Optical Tweezer Single-Cell Analysis for Automated Mass Spectrometry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current single cell analytical instruments face limitations in automation, leading to low efficiency and complexity in detecting spectrum and mass spectrum information, making it difficult to implement and popularize in application fields.
Innovation Solution
An analytical system that includes an optical tweezer, an optical detector, and a mass spectrometer, allowing for automatic capture, recognition, and detection of sample particles, eliminating the need for manual transfer and synchronizing the test flux for efficient optical and mass spectrometry analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual operation is used for single cell operation and movement, then the device structure can be simpler, but the automation level is low and test efficiency is greatly limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (optical trapping, optical detection, and mass spectrometry) into an integrated system where the optical tweezer not only traps cells but also drives them through the fluid channel to the mass spectrometer. This merging of trapping and transport functions eliminates the need for manual operation while maintaining a relatively compact device structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical tweezer serves multiple purposes: it traps single cells, transports them through the fluid channel, and positions them for detection. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate mechanical manipulation systems, thereby increasing automation without proportionally increasing device complexity.
2Productivity
If Raman spectrum and mass spectrum test are performed sequentially with manual operation, then the device structure can be simpler, but the test flux of optical detector and mass spectrometer are mismatched resulting in low test efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The optical tweezer continuously drives cells through the fluid channel, enabling continuous transport from the optical detection zone to the mass spectrometer. This continuous action synchronizes the test flux of both detectors, eliminating idle time and improving overall test efficiency without requiring complex coordination mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The optical detector performs preliminary detection of cells before they reach the mass spectrometer. Cells that pass the optical detection criteria are then driven by the optical tweezer to the mass spectrometer for further analysis. This preliminary sorting action optimizes the workflow and synchronizes detection rates.
3Speed
If manual transfer of samples is required, then the device structure can be simpler, but the detection process is slow and automation is low
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical transfer operations with an optical-driven transport mechanism. The optical tweezer uses optical gradient forces to drive cells through the fluid channel to the mass spectrometer, eliminating the need for manual pipetting or mechanical manipulation while significantly increasing detection speed and automation.
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 system enables quick, accurate, and automated recognition, capture, and detection of sample particles, improving detection efficiency and reducing costs by directly capturing and transporting samples using optical gradient force, thereby enhancing the output flux and analysis speed.
Implementation Method 1
an optical tweezer arranged towards the fluid system and configured to capture the sample particles in the fluid system; The sample particles in the fluid system are at least partially driven by the optical tweezer toward the mass spectrometer
Implementation Method 2
an optical detector configured to detect optical information of the sample particles in the fluid system
Data Source
AI summary
The technical solution of the present disclosure provides an analytical system and an analytical method, which can quickly and automatically capture, recognize and detect samples using a simpler device structure, improve detection efficiency and reduce costs. The analytical system includes: a fluid system, where solution containing sample particles is stored in or flowing through; an optical tweezer arranged towards the fluid system and configured to capture the sample particles in the fluid system; an optical detector configured to detect optical information of the sample particles in the fluid system; and a mass spectrometer arranged at a succeeding stage of the fluid system. The sample particles in the fluid system are at least partially driven by the optical tweezer toward the mass spectrometer.