Automated Nucleic Acid Isolation and Bisulfite Conversion System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for nucleic acid isolation and subsequent analysis are prone to contamination and require manual handling, which can introduce foreign substances and increase processing time, limiting the efficiency and accuracy of downstream analysis.
Innovation Solution
An automated single closed system for nucleic acid isolation and conversion/purification that integrates nucleic acid extraction and bisulfite conversion reactions, using magnetic beads and mineral oil to prevent contamination and reduce processing time, allowing for efficient preparation of nucleic acids for modification detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If manual handling and separate processing steps are used for nucleic acid isolation and conversion, then flexibility in protocol selection is maintained, but contamination risk increases and processing time extends
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines nucleic acid isolation and conversion reactions into a single closed system, merging previously separate manual steps into one integrated platform. This eliminates intermediate transfer steps that would introduce contamination risk while maintaining protocol flexibility through modular reagent cartridges.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a closed system with integrated reagent cartridges as intermediaries between sample input and analysis. These cartridges contain all necessary reagents for isolation and conversion, acting as controlled intermediaries that prevent contamination while enabling automated processing.
2Productivity
If multiple separate reactions are performed manually, then reagent selection flexibility is maintained, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-packaging all necessary reagents for nucleic acid isolation and conversion into sealed cartridges. This allows the system to automatically execute multiple reactions in sequence without manual intervention, significantly reducing processing time while simplifying user operation to simply loading the cartridge and initiating the program.
3Reliability
If automated single closed system is implemented, then contamination is prevented and processing time is reduced, but initial system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the complex automated system into modular components: separate reagent cartridges for isolation and conversion, a magnetic separation module, and a control system. This segmentation allows the complex functionality to be managed through standardized, interchangeable modules rather than a monolithic complex device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service automation where the system automatically performs nucleic acid isolation, conversion, and purification without manual intervention. The integrated control system autonomously manages reagent dispensing, temperature control, and magnetic separation, reducing the need for complex manual操作流程 while maintaining high reliability.
4Quantity of substance
If volume reduction is applied during processing, then sample concentration is improved, but precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual volume management with automated liquid handling and magnetic separation mechanisms. The system precisely controls reagent addition and sample processing volumes through automated pumps and magnetic field-based separation, achieving volume reduction without compromising measurement precision through mechanical rather than manual control.
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 automated system significantly reduces contamination risks, shortens processing time, and enhances the efficiency of nucleic acid analysis, making it suitable for various applications including PCR, sequencing, and disease detection.
Implementation Method 1
The automated system utilizes magnetic beads to facilitate nucleic acid isolation and purification
Implementation Method 2
the bisulfite conversion reagents have an over-layer of mineral oil
Data Source
AI summary
The present teachings relate to methods, kits and devices for performing automated sequential nucleic acid isolation and conversion/purification in a single closed system. In various embodiments, the present teaching enable a user to (i) load a device with test samples, reagents and consumables; (ii) select or program the device for the desired nucleic acid isolation and subsequent chemical treatment and/or conversion reaction(s) without further user intervention; and recovering the isolated and treated and/or converted nucleic acid at the conclusion of the program once the device is activated.