Automated Blotting Device Using Sliding Substrates
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electroblotting techniques are costly, time-consuming, require skilled practitioners, and yield non-reproducible and non-quantitative data due to variability in sample handling and transfer efficiency, leading to incomplete detection of analytes and loss of sample information.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising two or three solid substrates with complementary half-spaces that form channels for separation and detection, allowing for automated sliding to change channel alignment and configuration, enabling efficient immobilization and detection of analytes using capture agents and access ports for fluid and electrical control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional electroblotting procedures are used, then analytes can be transferred from matrix to blot, but the procedure is time-consuming and requires skilled practitioners
Solution Approach 1:
The device divides the blotting surface into multiple discrete stations, each capable of independent analyte transfer. This segmentation allows parallel processing of multiple samples simultaneously, dramatically reducing total procedure time while maintaining transfer efficiency through automated mechanical manipulation of the blotting membrane across different stations.
Solution Approach 2:
The blotting membrane is designed to be dynamically movable across multiple stations through automated mechanical means. This dynamic positioning enables the system to sequentially access different processing zones without manual intervention, reducing procedure duration while preserving transfer quality through controlled, repeatable positioning at each station.
2Adaptability or versatility
If manual handling of blot is performed, then analytes can be processed through multiple incubations, but the procedure requires highly skilled practitioners and is not easily automated
Solution Approach 1:
Each station in the device is designed with universal functionality to perform multiple processing steps including blocking, antibody incubation, washing, and detection. This multi-functionality allows a single automated device to replace multiple manual processing steps that previously required skilled practitioners, enabling full automation while maintaining processing versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The device introduces automated mechanical intermediaries (robotic arms, precision positioning systems, automated fluid handling) that mediate between the control system and the blotting membrane. These intermediaries enable complex multi-step processing to be performed automatically without direct human manipulation, reducing skill requirements while preserving processing capability.
3Measurement precision
If large excess of binding partners is used, then analytes can be detected with adequate sensitivity, but reagent costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The device implements localized processing zones at each station where binding partners are applied only to specific regions of the blotting membrane containing relevant analytes. This local application rather than blanket coverage of the entire membrane reduces reagent consumption while maintaining detection sensitivity in the regions of interest through concentrated, targeted reagent delivery.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies binding partners in controlled, partial amounts sufficient for detection at each station rather than using large excess throughout the entire procedure. The automated sequential processing allows each station to use minimal necessary reagent volumes, reducing total consumption while maintaining adequate sensitivity through the cumulative effect of multiple processing steps.
4Loss of information
If traditional electroblotting is performed, then analytes can be transferred to blot, but information about sample composition may be lost
Solution Approach 1:
The device adds a spatial dimension to the blotting process by arranging multiple processing stations in sequence along the blotting membrane path. This dimensional expansion allows simultaneous preservation of spatial information about sample composition while performing multiple processing operations, as each station can capture and maintain positional data about analytes at different locations along the membrane.
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 device facilitates automated, efficient, and reproducible separation, immobilization, and detection of analytes, reducing costs and variability, and enabling multiplexed sample processing while preserving information about the sample composition.
Implementation Method 1
Electroblotting is often paired with, and performed immediately after, a technique such as electrophoresis that separates the analytes in the matrix on the basis of size or charge
Implementation Method 2
The technique involves applying a potential difference across a matrix in which charged analytes, such as DNA, RNA, or protein, are distributed. The potential difference causes the analytes to migrate out of the matrix and become deposited on a surface or 'blot' next to the matrix
Implementation Method 3
Some of these blotting techniques can be performed in the absence of an applied potential difference, with the transfer of analytes from the matrix to the blot instead driven by capillary action
Data Source
Figure 1A~1C
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE Devices, systems, methods, and kits are provided for performing separation, immobilization, blotting, and/or detection of analytes from biological samples. In some embodiments, the devices are constructed from two solid substrates with surfaces in contact. The devices include a plurality of channels formed from indentations in these surfaces. The indentations can be aligned with each other across the interface between the substrates, and realigned by shifting or sliding one substrate relative to the other. In some embodiments, the devices are constructed from three layers of a solid substrate. A separation channel in the middle layer of the device is first used for analyte separation. The middle layer can then be slid relative the top and/or bottom layer, thereby aligning the separation channel with a blotting membrane. Analytes can then be transferred to the membrane using electrodes in the top and bottom layers.