Patents by Inventor Jeff Houkal
Jeff Houkal has filed for patents to protect the following inventions. This listing includes patent applications that are pending as well as patents that have already been granted by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
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Patent number: 11327004Abstract: Systems and methods of using the same for functional fluorescence imaging of live cells in suspension with isotropic three dimensional (3D) diffraction-limited spatial resolution are disclosed. The method-live cell computed tomography (LCCT)-involves the acquisition of a series of two dimensional (2D) pseudo-projection images from different perspectives of the cell that rotates around an axis that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system. The volumetric image of the cell is then tomographically reconstructed.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2017Date of Patent: May 10, 2022Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Roger Johnson, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Jeff Houkal, Brian Ashcroft, Dean Smith, Hong Wang, Shih-Hui Joseph Chao, Rishabh Shetty, Jakrey Myers, Iniyan Soundappa Elango
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Patent number: 11315292Abstract: Systems and methods of using the same for functional fluorescence imaging of live cells in suspension with isotropic three dimensional (3D) diffraction-limited spatial resolution are disclosed. The method-live cell computed tomography (LCCT)-in-volves the acquisition of a series of two dimensional (2D) pseudo-projection images from different perspectives of the cell that rotates around an axis that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system. The volumetric image of the cell is then tomographically reconstructed.Type: GrantFiled: March 2, 2018Date of Patent: April 26, 2022Assignee: ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITYInventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Roger Johnson, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Jeff Houkal, Brian Ashcroft, Dean Smith, Hong Wang, Shih-Hui (Joseph) Chao, Rishabh Shetty, Jakrey Myers, Iniyan Soundappa Elango
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Patent number: 11045807Abstract: An integrated technological platform enabling real-time quantitative multiparameter metabolic profiling, utilizing either or both of extra and intracellular optical sensors, individually or simultaneously. A scalable embedded micropocket array structure, generally fabricated on fused silica substrates, facilitates the integration of multiple, spatially separated extracellular sensors for multiparameter analysis in a container formed with the use of an activation mechanism forming part of a device configured to hold the container during the measurements. The creation of hermetically sealed microchambers is carried out with a pneumatically and/or mechanically and/or electromechanically driven device that is “floating” within the holding device and that is optionally equipped with a vacuum/suction mechanism to hold a component of the container at its surface.Type: GrantFiled: February 26, 2018Date of Patent: June 29, 2021Assignee: ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITYInventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Yanqing Tian, Honor Glenn, Clifford Anderson, Kristen Lee, Ganquan Song, Liqiang Zhang, Jeff Houkal, Fengyu Su, Benjamin Ueberroth, Jacob Messner, Hong Wang, Kimberly Bussey
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Patent number: 10940476Abstract: A device for high-throughput multi-parameter functional profiling of the same cells in multicellular settings and in isolation is provided. In certain aspects, an integrated microfluidic device for multi-parameter metabolic and other phenotypic profiling of live biological cells is useable with: 1) multicellular clusters or small biopsy tissue samples, 2) cultures of the constituent cells obtained after cluster/tissue dissociation, and 3) the same constituent single cells in isolation. The approach enables study of the effects of multicellular complexity, such as in response to treatment, pathogens, stress, or other factors concerning disease origination and progression. Measurements may be performed on single cells or multicellular populations or tissues in the same assay at the same time.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2017Date of Patent: March 9, 2021Assignee: ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITYInventors: Laimonas Kelbauskas, Honor Glenn, Jeff Houkal, Clifford Anderson, Yanqing Tian, Fengyu Su, Deirdre Meldrum
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Publication number: 20200406253Abstract: An integrated technological platform enabling real-time quantitative multiparameter metabolic profiling, utilizing either or both of extra and intracellular optical sensors, individually or simultaneously. A scalable embedded micropocket array structure, generally fabricated on fused silica substrates, facilitates the integration of multiple, spatially separated extracellular sensors for multiparameter analysis in a container formed with the use of an activation mechanism forming part of a device configured to hold the container during the measurements. The creation of hermetically sealed microchambers is carried out with a pneumatically and/or mechanically and/or electromechanically driven device that is “floating” within the holding device and that is optionally equipped with a vacuum/suction mechanism to hold a component of the container at its surface.Type: ApplicationFiled: February 26, 2018Publication date: December 31, 2020Inventors: Deirdre MELDRUM, Laimonas KELBAUSKAS, Yanqing TIAN, Honor GLENN, Clifford ANDERSON, Kristen LEE, Ganquan SONG, Liqiang ZHANG, Jeff HOUKAL, Fengyu SU, Benjamin UEBERROTH, Jacob MESSNER, Hong WANG, Kimberly BUSSEY
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Publication number: 20200058140Abstract: Systems and methods of using the same for functional fluorescence imaging of live cells in suspension with isotropic three dimensional (3D) diffraction-limited spatial resolution are disclosed. The method-live cell computed tomography (LCCT)-in-volves the acquisition of a series of two dimensional (2D) pseudo-projection images from different perspectives of the cell that rotates around an axis that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system. The volumetric image of the cell is then tomographically reconstructed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2018Publication date: February 20, 2020Inventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Roger Johnson, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Jeff Houkal, Brian Ashcroft, Dean Smith, Hong Wang, Shih-Hui (Joseph) Chao, Rishabh Shetty, Jakrey Myers, Iniyan Soundappa Elango
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Publication number: 20190346361Abstract: Systems and methods of using the same for functional fluorescence imaging of live cells in suspension with isotropic three dimensional (3D) diffraction-limited spatial resolution are disclosed. The method-live cell computed tomography (LCCT)-involves the acquisition of a series of two dimensional (2D) pseudo-projection images from different perspectives of the cell that rotates around an axis that is perpendicular to the optical axis of the imaging system. The volumetric image of the cell is then tomographically reconstructed.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 2, 2017Publication date: November 14, 2019Inventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Roger Johnson, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Jeff Houkal, Brian Ashcroft, Dean Smith, Hong Wang, Shih-Hui Joseph Chao, Rishabh Shetty, Jakrey Myers, Iniyan Soundappa Elango
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Patent number: 10471426Abstract: The invention relates to microfluidic devices and array disks for “one-pot” isolated chemical reactions. The array disks comprise a plurality of sectors in which each sector comprises one microfluidic device. The microfluidic devices comprise a fluid delivery channel and an array of wells wherein the fluid delivery channel delivery fluid into the wells in a serpentine arrangement. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery channel is directly above the array of wells. In other embodiments, the fluid delivery channel is offset from the array of wells so that side channels branching from the fluid delivery channel delivers fluid into the wells. The well of the microfluidic device comprises a gas-permeable membrane that forms the floor, well, or at least a portion of the floor or wall of the well. In preferred embodiments, the well is cylindrical.Type: GrantFiled: July 13, 2018Date of Patent: November 12, 2019Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventors: Rhett Martineau, Jeff Houkal, Shih-Hui Chao, Weimin Gao, Shufang Ci, Deirdre Meldrum
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Publication number: 20190126275Abstract: A device for high-throughput multi-parameter functional profiling of the same cells in multicellular settings and in isolation is provided. In certain aspects, an integrated microfluidic device for multi-parameter metabolic and other phenotypic profiling of live biological cells is useable with: 1) multicellular clusters or small biopsy tissue samples, 2) cultures of the constituent cells obtained after cluster/tissue dissociation, and 3) the same constituent single cells in isolation. The approach enables study of the effects of multicellular complexity, such as in response to treatment, pathogens, stress, or other factors concerning disease origination and progression. Measurements may be performed on single cells or multicellular populations or tissues in the same assay at the same time.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2017Publication date: May 2, 2019Inventors: Laimonas Kelbauskas, Honor Glenn, Jeff Houkal, Clifford Anderson, Yanqing Tian, Fengyu Su, Deirdre Meldrum
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Patent number: 10221443Abstract: Systems and methods for in situ laser lysis for analysis of biological tissue (live, fixed, frozen or otherwise preserved) at single cell resolution in 3D. For example, a system and method for lysing individual cells in situ, including the steps of capturing a tissue sample comprising a cellular content, subjecting the tissue sample to a stream of continuous fluid flow, lysing a selected area of the tissue sample with a laser, thereby releasing at least a portion of the cellular content from the tissue sample, recovering at least one target molecule from the cellular content in the stream, and processing at least one target molecule is provided. The system collects cellular contents, performs highly multiplexed (RT-qPCR or RNA-seq), and sequentially (cell-by-cell) reconstructs a 3D spatial map of mRNA expression of the tissue with a large number of genes. A 3D spatial map of the DNA, RNA, and/or proteins can be generated for each cell in the tissue.Type: GrantFiled: April 21, 2016Date of Patent: March 5, 2019Assignee: ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITYInventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Shih-Hui (Joseph) Chao, Thai Tran, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Jeff Houkal, Andrew Hatch, Weimin Gao, David Richardson
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Publication number: 20180318835Abstract: The invention relates to microfluidic devices and array disks for “one-pot” isolated chemical reactions. The array disks comprise a plurality of sectors in which each sector comprises one microfluidic device. The microfluidic devices comprise a fluid delivery channel and an array of wells wherein the fluid delivery channel delivery fluid into the wells in a serpentine arrangement. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery channel is directly above the array of wells. In other embodiments, the fluid delivery channel is offset from the array of wells so that side channels branching from the fluid delivery channel delivers fluid into the wells. The well of the microfluidic device comprises a gas-permeable membrane that forms the floor, well, or at least a portion of the floor or wall of the well. In preferred embodiments, the well is cylindrical.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 13, 2018Publication date: November 8, 2018Inventors: Rhett Martineau, Jeff Houkal, Shih-Hui Chao, Weimin Gao, Shufang Ci, Deirdre Meldrum
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Patent number: 10022718Abstract: The invention relates to microfluidic devices and array disks for “one-pot” isolated chemical reactions. The array disks comprise a plurality of sectors in which each sector comprises one microfluidic device. The microfluidic devices comprise a fluid delivery channel and an array of wells wherein the fluid delivery channel delivery fluid into the wells in a serpentine arrangement. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery channel is directly above the array of wells. In other embodiments, the fluid delivery channel is offset from the array of wells so that side channels branching from the fluid delivery channel delivers fluid into the wells. The well of the microfluidic device comprises a gas-permeable membrane that forms the floor, well, or at least a portion of the floor or wall of the well. In preferred embodiments, the well is cylindrical.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2015Date of Patent: July 17, 2018Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventors: Rhett Martineau, Jeff Houkal, Shih-Hui Chao, Weimin Gao, Shufang Ci, Deirdre Meldrum
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Patent number: 9597026Abstract: Novel methods and devices including modified endoscopes that employ fiber optic technology and multiple extrinsic optical sensors for enablement of simultaneous determination of change rates of biological analytes in vivo with single-cell resolution. The devices employ dynamic oscillatory actuation to determine the gradient of analytes of interest along one or multiple directions with respect to the cell. The change rate or flux of the analyte of interest can be easily determined by applying the first Fick's law that relates the flux with the concentration gradient. The dual operation mode of the device markedly increases measurement sensitivity and accuracy.Type: GrantFiled: November 11, 2014Date of Patent: March 21, 2017Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Jeff Houkal, Roger Johnson, Yanqing Tian, Cody Youngbull
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Publication number: 20160237476Abstract: Systems and methods for in situ laser lysis for analysis of biological tissue (live, fixed, frozen or otherwise preserved) at single cell resolution in 3D. For example, a system and method for lysing individual cells in situ, including the steps of capturing a tissue sample comprising a cellular content, subjecting the tissue sample to a stream of continuous fluid flow, lysing a selected area of the tissue sample with a laser, thereby releasing at least a portion of the cellular content from the tissue sample, recovering at least one target molecule from the cellular content in the stream, and processing at least one target molecule is provided. The system collects cellular contents, performs highly multiplexed (RT-qPCR or RNA-seq), and sequentially (cell-by-cell) reconstructs a 3D spatial map of mRNA expression of the tissue with a large number of genes. A 3D spatial map of the DNA, RNA, and/or proteins can be generated for each cell in the tissue.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 21, 2016Publication date: August 18, 2016Inventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Shih-Hui (Joseph) Chao, Thai Tran, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Jeff Houkal, Andrew Hatch, Weimin Gao, David Richardson
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Publication number: 20160215254Abstract: The present invention provides a system and method for lysing individual cells in situ, including the steps of capturing a tissue sample comprising a cellular content, subjecting the tissue sample to a stream of continuous fluid flow, lysing a selected area of the tissue sample with a laser, thereby releasing at least a portion of the cellular content from the tissue sample, recovering at least one target molecule from the cellular content in the stream, and processing the at least one target molecule.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 23, 2014Publication date: July 28, 2016Inventors: Deirdre MELDRUM, Shih-Hui (Joseph) CHAO, Thai TRAN, Laimonas BAUSKAS, Jeff HOUKAL, Andrew HATCH, Weimin GAO, David Wayne RICHARDSON
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Publication number: 20160114323Abstract: The invention relates to microfluidic devices and array disks for “one-pot” isolated chemical reactions. The array disks comprise a plurality of sectors in which each sector comprises one microfluidic device. The microfluidic devices comprise a fluid delivery channel and an array of wells wherein the fluid delivery channel delivery fluid into the wells in a serpentine arrangement. In some embodiments, the fluid delivery channel is directly above the array of wells. In other embodiments, the fluid delivery channel is offset from the array of wells so that side channels branching from the fluid delivery channel delivers fluid into the wells. The well of the microfluidic device comprises a gas-permeable membrane that forms the floor, well, or at least a portion of the floor or wall of the well. In preferred embodiments, the well is cylindrical.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 26, 2015Publication date: April 28, 2016Inventors: Rhett Martineau, Jeff Houkal, Shih-Hui Chao, Weimin Gao, Shufang Ci, Deirdre Meldrum
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Publication number: 20150133757Abstract: Novel methods and devices including modified endoscopes that employ fiber optic technology and multiple extrinsic optical sensors for enablement of simultaneous determination of change rates of biological analytes in vivo with single-cell resolution. The devices employ dynamic oscillatory actuation to determine the gradient of analytes of interest along one or multiple directions with respect to the cell. The change rate or flux of the analyte of interest can be easily determined by applying the first Fick's law that relates the flux with the concentration gradient. The dual operation mode of the device markedly increases measurement sensitivity and accuracy.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 11, 2014Publication date: May 14, 2015Applicant: Arizona Board of Regents on behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventors: Deirdre Meldrum, Laimonas Kelbauskas, Jeff Houkal, Roger Johnson, Yanqing Tian, Cody Youngbull
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Patent number: D732187Type: GrantFiled: February 7, 2013Date of Patent: June 16, 2015Assignee: Arizona Board of Regents, a body corporate of the State of Arizona acting for an on behalf of Arizona State UniversityInventors: Jeff Houkal, Jordan Yaron
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Patent number: D838004Type: GrantFiled: January 25, 2017Date of Patent: January 8, 2019Assignee: ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITYInventors: Jeff Houkal, Jordan Yaron
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Patent number: D841832Type: GrantFiled: February 17, 2017Date of Patent: February 26, 2019Assignee: ARIZONA BOARD OF REGENTS ON BEHALF OF ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITYInventors: Jeff Houkal, Jordan Yaron