Solid Matrix for Ambient RNA Extraction and Stabilization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for stabilizing RNA under ambient temperature are inefficient, requiring refrigeration and significant sample processing, and existing dry-state technologies are not conducive to direct RNA collection from biological samples without pre-purification and additional drying facilities.
Innovation Solution
A solid matrix comprising a protein denaturant, chaotropic agent, detergent, and acid-titrated buffer reagents, configured to provide an acidic pH upon hydration, enabling direct extraction and stabilization of RNA from biological samples in a dry state at ambient temperature, maintaining RNA Integrity Number (RIN) of at least 4.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If RNA is stored under refrigeration to prevent degradation, then RNA integrity is preserved, but storage cost and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention changes the pH parameter to acidic conditions (pH 2-7) and combines it with protein denaturants and chaotropic agents to create a chemical environment that stabilizes RNA at ambient temperature, eliminating the need for refrigeration while maintaining RNA integrity
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses a composite formulation containing multiple components working together: protein denaturants (to inactivate RNases), chaotropic agents (to stabilize RNA structure), detergents (to lyse cells), and acid-titrated buffers (to maintain acidic pH). This composite material provides robust RNA stabilization without refrigeration
2Device complexity
If dry-state technologies are used for RNA preservation, then refrigeration is eliminated, but pre-purification and additional drying facilities are required
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges multiple functions into a single reagent formulation applied in one step: cell lysis, RNA extraction, RNase inactivation, and stabilization all occur simultaneously when the sample contacts the formulation, eliminating the need for separate pre-purification and drying steps
Solution Approach 2:
The single formulation serves multiple purposes: it acts as a cell lysis agent, RNA extraction buffer, RNase inhibitor, and stabilization medium all in one, making the process universally applicable to various sample types without requiring additional specialized facilities
3Loss of substance
If RNA is extracted using conventional liquid-based methods, then RNA can be purified, but RNA degradation occurs due to RNase activity and hydrolysis
Solution Approach 1:
The formulation takes preliminary anti-action by inactivating RNases and creating a stabilizing environment before RNA degradation can occur. The protein denaturants and chaotropic agents immediately neutralize threats to RNA integrity upon contact, preventing degradation rather than reversing it
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 solution allows for the ambient extraction and storage of RNA in a substantially dry state, preserving RNA integrity for prolonged periods without refrigeration, facilitating efficient and cost-effective RNA collection and analysis.
Implementation Method 1
at least one chaotropic agent in an amount effective to denature proteins and disrupt hydrogen bonding
Implementation Method 2
at least one detergent in an amount effective to solubilize lipids and cell membranes
Implementation Method 3
at least one acid or acid-titrated buffer reagent in an amount effective to maintain an acidic pH that prevents nucleic acid degradation
Data Source
AI summary
A solid matrix for the extraction, stabilization, and storage of nucleic acids is provided. At least one protein denaturant, and at least one acid or acid-titrated buffer reagent are impregnated in a dry state therein the matrix; and the matrix is configured to provide an acidic pH on hydration. The matrix is configured to extract nucleic acids from a sample and stabilize the extracted nucleic acids, particularly RNA, in a dry format under ambient conditions for a prolonged period of time. Methods for collecting and recovering the nucleic acids stored in the dry solid matrix are also described.