JP2009168508A - Dna chip device, mobile terminal device, and information communication system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable generation of a digital signal to which information related to the time variation of a reaction in hybridization is converted. <P>SOLUTION: The DNA chip device includes an electrodes 12 for holding detecting DNA; an integration circuit 110 for integrating a current flowing in the electrode 12 for a fixed time when hybridization is created by a detecting DNA and DNA to be detected and converting the current to a voltage, and then outputting the analog voltage signal obtained; a ladder resistor group 120 for generating a plurality of potentials based on a reference voltage; a comparator 130 for outputting a plurality of signals that indicates the comparison result of the voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit 110 and the plurality of potentials generated from the latter resistor group 120, by one of respective two types of levels; and an encoder circuit 140 for outputting the digital signal uniquely identified by the levels of the plurality of signals output from the comparator 130. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a DNA chip device capable of determining DNA information by a current detection method, a portable terminal device, and an information communication system.

  In recent years, DNA chips for detecting DNA having a specific sequence have been developed in gene analysis and the like in the fields of biology and medicine. In this type of DNA chip, there is a conventional one that synthesizes DNA on the chip electrochemically. A method for synthesizing DNA on a substrate is detailed in, for example, Patent Document 1.

  A device called a scanner is used for conventional hybridization detection of DNA sequences. The scanner takes a photo of a probe with a fluorescent substance attached to DNA, and detects hybridization from the color state.

  However, in the method of taking a photograph of the fluorescent substance, a large-scale device is required, and the detection result cannot be easily known. In addition, it has a drawback that it is difficult to introduce a certain amount or more of a fluorescent substance as a probe for the internal quenching of fluorescence.

  Therefore, in recent years, a DNA chip of a current detection system that draws attention from the current value by measuring the current of the DNA hybridization using an enzyme reaction or the like has attracted attention. The current measured by this type of DNA chip is a minute current of about several nA. Therefore, in a current detection type DNA chip, an integration circuit or the like is used to convert a current value integrated for a certain period of time into a voltage value and measure it. Judging the state.

In such a current detection type DNA chip, as disclosed in Patent Document 2, after converting the current value into a voltage value, the obtained analog voltage signal is converted into a digital signal. Some digital signals are output to facilitate information processing.
Special Table 2000-514802 JP 2006-78265 A

  However, in the technique of Patent Document 2 described above, the digital signal output from the DNA chip device includes only information on whether or not the voltage value corresponding to the detected current value is within a predetermined range. Inability to obtain detailed information on the temporal changes in the reaction during hybridization, it is possible to determine the degree of disease progression, the degree of contamination of bacterial contamination areas, or the effect of drugs on patients, pathogens, and viruses. There was a problem that it was difficult to do.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a DNA chip device, a portable terminal device, and an information communication system that can generate information on a temporal change in a reaction in hybridization as a digital signal. Objective.

  The DNA chip device according to the present invention integrates a current flowing through the electrode for a certain period of time to generate a voltage when hybridization occurs between the electrode for holding the detection DNA and the detection DNA and the detection DNA. An integration circuit that converts and outputs the obtained analog voltage signal, a ladder resistor group that generates a plurality of different potentials based on a reference voltage, a voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit, and the ladder A comparator that outputs a plurality of signals each indicating one of two types of comparison results with a plurality of potentials generated from a resistor group, and a digital signal uniquely determined by the levels of the plurality of signals output from the comparator And an encoder circuit for outputting.

  In addition, the DNA chip device according to the present invention integrates a current flowing through the electrode for a certain period of time when hybridization occurs between the electrode for holding the detection DNA and the detection DNA and the detection DNA. An integration circuit for converting to voltage and outputting the obtained analog voltage signal, and a voltage level of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit within a range between two threshold values And a counter that measures a time during which the digital voltage signal is output from the window comparator and outputs a digital signal that is uniquely determined by the measurement time. .

  The portable terminal device according to the present invention integrates a current flowing through the electrode for a certain period of time into a voltage when hybridization occurs between the electrode for holding the detection DNA and the detection DNA and the detection DNA. An integration circuit that converts and outputs the obtained analog voltage signal, a ladder resistor group that generates a plurality of different potentials based on a reference voltage, a voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit, and the ladder A comparator that outputs a plurality of signals each indicating one of two types of comparison results with a plurality of potentials generated from a resistor group, and a digital signal uniquely determined by the levels of the plurality of signals output from the comparator And a digital signal value output from the DNA chip device. Determining means for determining the information given response, characterized by comprising an output means for displaying and outputting information determined by the determining means.

  The portable terminal device according to the present invention integrates a current flowing through the electrode for a certain period of time when hybridization between the electrode for holding the detection DNA and the detection DNA and the detection DNA occurs. An integration circuit for converting to voltage and outputting the obtained analog voltage signal, and a voltage level of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit within a range between two threshold values A DNA comparator comprising: a window comparator that outputs a digital voltage signal; and a counter that measures a time during which the digital voltage signal is output from the window comparator and outputs a digital signal uniquely determined by the measurement time; Determining means for determining information associated with a value of a digital signal output from the DNA chip device; Characterized by comprising an output means for displaying and outputting information determined by the constant unit.

  The information communication system according to the present invention integrates a current flowing through the electrode for a certain period of time into a voltage when hybridization occurs between the electrode for holding the detection DNA and the detection DNA and the detection DNA. An integration circuit that converts and outputs the obtained analog voltage signal, a ladder resistor group that generates a plurality of different potentials based on a reference voltage, a voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit, and the ladder A comparator that outputs a plurality of signals each indicating one of two types of comparison results with a plurality of potentials generated from a resistor group, and a digital signal uniquely determined by the levels of the plurality of signals output from the comparator A DNA chip device provided with an encoder circuit for outputting a digital signal output from the DNA chip device Means for determining information associated with the mobile terminal device, and when the determined information is information indicating a certain level of danger or more, the mobile terminal device that transmits the information, and the information transmitted from the mobile terminal device And a server device that compares the information with a database and contacts a device provided in a predetermined organization if they match.

  In addition, the information communication system according to the present invention integrates a current flowing through the electrode for a certain period of time when hybridization occurs between the electrode for holding the detection DNA and the detection DNA and the detection DNA. An integration circuit for converting to voltage and outputting the obtained analog voltage signal, and a voltage level of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit within a range between two threshold values A DNA comparator comprising: a window comparator that outputs a digital voltage signal; and a counter that measures a time during which the digital voltage signal is output from the window comparator and outputs a digital signal uniquely determined by the measurement time; Means for determining information associated with a value of a digital signal output from the DNA chip device. When the determined information is information indicating a certain level of danger, the mobile terminal device that transmits the information and the information transmitted from the mobile terminal device are received, the information and the database are collated, and And a server device for contacting a device provided in a predetermined engine.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to generate information relating to a temporal change in reaction in hybridization as a digital signal.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  The appearance of a mobile terminal device according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIGS.

  A portable terminal device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is a handy type DNA information detection device (for example, a notebook size and weighing about 200 g to 300 g) to which a DNA chip device, which will be described later, can be attached. It is possible to display the test result of DNA to be displayed on the screen. The mobile terminal device 100 has a wired and wireless communication function (for example, an electronic device) for contacting a predetermined server when a specific bacterium or virus (for example, anthrax or SARS virus) is detected. E-mail function) and an alarm function that emits an alarm sound.

  The portable terminal device 100 includes a display unit 101, an input unit 102, a chip mounting unit 103, a memory card mounting unit 104, a battery 105, an AC adapter terminal 106, an RS-232C interface 107, a USB interface 108, and the like.

  The display unit 101 displays information indicating the progress of the reaction in DNA hybridization, information such as detection results of specific pathogens and viruses, and the manufacturing date and expiration date obtained from the attached DNA chip device. It is an LCD that can display various information such as remaining battery level, time, and temperature. The input unit 102 is buttons for performing power-on, input operation, and the like. The chip mounting part 103 is a part for mounting a DNA chip device to be described later. The memory card mounting unit 104 is a part for mounting a memory card for storing information such as inspection results. The battery 105 is a rechargeable battery. The AC adapter terminal 106 takes in AC power from outside. The RS-232C interface 107 is an interface for performing information communication with other devices in accordance with the RS-232C specifications. The USB interface 108 is an interface for performing information communication with other devices in accordance with USB specifications.

  Here, the DNA chip device mounted on the chip mounting unit 103 is of a type that performs DNA detection by a so-called current detection method. That is, when a DNA to be detected (target DNA) is dropped on a chip, hybridization is performed, and washing is performed, only the DNA for detection (probe DNA) having a completely complementary sequence to the DNA to be detected is obtained. Forms a double strand, and when an intercalating agent is added thereto, the intercalating agent binds to the DNA that forms the double strand, and when a voltage is applied to the electrode, the intercalating agent causes an electrochemical reaction, and an electric current is generated. It uses a mechanism of flowing.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a DNA chip device mounted on the chip mounting unit 103 of the mobile terminal device 100. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of a unit cell in the DNA chip device. The configuration of the DNA chip device actually used is not limited to the one shown below, and other configurations may be adopted as long as they are based on the current detection method.

  In the DNA chip device 10, for example, as shown in FIG. 3, a plurality of unit cells 11, an input control unit 15, and an output control unit 16 are formed on a substrate 17.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 4, the unit cell 11 includes an electrode 12, a detection DNA synthesis unit 13, a hybrid DNA detection unit 14, and a wiring layer 18 that connects them.

  The electrode 12 has a nucleic acid preliminarily arranged on the surface, and when a current is input from the detection DNA synthesis unit 13, the detection DNA (probe DNA) is synthesized from the nucleic acid. In addition, a secondary current resulting from the reaction between the ligand and the enzyme capable of detecting the hybrid DNA by hybridization of the synthesized detection DNA and the DNA to be detected (target DNA) is output to the hybrid DNA detection unit 14.

  When the current is input from the input control unit 15, the detection DNA synthesis unit 13 synthesizes the detection DNA from the nucleic acid previously arranged on the electrode 12.

  The hybrid DNA detection unit 14 detects a secondary current due to the reaction between the ligand and the enzyme from the electrode 12 and outputs it to the output control unit 16.

  The input control unit 15 inputs a current to the detection DNA synthesis unit 13 of the unit cell selected from the plurality of unit cells 11.

  The output control unit 16 controls the output of the secondary current detected by the hybrid DNA detection unit 14 of the unit cell 11, and converts the value of the secondary current into a digital voltage signal described later (hereinafter referred to as digital data conversion). (Also called) and output.

  The substrate 17 is a substrate of an electric circuit constituting the DNA chip device 10, and each electric circuit is connected by a wiring layer 18.

  The wiring layer 18 connects electrical / electronic components on the substrate 17 to each other.

Next, the operation of the DNA chip device 10 configured as described above will be described with reference to FIG.

  A control unit (not shown) selects the unit cell 11 for synthesizing the detection DNA from the plurality of unit cells on the substrate 17 and inputs the selection information to the input control unit 15 (S1). The input control unit 15 inputs a current to the detection DNA synthesis unit 13 of the selected unit cell 11 (S2). The detection DNA synthesizer 13 synthesizes the detection DNA from the nucleic acid previously arranged on the electrode 12 by the input current (S3). This DNA synthesis method is detailed in the “synthesis process” described on pages 45 to 47 of Patent Document 1.

  Next, the detection DNA on the electrode 12 is hybridized with the detection DNA that has been immersed in a ligand that reacts with a specific enzyme in advance. When this is washed, only the hybrid DNA remains on the electrode 12 due to the ligand. When an enzyme is reacted with this, a minute secondary current of about several nA is generated. This secondary current is detected by the hybrid DNA detection unit 14 (S4) and output to the output control unit 16 (S5). The output control unit 16 generates and outputs a digital signal corresponding to the temporal change of the secondary current (S6).

  Next, an example of the circuit configuration of the output control unit 16 shown in FIG. 5 will be described. Here are two examples.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a first circuit configuration example of the output control unit 16 in the DNA chip device 10.

  In the circuit configuration example of FIG. 6, the output control unit 16 includes a switch SW_I, an integration circuit 110, a ladder resistor group 120, a comparator 130, and an encoder circuit 140.

  Specifically, the electrode 12 is composed of a working electrode WE (working electrode) to which the detection DNA is fixed and an auxiliary electrode CE (counter electrode) provided opposite to the working electrode.

  The switch SW_I is provided between the electrode 12 and the integration circuit 110, and performs on / off switching with respect to inflow of current flowing from the electrode 12. Although not shown in FIG. 6, switching for selecting one electrode 12 from a plurality of electrodes existing for each unit cell can be performed.

  The integration circuit 110 includes an operational amplifier (differential amplifier) 111, a capacitor C, a reset switch SW_R, and the like, and integrates a current flowing through the electrode 12 for a certain period of time when hybridization occurs between the detection DNA and the detection DNA. The voltage is converted into a voltage and the obtained analog voltage signal is output. That is, the integration circuit 110 performs current-voltage conversion.

  The ladder resistor group 120 generates a plurality of different potentials based on the reference voltage VR. For example, the reference voltage VR is 5 V, and the generated potentials are 4.5 V, 4.0 V, 3.5 V, 3.0 V, 2.5 V, 2.0 V, 1.5 V, and 1.0 V, respectively. Configured as follows.

  The comparator 130 includes a plurality (n) of operational amplifiers (differential amplifiers) 131 to 13n, and the voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit 110 and the plurality of potentials generated from the ladder resistor group 120 are compared. A plurality (n) of signals indicating the comparison results at one of two levels (for example, low level “0” and high level “1”) are output.

  The encoder circuit 140 outputs a digital signal that is uniquely determined by the levels of a plurality (n) of signals output from the comparator 130. For example, when there are eight operational amplifiers 131 to 138 and the respective levels are “1”, “1”, “1”, “0”, “0”, “0”, “0”, “0” For example, “00000111” is output as a digital value expressed in binary bits. For example, the encoder circuit 140 outputs the digital signal at regular intervals in synchronization with a clock signal. Thereby, it becomes possible to grasp the background of the change in the voltage waveform.

  In starting the detection operation, first, a control unit (not shown) turns off the switch SW_I and turns on the switch SW_R to reset the capacitor C. After the preparation is completed, the switch SW_I is turned on, the switch SW_R is turned off, the clock signal is supplied to the encoder 140, and the detection operation is started.

  When hybridization occurs between the DNA to be detected and the detection DNA, the generation of hybrid DNA by washing, and the reaction by the enzyme, a current flows from the electrode 12 to the integrating circuit 110 side.

  The current flowing out from the electrode 12 is converted into a voltage by the integrating circuit 110 and sent to the input terminals (+) of the operational amplifiers 131 to 13n in the comparator 130, respectively. At the same time, a plurality of voltages (4.5 V, 4.0 V, 3.5 V,...) Obtained by dividing the reference voltage VR are sent to the input terminals (−) of the operational amplifiers 131 to 13 n, respectively. The operational amplifiers 131 to 13n compare two input voltages, and output a low level “0” when the voltage input from the input terminal (−) is larger than the voltage input from the input terminal (+). When it is small, a high level “1” is output.

  When electric charges are accumulated in the capacitor C in the integration circuit 110 due to the current flowing out from the electrode 12, the output voltage of the integration circuit 110 gradually decreases as time passes as shown in FIG. For this reason, all the outputs of the operational amplifiers 131 to 13n are initially at the low level “0”, but the output of each operational amplifier is sequentially switched from the low level “0” to the high level “1” as time passes. . In addition, the value of the digital signal output from the encoder circuit 140 is initially “00000000” (in the case of 8 bits), but the value of each bit is sequentially switched from 0 to 1 sequentially from the right side as time passes. To go.

  By using the value of the digital signal obtained in this way, it becomes possible to grasp the progress of reaction and the degree of reaction over time, so it is possible to accurately determine specific bacteria and viruses, It becomes easy to predict the degree of disease progression and the degree of contamination in bacterial contaminated areas, and the effect of drugs on patients, pathogens, and viruses.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a second circuit configuration example of the output control unit 16 in the DNA chip device 10. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the element which is common in FIG. 6, and the detailed description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In the circuit configuration example of FIG. 8, the output control unit 16 includes a switch SW_I, an integration circuit 110, a window comparator 150, and a counter 160.

  The window comparator 150 includes operational amplifiers (differential amplifiers) 151 and 152 and a logic circuit 153, and the voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit 110 is sandwiched between two preset threshold values. The digital voltage signal of a certain level is output while it is within. For example, while the relationship between the two threshold voltages Vr_H and Vr_L and the voltage Vin input from the integrating circuit 110 to the window comparator 150 is “Vr_L <Vin <Vr_H”, for example, the high level “1” Is output. That is, the window comparator 150 outputs a pulse signal indicating the time (integration time) until the voltage Vin reaches the threshold voltage Vr_L from the threshold voltage Vr_H.

  The counter 160 measures the time (integration time) at which a constant level digital voltage signal is output from the window comparator 150 and outputs a digital signal uniquely determined by the measured time. In other words, clock counting starts in synchronization with the clock signal from the time when the signal input from the window comparator 150 becomes high level “1”, and when the signal input from the window comparator 150 becomes low level “0”. End the count. For example, when the counted clock number (counter value) is “5”, for example, “0000101” is output as a digital value expressed by binary bits. Alternatively, a digital value indicating the integration time obtained from the number of clocks (counter value) may be output. Further, the counter 160 may be configured to output the digital signal at regular intervals in synchronization with a clock signal, for example. Thereby, it becomes possible to grasp the background of the change in the voltage waveform.

  In starting the detection operation, first, the control unit (not shown) turns off the switch SW_I, turns on the switch SW_R, resets the capacitor C, and resets the counter 160. After the preparation is completed, the switch SW_I is turned on, the switch SW_R is turned off, the clock signal is supplied to the counter 160, and the detection operation is started.

  When the electrode 12 undergoes hybridization between the DNA to be detected and the DNA for detection, generation of hybrid DNA by washing, and reaction by an enzyme, a current flows from the electrode 12 to the integrating circuit 110 side.

  The current flowing out from the electrode 12 is converted into a voltage by the integrating circuit 110 and sent to the input terminal (−) of the operational amplifier 151 and the input terminal (+) of the operational amplifier 152 in the window comparator 150, respectively. At the same time, the threshold voltage Vr_H of 4.0 V is sent to the input terminal (+) of the operational amplifier 151, and the threshold voltage Vr_L of 1.5 V is sent to the input terminal (−) of the operational amplifier 152. ing. The operational amplifiers 151 and 152 compare two input voltages, and output a low level “0” when the voltage input from the input terminal (−) is larger than the voltage input from the input terminal (+). When it is small, a high level “1” is output. The logic circuit 153 outputs the high level “1” only when the signal input from the operational amplifier 151 is the high level “1” and the signal input from the operational amplifier 152 is the high level “1”. Low level “0” is output.

  When electric charge is accumulated in the capacitor C in the integrating circuit 110 due to the current flowing out from the electrode 12, the output voltage of the integrating circuit 110 gradually decreases with time as shown in FIG. Therefore, initially, the output of the window comparator 150 is low level “0”, but when the voltage input to the window comparator 150 falls below the threshold voltage Vr_H of 4.0 V, the output of the window comparator 150 is high level. When the voltage input to the window comparator 150 becomes lower than the threshold voltage Vr_L of 1.5V, the output of the window comparator 150 becomes low level “0”.

  The counter 160 starts counting when the signal input from the window comparator 150 becomes high level “1”, and ends counting when the signal input from the window comparator 150 becomes low level “0”. When the counted clock number (counter value) is “5”, for example, “0000101” is output as a digital value. Alternatively, a digital value indicating the integration time obtained from the number of clocks (counter value) is output.

  Based on the integration time obtained from the output digital value: T, the capacitance of the capacitor in the integration circuit 110: C, and the threshold voltage difference in the window comparator 150: V, a well-known calculation formula: CV = IT is used. By doing so, it is also possible to calculate the current I flowing from the electrode 12.

  By using the value of the digital signal thus obtained, it becomes possible to grasp the degree of change (slope) of the voltage waveform between two arbitrary threshold voltages, that is, the reaction rate, and the subsequent reaction change Because it can predict, it can accurately determine specific bacteria and viruses, predict the degree of disease progression, the degree of contamination in bacterial contaminated areas, and predict the effects of drugs on patients, pathogens, and viruses. Easy to do.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating table information indicating a correspondence relationship between a digital value generated in the mobile terminal device 100 and a test result displayed on the display unit 101.

  The table information shown in FIG. 10 is stored in a predetermined storage medium in the mobile terminal device 100, and is used when a determination unit or a control unit (not shown) displays the inspection result on the display unit 101.

  A digital value indicated by “digital output” in FIG. 10 is a value for specifying the content of the “inspection result” to be displayed on the display unit 101, and is expressed by binary bits. In the example of FIG. 10, “0000” indicating that the pathogen is least likely to be detected to “1111” indicating that the pathogen is most likely detected is divided into 16 stages. ing. In the example of FIG. 10, a 4-digit digital value is shown, but the number of digits is not limited to this. For example, it may be expressed by 8 digits. In the example of FIG. 10, the inspection results are arranged in the descending order of the risk level, but in some cases, the inspection results need to be arranged in the descending order of the risk degree.

  For example, according to the circuit configuration example of FIG. 6, as can be seen from the conceptual diagram of FIG. 7, the lower the voltage, the higher the possibility that pathogenic bacteria have been detected. For example, when the digital value is “0000001”, the possibility that the pathogen is detected is low, and when the digital value is “1111111”, the possibility that the pathogen is detected is the highest. In such a case, as in the example of FIG. 10, there is no problem because the inspection results are arranged in descending order of risk.

  On the other hand, according to the circuit configuration example of FIG. 8, as can be seen from the conceptual diagram of FIG. 9, the smaller the counter value, the faster the reaction, and the more likely that pathogenic bacteria have been detected. . For example, when the counter value is “15” (that is, when the digital value is “0001111”, for example), the possibility that pathogenic bacteria have been detected is not so high. When the counter value is “1” (that is, when the digital value is, for example, In the case of “0000001”), it is most likely that the pathogenic bacteria have been detected. In such a case, the inspection results shown in the example of FIG. 10 are arranged in order of increasing risk from the top.

  Further, the inspection result is not limited to that shown in the example of FIG. For example, information indicating a plurality of test results corresponding to specific pathogen names (anthrax, SARS virus, etc.) may be prepared for each cell unit, or not a pathogen name but a specific gene or individual. Information indicating a corresponding possibility in a plurality of stages may be prepared for each cell unit.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration including the DNA chip device 10 in the mobile terminal device 100 and various peripheral elements.

  The portable terminal device 100 detachably mounts the above-described DNA chip device 10 and includes a selection unit 20, an extraction unit 30, a setting unit 40, a determination unit 50, an output unit 60, and a control unit 70. The DNA chip device 10 includes a plurality of unit cells 11, an input control unit 15, and an output control unit 16 that have already been described.

  The selection unit 20 selects a designated unit cell 11 from among a plurality of unit cells in accordance with a user selection instruction input through the input unit 102 described above.

  The extraction unit 30 extracts the DNA to be detected from the sample provided by the user.

  The setting unit 40 sets values of two threshold voltages (Vr_H, Vr_L) in the window comparator 150 provided in the output control unit 16 in accordance with a user's selection instruction input through the input unit 102. Is.

  Based on the digital value output from the output control unit 16, the determination unit 50 refers to, for example, the information table illustrated in FIG.

  The output unit 60 corresponds to the communication function for contacting the display unit 101, the speaker, or a predetermined server described above, and the setting information set by the setting unit 40 and the inspection result determined by the determination unit 50. Is output, or when a specific inspection result designated in advance is obtained, a warning sound or a message is output as a sound, or the inspection result is transmitted and output to a predetermined server.

  The control unit 70 controls the entire mobile terminal device 100, selects a unit cell 11 in the DNA chip device 10, processes to supply a clock signal and a counter reset signal to the output control unit 16, and the output control unit 16 Controls such as a process for turning on and off the switches, and a process for causing the determination unit 50 to determine an inspection result to be output to the display unit 101 are performed.

  The aforementioned determination unit 50 includes a data accumulation circuit 51 and a final determination circuit 52, as shown in FIG.

  The data accumulation circuit 51 accumulates individual digital values obtained from the DNA chip device 10 as a history at regular intervals in synchronization with the clock signal supplied from the control unit 70. The data accumulation circuit 51 is not necessarily required and can be omitted. Based on the individual digital values stored in the data storage circuit 51 or the digital values obtained directly from the DNA chip device 10, the final determination circuit 52 finally refers to, for example, the reference table of FIG. The inspection result to be displayed in 101 is determined. Further, the final determination circuit 52 generates a graph or the like indicating the history of the change of the voltage waveform based on the individual digital values accumulated in the data accumulation circuit 51 as a test result, or the change pattern of the voltage waveform. It is also possible to generate a test result that identifies a pathogen name, an individual, or the like by comparing with a plurality of patterns prepared in advance. The test results obtained in this way are effective data for determining the degree of disease progression and the degree of contamination of bacterial contamination zones, and determining the effects of drugs on patients, pathogens, and viruses.

  Next, an example of the operation of the mobile terminal device 100 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The portable terminal device 100 is assumed to be equipped with a DNA chip device 10 on which detection DNA is fixed in advance.

  At the start of the detection operation, the control unit 70 performs setting processing such as initial setting of switches in the DNA chip device 10 and selection of the unit cell 11, supplies a clock signal to a circuit in the DNA chip device 10, and performs detection. The operation is started (step S11).

  When the DNA to be detected (target DNA) is dropped onto the detection DNA (probe DNA) in the DNA chip device 10 (step S12), a reaction occurs due to the hybridization between the DNA to be detected and the DNA for detection ( Step S13), a current flows from the electrode 12 to the integrating circuit 110 side.

  The current flowing out from the electrode 12 is converted into a voltage by the integrating circuit 110 (step S14), and passes through the comparator 130 and the encoder circuit 140 (FIG. 6) or through the window comparator 150 and the counter 160 (FIG. 8). Thus, a digital signal is output from the DNA chip device 10 (step S15).

  Then, the determination unit 50 (FIG. 11) determines a corresponding test result based on the digital signal output from the DNA chip device 10, and displays the test result on the display unit 101 or notifies the outside. (Step S16).

  As described above, according to the mobile terminal device 100 of the present embodiment, detailed information on the temporal change of the reaction in hybridization can be obtained, so that the degree of disease progression and the degree of contamination of the bacterial contamination zone can be determined, Or it becomes easy to judge the effect of a medicine with respect to a patient, a pathogenic microbe, or a virus.

  FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of an information communication system for performing information communication when a dangerous pathogen or the like is detected using the mobile terminal device 100.

  This information communication system is an emergency security organization provided with a server 310 having a database (DB) and a personal computer (PC) 320 in addition to the portable terminal device 100 and personal computer (PC) 200 carried by an inspector. 300, ministries and agencies 400 that receive emergency communications, news stations 500, and research institutions 600.

  For example, when a specific pathogen is detected locally, the mobile terminal device 100 transmits data including a digital value corresponding to the detection result to the emergency security organization 300 via the network N by the communication function described above. Alternatively, it is transmitted to the emergency security organization 300 via the network N via the personal computer (PC) 200.

  When the server 310 receives data transmitted from the mobile terminal device 100, the server 310 performs verification with a digital value registered in a database (DB). The personal computer (PC) 320 can request the server 310 for various processes. If the emergency security organization 300 confirms that a specific pathogen has been detected from the result of the verification at the server 310, the emergency security organization 300 notifies the relevant ministries and agencies 400 to that effect.

  When the ministry and agency 400 receives notification from the server 310 that a specific pathogen has been detected, the ministry and agency 400 makes necessary communication to the news stations 500 and the research institution 600. When the news station 500 receives a notification from the emergency security organization 300, it releases the information. When the research institution 600 receives a notification from the emergency security organization 300, the research institution 600 examines a countermeasure method.

  Next, an example of the operation of the information communication system will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  Here, it is assumed that a tester receives a test request, takes the portable terminal device 100 that is a detection device to the site, and tests the test DNA that is the test target.

  In the portable terminal device 100, a sample to be inspected is collected (step S21) and inspected by the DNA chip device 10 (step S22), and a specific pathogen is confirmed (or a certain level of danger level is detected). Is checked) (step S23).

  If no specific pathogen is confirmed (“no abnormality” in step S23), safety is confirmed and the process is terminated. On the other hand, when a specific pathogen is confirmed (“abnormal” in step S23), the mobile terminal device 100 transfers data including a digital value corresponding to the detection result to the emergency security organization 300 (step S24). ).

  The server 310 collates the digital value included in the data transferred from the mobile terminal device 100 with the information registered in the database (DB) (step S25).

  If a specific pathogen is not confirmed from the collation result in the server 310 (“no abnormality” in step S25), safety is confirmed, and the process ends. On the other hand, when a specific pathogen is confirmed (“abnormal” in step S25), the emergency security organization 300 notifies the related ministries and agencies 400 (step S26).

  When the ministry and agency 400 receives notification from the server 310 that a specific pathogen has been detected, the ministry and agency 400 makes necessary communications to the news stations 500 and the research institution 600 (step S27).

  As a result, the news station 500 releases the information, and the research institution 600 examines a countermeasure method.

  As described above, according to the information communication system of the present embodiment, when confirmation that a specific pathogen has been detected through the mobile terminal device 100 and the emergency security organization 300 is obtained, the respective ministries and agencies concerned are notified. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the spread of damage caused by the detected pathogenic bacteria. In addition to the early detection of illnesses in accidents and disaster sites and individual identification of pathogens, it can be expected to be used in medical settings, and the range of use is wide.

  The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments as they are, and can be embodied by modifying the constituent elements without departing from the scope of the invention in the implementation stage. In addition, various inventions can be formed by appropriately combining a plurality of components disclosed in the embodiment. For example, some components may be deleted from all the components shown in the embodiment. Furthermore, constituent elements over different embodiments may be appropriately combined.

The perspective view which shows the external appearance of the portable terminal device 100 which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. The perspective view which shows the external appearance of the portable terminal device 100 from another direction. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the DNA chip apparatus 10 with which the chip | tip mounting part 103 of the portable terminal device 100 is mounted | worn. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a configuration of a unit cell 11 in a DNA chip device 10. FIG. The figure for demonstrating the structure and operation | movement of the DNA chip apparatus. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a first circuit configuration example of an output control unit 16 in the DNA chip device 10. The figure for demonstrating the digital value obtained from the 1st circuit structural example. The figure which shows the 2nd circuit structural example of the output control part 16 in the DNA chip apparatus 10. FIG. The figure for demonstrating the digital value obtained from the 2nd circuit structural example. The figure which shows the table information which shows the correspondence of the digital value produced | generated in the portable terminal device 100, and the test result displayed on the display part 101. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration including a DNA chip device 10 in a mobile terminal device 100 and various peripheral elements. The figure which shows an example of the determination part 50 provided with the data accumulation circuit 51 and the final determination circuit 52. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the mobile terminal device 100. The figure which shows an example of a structure of the information communication system for performing information communication when dangerous pathogen etc. are detected using the portable terminal device. The flowchart which shows an example of operation | movement of an information communication system.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 ... DNA chip apparatus, 11 ... Unit cell, 12 ... Electrode, 13 ... Detection DNA synthetic | combination part, 14 ... Hybrid DNA detection part, 15 ... Input control part, 16 ... Output control part, 17 ... Board | substrate, 18 ... Wiring layer , 20 ... selection part, 30 ... extraction part, 40 ... setting part, 50 ... determination part, 60 ... output part, 70 ... control part, 101 ... display part, 102 ... input part, 103 ... chip mounting part, 104 ... memory Card mounting part, 105 ... Battery, 106 ... AC adapter terminal, 107 ... RS-232C interface, 108 ... USB interface, 110 ... Integral circuit, 120 ... Ladder resistor group, 130 ... Comparator, 140 ... Encoder circuit, 150 ... Window comparator 160 ... Counter.

Claims (8)

An electrode for holding the DNA for detection;
An integration circuit that integrates a current flowing through the electrode when the hybridization between the detection DNA and the detection DNA occurs and converts the current into a voltage for a certain period of time, and outputs the obtained analog voltage signal;
A ladder resistor group that generates a plurality of different potentials based on a reference voltage;
A comparator that outputs a plurality of signals each indicating a comparison result between a voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit and a plurality of potentials generated from the ladder resistor group in one of two levels;
A DNA chip device comprising: an encoder circuit that outputs digital signals uniquely determined by the levels of a plurality of signals output from the comparator. The DNA chip device according to claim 1,
The DNA chip device, wherein the encoder circuit outputs the digital signal at regular intervals in synchronization with a clock signal. An electrode for holding the DNA for detection;
An integration circuit that integrates a current flowing through the electrode when the hybridization between the detection DNA and the detection DNA occurs and converts the current into a voltage for a certain period of time, and outputs the obtained analog voltage signal;
A window comparator that outputs a digital voltage signal at a constant level while the voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integrating circuit is within a range between two threshold values;
A DNA chip device comprising: a counter that measures a time during which the digital voltage signal is output from the window comparator and outputs a digital signal uniquely determined by the measurement time. The DNA chip device according to claim 3,
The DNA chip device, wherein the counter outputs the digital signal at regular intervals in synchronization with a predetermined clock signal. An analog voltage signal obtained by integrating an electrode for holding the detection DNA and a current flowing through the electrode when the hybridization between the detection DNA and the DNA to be detected occurs and integrating the current for a certain period of time. An integrator circuit that outputs a plurality of different potentials based on a reference voltage, a voltage value of an analog voltage signal output from the integrator circuit, and a plurality of potentials generated from the ladder resistor group A comparator that outputs a plurality of signals each indicating a comparison result with one of two levels, and an encoder circuit that outputs a digital signal uniquely determined by the levels of the plurality of signals output from the comparator A DNA chip device;
Determining means for determining information associated with a value of a digital signal output from the DNA chip device;
And an output unit that displays and outputs the information determined by the determination unit. An analog voltage signal obtained by integrating an electrode for holding the detection DNA and a current flowing through the electrode when the hybridization between the detection DNA and the DNA to be detected occurs and integrating the current for a certain period of time. An output circuit that outputs a digital voltage signal at a constant level while the voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit is in a range between two threshold values; A DNA chip device comprising: a counter that measures a time during which the digital voltage signal is output from the window comparator and outputs a digital signal uniquely determined by the measurement time;
Determining means for determining information associated with a value of a digital signal output from the DNA chip device;
And an output unit that displays and outputs the information determined by the determination unit. An analog voltage signal obtained by integrating an electrode for holding the detection DNA and a current flowing through the electrode when the hybridization between the detection DNA and the DNA to be detected occurs and integrating the current for a certain period of time. An integrator circuit that outputs a plurality of different potentials based on a reference voltage, a voltage value of an analog voltage signal output from the integrator circuit, and a plurality of potentials generated from the ladder resistor group A comparator that outputs a plurality of signals each indicating a comparison result with one of two levels, and an encoder circuit that outputs a digital signal uniquely determined by the levels of the plurality of signals output from the comparator Determine the DNA chip device and the information associated with the value of the digital signal output from the DNA chip device A portable terminal device for transmitting the information if that and means, determined information indicates the risk of more than a certain,
A server device that receives the information transmitted from the mobile terminal device, collates the information with a database, and contacts the device provided in a predetermined organization when the information matches. Information communication system. An analog voltage signal obtained by integrating an electrode for holding the detection DNA and a current flowing through the electrode when the hybridization between the detection DNA and the DNA to be detected occurs and integrating the current for a certain period of time. An output circuit that outputs a digital voltage signal at a constant level while the voltage value of the analog voltage signal output from the integration circuit is in a range between two threshold values; A DNA chip device comprising a counter for measuring a time at which the digital voltage signal is output from the window comparator and outputting a digital signal uniquely determined by the measurement time; and a digital signal output from the DNA chip device. Means for determining information associated with the value, and the determined information indicates a certain level of danger. A portable terminal device for transmitting the information when it is broadcast,
A server device that receives the information transmitted from the mobile terminal device, collates the information with a database, and contacts the device provided in a predetermined organization when the information matches. Information communication system.

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