Split Flow Device for One-Step Signal Amplification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lateral flow strip-based assays for analyte detection in biological samples are limited by their sensitivity due to the requirement for multiple steps to achieve signal amplification, which complicates the detection process.
Innovation Solution
The analyte detection system employs a dual flow path system where a secondary flow path delivers reagents to the capture region after the analyte-conjugate complex is captured, allowing for one-step amplification of the detection signal without the need for additional washing or substrate application steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If enzyme label conjugates are used for signal amplification, then detection sensitivity is improved, but the assay requires multiple steps including washing and substrate delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the capture region and substrate delivery function into a single integrated region. The capture membrane contains both the capture protein for analyte binding and the enzyme substrate, eliminating the need for separate washing and substrate delivery steps. This merging of functions allows signal amplification to occur in one step while maintaining high detection sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The capture region is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it captures the analyte-conjugate complex, provides the enzyme substrate for signal amplification, and eliminates the need for separate washing steps. This multi-functional design reduces assay complexity while maintaining sensitivity.
2Measurement precision
If nanoparticle-based signal intensification is used, then detection sensitivity is improved, but the assay requires several steps to wash unreacted conjugate and apply intensification solution
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the substrate delivery function with the capture region, so that the intensification reagents are delivered directly to where the analyte-conjugate complex is captured. This eliminates the need for separate washing steps and reduces the overall number of assay steps while maintaining signal intensification capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The capture membrane acts as an intermediary that simultaneously performs analyte capture and reagent delivery. By incorporating the enzyme substrate into the capture membrane, the system mediates both functions in a single component, simplifying the assay procedure.
3Productivity
If a single flow path is used, then the assay is simple and rapid, but signal amplification cannot be achieved
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the substrate delivery function into the capture region, allowing a single flow path to perform both analyte capture and signal amplification. This eliminates the need for multiple flow paths or complex multi-step procedures while maintaining the ability to achieve signal amplification.
Solution Approach 2:
The enzyme substrate is pre-loaded into the capture region membrane, so that when the analyte-conjugate complex is captured, the substrate is already in position for immediate signal amplification. This preliminary preparation allows rapid one-step detection without requiring subsequent substrate delivery steps.
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 approach enables sensitive, one-step detection of analytes by ensuring that reagents are delivered sequentially to the capture region, enhancing the detection sensitivity and simplifying the process while maintaining accurate results.
Implementation Method 1
The complex continues to migrate through the porous membrane to the region where the capture protein is immobilized
Implementation Method 2
In another embodiment, the substrate entry region comprises a semi-permeable membrane
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention provides an analyte detection system for detecting a target analyte in a sample. In particular, the invention provides a detection system capable of one-step amplification of the detection signal by incorporating a secondary flow path that can deliver reagents to a reaction zone. Methods of using the detection system to detect analytes in samples, particularly biological samples, and kits comprising the detection system are also disclosed.