Retro-reflective Micro-chamber for Gene Analysis Signal Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
In gene analysis using microfluidic devices, the detectable limit of fluorescence signals is limited due to signal loss, making it challenging to detect tiny amounts of DNA targets, especially when amplifiers are used, which also amplify noise.
Innovation Solution
A gene analysis device with a microfluidic device featuring a reflection pattern in the micro-chamber, which minimizes fluorescence signal loss by using a retro-reflective structure and specific optical systems to enhance the detection of fluorescence signals, including an illumination optical system and a detection optical system with filters to isolate and measure the fluorescence signals effectively.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If amplifiers are used to raise signal level, then signal detection capability is improved, but noise is also amplified
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies retro-reflective structures to convert the harmful loss of fluorescence signal into a beneficial effect by reflecting the signal back toward the detection optical system, thereby increasing signal intensity without requiring amplifiers that would also amplify noise
2Measurement precision
If fluorescence signal loss is minimized, then limit of detection is improved, but signal intensity remains insufficient for tiny amounts of targets
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a spatial dimension solution by using retro-reflective structures at the bottom of the micro-chamber to redirect fluorescence signals that would otherwise be lost back toward the detection optical system, effectively increasing signal intensity without changing the chemical or physical properties of the fluorescence generation process
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 reflection pattern increases the intensity of the fluorescence signal, allowing for better detection of DNA targets at lower concentrations and improving the limit of detection (LOD) without significantly affecting the threshold cycle (Ct) value, thus enhancing the performance of gene analysis.
Implementation Method 1
a reflection pattern is formed in a micro-chamber, which minimizes fluorescence signal loss
Implementation Method 2
a detection optical system for detecting a fluorescence signal generated by a bio-reaction in the micro-chamber
Implementation Method 3
including a photodetector
Data Source
AI summary
A gene analysis device including an illumination optical system radiating exciting light onto a sample solution; a microfluidic device for forming a bio-reaction space of the sample solution and including at least one micro-chamber in which a reflection pattern is formed; and a detection optical system for detecting a fluorescence signal generated by a bio-reaction in the micro-chamber and comprising a photodetector.