Single Molecule Analyzer Dynamic Scanning Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample analysis systems struggle to detect single molecules at extremely low concentrations and volumes, limiting their sensitivity and precision in biomedical research and diagnostics.
Innovation Solution
A single molecule analyzer is developed, comprising an electromagnetic radiation source, a system to direct radiation to an interrogation space, a translating system to move the interrogation space through the sample, and a detector to identify radiation emitted from single molecules.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional sample analysis systems are used, then basic detection capability is maintained, but sensitivity and precision for single molecule detection at extremely low concentrations and volumes deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a dynamic scanning approach where the interrogation space is moved through the sample over time, allowing continuous detection of single molecules at extremely low concentrations. This dynamic scanning mechanism enables the system to achieve high measurement precision for single molecule detection while working with minimal sample volumes and concentrations that would be undetectable with static conventional systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a temporal dimension to the detection process by scanning the interrogation space through the sample over time. This transforms a static detection problem into a dynamic one, allowing the system to accumulate detection sensitivity across multiple scans and time points, thereby achieving single molecule detection precision while maintaining operation with extremely low sample volumes and concentrations.
2Measurement precision
If the interrogation space is moved through the sample to detect single molecules, then detection sensitivity improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning mechanism and translating system are designed to perform multiple functions: they move the interrogation space through the sample for detection, enable temporal accumulation of detection sensitivity, and facilitate scanning across different spatial regions. This multi-functionality allows the system to achieve high single molecule detection precision while managing device complexity through a single integrated scanning apparatus that handles multiple operational requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous scanning of the interrogation space through the sample, maintaining detection sensitivity throughout the scanning process. This continuous action allows the system to accumulate detection signals over time while using a single, continuously operating scanning mechanism rather than multiple discrete detection components, thereby improving detection capability while managing overall device complexity.
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 system enables highly sensitive detection of single molecules, allowing for precise analysis of low-volume and low-concentration samples, which is crucial for advanced biomedical research and diagnostics.
Implementation Method 1
an electromagnetic radiation source for providing electromagnetic radiation to a sample container that comprises a sample; a detector operably connected to the interrogation space to detect electromagnetic radiation emitted from a single molecule in the interrogation space
Data Source
AI summary
The invention encompasses analyzers and analyzer systems that include a single molecule analyzer, methods of using the analyzer and analyzer systems to analyze samples, either for single molecules or for molecular complexes. The single molecule uses electromagnetic radiation that is translated through the sample to detect the presence or absence of a single molecule. The single molecule analyzer provided herein is useful for diagnostics because the analyzer detects single molecules with zero carryover between samples.