Multimodal Single-Cell Measurement Using SMR and Optical Sensing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring cancer biomarkers after treatment lack the precision needed to guide therapeutic choices, and suspended microchannel resonators (SMRs) have not been used effectively for multimodal measurements of single cells due to configuration and operation limitations.
Innovation Solution
Combining suspended microchannel resonators (SMRs) with additional sensors, such as brightfield imagers, to perform multimodal measurements by correlating velocity and trajectory data with other sensor data, enabling precise measurement of cellular properties like mass, density, and optical properties.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If suspended microchannel resonators (SMRs) are used for single cell measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases due to configuration and operation limitations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple sensor modalities (SMR mass sensor, optical sensor, impedance sensor) into a single integrated measurement device. This merging allows simultaneous multimodal measurements of single cells without requiring separate complex devices, thereby maintaining measurement precision while reducing overall device configuration complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The measurement device is designed with multi-functionality, capable of performing mass measurement, optical characterization, and impedance measurement within a single platform. This universal design eliminates the need for multiple specialized devices, simplifying the overall system configuration while preserving the high precision of SMR measurements
2Measurement precision
If multiple sensors are combined for multimodal measurements, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the measurement process into distinct functional modules (SMR mass detection module, optical detection module, impedance detection module), each optimized for its specific measurement type. This segmentation allows precise multimodal measurements while managing complexity through modular design, where each sensor operates independently but contributes to the overall measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a flow control system and data correlation algorithm as intermediaries that coordinate the multiple sensors. These intermediaries synchronize the operation of different sensors and correlate their measurements, enabling precise multimodal characterization without requiring direct complex integration between all sensor components
3Measurement precision
If cell velocity and trajectory tracking is implemented, then measurement precision is improved, but loss of time increases due to tracking requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary tracking of cell velocity and trajectory using optical sensors before cells reach the SMR measurement zone. By pre-acquiring this motion information, the system can accurately correlate mass measurements with specific cell identities without requiring time-consuming post-measurement tracking, thus improving precision while minimizing time loss
4Device complexity
If traditional methods are used for cancer biomarker measurement, then device complexity is reduced, but measurement precision is insufficient for therapeutic guidance
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a simplified model system using suspended microchannel resonators that replicate the essential measurement function of complex biomarker analysis devices. This copying approach provides sufficient measurement precision for therapeutic guidance through direct single-cell mass and density measurements, avoiding the need for complex traditional biomarker assay devices
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
Provides high-precision, multimodal measurements of single cells, allowing for accurate classification and tracking of cells, improving the interpretation of cellular data and guiding therapeutic decisions.
Implementation Method 1
suspended microchannel resonators (SMRs) are an ideal means by which to obtain these cellular measures at a single cell resolution
Implementation Method 2
a brightfield imager placed in series with the SMR
Data Source
AI summary
The invention provides devices and methods for linked multimodal measurements of individual particles using a mass sensor and an additional sensor.