Integrated Sample Preparation Cartridge for Automated Nucleic Acid Extraction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nucleic acid isolation and purification methods face challenges in achieving optimal sample preparation, leading to suboptimal results in downstream applications due to variations in sample sources such as blood, plant tissue, or bacteria, and require manual handling in automated systems like the Abbott m2000 System.
Innovation Solution
A sample preparation cartridge with integrated wells and openings for reaction vessels and plungers, featuring magnetic particle transfer components and automated handling, enabling automated nucleic acid extraction, washing, and elution processes, minimizing human intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If manual handling is used in automated systems like the Abbott m2000 System, then the system can process samples, but human intervention is required which introduces human error and reduces efficiency
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sample preparation functions (lysis, binding, washing, elution) into a single integrated cartridge system. The cartridge integrates the sample preparation chamber, magnetic particle retention structure, and fluid handling pathways into one unified device that can be automatically processed by the Abbott m2000sp module, eliminating manual intervention while maintaining automation benefits
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a magnet as an intermediary component within the cartridge to retain magnetic particles during automated processing. This magnetic retention mechanism enables automated fluid handling and sample processing without requiring manual manipulation, serving as a mediator between the automated system and the sample preparation chemistry
2Reliability
If optimized kits are used to address variation in sample sources, then sample preparation quality improves, but the complexity of selecting and implementing optimized protocols increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs a universal cartridge system that can process multiple sample types (blood, plant tissue, fungi, bacteria) using the same integrated platform. The cartridge incorporates universal magnetic particles with silica or iron oxide chemistry that can bind nucleic acids from various sources, and the automated protocol remains consistent across different sample types, eliminating the need for separate optimized protocols for each sample source
3Productivity
If magnetic particles are used for nucleic acid binding, then extraction efficiency improves, but the requirement for precise magnetic separation and washing increases process complexity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the sample preparation process into distinct functional zones within the cartridge: a lysis chamber for sample processing, a binding zone with magnetic particles for nucleic acid capture, and a washing/elution pathway. The magnet is positioned to retain magnetic particles in specific zones during automated fluid handling, enabling efficient separation without complex manual manipulation
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs magnetic particles that automatically self-assemble and self-retain on the magnet surface when exposed to the magnetic field during automated processing. The magnetic particles perform the separation function autonomously without requiring manual intervention, and the cartridge design allows automated fluid flow to complete washing and elution steps, making the system self-sufficient during operation
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 cartridge system facilitates efficient, automated nucleic acid preparation, reducing human error and ensuring consistent quality for downstream analyses by integrating robotic pipetting and magnetic separation techniques.
Implementation Method 1
binding of nucleic acids to a solid phase (magnetic particles) using silica or iron oxide nucleic acid chemistry, separation of the solid phase from the residual lysis solution using magnetic separation technology
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure include sample preparation cartridges including a frame the includes a plurality of wells integrated therewith, where the plurality of wells have a closed bottom and an open top. The frame further includes an opening within the frame having a reaction vessel (RV) or RV cap removably disposed therein, where the plurality of wells and the opening are linearly arranged relative to each other. Also provided are sample preparation cartridges that include a frame, two or more cartridge separation projections on a top side of the frame, and two or more cartridge separation projections on a bottom side of the frame. The cartridge separation projections separate the cartridge and a different cartridge when the cartridge and different cartridge are stacked. Methods of using the sample preparation cartridges, as well as nucleic acid sample preparation units that include the sample preparation cartridges, are also provided.