Nucleotide Sequencing Electrodes With Motion-Modulated Signal Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nucleotide sequencing systems are insufficiently rapid, accurate, and efficient for certain applications.
Innovation Solution
A system and process involving an apparatus with electrodes for measuring collective electromagnetic signals from nucleotide chains and a mechanism to modulate these signals by moving the nucleotide chains relative to the electrodes, allowing for the identification of electromagnetic signals associated with individual nucleotides.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If collective electromagnetic signals are measured from multiple nucleotides simultaneously, then measurement speed is improved, but signal-to-noise ratio deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process by using multiple electrodes positioned at different locations along the nucleotide chain. Each electrode measures signals from a specific segment of nucleotides, allowing parallel measurement across multiple segments simultaneously. This segmentation maintains high throughput while improving signal resolution by isolating measurements to smaller nucleotide groups.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamic movement of the nucleotide chain relative to the electrode array through a modulation mechanism. By moving the chain at controlled speeds and patterns, the system optimizes the temporal overlap between electrodes and nucleotides, enhancing signal-to-noise ratio while maintaining high sequencing throughput through dynamic adjustment of measurement parameters.
2Measurement precision
If non-contact electrodes are used to measure electromagnetic signals, then measurement accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces direct mechanical contact between electrodes and nucleotides with non-contact electromagnetic field-based measurement. Electrodes detect electromagnetic signals emitted by nucleotides through their intrinsic electronic transitions without physical touching, eliminating mechanical wear and contamination issues while maintaining high measurement accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent designs the electrode array to serve multiple functions: signal detection, position reference, and modulation control. The same electrode structure that detects electromagnetic signals also provides the reference framework for modulating the nucleotide chain movement, reducing overall device complexity by consolidating functions into unified components.
3Measurement precision
If a modulation mechanism is added to move the nucleotide chain, then sequencing accuracy is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the modulation mechanism with the electrode support structure. The same physical framework that holds the electrodes in precise positions also provides the mechanical infrastructure for moving and modulating the nucleotide chain, eliminating the need for separate modulation apparatus and reducing overall device complexity.
4Productivity
If multiple electrodes are used to measure signals from different portions of the nucleotide chain, then sequencing throughput is improved, but signal interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the nucleotide chain into distinct measurement zones, each monitored by dedicated electrodes. By assigning specific electrode groups to specific nucleotide segments, the system enables parallel measurement across multiple segments while minimizing cross-talk and signal interference between adjacent measurement regions through spatial isolation.
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
Enhances the speed, accuracy, and efficiency of nucleotide sequencing by utilizing non-contact electrodes and precise movement mechanisms to modulate electromagnetic signals, improving signal-to-noise ratio and sequencing accuracy.
Implementation Method 1
at least one electrode for measuring a collective electromagnetic signal from a portion of a nucleotide chain
Implementation Method 2
a mechanism configured to move the nucleotide chain relative to the electrode in order to modulate the collective electromagnetic signal
Data Source
AI summary
A system for nucleotide chain sequencing, the system including an apparatus with: at least one electrode for measuring a collective electromagnetic signal from a portion of a nucleotide chain, the portion including a plurality of nucleotides; and a mechanism configured to move the nucleotide chain relative to the electrode in order to modulate the collective electromagnetic signal, for identifying an electromagnetic signal associated with each individual nucleotide in the plurality of nucleotides.