Solid Support for Analyte Detection via Capillary Sample Retention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current analyte detection methods in biological samples, particularly using test strips, face challenges in automation, limited multiplexing capabilities, and high costs due to manual handling and inefficiencies in fluid management, leading to reduced repeatability and increased costs.
Innovation Solution
A solid support with a planar body and a sample chamber that utilizes capillarity for sample retention, separated from the assay membrane compartment by a non-detachable fluid-impermeable barrier, enabling automated sample loading and detection, and allowing for simultaneous analysis of multiple analytes with integrated controls and calibration curves.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If test strip format is used for analyte detection, then portability and simplicity are improved, but automation capability deteriorates due to difficulty in automatic incubation and rinsing
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into distinct functional modules: a holder for the test strip, a reservoir for fluid storage, and integrated incubation chambers. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function while enabling overall automation of the detection process.
Solution Approach 2:
The test strip is nested within the holder, which contains the reservoir and incubation chambers. The holder itself can be nested within larger automated diagnostic systems. This nested structure allows compact integration of multiple functions while maintaining ease of operation.
2Extent of automation
If multiple-well plate-based assays are used, then automation capability is improved, but portability and simplicity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The device merges the functions of multiple-well plates (incubation, fluid storage, sample handling) into a single integrated holder structure. This combination maintains automation capability while improving portability by eliminating the need for separate equipment for each function.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different test strip configurations and perform multiple functions (sample loading, incubation, rinsing, detection) in a single device, replacing the need for multiple specialized equipment pieces.
3Quantity of substance
If prior art pumps and tubing systems are used for fluid management, then fluid delivery capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase due to void volumes and cleaning requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The invention extracts and eliminates the complex pump and tubing systems from the device. Instead, it uses passive capillary action and gravity-driven fluid flow, removing the sources of void volumes and cleaning requirements while maintaining adequate fluid delivery capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The fluid management system operates autonomously using capillary wicking and gravity flow. The device self-regulates fluid delivery without external pumps, and the integrated reservoir-holder structure self-cleans through continuous fluid flow, eliminating the need for external cleaning procedures.
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual sample loading is performed, then flexibility in sample handling is improved, but cross-channel contamination risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The device incorporates pre-defined sample loading ports and integrated incubation chambers that are prepared in advance. Samples are loaded into designated chambers that are already configured with appropriate reagents and barriers, eliminating the need for manual manipulation that could cause cross-contamination.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder acts as an intermediary structure between the sample source and the test strip. It includes integrated incubation chambers and fluid barriers that mediate the sample delivery process, preventing direct contact between samples and reducing cross-contamination risk while maintaining handling flexibility.
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
Facilitates automated and cost-effective detection of multiple analytes with improved repeatability and reduced manual handling, enabling flexible testing of various analytes in biological samples without the need for additional controls, thus enhancing the efficiency and economy of the detection process.
Implementation Method 1
said sample chamber is sized such that a sample is held within the sample chamber by means of capillarity
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 3
AI summary
The present invention concerns a solid support (1) for housing at least one assay membrane (2) comprising: -a body (3) having a generally planar shape defining a longitudinal axis (A-A'), wherein said body (3) comprises at least one compartment (6) for holding at least one assay membrane (2), and -a sample chamber (4) provided on one end of the longitudinal axis of said body (3), wherein said sample chamber (4) comprises at least one opening (5), and wherein said sample chamber (4) is separated from said at least one compartment (6) by a non-detachable barrier (15). The present invention also concerns the use of the solid support for housing an assay membrane as well as kits and methods of use.