Illumina has patented a method for capturing cells in a digital microfluidic system. The process involves transporting sample droplets to a microwell device using a droplet actuator, introducing capture beads with immobilized capture elements, and utilizing a cell lysis reagent to release analytes from cells of interest. GlobalData’s report on Illumina gives a 360-degree view of the company including its patenting strategy. Buy the report here.
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According to GlobalData’s company profile on Illumina, Microfluidics automation was a key innovation area identified from patents. Illumina's grant share as of May 2024 was 33%. Grant share is based on the ratio of number of grants to total number of patents.
Cell capture and analyte release in microfluidic system
A recently granted patent (Publication Number: US12011719B2) discloses a method involving the use of a droplet actuator to transport sample droplets containing cells of interest to a microwell device. This device consists of a bottom substrate with microwells and a top substrate with molded cell traps above each microwell, allowing for the trapping and deposition of cells into the microwells. Capture beads with immobilized capture elements are introduced to the microwells, followed by the transport of a cell lysis reagent droplet to cause cell lysis and release of analyte captured by the beads during an incubation period.
Furthermore, the method includes additional steps such as the use of an immiscible fluid to encapsulate single beads with single cells and cell lysis reagent, as well as the removal of capture beads with analyte using a magnet positioned near the microwells. The patent also covers the utilization of a magnetic field to move capture beads and the incorporation of multiple capture elements on each bead, including capture and barcode sequences for specific gene targeting. This innovative method offers a comprehensive approach to isolating and analyzing cells of interest within microwells, enhancing efficiency and accuracy in various research and diagnostic applications.
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GlobalData Patent Analytics tracks bibliographic data, legal events data, point in time patent ownerships, and backward and forward citations from global patenting offices. Textual analysis and official patent classifications are used to group patents into key thematic areas and link them to specific companies across the world’s largest industries.
