Kevin Aliado

Title: Kevin Aliado: Innovator in Nanopore-Based Sequencing Technology

Introduction

Kevin Aliado is a prominent inventor based in Sunnyvale, California, known for his significant contributions to the field of nanopore-based sequencing technology. With a total of nine patents to his name, Aliado has developed innovative methods that enhance the detection and formation of lipid bilayers, which are crucial for various biological applications.

Latest Patents

Among his latest patents, one notable invention is the method for non-destructive bilayer monitoring using the measurement of bilayer response to electrical stimulus. This method involves detecting a lipid bilayer formed in a cell of a nanopore-based sequencing chip. An integrating capacitor is coupled with a lipid membrane, which is positioned between a working electrode and a counter electrode. By applying an alternating current (AC) voltage to the counter electrode, the voltage across the integrating capacitor is periodically sampled by an analog-to-digital converter (ADC). The change in the sampled voltage in response to the AC voltage is analyzed to determine whether the lipid membrane comprises a lipid bilayer.

Another significant patent is the electrical enhancement of bilayer formation. This method describes the formation of multiple lipid bilayers over an array of cells in a nanopore-based sequencing chip. A salt buffer solution is flowed over the array to fill the wells in the cells, followed by a lipid and solvent mixture to deposit the lipid over some of the wells. The process includes detecting cells with lipid bilayers and applying an electrical lipid-thinning stimulus selectively to those without a lipid bilayer.

Career Highlights

Kevin Aliado has worked with notable companies in the biotechnology sector, including Roche Sequencing Solutions, Inc. and Roche Molecular Systems, Inc. His work in these organizations has contributed to advancements in sequencing technologies and methodologies.

Collaborations

Throughout his career, Aliado has collaborated with esteemed colleagues such as Ashraf M. Wahba and William D. Nielsen, further enhancing the impact of his innovations in the field.

Conclusion

Kevin Aliado's work in nanopore-based sequencing technology exemplifies the intersection of innovation and practical application in biotechnology. His patents reflect a commitment to advancing scientific understanding and technological capabilities in lipid bilayer detection and formation.