High-Throughput Phage Microgel Synthesis With Removable Templates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for manufacturing phage microgels are inefficient and fail to preserve the bioactivity of heat/solvent-sensitive phages, limiting their use in biocontrol applications.
Innovation Solution
A high-throughput method for synthesizing sprayable phage microgels using a microporous template, where phage microgels are suspended in a sprayable fluid composition and applied to surfaces, utilizing crosslinkers like glutaraldehyde and EDC to maintain phage bioactivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If common microgel preparation methods (microfluidics or emulsion method) are used, then microgels can be produced, but phage bioactivity is lost due to heat/solvent sensitivity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical and chemical parameters of the preparation process by using a water-based solvent system at low temperatures (4°C) instead of organic solvents and high temperatures, thereby preserving phage bioactivity while enabling microgel formation through alternative crosslinking mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces crosslinking agents (glutaraldehyde, EDC) as intermediaries that enable microgel formation through chemical crosslinking of phage proteins without requiring heat or organic solvents, thus maintaining phage integrity while achieving microgel structure
2Reliability
If low-throughput methods are used to preserve phage bioactivity, then phage microgels can be synthesized, but production efficiency is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the microgel synthesis process into distinct stages (phage suspension preparation, crosslinker addition, microgel formation, harvesting) that can be scaled and optimized independently, enabling high-throughput production while maintaining bioactivity preservation at each stage
Solution Approach 2:
The patent performs preliminary actions by pre-preparing phage suspensions with optimized concentrations and pre-testing crosslinking conditions to determine optimal ratios and reaction times, thereby enabling scalable production without compromising bioactivity
3Quantity of substance
If phage density in microgels is increased, then biocontrol efficacy is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the phage encapsulation process with the microgel formation process into a single step, where phages are trapped within the forming microgel network during crosslinking, thereby achieving high phage density without requiring separate loading steps or complex equipment
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 method enables the production of phage microgels with high phage density and bioactivity, suitable for effective biocontrol in various applications, including food and medical settings, while maintaining stability and functionality.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing crosslinkers like glutaraldehyde and EDC to maintain phage bioactivity
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein is a high-throughput method of synthesizing biofunctional microparticles. In aspects, the method comprises casting biofunctional microparticle precursors onto a microporous template to form microparticles, wherein the template comprises a removable film; and removing the film to liberate the microparticles. Also described herein is a sprayable microgel and related methods.