TMD Layer Sequencing Device for Signal Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current DNA sequencing technologies face challenges in achieving high accuracy, reducing costs, and increasing scalability for widespread use in precision medicine, particularly in making genome sequencing practical for millions of individuals with clinical-grade quality.

Innovation Solution

The development of label-free, single-molecule based sequencing systems utilizing microstructurally controlled transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) layers with intentionally defective structures, which enhance biomolecule attachment and electrical signal detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Measurement precision

If optical means with fluorescence reporters are used for DNA sequencing, then detection capability is improved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces optical detection systems with electronic detection systems. Specifically, it uses field effect transistors (FETs) to detect DNA sequencing events through electrical signal changes rather than optical signals. This substitution eliminates the need for fluorescence reporters, optical lenses, and photodetectors, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining detection capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent extracts and removes the optical detection components (fluorescence reporters, optical systems) from the sequencing device, retaining only the essential detection function through electronic means. This extraction simplifies the overall device architecture by eliminating unnecessary optical subsystems

Inventive Principle:

Principle #2Taking out (Extraction)

2Measurement precision

If optical means with fluorescence reporters are used for DNA sequencing, then detection capability is improved, but manufacturing cost increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvedetection capabilityVSAvoidmanufacturing cost

Core Design Contradiction:

Measurement precisionVSEase of manufacture

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces expensive optical detection systems with cheaper electronic field effect transistor-based detection. FETs can be manufactured using standard semiconductor fabrication processes, which are more cost-effective and scalable than optical component manufacturing. This substitution directly reduces manufacturing costs while preserving detection functionality

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the detection parameter from optical (fluorescence) to electrical (current/voltage changes in FET). This parameter change enables the use of inexpensive semiconductor manufacturing techniques rather than costly optical component assembly, thereby reducing overall manufacturing cost

Inventive Principle:

Principle #35Parameter changes

3Productivity

If massively parallel sequencing reactions are processed in miniaturized microfluidic formats, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesequencing throughputVSAvoiddevice complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the microfluidic reaction chamber with the field effect transistor detection structure into a single integrated device. The microfluidic channel is positioned directly over the FET gate, allowing reaction products to modulate the FET channel current. This integration eliminates the need for separate optical detection pathways and reduces overall device complexity while maintaining high throughput

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The FET structure serves multiple functions: it acts as both the detection element and the signal amplification device. The field effect transistor simultaneously detects the presence of DNA molecules and amplifies the signal through its transconductance, eliminating the need for separate amplification components and reducing device complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

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 rapid, accurate, and cost-effective DNA sequencing by allowing for massively parallel analysis, improved biomolecule attachment, and enhanced electrical signal detection, making it suitable for clinical-grade genome sequencing.

Implementation Method 1

enhanced electrical signal detection

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectElectrical Conductivity: Conduction (electrical)

Data Source

PatentUS20250044253A1Solid state sequencing devices comprising two dimensional layer materials

Publication Date: 2025.02.06 SEMICONBIO INC

AI summary

A sequencing device is disclosed. The sequence device includes an array of conducting electrode pairs, each pair of electrodes comprising a source and a drain electrode arrangement separated by a nanogap, the electrode array deposited and patterned on a dielectric substrate; at least one transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) layer disposed on each pair of electrodes, wherein the TMD layer connects each source and drain electrode within each pair, and bridges each nanogap of each pair of electrodes; and a dielectric masking layer disposed on the TMD layer and comprising at least one opening that defines an exposed TMD region, wherein the at least one opening is sized so as to allow a single biomolecule to fit therein and to attach on to the exposed TMD region. In embodiments of the disclosure, the TMD layer be a defective TMD layer.