Packed-Tube Magnetic Capture for Rapid Biological Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing microfluidic methods for capturing biological entities from fluid samples lack efficiency and simplicity for diagnostic and medical testing.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a packed tube containing magnetic beads functionalized to bind target biological entities and an aggregation agent, combined with a magnetic field to separate the beads from the supernatant, along with optional use of chelation and anticoagulants to enhance the process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If microfluidic methods are used to capture biological entities from fluid samples, then the capture process can be performed in a controlled manner, but the efficiency and simplicity for diagnostic and medical testing deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device is segmented into distinct functional components: a packed tube containing magnetic beads and aggregation agent, a lid with dispensing tip, and a magnetic field source. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function optimally while maintaining overall system simplicity for rapid testing
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic beads and aggregation agent are extracted and pre-packed into a separate tube, which is then combined with the fluid sample. This extraction allows the capture reagents to be prepared in advance and stored stably, improving testing efficiency when needed
2Productivity
If magnetic beads and aggregation agent are used to capture target biological entities, then the separation efficiency improves, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The magnetic beads and aggregation agent are merged into a single packed tube configuration, eliminating the need for separate storage and addition steps. This merging simplifies the device while maintaining high separation efficiency through the combined action of magnetic capture and aggregation
Solution Approach 2:
The packed tube serves multiple functions: it stores the magnetic beads, contains the aggregation agent, mixes with the fluid sample, and enables magnetic separation. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, simplifying the overall device
3Reliability
If chelation agents and anticoagulants are added to enhance the capture process, then the binding efficiency improves, but the preparation time and procedure complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The chelation agent is pre-coated on the interior surface of the packed tube during manufacturing. This preliminary action ensures that calcium chelation is already in place when the fluid sample is added, eliminating the need for separate addition steps and reducing preparation time while maintaining binding 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
Achieves rapid and efficient separation of target biological entities from fluid samples, with up to 99% separation within one minute, using a simple and cost-effective kit or device configuration.
Implementation Method 1
disposing the packed tube in proximity of a magnetic field, wherein the magnetic field separates the magnetic beads from a supernatant
Implementation Method 2
a plurality of magnetic beads functionalized to bind the target biological entity
Implementation Method 3
an aggregation agent, wherein the aggregation agent aggregates the target biological entity when exposed to a plurality of the target biological entities
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are devices, systems, methods, and kits for use in the magnetic separation of biological entities from fluid samples.