TEER Electrode Alignment Mount for Consistent Positioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for measuring transepithelial/transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) suffer from high intra-user and inter-user variability due to manual positioning of chopstick electrodes, which can lead to inconsistent and inaccurate readings.
Innovation Solution
A unique alignment fixture is designed to hold, align, and stabilize chopstick electrodes, ensuring consistent positioning relative to the culture tray chamber, thereby reducing variability in TEER measurements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual positioning of chopstick electrodes is used, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to high intra-user and inter-user variability
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an alignment mount as an intermediary device between the researcher and the electrodes. This mount provides pre-defined positioning features that guide electrode placement, serving as a mediator that translates manual operation into consistent, precise positioning without requiring advanced operator skill
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment mount is prepared in advance with predetermined positioning features, aperture locations, and orientation markers. This preliminary configuration eliminates the need for real-time adjustment during measurement, ensuring consistent electrode placement before the actual TEER reading is taken
2Device complexity
If manual positioning of chopstick electrodes is used, then device complexity is reduced, but reliability deteriorates due to variability in electrode placement
Solution Approach 1:
The alignment mount is segmented into distinct functional components: a base that fits in the well, vertical arms that provide height reference, and aperture structures that guide electrode insertion. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, ensuring reliable positioning without requiring a complex integrated system
Solution Approach 2:
The alignment mount is designed to be self-aligning within the culture well, using the well's geometry and the mount's tapered shape to automatically position itself correctly. This self-service capability eliminates the need for complex adjustment mechanisms or skilled operation, providing reliable results through the device's inherent design
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to an alignment mount for electrode device used to measure transepithelial/transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) for cell culture models of endothelial and epithelial monolayers. The TEER electrode alignment mount includes a base having a top wall, a bottom wall and a sidewall shaped to fit within a culture tray chamber. An extension arm projects from a top wall of the base. A pair of through apertures are formed in the base on opposing sides of the arm to receive first and second electrodes therethrough, respectively. An optional adjustable sliding sleeve for changing the height of the arm can be selectively coupled to the extension arm.