3D-Printed Recursive Analyzer for CRISPR Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic technologies are complex, expensive, and often require specialized infrastructure, making it difficult for remote or less developed areas to perform complex biochemical assays, especially for emerging diseases like Zika virus infections, which necessitate a low-cost, easy-to-operate, and easy-to-produce analyzer device.
Innovation Solution
A 3D-printed analyzer device with nested recursive structure elements that allow sample displacement through gravity or additional forces, enabling CRISPR/Cas-based analyses, and is designed for decentralized production and operation, reducing the need for extensive laboratory infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If complex diagnostic systems are used, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements nested recursive structure elements where smaller reaction chambers are positioned within larger containment structures. The nested design allows multiple assay steps to occur in a compact arrangement, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining the precision of complex diagnostic analyses through integrated measurement functionalities.
Solution Approach 2:
The analyzer device is designed with universal measurement functionalities that can perform multiple diagnostic assays using a single integrated platform. The device accommodates different test types (viral, bacterial, cancer markers) through standardized reaction zones and measurement capabilities, eliminating the need for multiple specialized devices while maintaining diagnostic precision.
2Measurement precision
If specialized laboratory infrastructure is used, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation and accessibility worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The analyzer device incorporates automated sample processing and measurement functionalities that operate with minimal user intervention. The system automatically manages fluid communication between nested chambers, controls reaction conditions, and performs measurements, allowing non-specialized users to conduct complex diagnostic analyses without extensive training or laboratory infrastructure.
3Manufacturing precision
If traditional manufacturing methods are used, then manufacturing precision is improved, but ease of manufacture and scalability worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs 3D printing technology to manufacture the analyzer device, representing a fundamental change in manufacturing parameters from traditional precision machining or molding. This additive manufacturing approach enables complex nested geometries to be produced with sufficient precision for diagnostic applications while dramatically improving ease of manufacture, scalability, and the ability to rapidly prototype and deploy devices in decentralized locations.
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 device simplifies complex assays, allows for in situ analysis, and reduces logistical and bureaucratic complexities, enabling rapid deployment and operation in various environments without requiring extensive training or infrastructure.
Implementation Method 1
a displacement of the sample and of material present in a recursive structure element, such as liquid material, to the next recursive structure elements by gravity in the form of a rotation of the analyzer device in a 3D-coordinate system
Implementation Method 2
with additional forces such as capillary motion or air or liquid pressure
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention relates to an analyzer device for analyzing a sample comprising (i) at least two recursive structure elements; (ii) wherein each of the recursive structure elements has at least one connection to at least one of the other recursive structure elements; (iii) at least one measurement functionality; wherein said sample can be displaced between the recursive structure elements by a rotation of the analyzer device in a 3D-coordinate system. Also provided is a method for producing the analyzer device via 3D printing, a system comprising the device and a reagent pack, a method for in vitro diagnosis of viral or bacterial infections or cancer using the device, as well as the use of the analyzing device for the diagnostic analysis of a sample, in particular on the basis of the CRISPR/Cas system.