Paper Microfluidic Chip with Embossed Channels for Nucleic Acid Diagnosis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current molecular diagnosis methods for cancer and infectious diseases require lengthy laboratory procedures, including sample preparation and extraction, which are time-consuming and often necessitate laboratory equipment and expertise, whereas existing paper-based devices primarily focus on analytical diagnosis without efficient extraction and preparation processes.
Innovation Solution
A point-of-care device featuring a cellulose-based paper chip with integrated debossed and embossed channels for nucleic acid extraction, hybridization, and electrochemical measurement, utilizing graphene modified pencil lead electrodes and a slidable magnet for on-chip processing, enabling rapid and enzyme-free nucleic acid analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional laboratory-based molecular diagnosis methods are used, then measurement precision and reliability are improved, but measurement time and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functions (extraction, hybridization, and electrochemical detection) into a single integrated paper-based microfluidic device. The paper chip integrates the extraction channel, hybridization chamber, and electrochemical sensing area, allowing all operations to occur in one device rather than requiring separate laboratory equipment for each step.
Solution Approach 2:
The paper-based device performs extraction and hybridization automatically through capillary action and pre-loaded reagents, eliminating the need for external laboratory equipment like centrifuges or heating blocks. The system serves itself by using the paper matrix and fluidic design to drive the process without manual intervention or complex instrumentation.
2Measurement precision
If traditional laboratory-based molecular diagnosis methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a disposable paper-based chip that is inexpensive to manufacture and use. The paper matrix serves as both the structural support and the functional medium for fluid transport and chemical reactions. After a single use, the entire chip is discarded, eliminating the need for complex cleaning, calibration, or maintenance procedures associated with reusable laboratory equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple functions (extraction, hybridization, and electrochemical detection) into a single integrated paper-based device. The paper chip integrates the extraction channel, hybridization chamber, and electrochemical sensing area, allowing all operations to occur in one device rather than requiring separate laboratory equipment for each step.
3Measurement precision
If enzyme-based extraction and preparation methods are used, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement time and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes enzymes from the extraction and preparation process. Instead of using enzyme-based methods that require incubation time and temperature control, the invention employs a simplified chemical extraction approach using the paper matrix and buffer solutions, eliminating the need for enzyme addition, incubation steps, and associated equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The paper-based device performs extraction and hybridization automatically through capillary action and pre-loaded reagents, eliminating the need for external laboratory equipment like centrifuges or heating blocks. The system serves itself by using the paper matrix and fluidic design to drive the process without manual intervention or complex instrumentation.
4Measurement precision
If nanoparticle binding processes are used, then measurement precision is improved, but measurement time and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-modifying the paper matrix and pre-loading the reagents during device fabrication. The extraction buffer and hybridization probes are incorporated into the paper chip before use, eliminating the need for time-consuming binding and incubation steps during actual operation. The system is prepared in advance to enable rapid detection.
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
This solution allows for rapid, cost-effective, and single-step diagnosis of cancer and infectious diseases on a single chip, reducing measurement time to approximately 30 minutes without the need for laboratory equipment, achieving precise nucleic acid detection at low limits.
Implementation Method 1
extraction and purification of nucleic acids are provided
Implementation Method 2
a slidable magnet positioned under said chip housing and which transfers the nucleic acids, which are nano-micro particle bonded, to said diagnosis and determination channel
Implementation Method 3
a heat panel positioned in the vicinity of said chip housing and which provides heat to the chip
Implementation Method 4
an electro-analytical measurement part having electrodes which can realize precise measurements at low limit of detection
Implementation Method 5
integrated debossed and embossed channels for nucleic acid extraction, hybridization, and electrochemical measurement
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The present invention is related to a method developed for providing extraction, sample preparation and diagnosis of cancer and infectious diseases from nucleic acids in samples like blood, tissue, saliva, urine by means of diagnosis device (10) comprising a kit and measurement part (12), a paper-based chip (11) where said method is used.