Polarization-Split Pixel Sensing for Multiplex Analyte Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sensing technologies face challenges in efficiently distinguishing and identifying multiple analytes in multiplex assays and DNA sequencing processes due to overlapping fluorescence signals and interference from different polarizations of light.
Innovation Solution
The apparatus employs a pixel sensor with first and second reaction sites configured to selectively transmit light of different polarities, allowing for the detection of analytes based on their unique emission signals under specific polarized excitation, thereby enhancing the identification of multiple analytes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional light sensing is used to detect multiple analytes, then the detection process can be performed, but signal interference from overlapping fluorescence and different polarizations reduces measurement precision
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the detection process into separate polarization channels by using polarizing beam splitters and quarter-wave plates. Each polarization state (right-circular and left-circular) is directed to separate reaction sites, allowing independent detection of different analytes. This segmentation eliminates signal interference by spatially separating the detection paths for different analytes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces optical intermediaries including polarizing beam splitters, quarter-wave plates, and half-wave plates to manipulate and separate light polarizations. These intermediary optical components transform the incident light into distinct polarization paths that can be independently detected, thereby resolving the signal interference problem.
2Productivity
If multiple analytes are detected simultaneously in multiplex assays, then throughput increases, but distinguishing overlapping fluorescence signals becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent assigns different local optical properties to different reaction sites by configuring specific polarization-selective optical paths for each site. Each reaction site is optimized to detect a specific polarization state, creating local quality differences that enable clear distinction of multiple analytes even when they emit overlapping fluorescence signals.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the polarization parameter of the excitation light to differentiate between analytes. By using right-circular polarized light for one analyte and left-circular polarized light for another, the system creates distinct detection parameters that allow simultaneous multiplex detection without signal overlap, thereby increasing throughput while maintaining ease of measurement.
3Measurement precision
If polarization-based separation is implemented, then signal-to-noise ratio improves, but device complexity increases due to additional optical components
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple detection functions into a single integrated optical system. The polarizing beam splitter simultaneously directs different polarization states to different reaction sites, and the quarter-wave plates are positioned to perform both polarization transformation and signal separation functions. This merging reduces the overall number of separate components needed compared to conventional multi-detector systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs optical components with multiple functions: the polarizing beam splitter serves both to separate polarizations and to direct light paths; the quarter-wave plates simultaneously transform polarization states and enable circular dichroism detection; the half-wave plates provide both polarization rotation and signal modulation. This multi-functionality reduces device complexity by eliminating the need for separate components for each function.
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 improves the accuracy and efficiency of identifying multiple analytes by reducing signal interference and enhancing the signal-to-noise ratio, enabling higher throughput and lower cost in sequencing and multiplex assays.
Implementation Method 1
the first reaction site is configured to selectively transmit light of a first polarity; and wherein the second reaction site is configured to selectively transmit light of a second polarity
Implementation Method 2
detecting, using a pixel sensor of a plurality of pixels sensors, a read signal, the read signal being dependent on a first cluster signal emitted from a first reaction site
Data Source
AI summary
There is set forth herein, in one example, an apparatus. The apparatus can comprise, for example: a first reaction site and a second reaction site associated to a common pixel, wherein the pixel comprises a pixel sensor.