Integrated Nucleic Acid Testing Modules for Parallel PCR Workflow
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current in vitro diagnostic analyses are bottlenecked by the need for expensive, specialized equipment that is not available on-demand and requires sample transportation, leading to delays and inefficiencies in processing time.
Innovation Solution
A diagnostic apparatus that simultaneously extracts and amplifies nucleic acids from multiple samples using a module with racks, magnetic separators, heaters, and liquid dispensers, and includes a module for real-time PCR and detection systems, enabling high-throughput analysis at the point of care.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If specialized equipment is used for nucleic acid testing, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the nucleic acid testing process into separate functional modules: a first module for nucleic acid extraction from multiple samples, and a second module for PCR amplification and detection. Each module performs a specific function, allowing the complex testing process to be broken down into manageable, specialized components that can be operated independently.
Solution Approach 2:
The apparatus is designed to handle multiple samples simultaneously through parallel processing capabilities. The first module can extract nucleic acids from multiple samples in parallel, and the second module can amplify and detect multiple samples concurrently, making the system universally applicable to various diagnostic needs without requiring separate specialized equipment for each sample.
2Productivity
If batch processing is used, then productivity is improved, but loss of time increases due to waiting for machine availability
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables continuous processing of samples through parallel operations. While one set of samples is being processed in the first module for extraction, another set can be processed simultaneously, and the second module continuously performs PCR amplification and detection. This eliminates idle waiting time between batches and maintains continuous productive action.
Solution Approach 2:
The first module performs preliminary nucleic acid extraction from multiple samples before they enter the second module for PCR amplification. This preliminary preparation of multiple samples in parallel ensures that when samples reach the amplification stage, they are ready for immediate processing, reducing waiting time and enabling smoother continuous operation.
3Measurement precision
If sample transportation to specialized facilities is required, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time and loss of substance increase
Solution Approach 1:
The apparatus is designed to perform all nucleic acid testing operations—extraction, amplification, and detection—within a single integrated system at the point of care. This self-contained capability eliminates the need to transport samples to external specialized facilities, allowing the system to serve itself and maintain diagnostic accuracy without transportation-related delays or sample degradation.
4Productivity
If automated liquid handling is used, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The liquid handling automation is segmented into specific functions: the liquid dispenser handles reagent distribution to multiple samples, the magnetic separator performs nucleic acid isolation, and the heater assembly conducts thermal cycling for PCR. By dividing automation into these discrete, specialized components rather than a single complex automated system, the patent achieves high productivity while managing device complexity through functional modularity.
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 and efficient nucleic acid testing of multiple samples in under an hour with high throughput, reducing the need for specialized facilities and equipment, and allowing on-demand processing.
Implementation Method 1
a magnetic separator configured to move relative to the process chambers of each holder
Implementation Method 2
a heater assembly configured to independently heat each of the process chambers
Data Source
AI summary
The technology described herein generally relates to systems for extracting polynucleotides from multiple samples, particularly from biological samples, and additionally to systems that subsequently amplify and detect the extracted polynucleotides. The technology more particularly relates to microfluidic systems that carry out PCR on multiple samples of nucleotides of interest within microfluidic channels, and detect those nucleotides.