multiple detection processes, then detection accuracy for each analyte is improved, but device complexity and testing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple capture molecules with different hybridization temperatures into a single sensor apparatus. The sensor surface is functionalized with multiple types of capture molecules that can simultaneously bind different analytes, allowing multiplexed detection in one device rather than requiring separate apparatus for each analyte type.
Solution Approach 2:
The single sensor apparatus is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating universal capture molecules that can bind to various analyte types. The sensor surface serves as a platform for detecting multiple analytes through a common detection process, making the device multi-functional rather than specialized for a single analyte.
2Reliability
If multiple analytes are detected through sequential testing processes, then detection reliability is improved, but testing time and productivity decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple sequential detection processes into a single parallel detection process. By placing different capture molecules on the same sensor surface, multiple analytes are detected simultaneously in one operation rather than through sequential testing, thereby improving productivity while maintaining reliability through a unified detection protocol.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection process operates continuously by binding multiple analytes to capture molecules on the sensor surface simultaneously. The microfluidic system continuously flows samples through the sensor apparatus, enabling uninterrupted detection of multiple analytes in a single continuous process rather than intermittent sequential testing.
3Measurement precision
If different hybridization temperatures are used for different analytes, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and process time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor apparatus incorporates temperature control that can dynamically adjust hybridization conditions. Different regions of the sensor surface or different time points during the detection process use optimized hybridization temperatures for specific analyte-capture molecule pairs, allowing precise binding while maintaining a single integrated detection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the hybridization temperature parameter to optimize binding specificity for different analytes. By adjusting temperature as a variable parameter during the detection process, the system achieves high-specificity binding for multiple analyte types without requiring separate apparatus, as each analyte can be detected at its optimal temperature within the same sensor platform.
4Productivity
If a single sensor apparatus detects multiple analytes, then productivity and cost-effectiveness are improved, but measurement precision may deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor apparatus is designed with spatially differentiated capture molecules positioned at specific locations on the sensor surface. Each region or zone on the sensor is functionalized with capture molecules optimized for specific analytes, allowing local optimization of binding conditions while maintaining overall multiplexed detection capability in a single apparatus.
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
Enables rapid, efficient, and cost-effective testing of multiple analytes by optimizing hybridization temperatures for capture molecules, facilitating high specificity and compact detection within a single sensor compartment.
Implementation Method 1
bonding the different nucleic-acid sequences and/or products of a sample to corresponding capture molecules at different hybridisation temperatures
Implementation Method 2
The cartridge and/or the fluid system preferably comprises a plurality of channels and/or valves
Implementation Method 3
The fluid system is preferably not based on capillary forces, or is not exclusively based on said forces, but in particular is essentially based on the effects of gravity and/or pumping forces and/or compressive forces and/or suction forces
Implementation Method 4
The analysis device preferably comprises one or more temperature-control apparatuses (204)
Implementation Method 5
the apparatus being calibrated by means of a calibration liquid and then being used to test the sample
Data Source
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AI summary
A method and an analysis system for testing an in particular biological sample are proposed, nucleic-acid products being hybridised to capture molecules of a sensor apparatus at different temperatures.