Classifying microbeads in near-field imaging
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Publication Number
US-11112347-B2
Publication Date
2021-09-07
Expiration Date
Abstract
Among other things, an imaging sensor includes a two-dimensional array of photosensitive elements and a surface to receive a sample within a near-field distance of the photosensitive elements. Electronics classify microbeads in the sample as belonging to different classes based on the effects of different absorption spectra of the different classes of microbeads on light received at the surface. In some examples, the number of different distinguishable classes of microbeads can be very large based on combinations of the effects on light received at the surface of the different absorption spectra together, spatial arrangements of colorants in the microbeads that impart the different absorption spectra, different sizes of microbeads, and different shapes of microbeads, among other things.
Core Innovation
The invention relates to a method that uses a near-field/contact imaging sensor having a two-dimensional array of photosensitive elements. A sample is placed at a surface of the imaging sensor, and the sample includes microbeads and target elements. At least some of the microbeads are attached to units in the sample, and at least some of the target elements are attached to the units attached to the microbeads.
The sample is held statically within a near-field distance of the photosensitive elements. The imaging sensor captures a two-dimensional image of the statically-held sample including the microbeads. The method then performs class-based microbead processing, including counting the microbeads belonging to two different classes in the two-dimensional image and/or identifying locations of the microbeads of each of the two different classes in the two-dimensional image.
Based on at least one of the count of the microbeads belonging to each of the two different classes and the locations of the microbeads of each of the two different classes, the method performs at least one of an assay, a count, a classification, and an analysis of the target elements in the sample. The target elements and the units can be configured for specific analytes using attached target molecules on bead-attached units, and the bead classes can be distinguished for the classification.
Claims Coverage
The independent claim includes inventive features centered on near-field static placement on a two-dimensional photosensitive array, two-dimensional imaging of class-defined microbeads, and class-based counting and/or localization that drives assay, count, classification, or analysis of target elements. The partial content provided includes one independent claim.
Near-field static placement on a two-dimensional imaging sensor
Placing a sample at a surface of an imaging sensor comprising a two-dimensional array of photosensitive elements, holding the sample statically within a near-field distance of the photosensitive elements.
Microbead and target element attachment to units
The sample includes microbeads at least some of which are attached to units, and target elements at least some of which are attached to the units attached to the microbeads.
Two-dimensional imaging of the statically-held microbeads
Using the imaging sensor to capture a two-dimensional image of the statically-held sample including the microbeads.
Class-based counting and/or microbead location identification
Counting microbeads belonging to each of two different classes in the two-dimensional image, or identifying locations of the microbeads of each of the two different classes in the two-dimensional image, or both.
Assay, count, classification, and analysis based on class counts and locations
Based on at least one of the count of the microbeads belonging to each of the two different classes and the locations of the microbeads of each of the two different classes, performing at least one of an assay, a count, a classification, and an analysis of the target elements in the sample.
Across the provided independent claim, the core claimed coverage is a near-field, static sample placement on a two-dimensional photosensitive array, capturing a two-dimensional image of microbeads, then counting and/or locating microbeads in two classes so that class counts and locations determine assay, count, classification, or analysis of the target elements.
Stated Advantages
Supports counting microbeads belonging to each of two different classes in a two-dimensional image.
Supports identifying locations of microbeads of each of the two different classes in the two-dimensional image.
Enables performing at least one of an assay, a count, a classification, and an analysis of target elements in the sample based on class counts and locations.
Documented Applications
Multiplex assays/diagnostics and analysis of target elements using bead classes and imaging results.
Bead counting and microbead localization determination.
Determination of cell phenotype via bead labeling using cell-surface expression molecules and antibodies.
Concentration/analysis of target elements including antigens, hormones, biomarkers, drugs, and viral capsids.
An example involving anti-HIV antibodies with transmitted-light/fluorescence overlaid imaging.
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