Dual-Container Tissue Storage System for Molecular Diagnostics
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for storing biological tissue samples for molecular and histopathology diagnostics often result in molecular changes due to environmental stress, as samples are not effectively preserved in single fixative reagents, leading to degradation of nucleic acids during storage and transportation.
Innovation Solution
A container system comprising two containers with different reagents and a sample holder that allows for sequential transfer of the sample between them, providing controlled storage environments to maintain sample integrity, using a closure mechanism for secure and liquid-tight sealing, and optionally including visual indicators to differentiate the containers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a single fixative reagent is used to preserve biological tissue samples, then the sample can be stored and transported, but molecular changes occur due to environmental stress leading to degradation of nucleic acids
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the preservation system into multiple containers, each containing different reagents (e.g., fixative, stabilizer, nuclease inhibitor). This segmentation allows each reagent to perform its specific function optimally, preventing molecular degradation while maintaining sample integrity during storage and transport.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary substances between the sample and environmental stressors. These include stabilizers and nuclease inhibitors that act as mediators to protect nucleic acids from degradation caused by environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations and microbial activity.
2Reliability
If analysis is performed immediately after sample collection, then molecular integrity is maintained, but practical constraints make immediate analysis impossible
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-preparing multiple containers with appropriate reagents before sample collection. The sample is immediately placed into the first container with fixative, and subsequent containers with stabilizers and other protective agents are ready for sequential transfer, enabling preservation to begin immediately while allowing delayed analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by controlling pH, temperature, and chemical composition through sequential reagent addition. Each container modifies the environmental parameters to favor nucleic acid stability, allowing the sample to be stored under optimized conditions for extended periods before analysis.
3Reliability
If multiple reagents are used to preserve sample integrity, then molecular degradation is prevented, but the system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing a modular container system where each container serves multiple functions: physical containment, chemical preservation, temperature control, and protection from contamination. The standardized container design allows the same basic structure to be used for different reagents, reducing overall system complexity despite using multiple reagents.
Data Source
AI summary
A system for storing a biological sample for transfer between two different environments is provided. The system includes a first container defining a first container interior, and a second container defining a second container interior. A first closure is provided for enclosing the open end of the first container, with the first closure adapted to receive a sample holder. A second closure is also provided for enclosing the open end of the second container. The first container is adapted to removably receive the sample holder therein when the first closure encloses the open end of the first container, and the second container is adapted to subsequently receive the same sample holder therein when the first closure encloses the open end of the second container.