Photoactive Probes for Biomolecule Detection via pH Change
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current microarray technologies face limitations in detection accuracy and feature size due to the use of fluorophore tags, which restricts the throughput and efficiency of biomolecule detection and sequencing.
Innovation Solution
The development of probes bound to photoactive groups, such as photoacid or photobase generators, which undergo a measurable pH change upon exposure to activating radiation, enabling sensitive and specific detection of target biomolecules without the limitations of optical detection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If fluorophore tags are used for detection, then detection capability is achieved, but feature size is limited due to diffraction limit and detection accuracy decreases at small concentrations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection (fluorophores) with electronic detection (FET sensors). The FET sensor detects electrical signals generated by biomolecular binding events directly, eliminating the need for optical components and fluorophore tags. This substitution enables feature sizes below the diffraction limit while maintaining high detection accuracy through direct electrical signal measurement.
2Productivity
If fluorophore-based detection is used, then biomolecule detection is enabled, but throughput and efficiency are reduced due to size limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical detection with electronic detection using FET sensors, enabling higher throughput by allowing smaller feature sizes that can be densely packed on arrays. The electronic detection method eliminates diffraction limits, permitting increased information density and faster data acquisition rates across multiple parallel sensing elements.
3Reliability
If fluorophore tags are used, then binding detection is possible, but the size of features on chip is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes optical detection with electronic detection using FET sensors that measure electrical signals from binding events. This replacement removes the diffraction limit constraint, allowing feature sizes to be reduced while maintaining reliable detection capability. The electronic sensing mechanism provides equivalent or superior detection reliability without the physical size constraints of optical methods.
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 approach allows for high-throughput and efficient detection of biomolecules, including sequencing, with improved accuracy and reduced feature size on arrays, enhancing the capability for information density and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
probes bound to a photoactive group, such as a photoacid or photobase generator that undergoes a measurable pH change upon exposure to an activating radiation
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein are compositions, probes, devices, and processes useful for detecting specific reactions and binding interactions with biological molecules. In certain embodiments, methods of binding one or more biomolecules to a solid support are disclosed. Methods of generating site-specific sequences for one or more biomolecules from a solid support are also disclosed. Biological complexes generated by these methods are also disclosed.