PCR Sample Analysis with Real-Time Thermal Threshold Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing PCR-based diagnostic methods require pre-normalization and pre-quantification steps, which increase complexity and time, and lack sensitivity and specificity in detecting analytes.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for PCR analysis that initiates and controls PCR reactions using thermoelectric elements to generate and monitor signals, allowing for real-time monitoring and stopping reactions at predetermined thresholds without pre-normalization or pre-quantification, utilizing a system with thermoelectric heating and cooling elements and optical systems for signal detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If pre-normalization and pre-quantification steps are performed, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and processing time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating normalization and quantification reference materials directly into the PCR reaction mixture before the reaction begins. This allows the system to perform measurements without requiring separate pre-normalization and pre-quantification steps, thereby reducing device complexity and processing time while maintaining measurement precision through the embedded references
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multi-functionality by using a single PCR reaction system that simultaneously performs amplification, normalization, and quantification. The reference materials serve multiple purposes: they act as internal controls for normalization and as standards for quantification, eliminating the need for separate processing steps and reducing overall system complexity
2Measurement precision
If pre-normalization and pre-quantification steps are performed, then measurement precision is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by incorporating normalization and quantification reference materials directly into the PCR reaction mixture before the reaction begins. This allows the system to perform measurements without requiring separate pre-normalization and pre-quantification steps, thereby reducing device complexity and processing time while maintaining measurement precision through the embedded references
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single PCR reaction process. The reference materials are combined with the sample and reagents in one mixture, allowing simultaneous normalization, quantification, and amplification to occur together, thereby eliminating sequential processing steps and reducing total processing time
3Measurement precision
If real-time monitoring is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by using real-time monitoring of the PCR reaction through optical detection of fluorescence signals. The system continuously monitors the reaction progress and uses this feedback to determine when the reaction has reached the exponential phase, allowing for precise measurement of analyte concentration based on the timing and intensity of the signal rather than requiring complex pre-processing steps
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 high sensitivity and specificity in detecting analytes with accuracy of at least 90%, reducing processing time and complexity by eliminating pre-normalization and pre-quantification steps.
Implementation Method 1
using a first element disposed adjacent to the location to affect the condition in the location to thereby initiate the PCR reaction
Implementation Method 2
at least one optical system configured to detect a signal or change thereof from the individual locations of the plurality of locations, wherein the signal or change thereof is generated at least partially by a change of the thermal condition
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides methods and systems comprising use of a device. A device may comprise a plurality of locations configured to contain one or more samples, a plurality of thermal elements corresponding and disposed adjacent to the plurality of locations, wherein the plurality of elements are configured to affect a thermal condition within individual locations of the plurality of locations, at least one additional thermal element operably coupled and common to at least a subset of the plurality of elements, wherein the additional thermal element is configured to affect at least one operating condition of the plurality of thermal elements at least partially in response to the thermal condition within the individual locations of the plurality of locations, and at least one optical system configured to detect a signal or change thereof from the individual locations of the plurality of locations, wherein the signal or change thereof is generated at least partially by a change of the thermal condition and is indicative of a property associated with the one or more samples.