Sample Analysis Methods and Apparatuses for Efficient Cancer Diagnosis

Cancer diagnosis has long been a crucial aspect of oncology, and researchers are continually seeking innovative methods for early detection and treatment. Recent patent applications by Korean inventors Minseok S. KIM, Hui-sung Moon, and Jong-myeon Park, filed on April 25, 2014, and posted on April 23, 2015, propose novel sample analysis methods and apparatuses aimed at improving cancer diagnosis. The inventive solutions focus on streamlining the process of sample analysis, particularly for circulating tumor cells (CTCs), which play a significant role in early detection and prediction of cancer.

Key Takeaways:

• The present invention relates to sample analysis methods and apparatuses that utilize a microfluidic apparatus with a valve operated by external energy to analyze a sample efficiently.
• The inventive sample analysis apparatus includes a first unit that rotates a microfluidic apparatus, a second unit that moves the valve driver in a radial direction, and a control unit that controls the rotation speed and alignment of the valve driver with the valve.
• The sample analysis method includes rotating the microfluidic apparatus and valve driver at the same rotation speed to perform sample processing, synchronizing and rotating the valve driver to align it with the valve, and supplying energy to the valve to operate it.
• The dynamic valve operation method includes rotating the microfluidic apparatus, synchronizing and rotating the valve driver, and supplying energy to the valve to operate it.
• The inventive solutions provide improved reliability and efficiency in sample analysis, particularly for CTCs, and have implications for early cancer detection and treatment.

Statistics:

• The second rotation speed may be lower than the first rotation speed, with the first rotation speed being the same as or differing from the second rotation speed.
• The valve material may be melted and discharged or moved through the channel by centrifugal force to open or close the channel.
• The sample analysis method includes centrifuging the sample, with the second rotation speed being lower than the first rotation speed.

Sources:

• KIM, Minseok S.; Moon, Hui-sung; Park, Jong-myeon. Sample Analysis Methods and Apparatuses and Dynamic Valve Operation Methods. Filed April 25, 2014 and posted April 23, 2015. Patent URL: http://appft.uspto.gov/netacgi/nph-Parser?Sect1=PTO2&Sect2=HITOFF&u=%2Fnetahtml%2FPTO%2Fsearch-adv.html&r=2176&p=44&f=G&l=50&d=PG01&S1=20150416.PD.&OS=PD/20150416&RS=PD/20150416