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Industrial Research And Consultancy Centre
Patent
A Point of Care Lateral Flow Assay Device for Human Specific Semen Detection
Problem Statement

Current methods for detecting human semen in forensic and clinical settings are often cumbersome, time-consuming, and require specialized equipment, making it difficult to obtain accurate results at the point of need. Hence, there is a need of an alternate method.

Abstract

The invention is a portable test device for detecting human semen, designed for easy use at the point of need. It consists of: 

  • Sample Addition Area: Where the sample is applied. 
  • Reaction Area: Where the test result appears. 
  • Conjugate Pad: Positioned between the sample addition area and the reaction area to extend the sample’s interaction time. 
  • Polymer Barrier: Controls the flow of the sample to improve the accuracy of the test. Monoclonal Antibodies: Specific antibodies in the reaction area that detect unique proteins found in semen. 

    This device helps in accurately detecting semen, making it useful for forensic and medical applications.

Uniqueness of the Solution
  • Human-Specific Detection: Uses antibodies for sperm antigen 4E6 and SVSA to identify human semen accurately. 
  • Increased Incubation Time: Elongated conjugate pad extends incubation time with the sample. 
  • Enhanced Run Time: Polymer barrier/block made of PVA and HPMC increases sample run time. 
  • Dual Antigen Detection: Detects both sperm antigen 4E6 and SVSA. 
  • Complete Point-of-Care Solution: Offers a comprehensive kit for immediate on-site testing, minimizing delays in forensic analysis.
  • Human-Specific Detection: Uses antibodies for sperm antigen 4E6 and SVSA to identify human semen accurately. 
  • Increased Incubation Time: Elongated conjugate pad extends incubation time with the sample. 
  • Enhanced Run Time: Polymer barrier/block made of PVA and HPMC increases sample run time. 
  • Dual Antigen Detection: Detects both sperm antigen 4E6 and SVSA. 
  • Complete Point-of-Care Solution: Offers a comprehensive kit for immediate on-site testing, minimizing delays in forensic analysis.
Current Status of Technology
  • Current Status: The prototype point-of-care device effectively detects human-specific semen by targeting antigens 4E6 and SVSA. 
  • Comprehensive Kit: Includes the assay device, instructions, dilution buffer, labels, and sample handling tools.
Technology readiness level

2

Societal Impact
  • Justice for Victims: Facilitates faster and more accurate evidence collection, helping to ensure timely justice for sexual assault victims. 
  • Increased Accountability: Improves the reliability and speed of forensic investigations, leading to higher conviction rates and serving as a deterrent to potential offenders.
Relevant Industries, Domains and Applications

Healthcare, forensics, medical diagnosis, biotechnology

Applications or Domain
  • Forensic Investigations: Provides immediate on-site confirmation of sexual intercourse in rape cases. 
  • Legal Proceedings: Offers reliable evidence quickly, aiding in faster judicial decisions. 
  • Laboratory Efficiency: Enhances the forensic verification process with quick and accurate point-of-care testing.

Geography of IP

Type of IP

Application Number

202121044613

Filing Date
Grant Number

434174

Grant Date
Assignee(s)
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay