Plasmonic Nanostructures for Selective Cell Capture and Release
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic technologies face challenges in detecting circulating tumor cells (CTCs) from pediatric cancers and other rare cells, and in monitoring immunosuppressive medications in real-time, due to limitations in sensitivity and adaptability for point-of-care applications.
Innovation Solution
A microfluidic-based system with plasmonic nanostructures, such as gold nanostars, formed in situ on internal surfaces of microfluidic devices, which capture and release cells or biomolecules using localized heating and surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy for real-time analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If magnetic bead-based sorting or nanostructured interfaces are used to capture CTCs, then capture selectivity is improved, but the ability to release captured cells for further analysis deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs magnetic nanoparticles with controllable magnetic properties that can be activated or deactivated through external magnetic fields. By changing the magnetic state of the nanoparticles, the system achieves both strong cell capture (when magnetic field is applied) and easy cell release (when magnetic field is removed), resolving the contradiction between capture selectivity and release capability
Solution Approach 2:
The magnetic nanoparticle-based platform serves multiple functions: it enables selective cell capture, facilitates easy cell release, and allows for further analysis of captured cells. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate capture and release mechanisms, addressing the limitation of existing technologies that cannot easily release captured cells
2Measurement precision
If conventional diagnostic methods (mass spectrometry, chromatographic assays) are used, then measurement accuracy is improved, but real-time detection capability and adaptability for point-of-care applications deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical and chemical diagnostic systems (mass spectrometry, chromatographic assays) with a simplified magnetic nanoparticle-based detection platform. This substitution maintains detection accuracy through specific magnetic targeting while enabling real-time monitoring and point-of-care applications through external magnetic field control and simple readout mechanisms
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses externally controllable magnetic field parameters to achieve real-time detection and monitoring. By adjusting magnetic field strength and timing, the system can dynamically capture, monitor, and release cells or molecules, providing real-time data without the delays inherent in conventional batch processing methods
3Reliability
If existing CTC detection technologies are used, then detection capability for common cancers is maintained, but sensitivity for detecting rare CTCs from pediatric cancers deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs magnetic nanoparticles with surface-functionalized capture ligands that can be specifically tailored to target rare cell types. By optimizing the local chemical and magnetic properties of the nanoparticles, the system achieves high sensitivity for detecting rare CTCs from pediatric cancers while maintaining reliable detection capability for common cancers through adjustable ligand selection
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods are disclosed that utilize metal nanostructures that are synthesized in situ along the internal surfaces of a microfluidic device. The nanostructures are formed by initial deposition of metallic seeds followed by flowing growth and reducing agent solutions into the capillaries/microfluidic channels to grow the nanostars. The nanostructures may optionally be functionalized with a capture ligand. The capture ligand may be used to selectively bind to certain cells (e.g., circulating tumor cells). The cells may be removed by a beam of light (e.g., laser beam) that induces localized heating at the surface location(s) containing the nanostructures. The plasmonic nature of the nanostructures can be used to heat the nanostructure(s) locally for the selective removal of one or certain cells. The nanostructures may be used to acquire Raman spectra of molecules or other small objects that are bound thereto for identification and quantification.