Polymer Printing Pad for Patterned Biochip Immobilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manufacturing biochips, such as DNA biochips, are time-consuming, costly, and require multiple steps for immobilizing nucleic acid molecules on a support according to a predetermined pattern, limiting their efficiency and scalability.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a polymer printing pad with a hollow profile complementary to the desired pattern, where a binding compound forms covalent or non-covalent bonds with both the support and the nucleic acid molecules, allowing for simultaneous functionalization and immobilization in a single, rapid step.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional multi-step methods are used for biochip manufacturing, then functionalization and immobilization can be achieved, but the process becomes time-consuming and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines surface functionalization and probe immobilization into a single integrated step. The master pattern contains both the binding compound (for functionalization) and the probe molecule (for immobilization), which are transferred together to the substrate in one operation, eliminating the need for separate functionalization and immobilization steps
Solution Approach 2:
The master pattern is pre-functionalized with binding compounds before probe deposition. This preliminary functionalization ensures that the substrate surface is ready for immediate immobilization when the pattern is transferred, eliminating the need for separate surface preparation steps during the actual immobilization process
2Reliability
If traditional multi-step methods are used for biochip manufacturing, then proper immobilization can be achieved, but the complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple functions into a single master pattern structure: pattern definition, surface functionalization, and probe immobilization all occur in one integrated process. The master pattern itself serves as the tool that performs all these functions simultaneously when pressed against the substrate
Solution Approach 2:
The master pattern is designed as a multi-functional element that can define geometric patterns, provide surface functionalization through binding compounds, and deliver probe molecules for immobilization. This single element replaces multiple separate tools and reagents that would traditionally be needed
3Measurement precision
If precise pattern transfer is required for diffracting gratings, then detection sensitivity improves, but the addressing process becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses a master pattern as a physical template that is directly copied onto the substrate through contact printing. The master pattern contains the precise geometric structure needed for diffracting gratings, and this structure is replicated on the substrate with high fidelity through simple pressure application, avoiding complex addressing procedures
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 method significantly reduces the time and cost of biochip production while enhancing the immobilization process, resulting in improved hybridization signals and detection sensitivity, particularly with the use of phosphorous dendrimers for oligonucleotide probes.
Implementation Method 1
penetration of the solvent contained inside said hollow into the polymer material
Implementation Method 2
capable of forming simultaneously a connection, in particular a connection covalent, with the support and a bond, in particular a covalent bond, with the compound of interest
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2(a)~9(b)
Figure 5~10
AI summary
The invention concerns a method for immobilising a compound of interest on the surface of a substrate (40) in a given pattern, by means of a printing pad (10) made from polymer material comprising a face (12) having a hollow profile (13) that geometrically matches said pattern. The method comprises the deposition of the compound of interest on the surface of walls of a recess (13), then the containment (27), between the substrate (10) and the face (12) of the pad, in the recess (13), of a solution (32) of a compound capable of forming a link with the substrate (40) and a link with the compound of interest, in a solvent capable of penetrating into the polymer material. The containment is carried out at a temperature and for a period sufficient to allow the solvent to penetrate the polymer material.