CA2396464A1 - A device for analytical determinations - Google Patents
A device for analytical determinations Download PDFInfo
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- CA2396464A1 CA2396464A1 CA002396464A CA2396464A CA2396464A1 CA 2396464 A1 CA2396464 A1 CA 2396464A1 CA 002396464 A CA002396464 A CA 002396464A CA 2396464 A CA2396464 A CA 2396464A CA 2396464 A1 CA2396464 A1 CA 2396464A1
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- Prior art keywords
- reagent
- sample
- receiving portion
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- assay
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
- B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
- B01L3/502—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2200/00—Solutions for specific problems relating to chemical or physical laboratory apparatus
- B01L2200/16—Reagents, handling or storing thereof
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
- B01L2300/04—Closures and closing means
- B01L2300/041—Connecting closures to device or container
- B01L2300/045—Connecting closures to device or container whereby the whole cover is slidable
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
- B01L2300/08—Geometry, shape and general structure
- B01L2300/0803—Disc shape
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2300/00—Additional constructional details
- B01L2300/08—Geometry, shape and general structure
- B01L2300/0861—Configuration of multiple channels and/or chambers in a single devices
- B01L2300/087—Multiple sequential chambers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L2400/00—Moving or stopping fluids
- B01L2400/06—Valves, specific forms thereof
- B01L2400/0633—Valves, specific forms thereof with moving parts
- B01L2400/0644—Valves, specific forms thereof with moving parts rotary valves
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B01—PHYSICAL OR CHEMICAL PROCESSES OR APPARATUS IN GENERAL
- B01L—CHEMICAL OR PHYSICAL LABORATORY APPARATUS FOR GENERAL USE
- B01L3/00—Containers or dishes for laboratory use, e.g. laboratory glassware; Droppers
- B01L3/50—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes
- B01L3/502—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures
- B01L3/5029—Containers for the purpose of retaining a material to be analysed, e.g. test tubes with fluid transport, e.g. in multi-compartment structures using swabs
Landscapes
- Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Analytical Chemistry (AREA)
- General Health & Medical Sciences (AREA)
- Hematology (AREA)
- Clinical Laboratory Science (AREA)
- Chemical Kinetics & Catalysis (AREA)
- Investigating Or Analysing Biological Materials (AREA)
- Automatic Analysis And Handling Materials Therefor (AREA)
- Devices For Use In Laboratory Experiments (AREA)
Abstract
There is described a device for carrying out analytical determinations such as, for example, immunoassays. The device comprises an assay cassette which includes a series of discrete reagent chambers which contain, successively, the reagents required to perform an analytical determination. A sample loade d into the assay cassette may be brought into alignment with successive reagen t chambers by rotation of the reagent chambers relative to the sample.
Description
.. 1 -A DEYICR F'OR ~ILLYT=CU. DETEI~I~iATI0111S
Meld of~the invention The present invention relates to a device for carrying out analytical determinations and. in particular, to a device for carrying out a specific binding assay such as an immunoassay:
~3ackQ ound to the invents-on 1p There is considerable interest in the field of analytical determinations in the development of simplified assay systems which allow an unskilled user to perform complex assay procedures without undue error. Moreover, there is a great deal of interest in the development of efficient and clean assay systems which require minimal handling of liquid reagents and which can be automated to allow the assay procedure to be performed with minimal intervention from the user.
This is particularly relevant in the healthcare field where there is an increasing need for assay systems.
especially diagnostics. which can be efficiently and safely operated within the doctor's office, the clinic, the veterinary surgezy or even in the patient's home or in the field.
One approach to this problem is provided in EP-H-0,320,24~, which describes a device for use in analytical determinations which rec,~uires minimal handling of liguid reagents. This device consists of two components: a self-contained assay cassette comprising a series of discrete reagent~chambers, separated from one another by means of separation means, which successively contain all the reagents and wash solutions reguired to carry out an assay __ procedure and a sample transport body which is adapted for location in the assay cassette. The sample to be tested is Loaded on to the sample transport body which is then inserted into the assay cassette. To complete AMENDED SHEET
Fmofan,~s~e n m rev. m .uu - Z -the assay procedure the sample transport body is pushed further into the assay cassette, rupturing the separation means between the reagent chambers as it moves through the cassette, in order to expose the sample to the aSSay reagents in the successive reagent chambers. Several tests, such as a sample and a corresponding control can be made at the same time by means of a special designed sample transport body.
Although allowing for several test to be carried out at the same time, no reliable test results is obtained since the analysing of the sample and the control is carried out separately in each there reaction serie using each their distinct metered reagent.
Whilst the device of EP-B-0,320,290 provide$ for minimal handling of liquid reagents the design is not particularly suited to automation of the assay procedure, largely because the ov~rall dimensions of the device change during operation as the sample transport body is inserted into the assay cassette.
Thus there remains a need for a device which combines the advantages of minimal handling of licauid reagents with capacity for automation of the assay procedure.
From US 4.859,603 is known a h~snd held diagnostic kit for performing analytical tests. This known device is designed for testing one single sample pr, device and does not provide.a possibility of including a control specimen. For carrying out an assay a test specimen is applied to the specimen support element on a disc, which is placed below a series of receptacles containing different reagents to be used'~in the assay.
The receptacles each has a nipple which is cut off by cutting means during rotation of a housing member.
TnThen the nipple is cut off the content of the receptacle is flushed on to the test specimen which is a 35 flooded. A reagent is continously present in the reaction zone and Ghe introduction of the next reagent is simply done by flushing the next reagent down unto the test specimen without removing the already present AMENDED SHEET
Empfansscem m .rc~. ~~
reagent. No well-defined concentration and amount of reagent is provided for the chemical reaction and the device is riot suitable for assays such as immunoassays. .
Description of the si nvention The inventors have now'developed an improved device for use in carrying out analytical determinations Which is considerably more amenable to automation because the overall shape and dimensions of the device remain constant during the analytical procedure. This device provides an assay system which is convenient, efficient, clean and easy to operate . for the unskilled user.
According to the present invention there is provided an assay cassette for use in carrying out analytical determinations, the assay cassette .
comprising:
a sample receiving portion and a reagent holding portion which are rotatable relative to each other, the reagent holding portion having formed therein a series of discrete reagent chambers which contain, successively, the reagents required to perform the analytical determination, the reagent chambers being positioned at an eccentric location relative to the axis of rotation and the sample receiving portion defining an access port also positioned at an eccentric location relative to the same axis of rotation such that it may be brought into ~ligrunent with successive reagent chambers by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion and the sample receiving portion.
a device for use in carrying out at least one analytical determination, comprising an assay cassette and a sample loading body, wherein the assay cassette comg~rise a sample receiving portion and a reagent holding portion which are rotatable relative to each other, said reagent.holding portion having formed AMENDED SHEET
Empfans~~e,~
therein a series of successive discrete reagent chambers, separated from $ach other by means of partitions, said discrete reagent chambers contain.
successively, the reagents required to perform the analytical determination, said reagent chambers being positioned at a substantially circumferential location-. relative to the axis df rotatiom, arid said sample receiving portion comprise an access port positioned at a substantially circumferential location relative to the same axis of rotation such that said access port may be brought into alignment with the reagent chambers by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion and the sample receiving portion, and a sample loading body comprising at least one sample collection area provided v~ith at least one absorbent body for the collection of a sample to be analysed, said absorbent body project down into the reagent chambers for contacting a reagent provided in the chamber, said absorbent body being compressed as is passes the partition upon entering a successive reagent chambers in a series by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion and the sample receiving portion..
In a preferred embodiment, the assay cassette is adapted for use with a sample loading body in order to form a device for use in analytical determinations.
The assay cassette comprises a reagent holding.
portion, which may be formed from a moulable plastic material, having a series of discrete reag~ t chambers formed therein and also a sample receiv~g portion which is adapted for location of a sample loading body, The reagent chambers of the reagent holding , portion contain, successively, the reagents for carrying out the analytical procedure.
3S Advantageously, the series of separate. discrete reagent chambers may be positioned substantially along the circumference of a circle centred on the axis of AMENDED SHEET
EmpfangJLGlt 1l~i~u~ iv~vv relative rotation of the reagent holding portion relative to the sample receiving portion.
It is tv be undesstvod that the precise arrangement and contents of the reagent chambers may vary according to Ghe nature of the analytical procedure and is riot material to the invention. In the case of am~immunvassay, the reagent chambers might comprise a wash chamber; a conjugate chamber, a series of further wash chambers and a final signal detection chamber. One or more of the reagent chambers may be left empty to facilitate removal of excess liquid reagents from the sale collection area,. tr~here the sample collection area coittpris.es an absorbent body or pad of compressible material, these 'liguid removal' ChaIIi~7er5 Inay advantageously be smaller in depth than the absorbent body or pad in order to compress it and thereby,scdueeze out more liquid.
Detection/moasurement of the read-out of an analytical procedure or assay is usually carried out in the final reagent chamber in the series, ~rhich may be designated herein the signal detection chamber.
The signal detection chamber may b~ filled with a final reagent, for example a colorimetric enzyme substrate, or it may be left empty if a measurement of '25 luminescence, fluorescence, radioactivity or th~
colour intensity of a dye or particulate labels is to be made. It may also be filled with a luminescence triggering reagent such as hydrogen peroxide when a chemiluminescent label is employed in a high sensitivity assay: The signal detection,~hamber is preferably provided with at Ieast one transparent wall or window through which the result of the analytical procedure may be determined by visual inspection for a qualitative or semi-quantitative result or through which a signal indicating the result-of the procedure may be measured by means of a measuring instrument AMENDED SHEET
Emvfan~~LC, ~ "., ~~. ,~
to give a~quantitative result. In one embodiment, the entire reagent holding portion may be formed from a transparent material.
The interior surface of the reagent holding portion, meaning the surface which is interior when the assay~cassette is assembled, may comprise a layer of disruptable material, such as a thin foil. This disruptable layer functions tv seal in the contents of the reagent chambers prior to use. Accordingly, the layer may be applied across the entire interior surface Or just' oven the area comprising the reagent chambers.
It is an essential feature of the invention that the reagent holding portion of the assay cassette is rotatable relative to the sample receiving portion.
which may also be advantageously formed from a'moulded plastics material. The reagent chambers of the reagent holding. portion are positioned in an eccentric location relative to the axis of rotation of the reagent holding portion, for example in a circular strip. The sample receiving portion contain$ an access part which is also positioned in an eccentric location relative to the axis of rotation of the reagent holding portion so that i~t may be brought into alignment with successive reagent chambers by simply rotating the reagent holding portion. ' In one embodiment the assay cassette may be adapted for use with a sample loading body having a sample collection area located thereon. T ~e sample 3a collection area may advantageously~comp~rise an absorbent body or pad of nylon; poxyurethane, PVC, or polyether foam, or cellulose or other compressible material. In the case of an immunoassay, a specific binding agent such as an antibody or an antigen may be inunobilised on the sample collection -area. The specific binding agents may be dix8etly coupled to the plastic surface using established methods such as passive adsorption or covalent linking.
AMENDED SHEET
Empfans~cG~~
.. ? _ Iri an alternative embodiment, they may be bound to the absorbent body or pad by passive adsorption or covalent linking. In many cases, the sample to be tested may be pipetted or added without measurement to the sample collection area Where it is taken up by the absorbent material. Alternatively, the sample can be measured accurately by pipette. zt will be understood that the sample may be any fluid material, including body fluids such as whole blood, serum; plasma, urine, milk etc, and other fluids such as environmental samples. It will be further undersCvod that the device of the invention may be used in a wide range of analytical determinations in addition to immunoassays as described above.
Control samples or calibrators may be added to other axeas of the sample loading body. These controls may be added immediately prior to commencement of an assay, e.g. at the same time as adding the test sample, or may be added during manufacture. In a preferred configuration, the sample loading body comprises two or more distinct absorbent bodies or pads, at least one to function as a sample collection area for addition of the test sample and at least one for addition of a control sample. In a most preferred configuration, the sample loading body cemprises three absorbent bodies, one sample collection area, one for a positive control sample and one for a negative control sample.
The access port formed in the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette is preferably adapted to receive at least a portion of the sample loading body, including the sample collection area, so that the latter is correctly positioned relative to the reagent chambers when the device is in use. Preferably, the sample loading body is adapted to locate in a co-operating recess in the outer surface of the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette with the sample colledtion area being positioned within the AMENDED SHEET
EmpfanaSLGI~ W .~~~. ~~.""
access port. Advantageously, the sample loading body may be sealed into the assay cassette, for example by a snap-fit mechanism. The device is thus sealed during and at the end of the analytical procedure, preventing leakage of any liquid reagents. Brior to use, the access port may be covered by a removable covering, for example a peel-off strip or patch, which is removed immediately prior to insertion of the sample loading body.
In an alternative embodiment the sample loading body may be fixed to the top surface of the sample receiving portion on the assay Cassette. Most preferably, the sample loading body may be fixed to the assay cassette via a flexible joint ar hinge which enables the sale loading body to be moved between a first position in which the sample loading body is folded back onto the top surface of the sample receiving portion with the sample collection area facix~g upward and a second position in which the sample collection area is located in the access port.
In this configuration the sample may be pipetted onto the upward facing sample collection area when the sample loading body is held in the first position.
The sample loading body is then folded into the second position With the sample collection area located in the access port_ A Snap-fit ensures that the device is sealed.
The sample receiving portion of the assay cassette may be further provided with a per~trativn means, positioned on the interior surfacE (meaning the surface which ins inside the assembled assay Cassette) thereof adjacent to the access port. The penetration means is adapted to penetrate through the disruptable layer sealing the reagent chambers in the reagent hvlding~portioa of the assay cassettes-Preferably, the penetration means comprises a blade or knife able to cut through the disruptable layer. The penetration means may itself be mounted on a spring means ar AMENDED SHEET
Emvfan~JLG~t W t~~~ ~~
_ g _ equivalent which allows it to move relative to the interior surface of the sample receiving portion.
When an assay cassette comprising a penetrativn.means is in use, the reagent holding portion and the sample S receiving portion rotate relative to each ether such that the reagent chambers are in turn moved past the penetration means, enabling the penetration~means to penetrate through the layer of disruptable material sealing the reagent chamber and then brought into alignment with the sample Collection area of the sample loading body positioned in the access port, bringing the sample into contact with the contents of the reagent chamber.
The assay cassette may further comprise a layer of absorbent material positioned between the interior surfaces of the reagent holding portion and the sample receiving portzon.~ The layer of absorbent material comprises an opening in alignment with the access port of the sample receiving portion and may co~rise a further opening in alignment~with a penetration means forming part of the sample receiving portion, The absorbent layer functions to absorb any excess liquid reagents released from the reagent chambers when the device is in use, thereby preventing leakage and minimising the potential for carry-over of reagents between adjacent reagent chambers'. The overall fluid 'absorbing capacity of the absorbent layer should ideally exceed the total volume of liquid reagents incorporated into the device such that when the test is complete all liquid reagents remairrir~ 'in the device will be absorbed. The device can thus be disposed of in a dry format not requiring liquid containmerit facilities.
The invention also encompasses an assay cassette' which can function uiithout a separate-sample loading body. In this embodiment a sample collection area is located on the interior surface of the sample receiving portion a short distance from the access AMENDED SHEET
EmvfanBa~C~~
l port, thus the sample receiving portion also functions as the sample loading body. When the device is in use, the sample is added directly to-one of the chambers of the reagent holding portion via the access port in the sample receiving portion. Preferably a cover is then placed over the access port to seal the device, advantageously a snap-fit cover can be used.
on rotation of the sample receiving portion relative to the reagent holding portion the sample collection 1Q area is brought into contact with the sample. Then successively the other reagent chambers are brought into contact with the sample collection area. In this embodiment a penetration means may be located adjacent to the access port.
1S The radial configuration of the assay cassette provides several advantages over the previously )mown devices. In particular, the radial aonfigurat~.on permits the inclusion of many more reagent chambers whilst keeping the overall device small by locating 20 the reagent chambers on the circumference of a circle.
In addition, because the sample loading body~once in place does not move relative to the assay cassette the overall device is fixed in size before and during operation and so is more amenable to automation of the 25 assay procedure.
Since the assay cassette is entirely self contained and all xeagents are incorporated during manufacture there is no need for complex reagent addition or wa$h steps. After addition of tube sample 30 to the sample collection area the sampl~loading body is loaded into place so that the sample collection area is positioned in the access port on the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette. Thereafter, the sample loading body remains in place throughout 35 the assay procedure. In the case of an-automated assay, the entire device is then placed inside an assay instrument which~may carry out the assay procedure according to a pre-determined program.
AMENDED SHEET
Empfa~~~«, ~ ~ ~ ., ~~ . , ~ ..
_ 11 _ The assay instrument should comprise a motor drive to effect controlled rotation of the rsagent holding portion of the assay cassette relative to the sample receiving portion and may also function as a measuring instrument to measure the result or read-out of the assay procedure. A portable hand-held assay instrument containing a motor drive to effect rotation of the assay cassette but no complicated measuring instrumentation may be constructed for use in the patient's home or in the f~.eld.~ A more complex instrument incorporating measuring instrumentation would be more suitable for use in the clinic or the doctor's office. The latter instrument msy also be pre-programmed with the calibration data necessary to provide a fully quantitative result.
To facilitate correct positioning of the assay cassette relative to the motor drive of tha assay instrument the outer surface of the reagent holding portion of the assay cassette may be provided with a location means, such as a cog, positioned substantially centrally on the axis of rotation of the assay cassette. It will be readily apparent that relative rotation of the sample receiving portion and the reagent holding portion can be achieved by retaining, the sataple receiving portion in a fixed location whilst moving the reagent holding portion and by maintaining the reagent holding portion in a fixed location whilst moving the sample receiving portion.
In automated systems, the preferred config'yration is one in which the sample receiving portion is held fixed and the reagent holding portion is rotated relative to it. In this manner the sample collection ,area may be held in alignment with a measuring means, such as an optical measuring instrument.
The invention provides a clean and-efficient device which does not require handling of any liquids and can be operated by an unskilled user to provide rapid quantitative assay results. Such a device is AMENDED SHEET
Emvfang~t~~.
ideally suited to the field of diagnostics.
specifically iaanunoassay or D~1A amplification or .
hybridisation assays. It can be used in the doctor's office or the clinic to assist a physician in diagnos~.s or in monitoring the progression of, disease.
One useful example would be in the field of cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Detection/measurement of cancer-associated markers in the blood is becoming an increasingly powerful tool to assist at all stages in the treatment of cancer, including the detection of early neoplasia, the diagnosis of disease, and in monitoring disease progression or response to treatment. Using the device of the invention a physician ar nurse will be able to perform rapid and quantitative tests for the presence of cancer-.
associated markers in the clinic, the doctor's office or at the patient's bedside. Mvreover,~because the device is suitable for use by an unskilled user and does not require dispensing or measuring of liquid reagents in order to achieve a quantitative result it is also suited to use in home testing.
In a further embodiment of the invention, the assay cassette may be adapted for carrying out a plurality of~analytical determinations in parallel.
This can be achieved by having two or more~series of discrete reagent chambers in the reagent holding portion, each series of chambers containing successively the reagents required for one analytical detetsnination, and a corresponding number,of-access 30~ ports in the sample receiving portion: C~mveniently, the two or more series of reagent chambers may be positioned substantially along the circumferences of a series of concentric circles centred on the axis of rotation of the reagent holding portion relative to ~J -35 the sample receiving portion. A sample-loading body for use with such an assay cassette may comprise two or more sample collection areas adapted to locate within the two or more access ports when the device is AMENDED SHEET
Empfa~~sL~,~
in use: Alternatively, two or mare sample loading bodies may be used, each one adapted to locate in a specific position on the sample receiving portion. The .
feature of multiple access ports may also be included in the embodiment of the assay cassette device adapted to function without a separate sample loading body in order to carry out more than orle assay simul.tanevusly.
The present invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:
Figure 2A is a plan view of the sample loading body for use in the device of the invention, Fig 1H is an underside plan view of the sart~le loading body, Figure 2 is a plan view of the assay cassette of the 2p invention, Figure 3 is a plea view of the device of the invention illustrating haw the sample loading body is loaded into the assay cassette, ' Figure 4 is an underside plan view of the assay cassette, Figure 5 is an expanded view of the assay cassette, Figures 6a and 6b are cross-sectional views of an analytical device of the invention in operation, _ Figure 7 is a plan view of an assay cassette according to the invention in which the sample 3oading body is attached to the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette.
AMENDED SHEET
Empfang~Lr~~
Figure B i~s an expanded view of a device according to the invention which. does not require a separate sample .loading body. ~
Referring to the nrawings, Figures 1A and 1H
illustrate the sample loading body 1 which is a plastics member having at least one~sa~le collection area. In this embodiment, the sample loading'body has three pads of absorbent material 2 bonded thereto: At least one of these pads functions as the sample collection area for addition of the test sample.
Positive or negative control samples may be added to the remaining pads. The arrangement of the pads shown in Figure 1B is intended to be merely~illustrative and alternative configurations may be used. For example.
three or more pads may be arranged radially.
Figures 2-3 illustrate schematically the assay cassette of the invention. In the preferred configuration, the assay cassette is disc-shaped and formed from a suitable mouldable plastics material.
Figure 2 is a plan view illustrating the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette 3. The sample receiving portion is provided with access port 4 and may be further provided With s recess 5 shaped to co-operate with a sample loading body: Figure 3 illustrates schematically how the sample loading body 1 may be located i.n the recess formed on the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette such that the sample collection area 2 is positioned in the access port 4.
f Figure 4 is an underside plan view of the assay cassette illustrating the reagent holdir~g portion 6.
The reagent holding portion has a series of reagent chambers 7-1$ formed therein. The embodiment --- 35 -illustrated in Figure 4 has a total of_12 reagent chambers but it is to be understood that devices can be constructed with varying numbers of reagent chambers, as reuuired. Chamber 18 is the sigrnal AMENDED SHEET
Emufangstcm ii~icu~ iu~vv detection chamber. A location means 19 is provided on the outer surface of the reagent holding portion to facilitate location~of the assay cassette in an assay instrument. In this embodiment, the location means comprises a cog which is adapted to co-operate with a motor drive provided by the assay instrument.
Figure 5 is an expanded view illustrating schematically the construction of the assay cassette comprising a sample receiving portion 3 and a reagent holding portion 6. The reagent holding portion is coupled to the sample receiving portion so as to be rotatable relative to th~ sample receiving portion about a common axis of rotation. Tn the embodiment shown in Figure 5 this is be achieved is by extending the edge of the sample receiving portion to form a lip 20, making the outer circumference of the reagent holding portion slightly smaller than the inner circumference of the lip of the sample receiving portion such that the reagent holding portion fits and is able to rotate Within the sample receiving portion.
The assay cassette is further provided with a layer of disruptable material 21 such as a thin foil which, when the assay cassette is assembl8d, is bonded to the upper surface of the reagent holding portion in order to seal the~reagent chambers. A layer of absorbent material 22 is provided between the disruptable layer and the sample receiving portion. The absorbent layer contains a first opening 23 which is.aligned in .
registration with the access port formed in the sample receiving portion and a second opening ~W which is aligned in registration with a penetration means attached to the underside of the sample receiving portion !not Shawn) so that the penetration means is __ 'able to contact the layer of disruptable material when the assay cassette is assembled. --Figures 6A and 6B illustrate stages in the operation of an analytical device of the invention, AMENDED SHEET
EmPf3flgSce~ t i i ~rGU~ m~vu ~6 -The sample loading body 1 is positioned within a co-operating recess on the sample receiving portion, positioning the absorbent material forming the sample collection area 2 within the access port. Figure 6a shows a cross section of the device in a first position with the access port in alignment with one of the reagent chambers 13. The absorbent material projects through the sample holding body and through the absorbent layer 22 in order to contact the contents of the reagent chamber. The disruptable layer 21 sealing reagent chember 13 has previously been cut by the action of the penetration means Z5 which is positioned adjacent to the access port and attached to the interior surface of the $ampie receiving portion. The penetration means is shown in the process of cutting the disruptable layer sealing reagent chamber 14, reagent chamber 15 reins sealed.
As shown in Figure 6A, the reagent chsmbexs are entirely separate from oae another. The direction of movement of the reagent chambers relative to the absorbent body 2 and the penetration~means 25 is indicated.
Figure 6H shows a cross section of the device in a second position, the reagent holding~portion having been rotated relative to the sample receiving portion in the direction indicated. The absorbent body 2 is now positioned between reagent chambers 14 and 15, .
illustrating how the absorbent body rnay~be compressed between the surface of the reagent holding~ortion and the sample loading body as it moves betws<en reagent chambers. This compression assists the removal of eXCe55 liquid from the absorbent body. Reagent chamber 15 is shallower than reagent chambers 13,14, 16 and 17 and does not contain liquid reagents. The absorbent body will be compressed as it moves through chamber 15 facilitating the removal of further excess liquid reagents. The penetration means is positioned between~reagent chambers 15 and 16 which is still AMENDED SHEET
Empfan8~~~ ~ , " .~ ~~ , ~ ..
sealed by an intact disruptable layer 21. Figures 6A
arid &H illustrate how the penetration means is able to move relative to the interior surface of the sample loading portion. In Figure 6A the penetration means is shown in an extended position within a reagent chamber, whilst i..n Figure 68 it is shown in a retracted position as it is moved between reagent -chambers.
Figure 7 illustrates an assay cassette wherein the sample loading body is attached to/formed integrally raith the sample receiving portion and is movable about a flexible or hinged joint 26.
Figure 8 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention which is an assay cassette which does not ~ require a separate sample loading body. The sample collection area 2 is located on the inner surface of the sample receiving portion close to the access port 4. Alternative arrangements of the sample colinction area are possible, for example in may be formed in a cireumferential ring around the access port. Opening 23 in the absorbent layer is elongated in order to align with the access port and accommodate the sample collection area. In use, the sample to be~tested is loaded into the first chamber of the reagent holding 25' portion of the device through the access port 4. The access port is then sealed by closure 27. The pads forming the sample collection area project down. into the chambers of the reagent holding portion and thus come into contact with the sample added to~he first chamber and then successively with the reFagents required to complete an assay.
The construction and operation of the device of the invention will be further understood with reference to the following experimental examples, together with the accompanying Figures-in which:
Figure 9 shows the results of an assay for buman,IgA
using the device of the invention,,as described in AMENDED SHEET
Empfang~~em m .rG~. ,~.
Example 4. The concentration (nglml) of the igA
solution added to the foam pads on the sample loading body~is shown on the x-axis and colour density of the foam pads on completion of the assay on the y-axis, Figure 10 illustrates the effect of wash number on signal-to-noise ratio in an IgA assay using the device of the invention, as described in Examples 4 and 5.
Number of washes is shown on~the x-axis and colour density of the foam pads on the y-axis.
Figures 11 and 12 show standard curves for. the detection of c-erb82 using the device of the , invention, as described in Example 7. The concentration (HI~TUIml) of the c-erbBZ solution-added to the foam pads of the sample loading body is shown on the x-axis and the colour density of the foam pads .
on completion of the assay on the y-axis.
Meld of~the invention The present invention relates to a device for carrying out analytical determinations and. in particular, to a device for carrying out a specific binding assay such as an immunoassay:
~3ackQ ound to the invents-on 1p There is considerable interest in the field of analytical determinations in the development of simplified assay systems which allow an unskilled user to perform complex assay procedures without undue error. Moreover, there is a great deal of interest in the development of efficient and clean assay systems which require minimal handling of liquid reagents and which can be automated to allow the assay procedure to be performed with minimal intervention from the user.
This is particularly relevant in the healthcare field where there is an increasing need for assay systems.
especially diagnostics. which can be efficiently and safely operated within the doctor's office, the clinic, the veterinary surgezy or even in the patient's home or in the field.
One approach to this problem is provided in EP-H-0,320,24~, which describes a device for use in analytical determinations which rec,~uires minimal handling of liguid reagents. This device consists of two components: a self-contained assay cassette comprising a series of discrete reagent~chambers, separated from one another by means of separation means, which successively contain all the reagents and wash solutions reguired to carry out an assay __ procedure and a sample transport body which is adapted for location in the assay cassette. The sample to be tested is Loaded on to the sample transport body which is then inserted into the assay cassette. To complete AMENDED SHEET
Fmofan,~s~e n m rev. m .uu - Z -the assay procedure the sample transport body is pushed further into the assay cassette, rupturing the separation means between the reagent chambers as it moves through the cassette, in order to expose the sample to the aSSay reagents in the successive reagent chambers. Several tests, such as a sample and a corresponding control can be made at the same time by means of a special designed sample transport body.
Although allowing for several test to be carried out at the same time, no reliable test results is obtained since the analysing of the sample and the control is carried out separately in each there reaction serie using each their distinct metered reagent.
Whilst the device of EP-B-0,320,290 provide$ for minimal handling of liquid reagents the design is not particularly suited to automation of the assay procedure, largely because the ov~rall dimensions of the device change during operation as the sample transport body is inserted into the assay cassette.
Thus there remains a need for a device which combines the advantages of minimal handling of licauid reagents with capacity for automation of the assay procedure.
From US 4.859,603 is known a h~snd held diagnostic kit for performing analytical tests. This known device is designed for testing one single sample pr, device and does not provide.a possibility of including a control specimen. For carrying out an assay a test specimen is applied to the specimen support element on a disc, which is placed below a series of receptacles containing different reagents to be used'~in the assay.
The receptacles each has a nipple which is cut off by cutting means during rotation of a housing member.
TnThen the nipple is cut off the content of the receptacle is flushed on to the test specimen which is a 35 flooded. A reagent is continously present in the reaction zone and Ghe introduction of the next reagent is simply done by flushing the next reagent down unto the test specimen without removing the already present AMENDED SHEET
Empfansscem m .rc~. ~~
reagent. No well-defined concentration and amount of reagent is provided for the chemical reaction and the device is riot suitable for assays such as immunoassays. .
Description of the si nvention The inventors have now'developed an improved device for use in carrying out analytical determinations Which is considerably more amenable to automation because the overall shape and dimensions of the device remain constant during the analytical procedure. This device provides an assay system which is convenient, efficient, clean and easy to operate . for the unskilled user.
According to the present invention there is provided an assay cassette for use in carrying out analytical determinations, the assay cassette .
comprising:
a sample receiving portion and a reagent holding portion which are rotatable relative to each other, the reagent holding portion having formed therein a series of discrete reagent chambers which contain, successively, the reagents required to perform the analytical determination, the reagent chambers being positioned at an eccentric location relative to the axis of rotation and the sample receiving portion defining an access port also positioned at an eccentric location relative to the same axis of rotation such that it may be brought into ~ligrunent with successive reagent chambers by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion and the sample receiving portion.
a device for use in carrying out at least one analytical determination, comprising an assay cassette and a sample loading body, wherein the assay cassette comg~rise a sample receiving portion and a reagent holding portion which are rotatable relative to each other, said reagent.holding portion having formed AMENDED SHEET
Empfans~~e,~
therein a series of successive discrete reagent chambers, separated from $ach other by means of partitions, said discrete reagent chambers contain.
successively, the reagents required to perform the analytical determination, said reagent chambers being positioned at a substantially circumferential location-. relative to the axis df rotatiom, arid said sample receiving portion comprise an access port positioned at a substantially circumferential location relative to the same axis of rotation such that said access port may be brought into alignment with the reagent chambers by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion and the sample receiving portion, and a sample loading body comprising at least one sample collection area provided v~ith at least one absorbent body for the collection of a sample to be analysed, said absorbent body project down into the reagent chambers for contacting a reagent provided in the chamber, said absorbent body being compressed as is passes the partition upon entering a successive reagent chambers in a series by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion and the sample receiving portion..
In a preferred embodiment, the assay cassette is adapted for use with a sample loading body in order to form a device for use in analytical determinations.
The assay cassette comprises a reagent holding.
portion, which may be formed from a moulable plastic material, having a series of discrete reag~ t chambers formed therein and also a sample receiv~g portion which is adapted for location of a sample loading body, The reagent chambers of the reagent holding , portion contain, successively, the reagents for carrying out the analytical procedure.
3S Advantageously, the series of separate. discrete reagent chambers may be positioned substantially along the circumference of a circle centred on the axis of AMENDED SHEET
EmpfangJLGlt 1l~i~u~ iv~vv relative rotation of the reagent holding portion relative to the sample receiving portion.
It is tv be undesstvod that the precise arrangement and contents of the reagent chambers may vary according to Ghe nature of the analytical procedure and is riot material to the invention. In the case of am~immunvassay, the reagent chambers might comprise a wash chamber; a conjugate chamber, a series of further wash chambers and a final signal detection chamber. One or more of the reagent chambers may be left empty to facilitate removal of excess liquid reagents from the sale collection area,. tr~here the sample collection area coittpris.es an absorbent body or pad of compressible material, these 'liguid removal' ChaIIi~7er5 Inay advantageously be smaller in depth than the absorbent body or pad in order to compress it and thereby,scdueeze out more liquid.
Detection/moasurement of the read-out of an analytical procedure or assay is usually carried out in the final reagent chamber in the series, ~rhich may be designated herein the signal detection chamber.
The signal detection chamber may b~ filled with a final reagent, for example a colorimetric enzyme substrate, or it may be left empty if a measurement of '25 luminescence, fluorescence, radioactivity or th~
colour intensity of a dye or particulate labels is to be made. It may also be filled with a luminescence triggering reagent such as hydrogen peroxide when a chemiluminescent label is employed in a high sensitivity assay: The signal detection,~hamber is preferably provided with at Ieast one transparent wall or window through which the result of the analytical procedure may be determined by visual inspection for a qualitative or semi-quantitative result or through which a signal indicating the result-of the procedure may be measured by means of a measuring instrument AMENDED SHEET
Emvfan~~LC, ~ "., ~~. ,~
to give a~quantitative result. In one embodiment, the entire reagent holding portion may be formed from a transparent material.
The interior surface of the reagent holding portion, meaning the surface which is interior when the assay~cassette is assembled, may comprise a layer of disruptable material, such as a thin foil. This disruptable layer functions tv seal in the contents of the reagent chambers prior to use. Accordingly, the layer may be applied across the entire interior surface Or just' oven the area comprising the reagent chambers.
It is an essential feature of the invention that the reagent holding portion of the assay cassette is rotatable relative to the sample receiving portion.
which may also be advantageously formed from a'moulded plastics material. The reagent chambers of the reagent holding. portion are positioned in an eccentric location relative to the axis of rotation of the reagent holding portion, for example in a circular strip. The sample receiving portion contain$ an access part which is also positioned in an eccentric location relative to the axis of rotation of the reagent holding portion so that i~t may be brought into alignment with successive reagent chambers by simply rotating the reagent holding portion. ' In one embodiment the assay cassette may be adapted for use with a sample loading body having a sample collection area located thereon. T ~e sample 3a collection area may advantageously~comp~rise an absorbent body or pad of nylon; poxyurethane, PVC, or polyether foam, or cellulose or other compressible material. In the case of an immunoassay, a specific binding agent such as an antibody or an antigen may be inunobilised on the sample collection -area. The specific binding agents may be dix8etly coupled to the plastic surface using established methods such as passive adsorption or covalent linking.
AMENDED SHEET
Empfans~cG~~
.. ? _ Iri an alternative embodiment, they may be bound to the absorbent body or pad by passive adsorption or covalent linking. In many cases, the sample to be tested may be pipetted or added without measurement to the sample collection area Where it is taken up by the absorbent material. Alternatively, the sample can be measured accurately by pipette. zt will be understood that the sample may be any fluid material, including body fluids such as whole blood, serum; plasma, urine, milk etc, and other fluids such as environmental samples. It will be further undersCvod that the device of the invention may be used in a wide range of analytical determinations in addition to immunoassays as described above.
Control samples or calibrators may be added to other axeas of the sample loading body. These controls may be added immediately prior to commencement of an assay, e.g. at the same time as adding the test sample, or may be added during manufacture. In a preferred configuration, the sample loading body comprises two or more distinct absorbent bodies or pads, at least one to function as a sample collection area for addition of the test sample and at least one for addition of a control sample. In a most preferred configuration, the sample loading body cemprises three absorbent bodies, one sample collection area, one for a positive control sample and one for a negative control sample.
The access port formed in the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette is preferably adapted to receive at least a portion of the sample loading body, including the sample collection area, so that the latter is correctly positioned relative to the reagent chambers when the device is in use. Preferably, the sample loading body is adapted to locate in a co-operating recess in the outer surface of the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette with the sample colledtion area being positioned within the AMENDED SHEET
EmpfanaSLGI~ W .~~~. ~~.""
access port. Advantageously, the sample loading body may be sealed into the assay cassette, for example by a snap-fit mechanism. The device is thus sealed during and at the end of the analytical procedure, preventing leakage of any liquid reagents. Brior to use, the access port may be covered by a removable covering, for example a peel-off strip or patch, which is removed immediately prior to insertion of the sample loading body.
In an alternative embodiment the sample loading body may be fixed to the top surface of the sample receiving portion on the assay Cassette. Most preferably, the sample loading body may be fixed to the assay cassette via a flexible joint ar hinge which enables the sale loading body to be moved between a first position in which the sample loading body is folded back onto the top surface of the sample receiving portion with the sample collection area facix~g upward and a second position in which the sample collection area is located in the access port.
In this configuration the sample may be pipetted onto the upward facing sample collection area when the sample loading body is held in the first position.
The sample loading body is then folded into the second position With the sample collection area located in the access port_ A Snap-fit ensures that the device is sealed.
The sample receiving portion of the assay cassette may be further provided with a per~trativn means, positioned on the interior surfacE (meaning the surface which ins inside the assembled assay Cassette) thereof adjacent to the access port. The penetration means is adapted to penetrate through the disruptable layer sealing the reagent chambers in the reagent hvlding~portioa of the assay cassettes-Preferably, the penetration means comprises a blade or knife able to cut through the disruptable layer. The penetration means may itself be mounted on a spring means ar AMENDED SHEET
Emvfan~JLG~t W t~~~ ~~
_ g _ equivalent which allows it to move relative to the interior surface of the sample receiving portion.
When an assay cassette comprising a penetrativn.means is in use, the reagent holding portion and the sample S receiving portion rotate relative to each ether such that the reagent chambers are in turn moved past the penetration means, enabling the penetration~means to penetrate through the layer of disruptable material sealing the reagent chamber and then brought into alignment with the sample Collection area of the sample loading body positioned in the access port, bringing the sample into contact with the contents of the reagent chamber.
The assay cassette may further comprise a layer of absorbent material positioned between the interior surfaces of the reagent holding portion and the sample receiving portzon.~ The layer of absorbent material comprises an opening in alignment with the access port of the sample receiving portion and may co~rise a further opening in alignment~with a penetration means forming part of the sample receiving portion, The absorbent layer functions to absorb any excess liquid reagents released from the reagent chambers when the device is in use, thereby preventing leakage and minimising the potential for carry-over of reagents between adjacent reagent chambers'. The overall fluid 'absorbing capacity of the absorbent layer should ideally exceed the total volume of liquid reagents incorporated into the device such that when the test is complete all liquid reagents remairrir~ 'in the device will be absorbed. The device can thus be disposed of in a dry format not requiring liquid containmerit facilities.
The invention also encompasses an assay cassette' which can function uiithout a separate-sample loading body. In this embodiment a sample collection area is located on the interior surface of the sample receiving portion a short distance from the access AMENDED SHEET
EmvfanBa~C~~
l port, thus the sample receiving portion also functions as the sample loading body. When the device is in use, the sample is added directly to-one of the chambers of the reagent holding portion via the access port in the sample receiving portion. Preferably a cover is then placed over the access port to seal the device, advantageously a snap-fit cover can be used.
on rotation of the sample receiving portion relative to the reagent holding portion the sample collection 1Q area is brought into contact with the sample. Then successively the other reagent chambers are brought into contact with the sample collection area. In this embodiment a penetration means may be located adjacent to the access port.
1S The radial configuration of the assay cassette provides several advantages over the previously )mown devices. In particular, the radial aonfigurat~.on permits the inclusion of many more reagent chambers whilst keeping the overall device small by locating 20 the reagent chambers on the circumference of a circle.
In addition, because the sample loading body~once in place does not move relative to the assay cassette the overall device is fixed in size before and during operation and so is more amenable to automation of the 25 assay procedure.
Since the assay cassette is entirely self contained and all xeagents are incorporated during manufacture there is no need for complex reagent addition or wa$h steps. After addition of tube sample 30 to the sample collection area the sampl~loading body is loaded into place so that the sample collection area is positioned in the access port on the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette. Thereafter, the sample loading body remains in place throughout 35 the assay procedure. In the case of an-automated assay, the entire device is then placed inside an assay instrument which~may carry out the assay procedure according to a pre-determined program.
AMENDED SHEET
Empfa~~~«, ~ ~ ~ ., ~~ . , ~ ..
_ 11 _ The assay instrument should comprise a motor drive to effect controlled rotation of the rsagent holding portion of the assay cassette relative to the sample receiving portion and may also function as a measuring instrument to measure the result or read-out of the assay procedure. A portable hand-held assay instrument containing a motor drive to effect rotation of the assay cassette but no complicated measuring instrumentation may be constructed for use in the patient's home or in the f~.eld.~ A more complex instrument incorporating measuring instrumentation would be more suitable for use in the clinic or the doctor's office. The latter instrument msy also be pre-programmed with the calibration data necessary to provide a fully quantitative result.
To facilitate correct positioning of the assay cassette relative to the motor drive of tha assay instrument the outer surface of the reagent holding portion of the assay cassette may be provided with a location means, such as a cog, positioned substantially centrally on the axis of rotation of the assay cassette. It will be readily apparent that relative rotation of the sample receiving portion and the reagent holding portion can be achieved by retaining, the sataple receiving portion in a fixed location whilst moving the reagent holding portion and by maintaining the reagent holding portion in a fixed location whilst moving the sample receiving portion.
In automated systems, the preferred config'yration is one in which the sample receiving portion is held fixed and the reagent holding portion is rotated relative to it. In this manner the sample collection ,area may be held in alignment with a measuring means, such as an optical measuring instrument.
The invention provides a clean and-efficient device which does not require handling of any liquids and can be operated by an unskilled user to provide rapid quantitative assay results. Such a device is AMENDED SHEET
Emvfang~t~~.
ideally suited to the field of diagnostics.
specifically iaanunoassay or D~1A amplification or .
hybridisation assays. It can be used in the doctor's office or the clinic to assist a physician in diagnos~.s or in monitoring the progression of, disease.
One useful example would be in the field of cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Detection/measurement of cancer-associated markers in the blood is becoming an increasingly powerful tool to assist at all stages in the treatment of cancer, including the detection of early neoplasia, the diagnosis of disease, and in monitoring disease progression or response to treatment. Using the device of the invention a physician ar nurse will be able to perform rapid and quantitative tests for the presence of cancer-.
associated markers in the clinic, the doctor's office or at the patient's bedside. Mvreover,~because the device is suitable for use by an unskilled user and does not require dispensing or measuring of liquid reagents in order to achieve a quantitative result it is also suited to use in home testing.
In a further embodiment of the invention, the assay cassette may be adapted for carrying out a plurality of~analytical determinations in parallel.
This can be achieved by having two or more~series of discrete reagent chambers in the reagent holding portion, each series of chambers containing successively the reagents required for one analytical detetsnination, and a corresponding number,of-access 30~ ports in the sample receiving portion: C~mveniently, the two or more series of reagent chambers may be positioned substantially along the circumferences of a series of concentric circles centred on the axis of rotation of the reagent holding portion relative to ~J -35 the sample receiving portion. A sample-loading body for use with such an assay cassette may comprise two or more sample collection areas adapted to locate within the two or more access ports when the device is AMENDED SHEET
Empfa~~sL~,~
in use: Alternatively, two or mare sample loading bodies may be used, each one adapted to locate in a specific position on the sample receiving portion. The .
feature of multiple access ports may also be included in the embodiment of the assay cassette device adapted to function without a separate sample loading body in order to carry out more than orle assay simul.tanevusly.
The present invention will be further described with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which:
Figure 2A is a plan view of the sample loading body for use in the device of the invention, Fig 1H is an underside plan view of the sart~le loading body, Figure 2 is a plan view of the assay cassette of the 2p invention, Figure 3 is a plea view of the device of the invention illustrating haw the sample loading body is loaded into the assay cassette, ' Figure 4 is an underside plan view of the assay cassette, Figure 5 is an expanded view of the assay cassette, Figures 6a and 6b are cross-sectional views of an analytical device of the invention in operation, _ Figure 7 is a plan view of an assay cassette according to the invention in which the sample 3oading body is attached to the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette.
AMENDED SHEET
Empfang~Lr~~
Figure B i~s an expanded view of a device according to the invention which. does not require a separate sample .loading body. ~
Referring to the nrawings, Figures 1A and 1H
illustrate the sample loading body 1 which is a plastics member having at least one~sa~le collection area. In this embodiment, the sample loading'body has three pads of absorbent material 2 bonded thereto: At least one of these pads functions as the sample collection area for addition of the test sample.
Positive or negative control samples may be added to the remaining pads. The arrangement of the pads shown in Figure 1B is intended to be merely~illustrative and alternative configurations may be used. For example.
three or more pads may be arranged radially.
Figures 2-3 illustrate schematically the assay cassette of the invention. In the preferred configuration, the assay cassette is disc-shaped and formed from a suitable mouldable plastics material.
Figure 2 is a plan view illustrating the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette 3. The sample receiving portion is provided with access port 4 and may be further provided With s recess 5 shaped to co-operate with a sample loading body: Figure 3 illustrates schematically how the sample loading body 1 may be located i.n the recess formed on the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette such that the sample collection area 2 is positioned in the access port 4.
f Figure 4 is an underside plan view of the assay cassette illustrating the reagent holdir~g portion 6.
The reagent holding portion has a series of reagent chambers 7-1$ formed therein. The embodiment --- 35 -illustrated in Figure 4 has a total of_12 reagent chambers but it is to be understood that devices can be constructed with varying numbers of reagent chambers, as reuuired. Chamber 18 is the sigrnal AMENDED SHEET
Emufangstcm ii~icu~ iu~vv detection chamber. A location means 19 is provided on the outer surface of the reagent holding portion to facilitate location~of the assay cassette in an assay instrument. In this embodiment, the location means comprises a cog which is adapted to co-operate with a motor drive provided by the assay instrument.
Figure 5 is an expanded view illustrating schematically the construction of the assay cassette comprising a sample receiving portion 3 and a reagent holding portion 6. The reagent holding portion is coupled to the sample receiving portion so as to be rotatable relative to th~ sample receiving portion about a common axis of rotation. Tn the embodiment shown in Figure 5 this is be achieved is by extending the edge of the sample receiving portion to form a lip 20, making the outer circumference of the reagent holding portion slightly smaller than the inner circumference of the lip of the sample receiving portion such that the reagent holding portion fits and is able to rotate Within the sample receiving portion.
The assay cassette is further provided with a layer of disruptable material 21 such as a thin foil which, when the assay cassette is assembl8d, is bonded to the upper surface of the reagent holding portion in order to seal the~reagent chambers. A layer of absorbent material 22 is provided between the disruptable layer and the sample receiving portion. The absorbent layer contains a first opening 23 which is.aligned in .
registration with the access port formed in the sample receiving portion and a second opening ~W which is aligned in registration with a penetration means attached to the underside of the sample receiving portion !not Shawn) so that the penetration means is __ 'able to contact the layer of disruptable material when the assay cassette is assembled. --Figures 6A and 6B illustrate stages in the operation of an analytical device of the invention, AMENDED SHEET
EmPf3flgSce~ t i i ~rGU~ m~vu ~6 -The sample loading body 1 is positioned within a co-operating recess on the sample receiving portion, positioning the absorbent material forming the sample collection area 2 within the access port. Figure 6a shows a cross section of the device in a first position with the access port in alignment with one of the reagent chambers 13. The absorbent material projects through the sample holding body and through the absorbent layer 22 in order to contact the contents of the reagent chamber. The disruptable layer 21 sealing reagent chember 13 has previously been cut by the action of the penetration means Z5 which is positioned adjacent to the access port and attached to the interior surface of the $ampie receiving portion. The penetration means is shown in the process of cutting the disruptable layer sealing reagent chamber 14, reagent chamber 15 reins sealed.
As shown in Figure 6A, the reagent chsmbexs are entirely separate from oae another. The direction of movement of the reagent chambers relative to the absorbent body 2 and the penetration~means 25 is indicated.
Figure 6H shows a cross section of the device in a second position, the reagent holding~portion having been rotated relative to the sample receiving portion in the direction indicated. The absorbent body 2 is now positioned between reagent chambers 14 and 15, .
illustrating how the absorbent body rnay~be compressed between the surface of the reagent holding~ortion and the sample loading body as it moves betws<en reagent chambers. This compression assists the removal of eXCe55 liquid from the absorbent body. Reagent chamber 15 is shallower than reagent chambers 13,14, 16 and 17 and does not contain liquid reagents. The absorbent body will be compressed as it moves through chamber 15 facilitating the removal of further excess liquid reagents. The penetration means is positioned between~reagent chambers 15 and 16 which is still AMENDED SHEET
Empfan8~~~ ~ , " .~ ~~ , ~ ..
sealed by an intact disruptable layer 21. Figures 6A
arid &H illustrate how the penetration means is able to move relative to the interior surface of the sample loading portion. In Figure 6A the penetration means is shown in an extended position within a reagent chamber, whilst i..n Figure 68 it is shown in a retracted position as it is moved between reagent -chambers.
Figure 7 illustrates an assay cassette wherein the sample loading body is attached to/formed integrally raith the sample receiving portion and is movable about a flexible or hinged joint 26.
Figure 8 illustrates a further embodiment of the invention which is an assay cassette which does not ~ require a separate sample loading body. The sample collection area 2 is located on the inner surface of the sample receiving portion close to the access port 4. Alternative arrangements of the sample colinction area are possible, for example in may be formed in a cireumferential ring around the access port. Opening 23 in the absorbent layer is elongated in order to align with the access port and accommodate the sample collection area. In use, the sample to be~tested is loaded into the first chamber of the reagent holding 25' portion of the device through the access port 4. The access port is then sealed by closure 27. The pads forming the sample collection area project down. into the chambers of the reagent holding portion and thus come into contact with the sample added to~he first chamber and then successively with the reFagents required to complete an assay.
The construction and operation of the device of the invention will be further understood with reference to the following experimental examples, together with the accompanying Figures-in which:
Figure 9 shows the results of an assay for buman,IgA
using the device of the invention,,as described in AMENDED SHEET
Empfang~~em m .rG~. ,~.
Example 4. The concentration (nglml) of the igA
solution added to the foam pads on the sample loading body~is shown on the x-axis and colour density of the foam pads on completion of the assay on the y-axis, Figure 10 illustrates the effect of wash number on signal-to-noise ratio in an IgA assay using the device of the invention, as described in Examples 4 and 5.
Number of washes is shown on~the x-axis and colour density of the foam pads on the y-axis.
Figures 11 and 12 show standard curves for. the detection of c-erb82 using the device of the , invention, as described in Example 7. The concentration (HI~TUIml) of the c-erbBZ solution-added to the foam pads of the sample loading body is shown on the x-axis and the colour density of the foam pads .
on completion of the assay on the y-axis.
2 0 ~ca~lo 1 Preparatiaa of foams bonded to sample loadiaQ body Open cell PVC foam (supplied by Duflex Ltd., Derby, UK) supplied in sheets at 3mm thiclaiess was positioned over the flat sector at the end of a sample loading body and an ultrasound welding horn ;supplied by Renfrew Stylengineering Ltd, Leicester, UK) configured to weld the extremity of the foam, but leaving interior pillows', was used to~bond the foam to the material of the sample loading body'A period 3D of 30 seconds at 100 watts was used to ext~sure secure bonding between the foam and the plastic surface. This procedure created foam reaction zones on the end of the sample loading body which were securely held in place by the welding process.
~' AMENDED SHEET
EmvfanssL~~~
~sam~i~ 2 The prooedur~ for coaE4ug foams ~;tb antibody In this example the foams Were coated with an anti human IgA antibody. The foam segrments on the sample landing body were washed once in 0.01 M Tris/Cl buffer pH 7.5. The foam pieces were coated with mouse rnor~ocloxaal anti-human IgA antibody (supplied by Zymed Laboratories, Inc. USA) at 10 ug/ml in 4.01 M Tris/Cl pH '7.5 by adding 20nu1 to each foam sector. Coating proceeded for 12-16 hours at 4 C in a sealed moist chamber. Control foam segments on the sample loading body were washed once in 0.01 M Tris/Cl pH 7.5 buffer and three times in 0:01 M Tris/Gl pH 7:5 containing 0.05% (v/v) Tween 20. Both coated foams and controls were glazed in 0.01 M~Tris/C1 pH 7.5 buffer containing 0.1 % (w/v) HSA and 2 % (w/v) lactose by washing three times. The sample loading body could then be used immediately in an assay. Reagent suppliers were as follows: Triama-base, Sigma Chemical Co,/5igma-Aldrich Chemie Gmbh; NaCl, s. T. Baker 0278 or Sigma S7653:
Tween 20, Merck/KE80 lab Denmark: bovine serum albumin (HSA) Fraction V, Sigma A4503f a-Lactose, Sigma L3525i MgCl2, J. T. Baker; distilled water, Hie & Herntsen, Denmark.' .
To test the coating of the antibody on the foam sectors the entire sample loading body was~placed in SuperHlock (supplied by Pierce Chemical Co.~USA) for 2 min at room temperature (22 C). The foams ~re then .
pressed to remove excess fluid using absorbent paper.
Then 25~t1 of human IgA, at the concentrations shown in Table l, in 0.05 M Tris/C1 pH 7.5 containing 0.1 M
NaCl, 1 mM MgCl2, 1% (w/v) 8SA and 0.1 % (v/v) Tween 20 was added to all three foam sectors on the sample loading body. The foams were then incubated at room temperature (22 C1 for 5 min and blotted dry. Then 25 u1 of alkaline phosphatase conjugated rabbit AMENDED SHEET
Emufans~~rm m .~~~. .".
anti-human IgA (supplied by DAKO A/S, Denmark) diluted l: 25 in 0.05 M TrislCl buffer pH 7.5 containing 0.1 M
NaCl, 1 mM MgCl2, l% (w/v) 8SA and 0.1 (v/vy $ Tween 20 was added to each foam sector for a further incubation period of 5 min. The foams were washed three times in 0.01 M TrisJCl pH 7.5 containing 0.05%
(vJv) Tween 20 and then, after blotting, 25.1 of 8CIP/NHT substrate (supplied by Zymed Laboratories, Inc. USA) was added to each foam Sector. After incubating for 5 minutes at room temperature (22°C) the foams were washed with distilled water to stop the colour development reaction and the foams were then scanned for colour density using a DUOSCAN T1200 (supplied by AGFA, Germany? connected to a PC running the softraare program~Cream for Windows, version 1.0"
(supplied by Kem-En-Tech A/S, Denmark). The Cream software provides a quantitative measure of the colour density in the foams. The results in Table 1 shaw that the foams are coated with specific antibody, a standard curve, is obtained with increasing concentrations of IgA and the backgrounds on the uncoatod foams are low.
Table 1: Colour density signal from the AGFA
scannerJCream software.
tgl~1 coner~tsatioaAut~body- eoatea ~Controi (ao iaQ/mi) ~ foams aatibody oa foam) 800 195,2624 23;6427 400 162,9983 f 29,4803 200 149,9239 28,2855 100 106,4026 28.5222 50 79.1239 24,6085 25 63,0?86 20,6205 .35 125 43,2.786 19,0222 0 16,1427 ' 13.9188 0 16.9897 19.5684 w _ AMENDED SHEET
Empfans~~rm ale 3 Pregazatioa of th~a assay oasvette bees .
The reagent holding portion was supplied by Renfr~w Stylengineering Ltd, Leicester, UR. The component was fabricated from PVC sheet (1.5 mm thickness) using a vacuum forming process. The reagent holding portion was placed in a holder and the appropriate chambers were filled With fluid reagents according to the specific assay procedure. A sheet of aluminium foil (with one side coated With lacquer) was then cut to fit the c33ameter of the.reagent holding portion anal was placed over the component with the lacquered surface juxtaposed to the surface of the reagent holding portion. A domestic iron set to 1S ~silk" was then used to seal the foil to the surface of the reagent handling portion. The component was then examined for leaks and for signs of overheating in the reagent chambers. To complete the reagent handling portion the foil was trimmed around the edge and the foil surface covering the first chamber was removed to allow positioning~of the sample loading body.
shamble a 11a assay far bum~an IgA is the assay cassette This example describes an assay for human IgA run in the assay cassette. A manually driven rig was constructed into which the reagent holding portion, as prepared in Example 3, is seated: A sheetepf absorbent material (supplied by Renfrewf Stylengineering Ltd) was applied to the upper surface of the reagent holding portion and then the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette was clipped in place. The sample receiving portion~of the assay cassette has a knife placed in the interior surface that is adapted to pierce the foil of the reagent ' - w,..
AMENDED SHEET
FmofanRm em ii.reo. iu.u~
chambers, thus allowing the fluid to reach the foam sample collection area on the sample loading body. To run the assay the sample was added t4 the foam sample collection area on the sample loading body and, after a short incubation to allow the IgA to bind to the antibody on the foam surface; the sample loading body was clipped in place on the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette and the sample receiving portion turned manually to bring the foam sectors successively through the ruptured reagent compartments.
To run the assay on the assay cassette a sample loading body was prepay~d aeaordirrgr to the procedure in Example 2. After coating with antibody using 251 of mouse monoclonal anti human IgA the'foam sectors were washed with O.O1M Tris/Cl pH 7.5 and the entire sample loading body was placed in SuperHlock (supplied by Pierce Chemical Co.) for 2 min at room temperature (22 C) . After blotting 25.1 of human IgA at 400, 200.
100,50,25, o= 0 ng/ml in 0:05 M Tris/C1 pH 7.5 containing 0.1 M NaCl, 1 mM MgCl2, 1% (w/o) H5A and 0.1 % (v/v) Tween 20 was added to all three foam sectors on the sample loading body. The foams were then incubated at room temperature 22 C for 3 min.
The sample loading body was then clipped into place on the sample receiving portion of the.assay cassette and the foam sectors were transported through the first chamber of the reagent holding pa'rtion.
which was filled with 250 pi SuperBlock and then into the second chamber containing 250 pi alkaline phosphatase conjugated rabbit anti-human IgA (supplied by DAKO A/S, Denmark) diluted 1:'25 in 0.05 M Tris/C1 -- - buffer pH 7.5~containing 0.1 M NaCl.-l mM MgCl2, 1%
3S (w/o) H5A and 0.1 % (v/v) Tween 20. The incubation time in the second chamber was 6 min: The foams were then transported through the next seven chambers which AMENDED SHEET
Empfansszem ~,.reu. m Were filled with 250 pi wash buffer of 0.01 M Tris/Cl pH 7.5 containing b.05% (w/o) Tween 24. The final chamber (the 10th) contained 250 uI of the substrate HCIP/NBT (supplied by Zymed Laboratories, Inc. USA).
The foams were incubated for 5 min and colour development took place in th~ foam structure. Then the sample loading body was removed from the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette, the foams were washed with distilled water to step the colour development reaction and the foams were then scanned for colour density using a DU09CAN T1200 (supplied by AGFA~ Germany) connected to a PC running the software prog=am"Cream for Windows, version 1.0~ (supplied by Kem-En-Tech A/S, Denmark). The Cream software provides a quantitative measure of the colour density in the foams. The results of a typical assay are presented in Figure 9:
Exaaa~l~ 5 , =nvestfg'tiap the ~ffsct of wash aumberr is the aae~sy cassette An assay for human IgA was.carried out essentially as described in Example 4. A powered version of the rig was used where the rotation of the assay cassette was controlled by a stepper motor under the control of a timing device. The incubation period in the mouse anti-human alkaline phosphatase conjugate was 4 min 25 seconds. After the incubation in the conjugate the motor transported the samplelloading body through eight wash chambers which either contained 275 pi of wash buffer or were empty. The final (10th) chamber contained the substrate HCIP/NBT
(supplied by Zymed Laboratories, Inc. USA) and the incubation period was ~ min 25 seconds. The results in Figure 10 indicate that the optimal signal to noise ratio in the powered version of the assay cassette was AMENDED SHEET
Empfangszem n .reu. iu.~~
-'24 -achieved at seven washes.
~eam~ler 6 Coatiag foams with S~R-3 extract 5~ In this example PVC foam used for the sample collection area on the sample loading body was coated with an axrm~onium sulphate extract of SKHR-3 cells (supplied by University of Southern Denmark, Odense).
The extract contains the human protein c-erb at 320, 000 IInTt1/ml (measured by an ELISA kit supplied by Oncogene Sciences Inc) which is produced by the cells in culture. The cell extract was diluted to give varying concentrations of c-erb in 0.01 M Tris/HCl buffer pH7.5 cad 25 u1 was added to each foam piece.
The foams were,incubated at 4 C overnight. They were then Washed with the Tris/Cl wash buffer and then incubated with Superblock for ten minutes. After blotting 25 ~l of anti c-erb monoclonal antibody (Mob 15, supplied by N~omarkers Inc., USA) at 1/100 dilution in Tris/Cl buffer was added to the foam pieces and incubated for 5 minutes at 22 C. After washing three times and blotting 25 ~tl of anti-mouse IgQ alkaline phosphatase conjugate (supplied by Amdex A/S, Denmark) was added to the foams and incubated for a further five minutes. After Washing for a further three times with Tris/Ci buffer and blotting 25 ~xl~of the substrate HCIPINBT isupplied by 2ymed Laboratories. Inc. USA) Was added to the foam pieces and after 10 minutes the foams were wash~with distilled water and the colour density was read with the AGFA/Cream system. The results in Table 2 show that the c-erb in the cell extract binds to the foam pieces and can be detected by specific mouse monoclonal antibody in a quantitative_assay.
AMENDED SHEET
Emvfan~sieic n .reo. m :u~
Table 2:
~-erb /ml 8~gnaal on foaa~e 500 184,669 250 144,859 125 98,993 62.5 ~ 78,840 31. 3 69,706 15.6 53.228 0 ' 34.712 0 39, 864 Ex~a~le 7 Aa assay for a-erb ~a the assay tees~tte zn this example the foam sample collection areas on a sample loading body were coated With different concentrations of c-erb as described in Example 6 and incubated with the mouse monoclonal anti-c-erb antibody at 1/100 dilution in Tris/Cl buffer for 15 minutes. After 3 washes with Tris/C1 wash buffer the sample loading body was clipped into the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette apd the manual rig Was used to continue the assay: The first chamber contained anti mouse Iga-alkaline phosphatase conjugate at 11500 in Tris/C1 conjugate buffer mnd the incubation time was five minutes.~Then the sample loading body was rotated through seven washes using .
275 ~,1 of Tris/Cl Wash buffer, reaching th~ substrate BCIP/N8T with a final incubation period~6f 10 min before removal from the assay cassette and washing With distilled water to stop the reaction. The results from the Agfa/Cream system are presented in Figures 11 ___ and 12 and show that the assay cassette is capable of generating a standard curve for e-erb.-AMENDED SHEET
Empfanss~rm
~' AMENDED SHEET
EmvfanssL~~~
~sam~i~ 2 The prooedur~ for coaE4ug foams ~;tb antibody In this example the foams Were coated with an anti human IgA antibody. The foam segrments on the sample landing body were washed once in 0.01 M Tris/Cl buffer pH 7.5. The foam pieces were coated with mouse rnor~ocloxaal anti-human IgA antibody (supplied by Zymed Laboratories, Inc. USA) at 10 ug/ml in 4.01 M Tris/Cl pH '7.5 by adding 20nu1 to each foam sector. Coating proceeded for 12-16 hours at 4 C in a sealed moist chamber. Control foam segments on the sample loading body were washed once in 0.01 M Tris/Cl pH 7.5 buffer and three times in 0:01 M Tris/Gl pH 7:5 containing 0.05% (v/v) Tween 20. Both coated foams and controls were glazed in 0.01 M~Tris/C1 pH 7.5 buffer containing 0.1 % (w/v) HSA and 2 % (w/v) lactose by washing three times. The sample loading body could then be used immediately in an assay. Reagent suppliers were as follows: Triama-base, Sigma Chemical Co,/5igma-Aldrich Chemie Gmbh; NaCl, s. T. Baker 0278 or Sigma S7653:
Tween 20, Merck/KE80 lab Denmark: bovine serum albumin (HSA) Fraction V, Sigma A4503f a-Lactose, Sigma L3525i MgCl2, J. T. Baker; distilled water, Hie & Herntsen, Denmark.' .
To test the coating of the antibody on the foam sectors the entire sample loading body was~placed in SuperHlock (supplied by Pierce Chemical Co.~USA) for 2 min at room temperature (22 C). The foams ~re then .
pressed to remove excess fluid using absorbent paper.
Then 25~t1 of human IgA, at the concentrations shown in Table l, in 0.05 M Tris/C1 pH 7.5 containing 0.1 M
NaCl, 1 mM MgCl2, 1% (w/v) 8SA and 0.1 % (v/v) Tween 20 was added to all three foam sectors on the sample loading body. The foams were then incubated at room temperature (22 C1 for 5 min and blotted dry. Then 25 u1 of alkaline phosphatase conjugated rabbit AMENDED SHEET
Emufans~~rm m .~~~. .".
anti-human IgA (supplied by DAKO A/S, Denmark) diluted l: 25 in 0.05 M TrislCl buffer pH 7.5 containing 0.1 M
NaCl, 1 mM MgCl2, l% (w/v) 8SA and 0.1 (v/vy $ Tween 20 was added to each foam sector for a further incubation period of 5 min. The foams were washed three times in 0.01 M TrisJCl pH 7.5 containing 0.05%
(vJv) Tween 20 and then, after blotting, 25.1 of 8CIP/NHT substrate (supplied by Zymed Laboratories, Inc. USA) was added to each foam Sector. After incubating for 5 minutes at room temperature (22°C) the foams were washed with distilled water to stop the colour development reaction and the foams were then scanned for colour density using a DUOSCAN T1200 (supplied by AGFA, Germany? connected to a PC running the softraare program~Cream for Windows, version 1.0"
(supplied by Kem-En-Tech A/S, Denmark). The Cream software provides a quantitative measure of the colour density in the foams. The results in Table 1 shaw that the foams are coated with specific antibody, a standard curve, is obtained with increasing concentrations of IgA and the backgrounds on the uncoatod foams are low.
Table 1: Colour density signal from the AGFA
scannerJCream software.
tgl~1 coner~tsatioaAut~body- eoatea ~Controi (ao iaQ/mi) ~ foams aatibody oa foam) 800 195,2624 23;6427 400 162,9983 f 29,4803 200 149,9239 28,2855 100 106,4026 28.5222 50 79.1239 24,6085 25 63,0?86 20,6205 .35 125 43,2.786 19,0222 0 16,1427 ' 13.9188 0 16.9897 19.5684 w _ AMENDED SHEET
Empfans~~rm ale 3 Pregazatioa of th~a assay oasvette bees .
The reagent holding portion was supplied by Renfr~w Stylengineering Ltd, Leicester, UR. The component was fabricated from PVC sheet (1.5 mm thickness) using a vacuum forming process. The reagent holding portion was placed in a holder and the appropriate chambers were filled With fluid reagents according to the specific assay procedure. A sheet of aluminium foil (with one side coated With lacquer) was then cut to fit the c33ameter of the.reagent holding portion anal was placed over the component with the lacquered surface juxtaposed to the surface of the reagent holding portion. A domestic iron set to 1S ~silk" was then used to seal the foil to the surface of the reagent handling portion. The component was then examined for leaks and for signs of overheating in the reagent chambers. To complete the reagent handling portion the foil was trimmed around the edge and the foil surface covering the first chamber was removed to allow positioning~of the sample loading body.
shamble a 11a assay far bum~an IgA is the assay cassette This example describes an assay for human IgA run in the assay cassette. A manually driven rig was constructed into which the reagent holding portion, as prepared in Example 3, is seated: A sheetepf absorbent material (supplied by Renfrewf Stylengineering Ltd) was applied to the upper surface of the reagent holding portion and then the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette was clipped in place. The sample receiving portion~of the assay cassette has a knife placed in the interior surface that is adapted to pierce the foil of the reagent ' - w,..
AMENDED SHEET
FmofanRm em ii.reo. iu.u~
chambers, thus allowing the fluid to reach the foam sample collection area on the sample loading body. To run the assay the sample was added t4 the foam sample collection area on the sample loading body and, after a short incubation to allow the IgA to bind to the antibody on the foam surface; the sample loading body was clipped in place on the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette and the sample receiving portion turned manually to bring the foam sectors successively through the ruptured reagent compartments.
To run the assay on the assay cassette a sample loading body was prepay~d aeaordirrgr to the procedure in Example 2. After coating with antibody using 251 of mouse monoclonal anti human IgA the'foam sectors were washed with O.O1M Tris/Cl pH 7.5 and the entire sample loading body was placed in SuperHlock (supplied by Pierce Chemical Co.) for 2 min at room temperature (22 C) . After blotting 25.1 of human IgA at 400, 200.
100,50,25, o= 0 ng/ml in 0:05 M Tris/C1 pH 7.5 containing 0.1 M NaCl, 1 mM MgCl2, 1% (w/o) H5A and 0.1 % (v/v) Tween 20 was added to all three foam sectors on the sample loading body. The foams were then incubated at room temperature 22 C for 3 min.
The sample loading body was then clipped into place on the sample receiving portion of the.assay cassette and the foam sectors were transported through the first chamber of the reagent holding pa'rtion.
which was filled with 250 pi SuperBlock and then into the second chamber containing 250 pi alkaline phosphatase conjugated rabbit anti-human IgA (supplied by DAKO A/S, Denmark) diluted 1:'25 in 0.05 M Tris/C1 -- - buffer pH 7.5~containing 0.1 M NaCl.-l mM MgCl2, 1%
3S (w/o) H5A and 0.1 % (v/v) Tween 20. The incubation time in the second chamber was 6 min: The foams were then transported through the next seven chambers which AMENDED SHEET
Empfansszem ~,.reu. m Were filled with 250 pi wash buffer of 0.01 M Tris/Cl pH 7.5 containing b.05% (w/o) Tween 24. The final chamber (the 10th) contained 250 uI of the substrate HCIP/NBT (supplied by Zymed Laboratories, Inc. USA).
The foams were incubated for 5 min and colour development took place in th~ foam structure. Then the sample loading body was removed from the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette, the foams were washed with distilled water to step the colour development reaction and the foams were then scanned for colour density using a DU09CAN T1200 (supplied by AGFA~ Germany) connected to a PC running the software prog=am"Cream for Windows, version 1.0~ (supplied by Kem-En-Tech A/S, Denmark). The Cream software provides a quantitative measure of the colour density in the foams. The results of a typical assay are presented in Figure 9:
Exaaa~l~ 5 , =nvestfg'tiap the ~ffsct of wash aumberr is the aae~sy cassette An assay for human IgA was.carried out essentially as described in Example 4. A powered version of the rig was used where the rotation of the assay cassette was controlled by a stepper motor under the control of a timing device. The incubation period in the mouse anti-human alkaline phosphatase conjugate was 4 min 25 seconds. After the incubation in the conjugate the motor transported the samplelloading body through eight wash chambers which either contained 275 pi of wash buffer or were empty. The final (10th) chamber contained the substrate HCIP/NBT
(supplied by Zymed Laboratories, Inc. USA) and the incubation period was ~ min 25 seconds. The results in Figure 10 indicate that the optimal signal to noise ratio in the powered version of the assay cassette was AMENDED SHEET
Empfangszem n .reu. iu.~~
-'24 -achieved at seven washes.
~eam~ler 6 Coatiag foams with S~R-3 extract 5~ In this example PVC foam used for the sample collection area on the sample loading body was coated with an axrm~onium sulphate extract of SKHR-3 cells (supplied by University of Southern Denmark, Odense).
The extract contains the human protein c-erb at 320, 000 IInTt1/ml (measured by an ELISA kit supplied by Oncogene Sciences Inc) which is produced by the cells in culture. The cell extract was diluted to give varying concentrations of c-erb in 0.01 M Tris/HCl buffer pH7.5 cad 25 u1 was added to each foam piece.
The foams were,incubated at 4 C overnight. They were then Washed with the Tris/Cl wash buffer and then incubated with Superblock for ten minutes. After blotting 25 ~l of anti c-erb monoclonal antibody (Mob 15, supplied by N~omarkers Inc., USA) at 1/100 dilution in Tris/Cl buffer was added to the foam pieces and incubated for 5 minutes at 22 C. After washing three times and blotting 25 ~tl of anti-mouse IgQ alkaline phosphatase conjugate (supplied by Amdex A/S, Denmark) was added to the foams and incubated for a further five minutes. After Washing for a further three times with Tris/Ci buffer and blotting 25 ~xl~of the substrate HCIPINBT isupplied by 2ymed Laboratories. Inc. USA) Was added to the foam pieces and after 10 minutes the foams were wash~with distilled water and the colour density was read with the AGFA/Cream system. The results in Table 2 show that the c-erb in the cell extract binds to the foam pieces and can be detected by specific mouse monoclonal antibody in a quantitative_assay.
AMENDED SHEET
Emvfan~sieic n .reo. m :u~
Table 2:
~-erb /ml 8~gnaal on foaa~e 500 184,669 250 144,859 125 98,993 62.5 ~ 78,840 31. 3 69,706 15.6 53.228 0 ' 34.712 0 39, 864 Ex~a~le 7 Aa assay for a-erb ~a the assay tees~tte zn this example the foam sample collection areas on a sample loading body were coated With different concentrations of c-erb as described in Example 6 and incubated with the mouse monoclonal anti-c-erb antibody at 1/100 dilution in Tris/Cl buffer for 15 minutes. After 3 washes with Tris/C1 wash buffer the sample loading body was clipped into the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette apd the manual rig Was used to continue the assay: The first chamber contained anti mouse Iga-alkaline phosphatase conjugate at 11500 in Tris/C1 conjugate buffer mnd the incubation time was five minutes.~Then the sample loading body was rotated through seven washes using .
275 ~,1 of Tris/Cl Wash buffer, reaching th~ substrate BCIP/N8T with a final incubation period~6f 10 min before removal from the assay cassette and washing With distilled water to stop the reaction. The results from the Agfa/Cream system are presented in Figures 11 ___ and 12 and show that the assay cassette is capable of generating a standard curve for e-erb.-AMENDED SHEET
Empfanss~rm
Claims (19)
1. A device for use in carrying out at least one analytical determination, comprising an assay cassette and a sample loading body (1), wherein:
the assay cassette comprise a sample receiving portion (3) and a reagent holding portion (6) which are rotatable relative to each other, - said reagent holding portion (6) having formed therein a series of successive discrete reagent chambers (7-18), separated from each other by means of partitions (7a-18a), said discrete reagent chambers contain. successively, the reagents required to perform the analytical determination, said reagent chambers (7-18) being positioned at a substantially circumferential location relative to the axis of rotation, and - said sample receiving portion (3) comprise - an access part (4) positioned at a substantially circumferential location relative to the same axis of rotation such that said access part (4) may be brought into alignment with the reagent chambers (7-18) by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion (5) and the sample receiving portion (3), and - a sample loading body (1) comprising at least one sample collection area (2) provided with at least one absorbent body (2) for the collection of a sample to be analysed, said absorbent body (2) project down into the reagent chambers (7-18) far contacting a reagent provided in the chamber, said absorbent body (2) being compressed as is passes the partition (7a-18a) upon entering a successive reagent chambers (7-18) in a series by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion (6) and the sample receiving portion (3).
the assay cassette comprise a sample receiving portion (3) and a reagent holding portion (6) which are rotatable relative to each other, - said reagent holding portion (6) having formed therein a series of successive discrete reagent chambers (7-18), separated from each other by means of partitions (7a-18a), said discrete reagent chambers contain. successively, the reagents required to perform the analytical determination, said reagent chambers (7-18) being positioned at a substantially circumferential location relative to the axis of rotation, and - said sample receiving portion (3) comprise - an access part (4) positioned at a substantially circumferential location relative to the same axis of rotation such that said access part (4) may be brought into alignment with the reagent chambers (7-18) by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion (5) and the sample receiving portion (3), and - a sample loading body (1) comprising at least one sample collection area (2) provided with at least one absorbent body (2) for the collection of a sample to be analysed, said absorbent body (2) project down into the reagent chambers (7-18) far contacting a reagent provided in the chamber, said absorbent body (2) being compressed as is passes the partition (7a-18a) upon entering a successive reagent chambers (7-18) in a series by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion (6) and the sample receiving portion (3).
2. A device as claimed in claim 1 wherein the interior surface of the reagent holding portion (6) comprises a layer of disruptable material operable to seal the reagent chambers (7-18) prior to use.
3. A device as claimed in claim 2 wherein the disruptable material is a thin foil.
4. A device as claimed in claim 1 or 2 wherein the sample receiving portion (3) further comprises a penetration means (25) positioned adjacent to said access port, the penetration means (25) being adapted to penetrate through the disruptable layer sealing the reagent chambers (7-18) in the reagent holding portion (6).
5. A device as claimed in claim 3 wherein the penetration means (25) is a blade.
6. A device as claimed in claim 3 or claim 4 wherein the penetration means (25) is mounted on spring means.
7. A device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims which further comprises a layer of absorbent material (22) located between the reagent holding portion arid the sample receiving portion (3), the layer of absorbent material (22) comprising an opening (23) in alignment with the access port (4),
8. A device as claimed in claim 7, wherein the layer of absorbent material (22) further comprise a second opening (24) aligned in registration with the penetration means (25).
9. A device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein one of the reagent holding chambers (7-18) is a signal detection chamber is provided with at least one transparent wall or a window.
10. A device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the reagent holding portion (6) has one series of separate discrete reagent chambers positioned substantially along the circumference of a circle centred on the axis of rotation.
11. A device as claimed in any one of the preceding claims wherein the series of reagent chambers (7-18) contains the reagents required to carry out a particular analytical determination.
12. A device as claimed in the preceding claims wherein the absorbent body (2) is bonded to the sample loading body (2).
13. A device as claimed in the preceding claims 1-9 wherein the absorbent body is affixed to the interior surface of the sample receiving portion (3) proximal to the access port (4).
14. A device as claimed in any of the preceding claims wherein the sample leading body (1) is adapted to locate in a recess (5) formed on the outer surface of the sample receiving portion of the assay cassette such that the sample collection area (2) is positioned in the access port (4), thereby enabling the sample collection area 2 to be sequentially brought into alignment with successive reagent chambers (7-18) when the device is in use by relative rotation of the reagent holding portion (6) and the sample receiving portion (3).
15. An device as claimed in any of the preceding claims for carrying out a plurality of analytical determinations wherein - the reagent holding portion (6) having formed therein two or mere distinct series of separate discrete reagent chambers (7-18) being positioned substantially along the circumferences of a series of concentric circles centred on the axis of rotation for, - the sample receiving portion comprise two or more access ports (4) aligned in registration with respective series of reagent chambers (7-18), and - the access ports are brought into alignment with succesive reagent chambers (7-18) by relative rotation of the reagent holding protion (6).
16. A device as claimed in any of the preceedings claims wherein at least one of the at least one absorbent bodies (2) is used for a positive or a negative sample or a calibrator.
17. A device as claimed in any of the preceedings claims wherein the final reagent chamber (18) in the series is the signal detection chamber (18).
18. A device as claimed in any of the preceedings claims wherein the reagent holding portion (6) furthermore comprise location means (19), for co-operating with a motor drive of an assay instrument.
19. A device as claimed in any of the preceedings claims wherein the location means (19) is a cog (19).
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| GB9929347.4 | 1999-12-10 | ||
| GBGB9929347.4A GB9929347D0 (en) | 1999-12-10 | 1999-12-10 | A device for analytical determinations |
| PCT/GB2000/004754 WO2001041930A1 (en) | 1999-12-10 | 2000-12-11 | A device for analytical determinations |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2396464A1 true CA2396464A1 (en) | 2001-06-14 |
Family
ID=10866154
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002396464A Abandoned CA2396464A1 (en) | 1999-12-10 | 2000-12-11 | A device for analytical determinations |
Country Status (10)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP1272273A1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2003516529A (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1407915A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU5438901A (en) |
| BR (1) | BR0016287A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2396464A1 (en) |
| GB (1) | GB9929347D0 (en) |
| MX (1) | MXPA02005777A (en) |
| NO (1) | NO20022759L (en) |
| WO (1) | WO2001041930A1 (en) |
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2024176217A1 (en) * | 2023-02-21 | 2024-08-29 | Gyntools Ltd | Assay system including assay apparatus and disposable assay assemblages and method of use therefor |
Families Citing this family (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2008012550A2 (en) * | 2006-07-28 | 2008-01-31 | Diagnostics For The Real World, Ltd. | Device, system and method for processing a sample |
| WO2009024773A1 (en) | 2007-08-17 | 2009-02-26 | Diagnostics For The Real World, Ltd | Device, system and method for processing a sample |
| US8021873B2 (en) | 2008-07-16 | 2011-09-20 | Boston Microfluidics | Portable, point-of-care, user-initiated fluidic assay methods and systems |
| US20130203172A1 (en) * | 2012-02-08 | 2013-08-08 | Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. | Self-contained multi-reagent assay device |
| CN110560187B (en) | 2013-11-18 | 2022-01-11 | 尹特根埃克斯有限公司 | Cartridge and instrument for sample analysis |
| US10376888B2 (en) | 2014-07-03 | 2019-08-13 | Centrillion Technology Holdings Corporation | Device for storage and dispensing of reagents |
| WO2017004502A1 (en) | 2015-07-02 | 2017-01-05 | Centrillion Technology Holdings Corporation | Systems and methods to dispense and mix reagents |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4859603A (en) * | 1987-01-05 | 1989-08-22 | Dole Associates, Inc. | Personal diagnostic kit |
| GB8728639D0 (en) * | 1987-12-08 | 1988-01-13 | Scient Generics Ltd | Device for analytical determinations |
| US5922288A (en) * | 1997-05-29 | 1999-07-13 | Herst; C. V. Taylor | Device for isolating a component of a physiological sample |
| US5817522A (en) * | 1997-11-12 | 1998-10-06 | Goodman; David B. P. | Self-contained assay device and method |
-
1999
- 1999-12-10 GB GBGB9929347.4A patent/GB9929347D0/en not_active Ceased
-
2000
- 2000-12-11 CN CN 00816849 patent/CN1407915A/en active Pending
- 2000-12-11 BR BR0016287-6A patent/BR0016287A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 2000-12-11 CA CA002396464A patent/CA2396464A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-12-11 WO PCT/GB2000/004754 patent/WO2001041930A1/en not_active Ceased
- 2000-12-11 MX MXPA02005777A patent/MXPA02005777A/en active IP Right Grant
- 2000-12-11 AU AU54389/01A patent/AU5438901A/en not_active Abandoned
- 2000-12-11 EP EP00993309A patent/EP1272273A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 2000-12-11 JP JP2001543265A patent/JP2003516529A/en active Pending
-
2002
- 2002-06-10 NO NO20022759A patent/NO20022759L/en not_active Application Discontinuation
Cited By (1)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WO2024176217A1 (en) * | 2023-02-21 | 2024-08-29 | Gyntools Ltd | Assay system including assay apparatus and disposable assay assemblages and method of use therefor |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| NO20022759D0 (en) | 2002-06-10 |
| MXPA02005777A (en) | 2002-09-18 |
| JP2003516529A (en) | 2003-05-13 |
| AU5438901A (en) | 2001-06-18 |
| CN1407915A (en) | 2003-04-02 |
| NO20022759L (en) | 2002-06-10 |
| EP1272273A1 (en) | 2003-01-08 |
| BR0016287A (en) | 2002-12-03 |
| GB9929347D0 (en) | 2000-02-02 |
| WO2001041930A1 (en) | 2001-06-14 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |