Spin Column Tapered Design for Biomolecule Concentration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional spin columns have a fixed volume and size, limiting the amount of specimen that can be processed and the concentration of biomolecules that can be achieved, which is insufficient for accurate biochemical assays.
Innovation Solution
The spin column design is modified to have a larger volume (over 1050 μl) with a smaller diameter lower section accommodating the filter membrane, reducing the elution buffer volume from 60 μl to 30 μl, thereby increasing the concentration of biomolecules by 2.8 times compared to conventional columns.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If the spin column volume is increased to accommodate more specimen, then the biomolecule concentration can be improved, but the spin column cannot be placed in conventional centrifuge slots
Solution Approach 1:
The spin column transitions from a conventional uniform cylindrical shape to a tapered design where the lower section diameter is reduced. This dimensional change in the radial direction allows the column to maintain a smaller footprint for centrifuge slot compatibility while the extended upper section provides increased volume for larger specimen capacity.
Solution Approach 2:
The spin column is divided into distinct sections: an upper section with larger diameter for specimen loading, a middle section for filter membrane placement, and a lower section with reduced diameter for centrifuge slot compatibility. This segmentation allows each portion to serve its specific function while resolving the contradiction between volume and compatibility.
2Quantity of substance
If the filter membrane volume is reduced to decrease elution buffer volume, then the biomolecule concentration is improved, but the adsorption capacity may be reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The filter membrane is positioned in the lower section where the column diameter is smaller, creating a localized region with optimized membrane area. This local quality adjustment allows sufficient adsorption capacity in a compact space, enabling reduced elution buffer volume while maintaining reliable biomolecule recovery.
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
This design allows for higher biomolecule concentration, enhancing the accuracy of subsequent biochemical assays by accommodating more specimen and reducing the required elution buffer volume.
Implementation Method 1
Due to the special material and pores of the filter membrane, when the sample passes through the filter membrane, the biomolecules in the sample to be extracted will be adsorbed on the filter membrane
Implementation Method 2
Centrifugal force is thereby exerted on the specimen in the tube so that it passes through the filter membrane into the collection tube
Data Source
AI summary
The spin column of the present invention is used for filtering and extracting biological molecules, such as nucleic acids and proteins. When the spin column is used, it is placed inside a collection tube, which is then placed in a centrifuge slot and the centrifuge is activated. The internal volume of the spin column of the present invention is larger than that of a conventional spin column, allowing it to accommodate a larger amount of specimens. Additionally, the filter membrane positioned inside the spin column of the present invention is smaller than that of conventional spin columns. The amount of washing solution required to wash the biological molecules from the filter membrane is proportional to the size of the filter membrane. Therefore, less washing solution is required in the present invention. Since the spin column of the present invention can accommodate a larger amount of specimen, the number of biomolecules contained in the specimen is also larger. Since less washing solution is required to dissolve and recover the biomolecules from the filter membrane, the concentration of collected biological molecules in the washing solution is higher.