Semiconductor Sensor Cartridge for Multiplexed Biomarker Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current biomarker-based tests for diseases like cancer and cardiovascular events are hindered by the lack of a low-cost, portable, and rapid testing platform suitable for point-of-care use, which is essential for timely diagnosis and treatment, especially in settings like homes or emergency situations.
Innovation Solution
A handheld diagnostic system utilizing nanosensor technology integrated with smartphone plugins, enabling multiplexed biomarker detection through semiconductor sensors and microfluidics, with communication capabilities for real-time data analysis and decision support.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If central-lab based devices are used for biomarker detection, then measurement precision is improved, but device portability and cost are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate modules: a disposable sensor cartridge containing the biomarker detection elements and a reusable reader device. This segmentation allows the sensitive detection components to be pre-calibrated and protected in the cartridge while the reader provides portability and can be shared across multiple cartridges, achieving both precision and ease of use at point-of-care.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor cartridge is designed as a disposable component that contains the delicate sensing elements. After a single use, the cartridge is discarded, eliminating the need for complex cleaning, calibration, and maintenance procedures. This disposable approach maintains measurement precision while dramatically simplifying operation and reducing costs for point-of-care settings.
2Reliability
If comprehensive biomarker panels are tested, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but testing time and complexity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple biomarker detection channels are integrated into a single cartridge, allowing simultaneous detection of multiple analytes from one sample application. The cartridge contains arrays of sensing elements that can detect various biomarkers in parallel, providing comprehensive diagnostic information in a single testing operation rather than requiring multiple separate tests.
Solution Approach 2:
The reader device is designed with universal capabilities to interface with different cartridge types and detect multiple biomarker panels. The system can be configured to test for different disease markers using the same hardware platform, reducing overall testing time across various diagnostic applications while maintaining high accuracy through specialized sensing elements in each cartridge.
3Measurement precision
If sensitive biomarker detection is achieved, then early diagnosis capability is improved, but device cost and complexity are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The complex, highly sensitive sensing elements are contained within a disposable cartridge that is pre-manufactured and calibrated. This transfers the complexity to a one-time manufacturing process rather than requiring the point-of-care device to handle complex calibration and maintenance procedures. The reusable reader remains relatively simple while achieving high sensitivity through the specialized disposable cartridge.
Solution Approach 2:
The cartridge serves as an intermediary component that bridges the simple reusable reader and the complex sensing requirements. It contains the sophisticated biomarker recognition elements, signal amplification mechanisms, and calibration data, allowing the reader to remain simple while still achieving sensitive detection through the mediating cartridge interface.
Data Source
AI summary
A semiconductor sensor-based near-patient diagnostic system and related methods.